Fluorescent fiber optic temperature sensor winding tube transformer winding temperature measurement

For optimal results, FJINNO’s fluorescence fiber optic sensors are typically installed during the transformer manufacturing process. The sensors are carefully positioned between winding layers at locations predicted to experience the highest temperatures (hotspots). The fiber optic cables are then routed to the exterior of the transformer tank through specially designed feedthrough assemblies that maintain oil sealing integrity.

For existing transformers, retrofit installation can be performed during scheduled maintenance or rewinding operations. The non-conductive and small form factor of our sensors enables installation with minimal impact on the transformer’s electrical characteristics. FJINNO provides detailed installation guidelines and technical support to ensure proper sensor placement and performance.

FJINNO’s fluorescence temperature sensing technology utilizes the temperature-dependent properties of rare earth fluorescent materials. The operating principle involves:

1. Excitation: A light source sends a pulse of wide-spectrum light through the optical fiber to the sensor tip containing rare earth fluorescent material
2. Absorption and Emission: The fluorescent material absorbs the excitation light and emits fluorescent light with specific spectral characteristics
3. Temperature Correlation: As temperature changes, the emission characteristics (such as decay time or spectral distribution) of the fluorescent material change in a precisely measurable way
4. Measurement: The sensing instrument analyzes the returned light signal to determine the exact temperature at the sensor tip

This method provides highly accurate temperature readings without electrical components at the measurement point, ensuring complete immunity to electromagnetic interference and electrical hazards.

FJINNO’s fluorescence fiber optic temperature sensors are designed to be virtually maintenance-free throughout their operational lifetime. The sensors have no moving parts, no electrical components that can degrade, and are not subject to calibration drift that affects conventional sensors.

The only maintenance considerations are:

• Periodic inspection of the external fiber optic connections and cable integrity during routine transformer maintenance
• Cleaning of optical connectors if signal degradation is detected (simple procedure using standard fiber optic cleaning tools)
• System verification checks as part of standard transformer testing procedures

The inherent stability and durability of the fluorescence sensing technology ensures reliable operation for decades, matching or exceeding the service life of the transformer itself.

Yes, FJINNO’s fluorescence fiber optic temperature sensors are designed for straightforward integration with existing transformer monitoring systems. Our signal processing units offer multiple communication interfaces including:

• RS485 with Modbus RTU/TCP protocol support
• Standard 4-20mA analog outputs
• Ethernet connectivity
• Relay outputs for alarm functions

These interfaces ensure compatibility with SCADA systems, DCS platforms, transformer monitoring packages, and standard control equipment. The temperature data can be incorporated into existing transformer health monitoring programs, allowing for comprehensive condition assessment without requiring replacement of your current monitoring infrastructure.

The ROI for implementing FJINNO’s fluorescence fiber optic temperature sensors typically comes from several key areas:

1. Extended Transformer Life: Direct and accurate hotspot monitoring enables better thermal management, potentially extending transformer life by 10-20%
2. Optimized Loading: Precise real-time temperature data allows for safe dynamic loading, potentially increasing transformer capacity utilization by 15-30% during peak demand periods
3. Failure Prevention: Early detection of developing thermal issues can prevent catastrophic failures, with avoided failure costs typically exceeding the entire monitoring system investment
4. Maintenance Optimization: Accurate condition data enables transition from time-based to condition-based maintenance, reducing maintenance costs while improving reliability
5. Downtime Reduction: Minimized unplanned outages through proactive detection of thermal anomalies

For critical transformers, the investment typically pays for itself within 1-3 years, with additional benefits accumulating throughout the extended service life of the transformer.