Megger Frax 101 sweep frequency response analyser

Megger’s Frax 101 sweep frequency response analyser (SFRA) is a tool for revealing potential electrical and mechanical problems in power transformers, many of which are difficult to detect using other methods.

Meeting all international standards for SFRA measurements, Megger claims the instrument offers a larger dynamic range and better accuracy than any other test set of its type currently available. Test connections to the transformer, utilise cabling technology that ensures repeatability of results.

Bluetooth wireless connectivity is supported, eliminating the need for data cables between the instrument and the PC used for result capture and analysis.

The Frax 101 operates by applying a sweep frequency test signal to the transformer and monitoring its response. The result is a unique fingerprint which, when compared with a reference fingerprint for the same transformer, reveals a wide range of faults. These include winding deformations and displacements, shorted and open windings, loose and broken clamping structures, core connection problems, core movement and hoop buckling.

As standard, Megger’s Frax 101 is supplied with a powerful analysis and decision support software package. In addition to supporting the traditional magnitude versus frequency/phase display, this package also allows users to present data in an impedance or admittance versus frequency view, which is a powerful analytical tool for many types of transformer.

The test frequency range covered by the Frax 101 is 0.1 Hz to 25 MHz, and users can set the range employed for individual tests to match the needs of the application. By default, the number of test points used for each frequency sweep is 1046, but users can choose to extend this up to a maximum of 32,000. Typical measurement time is 64 s, but a fast mode is available that is capable of delivering results in just 37 s.

Weighing 1.4 kg, measuring 259 x 169 x 52 mm and having an operating temperature range of -20 to +50ºC, the sweep frequency response analyser is portable and is suitable for use in the field. It is supplied complete with ground cable, four 3 m braid sets, two C clamps, an 18 m generator cable, an 18 m test cable, user manual and Windows software, all housed in a robust carrying case.