Document 2.4.126, Revision 4
October 2017
16
Three-Phase Padmounted Distribution Transformers
The tap changer is operated by use of a rotating
handle located inside the terminal compartment.
Never operate a de-energized tap changer while the
transformer is energized. Tap changers normally
have five or seven tap positions as indicated on
the tap changer dial plate and the transformer
nameplate. A locking mechanism is normally
provided to lock the tap changer into position and
prevent accidental operation. Do not re-energize the
transformer until the tap changer is firmly locked
into a tap position. The transformer is shipped
from the factory with the tap changer in the rated
voltage position, unless otherwise specified by the
customer.
Series/Multiple or Delta/Wye Switch
Transformers designed with series/multiple
windings (dual-voltage or triple-voltage
transformers) are supplied with a de-energized
series/multiple switch. Transformers with re-
connectable delta/wye windings are supplied with
a delta/wye switch. The presence of either of
these switches will be indicated on the transformer
nameplate.
The transformer must be completely de-energized
before operating either of these switches. If the
transformer is not de-energized before operating
the switch, personal injury and permanent
equipment damage will result. Unless otherwise
specified, series/multiple transformers are shipped
from the factory with the series/multiple switch in
the highest voltage position.
Load-Break Switch
One or more rotary under-oil load-break switches
may be supplied on the transformer and located in
the high-voltage compartment. These switches can
be either two-position (ON-OFF) switches or three-
or four-position sectionalizing switches. Switch
positions are marked on the transformer front panel
and shown on the nameplate diagram. Rotary load-
break switches are designed to be operated with a
live-line tool (hot stick or shotgun stick) and should
not be operated by hand.
The two-position switch is operated by inserting
the live-line tool into the operating handle and
rotating the switch to either the ON or OFF position.
The three- or four-position switch is operated by
inserting the live-line tool in the index plate and
moving the plate over the peg between its present
setting and the next setting. The index plate
prevents the switch from switching more than one
position at a time. The live-line tool is then inserted
into the switch operating handle and turned until
the switch snaps into the next position. Repeat this
procedure until the switch is in the desired position.
Do not stop and reverse direction of the switch
before it has changed position, as this will damage
the switch mechanism.
Fuses
A blown fuse may indicate a faulted transformer.
Do not replace a blown fuse unless the cause of the
fuse operation has been identified and corrected.
Fuses should be applied according to the fuse
rating. Replacement fuses should have the proper
rating and operating characteristics. Refer to the
circuit diagram on the transformer nameplate for
the location of fuses.
DANGER
FAILURE TO FOLLOW THE INSTRUCTIONS
BELOW WILL RESULT IN DEATH OR SERIOUS
PERSONAL INJURY, AND DAMAGE TO THE
EQUIPMENT.
• Do not operate a de-energized series/
multiple or delta/wye switch unless the
transformer is totally de-energized.
• Do not re-energize the transformer
unless the series/multiple or delta/wye
switch handle is locked into position.
CAUTION
FAILURE TO FOLLOW THE INSTRUCTIONS
BELOW MAY RESULT IN MINOR OR
MODERATE PERSONAL INJURY, AND /OR
DAMAGE TO THE EQUIPMENT.
• Do not operate a load-break switch by
hand. Operate only using a live-line tool
(hot stick or shotgun stick).
• Do not stop and reverse direction of the
load-break switch before it has changed
position.