Artificial intelligence enhanced online condition monitoring of On-Load tap changers in power transformers based on electrical signature

In the current global energy context, electrical power grids play a key role in the energy transition, by ensuring a stable and uninterruptible power supply. Among the most critical assets in the power grid, power transformers play an important role, among other things, in regulating voltage levels. This is possible through the On-Load Tap Changer (OLTC), a complex mechanical component that allows for voltage regulation under load, without interruption of power flow. Due to its mechanical nature and intensive use, it is the most failure-prone component, making OLTC failures one of the leading causes of transformer stoppages, often causing significant grid operational disruptions and financial losses. Traditional maintenance techniques typically fail to detect incipient faults. Considering…