12:00 pm 6:00 pm registration information desk...
TRANSCRIPT
Agenda is subject to change.
Sunday, January 31, 2016
12:00 PM – 6:00 PM Registration & Information Desk Open
Monday, February 1, 2016
7:00 AM – 6:00 PM Registration & Information Desk Open
7:00 AM – 8:00 AM Attendee Breakfast
8:00 AM – 8:10 AM Welcome & Introduction
David Zabetakis, President
Doble Engineering Company
David Zabetakis is President of Doble Engineering Company, a subsidiary of ESCO Technologies. Mr.
Zabetakis was General Manager of Aclara Technologies’ Software Group where he was responsible for
leading the development and deployment of Smart Grid software applications globally. Previously Mr.
Zabetakis provided management consulting services throughout the energy vertical including acting as the
temporary CEO for North American Power Partners, a demand response provider. He was Senior Vice
President of CURRENT Group where he oversaw the business development efforts. Before joining CURRENT
Group, Mr. Zabetakis was President and Chief Operating Officer of Pepco Energy Services where he oversaw
its retail business focusing on the sale of electricity, natural gas and a variety of energy‐related products. Mr.
Zabetakis has served in a variety of leadership positions in gas and electric distribution over the last 28 years.
He served on the first Peer Review Board for President George W. Bush for DOE/FEMP. Mr. Zabetakis earned
his MBA from Loyola College in Maryland and served in the Tactical Air Command of the US Air Force.
8:10 AM – 8:30 AM Opening Keynote ‐ Welcome to Nashville
Donald Hill, Vice President Engineering
Nashville Electric Services
Donald R. Hill, II is Vice President of Engineering at Nashville Electric Service (NES). He has 26 years of
professional experience in the electric utility industry. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical
Engineering from Tennessee Technological University, a Master of Business Administration degree from the
University of Phoenix, and is a registered Professional Engineer in the State of Tennessee. Mr. Hill has held a
variety of positions at NES including the areas of System Operations, Construction and Maintenance, and
Meter Services. He most recently served as Vice President of Power System Operations, a position held since
2012.
8:30 AM – 9:15AM Primer on Large Power Transformers
Mark Rivers, Vice President, Client Services
Doble Engineering Company
As we move forward into the 21st Century, the use of electricity by mankind has evolved into a necessary
staple of everyday life. But it wasn’t always this way. The advent of power transformers in today’s world is a
function of necessity, a product of ingenuity, and a marvel of technology. Power transformers are the key
element in the present system of electrical power distribution, and this system could not function without
transformers. Let’s take a look at why and how they were developed.
Mark Rivers received his BS in Electrical Engineering from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst,
Massachusetts and a MBA at Nichols College in Dudley, Massachusetts. Since 1979 he had been employed by
at Doble Engineering Company as a Principal Engineer consulting on electric power equipment insulation
testing and maintenance. He has been active on the IEEE and Doble Transformer and Circuit Bushing
Committees and has managed insulation software development. Currently Mr. Rivers is the Vice President of
Client Service Engineering. He has authored numerous papers in the area of Transformer and Circuit Breaker
Testing, and he was a technical contributor to the EPRI Guidelines for the Life Extensions of Substations.
9:15 AM – 9:30 AM Break
9:30 AM – 10:15 AM Video Presentation: “The Making of a Transformer”
Troy Kabrich, Vice President & General Manager – Services Division
SPX Transformer Solutions, Inc.
Professionally filmed and produced at the Waukesha transformer manufacturing facilities, this video
presentation and narrative will provide each attendee with a unique, up close tour of the inner workings of a
transformer manufacturing plant. This detailed presentation which will cover all aspects of transformer
manufacturing and construction and is ONLY AVAILABLE AT THE LIFE OF A TRANSFORMERTM SEMINAR.
10:15 AM – 11:15 AM Transformer Specification & Vendor Prequalification
Bill Griesacker, Transformer Consulting Engineer
Doble Engineering Company
An effective procurement system utilizes the preapproval process to identify suitable power transformer
vendors and a design review to establish an agreed upon design and procurement process. This preapproval
approval process should include factory qualification audits which are essential to confirm a manufacturer’s
ability to meet a purchaser’s requirements and expectations. The design review is performed to establish an
agreed upon design and to facilitate the procurement process. That the supplier is capable of meeting the
purchaser’s procurement specifications is confirmed during this process and the procurement process is
expedited by bringing the purchaser and supplier together on the technical details of the purchased
transformer.
Bill Griesacker is a member of Doble Engineering Company as a transformer engineer working on projects
that include factory inspections, condition assessment, design reviews, failure analysis and general
consulting. He previously worked for Pennsylvania Transformer Technology Inc., where he held various
positions including Engineering Manager. His work included high voltage insulation design, transient voltage
modeling of power transformer windings and various LTC and DETC switch development projects. Prior to
this, he was employed by the Westinghouse Electric Company, working on synchronous generator projects as
a member of the Generator Engineering Department. Mr. Griesacker started his career with Cooper Power
Systems in large power transformers and later worked in the Kyle Switchgear, Vacuum Interrupter
Department. He has earned a MS in electric power engineering from the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and
a BS in electrical engineering from Gannon University. Mr. Griesacker is an active member of the IEEE, PES
Transformers Committee where he holds positions in several working groups and subcommittees.
11:15 AM – 12:00 PM Transformer Design Process
Dharam Vir, Vice President of Engineering
SPX Transformer Solutions, Inc.
Transformers are tailor made products. The design process begins with understanding customer
requirements. Using optimization programs a quote design is provided with the lowest total owning cost
meeting customer requirements. During final design detailed dielectric, short circuit and thermal calculations
are performed to ensure the transformer meets performance and customer requirements. The mechanical
design of the tank, stiffeners, lifting and clamping structures enables the unit to withstand vacuum, pressure,
short‐circuit, seismic and shipping conditions. Design verification is done by performing routine and type
tests on the unit.
Dharam Vir joined SPX Waukesha in 2004 with over 25 years of service to the transformer industry in EHV
design, testing, production and plant operations. Prior to his current position, he held the positions of
Engineering Manager for the Waukesha plant and director of our EHV program, leading the team responsible
for the Waukesha facility expansion. Mr. Vir is an active member of the IEEE Transformers Committee and
holds a BSEE from University of Delhi India, a MS in Electrical Engineering from NIT Bhopal India and an MBA
in Finance and Marketing from Bhopal University India.
12:00 PM – 1:00 PM Lunch
1:00 PM – 1:45 PM Keynote
Tennessee Valley Authority
1:45 PM – 2:30 PM Transformer Manufacturing
Krzysztof Kulasek, Vice President of Engineering, Large/Medium Power Transformers, N.
America
ABB Inc.
Presentation will explain the step‐by‐step process of manufacturing work stations for the completion of a
transformer. Focus on the important aspects at each area from quality and reliability point of view. Selection
of raw materials and latest trends will also be addressed.
Krzysztof Kulasek is Vice President of Engineering for ABB Large and Medium Power Transformers in North
America located in Varennes, QC, Canada. While working in the transformer business for more than 20 years he
has been involved in new technology implementations in different factories as well as product and production
process development. Krzysztof’s areas of expertise include: transformer optimization, insulation design, SC
calculations, stray loss heating, process improvement and production optimization. As a member of the ABB global
technical team he contributes to R&D projects, technology and quality improvement initiatives and new engineers
training. Mr. Kulasek received his electrical engineering degree in 1993 at the Technical University of Lodz, Poland
from the faculty of Electrical Machines and Transformers. He has been an IEEE member since 2002.
2:30 PM – 3:15 PM Understanding Factory Testing Data – Part I
Mark Lachman, Director of Diagnostic Analyses
Doble Engineering Company
This presentation briefly describes significance of various electrical production tests with bulk of material arranged
around a typical test plan covering all final factory tests as per IEEE C57.12.00‐2010 and C57.12.90‐2010. For each
test, there will be an in‐depth discussion of each measurement, physics behind the measurement, setup and test
methodology and acceptance criteria.
Mark F. Lachman, Ph.D., P.E., has been with the power industry for over 30 years. In 2005, he joined Delta
Star in San Carlos, CA, where, as Test Manager, he was responsible for the test department operation. In
2011, he returned to Doble Engineering Company as Director of Diagnostic Analyses.
3:15 PM – 3:30 PM Break
3:30 PM – 4:15 PM Understanding Factory Testing Data – Part II
Mark Lachman, Director of Diagnostic Analyses
Doble Engineering Company
This presentation briefly describes significance of various electrical production tests with bulk of material arranged
around a typical test plan covering all final factory tests as per IEEE C57.12.00‐2010 and C57.12.90‐2010. For each
test, there will be an in‐depth discussion of each measurement, physics behind the measurement, setup and test
methodology and acceptance criteria.
Mark F. Lachman, Ph.D., P.E., has been with the power industry for over 30 years. In 2005, he joined Delta
Star in San Carlos, CA, where, as Test Manager, he was responsible for the test department operation. In
2011, he returned to Doble Engineering Company as Director of Diagnostic Analyses.
