Hyderabad: To enhance safety, ensure reliable power distribution systems, and modernise the distribution transformer network, the Southern Power Distribution Company of Telangana (TGSPDCL) has begun implementing an advanced pole-mounted distribution transformer (PMDT) system for the installation of distribution transformers.TSSPDCL chairman and managing director (CMD) Musharraf Faruqui said the new method significantly reduces space requirements and ensures that the surroundings of the transformer are safer, more orderly, and aesthetically pleasing. In addition, operation, maintenance, and monitoring activities become much easier.Officials said that traditionally, installing a transformer on a plinth requires a minimum space of 30–35 square feet. The construction of concrete plinths and the curing process takes about a week. Moreover, equipment such as the HG fuse set, distribution box, and AB switch needs to be installed separately on another pole, leading to poor cleanliness around the power trasnformer (PTR) plinth. This results in the accumulation of garbage around the pole, making maintenance activities difficult for field staff.The discom said that, as an alternative, under the modern pole-mounted system, the transformer can be installed at a height of 6 to 9 feet on an 11-metre-tall spun pole with a diameter of just 377 millimetres. All associated equipment, including the HG fuse set, distribution box, and AB switch, is specially designed to be mounted on the same pole. With this method, the transformer can be installed within a single day. Using a bucket ladder, a single staff member can safely and conveniently carry out maintenance activities. Future underground (UG) cables can also be connected to these pole-mounted transformers with ease, TSSPDCL said in a statement.Officials said that at present, transformers with capacities of 63 kVA, 100 kVA, and 160 kVA are being installed on 11-metre poles under this system. “While these poles are suitable for transportation along major roads, some difficulty is being faced while transporting them through narrow lanes. To overcome this issue, TGSPDCL is taking steps to install transformers on shorter 9.5-metre poles as well. Additionally, the feasibility of installing higher-capacity transformers under this system is also being examined,” TSSPDCL said.The discom said that work is underway at 304 locations across Greater Hyderabad to install transformers under this advanced pole-mounted system, and over 100 transformers have already been successfully commissioned. Through the company’s “Currentolla Prajabata” programme, distribution transformers that pose a risk to the public or obstruct roads are being identified, and the new system will be implemented on a larger scale in the coming days, the CMD said.
