ABB & Oktogrid's Digitally Integrated Transformer Sensor

ABB Electrification Service and Danish start-up Oktogrid have unveiled an innovative solution for power transformers.

This collaboration introduces the ABB Ability Asset Manager for Transformers (TRAFCOM), a technology geared towards modernising archaic electrical grids and preparing them for the green energy shift.

The energy transition calls for enhanced grid performance, availability and reliability.

TRAFCOM, with its next-generation sensor, meets these demands by monitoring transformer performance regardless of their type, make or age.

This unified system not only keeps a keen eye on transformer performance but also enhances it with real-time monitoring from a single interface.

One standout feature of TRAFCOM is its rapid data transmission to the cloud, which minimises maintenance interruptions.

Additionally, it boasts a magnetic mounting mechanism that can be attached to transformers in just 15 minutes, without the need for any tools or screws.

Previously, the sensory monitoring of electric network transformers was a costly and complex procedure, often bypassed by manufacturers due to its prohibitive factors.

However, ABB and Oktogrid have now made this technology accessible and cost-effective.

Mahmoud Abdelkhalek, Global Product Manager at ABB Electrification Service, says: "We know there are many electrical network transformers out there, which have never been monitored in 15 to 20 years, due to the high costs and complexity of installing sensoring technology.

"ABB Ability Asset Manager for Transformers overcomes these barriers as a simple and cost-effective way to modernise the grid.”

Insightful monitoring and advanced features

TRAFCOM surpasses other market options by offering deeper analysis with its ability to measure four crucial dimensions of transformer performance.

This enhanced monitoring allows manufacturers to fully grasp the operational capacity of their transformers.

The real-time, cloud-based nature of TRAFCOM's analysis enables a proactive approach to maintenance.

It arms manufacturers with the ability to predict and prevent failures, detect early signs of malfunction and implement predictive maintenance strategies.

"Rising energy consumption and the need to generate more cost-effective power stresses the electricity network and brings increased risk, but understanding how the transformer is performing means that plant and operational managers can plan and improve their processes with confidence.” Mahmoud adds. 

The digitalisation of transformers not only streamlines operations but also assists manufacturers in reducing carbon emissions, enhancing power performance, stability and optimising old equipment.

"As industries double-down on their sustainability mandates, greater measurement capabilities are required to inform and shape their decarbonisation strategies," says Golam Sadeghnia, CEO of Oktogrid,

"Through our partnership with ABB, we’ve been able to create a solution that eliminates this transparency gap as we take pivotal steps toward a sustainable and resilient energy future."

ABB and Oktogrid: A strong collaboration

This initiative is not the first instance of collaboration between ABB and Oktogrid.

The two entities previously partnered in 2023 to develop a pilot solution aimed at extending the life of ageing electrical assets.

This solution digitises electrical infrastructure with real-time and remote performance monitoring, potentially extending equipment life by up to 40 years while simultaneously reducing carbon emissions and enhancing reliable power supplies.

ABB's vast experience in industry, electrification and digitalisation has played a critical role in bringing this pilot solution to commercial readiness.

“I am confident that ABB’s investment in Oktogrid, when combined with our technology and in-depth industry insights, will help industry leapfrog the much-needed upgrade to aging electrical grids to meet the demands for higher power performance, reliability and availability,” says Stuart Thompson, Electrification Service Division President, ABB.

“This partnership with Oktogrid exemplifies our approach to collaborating with innovative start-ups who have the shared goal of developing technology that drives smart, safe and sustainable outcomes for our customers.”

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