4:15 PM – 5:00 PM Shell‐Form Design & Construction
Juan Luis Thierry, Senior Transformer Consulting Engineer
Doble Engineering Company
The utility systems require a broad spectrum of equipment for the transmission of electric power from the
utility generating stations to distribution substations located near the industrial plants and residential areas.
Transformers are used in most of the power systems, as generator step‐up transformers; as transmission
autotransformers and as shunt reactors. Mobile substations are used by utilities for emergency or temporary
power sources. Power transformers are also used for special industrial application such as electric arc furnace
transformers which supply high current at low voltage power to arc furnaces used in steel making. The
purpose of this presentation is to identify the design and construction of the shell‐form transformers.
Juan Luis Thierry is a Senior Transformer Consulting Engineer for Doble Engineering Company concentrating
on transformer design review, factory inspections, factory acceptance tests, forensic analysis and condition
assessment. He applies his more than 30 years of power transformer experience in quality assurance,
manufacturing and electrical design for both transformer types, shell‐form and core‐form.
Prior joining Doble, Mr. Thierry held several positions at GE Bradenton Transformer Service Center. Prior to
GE, he was at Ohio Transformer Bradenton Remanufacturing Center in Florida where he worked in the
electrical design of the remanufacture of shell type three‐phase transformers up to 1000 MVA and single‐
phase transformers up to 600 MVA, in voltage class up to 525 kV and 1675 kV BIL. He initiated the
manufacture of new shell transformers back to USA in the Bradenton facility, designing both the mechanical
and electrical designs for three‐phase transformers up to 800 MVA and single‐phase transformers up to 200
MVA, in voltage class up to 525 kV. He designed more than 85 shell type transformers during his tenure in
Bradenton, Florida. Before coming to the USA, Mr. Thierry worked in IEM‐Westinghouse outside Mexico City
where he held several positions including Chief Design Engineer, Design Engineer, Manufacturing Chief and
QA Auditor. He worked in the electrical design for new and remanufactured transformers in both types of
core construction, core‐form and shell‐form.
Mr. Thierry received his BS in Electrical and Mechanical Engineering from the National Autonomous
University of Mexico (UNAM) where he graduated with honors and received the “Gabino Barreda Medal”
granted by the UNAM for the best GPA of his class. He is a member of the IEEE Power Energy Society Power
Transformer Subcommittee and member of the IEEE Standards Association. Mr. Thierry is a member of the
U.S. National Council of the International Council on Large Electric Systems as well as a member of the
American Society of Mechanical Engineers.
5:00 PM – 5:30 PM Ask the Experts Panel
6:00 PM – 9:00 PM Welcome to Nashville Reception & Networking Event
All are welcome to attend Doble’s Welcome to Nashville Reception & Networking Event. Sample some great local foods, enjoy a drink with colleagues, and relax in a casual atmosphere.
Tuesday, February 2, 2016
7:00 AM – 6:00 PM Registration & Information Desk Open
7:00 AM – 8:00 AM Attendee Breakfast
8:00 AM ‐ 8:30 AM Autotransformers
Waldemar Ziomek, Senior Global Expert ‐ Power Transformers & High Voltage
Insulation
PTI Manitoba Inc.
When the primary and secondary voltages are obtained from the same winding, or from two windings which
are galvanically connected, such a transformer is called an autotransformer. The autotransformer requires
less turns than a two‐winding transformer. The presentation will focus on fundamentals, design and
applications of autotransformers. It will start with basic concept and typical winding arrangements. Next, the
voltage variation will be addressed through presentation of different tap winding arrangement in the unit.
Magnetic field distributions and resulting impedance at different tap positions will be shown. The selected
problems of insulating system will be discussed (e.g. end fed vs center fed HV lead bring out, stresses in the
end insulation). Examples of the lightning impulse voltage distributions for different winding arrangements
will be shown.
Dr. Waldemar Ziomek works as a senior expert ‐ power transformers and high voltage insulation, for PTI
Manitoba Inc, Canadian manufacturer of power transformers. In 2013‐2015 he worked for CG Power
Systems, an international T&D equipment company, as a global senior expert. Till 2013 he was employed by
CG Power Systems Canada Inc (formerly Pauwels Canada Inc) as Manager of Engineering. He started with
Pauwels in 1997 as an electrical designer, then in 1999 as an electrical engineering manager, and since 2003
as manager of engineering. Since 2001 he is also an adjunct professor at The University of Manitoba.
8:30 AM – 9:00 AM Mobile Transformers & Substations
Marion Jaroszewski, Senior Consultant
Delta Star, Inc.
Types and applications of mobile substations are presented. A mobile versus power transformer is discussed with
emphasis on the temperature ratings and associated with it hybrid insulation system, short circuit and dielectric
strength, oil preservation and cooling system design. The mobile transformer and substation testing is discussed.
The essentials of specifications and trailer components are also addressed.
Marion Jaroszewski’s expertise is in design of transportable (mobile and portable) high temperature transformers
and substations as well as core type power, generator step up, auxiliary and grounding transformers,
autotransformers and voltage regulators. Mr. Jaroszewski graduated from Technical University of Lodz, Poland
with EE degree in 1973. His master thesis was Methods of Calculation of Optimal Dimensions of Active Parts of
Power Transformers. He began his professional career with Transformer Manufacturer ELTA in Lodz, Poland. He
moved to the United States in 1981 where he worked as a Transformer Engineer for Alamo Transformers in
Houston. In 1985 was hired as a Design Engineer by H.K. Porter in Belmont, California and two years later was
promoted to Senior Design Engineer position. In 1988, two H. K. Porter transformer plants in Belmont, CA and in
Lynchburg, VA were bought by employees and became again Delta Star, Inc. In 1995, Marion was promoted to
Manager of Engineering position. He was promoted to Corporate Technical Officer in 2004. The same year he was
promoted to San Carlos Operations Manager and to Vice President of the company in 2005. Marion retired at the
end of 2009 and currently works part time as a consultant and technical advisor for Delta Star, Inc. He is Life
Member of IEEE and active participant in Transformer Committee working groups.
9:00 AM – 9:30 AM Generator Step‐Up Transformer Overview
Enrique Betancourt, Technology Planning Manager
GE Prolec
Enrique Betancourt has a BS in Electromechanical Engineering from the Nuevo Leon State University and a
Diplomingenieur in Electrical Engineering (equivalent to the EE Master Degree in the US) from the Technical
University of Aachen (RWTH). He joined Prolec in 1989 as member of the technology development staff where he
made many technical publications and is co‐developer of several patents. He is currently in charge of developing
new technologies at Prolec GE. Mr. Betancourt collaborates with the Graduate School of Electromechanical
Engineering of UANL as Assistant Professor for High Voltage Engineering and Electromagnetic Transient Analysis.
He is member of several IEEE Transformer Committee Working Groups and is Mexico’s national representative for
CIGRE Study Committee A2 “Transformers.”
9:30 AM – 10:00 AM HVDC
Waldemar Ziomek, Senior Global Expert – Power Transformers
PTI Manitoba Inc.
Dr. Waldemar Ziomek works as a senior expert ‐ power transformers and high voltage insulation, for PTI Manitoba
Inc, Canadian manufacturer of power transformers. In 2013‐2015 he worked for CG Power Systems, an
international T&D equipment company, as a global senior expert. Till 2013 he was employed by CG Power Systems
Canada Inc (formerly Pauwels Canada Inc) as Manager of Engineering. He started with Pauwels in 1997 as an
electrical designer, then in 1999 as an electrical engineering manager, and since 2003 as manager of engineering.
Since 2001 he is also an adjunct professor at The University of Manitoba.
10:00 AM – 10:15 AM Break
10:15 AM – 11:00 AM Transformer Insulating Materials – An Introduction
Lars Schmidt, Technology Lead Center Manager – Insulation
ABB Inc.
This session offers an overview of power transformer insulation with a focus on cellulose based insulation
materials. Both raw materials and the conversion of cellulose to transformer board will be discussed including
environmental considerations. The main function of cellulose insulation in a power transformer will be covered
and the electrical, mechanical, and aging properties of pressboard, pressboard laminate and laminated wood will
be discussed.
Lars E. Schmidt is the Product Line Technology Manager for Transformer Insulation at ABB and located in Bad
Honnef, Germany. He is responsible for the development of new insulation materials and manufacturing
processes since 2011. ABB produces transformer insulation in different factories including Sweden, India, and
Germany. Lars joined ABB Corporate Research in 2006 and worked in the field of polymer based medium and
high voltage insulation. He has a background in Material´s Science and holds a PhD from the Swiss Federal
Institute of Technology, Lausanne.
11:00 AM – 12:00 PM Transformer Cooling Fundamentals
Craig Stiegemeier, TRES Technology Director
ABB Inc.
Jeff Cooper, Regional Manager
Unifin
This introductory presentation will provide an overview of pumps, coolers, fans, unit uprating, US and
International standards, ancillary and auxiliary systems, thermal constraints, ambient conditions, loading,
dynamic modeling, design limitations, leak repairs, and maintenance.
