R2,5-million extends transformer’s life span with up to 40 years

GEORGE NEWS - The Protea Transformer that feeds power to Pacaltsdorp, Hansmoeskraal and Syferfontein had undergone R2,5-million worth of maintenance in the 2021/2022 financial year.

According to the director of the George Municipality’s electrotechnical department, Bongani Mandla, a transformer is the most critical component within the electricity distribution network. Its function is to increase the voltage (stepping up the voltage), or to decrease the voltage (stepping down the voltage).

Mandla confirmed that maintenance was necessary for this transformer as one of its components was rusting.

“The trigger for this maintenance, which is funded from George Municipality’s capital budget and loans, was excessive corrosion on the main tank,” he said.

“The unit was sent to an external service provider and upon intrusive inspection, it was detected that the active components and accessories needed to be refurbished or replaced.”

The average lifespan is 30 to 50 years, depending on application, loading and environmental conditions. The average lead time for a new power transformer is nine to fifteen months. This refurbishment project will extend the usable life of this transformer by 30 to 40 years.

The portfolio councillor for the electrotechnical services directorate, Cllr Nosicelo Mbete, visited the site during a series of visits to electrotechnical service capital projects. Mbete commended the department for prioritising the installation and commissioning of this transformer, as it will help improve the reliability of supply to the three areas it serves.

From left are Cllr Nosicelo Mbete (Portfolio Councillor for Electrotechnical Services), Thembani Mzekeli (testing and protection manager), David Mckenzie (specialised electrician), John Cornelius (chief engineering technician) and Cuan Edick (senior superintendent of the sub-station).

Electrotechnical management: Planning, Engineering Services and Distribution. From left are Bongani Mandla (Director of Electrotechnical Services), David Mckenzie (specialised electrician), Cllr Nosicelo Mbete (Portfolio Councillor for Electrotechnical Services), John Cornelius (chief engineering technician) and Cuan Edick (senior superintendent of the sub-station).