Power Transformer

INTRODUCTION
Transformer is a vital link in a power system which has made possible the power
generated at low voltages (6600 to 22000 volts) to be stepped up to extra high voltages
for transmission over long distances and then transformed to low voltages for utilization
at proper load centers.
With this tool in hands it has become possible to harness the energy resources at far off
places from the load centers and connect the same through long extra high voltage
transmission lines working on high efficiencies. At that, it may be said to be the simplest
equipment with no motive parts. Nevertheless it has its own problems associated with
insulation, dimensions and weights because of demands for ever rising voltages and
capacities.
In its simplest form a Transformer consists of a laminated iron core about which are
wound two or more sets of windings. Voltage is applied to one set of windings, called the
primary, which builds up a magnetic flux through the iron. This flux induces a counter
electromotive force in the primary winding thereby limiting the current drawn from the
supply. This is called the no load current and consists of two components- one in phase
with the voltage which accounts for the iron losses due to eddy currents and hysteresis,
and the other 90° behind the voltage which magnetizes the core.
This flux induces an electro-motive force in the secondary winding too. When load is
connected across this winding, current flows in the secondary circuit. This produces a
demagnetising effect, to counter balance this the primary winding draws more current
from the supply so that
IP.NP = IS.NS
Where Ip and Np are the current and number of turns in the primary while IS and NS are
the current and number of turns in the secondary respectively. The ratio of turns in the
primary and secondary windings depends on the ratio of voltages on the Primary and
secondary sides. The magnetic core is built up of laminations of high grade silicon or
other sheet steel which are insulated from each other by varnish or through a coating of
iron oxide. The core can be constructed in different ways relative to the windings.
CONSTRUCTION
1- Transformer Core
Construction in which the iron circuit is surrounded by windings and forms a low
reluctance path for the magnetic flux set up by the voltage impressed on the primary. Fig
(1), Fig. (6) and Fig. (7) Shows the core type

Fig (1) core type

 The core of shell type is sh
own Fig.(2), Fig.(3), Fig.(4), and Fig.(5), in which The winding is surrounded by the
iron Circuit Consisting of two or more paths through which the flux divides. This
arrangement affords somewhat Better protection to coils under short circuit conditions.
In actual construction there are Variations from This simple construction but these can be
designed
With such proportions as to give similar electrical characteristics.

Fig (2) shell type

Fig.(3) Single
phase Transformer
 Fig. (5) 3- phase Transformer Shell type

Fig. (6) 3- phase Transformer core type

 Fig. (7) Cross section of a three-phase
Distribution Transformer (Core Type)

Three-phase Transformers usually employ three-leg core. Where Transformers to be

transported by rail are large capacity, five-leg core is used to curtail them to within the
height limitation for transport.
Even among thermal/nuclear power station Transformers, which are usually transported
by ship and freed from restrictions on in-land transport, gigantic Transformers of the
1000 MVA class employ five-leg core to prevent leakage flux, minimize vibration,
increase tank strength, and effectively use space inside the tank.
Regarding single-phase Transformers, two-leg core is well known. Practically, however,
three leg cores is used, four-leg core and five-leg core are used in large capacity
Transformers. The sectional areas of the yoke and side leg are 50 % of that of the main
leg; thus, the core height can be reduced to a large extent compared with the two leg core.

For core material, high-grade, grain oriented silicon steel strip is used. Connected by a
core leg tie plate fore and hind clamps by connecting bars. As a result, the core is so
constructed that the actual silicon strip is held in a sturdy frame consisting of clamps
and tie plates, which resists both mechanical force during hoisting the core-and-coil
assembly and short circuits, keeping the silicon steel strip protected from such force.

In large-capacity Transformers, which are likely to invite increased leakage flux,

nonmagnetic steel is used or slits are provided in steel members to reduce the width
for preventing stray loss from increasing on metal parts used to clamp the core and for
preventing local overheat. The core interior is provided with many cooling oil ducts
parallel to the lamination to which a part of the oil flow forced by an oil pump is
introduced to achieve forced cooling.
When erecting a core after assembling, a special device shown in Fig. (8) Is used so
that no strain due to bending or slip is produced on the silicon steel plate.

