TRANSFORMER

Transformers are an essential component in power distribution systems and are used to step up or step
down the voltage levels for efficient transmission and distribution of electricity.

Main parts of transformer are:

1) Core: The core is typically made of laminated steel sheets and provides a low-reluctance path
for the magnetic flux generated by the transformer. It helps in reducing magnetic losses and
improving the efficiency of the transformer.
2) Windings: Transformers have two sets of windings: primary and secondary. The primary winding
is connected to the power source and carries the input voltage. The secondary winding is
connected to the load and delivers the output voltage. Windings are usually made of copper or
aluminum conductors and are insulated to prevent short circuits.
3) Insulation: Insulating materials such as paper, varnish, and oil are used to separate the windings
and to insulate them from the core. This prevents electrical breakdown and ensures safe
operation.
4) Tap changer: A tap changer is a device that allows the adjustment of the turns ratio between
the primary and secondary windings. It provides a means to vary the output voltage and
compensate for voltage fluctuations in the power system it is normally provided on HV side to
vary output voltage.
5) Cooling system: Transformers generate heat during operation, which needs to be dissipated to
prevent overheating. Cooling systems can be either natural (air cooling) or forced (using fans or
oil pumps). Some transformers also use cooling fins or radiators to increase heat dissipation.
6) Tank and insulating oil: The tank houses the core, windings, and other internal components of
the transformer. It is usually made of steel and provides mechanical protection and support.
Insulating oil is used to immerse the windings and the core, providing insulation and efficient
cooling.
7) Bushings: Bushings are insulating devices that provide a means to connect the transformer
windings to external circuits. They serve as the entry and exit points for the electrical
connections and ensure proper insulation between the transformer and the external system.
8) Conservator: The conservator is a reservoir connected to the transformer tank that
compensates for the expansion and contraction of the insulating oil due to temperature
variations. It helps maintain a constant oil level and allows for breathing space.
9) Breather: The breather is a device filled with desiccant material (silica gel) that removes
moisture from the air entering and leaving the conservator. It helps in preventing the moisture
content of the insulating oil from increasing.
10) Buchholz relay: This protective device is installed in oil-filled transformers and detects the
presence of gas made by insulation oil caused by heat or oil flow caused by internal faults. It
triggers an alarm or trips the transformer to prevent further damage.
1) When small fault occurs, it alarms.
2) When large fault occurs it shutdown transformer.
TYPES:
Transformers are classified into several types based on their construction, usage, and voltage levels.
Here are the common types of transformers:

Hermetically sealed transformers: when a transformer is sealed type, there is no possibility to oil
overflow.

Power Transformers: These transformers are used in power generation stations, substations, and
industrial applications to step up or step down the voltage levels for efficient power transmission.

Distribution Transformers: They are mainly used to step down high voltage from power lines to lower
voltage levels suitable for distribution to residential and commercial areas.

Instrument Transformers: These transformers are designed to measure high voltage and high current
levels accurately for protective relaying, metering, and control purposes. They include current
transformers (CTs) and potential transformers (PTs).

Current transformer:

In current transformer secondary side is always shorted. In order to reduce core losses.

Auto Transformers: An auto transformer has a single winding that serves as both the primary and
secondary winding. They are used for applications where a small voltage adjustment is required, such as
in voltage regulators.

Isolation Transformers: These transformers are used to provide electrical isolation between the input
and output circuits. They are commonly used in medical equipment and sensitive electronic devices to
protect against electrical noise and voltage spikes.

Step-Up and Step-Down Transformers: Step-up transformers increase the voltage level, while step-
down transformers decrease the voltage level. They are used to match the voltage requirements of
different electrical systems.

Three-Phase Transformers: These transformers are used in three-phase power systems to transfer
electrical power efficiently. They consist of three primary and three secondary windings.

TESTING OF TRANSFORMER:
To ensure transformer is working properly or if it needs maintenance the average life of transformer is
33.5 years. To check the health of transformer we go for some tests:

1) Insulation resistance (IR) test

2) Transformer turn ratio (TTR) test
3) Vector group test
4) Sweep frequency response analysis (SFRA) test
5) Winding resistance (WR) test
6) Short circuit and open circuit test of transformer
7) Capacitance and dissipation factor test/ tan delta test
8) Dielectric response analysis (DRA)
INSULATION RESISTANCE TEST:
1) To test the integrity of winding.
2) Better current insulation= lower current leakages and better safety.

