05/10/2026
How to Replace a Transformer Bushing
Replacing a transformer bushing is a critical maintenance procedure in a power substation. A transformer bushing provides electrical insulation and allows a high-voltage conductor to pass safely through the grounded transformer tank.
A damaged, cracked, leaking, or electrically failed bushing must be replaced carefully to prevent insulation failure, oil contamination, and transformer damage.
1️⃣ Tools and materials required
Replacement bushing of the correct voltage, current, and mechanical ratings
Suitable gaskets and sealing materials
Torque wrench and appropriate hand tools
Lifting equipment, if required
Transformer oil handling and filtration equipment
Insulating oil sampling equipment
Cleaning materials and lint-free cloths
Electrical testing instruments
Approved PPE and safety equipment
2️⃣ Step-by-step bushing replacement procedure
Step 1️⃣ : Isolate and make the transformer safe
🔹Disconnect the transformer from all possible sources, including HV, LV and auxiliary supplies.
🔹Apply lockout/tagout (LOTO).
🔹Verify absence of voltage using approved equipment.
🔹Discharge and apply protective earths as required by the approved safety procedure.
🔹Follow the site-specific safety and switching instructions.
Step 2️⃣ : Prepare the transformer
🔹Check the transformer oil level and bushing arrangement.
🔹Identify the bushing type and internal connection.
🔹Lower the oil level below the bushing mounting opening if required by the design.
🔹Use a clean, dry and controlled work area to prevent moisture and dust from entering the transformer.
Step 3️⃣ : Disconnect the old bushing
🔹Remove the external conductor connections.
🔹Remove the terminal fittings and accessories as specified.
🔹Access and disconnect the internal lead or draw-lead connection according to the manufacturer's instructions.
🔹Support the bushing properly before releasing its mounting hardware.
Step 4️⃣ : Remove the defective bushing
🔹Loosen the mounting bolts in the specified sequence.
🔹Carefully lift the bushing vertically using approved lifting points.
🔹Avoid damaging the mounting fl**ge, internal leads, or tank opening.
🔹Inspect the mounting surface and internal connection for damage or contamination
Step 5️⃣ : Install the new bushing
🔹Verify the replacement bushing's ratings and compatibility.
🔹Install the correct new gasket and check the sealing surfaces.
🔹Carefully lower the new bushing into position.
🔹Reconnect the internal lead according to the manufacturer's procedure.
🔹Tighten mounting bolts in the specified sequence and to the specified torque.
Step 6️⃣ : Refill oil and check sealing
🔹 Restore the oil level using compatible, properly processed transformer oil.
🔹Follow the manufacturer's vacuum filling or oil processing requirements where applicable.
🔹Allow trapped air to escape using the designated procedure.
🔹Check the fl**ge, seals, and connections for oil leakage.
Step 7️⃣ : Perform electrical and mechanical tests
🔹Measure insulation resistance where applicable.
🔹Perform capacitance and power-factor (tan delta) tests for applicable condenser bushings.
🔹Verify electrical connections, clearances, oil level, and sealing.
🔹Carry out any additional tests required by the manufacturer and maintenance plan.
Step 8️⃣ : Commission the transformer
🔹Remove temporary protective earths only under the approved switching procedure.
🔹 Ensure all personnel and tools are clear.
🔹Restore the transformer according to the approved energization sequence.
🔹Monitor voltage, current, oil leakage, unusual noise, and temperature after energization.
3️⃣ Important precautions
Critical safety points
▪️Never replace a bushing on an energized transformer.
▪️Prevent moisture, dust, and foreign objects from entering the transformer.
▪️Do not reuse damaged gaskets.
▪️Never apply arbitrary tightening torque. Follow the exact manufacturer's specifications.
▪️Follow the correct vacuum, oil filling, and air-venting procedure for the specific bushing design.
▪️Do not energize the transformer until required inspection and test results have been reviewed and approved.
The procedure varies significantly between conventional porcelain bushings, condenser-type bushings (OIP, RIP or RIS), and plug-in or draw-lead designs.
4️⃣ Testing after replacement
Test | Purpose
▪️Insulation resistance | Checks insulation condition
▪️Capacitance test | Checks condenser bushing capacitance
▪️Tan delta / power factor | Evaluates dielectric losses
▪️Contact resistance | Checks electrical connection quality, where applicable
▪️Oil leak inspection | Checks sealing integrity
▪️Oil quality tests | Checks oil condition when required
Testing requirements depend on the bushing type and the transformer maintenance specification.
One important question: Are you replacing a 33 kV, 132 kV, or 220 kV power transformer bushing, and is it an oil-filled condenser bushing or a conventional porcelain bushing? The exact replacement sequence differs considerably between them.