BEE304 Module-2_ Three-Phase Transformer

Module-2
Syllabus:
Three-phase Transformers: Introduction, Constructional features of three-phase transformers.
Transformer connection for three-phase operation– star/star, delta/delta, and star/delta, comparative
features. Labelling of three-phase transformer terminals.
Parallel Operation of Transformers: Necessity of Parallel operation, conditions for parallel operation–
Single phase and three phases. Load sharing in case of similar and dissimilar transformers. Numerical.
Autotransformers and Tap changing transformers: Introduction to autotransformer-copper
economy, equivalent circuit, no load, and on-load tap changing transformers. Numerical.

2a. Three-Phase Transformers

Introduction, Constructional features of three-phase transformers.

The three-phase system is used to generate, transmit, and distribute electrical power. It generates
power on a large scale to meet the needs of industries and commercial establishments. Three identical
single-phase transformers are connected suitably or combined on a single core to form a three-phase
system. Based on various types of industrial needs, the step-up and step-down transformers are
employed for generating, transmission, and distributing the electric power. The building of a three-
phase transformer unit is economical as it consumes less material compared to connecting three
individual single-phase transformers. Additionally, the three-phase system transfers AC power
instead of DC and is simple to construct.

A three-phase transformer consists of three primary coils and three secondary coils and is represented
as 3- phase or 3ɸ. A three-phase system can be constructed using three individual identical single-
phase transformers, and such a 3-phase transformer is known as the bank of three transformers. On
the other hand, the three-phase transformer can be built on a single core. The windings of a
transformer can be connected in either delta or wye configurations. The working of the 3-phase system
is similar to a single-phase transformer,and they are normally employed in power generation plants.

Core Type Construction:

In this type of construction, there are three cores and two yokes. Each core has both primary and
secondary windings wounded spirally as shown in the figure. Each leg of the core carries high voltage
as well as low voltage windings. The core is laminated to minimize eddy current losses on core and
yoke. As it is easier to laminate low voltage (LV) winding than the high voltage (HV) winding. The
LV windings are positioned nearthe core with appropriate insulation and oil ducts in between them

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BEE304 Module-2_ Three-Phase Transformer

whereas, the HV windings are placed abovethe LV windings with appropriate insulation and oil ducts
between them.

Shell Type Transformer:

The three-phase shell type transformer is generally constructed by stacking three individual single-
phase transformers. Three phases of a shell-type transformer are independent than the core-type
transformer, while each phase has an individual magnetic circuit. These magnetic circuits are parallel
to each other and flux induced by each winding is in phase. Shell type transformer is highly preferred
as the voltage waveforms are less distorted.

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BEE304 Module-2_ Three-Phase Transformer

Working of Three-Phase Transformers

The figure below shows the three-phase transformer, wherein three cores are placed at 120˚ from
each other. This figure is simplified to show only primary windings and their connection to the three-
phase power supply.As soon as the three-phase supply is excited, the currents IR, IY, and IB are
carried by the primary windings and thus inducing the fluxes ɸR, ɸY, and ɸB individually in each
core. The center leg will carry the sum of allthe fluxes, and the center leg combined all the legs of a
core.
For instance, if the sum of the currents IR+IY+IB is zero in a three-phase system, then the sum of all
the threefluxes also becomes zero, resulting in the center leg carrying no flux. Therefore, removing the
center leg makesno difference for other transformer conditions.

Choice between single unit three-phase transformer and a bank of three single-phase
transformers:

We know that the very basic purpose of a Transformer is to transmit power at two different voltage
levels. For example, if a generating station is generating electrical power at 21 kV and evacuates it
power at 400 kV then a three-phase transformer of voltage rating 21 kV / 400 kV is used. But the
question that arises here is whetherwe should opt for a single three-phase Transformer or bank of three
single-phase Transformer. Well, mostly you might have seen a single three-phase transformer due to
economy. But this does not mean that a bank of three single-phase transformers is never used. If ever
you get a chance to visit 700 MW or 1000 MW power plant, you will see the use of a bank of three
single-phase transformers instead of a single three-phase transformer. Generally, for large power-
generating units, bank of 3 single-phase transformers is preferred. The main reasonis the size and
transportation. Let us take an example for better understanding. Consider a 700 MW generating
station where we need to choose a generator transformer (GT) to evacuate power to 400 kV Grid.