The purpose of this test is to detect the major faults of major insulation in transformer. Major insulation
includes:

1) Insulation between HV and LV

2) Insulation between HV windings and ground
3) Insulation between LV windings and ground

Major insulation faults include:

1) Insulation failure between HV and LV

2) Insulation failure between HV windings and ground
3) Insulation failure between LV windings and ground

INSULATION TESTING:

Firstly, disconnect the power supply and de-energize the transformer. We short all HV windings together
and then short all LV windings together. Note the temperature because high temperature affects the
resistance.

Three readings are taken from transformer:

1) H-XG
2) X-HG
3) HX-G

H=high voltage

X=low voltage

G=ground

If the resistance is in the range mentioned in the standards of NETA table 100.5, then the health of
transformer is in good condition. Otherwise, maintenance is needed.

Vector group of transformers:

The vector group of a transformer is a code used to represent the phase shift between the
primary and secondary windings of the transformer. It describes the connection of the windings
and the polarity relationship between them. The vector group is typically indicated using a
combination of letters and numbers.

The most common vector groups used in power transformers are:

1. Yy: The primary and secondary windings are both connected in a wye configuration.
2. Yd: The primary winding is connected in a wye configuration, and the secondary winding is
connected in a delta configuration.
3. Dy: The primary winding is connected in a delta configuration, and the secondary winding is
connected in a wye configuration.
4. Dd: Both the primary and secondary windings are connected in a delta configuration.

These are just a few examples, and there are other vector group configurations as well, such as
Yz, Zz, and Zd, which are less common.
The vector group of a transformer is important for system operation and protection. It is used
to ensure that the transformers in a power system are properly interconnected and that the
phase angles between them are correct. By matching the vector group of transformers, it is
possible to parallel them and transfer power between them without phase shift issues or
circulating currents.

It's worth noting that the vector group is specific to three-phase transformers, as they are the
most common type used in power systems. Single-phase transformers do not have vector
groups.
Vector group test of transformer:
Following are the vector group testing given below:
1) Dyn11 2) Dyn 1 3) YNd1 4) YNd11
i) Dyn11:
Following test confirms if the transformer has Dyn 11 configuration:

ii) Dyn1
Following test confirms if the transformer has Dyn 1 configuration:

iii) YNd1
Following test confirms if the transformer has Dyn 1 configuration:

iv) YNd11
Following test confirms if the transformer has YNd11 configuration:

Transformer turn ratio test:

Ratio of phase voltage on HV side to the phase voltage on LV side of the transformer.
Ratio = V1/V2 =N1/N2
It is used to detect major faults in minor insulation of a transformer.
Some of the minor insulations are given below:
1) Insulation between turns of HV windings
2) Insulation between turns of LV windings
Major faults of transformer are given below:
1) Insulation failure between windings
2) Insulation failure between windings and ground.
Purpose of ratio test:
1) To find any shorted turns in any of the transformer windings.
2) To check the polarity of single-phase transformer.
3) To detect any open circuit in windings.
TTR=Vph (HV)/ Vph(LV)
TTR must be done on each phase.
For delta connection:
Vph=Vl
For star connection:
Vph=Vl/√ 3

TTR for Dd winding of transformer will be:

1) TTR (Red phase) = VA/Va =A-B/a-b
2) TTR (yellow phase) = VB/Vb=B-C/b-c
3) TTR (blue phase) = VC/Vc=C-A/c-a
TTR for Dyn winding of transformer will be:
1) TTR (Red phase) = VA/Va =A-B/a-n
2) TTR (yellow phase) = VB/Vb=B-C/b-n
3) TTR (blue phase) = VC/Vc=C-A/c-n
Result:

Similarly, if TTR decreases it means N1 decreases or N2 increases so N2 cannot increases by

itself so N1 can decreases which shows that there may be a short circuit in primary side.

SWEEP FREQUENCY RESPONSE ANALYIZE (SFRA) TEST:

