Substation Reliability Tip #09

Mobile Diagnostic Technicians (MDTs)

A well-maintained and serviced transformer can last over a half-century. This kind of longevity can’t be achieved without the regular on-site expertise of field service technicians.

At SDMyers, we call our field service technicians Mobile Diagnostic Technicians, or MDTs for short. MDTs exist for the benefit of our customers. They are the on-site experts whose work goes far beyond pulling a liquid sample. They are vital partners who advocate for maximizing the reliable life of an organization’s transformers. They are responsible for ensuring transformers run smoothly, efficiently, and safely, all essential for achieving 50+ years of operation.

MDTs rely on their 300+ hours of expertise training to identify potential issues. Visual inspections include more than looking for physical damage, such as leaks and rust. To ensure safe and efficient operation, MDTs will evaluate gauges, wiring, external ground connectors, and liquid levels. They also conduct other critical inspections, like infrared scanning using a thermal imaging camera to detect high heat levels.

Ultimately, our electric power equipment is only as good as the people working to keep it up and running.