What Is Furan Analysis?
Quick answer — Furan analysis measures the furanic compounds in the transformer oil that are released as the paper (cellulose) insulation degrades. The furan content is a direct indicator of the state of aging of the solid insulation, so it complements DGA — which looks at the oil — by telling you how much of the paper has degraded. Rising furans indicate accelerated paper aging or a local hot spot.
What is furan analysis and what does it tell you?
What it measures
Furans are the by-products of cellulose (paper) degradation. The most common, 2FAL (2-furfuraldehyde), is measured in the oil and its level indicates the degree of paper aging.
Why it is useful
DGA sees the gas in the oil, but furans specifically show the condition of the paper insulation — the aging/damage that is the real life-limiting factor.
Interpreting
A rising furan level (or a sudden jump) indicates accelerated aging or a hot spot; combined with DGA, oil tests and a DP sample, it helps you decide the remaining life and the next action.
References & standards
- IEC 60599
- IEEE C57.104
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.
Source transformers for this application
Submit an RFQ or browse manufacturers and components.
Submit an RFQ Get Verified