Losses in transformers are inevitable. Electromagnetic losses reflect as heat and consequently as elevated
temperatures due to thermal resistance. High temperature accelerates aging of insulation paper; the
Arrhenius equation shows that the life of a transformer is reduced by a factor of two with 8ºC rise in
temperature. The transformer dissipates heat through all three modes of heat transfer mechanisms ‐
conduction, convection and radiation. The predominant mode of cooling is convection. Both radiators and
coolers depend primarily on convection for heat dissipation. When is one preferred over the other? So how
is the temperature controlled in new transformers with environmentally more friendly oils that are more
viscous?
The second part of the presentation will address cooling system maintenance. With temperature control
being crucial in newer transformers, heat dissipation becomes very important. However, cooling system
performance, with or without moving mechanical equipment, deteriorates with age. Even systems without
oil‐pumps or fans can fail due to weathering, rusting and fouling. How do we evaluate the health of the
cooling system? Technology has improved with time, so what optimized solutions are available?
Craig Stiegemeier is the Director of Technology and Business Development for ABB’s North American Transformer
Remanufacturing and Engineering Services (TRES) organization. He is responsible for developing effective
processes supporting condition evaluation, assessment tools and life extension solutions for utility and industrial
users of power transformers. Craig began his career 36 years ago as a development and design engineer for large
shell‐form transformers for Westinghouse in Muncie, Indiana. He also has project management experience for the
US Navy as well as technical and commercial management for ABB’s transformer components business. He led the
ABB TrafoStar winding production improvement processes and was commercial operations manager for the St.
Louis power transformer operations before moving into transformer services in 2004.
Jeff Cooper is Regional Manager at Unifin. Prior to joining Unifin Mr. Cooper was employed at Westinghouse
Electric Corp in their Power Transformer & Circuit Breaker After‐Market Services Group and at ABB in Power
Transformer Marketing and in Utility Field Sales. He holds and International B.S. Mechanical Engineering from
Pennsylvania State University.
11:00 AM – 12:00 PM Proposed IEEE GIC Guide & Upcoming NERC Documents on Geomagnetic
Disturbance Mitigation
Jim McIver, Principal Applications Engineer
Siemens
Jim McIver has 40 years of experience in the North American electric power industry. Prior to Siemens' acquisition
of VA Tech, he was VA Tech's Technology Director and now serves as Principal Application Engineer. While at
Nevada Power, he managed design, procurement and maintenance of transformers, breakers and switchgear. As a
GE Senior Application Engineer, he specified phase shifters, provided forensic analysis of transformer field failures
and developed gas‐in‐oil diagnostics for sealed‐tank, network transformers. Mr. McIver is member of Eta Kappa
Nu, IEEE Transformer Committee, and is Professional Engineer in the State of New York. He earned his MSEE from
Rensellaer Polytechnic and is a New York state registered P.E.
12:00 PM – 1:00 PM Lunch
1:00 PM – 1:45 PM Transportation & Rigging
Ian Withrow, Nuclear National Account Manager
Barnhart Crane & Rigging
The transportation and rigging of a transformer is an important part of the procurement process. In today’s market
many of the transformers purchased include delivery to the pad as part of the purchase contract. We will discuss
the various modes of transportation (Sea, Inland Water, Rail, and Truck) and detail advantages and limitations of
each mode. The second part of the presentation will focus on rigging methods and acceptable practices. In recent
years, replacement of existing equipment often involves short outage windows in high hazard environments with
tight available work space. The discussion will provide details on methods to change out these components as well
as case studies demonstrating how this work can be accomplished in a safe manner.
Ian Withrow earned his electrical engineering degree from Christian Brothers University in Memphis, TN and
currently is a nuclear heavy lift and heavy transportation expert for Barnhart. Mr. Withrow began his career
with Barnhart in Project management working with the Nuclear Services Division. Mr. Withrow has managed
multiple major projects in the nuclear market including a coveted Specialized Carriers and Rigging Association
Rigging Job of the Year in 2012. Mr. Withrow has removed and replaced almost every component in a
nuclear facility including but not limited to feed water heaters, reactor heads, steam generators, moisture
separator reheaters, and transformers. His talents have allowed him to work for major utilities such as
Entergy, FENOC, Exelon, and Duke.
Currently Mr. Withrow resides in Southaven, MS with his wife Brea and his two children, Josephine and
Juniper.
1:00 PM – 1:45 PM High‐Temperature, Liquid‐Immersed Transformer Design using Advanced Materials
Jim McIver, Principal Applications Engineer
Siemens
Use of advanced insulation materials allows high‐temperature liquid immersed transformers to meet a variety of
specialty applications. Requirements such as higher temperature operation, increased fire/flashpoint or
biodegradable insulating fluids can be met with solid and liquid high‐temperature materials. During this session
we will look how these specialty transformers are designed, built, and tested. In addition, the standards and
specifications needed to request high‐temperature operation will be reviewed.
Jim McIver has 40 years of experience in the North American electric power industry. Prior to Siemens' acquisition
of VA Tech, he was VA Tech's Technology Director and now serves as Principal Application Engineer. While at
Nevada Power, he managed design, procurement and maintenance of transformers, breakers and switchgear. As a
GE Senior Application Engineer, he specified phase shifters, provided forensic analysis of transformer field failures
and developed gas‐in‐oil diagnostics for sealed‐tank, network transformers. Mr. McIver is member of Eta Kappa
Nu, IEEE Transformer Committee, and is Professional Engineer in the State of New York. He earned his MSEE from
Rensellaer Polytechnic and is a New York state registered P.E.
1:45 PM – 2:30 PM Transformer Operations & Loading
Phillip Prout, Principal Maintenance Engineer
National Grid, USA
This session identifies key areas associated with loading Power Transformers designed for a 65 C rise with
thermally upgraded insulation. The information was gathered from multiple standards, loading guidelines
and actual case studies. The document can be referred to when specifying new transformers, evaluating
factory thermal testing, rating transformers using thermal programs and assist in operating the transformers
while in service. Highlights of a few case studies to be explored are: confirming dryness of insulation prior to
leaving factory, evaluating factory thermal test results and calculating loading limitations for system control
are just a few highlights.
Phillip Prout is a principal maintenance engineer at National Grid USA in the Substation O&M Services Group
located in Massachusetts. He is a 1986 graduate of Wentworth Institute of Technology with a BSME degree. Mr.
Prout provides technical support to substation field operations and substation engineering. He has more than 30
years of experience in substation maintenance and design. When not working, he enjoys spending quality time
with his wife and children.
1:45 PM – 2:30 PM EMI Diagnostic Testing: Electric Plant Reliability for HV Power & Industrial Sites
James Timperley, Principal Engineer
Doble Engineering Company
Since 1980 electromagnetic interference (EMI) Diagnostics has provided information on the electrical and
mechanical condition of several thousand mission critical assets in power plants, heavy industry, petrochemical
and marine locations. This on‐line technique has been applied to many sizes and designs of generators, motors,
transformers, switchgear, power cables and bus. This session provides case studies of electrical and mechanical
deterioration identified with EMI Diagnostics. Several methods for data analysis are offered.
James E. Timperley is currently a Sr. Principal Engineer with Doble Engineering. He has 45 years’ experience in the
power industry with an emphasis on diagnostic testing, large electrical rotating machinery and isolated phase
bus. Jim has authored more than 80 technical papers in the areas of applied research, advanced insulation
systems, diagnostic testing, failure investigation, inspecting, maintaining and specifying rotating machinery for
IEEE, Doble, ASME, CIGRE, EPRI, DEIS, PCIC and the American Power Conference. His work has involved root cause
analysis of equipment failures, insulation deterioration mechanisms and developing repair procedures for use at
petrochemical and industrial sites as well as in fossil, nuclear and hydroelectric power plants.
Mr. Timperley is a Life Fellow of the IEEE and received the 2006 DEIS Dakin Award for the development of EMI
Diagnostics for power equipment. He is active in IEEE standards committees, holds a BSEE from Oklahoma State
University and is a registered Professional Engineer in the State of Ohio. He has completed Basic Offshore Safety
Induction & Emergency Training (BOSIET) for working on off shore rigs.
2:30 PM – 2:45 PM Break
2:45 PM – 4:15 PM Transformer Bushing Fundamentals
Sebastien Riopel, Product Manager
Electro Composites / Hubbel Power Systems, Inc.
David Geibel, Technical Director
ABB, Inc.
This bushing fundamentals session will cover bushing theory, design, function, terminology, standards, and
different insulation technologies. Advantages, disadvantages, and differences in the types of OIP and composite
bushings available on the market today will be discussed. Attendees will have a clear understanding of installation,
maintenance, and testing procedures, and the challenges that may be encountered when working with OIP and
composite bushings. A thorough understanding of the details needed when planning a bushing replacement
project will be presented.
