Standard Test Method for Combustible Gases in the Gas Space of Electrical Apparatus Using Portable Meters

1.1 This test method covers the detection and estimation of combustible gases in the gas blanket above the oil or in gas detector relays in transformers using portable field instruments. It is applicable only with transformers using mineral oil as the dielectric fluid. Gases dissolved in the oil and noncombustible gases are not determined. A method of calibrating the instruments with a known gas mixture is included.

1.2 This test method affords a rough quantitative estimate of the total combustible gases present in a gas mixture. If a more accurate determination of the total amount of combustible gases or a quantitative determination of the individual components is desired, a laboratory analytical method using a gas chromatograph or mass spectrometer should be used.

1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety problems, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. Specific precautionary statements are given in 5.1.