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I agree with the above

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ICS 29.040.10
NRS 079-1:2004
ISBN 0-626-16612-8
Edition 1

Corrected version:2005

Rationalized User Specification

MINERAL INSULATING OILS (UNINHIBITED)

Part 1: Purchase, management, maintenance

and testing

N R S
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This rationalized user specification is issued by

the Technology Standardization Department (TSD), Eskom,
on behalf of the
User Group given in the foreword
and is not a standard as contemplated in the Standards Act, 1993 (Act No. 29 of 1993)

Table of changes
Change No. Date Text affected

Correspondence to be directed to Printed copies obtainable from

The NRS Projects Manager Standards South Africa

The Technology Standardization Department (TSD) Private Bag X191
Eskom Pretoria 0001
PO Box 1091
Johannesburg 2000 Telephone : (012) 428-7911
Fax : (012) 344-1568
E-mail : [email protected]
Website : http://www.nrs.eskom.co.za Website : http://www.stansa.co.za

COPYRIGHT RESERVED

Printed in the Republic of South Africa

by Standards South Africa
1 Dr Lategan Road, Groenkloof, Pretoria
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NRS 079-1:2004

Foreword
This part of NRS 079 was prepared on behalf of the Electricity Suppliers Liaison Committee (ESLC).

The Working Group comprised the following members:

G Makhathini (Chairman) Eskom (Distribution Technology)

F Bosch Eskom Technology Services International
PA Busch Eskom (Distribution Technology)
R Cormack Eskom Transmission
TH Dalton Rotek Engineering
E Dennyschen Eskom Distribution (Central Region)
JJG Dreyer Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality
H Fourie Rotek Engineering
A Fredericks (Project Leader) Eskom (Resources & Strategy)
AD Hiscock Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality
A Lombard Eskom Technology Services International
S Nassiep Eskom Technology Services International
N Raphulu Eskom Corporate Sustainability and Environment
D Steyn City Power (AMEU)
L Velthuyzen Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality
F Venter City of Tshwane
HC Visser Eskom Distribution (Central Region)

NRS 079 consists of the following parts, under the general title Mineral insulating oils (uninhibited):

Part 1: Purchase, management, maintenance and testing.

Part 2: Guidelines for the handling and sampling of mineral insulating oils.
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NRS 079-1:2004

Introduction
This part of NRS 079 has been prepared to establish and promote uniform requirements for
application in the South African Electricity Supply Industry.

The Electricity Suppliers Liaison Committee expresses the wish that all supply authorities should
adopt the text of this part of NRS 079 insofar as their particular conditions will permit. Any
differences between the requirements of this part of NRS 079 and the purchaser's requirements
should, as far as possible, be clearly indicated in schedules and, where appropriate, be submitted
for consideration in future revisions of this part of NRS 079.

It should be noted that this part of NRS 079 is not a standard on the interpretation of dissolved gas
analysis tests. This information is included for general information purposes only; the interpreting of
gas analysis results is not an exact science, mainly because of the influence of the many
transformer designs.

Keywords
insulating oil, transformer oil, uninhibited oil
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1 NRS 079-1:2004

Contents
Page

1 Scope .................................................................................................................................. 3

2 Normative reference ............................................................................................................ 3

3 Terms, definitions and abbreviations .................................................................................. 3

4 Requirements ...................................................................................................................... 6

4.1 Management provisions .............................................................................................. 6

4.2 Standard tests and analyses ....................................................................................... 7
4.3 Electrical equipment classification ............................................................................... 16
4.4 Oil requirements before commissioning ...................................................................... 16
4.5 Frequency of evaluating oil in service .......................................................................... 19
4.6 Evaluation of oil in service ........................................................................................... 21

Glossary .................................................................................................................................. 23

Bibliography ........................................................................................................................... 24
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NRS 079-1:2004 2

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3 NRS 079-1:2004

MINERAL INSULATING OILS (UNINHIBITED)

Part 1: Purchase, management, maintenance and testing

1 Scope
This part of NRS 079 covers provisions for the purchase, management, maintenance and testing of
new, regenerated and in-service mineral insulating oils for use in transformers, reactors, switchgear
and similar electrical apparatus for insulation and heat transfer purposes.

2 Normative reference
The following document contains provisions which, through reference in this text, constitutes
provisions of this part of NRS 079. All documents are subject to revision and, since any reference to
a document is deemed to be a reference to the latest edition of that document, parties to
agreements based on this specification are encouraged to take steps to ensure the use of the most
recent edition of the document listed below. Information on currently valid national and international
standards can be obtained from Standards South Africa.

SANS 555 (SABS 555), Unused and reclaimed mineral insulating oils for transformers and
switchgear.

3 Terms, definitions and abbreviations

For the purposes of this part of NRS 079, the following terms, definitions and abbreviations apply.

3.1 Terms and definitions

aniline point
temperature at which the oil becomes a solvent and gives an indication of the level of refining

clean up
action of remediation that includes soil excavation, bioremediation, solvent soil wash, land farming
or electrochemical treatment

corrosive sulfur
sulfur that contains molecules that have negative effects on oil and can cause corrosion problems in
power equipment

decommission
removal of an item of equipment from the network for an extended period (a period exceeding three
months)
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NRS 079-1:2004 4

density
ratio of the mass to a given volume of oil

dielectric dissipation factor

tan delta
measurement of the tangent of the phase angle or the tan of the loss angle based on the
measurement of the leakage current through the oil, which in turn is a measure of the contamination
or deterioration (or both) of oil

dielectric strength
ability of oil to withstand electrical stress, and is influenced by the presence of moisture and
particulate material in the oil

drip
dripping that can accumulate and result in a pool of oil

electrical equipment
transformer, capacitor, voltage regulator, recloser, switchgear or cable that contains dielectric fluid

flash point
temperature at which sufficient vapour is given off by the oil to support combustion

furanic content
content normally produced by the solid insulation in power equipment due to ageing and fault
conditions in the equipment, and is a by-product of paper degradation

gassing tendency
property, which is a function of the capacity of the oil, dependent on the structure of the oil, to
absorb the hydrogen formed by electrical discharges

NOTE Two types of oil are available – gas evolving and gas absorbing oils.

inhibited or uninhibited, adj

condition of oil where organic compounds (anti-oxidant additives) are found in an insulating oil that
undergoes oxidation

NOTE During the oxidation process, chemically unstable intermediate compounds are formed, with the
production of final oxidation products such as organic acids and sludges. A product that can render this
oxidation reaction inactive would be an inhibitor. Oils do contain a certain portion of natural inhibitors, but
additional inhibitors may be added to oil. The most commonly used inhibitor is Diisobutyl-para-cresol (DBPC),
also known as Butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT).

insulating oil
mineral oil used in transformers and other electrical equipment for insulation and cooling

interfacial tension
IFT
measure of the dipole concentration of a liquid

NOTE 1 A test is carried out to measure the strength of the interface between water and oil, which is
dependent on the polar groups in the oil.

NOTE 2 The test mentioned in note 1 is a very sensitive test; it will give an indication of the presence of
contaminants such as oxidation products or other foreign substances likely to be found.

leak
continuous dripping that will result in pooling of oil

NOTE Leaking requires corrective action since the electrical equipment will have to be topped-up.
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5 NRS 079-1:2004

moisture content
moisture dissolved in oil and measured in parts per million

NOTE 1 The moisture content of oil can be measured in milligrams per kilogram.

