Insulating Oil Services
Oil Reclamation - A STARK Oil Reclamation Treatment restores oil quality properties, thereby extending the serviceable life of the mineral oil and the reliable life of the transformer. An Oil Reclamation Treatment utilizes fuller’s earth equipment and a vacuum degasifier. The oil in the transformer is pumped through both apparatus during which the oil is heated, filtered through fuller’s earth, degassed and returned directly to the transformer. The reclamation process removes contaminants and moisture from the oil and sludge from the interior surfaces of the transformer. Reclaiming will slow the aging rate of the oil, thereby extending the life of the paper insulation.
Retro-filling - The fundamental function of this treatment is to replace the existing transformer oil of low quality, with new or reclaimed oil of acceptable quality. The current oil is drained from the transformer into a storage tank. The transformer is, then, filled with new oil using a vacuum-filling technique. Retro-filling a transformer is an efficient method of removing contaminated oil and is ideal when little down-time can be afforded. If, however, oil quality properties have deteriorated to the point where acidic sludge is being formed, a Retro-fill Treatment is not recommended.
Dehydration - Moisture within a transformer can lead to premature aging, can increase the rate paper decay and lead to the dielectric failure in extreme cases. A STARK Dehydration Treatment will reduce the moisture content of transformer oil and windings. A dehydration treatment can be conducted via a hot oil dry-out or a high vacuum dry-out.
Degasification - A Degasification Treatment is often conducted on a unit that has had oil removed or added during the course of installation, maintenance or repairs. In addition, a Degasification Treatment is used to reduce dissolved combustible gases caused by internal electrical faults and overheating. The STARK degasifier is specially designed for processing transformer oils and is preserving the integrity of transformer insulation system.
Vacuum-filling - Vacuum-filling a transformer is used primarily in two situations: 1) when a transformer is initially commissioned; or 2) when a transformer repair exposes the core and coils. Vacuum-filling ensures that no dissolved gas is present within the insulation system.
Re-inhibit Treatment - A Re-inhibit Treatment will restore oxidation inhibitor to effective levels. Maintaining oxidation inhibitor levels is an important component of proactive transformer maintenance. Oxidation inhibitor can and will extend the serviceable life of the mineral and maximize maintenance budgets.
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