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BEE304 Module-2_ Three-Phase Transformer

The size ofa single three phase transformer of 823 MVA (700 / 0.85) will be quite high and hence
will not be easily transportable from the Transformer factory to the site. Thus for this case, bank of
three single-phase transformers is used. There are many other advantages of using bank of three
single-phase transformers like the ease in maintenance, less cost of spare inventory requirement etc.
Difference between Single-Phase and Three-Phase Transformers:

Three-Phase Transformer Connection:

Primary and secondary windings of three phase transformers as three phase windings can be connected in
different ways such as in star or delta.

1. Star-Star (Y-Y) connection 2. Delta – Delta (Δ - Δ) connection

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BEE304 Module-2_ Three-Phase Transformer

3. Star-Delta (Y - Δ) connection 4. Delta-Star (Δ - Y) connection

5. Open Delta or V connection 6. Scott connection or T-T connection

Star-Star Connection:

In this type of connection, both the primary and secondary windings are connected in star as shown in
above Fig. This connection proves to be economical for small high voltage transformers as phase voltage
is 1|√3 times that of line voltage, the number of turns per phase and the quantity of insulation required is
minimum. The ratio of line voltages on the primary and secondary sides is the same as the transformation
ratio of each transformer.
The main difficulty with this type of connection is that it can work satisfactorily if the load is balanced.
But the neutral point shifts which makes phase voltages unequal if the load is unbalanced.

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BEE304 Module-2_ Three-Phase Transformer

Star-star transformer is formed in a 3 phase transformer by connecting one terminal of each phase of
individual side, together. The common terminal is indicated by the suffix 1 in the figure below. If terminal
with suffix 1 in both primary and secondary are used as common terminal, voltages of primary and
secondary are in the same phase. That is why this connection is called a degree connection or 00 –
connection.
If the terminals with suffix 1 is connected together in HV side as common point and the terminals with
suffix 2 in LV side are connected together as common point, the voltages in primary and secondary will be
in opposite phase. Hence, star-star transformer connection is called 1800-connection, of three phase
transformer.

If K is the turn-or transformation ratio then the phase voltage on the secondary side is given as,

Secondary Phase Voltage,

The line voltage VL2 on secondary side given as,

Advantages:

1. Due to star connection, phase voltage is 1√3 times line voltage. Hence less number circuits of turns
are required. Also the stress on insulation is less. This makes the connection economical for small
high-voltage purposes.
2. Due to the star Connection, phase current is the same as line current. Hence windings have to carry
high currents. This makes the cross-section of the windings high. Thus the windings are
mechanically strong and windings can bear heavy loads and short-circuit
3. There is no phase shift between the primary. and secondary voltages.
4. As neutral is available, it is suitable for a three-phase, four-wire system.

Disadvantages:

1. If the load on the secondary side is unbalanced then the performance of this connection is not
satisfactory then the shifting of the neutral point is possible. To prevent this, the star point of the
primary is required to be connected to the star point of the generator.
2. Even though the star or neutral point of the primary is earthed, the third harmonic present in the
alternator voltage may appear on the secondary side. This causes distortion in the secondary phase
voltages.

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BEE304 Module-2_ Three-Phase Transformer

Delta-Delta Connection:

In this type of connection, both the three-phase primary and secondary windings are connected in delta as
shown in the above Fig.

The voltages on primary and secondary sides can be shown on the phasor diagram as shown in the below
Fig.

In delta-delta transformer, 1 suffixed terminals of each phase primary winding will be connected with 2
suffixed terminal of next phase primary winding.