NOTE 2 The insulating value of oil is decreased with the presence of moisture. Moisture can originate from
various sources, both internal and external.

naphthenic, paraffinic or aromatic insulating oil

dependent on the relative proportions of the three molecular types, each of which conveys its own
properties of the finished product

NOTE Oil consists of hydrocarbon mixtures of three main types, i.e. naphthenes, paraffins and aromatics as
well as small quantities of sulfur, nitrogen and oxygen.

neutralization value
acidity
total acid number
indication or measure of the acidic constituents or contaminants in the oil

NOTE High acidity levels will promote the degradation of the paper and will induce corrosion in the
transformer. The presence of acids is normally an indication of oxidation of oil.

new oil
virgin oil or oil that has never been used in electrical equipment and that complies in all respects
with SANS 555

non-PCB
see PCB and non-PCB

on-site
own site
site, road or property that belongs to the owner of a particular item of electrical equipment

PCB
any one of a number of 209 congeners containing one to ten chlorine atoms attached to a biphenyl
group, and are synthetic products not known to occur naturally

NOTE New oil produced from crude oil does not contain PCB.

PCB contaminated item

equipment (e.g. transformer, electric motor, pump or pipe) or container (e.g. package, can, bottle,
bag, barrel, drum, tank) or any other device that contains PCB or the surfaces of which have been
in contact with PCB (the PCB being at a concentration of between 50 ppm and 500 ppm), or any
article (e.g. container, oil, water, soil, personal protective equipment) that has been in contact with
PCB or PCB contaminated equipment

PCB item
any item that has a measurable PCB concentration equal to or exceeding 500 ppm

non-PCB
oil, including oil in electrical equipment and in any item of equipment, that has a measurable PCB
concentration of less than 20 ppm

pour point
point at which oil loses its liquid properties

NOTE This property is important in cold climates, where the oil still needs to flow freely and serve its purpose
as an insulant.
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NRS 079-1:2004 6

regenerated oil
reclaimed oil
used oil that has been reprocessed to comply in all respects with SANS 555

remediation
method of clean up that will ensure a minimum hydrocarbon or synthetic oil presence of 1 000 ppm
or 0,1 % above the background level in the case of petroleum products, and 5 000 ppm in the case
of mineral-based products

routine tests
group of tests performed on a regular basis

spill
amount of oil present out of its normal container

NOTE "Normal" refers to a transformer or a drum, etc. (see electrical equipment).

viscosity
ability of a certain volume of oil to flow over a period of time at a given temperature

NOTE The viscosity properties are directly related to the cooling characteristics of the oil.

3.2 Abbreviations
BTA: benzotriazole

DGA: dissolved gas analysis

DP: degree of polymerization

KOH/mg: amount of potassium hydroxide, measured in milligrams, needed to neutralize the

amount of acid in a weighed amount of oil

PAH: polyaromatic hydrocarbon(s)

PCB: polychlorinated biphenyl

PD: partial discharge

ppm: parts per million

4 Requirements
4.1 Management provisions
Management shall establish a mineral insulating oil quality management system. The
responsibilities of management shall be to

a) formulate a documented quality policy appropriate to the quality management of mineral

insulating oils as delivered, in service, during storage, and at disposal,

b) document quality requirements,

c) delegate responsibilities for key functions, including quality assurance, quality control, and health
and safety,

d) ensure that all staff who work with mineral insulating oil are made aware of the proper handling of
oil and the effect of oil on the environment, and

e) provide resources to ensure a safe and hygienic work environment.

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7 NRS 079-1:2004

4.2 Standard tests and analyses

4.2.1 Oil analyses

4.2.1.1 Test and analysis

The analyses shown in column 1 of table 1 shall be performed on electrical equipment that contains
mineral oil.

Table 1 — Standard tests and analyses

1 2 3 4
Recommended method
Analysis Test set Subclause
of analysis
Dissolved gas analysis (DGA) 1 IEC 60628 4.2.1
Dielectric strength 1 IEC 60156 4.2.2
Moisture content 1 IEC 60814 or 4.2.3
ASTM D 1533
Acidity 1 IEC 62021-1 4.2.4
Furanic analysis 2 IEC 61198 4.2.5
Colour and appearance 2 ISO 2049 4.2.6
Dielectric dissipation factor or tan delta 2 BS 5737 or 4.2.7
IEC 60247
Sediment and sludge 2 IEC 60296 4.2.8
Interfacial tension 2 ISO 6295 4.2.9
Particle contamination 3 ISO 4406 4.2.10
Resistivity 3 IEC 60246
Polychlorinated biphenyl 3 IEC 60619 or 4.2.11
EPA 600/4-81-045
Inhibitor content 3 IEC 60666
Oxidation stability 3 IEC 60074
Flash point 3 ASTM D 93
IP 34
Compatibility 3
Density 3 ISO 3675 or ISO 12185
Viscosity 3 ASTM D 445 or
IP 71-1
Corrosive sulfur 3 ASTM D 1275
Aniline point 3 ASTM D 611
Gassing tendency 3 IEC 60628, method A
NOTE 1 Test set 1 are routine tests.

NOTE 2 Test set 2 are age-assessment tests.

NOTE 3 Test set 3 are specially requested tests.

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NRS 079-1:2004 8

4.2.1.2 Transformer oil gas analysis

Dissolved gas analysis is a valuable technique for detecting and identifying faults that occur in
transformers and reactors. Heat and electrical discharges that occur inside the unit lead to the
decomposition (breakdown) of the insulating oil and other insulating materials (paper, barrier board,
resin, etc.). Slow generation of gas may allow absorption of gas into the oil whereas a sudden large
release of gas will result in gas that does not dissolve in the oil and this will cause the Buchholz
relay to activate.

4.2.1.3 Gas chromatography

4.2.1.3.1 By separating, identifying and quantifying (measuring) the gases found dissolved in the
oil, it is possible to identify the presence of an incipient fault (early warning).

4.2.1.3.2 The amounts and types of gas found in the oil are indicative of the severity and type of
fault that occurs in the transformer. The rate of gas generation is one of the most important
variables and this obviously requires more than one sample to be taken at specified intervals.

4.2.1.3.3 It is important to note that the results are generally given as a concentration per oil
volume and that the total oil volume is therefore important.

4.2.1.3.4 The separation, identification and quantification of gas require the use of sophisticated
laboratory equipment and technical skills and can therefore only be conducted by a suitably
equipped and approved laboratory.

NOTE "Approved" in this context means compliance with customer requirements.

4.2.1.3.5 The key gases produced are

a) hydrogen (H2),

b) methane (CH4),

c) ethane (C2H6),

d) ethylene (C2H4),

e) acetylene (C2H2),

f) carbon monoxide (CO), and

g) carbon dioxide (CO2).

4.2.1.3.6 Higher hydrocarbon gases are produced but they are not generally considered when the
gas analysis data are being interpreted.

