FRAMIT is a portable, self-contained and easy to use instrument that had been developed specifically for performing FRA tests on power transformers. Results from the FRAMIT instrument show that they are identical to those obtained from the Sweep Frequency FRA test instrument. If a transformer is suspected of internal damage, the FRAMIT test results can assist in deciding whether or not to take the transformer out of service for further investigation.


The performance of power transformers will determine, to a large extent, the quality of power supply. It is therefore very important to continuously monitor and assess the condition of transformers to ensure reliability and availability of power supply.

The detection of a transformer winding condition that might lead to a fault and subsequent outage, and being able to take corrective action (e.g. re-clamping or insulation repair) prior to failure, can save a transformer rewind, estimated to cost in the region of $1-million for a large power transformer.

Frequency Response Analysis (FRA) is becoming an increasingly popular technique used to externally monitor and assess the condition and mechanical integrity of transformer windings for short-circuits, open-circuits, deformation, winding insulation breakdown and loss of clamping pressure. The FRA technique can help maintenance personnel identify suspect transformers, enabling them to take those transformers out of service