The Opportunity
The objective of this opportunity is to shortlist the submissions that best answer the brief, with the aim of attending a presentation day with Energy Innovation Centre (EIC) industry partners, where it can be discussed in greater detail with a technical panel.
The EIC welcomes submissions from individual companies or companies working in collaboration with each
other.
What is the Problem?
UK Power Networks (UKPN) operates over 1200 substations in their license areas, the majority of which house between two and four transformers.
Transformers contain insulating oil which is used to regulate their temperature. Oil levels fluctuate with that
temperature, expanding when the transformer is loaded and contracting during cold weather (which
can result in the Buchholz relay being triggered).
Once triggered the current process is for fitters to physically inspect the glass indicators positioned
approximately five meters above ground. In many instances they are unable to read the glass indicator
due to sunlight, parallax error, or opacity (as shown in the images below).
Unnecessary operational costs can also be incurred as it’s often required to top up oil outside of business
hours.
Preferred Output
UKPN is seeking an innovator to develop an oil level monitoring system which can:
- Provide monthly oil level measurements to track trends
- Be set for different frequencies of monitoring
- Factor in oil temperature to prioritise top-ups during operational hours
- Be universally fitted to all conservators
- Avoid the need for screws during installation
- Standardise output by using a percentage of the conservator’s height ensuring consistent trigger points and simplifies implementation
- Be suitable for outdoor environments, waterproof and UV sunlight resistant.
Deadline:
The deadline for this opportunity 15 May 2025. Please submit your proposal above.
Q&A Registration:
The Q&A for this opportunity will take place on 1 May 2025 at 9.30am. You can register to attend by clicking the button at the top of the page, or directly below. Please pre-submit any questions by 5pm on 29 April 2025 to ensure the smooth running of the meeting.