4.2.1.4 Origin of gases in transformer oil

4.2.1.4.1 The following have been identified:

a) Fault gases are caused by corona (partial discharge), thermal heating (pyrolysis) and arcing.
Partial discharge is a fault of low-level energy, which usually occurs in gas-filled voids
surrounded by oil-impregnated material. The main cause of decomposition in partial discharges
is ionic bombardment of the oil molecules. The major gas produced is hydrogen and the minor
gas produced is methane.
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9 NRS 079-1:2004

b) Thermal faults. A small amount of decomposition occurs at normal operating temperatures. As

the fault temperature rises, the formation of the degradation gases change from methane (CH4)
to ethane (C2H6) to ethylene (C2H4).

A thermal fault at “low” temperature (< 300 °C) produces mainly methane and ethane and some
ethylene. A thermal fault at “higher” temperature (> 300 °C) produces ethylene. The higher the
temperature becomes, the greater the production of ethylene.

c) Arcing is a fault caused by high energy discharge. The major gas produced during arcing is
acetylene. Power arcing can cause temperatures of over 3 000 °C.

NOTE If cellulose material (insulating paper, etc.) is involved, carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide are
generated.

4.2.1.4.2 A normally ageing, conservator type transformer should have a CO2/CO ratio of about 7.
Any CO2/CO ratio above 11 or below 3 should be regarded as perhaps indicating a fault involving
cellulose provided that the other gas analyses results also indicate excessive oil degradation.

4.2.2 Dielectric strength

4.2.2.1 In transformers, oil is used in conjunction with oil-impregnated paper to provide insulation.
However, oil is not as strong as the oil-impregnated paper. The dielectric constant of oil is less than
that of paper so that the oil tends to be more stressed than the paper. As a result of this, it may be
stated that oil is the weak link in the transformer and that the condition of the oil is of great
importance. The maintenance of the oil is paramount to maintain the dielectric strength properties of
the oil. Dielectric strength is therefore the insulation property that the oil inherently displays.

4.2.2.2 Moisture content and dielectric strength are related and have an inverse relationship, i.e. if
the concentration of moisture in the oil is high, the dielectric strength is normally low and vice versa.
When the moisture concentration remains low and the dielectric strength is also low, the
maintenance practitioner should take note. If this occurs there are normally other contaminants
present in the oil and these could be from other sources in the transformer tank. Carbon (from the
tap-changer), paper, wood and other material particles are common. These contaminants should be
removed as soon as possible to recover the dielectric strength of the oil. In this case oil filtration or
replacement of the oil with regenerated oil is essential.

4.2.2.3 Particles in oil decrease the dielectric strength of the oil. The degree of decrease depends
on the particle type involved, the particle size and the moisture content of the oil. Paper, copper,
iron, wood and dust particles might be found in oil. All these particles are detrimental to the
dielectric strength of oil. Paper particles in conjunction with appreciable amounts of moisture can be
especially detrimental to the dielectric strength, as these particles absorb moisture from the oil and
become semi-conductive. The temperature of the oil also plays a vital role. As the viscosity
(thickness of the oil) decreases with the rise in temperature, the particles tend to settle to the bottom
of the tank. However, if there is a high concentration of particles at a lower temperature, the
particles are held in suspension by the higher viscosity and decrease the dielectric strength of the
oil.

4.2.2.4 Oil in a tap-changer diverter is not as critical; in most cases carbon particles are present in
the tap-changer diverter but the tap-changer diverter is designed to operate under these conditions.
In extreme cases the carbon from the tap-changer diverter might reach levels detrimental to the tap-
changer diverter and cause a flashover. Typical dielectric strength withstand values for a diverter oil
range are between 30 kV/2,5 mm to 40 kV/2,5 mm. The oil from the tap-changer or diverter and the
main tank should never come into contact with each other, since the carbon will deposit itself on the
windings and cause tracking and eventual failure of other insulation.
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NRS 079-1:2004 10

4.2.3 Moisture content

4.2.3.1 Moisture, even in minute quantities, is harmful in power transformers and power equipment
because water is attracted to places of the greatest electrical stress where it has the greatest
detrimental effect. Moisture accelerates the deterioration of both the insulating oil and the insulating
materials used inside the transformer. Once deterioration has been initiated, more moisture is
produced. This is a self-supporting cycle and once the paper has been degraded, it can never be
returned to its original condition. Moisture either on its own or in conjunction with cellulose particles
also has a detrimental effect on the dielectric properties of oil. Where concentrations are high
enough, free water can also be generated in the transformer, which can lead to electrical
breakdown. Moisture can be readily removed from the oil, however, due to the fact that most of the
moisture in a transformer is located in the paper, the removal of moisture is not effective without
first removing the moisture in the paper. Therefore, there is no “quick fix” solution in the case of a
transformer with high levels of moisture. Oil can be damaged during this process and it is best to
test the oil after regeneration to ensure compliance with SANS 555.

4.2.3.2 Moisture can originate from the following two sources:

a) the atmosphere – if the transformer is free breathing with poorly functioning or leaking drying
equipment (breathers); or

b) internal sources – by the degradation of cellulose and by-products of heated insulating oil. This is
the greatest source of moisture in a transformer.

4.2.3.3 The presence of moisture will not only deteriorate the dielectric strength of the oil, but could
increase the partial discharge tendency as the water content rises. However, it shall be noted that
the highest stress points are adjacent to the hottest parts of the structure and the current-carrying
conductor, thus they have the lowest water content. Therefore during operating under normal
loading the moisture is not a problem as such, but when the unit is de-energized for long periods,
the moisture is evenly distributed throughout the paper insulation and the situation is aggravated
when the oil carries an excess of water. Once the transformer is re-energized there is a high risk of
the transformer developing partial discharge at the high stress points with probable catastrophic
damage.

4.2.3.4 With the migration of moisture from the insulation to the oil as the transformer operating
temperature rises, the oil will become "wetter". As the temperature of the oil increases so does its
ability to receive moisture (this phenomenon where the moisture is dissolved in the oil to the point of
saturation where water particles start to form, is referred to as the saturation point curve). As the oil
ages, the capability of the oil to hold more moisture increases. Thus the saturation point curve shifts
higher. This is normally not a problem, until the oil cools down. It is at this time the oil and water
separate and water droplets form. The distribution of moisture in a transformer is a function of the
overall temperature of the transformer. As the temperature increases, the moisture moves from the
paper to the oil and as it cools down it moves from the oil back into the paper. At any given time the
paper holds approximately 9 % of the total moisture content of the transformer. The paper/oil
equilibrium forms the basis of relative analysis of the moisture content (percentage by weight) of the
paper by measuring the moisture content of the oil.

NOTE Equilibrium can take longer than a week of operation at a constant temperature to be achieved.

For many years a standard of 20 ppm was used to indicate that the transformer was wet, however it
has been known that temperature has had an influence on the amount of water present in the oil.
Further, the age of the oil plays a vital role in the amount of moisture present in the oil.

4.2.4 Acidity or neutralization value

4.2.4.1 The neutralization value of the oil is a measure of the presence of acidic compounds in the
oil. An increase in the neutralization number will normally indicate oxidation of the oil. The presence
of acids is negligible in new or virgin oil, but increases as a result of oxidative ageing. Acidity is
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11 NRS 079-1:2004

normally used as a measure to decide when oil should be replaced or reclaimed. Failure to proceed
with these actions will cause the oil to become corrosive and produce dissolved sludge and finally
sludge deposits. These deposits can result in overheating and the acid will further weaken the solid
insulation material, resulting in eventual failure. The acids will also increase the solubility of moisture
in the oil and paper, due to the polar nature of these compounds.