If primary is HV side, then A1 will be connected to B2, B1 will be connected to C2 and C1 will be
connected to A2. Similarly in LV side 1 suffixed terminals of each phase winding will be connected with
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BEE304 Module-2_ Three-Phase Transformer

2 suffixed terminals of next phase winding. That means, a 1 will be connected to b2, b1 will be connected
to c2 and c1 will be connected to a2.

If transformer leads are taken out from primary and secondary 2 suffixed terminals of the
winding, then there will be no phase difference between similar line voltages in primary and
secondary. This delta delta transformer connection is zero degree connection or 00-connection.
But in the LV side of the transformer, if, a2 is connected to b1, b2 is connected to c1 and c2 is
connected to a1. The secondary leads of the transformer are taken out from 2 suffixed
terminals of LV windings, and then similar line voltages in primary and secondary will be in
phase opposition. This connection is called 1800-connection, of three phase transformer.

Advantages:
1. In order to get secondary voltage as sinusoidal, the magnetizing current of transformer
must contain a third harmonic component. The delta connection provides a closed path
for the circulation of the third harmonic component of the current. The flux remains
sinusoidal which results in sinusoidal voltages.
2. Even if the load is unbalanced the three-phase voltages remain constant. Thus it allows
unbalanced loading also.
3. The important advantage with this type of connection is that if there is a bank of single-
phase transformers connected in delta-delta fashion and if one of the Transformers is
disabled then the supply can be continued with the remaining two of course with
reduced efficiency.
4. There is no distortion in the secondary voltages. Due to the delta connection, phase
voltage is same as line voltage hence windings have more turns. But phase current is

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BEE304 Module-2_ Three-Phase Transformer

1/√3 times the line current. Hence the cross section of the windings is very low. This
makes the connection economical for low voltage & and transformers.
Disadvantages:
1. Due to the absence of a neutral point it is not suitable for three three-phase four wire
system.

Star-delta transformer:

Here in star-delta transformer, star connection in HV side is formed by connecting all the 1 suffixed
terminals together as common point and transformer primary leads are taken out from 2 suffixed terminals
of primary.

The delta connection in LV side is formed by connecting 1 suffixed terminals of each phase LV winding
with 2 suffixed terminal of next phase LV winding. More clearly, a1 is connected to b2, b1 is connected
to c2 and c1 is connected to a2. The secondary (here it considered as LV) leads are taken out from 2
suffixed ends of the secondary windings of transformer. The transformer connection diagram is shown
in the figure beside. It is seen from the figure that the sum of the voltages in delta side is zero. This is a

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BEE304 Module-2_ Three-Phase Transformer

must as otherwise closed delta would mean a short circuit. It is also observed from the phasor diagram
that, phase to neutral voltage (equivalent star basis) on the delta side lags by − 30o to the phase to
neutral voltage on the star side; this is also the phase relationship between the respective line to line
voltages. This star delta transformer connection is therefore known as – 300-connection. Star-delta +
300-connection is also possible by connecting secondary terminals in following sequence. a 2 is
connected to b1, b2 is connected to c1 and c2 is connected to a1. The secondary leads of transformer are
taken out from 2 suffixed terminals of LV windings.

Advantages:

1. The primary side is star connected. Hence fewer turns are required. This makes the connection
economical for large high-voltage step-down power transformers.
2. The neutral available on the primary can be earthed to avoid distortion.
3. Large unbalanced loads can be handled satisfactorily.

Disadvantages: In this type of connection, the secondary voltage is not in phase with the primary.
Hence it is not possible to operate this connection in parallel with star-star or delta-delta connected
transformer.

Comparative statement of star/star, delta/delta, and star/delta:

In the three-phase transformers, the phase voltage ratio is the same as the turn ratio. However, due to the
different types of connections, the ratio of line voltages is different relationships between voltages and
currents for various types of connections.
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BEE304 Module-2_ Three-Phase Transformer

1. The primary line voltage is VL volts.

2. The primary line current is IL amperes.
3. Phase transformation ratio is K,
𝑉 𝑁
𝐾 = 𝑉2 = 𝑁2 Where V2 and V1 are phase voltages.
1 1
4. Loads are balanced.
5. Loads are purely resistive i.e. having unity power factor
6. Thore are no losses and the transformers are ideal in behaviour.

