Evaluating Voltra's DRH4 System in Real-World Conditions

A power transformer contains hundreds of liters of oil. Even the smallest leak poses a threat to the soil, water, and the continuity of the power supply. How can the problem be detected before it becomes critical, even in extremely cold weather?

The DRH4 system, developed by Voltra, provides a solution: an oil separator and a leak detection device that actively protect high-voltage transformers. The technology is already well-established in the industry. All that remained was to confirm its performance in the field, under harsh conditions.

This is the role we play at Nergica as part of our applied research in energy asset management. From 2024 to 2027, we are conducting a series of tests on the DRH4, which is installed at our research facility. The goal is to validate its performance and reliability, measure its operational and environmental efficiency, and assess its potential for integration into substations exposed to northern environments.

To take advantage of the system’s data, we have connected it to our infrastructure: measurements are transmitted via Modbus communication to our data archiving system, a monitoring screen continuously tracks the status of components, and alerts are sent via email or SMS go to are triggered as soon as than a trace oil is detected.

Document this technology under real-world conditions, It means equipping the network operators who are seeking to reduce the risk of contamination without overburdening their infrastructure. Every substation that is better protected brings the grid closer to safer, cleaner, and more resilient operation in harsh climates.