Sebastien Riopel is Product Manager for Electro Composites, an affiliate of Hubbell Power Systems, Inc. He has
been with Electro Composites since 1999, and has been involved in product engineering and testing, sales and
marketing. Mr. Riopel received his B.S. in Civil Engineering from the University of Ottawa, obtained a Masters
degree in Mechanical Engineering from L’École Polytechnique de Montréal, and is a registered professional
engineer in the Province of Québec.
David Geibel started out at General Electric Co. in Pittsfield MA over four decades ago and became a
transformer components engineer. GE sold him to Westinghouse and Westinghouse sold him to ABB. Mr.
Geibel has been the Engineering Manager for the ABB Alamo transformer components plant for about the
past decade and have recently transitioned over to Technical Director. He graduated Magna Cum Laude from
the University of Pittsburgh with a BSEE and holds several transformer components patents.
4:15 PM – 5:30 PM Load Tap Changer Fundamentals
Bernhard Kurth, General Manager
Reinhausen Manufacturing, Inc.
David Geibel, Engineering Manager
ABB, Inc.
Energized Load Tap Changers (LTCs), De‐Energized (DETC), Transmission Class, Distribution Class, Resistive,
Reactive, and so very much more. This is by far one of the most impressive presentations of the week, and it
is jam‐packed with information about history, usage, various designs, operations, maintenance, gas analysis,
repairs, failures and components. Representatives of ABB and Reinhausen will be on hand to make
presentations and then open the floor for discussion, and most importantly, to field your questions. This
extremely practical presentation will allow the attendees to ask about all types of subjects related to the
everyday operations, loading, and maintenance of transformer tap changers.
Bernhard Kurth, was born in Quito, Ecuador on June 29, 1960. He received a M.S. degree in Electrical
Engineering from Rhineland Westphalia Technical University at Aachen, Germany in 1987. Mr. Kurth has
been around On‐Load and Off‐Circuit Tap Changers for his entire career. He has been President of
Reinhausen Manufacturing in Humboldt, TN since its foundation in 1991. Before joining Reinhausen
Manufacturing, Bernhard worked as Area Sales Manager at Maschinenfabrik Reinhausen GmbH in
Regensburg, Germany, being then transferred as President of Reinhausen Canada Ltd. to Toronto, Canada in
1990.
David Geibel started out at General Electric Co. in Pittsfield MA over four decades ago and became a
transformer components engineer. GE sold him to Westinghouse and Westinghouse sold him to ABB. Mr.
Geibel has been the Engineering Manager for the ABB Alamo transformer components plant for about the
past decade and have recently transitioned over to Technical Director. He graduated Magna Cum Laude from
the University of Pittsburgh with a BSEE and holds several transformer components patents.
5:30 PM – 8:00 PM Industry Expo & Reception
Wednesday, February 3, 2016
6:00 AM – 6:00 PM Registration & Information Desk Open
6:00 AM – 8:00 AM Attendee Breakfast
7:00 AM – 8:00 AM What’s in the Box?
(Designed for 3‐Day Transformer Maintenance Program Seminar Attendees)
Troy Kabrich, Vice President & General Manager – Services Division SPX Transformer Solutions, Inc.
Power transformers demand a higher degree of care during installation. The large investment in the
transformers and their importance to the power system demonstrates the need for careful field preparation
for service. This presentation will highlight recommendations for the proper receipt, inspection, field
assembly, oil processing, and acceptance testing of large liquid immersed power transformers rated 10 MVA
or greater or with high voltage windings rated 69 kV and above. Basic transformer field installation topics and
standards will be reviewed to include inspections, equipment requirements, assembly and field dry out
techniques, determination of insulation moisture concentration, provisions for cold ambient temperature
processing, vacuum filling processes, and acceptance testing.
Troy Kabrich is currently the Vice President & General Manager for the Goldsboro, NC Manufacturing Plant
and the Service and Components Division of SPX Transformer Solutions, Inc. During his twenty‐five years of
industry experience, Mr. Kabrich has held positions as a Plant Manager, Director of Field Services, Repair
Operations Manager, Field Service Engineer, and Sales Engineer. He has published articles for T&D World and
Utility Automation and Engineering magazines, was author of Installation and Maintenance Chapter of Third
Revision of the Electric Power Transformer Engineering Handbook, and is a frequent contributor to industry
training programs. Troy has a Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering from Rose‐Hulman
Institute of Technology.
8:00 AM – 9:30 AM Transformer Assembly, Oil Processing & Commissioning
Troy Kabrich, Vice President & General Manager – Services Division SPX Transformer Solutions, Inc.
This presentation will highlight recommendations for the proper receipt, inspection, field assembly, oil
processing, and acceptance testing of large liquid immersed power transformers. Transformer field
installation processes and standards will be reviewed to include impact recorders, equipment requirements,
assembly operations, field dry out techniques, determination of insulation moisture concentration, provisions
for cold ambient temperature processing, vacuum filling processes, and acceptance testing.
Troy Kabrich is currently the Vice President & General Manager for the Goldsboro, NC Manufacturing Plant
and the Service and Components Division of SPX Transformer Solutions, Inc. During his twenty‐five years of
industry experience, Mr. Kabrich has held positions as a Plant Manager, Director of Field Services, Repair
Operations Manager, Field Service Engineer, and Sales Engineer. He has published articles for T&D World and
Utility Automation and Engineering magazines, was author of Installation and Maintenance Chapter of Third
Revision of the Electric Power Transformer Engineering Handbook, and is a frequent contributor to industry
training programs. Troy has a Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering from Rose‐Hulman
Institute of Technology.
*8:00 AM – 8:45 AM Corrosive Sulfur
Paul Griffin, Vice President Global Professional Services
Doble Engineering Company
Corrosive sulfur oil is known to have caused problems in electric apparatus and accessories. The problem is
complex and continued research is necessary. However, some significant improvements in understanding
have led to better tools to detect possible problems and help avoid them. Two test methods for oils have
been developed that are useful for detecting potential problems based on different failure modes. In‐service
oils can be tested and evaluated based on the application. Mitigation methods such as passivation are being
evaluated.
Paul Griffin is Doble Engineering Company’s Vice President Global Professional Services. Mr. Griffin has been
with Doble since 1979 and prior to his current role has held various positions including Laboratory Manager
and Vice President of Laboratory Services. Since joining Doble, Mr. Griffin has published over 50 technical
papers pertaining to testing of electrical insulating materials and electric apparatus diagnostics. He is a Fellow
of ASTM and a member of Committee D‐27 on Electrical Insulating Liquids and Gases. He was formerly ASTM
Subcommittee Chairman on Physical Test, ASTM Section Chairman on Gases in Oil, and the Technical Advisor
to the U.S. National Committee for participation in the International Electrotechnical Commission, Technical
Committee 10, and Fluids for Electrotechnical Applications. Mr. Griffin is a member of the IEEE Insulating
Fluids Subcommittee of the Transformer Committee.
8:45 AM – 9:30 AM Transformer Design Reviews
Bill Griesacker, Transformer Consulting Engineer
Doble Engineering Company
An effective procurement system utilizes the preapproval process to identify suitable power transformer
vendors and a design review to establish an agreed upon design and procurement process. This preapproval
approval process should include factory qualification audits which are essential to confirm a manufacturer’s
ability to meet a purchaser’s requirements and expectations. The design review is performed to establish an
agreed upon design and to facilitate the procurement process. That the supplier is capable of meeting the
purchaser’s procurement specifications is confirmed during this process and the procurement process is
expedited by bringing the purchaser and supplier together on the technical details of the purchased
transformer.
Bill Griesacker is a member of Doble Engineering Company as a transformer engineer working on projects
that include factory inspections, condition assessment, design reviews, failure analysis and general
consulting. He previously worked for Pennsylvania Transformer Technology Inc., where he held various
positions including Engineering Manager. His work included high voltage insulation design, transient voltage
modeling of power transformer windings and various LTC and DETC switch development projects. Prior to
this, he was employed by the Westinghouse Electric Company, working on synchronous generator projects as
a member of the Generator Engineering Department. Mr. Griesacker started his career with Cooper Power
Systems in large power transformers and later worked in the Kyle Switchgear, Vacuum Interrupter
Department. He has earned a MS in electric power engineering from the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and
a BS in electrical engineering from Gannon University. Mr. Griesacker is an active member of the IEEE.
9:30 AM – 9:45 AM Break
9:45 AM – 11:15 AM Transformer Field Testing
Robert Brusetti, Director, Client Service Engineering
Doble Engineering Company
Financial implications and complex of the asset are the primary reasons power transformers are viewed as
the most critical component in the electric power system. Field‐testing provides the engineer with a group of
tools to assess the condition of the transformer and to identify problems and the level of criticality. Each test
provides data to support decisions about transformer. The early detection of problems can minimize the
repairs involved and mitigate catastrophic failures. The scope of this presentation is to consolidate all the
current techniques for field testing transformers and identify each test’s true capability.
