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Oil transformer accessories enhance the performance, monitoring, and protection of the transformer. Key accessories for oil transformer include Bushing, Breather, Conservator Tank, Oil Level Indicator, Thermometer, Safety Valve, Oil Pump, Tap Changer, Relay, Oil Sampling Valve, Earthing Terminal, Insulation Monitoring Devices.

1. Bushing: 

Bushings are used to connect the transformer's windings to the external circuit while insulating them from the transformer tank. They can be either solid or oil-impregnated paper types, and some modern bushings incorporate voltage or current sensors for monitoring purposes.

2. Breather: 

A breather is an essential accessory that maintains the air quality inside the transformer by filtering out moisture and impurities as air enters and exits the tank during temperature changes. It typically contains a desiccant like silica gel to absorb moisture.

3. Conservator Tank: 

This is a reservoir connected to the main transformer tank through a pipe and is filled with the same oil. It compensates for oil volume changes due to temperature fluctuations and also helps in removing dissolved gases from the oil.

4. Oil Level Indicator: 

This device indicates the oil level inside the transformer, ensuring that there is always sufficient oil for cooling and insulation. Low oil levels can lead to overheating and damage to the transformer.

5. Temperature Gauge / Thermometer / Thermocouples: 

These devices monitor the temperature of the oil and winding to prevent overheating. Advanced systems may include temperature sensors for remote monitoring and control.

6. Pressure Relief Device (PRD) / Safety Valve: 

PRDs are safety features that open when internal pressure exceeds a certain limit, usually due to fault conditions, to release pressure and prevent tank rupture.

7. Oil Pump and Cooling System: 

Larger transformers often have forced oil circulation systems with pumps and radiators or heat exchangers to enhance the cooling efficiency.

8. Tap Changer: 

A tap changer allows for the adjustment of the transformer's output voltage without interrupting the power supply. It is particularly useful in maintaining voltage stability across a power grid.

9. Buchholz Relay: 

This is a gas detection and protection device installed between the transformer tank and conservator. It detects abnormal gas accumulation caused by internal faults and can trigger alarms or even disconnect the transformer from the grid to prevent severe damage.

10. Oil Sampling Valve: 

This valve enables periodic sampling of the transformer oil for laboratory analysis, checking for moisture content, acidity, dielectric strength, and the presence of fault gases, which are indicators of transformer health.

11. Grounding/Earthing Terminal: 

Ensures proper grounding of the transformer to protect against electrical surges and lightning strikes.

12. Insulation Monitoring Devices: 

These monitor the condition of the transformer's insulation, providing early warning signs of degradation.

Each of these accessories plays a critical role in the overall functionality, safety, and longevity of oil transformers. Regular maintenance and inspection of these components are necessary to ensure optimal transformer performance.