FRAX 150

Sweep Frequency Response Analyzer

FRAX 150
Sweep Frequency Response Analyzer
■■Highest dynamic range and accuracy
in the industry

■■Built-in
PC with powerful backlit screen
for use in direct sunlight

■■Highestpossible repeatability by
using reliable cable practice and
high-performance instrumentation

■■Fulfills
all international standards
for SFRA measurements

■■Advanced analysis and decision support

built into the software

■■Imports data from other FRA test sets

Description
Power transformers are some of the most vital components
in today’s transmission and distribution infrastructure.
Transformer failures cost enormous amounts of money
in unexpected outages and unscheduled maintenance. It
is important to avoid these failures and make testing and
diagnostics reliable and efficient.
The FRAX 150 Sweep Frequency Response Analyzer
(SFRA) detects potential mechanical and electrical
problems that other methods are unable to detect. Major
utilities and service companies have used the FRA method
for more than a decade. The measurement is easy to
perform and will capture a unique “fingerprint” of the
transformer. The measurement is compared to a reference
“fingerprint” and gives a direct answer if the mechanical
parts of the transformer are unchanged or not. Deviations
indicate geometrical and/or electrical changes within the
transformer. Collecting fingerprint data using Frequency Response Analysis
FRAX 150 detects problems such as: (FRA) is an easy way to detect electro-mechanical problems in
power transformers and an investment that will save time and
„„Winding deformations and displacements money.
„„Shorted turns and open windings
„„Loosened clamping structures
„„Broken clamping structures
„„Core connection problems
„„Partial winding collapse
„„Faulty core grounds
„„Core movements
 FRAX 150
Sweep Frequency Response Analyzer
Application Having a reference measurement on a mission critical
Power transformers are specified to withstand mechanical transformer when an incident has occurred is, therefore, a
forces from both transportation and in-service events, such valuable investment as it will allow for an easier and more
as faults and lightning. However, mechanical forces may reliable analysis.
exceed specified limits during severe incidents or when
the insulation’s mechanical strength has weakened due to Analysis and software
aging. A relatively quick test where the fingerprint response As a general guideline, shorted turns, magnetization and
is compared to a post event response allows for a reliable other problems related to the core alter the shape of the
decision on whether the transformer safely can be put back curve in the lowest frequencies. Medium frequencies
into service or if further diagnostics is required. represent axial or radial movements in the windings and
high frequencies indicate problems involving the cables
Method basics from the windings, to bushings and tap changers.
A transformer consists
of multiple capacitances,
inductances and resistors,
a very complex circuit that
generates a unique fingerprint
or signature when test signals
are injected at discrete
frequencies and responses are
plotted as a curve.
Capacitance is affected by the
distance between conductors.
Movements in the winding
will consequently affect
capacitances and change the
shape of the curve.
The SFRA method is based on comparisons between
measured curves where variations are detected. One An example of low, medium and high frequencies
SFRA test consists of multiple sweeps and reveals if the The FRAX Software provides numerous features to allow
transformer’s mechanical or electrical integrity has been for efficient data analysis. Unlimited tests can be open
jeopardized. at the same time and the user has full control on which
sweeps to compare. The response can be viewed in
Practical application traditional Magnitude vs. Frequency and/or Phase vs.
In its standard application, a “finger print” reference curve Frequency view. The user can also choose to present the
for each winding is captured when the transformer is new data in an Impedance or Admittance vs. Frequency view
or when it is in a known good condition. These curves for powerful analysis on certain transformer types.
can later be used as reference during maintenance tests or
when there is reason to suspect a problem.
The most reliable method is the time based comparison
where curves are compared over time on measurements
from the same transformer. Another method utilizes type
based comparisons between “sister transformers” with
the same design. Lastly, a construction based comparison
can, under certain conditions, be used when comparing
measurements between windings in the same transformer.
These comparative tests can be performed 1) before and
after transportation, 2) after severe through faults 3) before
and after overhaul and 4) as diagnostic test if you suspect
potential problems. One SFRA test can detect winding
problems that requires multiple tests with different kinds of
test equipment or problems that cannot be detected with
other techniques at all. The SFRA test presents a quick and The figure above shows a single phase transformer after a
cost effective way to assess if damages have occurred or if service overhaul where, by mistake, the core ground never
the transformer can safely be energized again. If there is a got connected (red), and after the core ground was properly
problem, the test result provides valuable information that connected (green). This potential problem clearly showed up
can be used as decision support when determining further at frequencies between 1 kHz and 10 kHz and a noticeable
action. change is also visible in the 10 kHz – 200 kHz range.
 FRAX 150
Sweep Frequency Response Analyzer
Features and benefits 1. Test Object Browser – Unlimited number of tests and
sweeps. Full user control
„„Built-inPC with powerful backlit screen for use in direct
sunlight
2. Quick Select Tabs – Quickly change presentation view for
different perspectives and analysis tools.
„„Guaranteed repeatability by using superior cabling
3. Quick Graph Buttons – Programmable graph setting lets
technology, thus avoiding the introduction of error due to you change views quickly and easily.
cable connection and positioning (which is common in other
4. Sweep/Curve Settings – Every sweep can be individually
FRA manufacturers’ equipment).
turned on or off, change color, thickness and position.
„„Fulfills
all international standards for Sweep Frequency 5. Dynamic Zoom – Zoom in and move your focus to any
Response Analysis (SFRA) measurements. part of the curve.
„„Highest dynamic range and accuracy in the industry 6. Operation Buttons – All essential functions at your finger-
allowing even the most subtle electro-mechanical changes tips; select with mouse, function keys or touch screen.
within the transformer to be detected. 7. Automated analysis compares two curves using an algo-
„„Advanced analysis and support software tools allows for rithm that compare amplitude as well as frequency shift
sound decision making with regard to further diagnostics and lets you know if the difference is severe, obvious, or
analysis and/or transformer disposition. light.

