At CGI, we help Distribution System Operators understand true transformer capacity and extend asset life. Our CGI RTU-driven Power Transformer Manager provides real-time thermal insight, predictive cooling and dynamic rating. It improves utilisation of existing infrastructure and supports safe emergency loading, without increasing ageing.

Distribution System Operator (DSO) challenges

DSOs face growing pressure to defer capital spend and increase transformer performance. Engineers tell us they need to:

  • Create CapEx efficiency through relief or reallocation
  • Extend transformer life by avoiding thermal stress
  • Use true transformer capacity to improve utilisation
  • Defer costly substation augmentations
  • Deploy a practical monitoring solution that works across all transformer sizes, not just the largest assets

Our solution addresses each of these challenges through accurate thermal modelling, real-time condition data and operational decision support

CGI Power Transformer Manager Benefits 

Extend transformer life
Accurate thermal prediction and early cooling reduces insulation ageing. This helps extend asset life and avoids early replacement cycles.

Maximise existing capacity
Dynamic rating lets operators use true capacity, improving live loading efficiency and enabling safe emergency operation without risk.

Reduce CapEx and avoid unnecessary upgrades
Better utilisation and improved lifecycle management help DSOs defer costly augmentations and redirect investment to higher-value priorities.

Deploy at scale and at low cost
Our low-cost edge compute RTU solves the cost barriers of traditional condition monitoring. It extends the same insight to smaller transformers and substations.

Integrate with existing systems
The application works with existing SCADA and RTU infrastructure. It requires only ambient temperature, load and tap data and supports varied transformer models

Key features

1. Dynamic and predictive rating
We calculate live and forecast hotspot temperatures using IEC 60076-7 dynamic thermal modelling. This gives operators confidence to load transformers beyond static nameplate ratings when required, with no added risk.

2. Early, actionable insight
Operators see time-to-over-temperature, required load reduction and predicted thermal behaviour based on ambient, load and tap-position forecasts. This supports quicker and safer decisions during peak conditions.

3. Predictive intelligent cooling
The application triggers early cooling intervention, reducing insulation ageing. It supports predictive, automatic and manual control through HMI or SCADA.

4. Installation and validation built for engineers 
You initialise static ratings through the WebHMI with a single file load. The system validates load, ambient temperature, tap position, loss ratios, HV currents and top-oil temperature at start-up. Fibre-optic sensors are supported but not required because model accuracy is high.

5. Proven forecasting engine
Our similar-day Machine Learning method forecasts load and tap position. Ambient forecasts derive from recent values. Real-time data then projects changes to the forecast horizon.

6. Optional over-temperature trip
The system monitors winding and top-oil temperatures against defined limits and can execute a controlled trip when required

7. Economics that expand the number of assets monitored
The high cost of monitoring meant that typically only the largest assets were protected.

CGI Power Transformer Manager makes it possible to monitor more of your assets. 

Talk to us about CGI Power Transformer Manager