4.2.4.2 From the moment new oil is introduced into the transformer, it starts to age. The oil is
subjected to heat, oxygen and moisture in the transformer. The oil will be oxidized, resulting in the
formation of sludge, acids and other oxidation products such as peroxides, ketones and alcohols.
Heat, electrical fields, ultraviolet light and mechanical sheering normally trigger the oxidation
reaction. It has been proven that the acid content is directly proportional to the amount of oxygen
absorbed by the oil. Peroxides are formed as intermediate products. These products are very
unstable and will further react with the oil and paper. A mechanically weak oxycellulose compound
will form; this compound lacks mechanical strength, and weakens the paper or cellulose. The final
stage of this process is the formation of sludge. Sludge is normally a solid resin-like substance and
has been found to contain materials such as metal oxides, varnishes, paints as well as carbon and
even silica derivatives. The sludge will evolve out of solution (dissolved sludge) and form deposits
which will settle on the walls of the tank and the insulation.

4.2.4.3 The only method for the removal of acid from oil is a process commonly known as
regeneration. This process normally entails the passage of the oil over a bed of fuller's earth or
activated carbon, or both. Other compounds such as active bentonite clay, diatomaceous earth,
white bauxite, alumina, zeolite, etc., are also used in some plants. The exact configuration and
mixtures remain a secret. These compounds will remove the moisture and particulate materials from
the oil. In addition, it will also remove all oxidation products from the oil and the acid, correcting the
chemical properties of the oil basically to its original state.

4.2.4.4 A process such as the one mentioned above chemically interacts with the oil and it is thus
vital that all the properties of the oil be checked after the process. This will normally involve
accelerated ageing and the analysis of the acid content of the oil. The acid content of the oil after
the accelerated ageing process may not exceed 0,4 mg KOH/g of oil.

4.2.5 Furanic analysis

4.2.5.1 Preventative insulation condition monitoring has been proven to be a valuable tool in the life
extension of power equipment. These analyses are based on the detection of the products of
insulation degradation, which are dispersed between the liquid and the solid insulation. Most of
these products are polar in nature and will contribute to the occurrence of harmful currents in the
electrical and magnetic fields of the transformer insulation system.

4.2.5.2 The analysis of dissolved gases produced in transformer oil, due to internal faults, is
probably the most important analysis. The presence of carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide,
detected with gas analysis, may be attributed to the degradation of the cellulose system of a
transformer. The presence of these compounds may however not be specifically associated with the
paper insulation degradation, since long-term oxidation of the oil, specifically in the case of free
breathing apparatus, will also be responsible for the production of these gases. The utilization only
of these compounds, to predict the state of the cellulose, is therefore not reliable.

4.2.5.3 The paper insulation comprises cellulose, which is a polymer that consists of long chains of
glucose rings, joined by glycosidic bonds. The number of these glucose rings is referred to as the
degree of polymerization (DP) of the cellulose. Cellulose decomposition results in the formation of
glucose, moisture, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide and some organic acids. Glucose tends to be
unstable and has a very low solubility in transformer oil. The dehydration of the glucose molecules
is responsible for the production of furanic derivatives, which are partially soluble in the oil.

4.2.5.4 The analysis of the levels of total furanic compounds present in the oil, has been proven to
be a more reliable technique for the estimation of the state of the solid insulation system. Various
analytical techniques have been adopted for this purpose, with the utilization of high performance
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NRS 079-1:2004 12

liquid chromatography (HPLC) being the most common. This technique is based on the extraction of
the furanic compounds from the oil with an organic solvent, or an alternative method, the utilization
of a solid adsorbent from which the furanics are recovered with an organic solvent. The organic
solvent is then quantitatively analysed with HPLC for the presence of furanics.

4.2.5.5 The information obtained from the quantification of the furanics in the oil is related back to
the degree of polymerization which will give a direct indication of the level of deterioration of the
solid insulation system. Cellulose degradation is accelerated by the presence of moisture, oxygen
and temperature, which are all available to the cellulose in the environment of the transformer.

4.2.5.6 A word of caution needs to be expressed regarding transformer maintenance processes

such as regeneration of the oil by a fuller’s earth process, which will remove the furanic compounds
totally and a vacuum treatment process, which will remove the furanic compounds partially. These
treatments will render the analysis of furanics suspect, however, the rate of production trended over
an uninterrupted period of time is of great value. The benefit of this analysis is to establish a
maintenance programme to stall the rate of degradation or to take the unit off-line for immediate
action before a failure.

4.2.6 Colour and appearance

4.2.6.1 The colour of an oil will give the observer quick information on-site. Abnormalities or rapid
changes over a short period of time in the condition of the equipment will be observed. It is not a
critical test, but is very useful for a comparative evaluation. A greenish colour is normally indicative
of the presence of arcing, such as in the case of a diverter or tap-changer sample. A pale yellow to
yellow (light to straw) oil will normally indicate a new, good and propositional oil. A bright yellow to
amber (straw/dark straw to light brown) colour will indicate a marginal to bad oil. A brown to black
colour will indicate a very bad to extremely bad oil. Systematic documentation of these observations
is vital to track trends and provide meaningful information to the observer.

4.2.6.2 Rapidly changing colour may be an indication of oil deterioration or contamination. Colour
combined with smell can give further information. Colour change can be due to normal ageing,
oxidation or burning. A dark oil colour will indicate that the oil has started to deteriorate and will be
the first phase in the formation of free sludge. Arcing and thus cracking of the oil can contribute to a
bad burning smell. Cloudiness or sediment will normally appear, which indicate the presence of free
water, insoluble sludge, carbon, cellulose or fibres, dirt, etc. Oil will start to oxidize as soon as it is
exposed to ultraviolet light. The ultraviolet light triggers a reaction between the oil and available
oxygen, resulting in various products referred to as oxidation products. A colour change will be
observed within a short period of time (hours). Heat will have the same effect on the oil. These
processes also take place inside the transformer, but in addition cellulose will also contribute to the
amount of products in the oil. All these factors result in colour change, with the degree of change
dependant on the severity of the processes involved.

4.2.6.3 Purification that consists of oil circulation, oil dehydration, degassification as well as
filtration will not change the oil colour. The only process that will succeed in changing the colour, is
the process normally referred to as regeneration of the oil. This is a process that implies the use of
a chemical or adsorbent. The most common adsorbent is fuller's earth, but a number of others are
also used, such as activated alumina, bauxite and molecular sieves. These products act as
adsorbents and any polar compounds such as oxidation by-products will adsorb onto these
products, remove them from the oil and improve the colour of the oil. In order to optimize the life
expectancy of power equipment, long-term rectification measures should be considered. These
measures include the minimization of available oxygen and the reduction of heat, which will result in
the formation of oil and cellulose oxidation products; this can be achieved by the modification of a
free-breathing transformer to a sealed unit as well as the reduction of the temperatures at which the
cooling fans are automatically activated.

