Solution: Enhancing Grid Reliability & Reducing Costs: The Advanced CIT Approach

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We propose deploying state-of-the-art ​Combined Instrument Transformers (CITs)​​ with integrated ​condition monitoring sensors​ for critical parameters including temperature, gas density/pressure (where applicable), and partial discharge (PD). This instrumentation is embedded within the unit itself, providing direct, real-time insight into its operational health and the stresses it experiences.

​Key Operational & Maintenance Advantages:​​

1. ​Real-Time Health Intelligence:​​ The CIT solution transcends traditional measurement functions. The embedded sensors continuously monitor core health indicators, providing a comprehensive view of the unit's condition – thermal performance, insulating medium integrity (SF₆ or alternative), and critical insulation degradation through PD detection.
2. ​Edge Intelligence & Actionable Data:​​ An ​embedded processing unit​ within each CIT performs ​local data analysis. This transforms raw sensor readings into actionable ​Health Indices​ (e.g., thermal stress level, gas density trend, PD activity severity). Only these processed, high-value diagnostics are transmitted via the ​digital output​ (e.g., IEC 61850-9-2LE, IEC 61869), minimizing communication bandwidth needs compared to streaming raw sensor data.
3. ​Predictive Maintenance Optimization:​​ Utilizing ​maintenance algorithms specifically designed for the unique electro-mechanical and thermal stresses inherent to the combined CIT structure, the solution predicts potential failures before they occur. These algorithms correlate sensor data with CIT-specific failure modes (e.g., abnormal heating at connection points, moisture ingress affecting measurement accuracy, evolving PD indicating internal insulation flaws).
4. ​Transformation to Condition-Based Maintenance:​​
• ​Eliminate Unnecessary Checks:​​ The solution enables a dramatic reduction in ​routine manual inspections and intrusive checks. Maintenance is performed solely ​when necessary, driven by actual condition indicators and predictive insights, not arbitrary schedules.
• ​Minimize Unplanned Outages:​​ By proactively identifying developing issues early, costly ​unplanned outages​ due to sudden CIT failure are significantly mitigated. Intervention occurs during planned maintenance windows.
• ​Remote Diagnostics Service Model:​​ We offer a comprehensive ​remote diagnostics service model. Expert analysis of the transmitted Health Indices and trends can be performed offsite by utility engineers or the manufacturer. This enables:
• Precise assessment of CIT health without physical site visits.
• Prioritization of maintenance activities based on actual asset criticality and risk.
• Provision of specific, actionable maintenance recommendations.
• Potential for manufacturer support agreements leveraging deep product expertise.

​Operational & Maintenance Benefits Summary:​​

• ​Reduced Downtime:​​ Minimized unplanned outages through predictive warnings.
• ​Optimized Maintenance Costs:​​ Elimination of unnecessary routine checks; targeting of resources to assets requiring genuine attention.
• ​Enhanced Grid Reliability:​​ Increased confidence in primary measurement and protection systems, supporting overall system stability.
• ​Improved Safety:​​ Reduced need for manual inspections near high-voltage equipment.
• ​Lifecycle Asset Management:​​ Data-driven insights support informed decisions on asset refurbishment, replacement, or life extension.
• ​Reduced Total Cost of Ownership:​​ Lower maintenance expenditure, fewer outage costs, and extended asset life.