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Development of monitoring systems for aged distribution transformers with smart metering
Author(s)
Ventura, Terence Robert
Date Issued
2026
Type
master thesis
Publisher
Cape Peninsula University of Technology
Abstract
Distribution transformers play an integral role in the electricity network infrastructure, and measuring their health and performance is crucial for electricity supply stability. Advances in smart metering technology enable different stakeholders to measure the relevant properties of distribution transformers in a non-intrusive manner and with a high degree of accuracy. Although distribution transformers have developed progressively, the standard traditional oil types are still predominantly in service in most countries and have a typical life of at least 20 to 30 years when operated within their specifications. This study, therefore, has a global interest as well as a uniquely local South African relevance. South Africans have experienced firsthand how a strained electricity network with excessive demand can abruptly impact their quality of life and livelihood, with a total number of loadshedding hours of 2400 and 6947 recorded in 2022 and 2023 respectively. This research is therefore relevant and addresses an actual and relevant problem. Due to their function in the power grid and operating levels compared to power transformers, distribution transformers specifically require monitoring, as they are considered higher-risk equipment, being more prone to failure. The dissertation aimed to address the research problem by exploring existing literature available on the topic from reputable technology companies as well as research papers, to critically compare how effectively these measures addressed the ever-changing landscape of the electricity power grid. The literature review started with the wider body of knowledge available and then aimed to narrow it down to address the problem identified. Theoretical principles, case studies, and comparative analysis formed part of this review. The research methodology applied centred around key distribution transformer measurements that included demand, quality of supply, and harmonic distortion. The distribution transformer monitoring was tested in a laboratory where voltage and current injection equipment were utilised to simulate network conditions. GSM communication technology and an Itron ACE SL7000 smart electricity meter were utilised for the laboratory testing. One key finding of the research conducted was the realisation of the richness of existing smart metering available at the distribution transformer level and how this can be utilised for monitoring. The efficacy of solutions with various degrees of additional hardware and software was compared. The solutions compared consisted of commercially available solutions, empirical research found in the literature, and laboratory testing performed for this dissertation. The topic that was researched is therefore a truly relevant problem of the electricity distribution network and was intended to provide municipalities and other stakeholders with the assurance that monitoring distribution transformers can be implemented easily where base smart metering infrastructure is in place to prevent complete transformer failure. There is also an energy efficiency aspect as the equipment can be monitored to check performance against its expected specification, whether it is being exceeded or under-utilised. A view of the energy efficiency factor can contribute to energy efficiency audit data that form part of the global United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Additional information
Thesis (MEng (Energy))--Cape Peninsula University of Technology, 2026
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Ventura, TR_196062608 (1).pdf
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4.19 MB
Format
Adobe PDF
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