What are WTI and OTI?

Winding Temperature Indicators (WTI) and Oil Temperature Indicators (OTI) are essential parts of a transformer that help determine its owner about the longevity of the device and predict any near-failures of the same.

One of the most common breakdowns in the transformer occurs due to the failure of oil-paper insulation. The gauges help monitor the temperature of these materials and thus understand if failures are possible.

To get the best temperature readings, the gauges must be properly calibrated regularly every few months. Still, with proper upkeep, a time arrives when the indicators lose accuracy and break down.

Where to get these from?

In such scenarios buying new high-quality Winding Temperature Indicators and Oil Temperature Indicators is the best option. Like most of the transformer spare parts, buyers will find several instruments in the market at different price points.

Users must buy whatever suits the transformer specifications and ensure that the quality of the product is maintained. Buyers must purchase these products from reliable sources who deal in large transformer spare parts.

To get good quality temperature indicators, customers can buy them from Equitel Power. It is a transformers spare parts dealer in Kolkata. On the company’s website, clients will find products of industry standards at very affordable prices for the transformers.

The need for an expert

Buying the new temperature indicators is not the hardest part of the process of replacing the devices. It is the process of actually installing the gauges in the transformer. To show the complexity involved let us show how the Winding Temperature indicator is connected.

● Winding temperature indicator (WTI) consists of a sensor bulb placed in the oil-filled pocket in the transformer tank top cover. The bulb is connected to the instrument housing by means of two flexible capillary tubes. One capillary is connected to the measuring bellow of the instrument and the other to a compensation bellow.

● The measuring system is filled with a liquid, which changes its volume with rising temperatures. Inside the instrument is fitted a heating resistance which is fed by a current. This current is proportionate to the current flowing through the transformer winding.

● There are several points where the device needs to be connected and several gauges that need to be properly calibrated before the device can start. The same is the case for an oil temperature indicator. In fact, without proper calibration, the readings can be erratic and not help the caretakers avoid a failure.

All the above reasons clearly show the need for professionals who have prior experience in installing these meters. In the experienced hands of an engineer, all the safety precautions are maintained and all the lines are connected for safe operation.

Therefore, with expert guidance and a high-quality indicator, the transformers can be kept usable for a long time.