Type of Primary Side Secondary Side

connection Line Phase Phase Phase Phase Line Line
voltage voltage Current Voltage Current voltage Current
Star-Star VL 𝑉𝐿 IL 𝐾𝑉𝐿 𝐼𝐿 KVL 𝐼𝐿
√3 √3 𝐾 𝐾
Delta-Delta VL VL 𝐼𝐿 KVL 𝐼𝐿 KVL 𝐼𝐿
√3 𝐾√3 √3
Star-Delta VL 𝑉𝐿 IL 𝐾𝑉𝐿 𝐼𝐿 𝐾𝑉𝐿 𝐼𝐿
√3 √3 𝐾 √3 √3
Delta-Star VL VL 𝐼𝐿 KVL 𝐼𝐿 √3𝑘𝑣𝐿 𝐼𝐿
√3 𝐾√3 𝐾√3

Labelling of Transformer:
The capital letters are used to label the terminals of each phase on H.V side. Generally A, B, and C are
used for three phases. While small letters are used for labelling the terminals of each phase on LV side.
Generally a, b and c are for three phases.
According to the polarities, the terminals are also labelled. Such terminal polarities are labelled using the
suffix 1 and 2. The positive polarities on both are indicated by suffix 2 while the negative polarities on both
sides are indicated by suffix 1. The labelling of terminals for phase B are shown in the Fig. Similarly the
labelling for the terminals of other phases of three transformer is done.

For three phase star-star connection the labelling of transformer as shown in the figure.

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BEE304 Module-2_ Three-Phase Transformer

2b. Parallel Operation pf Transformer:

Necessity of parallel operation:

The need for parallel operation of transformers can be stated as,

1. When the load is higher than the ratings of the individual transformers parallel operation of smaller
units share a high capacity load.
2. To make the power system more reliable, parallel operation is needed. If any one unit develops a
fault, it can be removed and other units in parallel can maintain the supply.
3. According to the demand for power, the transformers in parallel can be switched ON or OFF. This
the transformer losses and makes the overall system more efficient and economical.
4. When the number Of transformers are connected in parallel, then the cost of a standby unit is much
less.

Parallel Operation of Transformers:

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BEE304 Module-2_ Three-Phase Transformer

The transformers are connected in parallel when the load on them is more than the rating of the individual
transformers. Several smaller units are operated in parallel which share a common load. Thus it is avoided
that the total load is supplied by a single unit due to the use of parallel operation. The parallel operation is
advantageous in the sense that the spare parts can be used interchangeably, and their storage is easy.

From Fig. primary windings are connected to supply bus bars while secondary windings are connected to
load bus bars.

Advantages of using transformers in parallel:

1. To maximize electrical power system efficiency: Generally electrical power transformer gives
the maximum efficiency at full load. If we run numbers of transformers in parallel, we can switch
on only those transformers which will give the total demand by running nearer to its full load rating
for that time. When load increases, we can switch none by one other transformer connected in
parallel to fulfill the total demand. In this way we can run the system with maximum efficiency.
2. To maximize electrical power system availability: If numbers of transformers run in parallel, we
can shut down any one of them for maintenance purpose. Other parallel transformers in system will
serve the load without total interruption of power.
3. To maximize power system reliability: If any one of the transformers run in parallel, is tripped
due to fault of other parallel transformers is the system will share the load, hence power supply may
not be interrupted if the shared loads do not make other transformers over loaded.
4. To maximize electrical power system flexibility: There is always a chance of increasing or
decreasing future demand of power system. If it is predicted that power demand will be increased
in future, there must be a provision of connecting transformers in system in parallel to fulfill the
extra demand because, it is not economical from business point of view to install a bigger rated
single transformer by forecasting the increased future demand as it is unnecessary investment of
money. Again if future demand is decreased, transformers running in parallel can be removed from
system to balance the capital investment and its return.

