Transformer On-load (OLTC) and No-load (NLTC) Tap changers
A tap changer typically consists of a series of taps, or connections, that are placed along the transformer’s primary or secondary winding. The voltage of the transformer’s output can be adjusted by selecting a different tap along the winding. This allows the transformer to be connected to different voltage levels, depending on the needs of the electrical system.
Tap changers are commonly used in electrical power systems to adjust the voltage of the power being supplied to different areas or loads. For example, a tap changer can be used to adjust the voltage of a transformer that supplies power to a residential neighborhood, allowing the transformer to be connected to different voltage levels depending on the time of day or the demand for power.
Overall, a tap changer is a device that is used to adjust the voltage of an electrical transformer. It consists of a series of taps along the transformer’s winding and allows the transformer to be connected to different voltage levels depending on the needs of the electrical system.
Tap changers are of two types,
On-load Tap changer (OLTC)
An on-load tap changer is a type of tap changer that is used to adjust the voltage of an electrical transformer while the transformer is carrying a load. An on-load tap changer allows the transformer to be connected to different voltage levels without interrupting the flow of power, which is important for maintaining the stability and reliability of the electrical system.
No-load Tap changer (NLTC)
A no-load tap changer, on the other hand, is a type of tap changer that is used to adjust the voltage of an electrical transformer when the transformer is not carrying a load. A no-load tap changer is typically used to adjust the voltage of the transformer when it is first energized, or when the load on the transformer is low or fluctuating.
Onload tap changers and no-load tap changers are both commonly used in electrical power systems to adjust the voltage of transformers. The type of tap changer that is used depends on the specific needs of the electrical system and the load on the transformer. Onload tap changers are typically used in applications where it is important to maintain the stability and reliability of the electrical system, while no-load tap changers are typically used in applications where the load on the transformer is low or fluctuating.
Tap position indicator
An electrical transformer tap position indicator is a device that is used to indicate the current tap position of a transformer. The tap position indicator typically consists of a mechanical or electronic mechanism that is connected to the transformer’s tap changer. When the tap position is changed, the indicator will show the position, which can be read by the operator. Some tap position indicators also have an alarm or signal that will alert the operator if the tap position is changed improperly or if any signal issue with the remote tap changer.
The tap position indicator is typically connected to a control panel or a remote monitoring system, which allows the operator to monitor the transformer’s tap position from a remote location. This is particularly useful for large transformers that are located in remote areas or for transformers that are used in critical applications, where the tap position must be closely monitored. This helps to ensure that the transformer is operating at the correct tap position, which is essential for the safe and reliable operation of the transformer.