High Humidity Hazard Prevention: Daily O&M Strategy for Transformers in Southeast Asia Inland Areas

Southeast Asia’s inland areas (Thailand’s Bangkok, Vietnam’s Ho Chi Minh City, Cambodia’s Phnom Penh) have year-round high humidity (80-95%), and frequent monsoon rains further increase air moisture content. High humidity easily causes transformer insulation aging, internal condensation, and short circuits, which is a major hidden danger affecting transformer operation stability. Scientific moisture-proof O&M measures can reduce failure rates by 45%.

For oil-immersed transformers, color-changing desiccant breathers must be equipped to absorb moisture in the air. The silica gel in the breather turns blue when dry and red when saturated, and it should be replaced immediately when it turns red (once every 1-2 months in rainy seasons, once every 3 months in dry seasons). The cooling fins should be cleaned monthly with a soft brush or damp cloth to remove dust and moisture deposits, ensuring heat dissipation efficiency and avoiding overheating caused by poor heat dissipation.

Transformer installation sites should avoid low-lying, waterlogged areas; the foundation should be raised by 20cm, and drainage ditches should be dug around to divert rainwater quickly. After monsoons, a comprehensive inspection should be conducted: check for water ingress on the transformer surface and internal components, dry the surface with a low-heat fan if necessary, and test insulation resistance (acceptable value ≥10 MΩ) to detect hidden dangers early.

For minor wiring insulation damage, moisture-resistant epoxy insulation tape should be used for repairs, and ordinary insulation tape should not be used to avoid moisture absorption and insulation failure. The following table shows the recommended O&M frequency for moisture-proof measures in different seasons: