Implementing a reliability centered maintenance approach to enhance UETCL’s transmission grid performance.

Abstract

This project develops a Reliability-Centred Maintenance (RCM) model for 132/11kV transformers at Kawanda Substation to enhance power system reliability. It focuses on four critical components; winding insulation, tank oil, on-load tap changers, and bushings by analysing their failure modes and impacts. Unlike existing maintenance approach which lacks a generic reliability model, this project proposes a systematic approach to assess transformer reliability by simulating failure effects. The RCM strategy considers both network importance and technical condition, optimising maintenance planning. Results demonstrate the model’s effectiveness in predicting failures and improving transformer performance, ensuring cost-efficient maintenance and reduced downtime RCM methodology employs a four-stage process; firstly, Critical component identification, secondly Targeted data collection (bushings, tank oil, windings insulation, tap changers), thirdly Weibull-based and exponential reliability modelling incorporating stress factors, and finally Maintenance optimization via reliability threshold analysis. A Weibull/exponential-based reliability model was developed for critical transformer components (bushings, tap changers, winding insulation and tank oil). MATLAB Simulink simulations generated R(t) vs. time curves, demonstrating reliability decay with operational hours. Maintenance interventions were optimised using an 80% reliability threshold for each transformer component, ensuring data-driven maintenance decisions to enhance system performance and longevity.