Principle:
At variable frequency, A constant Low- Voltage is injected to one end of transformer winding
and output of that voltage is measured at the other end of transformer winding.
Purpose:
1) It is used to detect core movement and core displacement.
2) It is used to detect winding displacements and winding deformations.
3) It also helps in finding broken or even loosened clamping structures.
Concept of RLC in electrical equipment:
Before getting into SFRA test one has to know about RLC in an electrical equipment.
1) All electrical equipment will have R, L, C that is resistance, inductance and capacitance.
2) Some electrical equipment will have resistance very less or even zero compared to
inductance and capacitance.
3) Some electrical equipment will have capacitance very less or even zero compared to
inductance and resistance.
4) Some electrical equipment will have inductance very less or even zero compared to
resistance and capacitance.
5) All electrical equipment is considered as RLC Circuit. Each equipment has their own
unique signature like human fingerprint.
6) SFRA test is also known as finger print test.
RLC in Transformer:
1) R = Resistance in conductor
2) L = Inductance in winding coils
3) C = Capacitance in insulating medium (Oil) etc.
If transformer is affected by huge fault current or earth quake or tap changer broken or
during shipment transformer get some shocks etc, then original value of RLC value of
transformer get affected.
“It can be tested by SFRA Test.”
RLC role in transformer:
1) Transformer winding is separated from other winding by paper insulation. Which act as
dielectric, also transformer oil act as insulating medium which forms capacitance C.
2) Transformer conductor and windings forms resistance and inductance.
Concept of SFRA Test:
1) Injecting a signal to the one end of transformer winding terminal and measuring the
same signal at the other end of transformer winding terminal.
2) Here the applied signal is frequency with various levels at 10V AC.
3) Applied frequency varies from 20 Hz to 2 MHz when test start frequency slowly
increases from 20 Hz to 2 MHz step by step.
4) When test start voltage will be at 10 V AC only (input). As frequency increases, we will
get different output voltages at different frequencies based on RLC of transformer.
5) Through measurement cable one will get response frequency as output of this test.
SGS uses OMICRON FRANEO 800 test kit to test transformer.
Test Procedure:
1) Transformer oil should be filled, make sure neutral should be disconnected from earth.
2) Transformer bushing should be connected, and it should be cleaned well.
3) Transformer core should be earthed, tap position should be at 1.
4) Test kit and transformer should be earthed.
5) Bushing should be earth with braid earth cable.
6) Test kit will have source cable, reference cable and measurement cable.
7) Select 10V AC and 20 Hz to 2 MHz from the test kit for injection after selection of
voltage frequency start the test kit within 40 sec results will come in graph format.
SFRA test connection for LV side:
Test connections:
1) Here shown test connection for LV side X1-N
2) For testing X1 windings, one should give connection according to shown diagram.
3) HV side should be kept open
4) Voltage and frequency circulation shown in red arrows.
5) Test kit and transformer body should be earth.
6) Tap changer position should be at 1.
7) One can also observe actual bushing connection using C-clamp.
 Importance of frequency ranges:
1) 20 Hz to 2 kHz: It deals with core winding inductance. It will detect problems in core
deformation, core deformation etc.
2) 2 kHz to 20 kHz: It deals with bulk winding component. It will detect problems like
winding movement.
3) 20 kHz to 400 kHz: It deals with main winding. It helps in detection of deformation
with in main windings and tap windings.
4) 400 kHz to 2 MHz: It deals with main winding, tap winding and internal leads. It
helps in detection of movement of the main and tap windings.
Result:

Standard:

Follow guide from IEEE C57.149

Reference video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YCPEKtnfkDY

Winding resistance test:

The winding resistance test is performed to measure the DC resistance of the transformer
windings. Here's a simplified explanation of the test procedure and the expected results:
Test Procedure:
1. Ensure the transformer is de-energized, isolated, and properly grounded.
2. Select a suitable Megger device capable of providing a low-voltage DC test current for
measuring resistance.
3. Connect the Megger leads to the terminals of each winding (primary and secondary) of the
transformer. Ensure proper polarity.
4. Set the Megger to the appropriate test range and ensure it is calibrated and functioning
correctly.
5. Apply the test voltage and allow the reading to stabilize. The Megger will display the
resistance value.
6. Record the resistance reading for each winding and make a note of the associated winding.
7. Repeat the measurements for all windings of the transformer.
8. Compare the measured resistance values with the manufacturer's specified values or
baseline measurements.
9. Evaluate the results based on any significant deviations or abnormalities observed.
10. In WR test kit injects current about 50A at low voltage.
Important considerations:

- Ensure proper safety precautions are followed, such as using appropriate personal protective
equipment (PPE) and adhering to electrical safety guidelines.
- Verify the accuracy of the Megger device by performing a calibration check before the test.
- It's recommended to conduct the test at a standardized temperature, typically around 20°C
(68°F), or adjust the readings based on the measured temperature using a temperature
correction factor.
.
Expected Results:

