ABB & Oktogrid launch transformer monitoring solution

ABB Electrification Service and Danish start-up Oktogrid have launched a new digital monitoring solution for power and distribution transformers.

Known as ABB Ability Asset Manager for Transformers (TRAFCOM), the solution aims to modernise outdated electrical grids, thus helping industries to manage increasing power demands efficiently. This collaboration between ABB Electrification Service and Oktogrid is expected to support enhanced performance, reliability, and availability of transformers.

The TRAFCOM sensor is designed for ease of installation, requiring no screws or tooling. Instead, it attaches magnetically to the transformer and can be installed within 15 minutes. This allows for rapid data transmission to the cloud, thereby reducing maintenance downtime. The system functions independently of the type, make, and age of transformers, offering real-time monitoring capabilities via a unified interface as part of a comprehensive asset management system.

Mahmoud Abdelkhalek, Global Product Manager at ABB Electrification Service, commented, "We know there are many electrical network transformers out there, which have never been monitored in 15-20 years, due to the high costs and complexity of installing sensoring technology. ABB Ability Asset Manager for Transformers overcomes these barriers as a simple and cost-effective way to modernise the grid."

The TRAFCOM offers a 4-in-1 data measurement capability, including temperature and humidity, surface temperature, magnetic field, vibration, acoustics, and partial electrical discharges. This cloud-based monitoring solution enables customers to understand a transformer's condition in real-time, facilitating early detection of anomalies, prevention of failures, and optimisation of maintenance schedules.

Abdelkhalek added, "Rising energy consumption and the need to generate more cost-effective power stresses the electricity network and brings increased risk, but understanding how the transformer is performing means that plant and operational managers can plan and improve their processes with confidence."

Furthermore, the shift towards digitalisation optimises the safety and efficiency of aging equipment. This includes reducing asset carbon emissions and improving power performance, stability, and availability.

Golam Sadeghnia, CEO of Oktogrid, highlighted the importance of the solution in relation to sustainability in industries: "As industries double-down on their sustainability mandates, greater measurement capabilities are required to inform and shape their decarbonisation strategies. Through our partnership with ABB, we've been able to create a solution that eliminates this transparency gap as we take pivotal steps toward a sustainable and resilient energy future."

TRAFCOM is marketed beyond utilities and is also suitable for industries ranging from manufacturing to commercial real estate, data centres, and more. ABB has already seen implementations of this solution among customers in Finland and Spain, including one of continental Europe's largest hospitals and a major multinational steel group.