Conditions for parallel operation:

Certain conditions have to be met before two or more transformers are connected in parallel and share a
common load satisfactorily. They are,

1. The voltage ratio must be the same.

2. The per unit impedance of each machine on its own base must be the same.
3. The polarity must be the same, so that there is no circulating current between the transformers.
4. The phase sequence must be the same and no phase difference must exist between the voltages of
the two transformers.

• Same voltage ratio : Generally the turns ratio and voltage ratio are taken to be the same. If the
ratio is large there can be considerable error in the voltages even if the turns ratios are the same.
When the primaries are connected to same bus bars, if the secondaries do not show the same
voltage, paralleling them would result in a circulating current between the secondaries. Reflected
circulating current will be there on the primary side also. Thus even without connecting a load
considerable current can be drawn by the transformers and they produce copper losses. In two
identical transformers with percentage impedance of 5 percent, a no-load voltage difference of one
percent will result in a circulating current of 10 percent of full load current. This circulating current
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BEE304 Module-2_ Three-Phase Transformer

gets added to the load current when the load is connected resulting in unequal sharing of the load.
In such cases the combined full load of the two transformers can never be met without one
transformer getting overloaded.
• Per unit impedance: Transformers of different ratings may be required to operate in parallel. If
they have to share the total load in proportion to their ratings the larger machine has to draw more
current. The voltage drop across each machine has to be the same by virtue of their connection at
the input and the output ends. Thus the larger machines have smaller impedance and smaller
machines must have larger ohmic impedance. Thus the impedances must be in the inverse ratios of
the ratings. As the voltage drops must be the same the per unit impedance of each transformer on
its own base, must be equal. In addition if active and reactive power are required to be shared in
proportion to the ratings the impedance angles also must be the same. Thus we have the requirement
that per unit resistance and per unit reactance of both the transformers must be the same for proper
load sharing.
• Polarity of connection: The polarity of connection in the case of single phase transformers can
be either same or opposite. Inside the loop formed by the two secondaries the resulting voltage
must be zero. If wrong polarity is chosen the two voltages get added and short circuit results. In
the case of polyphase banks it is possible to have permanent phase error between the phases with
substantial circulating current. Such transformer banks must not be connected in parallel. The
turns ratios in such groups can be adjusted to give very close voltage ratios but phase errors
cannot be compensated. Phase error of 0.6 degree gives rise to one percent difference in voltage.
Hence poly phase transformers belonging to the same vector group alone must be taken for
paralleling.
• Phase sequence: The phase sequence of operation becomes relevant only in the case of poly
phase systems. The poly phase banks belonging to same vector group can be connected in
parallel. A transformer with +30° phase angle however can be paralleled with the one with - 30°
phase angle, the phase sequence is reversed for one of them both at primary and secondary
terminals. If the phase sequences are not the same then the two transformers cannot be connected
in parallel even if they belong to same vector group. The phase sequence can be found out by the
use of a phase sequence indicator.

Load sharing in case of similar transformers: (Equal Voltage Ratio)

The circuit diagram of two single-phase transformer A and B connected in parallel are shown below:

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BEE304 Module-2_ Three-Phase Transformer

Let,
al is the turn ratio of the transformer A
a2 is the turn ratio of transformer B
ZA is the equivalent impedance of the transformer A referred to secondary
ZB is the equivalent impedance of the transformer B referred to secondary
ZL is the load impedance across the secondary
IA is the current supplied to the load by the secondary of the transformer A
IB is the current supplied to the load by the secondary of the transformer B
VL is the secondary load voltage
IL is the load current

By Kirchhoff’s Voltage Law,

EA – ZAIA -V2 =0
EB – ZBIB -V2 =0
EA – ZAIA = V2 .......(1)
EB – ZBIB = V2 .......(2)

Equating equation (1) and (2)

E A – Z A IA = EB – ZBIB

Z A IA = ZBIB

Voltage across ZA and voltage across ZB is same

𝐼𝐴 𝑧𝐴
=
𝐼𝐵 𝑧𝐵

Using current division rule

𝑍𝐵
𝐼𝐴 = 𝐼
𝑍𝐴 + 𝑍𝐵
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BEE304 Module-2_ Three-Phase Transformer