Robert Brusetti received his BS in Electrical Engineer degree from the University of Vermont in 1984 and a
MBA from Boston College in 1988. He has been employed at Doble Engineering Company for twenty years
and currently serves as Director of Client Service Engineering. Prior to his present responsibility he has held
positions as Product Manager and Field Engineer. Mr. Brusetti is a licensed Professional Engineer in the state
of Massachusetts.
11:15 AM – 1:45 PM Industry Expo & Lunch
1:45 PM – 2:45 PM Insulating Fluid Basic: Dissolved Gas Analysis, Oil Sampling, LTC DGA & Oil Analysis
Lance Lewand, Director Insulating Materials Laboratories
Doble Engineering Company
This presentation will provide information on insulating fluids, focusing on various characteristics and the most
common analytical tests performed on insulating fluids to assess the condition of the insulating fluid and health of
the transformer. Important aspects of the sampling process for insulating fluids will be covered to help ensure
that a representative sample of the bulk insulating fluid is obtained.
1:45 PM ‐ 2:45 PM Iso‐Phase Bus Circulating Current and Overheating Issues
Gary Whitehead, Power Project Specialist
Electrical Builders Inc.
The purpose of this presentation is to educate the audience in the evolution of the design of isolated phase
bus, and how circulating currents affect those different designs. Circulating currents can cause havoc with an
isolated bhase bus system, and the basic design of the bus will dictate the best practices that have been
identified for analysis, inspection, cleaning and maintenance of those bus systems. The isolated phase bus
systems have largely been ignored, forgetting it is the only system critical component in the power plant that
does not have redundancy. With a renewed focus on the systems, many plants do not realize how different
designs can cause different problems. This presentation will provide information on the different isolated
phase bus designs and how circulating currents create different problems with those designs.
Gary Whitehead is the Power Projects Specialist at Electrical Builders Inc. (EBI). Since coming to EBI his main
focus has been working on projects such as new installation, retrofits as well as design improvements and
value engineering on existing systems. Mr. Whitehead has attended numerous colleges studying industrial
and architectural drafting and design. He has over 7 years of experience in this industry working for
AZZ/Calvert, a designer and manufacturer of Iso‐Phase systems as an Engineering Technical Coordinator and
also in their Installation Services as a Designer/Quotation Specialist and Project Manager.
2:45 PM – 3:30 PM Workforce Automation & Transformer Test Data Management
Barry Rogen, Engineer
Doble Engineering Company
Maintenance personnel have faced a number of challenges when using test equipment which require either
external controllers or laptop computers. These challenges include IT firewall issues, communication port conflicts
and other general connectivity barriers. These challenges result in a disproportionate amount of time spent on
preparing for a test instead of actually testing and often no consistency in the manner in which data was
collected. Some electric utilities recognized that they needed to make changes to develop a consistent work
process that could be implemented company‐wide. This paper will chronicle the steps taken to identify and
eliminate redundant and manual steps through automation, with the end result being an increase in productivity
and data integrity.
Barry Rogan is an Engineer focusing on implementations. He joined Doble in September 2015 after 38 years with
electric utilities in the eastern United States focusing on substation maintenance and standards. He managed
several maintenance management systems from desktop applications to Maximo, SAP and Cascade. Most of these
applications required mobile hardware technology, starting with PDAs thru todays rugged tablet devices.
2:45 PM – 3:30 PM Cable Diagnostic Testing
Kent Brown
KWBrown Consulting
Cables in distribution systems, industrial facilities and generating stations are vital and robust assets which have
historically required minimal attention. However, as these assets age, failure can lead to lost productivity, long
customer or component outages, and large unanticipated capital outlays. In order to avoid such surprises, users
naturally turn to test and monitoring options. The number of available test options can be daunting and not all are
applicable to every insulation system or to every neutral design. This session will provide the user with an overview
of the criteria for identifying the optimum method or methods for evaluation their system.
Kent W. Brown is the owner of KWBrown Consulting in Chattanooga, TN. He has over 40 years of utility experience
and has been active in the IEEE's Insulated Conductor Committee since the 1980s. He is a Life Fellow of IEEE,
having been recognized for in 2014 for leadership in standards development for design, testing, and utilization of
electrical equipment for the nuclear power industry. Mr. Brown holds BS and MS degrees in Electrical Engineering
from the University of Louisville.
3:30 PM – 3:45 PM Break
3:45 PM – 4:45 PM Transformer Oil Processing & Field Vacuum Dry‐out
Greg Steeves, General Manager
Baron USA, LLC
Transformer life depends mainly on the condition of the liquid & solid insulation. The liquid insulation can be
maintained and restored with purification & reclamation. The solid insulation however is difficult to maintain
directly. Various technologies and techniques are available to maintain the insulation (both directly & indirectly).
Appropriate selection and application of transformer dry‐out technologies and techniques can extend transformer
life, reduce downtime and save money. These technologies and their field applications will be discussed during this
presentation.
Greg Steeves is General Manager and principle engineer of Baron USA, LLC. Baron is the premier provider of
transformer dry‐out and dielectric fluid processing systems for OEM’s, utilities and field service organizations
worldwide. Greg joined Baron USA as Engineering Manager in 1987. He is currently responsible for managing the
daily operations and overseeing the application, engineering design and manufacturing of oil purification
equipment, vacuum chambers, vapor phase processing and transformer dry‐out equipment. He earned his degree
in Mechanical Engineering from Tennessee Technological University and is licensed in the state of Tennessee.
3:45 PM – 5:30 PM Advanced Insulating Fluid Topics
Isoparaffinic Transformer Oils
Chris Armstrong, Sr. Technical Services Advisor
Petro‐Canada Lubricants Inc.
Catalytic dewaxing technology has led to the development of isoparaffinic
transformer oils with desirable physical and chemical properties. Severe refining
processes produce isoparaffinic oil that has excellent additive response and is
virtually corrosive‐sulphur free. These properties make isoparaffinic base oils
ideally suited for transformer oil applications in various operating environments.
The technologies available for the production of isoparaffinic transformer oils
will be discussed in this presentation, with an emphasis on factors that have led
to technological improvements in the industry.
Chris Armstrong is Sr. Technical Services Advisor for Petro‐Canada Lubricants’
Luminol Transformer Fluid product line. He has worked for Petro‐Canada for
over 20 years and has held positions in Refinery Operations, Sales, Research &
Development and Technical Services. Currently as a Sr. Technical Services
Advisor, he is a voting member of ASTM Committee D27 on Electrical Insulating
Liquids and Gases. He holds a Material Engineering Technology diploma from
Mohawk College and his CLS certification from the STLE.
Naphthenic Mineral Insulating Oil Manufacture, Additives & Storage
Jimmy Rasco, Vice President – Global Base Oil Technology
Ergon, Inc.
This portion of the panel will cover Naphthenic Mineral Insulating Oil Manufacturing,
Additives and Storage. Naphthenic oils have been used as transformer insulating oil
successfully for many years. They have heat transfer and low temperature properties
that make them well suited for this application. This paper will review some history of
naphthenics use as insulating oil and manufacturing processes that refiners employ to
produce them. It will review how refining impacts the type, quality and performance
of the oils in transformers along with different additives that can impact performance.
It will also look at transformer oil is stored to ensure its integrity for delivery.
Jimmy Rasco has responsibility for quality and development of naphthenic and
paraffinic base oils. He has worked with Ergon for 20 years and has 40 years of
experience in Quality Control and Technical Support of petroleum refined products.
He has a BS degree in Chemistry from Alcorn State University. Jimmy is a member of
the American Chemical Society, CIGRE, IEEE, IEC, ANSI TAG to IEC TC 10 and ASTM
where he serves as Chairman of Subcommittee 27.01 for Mineral Oil. He has served
on numerous Maintenance Teams and Working Groups for International
organizations governing transformer oil.
Synthetic Esters
Russell Martin, Chief Technical Manager
M&I Materials
Synthetic ester‐based fluid has been used for nearly four decades in a myriad of
different transformer and non‐transformer applications due to its robust nature. This
fluid can be used in almost every type of transformer, from distribution to large
power, breathing, sealed and high temperature. It stands up to the most rigorous
conditions and has a proven track record in applications such as compact rolling stock
transformers.
Dr. Russell Martin is the Chief Technical Manager for Dielectric Fluids at M&I
Materials, Manchester, where he leads the Technical Development and Application
Innovations for ester transformer fluids. He holds a PhD in Chemistry and is a Fellow
of the Royal Society of Chemistry. He contributes to various CIGRE, IEEE, ASTM, IEC
and BSI technical & standard groups and was awarded the CIGRE technical Committee
Award for outstanding contribution by the A2 (Transformer) division in 2010, and the
IEC 1906 Award in (2011) for updating the standard IEC 61099 (Synthetic Esters for
Electrical Purposes).