Fig (8)
 Fig (9)
The steel strip surface is subjected to inorganic insulation treatment.
All cores employ miter-joint core construction. Yokes are jointed at an angle
of 45° to utilize the magnetic flux directional characteristic of steel strip.
A computer-controlled automatic machine cuts grain-oriented silicon
steel strip with high accuracy and free of burrs, so that magnetic characteristics
of the grain-oriented silicon steel remains unimpaired. Silicon steel strips are
stacked in a circle-section. Each core leg is fitted with tie plates on its front
and rear side, with resin-impregnated glass tape wound around the outer
circumference. Sturdy clamps applied to front and rear side of the upper and
lower yokes are bound together with glass tape.
And then, the resin undergoes heating for hardening to tighten the band
so that the core is evenly clamped Fig. (9). Also, upper and lower clamps are
connected by a core leg tie plate; fore and hind clamps by connecting bars.

As a result, the core is so constructed that the actual silicon strip is held
in a sturdy frame consisting of clamps and tie plates, which resists both
mechanical force during hoisting the core-and-coil assembly and short circuits,
keeping the silicon steel strip protected from such force.

In large-capacity Transformers, which are likely to invite increased

leakage flux, nonmagnetic steel is used or slits are provided in steel members
to reduce the width for preventing stray loss from increasing on metal parts
used to clamp the core and for preventing local overheat.

The core interior is provided with many cooling oil ducts parallel to the
lamination to which a part of the oil flow forced by an oil pump is introduced
to achieve forced cooling.

When erecting a core after assembling, a special device shown in Fig.

(8) Is used so that no strain due to bending or slip is produced on the silicon
steel plate.
2 - Winding

Various windings are used as shown below. According to the purpose of use, the
optimum winding is selected so as to utilize their individual features.

1 - Helical Disk Winding (Interleaved disk winding)

In Helical disk winding, electrically isolated turns are brought in contact with each other
as shown in Fig. (10) Thus, this type of winding

is also termed "interleaved disk winding."

Since conductors 1 - 4 and conductors 9 - 12 assume a shape similar to a wound

capacitor, it is known that these conductors have very large capacitance.

This capacitance acts as series capacitance of the winding to highly improve the
voltage distribution for surge. Unlike cylindrical windings, Helical disk winding
requires no shield on the winding outermost side, resulting in smaller coil outside
diameter and thus reducing Transformer dimension. Comparatively small in winding
width and large in space between windings, the construction of this type of winding is
appropriate for the winding, which faces to an inner winding of relatively high voltage.
Thus, general EHV or UHV substation Transformers employ Helical disk winding to
utilize its features mentioned above.

2 - Continuous Disk Winding

This is the most general type applicable to windings of a wide range of voltage and
current Fig. (11). this type is applied to windings ranging from BI L of 350kV to BI
L of 1550kV. Rectangular wire is used where current is relatively small, while
transposed cable Fig. (12) is applied to large current. When voltage is relatively low,
a Transformer of 100MVA
or more capacity handles a large current exceeding 1000A. In this case, the
advantage of transposed cable may be fully utilized.

Fig. (10)
Fig. (11). Continuous Disk Winding

Fig. (12) Transposed conductor construction

Diagram
Further, since the number of turns is reduced, even conventional continuous disk
construction is satisfactory in voltage distribution, thereby ensuring adequate dielectric
characteristics. Also, whenever necessary, potential distribution is improved by inserting
a shield between turns.
3 - Helical windings

For windings of low voltage (20kV or below) and large current, a helical coil is used
which consists of a large number of parallel conductors piled in the radial
Direction and wound. Adequate transposition is necessary to equalize the share of
current among these parallel conductors.
Fig (12) illustrates the transposing procedure for double helical coil.

Each conductor is transposed at intervals of a fixed number of turns in the order shown
in the figure, and as a result the location of each conductor opposed to the high voltage
winding is equalized from the view point of magnetic field between the start and the end
of winding turn.
Fig. (13) double helical coil

3 - Tank.
The tank has two main parts:
a –The tank is manufactured by forming and welding steel plate to be used as a container
for holding the core and coil assembly together with insulating oil.
The base and the shroud, over which a cover is sometimes bolted. These parts are
manufactured in steel plates assembled together via weld beads. The tank is provided
internally with devices usually made of wood for fixing the magnetic circuit and the
windings.
In addition, the tank is designed to withstand a total vacuum during the treatment
process. Sealing between the base and shroud is provided by weld beads. The other
openings are sealed with oil-resistant synthetic rubber joints, whose compression is
limited by steel stops.
Finally the tank is designed to withstand the application of the internal overpressure
specified, without permanent deformation.
 Fig (14) Power Transformer 30 MVA 132 / 11 KV

b - Conservator
The tank is equipped with an expansion reservoir (conservator) which allows for the
expansion of the oil during operation. The conservator is designed to hold a total vacuum
and may be equipped with a rubber membrane preventing direct contact between the oil
and the air.
 Fig. (15)