𝑍𝐴
𝐼𝐵 = 𝐼
𝑍𝐴 + 𝑍𝐵

Multiply above equation with V2

𝑍𝐴
𝑉2 𝐼𝐴 = 𝑉2 𝐼𝐿
𝑍𝐴 + 𝑍𝐵

𝑍𝐵
𝑉2 𝐼𝐵 = 𝑉2 𝐼𝐿
𝑍𝐴 + 𝑍𝐵

𝑍𝐵
Load Shared by Transformer A, 𝑆𝐴 = 𝑆
𝑍𝐴 + 𝑍𝐵

𝑍𝐴
Load Shared by Transformer B, 𝑆𝐵 = 𝑆 𝑍
𝐴 + 𝑍𝐵

Load sharing in case of dissimilar transformers: (Unequal Voltage Ratio)

The voltage ratios of two transformers are not equal. Let us consider voltage ratio of transformer 1 is
slightly more than 2. So that induced emf EA is greater than EB. Thus the resultant voltage will be E1-E2
which will cause a circulating current under no load condition.
𝐸𝐴 − 𝐸𝐵
𝐼𝐶 =
𝑍𝐴 + 𝑍𝐵
Let ZL = Load impedance of transformer
EA = No load secondary voltage of transformer A
EB = No load secondary voltage of transformer B
By applying KVL to the circuit
EA = V2 + IA ZA ;EB = V2 + IB ZB ............(1)
V2 = IL ZL = (IA+ IB) ZL..............(2)
EA = (IA+ IB) ZL + IA ZA …….(3)
EB = (IA+ IB) ZL + IB ZB …….(4)
Subtract (4) from (3)
EA – EB = IAZA – IBZB
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BEE304 Module-2_ Three-Phase Transformer

(EA − EB )+ IB ZB
IA = ...........(5)
ZA

Substitute equation (5) in (4)

(EA − EB )+ IB ZB
E B = IB Z B + I B Z L + ( ) ZL
ZA
(EA − EB ) ZL IB ZB ZL
E B = I B Z B + IB Z L + +
ZA ZA
(EA − EB ) ZL IB ZB ZL
EB - =IB ZB + IB ZL+
ZA ZA
EB ZA −(EA − EB ) ZL ZA ZB + Z A ZL + ZB ZL
= IB ( )
ZA ZA
EB ZA −(EA − EB ) ZL EB ZA −(EA − EB ) ZL
IB = =
ZA ZB + ZA ZL + ZB ZL ZA ZB + ZL (ZA + ZB )

EB ZA −(EA − EB ) ZL
IB =
ZA ZB + ZL (ZA + ZB )
EA ZB −(EA − EB ) ZL
IA =
ZA ZB + ZL (ZA + ZB )

2c. Autotransformers and Tap-changing transformers:

Autotransformer:
It is possible to use only one winding for the transformer that part of the winding is common to the primary
and secondary. A special type of transformer having only one winding such that part of the winding is
common to the primary and secondary is called an autotransformer. Obviously, the two windings are
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BEE304 Module-2_ Three-Phase Transformer

electrically connected and it works on the principle of conduction as well as induction. Such an
autotransformer is very much economical where the voltage ratio is less than 2 and the electrical isolation
of the two windings is not necessary.

Construction of Autotransformers:
In an autotransformer, only one winding is wound on a laminated magnetic core. The single winding of the
autotransformer is used as primary and secondary. The voltage can be stepped down or stepped up using
an autotransformer.

Step-down autotransformer

Step-up autotransformer
In step-down autotransformer the entire winding acts as a primary while the part of the winding is common
to both primary and secondary. Thus AB forms the primary having N1 turns while BC forms the secondary
with. N2 turns. As N2<N1, the output voltage V2 < V1 and it acts as a step-down autotransformer. In step
up autotransformer, the entire winding acts as secondary while the part of the winding is used common to
both primary and secondary. Thus AB forms the secondary having N2 turns while BC forms the primary
with N1 turns. As N1<N2, the output voltage V1 < V2 and it acts as a step-up autotransformer.

