Power Transformers: Operational Principles, Selection, and Troubleshooting
| 20 – 24 Apr. 2026, Abu Dhabi | 17 – 21 Aug. 2026, Dubai |
COURSE OVERVIEW:
Power transformers are the critical nodes of the electrical grid, responsible for efficient voltage conversion and system interconnection. This course provides a technical exploration of "Transformer Engineering," focusing on the selection criteria for industrial and utility applications. Participants will explore the mechanics of "Electromagnetic Induction," learning how core geometry, winding topology, and magnetic materials dictate the efficiency and thermal performance of the unit.
The scope of this training addresses the full lifecycle of the transformer, from "Design Specification" to "Field Troubleshooting." It covers the technical nuances of "Impedance Selection," focusing on the trade-offs between fault current limitation and voltage regulation. The curriculum provides a detailed focus on "Selection Parameters," ensuring that participants can specify the correct cooling class, vector group, and insulation level for diverse environmental and operational conditions.
Coverage includes the implementation of advanced troubleshooting techniques for common operational issues such as "Gassing," "Vibration," and "Overheating." Attendees will learn to interpret "Nameplate" data, analyze "Loadability" under non-standard conditions, and troubleshoot "Tap Changer" malfunctions. By combining theoretical physics with practical engineering selection, the course equips professionals with the expertise required to procure, operate, and maintain high-reliability transformer assets.
COURSE OBJECTIVES:
After completion of this course, the participants will be able to:
- Define the "Operational Physics" of single and three-phase transformers.
- Differentiate between "Core-Type" and "Shell-Type" designs.
- Specify "Voltage Levels" and "MVA Ratings" for network requirements.
- Select appropriate "Vector Groups" for system grounding and phasing.
- Evaluate the impact of "Short-Circuit Impedance" on grid stability.
- Differentiate between "Mineral Oil," "Ester," and "Dry-Type" insulation.
- Interpret "Nameplate" data according to IEC and IEEE standards.
- Select "Cooling Methods" (ONAN, ONAF, etc.) based on ambient load.
- Troubleshoot "High Dissolved Gas" (DGA) and "Acidity" issues.
- Diagnose "Audible Noise" and "Vibration" sources in transformers.
- Evaluate "Load Tap Changer" (LTC) requirements and selection.
- Perform "Loss Capitalization" calculations for procurement.
TARGET AUDIENCE:
This course is intended for Electrical Design Engineers, Procurement Managers, Substation Operators, and Maintenance Engineers.
TRAINING COURSE METHODOLOGY:
A highly interactive combination of lectures, discussion sessions, and case studies will be employed to maximize the transfer of information, knowledge, and experience. The course will be intensive, practical, and highly interactive. The sessions will start by raising the most relevant questions and motivating everybody to find the right answers. The attendants will also be encouraged to raise more of their questions and to share in developing the right answers using their analysis and experience. There will also be some indoor experiential activities to enhance the learning experience. Course material will be provided in PowerPoint, with necessary animations, learning videos, and general discussions.
The course participants shall be evaluated before, during, and at the end of the course.
COURSE CERTIFICATE:
National Consultant Centre for Training LLC (NCC) will issue an Attendance Certificate to all participants completing a minimum of 80% of the total attendance time requirement.

