ECN Forum Forums Photo Discussion Forums Photos for General Discussion Transformer hit by lightning

This picture submitted by ECN Member Richard:

I guess i should give some info on this. This transformer feeds a major bookstore that is in most if not all states in the u.s.
The batteries gave out after 25 min. and the 1200 amp backup gen. failed. After change out of the gen. breaker, the store was back online. Also, they will have to see if the batteries will have to be replaced, due to weakening from the lightning strike.

richard,
Are those wires on that transformer supposed to be bare?.

The bare wires that I see look like concentric shields..

Wow, either the lightning blew H1A's bushing completely out of the tank or someone disconnecting it did. I am not sure because H1C is grounded out which someone would have to do with a hot stick. There is oil all over the tank from H1A's bushing well, if that one was done with a hot stick it's probably all over the operator too.

Edit-Upon closer examination H1C's bushing is capped and the cap has a brown charred look like the rest of the equipment. It must not have been connected. Also, H2A's bushing looks broken and about to fall off. Seems like A phase took it pretty hard.