Natural Esters
David Bingenheimer, Global Technology Manager
Cargill Industrial Specialties
Natural ester insulating liquid has been applied within transformers for 20 years,
and is being specified in distribution through power transformers at an
accelerated rate. Based upon the numerous distribution, small, medium and
large power transformers operating since the mid 1990’s, through the effective
energization and operation of a 420 kV power transformer in 2013, utilities on
several continents are specifying natural esters as their preferred insulating
liquid. In total, there are one million natural ester transformers operating
worldwide without a reported fire or environmental incident. A discussion of
the similarities and differences of natural esters compared to mineral oil,
including the enhanced capabilities that are being effectively integrated into
transformer designs, will be presented. Laboratory studies and field operation
data indicates that natural ester liquids are a robust and reliable solution for
transformers in all climate conditions and maintenance policies. Natural esters
are standardized by both IEEE and IEC.
David Bingenheimer, Global Technology Manager – Dielectric Fluids – Cargill
Industrial Specialties, has a diverse professional background including 25 years of
technical, marketing, and product management experience. Mr. Bingenheimer has
led the dielectric fluids activities at Cooper Power Systems and Cargill for the past
decade. He has authored and presented technical papers and training modules
related to the application and validation of dielectric fluids in transformers, and has
actively participated in numerous industry conferences and seminars. He received his
Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering from Marquette University and
Master of Business Administration Degree in International Management from the
University of Dallas.
4:45 PM – 5:30 PM Measuring and Locating Partial Discharge in Transformer in Service
Falk Werner, Sr. Field Engineer
Doble Engineering Company
Subject of the presentation is a transformer fleet PD assessment performed in the Caribbean in 2015.
Measurement approaches and findings are laid out covering HFCT, RFI and acoustic PD testing. As a result of
the assessment a transformer with defective cable L‐bows was identified. In order to prevent failure of the
equipment, those L‐bows were inspected and significant deterioration was found within the connection.
Falk Werner studied Electronics and Information Technology with a focus on Telecommunication and Signal
Processing at the University of Stuttgart in Germany. His final thesis was Location of Partial Discharges by
Means of Sensor Arrays. Mr. Werner has in‐depth knowledge of partial discharge (PD) diagnostics and
measurement methods on high voltage insulation systems. At Doble Lemke in Germany he co‐developed the
PD solutions range. Mr. Werner has several publications to his credit and is currently a Doble Power Services
Engineer at Doble Engineering Company focusing on partial discharge, diagnostics and solution development.
A German native, Mr. Werner speaks German, English and French.
5:30 PM – 6:00 PM Ask the Experts Panel
6:30 PM – 10:30 PM Evening at the Wildhorse Saloon Sponsored by SPX Transformer Solutions, A‐Line, Doble Professional Services, and Electrical Builder’s Inc. (EBI)
Gold sponsor SPX and bronze sponsors A‐Line, Electrical Builder’s Inc. (EBI) and Doble Professional Services,
invite seminar attendees to the world famous Wildhorse Saloon for a night filled with BBQ, Country‐Western
music, line dancing, and fun in the heart of Music City’s downtown. Companions and exhibitors may attend for a
fee of $75. Visit the Registration & Information Desk for additional information.
Thursday, February 4, 2016
7:00 AM – 6:00 PM Registration & Information Desk Open
7:00 AM – 8:00 AM Attendee Breakfast
8:00 AM – 10:00 AM Panel Group Presentations
Transformer Maintenance: Commonly Overlooked Items
Rick Youngblood, Principal Engineer
Doble Engineering Company
Maintenance is a widely varying topic when it comes to transformers. The common
list of items typically performed cover 90% of all transformers but it’s the 10% of the
items overlooked that can have the same catastrophic consequences. This paper is
intended to make the reader think about the lesser maintained items and add them
into the list of regularly performed maintenance and test tasks.
Rick Youngblood’s engineering career spans more than three decades. After
leaving active duty from the Air Force he joined Cinergy Corporation (then
known as Public Service of Indiana) as an entry level engineer. After receiving his
BSEE from Purdue University he was promoted to Project Engineer and then
Manager of Technical Services in their Northern Division responsible for
construction, maintenance and metering. After merging with Cincinnati Gas and
Electric and forming Cinergy Corporation, Mr. Youngblood became Senior
Engineer responsible for implementing their CMM System “Maximo” and
developing their condition‐based maintenance program. He went on to become
Supervising Engineer for Substation Services. In 2004 Mr. Youngblood joined
American Electrical Testing Company as Regional Manager of their Midwest
office. He obtained his NETA 3 certification and went on to perform
maintenance and testing in utility and industrial environments. He joined Doble
Engineering Company in 2010 as Principal Engineer in the Client Service group.
On‐Site Transformer Core Rewind
Cheryl Basel, GE Industrial Solutions – Repairs Senior Sales Manager
GE Energy Management
Cheryl Basel is a graduate of the Keiser University with Bachelor Degrees in Business
Management and Business Administration. She has worked for Ohio Transformer, SD
Myers, GE’s Bradenton repair facility and GE Industrial Solutions in roles of increasing
responsibility including Global Transformer Sales Leader for the transformer repairs
and services segment. Ms. Basell left GE for a Sales and Marketing role at Southwest
Electric Company, She returned to GE as the Repairs Senior Sales Manager for
Transformer Services in 2014. She has over 17 years of transformer experience
including manufacturing, and remanufactuirng of core form and shell form
transformers up to 1000 MVA, 525 kV, repairs and upgrades of transformers, field
service and failure/risk analysis.
Cooling System Maintenance for Transformers
Kevin Riley, Product Development Manager
Trantech Radiator Products
With temperature control being crucial in newer transformers, heat dissipation
becomes very important. However, cooling system performance, with or
without moving mechanical equipment, deteriorates with age. Even systems
without oil‐pumps or fans can fail due to weathering, rusting and fouling. How
do we evaluate the health of the cooling system? Technology has improved with
time, so what optimized solutions are available?
Kevin Riley is a Mechanical Engineer and certified Six Sigma Black Belt. He has been
with Trantech Radiator Products for 7 years and is the Quality and Product
Development Manager. Kevin has worked in the heat exchanger industry for over 10
years holding positions at Young Touchstone and Trantech within senior engineering
and operations for products as diverse as Cuprobraze, Fin and Tube and Plate
Radiator technologies. Kevin has also worked with Electric Utility and Generation
customers for over 12 years in the Fleet, Genset and T&D sectors. He currently works
on cooling systems development and components with OEM and utility customers for
new and replacement applications covering all types of transformers and equipment.
Before beginning his career in the private sector with Caterpillar, Mr. Riley served as
an officer in the United States Navy.
LTC Retrofit
Craig Stiegemeier, TRES Technology Director
ABB Inc.
For those who attended the Load Tap Changer Fundamental session on Tuesday, you
learned the basics of tap changers, including the differences between resistance and
reactance switching. Today’s next sessions in the advanced track on LTC Maintenance
will provide insight into the maintenance requirements for load tap changers. This
portion of the maintenance panel will investigate options when a tap changer has
reached the practical end of its service life. A brief look into the different types of
load tap changers and actual retrofit examples will be covered during the
presentation.
Craig Stiegemeier is the Director of Technology and Business Development for ABB’s
North American Transformer Remanufacturing and Engineering Services (TRES)
organization. He is responsible for developing effective processes supporting
condition evaluation, assessment tools and life extension solutions for utility and
industrial users of power transformers. Craig began his career 36 years ago as a
development and design engineer for large shell‐form transformers for Westinghouse
in Muncie, Indiana. He also has project management experience for the US Navy as
well as technical and commercial management for ABB’s transformer components
business. He led the ABB TrafoStar winding production improvement processes and
was commercial operations manager for the St. Louis power transformer operations
before moving into transformer services in 2004.
GSU On‐line Oil Leak Repair Case Study
Ali Naderian, Project Manager
Kinectrics, Inc.
This presentation describes a case study of repairing turret oil leak of several 500MVA
230kV GSU while they are energized. There are several large GSUs in one of largest
nuclear plants with the issue of oil leak at the turret. The units are critical and the
utility could not afford outage and was looking for a mid‐term solution (5 to 10 years)
before getting to a major overhaul. The presentation describes steps taken to the
project including review of a few available solutions, peforming Electric and Magnetic
Field Measurement at work zone, selecting reasonable solution: Turret Enclosure to
be sealed by injecting polymeric sealant, measurement, engineering, calculation,
design of repair material, simulation of electromagnetic and thermal using Comsol
Multiphysics FEM and fabrication of enclosures , installation,and testing. The project
conducted successfully and the turrets have been monitored periodically for possible
leaking.
Ali Naderian experience includes design and testing of switchgears and power
transformers for ISC and Siemens. He was co‐designer of a 900 kV cascade UHV
testing transformer. Since 2007 he has been project manager of high voltage
testing at Kinectrics Inc. (Formerly Ontario Hydro Research) since 2007 working
on diagnostics of power transformers and underground cables. He performs on‐
line and off‐line PD measurements for HV apparatus. His research interests
include partial discharge, dielectric frequency response, and frequency response
analysis. He is the co‐author of EPRI Underground Distribution Reference Book,
is a senior member of IEEE and an active member of IEEE Transformer
Committee.
