For 2020, employees of the regional service for insulation and overvoltage protection (RSIOVP) of the Ulyanovsk Distribution Grids branch of Rosseti Volga, PJSC conducted 6,194 tests of electrical equipment. These included 1,427 tests at 0.4/6/10 kV transformer substations (TS), 695 tests at 110/35 kV substations and 4,072 tests of 110 kV supporting and core insulation.

Power suppliers manage to achieve the maximum accuracy and efficiency in electrical tests and measurements thanks to the use of modern diagnostic methods and high-tech equipment. In particular, the vibroacoustic method is used to detect microcracks on the porcelain of supporting and core insulation. The ultrasonic method for diagnostics of the high-voltage porcelain structure is also used in the Ulyanovsk Distribution Grids Branch.

The most effective non-contact method for diagnosing the state of equipment and structures without taking them out of operation is thermal imaging control. In 2020, RSIOVP specialists examined 81 high-voltage substations, 65 high-voltage overhead lines and 1,466 6–10/0.4 kV transformer substations using a thermal imager. Thermal imaging tests allow power suppliers to identify even minor defects by capturing and converting infrared radiation into the visible spectrum.

The branch also has a modern high-performance chemical and chromatographic laboratory that analyzes samples. Physicochemical and chromatographic analyzes carried out on electronic equipment using new techniques and technologies make it possible to determine any deviations from the norm as accurately as possible and diagnose slowly developing defects in transformers at an early stage. Last year, the laboratory staff carried out 857 analyzes of transformer oil samples.

Periodic tests, measurements and inspections of electrical equipment allow early detection of defects and malfunctions, thereby eliminating the risk of damage to expensive equipment and the occurrence of technological disruptions in the grids. All data obtained in the course of surveys are taken into account when forming and adjusting annual production programs.