1. The measured resistance values should generally match the manufacturer's specified values
or the baseline measurements within an acceptable tolerance.
2. Significant deviations in resistance values could indicate potential issues, such as winding
faults, poor connections, or deterioration of the winding conductors.
3. A significantly higher resistance value in one winding compared to others may indicate a
problem like a partial turn short or a broken conductor.
4. In a three-phase transformer, the resistance values of the three windings should be relatively
balanced. Significant imbalances could suggest an issue with one or more windings.
5. The resistance values should be within an acceptable range based on the transformer's
design, rating, and temperature.
If the resistance is getting low as the tap value gets lowers then it may a sign of better winding
resistance.
Signs for test:
To determine if there are signs to check the winding resistance of a transformer, you can look
for the following indicators:
1. Abnormal Temperature Rise: If the transformer exhibits unusually high operating
temperatures, it could be a sign of increased resistive losses due to issues like winding faults or
poor connections. Monitoring the winding resistance can help assess the potential cause of the
temperature rise.
2. Unexpected Load Imbalance: If there is an imbalance in the load distribution across the
transformer phases, it can indicate issues such as uneven winding resistance or faulty
connections. Monitoring the resistance values can help identify the cause of load imbalances.
3. Unexplained Voltage Drops: If there are significant voltage drops across the transformer
terminals during normal operation, it may indicate increased resistance in the windings.
Checking the resistance values can help determine if the windings are the source of the voltage
drop.
4. Previous Maintenance or Repair: If the transformer has undergone recent maintenance or
repair work on the windings or connections, it is advisable to check the winding resistance as a
part of post-maintenance testing. This ensures that the work was performed correctly and that
there are no lingering issues.
5. Periodic Maintenance Schedule: Including winding resistance testing as a part of routine
maintenance can help detect potential problems early on. Regularly monitoring the resistance
values can identify any changes or deviations over time, allowing for proactive maintenance
and preventing potential failures.

Short and open circuit test of transformer:

These two transformer tests are performed to find the parameters of equivalent circuit of
transformer and losses of the transformer. Open circuit test and short circuit test on
transformer are very economical and convenient because they are performed without
actually loading of the transformer.

Short circuit on transformer:

The connection diagram for short circuit test or impedance test on transformer is as
shown in the figure below. The LV side of transformer is short circuited and wattmeter (W),
voltmeter (V) and ammeter (A) are connected on the HV side of the transformer. Voltage is
applied to the HV side and increased from the zero to 20% of HV current ratings to get
readings.
The voltage applied for full load current is very small as compared to rated voltage. Hence,
core loss due to small applied voltage can be neglected. Thus, the wattmeter reading can
be taken as copper loss in the transformer.

Open circuit test on transformer:

Open circuit test or no-load test on a transformer is performed to determine 'no load loss
(core loss)' and 'no load current I0'. The circuit diagram for open circuit test is shown in
the figure below

Usually high voltage (HV) winding is kept open and the low voltage (LV) winding is
connected to its normal supply. A wattmeter (W), ammeter (A) and voltmeter (V) are
connected to the LV winding as shown in the figure. Now, applied voltage is slowly
increased from zero to normal rated value of the LV side with the help of a variac (variable
ratio auto transformer). When the applied voltage reaches to the rated value of the LV
winding, readings from all the three instruments are taken.
The ammeter reading gives the no load current I 0. As I0 itself is very small, the voltage drops
due to this current can be neglected.

The input power is indicated by the wattmeter (W). And as the other side of transformer is
open circuited, there is no output power. Hence, this input power only consists of core
losses and copper losses. As described above, no-load current is so small that these copper
losses can be neglected. Hence, now the input power is almost equal to the core losses.

Note:
core losses depend on voltage and winding losses depend on current.

1) No load current is responsible for core losses.

2) Load current in I^2R is responsible for copper winding losses.

Difference between Short circuit test and winding resistance test:

Short Circuit Test:

1. Purpose: Determines copper losses (I²R losses) in the transformer.

2. Load Condition: Secondary winding is short-circuited, creating a low-impedance condition.

3. Test Voltage: Reduced voltage (typically around 5-10% of rated voltage) is applied to the
primary winding.

4. Information Obtained: Copper losses and equivalent impedance referred to the primary side
are measured.

5. Focus: Assesses the transformer's performance under rated current conditions and the
impact of copper losses on its efficiency.

