Electricity generation and distribution industries require regular maintenance of their substations. Regular cleaning is necessary to prevent substations from failure due to contamination. Most transformers used are decades old and prone to rusting, which may cause further damage.

Maintenance solutions like substation painting are one of the most common solutions to prevent transformers from external corrosion. Additionally, it also helps extend the lifespan of the transformers, making them more efficient. The painting process requires only minimal investment and can be completed in a short period.

This article will help you understand the significance of painting electrical transformers as part of regular maintenance.

Why is substation painting important?

Substations are an essential part of the energy generation and distribution system. They transform low and high voltage and direct the energy flow wherever needed. However, very often, they are left uninspected and unattended.

As owners of substations, everyone needs to ensure the safety and performance of the substations. The painting process is part of the maintenance process that ensures the effective functioning of the transformers.

It is especially needed because electrical transformers are designed with an infrastructure for a 50-year lifecycle. Since paint doesn’t last that long, the only best thing to do is repaint it promptly.

Professionals responsible for painting the substations must be specialized as the transformers are high voltage. Only trained workers and professionals who follow safety precautions are hired for this process. Along with the painting process, substation painting also includes insulation and rust treatment.

Without regular painting, transformers can become more dangerous and are at a higher risk of undergoing corrosion due to rust. Since pollution can easily collect on the outside of an electrical transformer, materials like modern steel are also prone to decay. Additionally, natural weathering is also one of the significant reasons for painting substations.

What are some factors that can lead to weathering of electrical transformers?

Most transformers are made of steel and are crucial pieces of equipment at substations that help distribute electricity to millions of buildings. With regular exposure to different elements, these transformers are bound to undergo wear, tear, and corrosion.

Though they are built to endure for decades, they require timely and frequent maintenance to ensure effective performance. Here are some common elements that contribute to this.

1. Pollution

Pollution is one of the biggest factors that can affect transformers significantly. There are several contaminants in the air, and they often stick to the steel’s casing. When there is no or little maintenance, the casing becomes prone to corrosion. As a result, the metal surface can develop holes.

2. Thermal cycling

A thermal cycle occurs when equipment undergoes extreme temperature levels within a short period. It is mainly observed in transformers, and this thermal cycle can cause significant damage to them. Exposure to high and low temperatures can leave the steel affected with cracks and other damage.

3. UV rays

Transformers are regularly exposed throughout the day to UV rays from the sun. This may lead to corrosion over time. The corrosion process becomes faster when the UV rays are combined with tiny water droplets.

Final thoughts

Rusting and corrosion are common issues for electrical transformers. However, with the help of regular cleaning and painting services, you can restore them and save them from unwanted damage.

Spending on damage repairs would be a costlier expense than spending on the painting process. Multiple companies provide you with painting services. Make sure to research well to find the best deal!