8:00 AM – 9:00 AM Tap Changer Controls
David Aldrich, Regional Sales Manager
Beckwith Electric
David Aldrich, IEEE Senior Member, is the Application & Regional Sales Manager for the Central U.S. for Beckwith
Electric. He joined Beckwith Electric in 2012 with over 30 years of experience in nearly all aspects of electric power
systems. Prior to Beckwith Electric, Mr. Aldrich had management roles at Schneider Engineering, Origin Geo
Systems, Texas Power and Light/TU Electric (now Oncor) and TU Electric’s Distribution Information Systems. Mr.
Aldrich has published several papers and presented at various conferences related to electric power planning and
operation. He is very active in industry organizations, serving as president of local chapters of IEEE‐PES and TSPE.
9:00 AM – 10:00 AM Introduction to Transformer Protection
Ed Khan, Director of Protection Training & Research & Development
Doble Engineering Company
This presentation deals with the protection of a transformer against short circuits, through faults and several
other abnormal system conditions. As part of this presentation, application of transformers in a harmonic
environment will also be discussed. Transformers are very critical and expensive asset applied in a power
system. Hence, extreme care and attention should be paid to make sure that transformers are adequately
protected. Timely removal of transformers in the event of abnormal system condition is a deciding factor
between replacing or repairing a transformer.
Ed Khan is the Director of Protection Training and R&D at Doble Engineering. He has been with Doble for 7
years. At Doble, he had also worked as the Product Manager for the protection testing product line. Prior to
joining Doble, Ed had worked for several companies such as GE, Westinghouse, ABB, KEMA, SEL and others.
He has a very broad background in power systems and has performed system studies, relay application,
coordination studies, and equipment sizing for power plants. He has presented various courses and seminars
on protection, and harmonics both in US and overseas.
10:00 AM – 10:15 AM Break
10:15 AM – 11:00 AM Factory Repair
Pravin T. Khanna, Global Product Manager
ABB Inc.
In North America typical power transformer fleets are more than 40 years old. Many utilities are facing challenges
to keep the power transformer fleet reliable and are applying condition based maintenance programs to maintain
large fleet of transformers. When a power transformer fails, the options available for the end user are to replace
with a new transformer or repair or remanufacture the existing transformer. In this presentation we will discuss
options and advantages of doing a repair of transformer, what important points need to be considered during the
repair process. Two case studies will go into detail in covering major repairs conducted on important
transformers. One covers a GSU transformer where the transformer three phase windings were replaced along
with eliminating off load tap changer. The second highlights a HVDC repair where all coils were rewound and end
user were able to save time and money in the complete process.
Today with advanced design tools it is possible to identify the possible weakness on a 30 plus year old transformer
and improve the design and performance of the transformers during repair process. Thus, it is possible to achieve
and improve life of the transformer as new by improving design, applying today’s industry standards for short
circuit calculations and improve dielectric insulation system and more. In some cases by performing the design
study it is possible to upgrade the transformer power rating to meet additional demand for the station. On many
occasions the end user opts for repair option due to the time constraint in order to have transformer back on line
as soon as possible and also due to the civil infrastructure limitations. A repaired transformer ensures that
physical match up will be identical to the transformer that is removed from service.
Pravin Khanna is the Global Product Manager for Transformer Repairs for ABB’s Transformer Remanufacturing and
Engineering Services (TRES) organization based out of St. Louis, MO. He is responsible for developing effective
processes supporting transformer factory and onsite repairs. Pravin completed his electrical engineering from
Mumbai India and studied MBA In USA. He began his career 24 years ago as production engineer for large power
transformer factory in India. In 1996 Pravin joined a large Power transformer unit in Israel and worked as specialist
for large power transformers. Pravin joined ABB in year 2000 in Canada and was responsible for Small power and
larger power transformer . In 2006 Pravin moved to Saint Louis and joined ABB transformer services as repair
business manager for North America. Since 2010, Pravin is responsible globally for transformer repair services for
factory and onsite repair.
10:15 AM – 11:00 AM LTC Maintenance & Extending Maintenance Cycles
Jim McLean, Director of LTC Business
North American Substation Services
This presentation is centered on the maintenance of LTCs and what you can do to aid in extending your
maintenance cycles. It will cover items such as; filtration, coke formations, contact upgrades, contact alignment
and understanding your LTCs needs.
Jim McLean is the Director of LTC Business for North American Substation Services LLC. He has held key positions
in the service, sales and marketing areas for Reinhausen Manufacturing and Waukesha Electric Systems. He has
30 years of experience in the service and support of manufacturing, maintenance and field operations. He has16
years of experience in Field Service Management. He has traveled the United States, Canada, The Caribbean and
Europe as a computer programmer specializing in interface and communications. He is a training class developer
and instructor for LTC training classes where he has instructed over 120 classes and 950 students across the
United States and Canada. He has traveled to Venezuela to lead in a LTC failure analysis. Jims enjoys working with
youth sports and teaching proper techniques for football and basketball. He is the past President, V President and
Senior Division V President for Medina Football & Cheerleading League where he lead in the activities of 12 youth
league football and cheerleading teams. He has been a head basketball coach with the Boys & Girls Club of
America in North Carolina. He is an active board member of the local high school athletic booster club. Jim is
originally from North Carolina where he attended both Central Piedmont Community College and Gaston College.
11:00 AM – 12:00 PM Transformer Intelligent Condition Monitoring Solutions
Tony McGrail, Solutions Director, Enterprise & Technology Data Technology
G. Matthew Kennedy. Solutions Director, Enterprise & Technology Data
Technology
Doble Engineering Company
In this presentation we will look at aspects of transformer condition monitoring ‐ from the need to set goals and
defining relevant monitoring parameters through to communicating of data/information and the need to have a
predefined and agreed action plan. Intelligent condition monitoring can yield great benefits and we will discuss
and present ways and means to achieve those benefits.
Tony McGrail is Doble Engineering Company’s Solutions Director for Asset Management & Monitoring Technology, providing condition, criticality and risk analysis for utility companies. Previously Dr. McGrail has spent over 10 years with National Grid in the UK and the US; he has been both a substation equipment specialist, with a focus on power transformers, circuit breakers and integrated condition monitoring, and has also taken on the role of substation asset manager and distribution asset manager, identifying risks and opportunities for investment in an ageing infrastructure. Dr. McGrail is a Fellow of the IET, Chairman of the IET Council, a member of the IEEE, ASTM, CIGRE and the IAM, is currently on the executive committee of the Doble Client Committee on Asset and Maintenance Management, and a contributor to SFRA and other standards. His initial degree was in Physics, supplemented by an MS and a PhD in EE and an MBA. Dr. McGrail has a commitment to lifelong learning and is an Adjunct Professor at Worcester Polytechnic Institute, MA, leading courses in power systems analysis and distribution fundamentals. G. Matthew Kennedy is Doble Engineering Company’s Solutions Director: Enterprise and Data Technology, overseeing the complete software and cloud product vision of the company. During his time at Doble, Mr. Kennedy
has had leading roles in the innovation and development of products such as the M‐Series (M4, M5, M7), DTA, dobleARMS™ and dobleDATABASE™. With a keen interest in diagnostic technology, Mr. Kennedy has authored diagnostic analysis sections for international standards in addition to numerous papers, journal and magazine articles for the power industry. He holds a BS in Electrical Engineering from the University of California, Santa Barbara where he studied signal and digital signal processing. His post graduate studies continued with the US Navy: Nuclear Power School, University of Idaho in Electrical Power Engineering and Cornell University in Product Design and Development. He is a member of IEEE, IEC, USNC, and ISO. 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM LTC Maintenance Requirements and Steps for In‐Tank LTC
Bernhard Kurth, General Manager
Paul Shuttleworth
Reinhausen Manufacturing Inc.
Bernhard Kurth was born in Quito, Ecuador on June 29, 1960. He received a M.S. degree in Electrical Engineering
from Rhineland Westphalia Technical University at Aachen, Germany in 1987 and has been around On‐Load and
Off‐Circuit Tap Changers for his entire career. He has been President of Reinhausen Manufacturing in Humboldt,
TN since its foundation in 1991. Before joining Reinhausen Manufacturing, Mr. Kurth worked as Area Sales
Manager at Maschinenfabrik Reinhausen GmbH in Regensburg, Germany, being then transferred as President of
Reinhausen Canada Ltd. to Toronto, Canada in 1990.
12:00 PM – 1:00 PM Lunch
1:00 PM – 2:00 PM Transformer Fleet Health Assessments
Paul Griffin, Vice President Global Professional Services
Doble Engineering Company
Brett Stewart
Pepco Holdings Inc.
Paul Griffin is Doble Engineering Company’s Vice President of Global Professional Services. Mr. Griffin has
been with Doble since 1979 and prior to his current role has held various positions including Laboratory
Manager and Vice President of Laboratory Services. Since joining Doble, Mr. Griffin has published over 50
technical papers pertaining to testing of electrical insulating materials and electric apparatus diagnostics. He
is a Fellow of ASTM and a member of Committee D‐27 on Electrical Insulating Liquids and Gases. He was
formerly ASTM Subcommittee Chairman on Physical Test, ASTM Section Chairman on Gases in Oil, and the
Technical Advisor to the U.S. National Committee for participation in the International Electrotechnical
Commission, Technical Committee 10, and Fluids for Electrotechnical Applications. Mr. Griffin is a member of
the IEEE Insulating Fluids Subcommittee of the Transformer Committee.
