What happens when a power transformer blows?

Failed transformers can be extremely dangerous and should only be handled by an experienced technician. A blown transformer can often result in fires or downed power lines containing large voltages which can easily cause electrocution.

What happens when a transformer is on fire?

The Consequences of Fire Once a rupture has occurred, air rushes into the tank and the oil explodes resulting in a blast of intense radiation scattering flaming oil, steel shrapnel, gaseous decomposition products, solid insulation, and molten conductor material onto the surrounding area.

How do transformers explode?

The most common reason why transformers explode and burn is accidents caused by lightning strikes. Lightning strikes can often damage the wiring and transformer equipment. Other extreme weather conditions such as strong winds and rains can cause trees to fall on transformers, causing explosions.

How do you put out a fire in a transformer?

The extinguishing agent is fine spray of water (water mist of fogging). The blanketing or smothering effect keeps the oxygen away from the fuel. Class C – Fires in electrical equipment. The extinguishing agent must be non-conducting (powder, carbon dioxide, vaporizing liquid (foams or water sprays at safe distance).

Why do potential transformers burst?

When flooded with too much electricity, the sudden surge can cause a transformer explosion. Mineral oil, in turn, combusts explosively and rockets transformer scything into the air. All it takes is a trigger, a corroded or faulty wire, and the circuits surge will get ahead of the breaker.

What can cause a transformer to explode?

Causes of transformer explosions could include: 1 Lightning strikes 2 Overheating 3 Wear and corrosion 4 Damage to the electrical system anywhere along the line 5 Failed safety devices and power surges 6 Foreign objects or animals getting into the transformer 7 Moisture More

What should you do when a transformer blows?

The most important thing to remember when a transformer blows is to not approach it. Failed transformers can create a variety of other hazards and anyone who is not a certified and experienced service person should keep their distance.

Do you need to report a transformer failure and power outage?

It is likely that the electrical provider already knows about the transformer failure and electrical outage, but it is always useful to provide any additional information to them. After the outage has been reported, it is important to stay safe until the power for your home or business comes back on.

Why do we use transformers to supply electricity?

The electricity supplied by electrical lines from a city’s power grid to neighbourhoods is extremely powerful, making it unfit to transmit directly into homes and businesses. Transformers are responsible for stepping down the voltage so that it is suitable for use.