Rebuilt and Ready for Service [VIDEO]
Late-2022 was a challenging time for our grid. Just one month after the most severe storm in our electric utility’s history—which left 93% of customers countywide without power—we were hit once again.
This time, the major blow was more specific, impacting our Port Ludlow substation.
A line fault near the substation caused protective equipment to kick in, but it was not enough to protect the 54-year-old transformer. Inside the transformer a line fault can lead to damage that shows over time or outright failure. Oil samples from the equipment tell the tale with a pattern of complex gases showing up in results–a byproduct of the fault (or numerous faults over the years).
The sudden loss of the transformer left Port Ludlow residents without power for a full day as line crews worked tirelessly to replace it with a second transformer (purchased in 2020) that was fortunately on site at the substation as part of a planned expansion.
Flashforward 1.5 years and our wayward transformer has returned home with a fresh rebuild. Inside, the transformer received a full inspection complete with fresh protective paper around the windings and new mineral oil to keep the components cool. One the outside it looks good as new with a fresh coat of paint and upgrade controls.
To meet growing energy needs in the region, the PUD is planning an expansion of the Port Ludlow substation. This includes adding a new feeder to better support peak electricity demand in mid-county. The Port Ludlow transformer has come full-circle and is now ready in the substation’s second bay.