4.2.6.4 In figure 1, the initial digits indicate the American Standard Technical Method colour codes
(see ASTM D 1500) for the specific colours as shown in the figure.
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13 NRS 079-1:2004

0 – 0.5 LIGHT
1.0 – 1.5 LIGHT STRAW

1.5 – 2.0 STRAW

2.5 – 3.0 DARK STRAW

3.5 – 4.0 LIGHT BROWN

4.5 – 5.0 BROWN

5.5 – 6.0 DARK BROWN

6.5 – 7.0 BLACK

Figure 1 — American Standard Technical Method (ASTM) colour codes

4.2.7 Dielectric dissipation factor or tan delta

4.2.7.1 The tan delta test is known as the test for dielectric dissipation factor or the loss tangent
measurement. Tan delta can be defined as the measurement of the cosine of the phase angle or
the tangent of the loss angle. It is basically the measurement of the leakage current through the oil,
which in turn is a measure of the contamination or deterioration of the oil. The oil is non-polar and
most contaminants are polar, enabling a dipole action, which this test depends upon. A normal
degree of refining will result in a low value for the power factor. The presence of contaminants such
as engine oil will easily be detected with this parameter.

4.2.7.2 New oil should have a very low tan delta value which will increase with the use of the oil.
Water will not affect this property, but might form stable complexes, which will give higher tan delta
values. As oil ages, the oxidation of oil will affect the tan delta and an increase in the tan delta value
will be observed. The oxidation process entails the formation of oxides, which forms acids, and
these acids are responsible for the degradation of the cellulose material or paper insulation as well
as the metal components of the transformer. New oil will have a tan delta of less than 0,005 at
90 °C and 50 Hz. Tan delta will give an indication of the degree of cleanliness of the oil. Oxidation
products will have an effect but so will lacquers and other materials that have dissolved in the oil.

4.2.7.3 Many factors will affect the tan delta value of the oil. These factors include ageing or
impurities that form during the transformer operation and the intrinsic properties of the oil itself. The
cause of the increase of tan delta and its instability was found to be mainly due to the colloid
formation of liquid-phobic gel. In theory voltage and current should be 90° shifted in phase, but in
effect this does not happen, as the leading reactive current is not the only current present. An active
current will also be flowing and this can be caused in liquids, owing to the following three effects:

a) the transport of carrier (ions) through the electric field, which is also temperature dependent –
with higher temperature the losses increase as a result of the ion mobility that increases with a
decrease in viscosity;

b) the loss by rotation of electric dipoles (orientation polarization). This can be explained as follows:
a water molecule has a permanent dipole moment due to the molecular orientation. This
molecule will orientate itself according to the electrical field. With an alternating-current circuit
voltage the orientation of the field strength changes corresponding to the frequency of the
adjacent alternating-current voltage. The water molecules will shift 180° and a loss will be
incurred in the form of friction heat. With mineral oils, the maximum polarization losses take place
approximately at −30 °C, and at higher temperatures the polarization losses decrease; and

c) partial discharges such as gas bubbles.

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NRS 079-1:2004 14

4.2.8 Sediment and sludge

4.2.8.1 The oil forms an integral part of the overall insulation system in the transformer. The
insulation system consists of the transformer insulating oil in conjunction with the solid oil-
impregnated paper, providing insulation between windings and from the windings to the ground. The
dielectric constant of transformer oil is less than that of the solid insulation paper, thus the oil tends
to be stressed more than the paper. Hence the condition of the transformer oil becomes a crucial
factor in the maintenance of a transformer. The combined effect of oxidation products such as acid
and sludge can be detrimental to a transformer in service. Acid in the oil will trigger chemical
decomposition of the insulation system (paper and oil) and sludge will restrict efficient cooling, due
to its accumulation on and between windings and cooling surfaces; this will cause further oxidation
resulting in more acid and sludge.

4.2.8.2 The oxidation process culminates with the formation of sludge which

a) as a suspended impurity, decreases the fluid dielectric withstand strength in a manner similar to
that in the case of particles,

b) as a semi-conductive sediment, decreases the insulation dielectric withstand strength and may
provide for tracking, or

c) when extremely acidic, will aggressively age both the oil and the cellulose insulation.

4.2.8.3. The conditions under which sludge will form are not always readily apparent. In the
presence of a strong electrical field, sludge may form even though the acidity is low. A number of
sludge deposits have been found on local insulation zones where the electric field strengths are
quite high.

4.2.8.4 Transformer oil consists of approximately 2 900 hydrocarbons of which 2 % to 35 % is

aromatic. Sludge is defined as thick, greasy mud, slushy sediment or deposit. The sludge that forms
in transformers is however of questionable formation and composition. The greatest factor in the
formation of sludge is the oxidation of the transformer oil, whether naturally or in-service.
Transformer oil contains natural oxidation inhibitors. In the event of these inhibitors becoming
exhausted, the oxidation process rapidly increases. The oxidation components act upon each other
and on the original oil resulting in the formation of sludge. The sludge formed is a resinous
polymeric substance that eventually becomes insoluble in the transformer oil. Insolubility is reached
when consecutive hardened layers are formed. The sludge formed is partially conductive,
hygroscopic, and acts as a heat insulator. Normal ageing of transformer oil also results in sludge
formation, this being all the solid crud collecting at the bottom of the transformer. Sludge will appear
quicker in a heavily loaded, hot running and badly maintained transformer. The oxidation process is
increased in the presence of moisture and oxygen, acting as catalysts. As the sludge build-up
increases, consecutive layers with varying degrees of hardness are formed, depending on how the
unit has been operating. Oil oxidation is also increased by various secondary factors, i.e. heat,
vibration, shock loading, surge voltages and high electrical stresses.

4.2.9 Interfacial tension

4.2.9.1 New oil should have a high value of interfacial tension, which will decrease with the use of
the oil. The interfacial tension (IFT) of a mineral insulating oil is related to the deterioration of the oil.
The mineral insulating oil is essentially a non-polar saturated hydrocarbon; however, when the oil
ages, oxygenated species such as carboxylic acids, which are hydrophilic, are formed.

The presence of these materials in the insulating oil can affect the chemical (acidity), electrical
(dielectric strength), and physical (interfacial tension) properties of the oil. In this procedure one
measures the surface tension of the oil against that of water, which is highly polar. The more the
two liquids are alike in their polarity, the lower the value of the surface tension between them. Thus
the higher the concentration of hydrophilic materials in the insulating oil, the lower will be the
interfacial tension of the oil measured against that of water. There are several methods that can be
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15 NRS 079-1:2004

used to measure the interfacial tension of oil against that of water. Interfacial tension is one of the
critical insulating properties of oil and a decrease in the IFT will promote heat build-up since the
used oil is more conductive due to the presence of oxidation products. This in turn will result in
sludge formation, with higher temperatures and an eventual thermal fault.

4.2.9.2 Interfacial tension between the water and oil is used to measure the molecular attractive
force between the molecules of water and oil. The molecular attractive force is expressed in dynes
per centimetre or in millinewtons per metre and is measured using a platinum ring tensiometer. A
planar platinum ring is first placed in the interface of water and oil and then it is lifted, using a torsion
wire, into the oil. The force required to lift the ring from the interface is proportional to the interfacial
tension. Interfacial tension is extremely useful for the determination of the presence of polar
contaminants and oil decay products.

