Investigation into Remote Monitoring of Power Transformers using SCADA

This paper investigates the use of internet-based Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system to monitor power transformer parameters remotely and to investigate into how personnel can have access to their system regardless of their location. There are several parameters that can be monitored for efficient operation of a power transformer, although temperature, voltage, load and bushing condition are considered in this work because they are the major cause of transformer failure. In carrying out this work, the software and hardware components required to carry out the remote monitoring function was considered. Means of preventing hackers from getting access to the network have been considered. The implementation of the monitoring system will help to save running cost by optimising maintenance schedule and reduce risk of failure to the power transformer.