Winding Resistance Test:

1. Purpose: Measures the DC resistance of the transformer windings.

2. Load Condition: No load or minimal current flow in the secondary; the primary winding is
energized with DC.

3. Test Voltage: Direct current (DC) is used to measure the resistance.

4. Information Obtained: The DC resistance of the winding is measured, helping to identify

abnormalities, assess winding quality, and monitor transformer health over time.
5. Focus: Focuses on the condition of the transformer's windings, connections, and conductor
material, rather than determining losses under rated current conditions.

Capacitance and dissipation factor test OR CNDA OR power factor test OR

tan delta test:

The tan delta test, also known as the dielectric dissipation factor or power factor test, is a type
of insulation test performed on electrical equipment and materials. It is used to assess the
condition of the insulation by measuring the phase difference (angle) between the voltage
applied and the resulting current in the insulation.
When conducting a tan delta test, two types of tests are performed on the specimen:
1. Unearthed Specimen Test (UST):
In this test, the specimen (such as a cable or an insulating material) is not grounded. The test
measures the tan delta between the voltage applied to the specimen and the resulting current,
which helps in determining the insulation's quality.
2. Grounded Specimen Test (GST):
In this test, the specimen is grounded, and the tan delta is measured between the voltage
applied and the current flowing through the grounded specimen. This test is useful for
detecting defects or potential breakdowns in the insulation when it is connected to a grounding
system.
There are three measurable capacitances in transformer:
1) capacitance between HV windings and ground
2) capacitance between LV and HV windings
3) capacitance between LV winding and ground
The formula of tan delta is:
Tanδ = IR/IC
Where Ic is Capacitive current and IR is resistive current.
Reasons of power factor loss:
1) Aging of transformer
2) Dust
3) Moisture

Solution:
we can keep transformer windings in oven to absorb moisture so it may correct power factor
angle deviation.
Dielectric Response Analysis (DRA):
Dielectric Frequency Response (DFR), well-known as Frequency Domain Spectroscopy (FDS),
is now a days becoming more popular as effective tool for diagnosis of power transformer paper
insulation and estimation of moisture content in cellulose paper and oil.

Effects of water:
Water can produce number of factors produce in transformer:

1) Bubbling
2) Partial discharge inception voltage
3) Breakdown voltage
4) Accelerated aging of cellulose
1) Bubbling:
In a transformer bubbling is result of small water vapors of bubble coming out from the paper in
a transformer and floating up into the oil. They decrease the strength of dielectric strength of
the oil a breakdown may occur or partial discharge may happen.
2) Partial discharge:
Partial discharges can occur at lower voltages. Water decreases the PD inception voltage.
“Partial discharge in transformers refers to localized electrical discharges that occur within the
insulation system of the transformer.”
3) Breakdown voltage:
Water also decreases the breakdown voltage of oil. It depends on moisture in the oil and on
temperature change.
4) Accelerated Aging of cellulose:
Fourth effect of water is that it accelerates the aging of cellulose. Cellulose is one of the
insulating materials in transformer. Insulation paper is made up of cellulose. Water decreases
the mechanical strength of cellulose. A measure of mechanical strength is the degree of
polymerization value.
Cellulose tells us about the strength of cellulose molecules. Cellulose consists of glucose rings.
The high number of glucose rings means high number of polymerizations.
When cellulose is new polymerization value is 1200 and 200 value is considered it lost its
mechanical strength. hydrolysis and condensation decrease mechanical strength of paper
(cellulose).
Procedure:

1. Test Setup: Connect the equipment to the dielectric response analyzer and apply an
AC voltage signal across the insulation.
2. Measurement Acquisition: Measure the current and phase angle at each frequency
point during the frequency sweep.
3. Data Analysis: Analyze the measured data to calculate parameters such as
capacitance, power factor, and dielectric dissipation factor.
Expected Results:

1. Dielectric Spectrum: Obtain a smooth and consistent dielectric spectrum without

significant deviations or abnormalities.
2. Comparative Analysis: Compare the results with reference values or previous tests to
identify deviations indicating insulation degradation or moisture ingress.
3. Diagnostic Assessment: Assess the insulation's overall health, detect partial discharge
activity, and predict potential failures. Make informed maintenance decisions based on
the analysis.
 Standard:
The IEC rates moisture saturations of more than 6 % as "moderately wet", which is
equivalent to a moisture content of approximately 2.2 %. In this area the water
molecules become more and more active, increasing the dangerous effects of water.

For better understanding:

Reference web: https://www.scribd.com/doc/316496127/DIRANA-Application-Guide-Measuring-

and-Analyzing-Power-Transformers