Good oil will have an interfacial tension of between 40 mN/m and 50 mN/m. Oil oxidation products
lower the interfacial tension (IFT) and have an affinity for both water (hydrophilic) and oil. This
affinity for both substances lowers the IFT. At the interface oil oxidation products extend across to
the water, thus a vertical force is exerted reducing the lateral tension. The greater the concentration
of contaminants, the lower the IFT, with a badly deteriorated oil having an IFT of 18 mN/m or less.

4.2.10 Particle contamination

4.2.10.1 Insulation problems involve predominantly impairment of insulation conditions in service. A

general ageing problem is the accumulation of conductive and polar particles in oil, as well as the
deposit of these particles on the surface of the insulation material. This was noticed as adsorption of
insoluble ageing products in areas of high electrical stress. The surface contamination can cause
distortion of the electrical field, as well as the reduction in the electrical strength of the insulation
system. Typical faults that can occur are flashing over in high-voltage windings under the effect of
switching surges and lightning impulses due to contamination of surfaces with conductive particles
and polar oil ageing products.

4.2.10.2 Particles in oil decrease both the a.c. and d.c. breakdown voltages of the oil. The
breakdown voltage is dependent on both the particle size and the conductivity of the particles. With
conducting metal or partially conductive particles such as carbon and wet cellulose fibres, the
decrease of the breakdown strength is significantly greater in the case of direct voltage. Small
particles can agglomerate to form larger particles. These larger agglomerates can again break up
under mechanical and electrical stresses to form smaller particles, resulting in contradictory test
results obtained in some laboratory analyses.

4.2.11 Polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB)

4.2.11.1 Polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) is the generic term for a broad class of fire-resistant
synthetic insulating liquids composed of polychlorinated biphenyls, sometimes with the addition of
polychlorinated benzenes. PCB is a synthetic substance not known to occur naturally. It was first
described in technical literature in 1881 and commercial production commenced in the late 1920s.
PCB is any one of a number of 209 possible variations in which one to ten chlorine atoms are
attached to a biphenyl group. PCB was produced under a number of trade names by a number of
manufacturers. In the electrical field, askarels have mainly been used as insulants in power
transformers and power capacitors.

4.2.11.2 PCB is soluble in most organic solvents, but insoluble in water. It is denser than water and
when added to water will sink to the bottom. Most PCB mixtures are non-volatile at a temperature
around 40 °C, with a flash point at a temperature exceeding 300 °C. Overheating of electrical
equipment can produce emissions of irritating and toxic vapours. PCB is completely destroyed
under extreme heat conditions, such as in temperatures exceeding 1 100 °C. PCB can only be
found in equipment where it had been intentionally placed or accidentally mixed in. It comes from an
external source; it is not produced or "grown" within the transformer. The presence of PCB in
mineral insulating oil is due to contamination during top-ups, purification, filtration or oil replacement.
PCB is listed on the United Nations' Persistant Organic Pollutant (POP) list.
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NRS 079-1:2004 16

4.3 Electrical equipment classification

In order for this part of NRS 079 to be applicable to all electrical equipment in industry, classification
of electrical equipment is necessary. The classification shown in table 2 will apply.

Table 2 — Electrical equipment classification

1 2
Category Classification
Class O Power transformers and reactors with a nominal system voltage > 400 kV.
Class A Power transformers and reactors with a nominal system voltage > 132 kV and < 400 kV.
Also includes power transformers of any related voltage where continuity of supply is vital
and similar equipment for special applications where equipment is required to operate
under onerous conditions.
Class B Power transformers and reactors with a nominal system voltage > 44 kV and < 132 kV
(other than those in class A).
Class C Power transformers and reactors for medium voltage and low-voltage auxiliary, neutral
earthing compensators, neutral earthing resistors, earthing resistors and earthing trans-
formers, including diverter tanks of on-load tap changers application, e.g. of nominal
system voltages < but excluding 44 kV and traction transformers (other than those in
class A).
Class D Instrument, bushing, or protection transformers and oil-filled circuit-breakers with a nominal
system voltage > 132 kV.
Class E Instrument, bushing, or protection transformers with a nominal system voltage < 132 kV.
Oil-filled circuit-breakers with a nominal system voltage > 44 kV < 132 kV.
Class F Diverter tanks of on-load tap changers, including combined selector/diverter tanks and
transformers with a nominal system voltage > 44 kV.
Class G Oil-filled circuit-breakers with a nominal system voltage > 11 kV < 44 kV.
Class H Oil-filled switches, a.c. metal-enclosed switchgear and controlgear with a nominal system
voltage < 11 kV.
NOTE 1 Separated selector tanks of on-load tap changers belong to the same class as the transformer
that they are installed on.

NOTE 2 Oil-impregnated paper bushings and other hermetically sealed units will form part of class D.
Inception testing will be performed on these units and thereafter testing will only be performed when
these units are out of service. No intrusive testing will be performed on these units.

NOTE 3 Regardless of the size or voltage of a unit, a risk assessment, or strategic consideration, may
justify condition monitoring frequency or analyses requirements of a higher classification.

NOTE 4 For practical reasons, some owners of electrical equipment can decide that their equipment up
to 1 MVA are not included in this classification. Routine monitoring programmes can not be considered
economical for this type of equipment.

4.4 Oil requirements before commissioning

4.4.1 Oil can enter the process as virgin oil supplied to a site, or as oil that has been recycled
through a regeneration process, or as oil supplied in the equipment when purchased new or after a
repair. There may thus be slight differences in the oil in different items of equipment. Regenerated
oil may contain low levels of PCB since nearly all the oil in South African equipment contains low
levels of PCB contamination. New or regenerated oil that has been placed in the equipment will
contain tiny particles due to the exposure to the cellulose insulation. It is hence vital that the various
stages of oil life be defined by different applicable criteria.

Tables 3 to 5 show recommended limits for the various stages, given the process background.
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17 NRS 079-1:2004

Table 3 — Recommended limits for oil properties of new oil

1 2 3 4
Reference or test
Oil Unit Specification
method
Oil type Naphthenic
Colour ISO units ≤ 0,5 max. ASTM D 1500
Inhibitor Uninhibited
Appearance Clear, free of sediment IEC 60296
and suspended matter
3
Density at 20 °C kg/dm ≤ 0,895 IP 160
2
Kinematic viscosity at 40 °C mm /s ≤ 16,5 ASTM D 445 –
IP 71-1
Flash point °C ≥ 140 ASTM D 93 – IP 34
Pour point °C ≤ –21 ASTM D 97 – IP 15
Interfacial tension at 20 °C mN/m ≥ 40 ISO 6295
Neutralization value mg KOH/g ≤ 0,03 SANS 555
Corrosive sulfur Non-corrosive ASTM D 1275
a
Moisture mg/kg ≤ 10 IEC 60814
b
≤ 20
Anti-oxidant additives % mass fraction No additives IEC 60666
Oxidation stability acidity after
164 h at 100 °C mg KOH/g ≤ 0,4 IEC 61125
Oxidation stability sludge after
164 h at 100 °C % mass fraction ≤ 0,1 IEC 61125
a
Dielectric strength kV/2,5 mm ≥ 70 IEC 60156
b
≥ 60
Dissipation factor at 90 °C ≤ 0,005 IEC 60247
Aromatic content % 6 to 14 IEC 60590
Total fufural and furans mg/kg Not detectable SANS 555
Polyaromatic hydrocarbon % ≤ 3,0 IP 346
Gassing tendency mm3/min ≤ +5 SANS 555
3
Particle contamination and Particle size < 5µm ≤ 1 000 particles/dm ISO 4406
fibres per 100 mL Particle size < 15µm 3
≤ 130 particles/dm
Aniline point °C 63 to 84 ASTM D 611
Polychlorinated biphenyl mg/kg Not detectable EPA 600/4-81-045
a
Before transportation.
b
On delivery.
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NRS 079-1:2004 18