Fig. (16)
4 - Handling devices:
Various parts of the tank are provided with the following arrangements for handling the
Transformer.
- Four locations (under the base) intended to accommodate bidirectional roller boxes for
displacement on rails.
- Four pull rings (on two sides of the base)
- Four jacking pads (under the base)
- Tank Earthing terminals:
The tank is provided with Earthing terminals for Earthing the various metal parts of the
Transformer at one point. The magnetic circuit is earthed via a special external terminal.
5 - Valves:
The Transformers are provided with sealed valves, sealing joints, locking devices and
position indicators.
The Transformers usually include:
- Two isolating valves for the "Buchholz" relay.
- One drainage and filtering valve located below the tank.
- One isolating valve per radiator or per cooler.
- One conservator drainage and filtering valve.

And when there is an on-load adjuster:

- Two isolating valves for the protection relay.
- One refilling valve for the on-load tap-changer.
- One drain plug for the tap-changer compartment.

6 - Connection Systems
Mostly Transformers have top-mounted HV and LV bushings according to DIN or IEC
in their standard version. Besides the open bushing arrangement for direct Connection of
bare or insulated wires, three basic insulated termination systems is available. Fully
enclosed terminal box for cables
Fig. (17&18) Available for either HV or LV side, or for both. Horizontally split design in
degree of protection IP 44 or IP 54. (Totally enclosed and fully protected against
contact's With live parts, plus protection against drip, splash, or spray water.)
Cable installation through split cable glands and removable plates facing diagonally
downwards.
Optional conduit hubs suitable for single-core or three-phase cables with solid dielectric
insulation, with or without stress cones.
Multiple cables per phase are terminated on auxiliary bus structures attached to the
bushings removal of Transformer by simply bending back the cables.

Fig. (17)
 Fig. (18) HV Side 300 KV

Fig. (19) LV Side (11KV) connection

terminal 3-cable for each phase

7 - The dehydrating breather

The dehydrating breather is provided at the entrance of the conservator of oil
immersed equipment such as Transformers and reactors.
The conservator governs the breathing action of the oil system on forming to the
temperature change of the equipment, and the dehydrating breather removes the
moisture and dust in the air inhaled and prevents the deterioration of the Transformer
oil due to moisture absorption.

Construction and Operation

See Fig. (20) The dehydrating breather uses silica - gel as the desiccating

Agent and is provided with an oil pot at the bottom to filtrate the inhaled air. The
specifications of the dehydrating breather are shown in Table (1) and the operation of
 the component parts in Table (2).

Fig. (20) Dehydrating breather

1. Case

2. Peep window
3. Flange

4. Oil pot

5. Oil pot holder

6. Breathing pipe

7.Filter

8. silica-gel

9.Absorbent

10. Oil (Transformer oil)

11. Wing nut

12.Cover
13. Suppression screw

14. Set screw

15. Oil level line (Red

Table - 1
Weight of
Type Desiccating agent
desiccating

agent
FP4.5A 4.5 kg Material --- Silica-gel (Main component
SiO2)

Shape, Size --- spherical, approx. Ø4 –

Ø5

Mixed ratio --- white silica-gel 75%

blue silica-gel 25%

 Table - 2

Item Action
Silica-gel Removes moisture in the air inhaled
by the Transformer Or reactor.
Blue silica-gel In addition to the removal of
moisture, indicates the Extent of
moisture absorption by discoloration.

(Dry condition) (Wet condition )

Blue ------ Light purple ----- Light

pink
Oil pot Oil and filter Removes moisture and dust in the air
inhaled by: the Transformer or
reactor. In addition, while it is not
performing breathing action, it seals
the desiccating agent from the outer
air to prevent unnecessary moisture
Absorption of the desiccating agent.

absorbent Absorbs dust and deteriorated matter

in the oil pot, to Maintain the oil pot
in a good operating condition.