Saving of Copper in Auto Transformer as Compared to Ordinary Two-Winding

Transformer:
For any winding, the cross-section of the winding is proportional to the current I. The total length of the
winding is proportional to the number of turns N. Hence the weight of copper is proportional to the product
of N and I.
Weight of copper  NI
Where I = Current in the winding
N = Number of turns of the winding
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BEE304 Module-2_ Three-Phase Transformer

Consider a two-winding transformer and step-down autotransformer

Let WTW = Total weight of copper in two winding transformers.

WAT = Weight of copper in autotransformer
In two winding transformer,
Weight of copper of primary  N1 I1
Weight of copper of secondary  N2 I2
WTW  N1I1 + N2I2 ………….Total weight of copper
In case of step down autotransformer.
Weight of copper of section AC  (N1 – N2)
Weight of copper of section BC  N2 (I2 – I1)
WAT  (N1 – N2) I1 + N2 (I2 - I1)
Taking ratio of the weights,
𝑊𝑇𝑊 𝑁1 𝐼1 + 𝑁2 𝐼2 𝑁1 𝐼1 + 𝑁2 𝐼2
= =
𝑊𝐴𝑇 (𝑁1 − 𝑁2 )𝐼1 + 𝑁2 (𝐼2 − 𝐼1 ) 𝑁1 𝐼1 − 𝑁2 𝐼1 + 𝑁2 𝐼2 − 𝑁2 𝐼1
𝑁1 𝐼1 + 𝑁2 𝐼2
=
𝑁1 𝐼1 + 𝑁2 𝐼2 − 2𝑁2 𝐼1
𝑁 𝐼
But 𝐾 = 𝑁2 = 𝐼1
1 2

𝑊𝑇𝑊 𝑁1 𝐼1 + 𝐾𝑁1 (𝐼1 /𝐾) 2𝑁1 𝐼1

= =
𝑊𝐴𝑇 𝑁1 𝐼1 + 𝐾𝑁1 (𝐼1 /𝐾) − 2(𝐾𝑁1 )𝐼1 2𝑁1 𝐼1 − 2𝐾𝑁1 𝐼1
𝑊𝑇𝑊 1
=
𝑊𝐴𝑇 1−𝐾
𝑊𝐴𝑇 = (1 − 𝐾 ) 𝑊𝑇𝑊
Saving of copper = 𝑊𝑇𝑊 − 𝑊𝐴𝑇 = 𝑊2𝑇 − (1 − 𝐾 )𝑊𝑇𝑊
Saving of copper = 𝐾 𝑊𝑇𝑊 …… For step down autotransformer
Thus saving in copper is K times the total weight of copper in two winding transformer.
1
Saving of copper = 𝑤𝑇 …… For step up autotransformer
𝐾

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BEE304 Module-2_ Three-Phase Transformer

Advantages of Auto transformer:

• Copper required is very less.
• The efficiency is higher compared to two winding transformer.
• The size and hence cost is less compared to two winding transformer.
• The resistance and leakage reactance is less compared to two winding transformer
• The copper losses I2R, are less.
• Due to less resistance and leakage reactance, the voltage regulation is superior than the two winding
transformer.
• VA rating is more compared to two winding version.
• A smooth and continuous variation of voltage is possible.

Disadvantages of Auto transformer:

• Low impedance hence high short circuit currents for short circuits on secondary side.
• If a section of winding common to primary and secondary is opened, full primary voltage appears
across the secondary resulting in higher voltages on secondary and danger of accidents.
• No electrical separation between primary and secondary which is risky in case of high voltage
levels.
• Economical only where the voltage ratio is less than 2.

Applications of Auto transformer:

• It is used as a starter to give up to 50 to 60% of full voltage to the stator of a squirrel cage
induction motor during starting.
• It is used to give a small boost to a distribution cable, to correct the voltage drop.
• It is also used as a voltage regulator
• Used in power transmission and distribution system and also in the audio system and railways.