Table 4 — Recommended limits for oil properties of regenerated oil

1 2 3 4
Reference or test
Oil Unit Specification
method
Oil type Naphthenic
Colour ISO units ≤ 1,0 max. ASTM D 1500
Appearance Clear, free of sediment IEC 60296
and suspended matter
3
Density at 20 °C kg/dm ≤ 0,895 IP 160
2
Kinemetic viscosity at 40 °C mm /s ≤ 16,5 ASTM D 445 –
IP 71-1
Flash point °C ≥ 140 ASTM D 93 – IP 34
Pour point °C ≤ –21 ASTM D 97 – IP 15
Interfacial tension at 20 °C mN/m ≥ 40 ISO 6295
Neutralization value mg KOH/g ≤ 0,03 SANS 555
Corrosive sulfur Non-corrosive ASTM D 1275
a
Moisture mg/kg ≤ 10 IEC 60814
b
≤ 20
Anti-oxidant additives % mass fraction No additives IEC 60666
Oxidation stability acidity after mg KOH/g ≤ 0,4 IEC 61125
164 h at 100 °C
Oxidation stability sludge after % mass fraction ≤ 0,1 IEC 61125
164 h at 100 °C
a
Dielectric strength kV/2,5 mm ≥ 70 IEC 60156
b
≥ 60
Dissipation factor at 90 °C ≤ 0,005 IEC 60247
Aromatic content % 6 to 14 IEC 60590
Total fufural and furans mg/kg Not detectable SANS 555
Polyaromatic hydrocarbon % ≤ 3,0 IP 346
3
Gassing tendency mm /min ≤ +5 SANS 555
3
Particle contamination and Particle size < 5 µm ≤ 1 000 particles/dm ISO 4406:2000
fibres per 100 mL Particle size < 15 µm 3
≤ 130 particles/dm
Aniline point °C 63 to 84 ASTM D 611
c
Polychlorinated biphenyl mg/kg ≤ 20 EPA 600/4-81-045
a
Before transportation.
b
On delivery.
c
See the latest national legislation.

4.4.2 Only virgin oil shall be used when equipment is being topped up, particularly in equipment
that contains paper insulation.

4.4.3 Under no circumstances shall PCB values be increased by adding oil with a greater PCB
concentration than the existing concentration level in any item of equipment.

4.4.4 Under no circumstances shall PCB values be allowed to increase in the regenerated pool by
adding oils of higher PCB concentration than the existing concentration level in the oil pool.
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19 NRS 079-1:2004

4.4.5 Under no circumstances shall virgin oil (zero ppm PCB) be used to dilute PCB values in
contaminated oil.

4.4.6 Regenerated oil may be used in switchgear and tap-changers. If regenerated oil does not
comply with the requirements of table 4, it shall not be reused or added to the oil pool again.

NOTE See NRS 085-2 which deals with disposal issues relating to mineral insulating oils. (NTS 085-2 is in
course of preparation.)

Table 5 — Recommended limits for mineral oil after filling, before recommissioning

1 2 3 4
Classes C, G Classes O, A, B, D, E,
Parameter(s) Unit
(H where applicable) F
Appearance Clear, free of sediment Clear, free of sediment
and suspended matter and suspended matter
a
Colour ISO scale 2 1,5
a
Interfacial tension at 20 °C mN/m 35 35
a
Neutralization value (acidity) mg KOH/g ≤ 0,03 ≤ 0,03
b
Moisture mg/kg ≤ 20 ≤ 10
c
≤ 30
b
Dielectric strength kV/2,5 mm ≥ 40 ≥ 70
d
≥ 30 ≥ 60
a
Resistivity at 90 °C GΩ.m 60 60
a
Dissipation factor at 90 °C ≤ 0,015 ≤ 0,010
and 40 Hz – 60 Hz
a
Total fufural and furans mg/kg Not detectable Not detectable
3 3
Particle contamination and Particle size < 5 µm ≤ 32 000 particles/dm ≤ 32 000 particles/dm
a 3 3
fibres (per 100 mL) Particle size < 15 µm ≤ 4 000 particles/dm ≤ 4 000 particles/dm
a e
Polychlorinated biphenyl mg/kg 20 20
NOTE This table applies to new and repaired items of equipment, where repaired items have been
decommissioned and complies with table 8.
a
Ad hoc.
b
Compulsory.
c
Applies to class H only.
d
Applies to class F only.
e
See the latest national legislation.

4.5 Frequency of evaluating oil in service

4.5.1 Oil in service is subjected to various conditions, ranging from copious amounts of oxygen in
free-breathing equipment, to very high temperatures in heavily loaded equipment, moisture
produced by the deterioration of the oil and the presence of cellulose, and possible leaks. All these
conditions will affect the properties of the oil, rendering regular in-service assessment of the
condition of the oil imperative.
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NRS 079-1:2004 20

4.5.2 Insulating oil analyses or tests can be classified as follows:

a) characterization – which gives parameters that can be used to identify the oil;

b) determination of the ageing status – which gives parameters relevant to the ageing process;

c) determination of the dielectric status – which gives parameters used to determine the dielectric
safety margin and dielectric characteristics of the insulation spaces; and

d) determination of the degradation status – which gives parameters relevant to faults, failure and
wear in the equipment.

4.5.3 The classification of various analyses relating to the type of information gained from them is
shown in table 6.

Table 6 — Classification of various analyses

1 2 3 4
Characterization Ageing status Dielectric status Degradation status
a
Fluid composition Free radicals Water content DGA
a
Carbon types Visible spectrum Percentage saturation Extended DGA
Specific gravity Acidity Bound water Furanic compounds
Viscosity Saponification number Particle profile Phenols
Refractive index Inhibitor contents Breakdown voltage Cresols
Permittivity IFT Impulse strength Dissolved metals
a
PAH content IR spectroscopy Charging tendency Particle profile
Inhibitor content Dissipation factor Resistivity
Total sulfur Resistivity Dissipation factor
Corrosive sulfur Polarization index Insoluble sludge
PCB content Turbidity Gas tendency
a a
BTA content Insoluble sludge PD intention voltage
Sludge content
Oxidation stability
Furanic compounds
a
See 3.2.

4.5.4 The results shall be interpreted by experienced personnel. The interpretation should be
based on evaluation of trends, characteristic values for specific types of equipment, as well as
typical normal, fair or poor analysis results for a specific rating of specific equipment.

The analyses should be performed to assist with risk minimization and management, as well as life
cycle analysis. In order to prevent total loss of large or strategic equipment, an ideal situation would
be to do continuous monitoring of the equipment by means of on-line monitoring. However, this is a
concept that is at its infancy stage, is limited to certain analyses, and is still very costly where it
does exist. The frequency of analyses is thus dependent on equipment type, strategic nature,
voltage, construction and service conditions.

