Transformer Repair Services

What Exactly Is a Transformer, & How Does It Work?

What’s a transformer? A transformer is a special type of electrical apparatus designed to convert one alternating current (AC) voltage to another. A transformer can be used to either step up or step down voltage, and both applications may be necessary for certain circuits and applications. Transformers help to distribute power at high voltage, and are also effective at stopping power down, so it can be used with 120- or 240-volt equipment.

How does a transformer work? A transformer actually has no moving parts; it’s an entirely static, solid-state device that works on the magnetic induction principle. A simple transformer includes two or more coils of insulated wire wound on a laminated steel core. Voltage introduced to the first (primary) coil magnetizes the iron core. This then induces a voltage in the output (secondary) coil. The change of voltage between the input and output depends on the turns ratio of the two coils themselves.

Common Issues & Failures with Transformers

If a transformer has no moving parts, there should never be anything to break down, right? Unfortunately, it’s not that simple. Faults can occur in a number of transformer parts or components due to a range of electrical, thermal, or mechanical stresses. Here are some of the most common issues:

Winding failure

Windings are one of the most important parts of a transformer, as these comprise the many coils of electrically conductive wires. Failures in the winding can occur due to electrical overloads, insulation breakdown, winding degradation from thermal or mechanical stress, etc.

Bushing failure

Bushes are insulating devices which provide a current path through the tank wall in a transformer. Bushing often includes a combination of paper and oil insulators, and these are materials that eventually degrade over time. Moisture infiltration, weakening of seals, or improper bushing maintenance can accelerate bushing failures.

Tap changer failure

The transformer tap changer serves to help regulate the voltage level by either adding or removing turns from the secondary winding. A small fault with the tap changer will result in the wrong power output. Old or burned-out capacitors can cause tap changer failure, as can overvoltage or failure to maintain the transformer’s oil.

Core failure

The transformer windings are wrapped around laminated steel cores in the middle. The core serves to concentrate the magnetic flux. A fault in the core can also cause faults in the windings. The core lamination can break down due to corrosion, dirty oil, or lack of transformer maintenance. If the lamination breaks down, the whole system becomes prone to overheating.

Tank failure

The transformer tank holds the oil needed for insulation and cooling, and also provides some needed structural reinforcement for the transformer apparatus. Environmental stresses like sun, precipitation, humidity, and corrosion can lead to a breach in the tank. Once the oil is lost, the transformer can overheat or break down rapidly.

Protection system failure

A transformer includes some built-in fault protection systems, which can include pressure relief valve circuitry, sudden pressure relays, surge protectors, and Buchholz protection. An issue with any or all of these protection systems leaves the transformer much more vulnerable to damage or breakdown.

Cooling system failure

Most industrial transformers also include some type of cooling system, typically involving cooling fans, water-cooled heat exchangers, and/or oil pumps. If the cooling system becomes compromised, then the transformer can overheat and even blow due to elevated gas pressures.

Transformer Repairs with AES

Maintaining a reliable power supply is a necessity for your industrial or commercial operations, and one essential component of that process is dependence upon needed transformers. If your transformer requires maintenance or repair, look no further than the team of service professionals at AES!

Here’s an overview of just some of the transformer repair services we provide:

• FREE initial inspection, thorough diagnosis, and repair quote
• We work with transformers of essentially any size, type, or design
• Troubleshooting and diagnosing of any errors or problems with your transformer
• Seal replacement and oil leak repair
• Vacuum oil treatment and oil drying services
• Corrosion and rust removal, welding work, and exterior paint work
• Immediate repair or replacement of any essential components
• Other maintenance measures for extending the service life of your transformer

Why Choose AES for Your Transformer Repair Services?

Since our founding in 1992, AES has paved a solid track record of successful repairs of transformers, along with industrial electronics and machinery of all varieties. We’re not just about keeping your essential equipment running, we’re also about benefiting your business bottom line. Here’s more of what sets AES apart:

Quick Turnaround Time

A quality transformer repair does take time, but with AES it will take no more time than is absolutely necessary! We offer a quick standard turnaround time of 8-10 business days for repair projects, but we can also deliver a RUSH turnaround time of just 1-3 business days, if that’s what your needs require.

Quality Repair Work

At AES, we still believe in old-fashioned work. What that means in simple terms, is that we do things right! We’re committed to providing exceptional quality of service with every repair project we complete for every client. We’ve been successfully servicing transformers for decades, and we know how to take care of yours, too!

Professional Repair Technicians

We know we can take care of your needs at AES. How do we know? Our team of repair technicians owns tons of relevant experience — we’ve worked on basically every type of transformer out there. Plus, we make a point of investing in regular training to expand our team’s abilities, so that we’ll be ready to serve your needs not just right now, but in the future as well.

Lower Cost = Smarter Solution

Why pay to replace an expensive transformer, when all that may be needed are some effective repairs? AES can take care of your needs and get your transformer back online. By partnering with AES, you’ll save valuable time & money, and also prevent lots of unnecessary frustrations & headaches.

The Best Repair Warranty!

And here’s one more convincing reason to partner with AES. Everyone says they’ll do good work for you, but sometimes all that amounts to is a bunch of talks. At AES, we stand behind everything we do by providing a 24-Month Limited Warranty! What does that mean? If a problem should arise during that time period which is deemed to be a repair workmanship issue, AES will provide follow-up repair service for you at NO extra charge! How’s that for exceptional service?

Connect with AES for Your Transformer Repair Services

Ready to get your transformer back online and working to its full potential? We can take care of that for you; AES has you covered! Reach out today at (866) 386-1001, and let’s start the conversation! We’re here to help!