Equivalent circuit of Auto transformer:

Consider an autotransformer as shown in the fig
R1 and X1 are the resistance and inductance of that part of the
winding which carries only current I1.
R2 and X2 are the resistance and inductance of that part of the
winding which behaves as secondary.
Applying Kirchhoff’s law,
V1 = E1+I1(R1 +jX1) – (I2 -I1)(R2 + jX2) ……………..(1)

E2 = V2 + (I2 – I1) (R2+jX2) ……………..(2)

𝑉 𝐸2 𝐼
𝐾 = 𝑉2 = = 𝐼2 = Transformation ratio
1 𝐸1 1

𝐸2 𝐼
𝐸1 = , 𝐼2 = 𝐾2 and using in eqn(1)
𝐾
𝐸2 𝐼
𝑉1 = + 𝐼1 (𝑅1 + 𝑗𝑋1 ) + 𝐼1(𝑅2 + 𝑗𝑋2 ) – 1(𝑅2 + 𝑗𝑋2 ) …………..(3)
𝐾 𝐾

Using equation (2) and (3)

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BEE304 Module-2_ Three-Phase Transformer

𝑉2 +(𝐼2 −𝐼1 )(𝑅2 +𝑗𝑋2 )

𝑉1 = + 𝐼1 (𝑅1 + 𝑗𝑋1 ) + 𝐼1(𝑅2 + 𝑗𝑋2 ) – 𝐼𝐾1(𝑅2 + 𝑗𝑋2)
𝐾

𝐼1
𝐼2 = 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑐𝑜𝑚𝑏𝑖𝑛𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑚 𝑜𝑓 𝐼1 𝑤𝑒 𝑔𝑒𝑡
𝐾
𝑉2 1 2 1 2
𝑉1 = + 𝐼1 {𝑅1 + 𝑅2 (𝐾2 − + 1) + 𝑗 ⌈𝑋1 + 𝑋2 (𝐾 2 − + 1) ⌉}
𝐾 𝐾 𝐾

𝑉2 1 2 1 2
𝑉1 = + 𝐼1 {𝑅1 + 𝑅2 ( 𝐾 − 1) + 𝑗 ⌈𝑋1 + 𝑋2 ( 𝐾 − 1) ⌉}
𝐾

𝑉1 = 𝑉2′ +𝐼1 𝑅1𝑒 + 𝐼1 𝑋1𝑒 ………..(4)

Equation (4) gives equivalent circuit as shown below

1 2
𝑅1𝑒 = 𝑅1 + 𝑅2 ( 𝐾 − 1)

𝑅1𝑒 = Equivalent resistance referred to primary.

Tap-changing Transformers: The change of voltage is affected by changing the numbers of turns
of the transformer provided with taps. For sufficiently close control of voltage, taps are usually provided
on the high voltage windings of the transformer.

There are two types of tap-changing transformers

1. Off-load tap changing transformer

2. On-load tap changing transformer

Off-load tap-changing transformer: In this method, the transformer is disconnected from the main supply
when the tap setting is to be changed. The tap setting is usually done manually. The off load tap changing
transformer is shown in the figure below

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BEE304 Module-2_ Three-Phase Transformer

On-load tap-changing transformer:

In order that the supply may not be interrupted, on-load tap changing transformer are sued. Such a
transformer is known as a tap-changing under load transformer. While tapping, two essential conditions
are to be fulfilled.

• The load circuit should not be broken to avoid arcing and prevent the damage of contacts.
• No parts of the windings should be short–circuited while adjusting the tap.

The tap changing employing a center tapped reactor R show in the figure above. Here S is the diverter
switch, and 1, 2, 3 are selector switch. The transformer is in operation with switches 1 and S closed. To
change to tap 2, switch S is opened, and 2 is closed. Switch 1 is then opened, and S closed to complete the
tap change. It is to be noted that the diverter switch operates on load, and no current flows in the selector
switches during tap changing. During the tap change only half of the reactance which limits the current is
connected in the circuit

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