4.5.5 The frequency of testing should increase if certain analyses indicate degradation of the
insulation due to reasons such as overloading or faults.
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21 NRS 079-1:2004

4.5.6 To avoid continuous reference to a graph to correlate the moisture content and temperature,
moisture in the oil shall be normalized to 20 °C (this temperature is based on the fact that the
diffusion rate of moisture below 20 °C is too slow to reach equilibrium). This will only apply to
equipment that contains paper insulation.

The correction factor can be calculated as follows:

f = 2,24e (-0,04ts )

where

f is the correction factor;

ts is the oil sampling temperature, in degrees celsius.

NOTE This formula is not applicable in the case of temperatures below 20 °C.

In the case of temperatures below 20 °C, a limit of ≤ 10 ppm moisture applies. If a more accurate
interpretation is required, the water solubility of that specific oil will be used and the percentage of
water saturation can be calculated from that.

4.5.7 The recommended frequency of insulating oil analyses on electrical equipment (sampling
frequency per classification) is shown in table 7.

Table 7 — Recommended frequency of insulating oil analyses on electrical equipment

1 2 3 4 5 6
Classes D, E,
Condition Class O Class A Class B Class C
F, G and H
After commissioning 48 h after, 48 h after, 48 h after, 48 h after, Special request
routine tests 1 week after, 1 week after, 1 month after, 1 month after,
(test set 1) 1 month after, 1 month after, 3 months after 6 months after
3 months after 3 months after
a
Routine tests 6 monthly 6 monthly to 6 monthly to Yearly Special request
a
(test set 1) yearly yearly
Assessment tests Yearly Every 2 to Every 2 to Every 3 to Special request
(test set 2) 3 years 3 years 5 years
Special investigations Special request Special request Special request Special request Special request
(test set 3)
NOTE These frequencies refer to a normal routine test programme and if any of the properties indicate
significant deterioration, these periods should be shortened accordingly.
a
For practical reasons, some owners of electrical equipment may decide that their equipment is not
included in this classification. Routine monitoring programmes may vary depending on economical
feasibility studies, but should not exceed a three year interval for this type of equipment.

4.6 Evaluation of oil in service

It is almost impossible to compile a set of regulations that will be applicable to all equipment. Some
equipment is more tolerant of unfavourable conditions, where others will be very sensitive. It is
always recommended to take a second sample, before taking action, in order to ensure that the
results obtained are in actual fact a true reflection of the state of the electrical equipment. The
recommended limits and actions for oil in service are shown in table 8.
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NRS 079-1:2004 22

Table 8 – Recommended limits and actions for oil in service

1 2 3 4
Analysis Class Recommended action limits Recommended action
Breakdown voltage, O and A < 60 Resample and identify any trend.
kV/2,5 mm B < 50 Recondition oil by means of
filtration
F < 40
C < 30
Moisture content, mg/kg or O and A > 10 Resample and identify any trend.
ppm (normalized to 20 °C) B > 15 Recondition oil by means of
filtration or purification (or both)
F > 25
C > 30
Acidity, mg KOH/g oil O and A > 0,10 Resample and identify any trend.
B > 0,15 Recondition oil by means of
regeneration if IFT, colour and
C > 0,20 sludge also deteriorate
Furanic analysis, mg/kg per O and A Increase of > 0,05 and This process cannot be rectified.
year DP < 300 Conditions such as high
B and C Increase of > 0,05 and temperature, overloading and high
DP < 250 oxygen content should be avoided.

Colour and appearance O and A Not clear and free of visible Resample and identify any trend.
B and C contamination Recondition oil by means of
regeneration if IFT, acid and sludge
F also deteriorate.
Dielectric dissipation factor O and A > 0,1 Resample and identify any trend.
at 90 °C, 40 Hz to 60 Hz B and C > 0,2 Recondition oil by means of
regeneration.
Sediment and sludge O and A Sediment or precipitable Resample and identify any trend.
sludge present Recondition oil by means of
B and C Sediment or precipitable regeneration if IFT, colour and acid
sludge present also deteriorate.

Interfacial tension, O and A < 22 Resample and identify any trend.

mN/m at 20 °C B and C < 22 Recondition oil by means of
regeneration if acid, colour and
sludge also deteriorate.
Particle contamination per O and A Particle size > 5 µm: 32 000 Recondition oil by means of
100 mL Particle size > 15 µm: 4 000 filtration.
B and C Particle size > 5 µm: 130 000
Particle size > 15 µm: 16 000
a a
Polychlorinated biphenyl, All > 20 Decontaminate and regenerate
mg/kg or ppm during repair, and reuse in same
equipment. Reclassify after
3 months.
NOTE Classes D, E, G and H will only be tested on inception and after repair; no intrusive testing will be
performed.
a
See the latest national legislation.
 This standard may only be used and printed by approved subscription and freemailing clients of the SABS.

23 NRS 079-1:2004

GLOSSARY
containment
prevention of the spreading of oil spill

energizing
soaking
off load
when service voltage is being applied

explosion
situation that occurs when electrical equipment is ruptured as a result of an electrical fault

filtered oil
purified oil
polished or reconditioned oil
oil that has been filtered to improve the dielectric strength as well as decrease the moisture and
particulate content

flushing
action of rinsing a drum or sample container with an approximate volume of 10 % of hot finished
product

off-site
site, road or property that does not belong to the owner of a particular item of electrical equipment

PCB contaminated oil

oil, including oil in electrical equipment that has a measurable PCB concentration of 20 ppm or more
but less than 500 ppm

reclassifying
reducing (or increasing) the PCB concentration or contamination levels, thereby changing the PCB
classification of electrical equipment

recommission
returning the item of equipment to the network after having been out of service for an extended
period

restricted access area

area duly declared as such and demarcated for purposes of control

special request tests

group of tests required for investigative purposes

temporary PCB storage area

area specifically designed for the temporary storage of PCB or PCB items that comply with all
statutory requirements and are licensed or approved in writing by the relevant government
department

NOTE Also includes transit areas.

topping-up
action of correcting the oil level as specified by the manufacturer

weep area
area where no free running oil is visible, but is damp with oil

NOTE It could be an area where dust accumulates and the effective loss of oil is not evident.
 This standard may only be used and printed by approved subscription and freemailing clients of the SABS.

NRS 079-1:2004 24

Bibliography
Standards
IEC 60422, Supervision and maintenance guide for mineral insulating oils in electrical equipment.

IEC/TC10, IEC 60422 (Ed. 3), Supervision and maintenance guide for mineral insulating oils in
electrical equipment.

SANS 290, Mineral insulating oils – Management and handling of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs).
(In course of preparation.)

SANS 10140-5, Identification colour marking − Part 5: Coding of containers for carrying lubricants
and associated fluids.

SANS 10229, Packaging of dangerous goods for road and rail transportation in South Africa.

Other publications
NRS 054, Power transformers.

Nynas. Transformer oil handbook. Available from World Wide Web: <http://www.nynas.com>.

SOKOLOV, V. and BASSETTO, A, et al. Transformer fluid – A powerful tool for the life manage-
ment of an aging transformer population. Available from World Wide Web:
<http://www.bmengenharia.com.br>.

© Standards South Africa