1:00 PM – 5:00 PM Advanced Transformer Field Testing & Diagnostics
This advanced session expands on Wednesday’s session and delves into greater detail on the following
subjects with the experts from Doble.
Basic Insulation Theory (Cap/PF) Transformer and Bushings – Power Factor
& Capacitance
Robert Brusetti; Doble Engineering Company
Single Phase Exciting Current and Loss
Mark Lachman; Doble Engineering Company
Leakage Reactance
Robert Brusetti; Doble Engineering Company
SFRA
Mark Lachman; Doble Engineering Company
2:00 PM – 2:45 PM Mobile On‐Site Transformer Testing with Static Frequency Converters
Stefan Bergmann, Area Sales Manager
High Volt
Greg Lobo, Test Engineer
Mitsubishi Electric Power Products, Inc.
Stefan Bergmann studied electrical engineering at the Technical University of
Dresden, Germany. He received his academic degree (Dipl.Ing / M.Sc.E.E.) in
2007 following an apprenticeship as a power electronic technician. He was a
design engineer for power distribution systems in nuclear power plants at
AREVA NP GmbH (Erlangen, Germany) prior to joining HIGHVOLT Prüftechnik
Dresden GmbH in 2012.
Greg Lobo has been an Electrical Engineer since 2012 and has been employed as
a Test Engineer for high voltage power transformers by Mitsubishi Electric
Power Products, Inc. since 2013. In this role, Mr. Lobo is responsible for creating
test procedures based on customer specifications, conducting the transformer
tests according to applicable standards such as IEEE or IEC, and providing test
reports to customers. In 2012, he began his career with Smith Seckman Reid,
Inc., where he primarily worked in electrical engineering designs for new
construction projects such as schools, prisons, factories, hospitals and theaters.
2:45 PM – 3:00 PM Break
3:00 PM – 5:00 PM Panel Group Presentations: Transformer Risk Mitigation & Failure Analysis
Preventing or Avoiding Transformer Failures
Bill Bartley, Special Engineering Consultant
HSB
The insurance industry provides utilities and other owners with insurance
coverage for many different types of transformers and transformer
applications. The transformers vary in size, design, construction, age, and
operational environments. But regardless of the type or application, there are
some common key elements of risk mitigation plans that are imperative to the
long life of a transformer. Key elements of the plan can range from well‐known
maintenance practices to “expert” monitoring systems. This presentation will
discuss the key elements, from an insurer’s perspective.
William Bartley has over 40 years of experience with large electrical apparatus
found in utilities and industrial plants. He joined Hartford Steam Boiler in 1971
and established many of the HSB Engineering standards for electrical power
apparatus. In 2012, he retired from HSB, and currently serves as a special
Engineering Consultant. Mr. Bartley is a Registered Professional Engineer in
Connecticut, and an IEEE Life Fellow. He served for three years on the IEEE
Standards Board, and was Chair of Standards Coordinating Committee in the
Technical Council of the IEEE Power & Energy Society (PES). He is a Member of
the PES Transformers Committee, and was a Committee officer, and Chair of
their Standards Subcommittee.
Root Causes of Failures
Bill Griesacker, Transformer Consulting Engineer
Doble Engineering Company
Forensic examinations are conducted for a number of reasons; however, the end
goal is typically to determine the root cause of the failure. Often this
examination involves the review of historical operating conditions prior to the
failure and the disassembly of the failed transformer in search of supporting
evidence. Case studies will be presented.
Bill Griesacker is a member of Doble Engineering Company as a transformer
engineer working on projects that include factory inspections, condition
assessment, design reviews, failure analysis and general consulting. Mr.
Griesacker holds an MS in electric power engineering from the Rensselaer
Polytechnic Institute and a BS in electrical engineering from Gannon University.
He is an active member of the IEEE, PES Transformers Committee where he
holds positions in several working groups and subcommittees.
Forensic Decommissioning
Anne Bailey, Sales Manager
A‐Line E.D.S.
Each transformer recycling project is unique based on the transformer design,
location and circumstances for removal. This presentation will provide project
examples to showcase on‐site removal options and expectations as well as showcase
the specialized equipment available to aide in the detailed assessment of power
transformers. Project examples will include premature transformer failure
assessment as well as procedures for obtaining samples during routine transformer
replacement projects to aide in condition assessment initiatives.
Anne Bailey has been with A‐Line E.D.S. managing transformer recycling projects for
the past 10 years. She has experience contracting, evaluating and managing on‐site
transformer dismantling projects to provide turnkey services including the safe and
environmentally sound disposal of power transformers including specialty services for
forensic decommissioning.
Case Studies
Bill Bartley, Special Engineering Consultant
HSB
Risk Management during Maintenance Activities Using Internal or Outsourced
Resources
Don Dorris, Operations Engineer III
Nashville Electric Services
Don Dorris is Operations Engineer III over the Power Group for Nashville Electric
Service in Nashville, TN, involved in the power transformer specifications, factory
testing and failure teardown inspections. He oversees engineers and technicians
involved in installing, commissioning, operating, modifying, testing, analyzing and
decommissioning substations, analyzes test results on power transformers and circuit
breakers and recommends courses of action and develops and calculates the
condition assessments on the power transformers and circuit breakers. He also
develops testing and operating standards for NES Operations. He has been with NES
for 20 years and is a registered Professional Engineer in the State of Tennessee and a
member of the IEEE Power Engineering Society and Standards Society, active in the
IEEE Transformer Committee meetings. Mr. Dorris received his Bachelors degree in
Electrical Engineering at Memphis State University with a minor in Mathematics and
his Masters Course work in Electrical Engineering at Tennessee State University.
Mr. Dorris got his start in the US Navy where he worked as an Aviation Electrician and
then as an Aviation Electrical Instructor for US Navy & Marine personnel. He
transferred from the US Navy to the Tennessee Army National Guard and worked in
various capacities as Communications Officer at various levels. He retired from
Military Service in 2001 at the rank of Captain. He was also an Electrical Systems
Instructor for Northrup Grumman on the B2 Bomber and instructor of several courses
at San Diego Community College and ITT Technical Institute.
5:00 PM – 5:30 PM Ask the Experts Panel – Anything Transformer Related
OPTIONAL LABORATORY SEMINAR
Friday, February 5, 2016
7:00 AM – 8:00 AM Attendee Breakfast
7:00 AM – 4:30 PM Registration & Information Desk Open
8:00 AM – 4:30 PM Transformer Condition Assessment Using Laboratory Diagnostics
Paul Griffin, Vice President Global Professional Services
Lance Lewand, Director Insulating Materials Laboratories
Doble Engineering Company
This one‐day session provides students with a thorough understanding of how to assess the condition of
electrical insulating materials and transformers.
Dissolved gas‐in‐oil analysis – This is the single most important diagnostic test for transformers. This
presentation reviews how the test is performed, how to distinguish between normal gassing behavior and
problems, and how to evaluate trends. Practical case studies and examples are used to illustrate theoretical
concepts. Seminar participants will be quizzed (with class participation) on their understanding in diagnosing
12 cases.
Water in Transformer Oil – Assessing how dry a transformer is requires more than a water in oil test. Learn
how to assess the wetness of the transformer insulation system and why you need to know the operating
temperature at the time of sampling. This session discusses water migration in transformers and how water
affects the ability to overload them. Examples are provided.
Condition assessment of cellulosic insulation – The analysis of the condition of the paper insulation has
changed quite a bit in the past 10 years. Learn how the solid insulation ages and how to assess the condition
of the paper and pressboard insulation and its remaining life. Case studies are given to illustrate the
distribution of paper aging in transformers and how operation and maintenance can influence it.
Metals in oil – This presentation provides an understanding of the importance of metal‐in‐oil tests as a
diagnostic. To be able to use the information, the correct test must be specified – learn the difference
between dissolved and particulate metals and when to choose each test. Case studies are given.
Quality of new and service aged oils – Background information is provided on the properties of transformer
oil. The presentation includes how to specify and evaluate new oils, what tests to perform and how to
evaluate in‐service oils.
Aging characteristics of insulating materials ‐ Aging is discussed in sections on oil and paper which provides
information on how to increase the life of transformers. There are a number of factors that accelerate the
aging of the insulation system that can be controlled. This session provides information on when to reclaim
or replace oil and gives specifications for reclaimed oil.
Load tap changer and oil circuit breaker diagnostics – This presentation gives the latest information on
diagnostics for load tap changers (LTCs) and bulk oil breakers. Case studies are provided.
Sampling – The presentation discusses how to save money on your sampling program through proper
training and what common pitfalls to avoid. Proper sampling preparation, practices, and equipment are
given.