Electricity and Control September 2025

Transformers, substations + the grid: Products + services

Showcasing T&D equipment hands-on for customers

its technologies. The centre was inspired by the logistical challenges of transporting large, delicate demo equipment to industry exhibitions. The new space means clients can explore ACTOM’s capabilities in a relaxed environment without the interference of a working factory or a busy trade show. This is the first Customer Experience Centre focused on ACTOM’s T&D equipment and incorporates contributions from several divisions, including Static Power, which is located o•-site. The centre reflects ACTOM’s broader shi‘ towards integrated, client-focused engagement and innovation. “This is a further step towards putting our customers at the centre of how we operate, design, and deliver,” Jordaan says. The ACTOM Customer Experience Centre is open to clients, partners, and stakeholders by appointment.

ACTOM has launched a new Customer Experience Centre at its Knights facility in Boksburg, Johannesburg. It is designed to o•er customers easier access, clear visibility and insight into operational, full-scale equipment. At the centre, clients can interact with the equipment and discover how ACTOM’s technologies work together to solve real-world challenges. The new Customer Experience Centre brings together working examples of ACTOM’s Transmission and Distribution (T&D) o•erings, including medium-voltage switchgear, distribution transformers, high-voltage equipment, protection and control systems, and ac/ dc standby equipment. The equipment has been specially configured to o•er maximum visibility into key internal features, with cutaways, viewing windows, and safe operating access. “The idea is to create an environment where clients can interact with working equipment in a way that enables them to build an understanding of the technology and operating principles of the equipment,” says Johan Jordaan, Technology Development Specialist at ACTOM – MV Switchgear Division. “We are o•ering customers the chance to see first-hand how our products work and how they interface with one another across our divisions.” The centre includes a fully equipped presentation and training room, allowing for technical walkthroughs, equipment demonstrations, and interactive workshops. Engineers can use functional units to deliver hands-on product training or test pilot configurations with clients. “It is a collaborative space where we can explore challenges, demonstrate capabilities, and co-develop solutions that meet our customers’ particular requirements.” says Jordaan ACTOM also plans to explore future enhancements, such as augmented reality experiences, to deepen customer interaction with

For more information visit: www.actom.co.za

From left: Rhett Kelly, Design & Development Manager at MV Switchgear; Mervyn Naidoo, Group CEO; Johan Jordaan, Technology Development Specialist at MV Switchgear; Andries Mthethwa, Group Chairman; Donovan Stevens, MV Switchgear Divisional CEO.

SANAS accredited for Dissolved Gas Analysis testing

the importance of DGA in the maintenance of transformers. “Dissolved gas analysis is used mostly for fault detection in transformers, and it is critically important that the analysis is accurate. By analysing the gases dissolved in the transformer’s oil, we gain important clues about the health of the transformer. “WearCheck is pioneering the way in transformer maintenance in Southern Africa, and this SANAS accreditation is a powerful attribute for our laboratories.” Transformers help to transfer electricity over long distances, often playing key roles in the infrastructure of a region and ensuring power supply to cities, industrial plants and other critical users. Therefore, early detection of faults and potential failures is important. DGA saves transformer operators money on avoidable repairs and time and helps prevent greater problems such as interrupted power supply. It also helps prolong the life of the transformer. Nel explains the process: “Small amounts of gases are formed in the oil when a transformer is in operation. Using DGA, hidden problems inside the transformer are revealed by detecting the gases in the oil. “Some of the common transformer problems and the associated gases include oil overheating (ethane and ethylene), insulation paper overheating (carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and acetic acid gases), air ingress (oxygen and nitrogen), and partial discharge (hydrogen gas and carbon monoxide gases), sparking and arcing type of faults

Specialist condition monitoring company, WearCheck, is now accredited to perform Dissolved Gas Analysis, DGA, for transformers. This follows a recent assessment by SANAS – the South African National Accreditation System. The company’s Johannesburg transformer oil testing laboratory now has ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation for testing DGA, moisture, acidity, dielectric strength, and PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls) in transformer oils. Gert Nel, WearCheck’s Transformer Division Manager, outlines WearCheck transformer technicians Kefilwe Ntshabele and Tumelo Seobi.

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28 Electricity + Control SEPTEMBER 2025