What Is a Borescope (Internal) Inspection of a Transformer?
Quick answer — A borescope inspection looks inside the tank through an opening (for example after oil drain) with a fibre-optic or video scope to inspect the windings, core, leads and insulation for deformation, dust, tracking, burns or moisture — without a full dismantling. It is used after a trip, a short-circuit, or a suspect test to find the physical cause of a problem.
What is a borescope inspection of a transformer?
What it does
A flexible or rigid scope is inserted into the tank (often where the oil has been drained or at an inspection port) to view the windings, core, clamping, leads and insulation.
What it finds
Track marks, burns, deformation of the windings, dust or debris, moisture and oil sludge, loose connections and other physical defects.
Why it is used
It gives a visual confirmation of a fault that a test suggested, without an expensive full dismantling, and helps plan the repair.
References & standards
- IEC 60076-1
- IEEE C57.12.90
Related
Related manufacturers
Prolec GE (GE Vernova) · Prolec GE Waukesha · Hitachi Energy USA · Siemens Energy · Eaton · Virginia Transformer Corp
Related components
Technical content is prepared from engineering references, standards frameworks, manufacturer documentation and industry sources. Contractual or compliance decisions should refer to current official standards. TransformerPath Technical Editorial.
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