Receiving inspection – Howard Small Power User Manual
Page 4

Document 2.4.54 Revision 0
July 2006
Small Power Substation Transformers
4
RECEIVING INSPECTION
These instructions apply to substation transformers
manufactured by Howard Industries. It is important
to read the safety information on page 2 before
attempting any installation, operation, or maintenance
activities.
Although all transformers, components, and
accessories are carefully inspected and tested prior
to shipment, a thorough receiving inspection should
be conducted to detect any damage or loss that
might have occurred during shipment. The receiving
inspection should be completed upon receipt and
before unloading from the truck. Note any damage or
discrepancies on the bill of lading, file a claim with the
carrier, and notify the Howard Substation Transformer
Division prior to unloading the transformer.
Drawings and Documents
Locate all shipping papers, packing lists, outline
drawings, and other pertinent information. Use these
documents and this manual during the inspection.
The transformer outline drawing indicates the locations
of nameplates and warning labels, and provides
physical dimensions and weights. The nameplate
provides electrical characteristics, winding connections,
and weights. The wiring diagram provides details of
control, fan and alarm wiring.
DO NOT REMOVE OR OBSCURE ANY WARNING LABELS
OR NAMEPLATES.
External Inspection
The following external inspections should be made at a
minimum.
1. Verify that all equipment, accessories, and
components listed on the bill of lading are
present.
2. Ensure there are no signs of external damage.
3. Verify the paint finish has not been damaged.
4. Ensure that fittings, conduit, wiring, and other
attachments are tight and undamaged.
5. Check for evidence of fluid leakage on the
tank, valves, or cooling assemblies.
6. Check for damage to the bushings.
7. Check for damage to the shipping crates,
packages, or other materials shipped
separately from the transformer.
Tank Pressure
The tank vacuum/pressure gauge may indicate
positive or negative when the transformer is
received, depending on the relative fluid and ambient
temperatures. This indicates that the transformer
is sealed effectively. If the vacuum/pressure gauge
reads zero, this may indicate the possibility of a tank
leak; although, a zero reading can occur occasionally
with changing internal and external temperatures.
In the case of a zero reading, the tank should be
pressure tested according to the instructions on page
9 (Pre-energization Tests and Checklist). Report
any suspected tank leaks to the Howard Substation
Transformer Division.
Internal Inspection
An internal inspection of the transformer tank is
rarely necessary and is required only when there are
indications that the transformer has received severe
impact damage during transit. If an internal inspection
is necessary, follow the instructions on page 7 for
opening the transformer tank. Contact the Howard
Substation Transformer Division before proceeding with
any internal inspection.