1 2 3

4 5 6

Built-in-decision support is
provided by using a built-in
analysis tool based on the
international standard
DL/T 911-2004.

7
 FRAX 150
Sweep Frequency Response Analyzer
Considerations when performing All data is stored on the built-in hard drive. The data can be
SFRA measurements moved to any other computer using a USB memory stick.
SFRA measurements are compared over time or between
different test objects. This accentuates the need to perform Import and Export
the test with the highest repeatability and eliminates The FRAX software can import data files from other FRA
the influence from external parameters such as cables, instruments making it possible to compare data obtained
connections and instrument performance. FRAX offers using another FRA unit. FRAX can import and export data
all the necessary tools to ensure that the measured curve according to the international XFRA standard format as well
represents the internal condition of the transformer. as standard CSV and TXT formats.

Good connections Optimized sweep setting

Bad connections can compromise the test results which is The software offers the user an unmatched feature that allows
why FRAX offers a rugged test clamp that ensures good for fast and efficient testing. Traditional SFRA systems use a
connection to the bushings and solid connections to the logarithmic spacing of measurement points. This results in
instrument. as many test points between 20 Hz and 200 Hz as between
200 KHz and 2 MHz and a relatively long measurement time.
The frequency response from the transformer contains a few
resonances in the low frequency range but a lot of resonances
at higher frequencies. FRAX allows the user to specify
less measurement points at lower frequencies and high
measurement point density at higher frequencies. The result
is a much faster sweep with greater detail where it is needed.

Variable voltage
The applied test voltage may affect the response at lower
frequencies. Some FRA instruments do not use the 10 V peak-
Contacts made with the C-clamp guarantee good connections
to-peak used by major manufacturers and this may complicate
Shortest braid concept comparisons between tests. FRAX standard voltage is 10 V
peak-to-peak but FRAX also allows the user to adjust the
The connection from the cable shield to ground has to be applied voltage to match the voltage used in a different test.
the same for every measurement on a given transformer.
Traditional ground connections techniques have issues
FTB101
when it comes to providing repeatable conditions. This
causes unwanted variations in the measured response for Several international FRA guides recommends to verify the
the highest frequencies that makes analysis difficult. integrity of cables and instrument before and after a test
using a test circuit with a known FRA response supplied by
The FRAX braid drops down from the connection clamp
the equipment manufacturer. FRAX comes with a field test
next to the insulating discs to the ground connection at the
box FTB-101 as a standard accessory and allows the user to
base of the bushing. This creates near identical conditions
perform this important validation in the field at any time and
every time you connect to a bushing whether it is tall or
secure measurement quality.
short.

Solid connections using the C-clamps and the shortest braid method to
connect the shield to ground makes it possible to eliminate connection
problems and cable loops that otherwise affect the measurement.
FTB101 Field Test Box

