SON parleys stakeholders on curbing transformer explosion

Against the backdrop of incessant transformer explosions across the country, Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) has engaged relevant stakeholders to ensure the use of quality transformers for safety of electricity workers and in household wiring.

Speaking at a forum on Stakeholders’ Awareness and Collaboration with Transformers Dealers Association (TDA), in Lagos, Director General of SON, Mr. Osita Aboloma, said the interaction is meant to curb the frequent explosion of transformers, noting that government is concerned about such incidences.

Aboloma who was represented by SON’s Director of Operations, Engr. Felix Nyado, stated: “Distribution transformers are used for lower voltage distribution networks as a means to end user connectivity. They are essential to getting electricity to the consumers in a safe manner. However, the frequent transformers’ explosion in many communities in recent times, posing severe risks to the citizens and electricity distribution workers is of grave concern to the governments of the country.

“It is on this premise that SON has taken this initiative to discuss with the relevant stakeholders in the importation and distribution of transformers with the regulators, to proffer solutions for the purchase, installation and maintenance of distribution transformers that will be reliable and guarantee the continuous supply of electricity to consumers why guaranteeing the safety of Discos’ workers.”

Engr. Richard Adewunmi, also of SON, speaking on why transformer explosions occur, said: “Most transformers by rating are not expected to be loaded more than 60 – 70 percent of their capacities, because of illegal connections to the transformers, you discover that they are loaded more than 100 percent of the load capacity. And when you over heat the transformers, the parts will burn, and that’s when you start having this problem.”

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