FRAX 150 with Built-in PC

FRAX 150 has a built-in PC with a high contrast, powerful
backlit screen suitable for work in direct sunlight. The
cursor is controlled via the built-in joystick or using an
external USB mouse and the built-in keyboard makes data
entry easy.
 FRAX 150
Sweep Frequency Response Analyzer
Dynamic range Specifications FRAX 150
Making accurate measurements in a wide frequency range Specifications are valid at nominal input voltage and an ambient
with high dynamics puts great demands on test equipment, temperature of +25°C, (77°F). Specifications are subject to change
test leads, and test set up. FRAX 150 is designed with without notice.
these requirements in mind. It is rugged, able to filter Environmental
induced interference and has the highest dynamic range Application field The instrument is intended for use in
and accuracy in the industry. FRAX 150 dynamic range medium and high-voltage substations and
or noise floor is shown in red below with a normal industrial environments.
transformer measurement in black. A wide dynamic range, Ambient temperature
low noise floor, allows for accurate measurements in every Operating -20°C to +50°C (-4°F to +122°F)
transformer. A margin of about 20 dB from the lowest Storage -20°C to 70°C (-4°F to +158°F)
response to the instruments noise floor must be maintained Humidity < 90%RH, non-condensing
to obtain ±1 dB accuracy. CE-marking
EMC 2004/108/EC
LVD 2006/95/EC
General
Mains voltage 90 – 264 V AC, 47 – 63 Hz
Dimensions 305 x 194 x 360 mm (12” x 7.6” x 14.2”)
Weight 6 kg (13 lbs)
Measurement section
FRA Method Sweep frequency (SFRA)
Frequency range 0.1 Hz – 25 MHz, user selectable
Number of points Default 1046,
User selectable up to 32,000
Measurement time: Default 64 s, fast setting,
37 s (20 Hz – 2 MHz)
Points spacing Log., linear or both
Dynamic range / >130dB
Noise floor
An example of FRAX 150’s dynamic limit (red) and transformer Inaccuracy ±0.5 dB down to -100 dB
measurement (black) (10 Hz – 10 MHz)
Close-up of FRAX 150 control panel IF bandwidth / User selectable (10% default)
Integration time
Software FRAX for Windows 2000/ XP/Vista/7
PC Communication USB
Test button (galvanically isolated)
Calibration interval Max 3 years
Standards / guides Fulfill requirements in Cigré Brochure 342,
Built-in mouse with 2008
left and right click Mechanical condition assessment of trans-
buttons former windings using FRA and Chinese
(sealed to protect standard DL/T 911-2004, FRA on winding
from dust and other deformation of power transformers, as well
contaminants) as other international standards and recom-
mendations
Analog Output
Navigation arrows Channels 1
Compliance voltage 0.2 – 24 V p-p
Enter key Measurement volt- 0.1 – 12 V p-p
age at 50 Ω
Output impedance 50 Ω
Protection Short-circuit protected
Analog Input
Channels 2
Sampling Simultaneously
Input impedance 50 Ω
Sampling rate 100 MS/s
PC
Operating system Windows® based
Memory 1000 records in internal memory
External storage on USB stick
 FRAX 150
Sweep Frequency Response Analyzer
Included accessories Optional accessories

Included accessories shown above: Mains cable, ground cable,

(2) ground braid sets, (2) earth/ground braid leads (insulated),
(2) C-clamps, generator cable, measure cable, field test box,
nylon accessory pouch, (2) earth/ground braids with clamp,
and canvas carrying bag for test leads The FRAX Demo box FDB101 is a transformer kit that can be
used for in-house training and demonstrations. The small
transformer is a single-phase unit with capability to simulate
normal as well as fault conditions. Open as well as shorted
measurements can be performed. The unit also contains two
test impedances, one of them the same as used in the FTB101
field test box

Ordering information
Item (Qty) Cat. No.
FRAX 150
With 18 m (60 ft) Leads
FRAX Generator cable, 18 m (60 ft)
FRAX Measure cable, 18 m (60 ft) AC-39090
FRAX 150
With 9 m (30 ft) Leads
FRAX Generator cable, 9 m (30 ft)
FRAX Measure cable, 9 m (30 ft) AC-39092
Included Accessories
AC Power cord (IEC60320-C13 to US standard)
AC Power cord (IEC60320-C13 to Schuko CEE 7/7)
Canvas carrying bag (for leadset)
Ground cable 5 m (16 ft)
FRAX software for PC
Earth/Ground braid lead 2 x 3 m (9 ft)
Earth/Ground braid lead (insulated) 2 x 3 m (9 ft)
C-clamp (Bushing clamps) 2 pcs
C-clamp (Ground braid clamps) 2 pcs
Field Test Box, FTB101
Earth/Ground braid with clamp 2 x 0.3 m (1 ft)
Nylon accessory bag
User’s manual
Optional Accessories
Calibration set AC-90020
FRAX Demo Box FDB101 AC-90050
 FRAX 150
Sweep Frequency Response Analyzer
 FRAX 150
Sweep Frequency Response Analyzer

SWEDEN UK Other Technical Sales Offices Registered to ISO 9001 and 14001
Subject to change without notice.
Megger Sweden AB Archcliffe Road Dover Dallas USA, Norristown USA,
Art.No. ZI-AC04E • Doc. AC0027DE • 2011
Eldarvägen 4, Box 2970 CT17 9EN England Toronto CANADA, Trappes FRANCE,
SE-187 29 TÄBY T +44 (0) 1304 502101 Oberursel GERMANY, Johannesburg FRAX 150_DS_en_V07
T +46 8 510 195 00 F +44 (0) 1304 207342 SOUTH AFRICA, Kingdom of BAHRAIN www.megger.com
F +46 8 510 195 95 Mumbai INDIA, Chonburi THAILAND Megger is a registered trademark
E [email protected] Sydney AUSTRALIA