Bushing

Having manufactured various types of bushings ranging from 6kV-class to 800kV-class,

Toshiba has accumulated many years of splendid actual results in their operation.
Plain-type Bushing
Applicable to 24 kV-classes or below, this type of bushing is available in a standard
series up to 25,000A rated current. Consisting of a single porcelain tube through which
passes a central conductor, this bushing is of simplified construction and small mounting
dimensions; especially, this type proves to be advantageous when used as an opening of
equipment to be placed in a bus duct Fig. (21).

Fig. (21) 24 KV Bushing

Oil-impregnated, Paper-
insulated Condenser
Bushing

Fig. (22) 800 KV bushing

The oil-impregnated, paper insulated condenser bushing,
mainly consisting of a condenser cone of oil-impregnated
insulating paper, is used

For high-voltage application (Fig. 22&23).

This bushing, of enclosed construction, offers the Following features:

• High reliability and easy maintenance.

• Partial discharge free at test voltage.

• Provided with test tapping for measuring electrostatic capacity and tan δ.

• Provided with voltage tapping for connecting an instrument Transformer if required.

Fig. (23) Bushing type GOEK 1425 for direct connection of 420 KV Power
Transformer to gas insulated Switchgear or high voltage cable

Fig. (24) Cut away view of Transformer bushing type GOE

Construction of Cable Connection and GIS Connection
Cable Connection

In urban-district substations connected with power cables and thermal power

stations suffered from salt-pollution, cable direct-coupled construction is used
in which a Transformer is direct-coupled with the power cable in an oil
chamber.
Indirect connection system in which, with a cable connecting chamber attached
to the Transformer tank, a coil terminal is connected to the cable head through
an oil-oil bushing in the cable connection chamber. Construction of the
connection chamber can be divided into sections. Cable connections and oil
filling can be separately performed upon completion of the tank assembling.
Fig. (26) Indirect Cable Connection
GIS (Gas Insulated Switchgear) Connection

There is an increasing demand for GIS in substations from the standpoint

of site-acquisition difficulties and environmental harmony.
In keeping with this tendency, GIS connection-type Transformers
are ever-increasing in their applications.
The SF6 gas bus is connected directly with the Transformer
coil terminal through an oil-gas bushing. Oil-gas bushing support
is composed of a Transformer-side flange and an SF6 gas bus-side flange,
permitting the oil side and the gas side to be completely separated from each other.

Fig. (27) Direct GIS Connection

 Buchholz Relays
The following protective devices are used so that, upon a fault development inside a
Transformer, an alarm is set off or the Transformer is disconnected from the circuit. In
the event of a fault, oil or insulations decomposes by heat, producing gas or developing
an impulse oil flow.
To detect these phenomena, a Buchholz relay is installed.

Buchholz Relay
The Buchholz relay is installed at the middle of the connection pipe between the
Transformer tank and the conservator.
There are a 1st stage contact and a 2nd stage contact as shown in Fig. (28). the 1st stage
contact is used to detect minor faults.
When gas produced in the tank due to a minor fault surfaces to accumulate in the relay
chamber within a certain amount (0.3Q-0.35Q) or above, the float lowers and closes the
contact, thereby actuating the alarm device.

Fig. (28). Buchholz Relay

The 2nd stage contact is used to detect major faults. In the event of a major fault, abrupt
gas production causes pressure in the tank to flow oil into the conservator. In this case,
the float is lowered to close the contact, thereby causing the Circuit Breaker to trip or
actuating the alarm device.

Temperature Measuring Device

Liquid Temperature Indicator (like BM SERIES Type) is used to measure oil
temperature as a standard practice.
With its temperature detector installed on the tank cover and with its indicating part
installed at any position easy to observe on the front of the Transformer, the dial
temperature detector is used to measure maximum oil temperature.

The indicating part, provided with an alarm contact and a maximum temperature pointer,
is of airtight construction with moisture absorbent contained therein; thus, there is no
possibility of the glass interior collecting moisture whereby it would be difficult to
observe the indicator Fig. (30&31). Further, during remote measurement and recording
of the oil temperatures, on request a search coil can be installed which is fine copper wire
wound on a bobbin used to measure temperature through changes in its resistance.

Winding Temperature Indicator Relay (BM SERIES)

The winding temperature indicator relay is a conventional oil temperature indicator
supplemented with an electrical heating element.
The relay measures the temperature of the hottest part of the Transformer winding. If
specified, the relay can be fitted with a precision potentiometer with the same
characteristics as the search coil for remote indication.
Fig. (29) Construction of Winding Temperature
Indicator Relay

Fig (30) Oil Temperature Indicator

Fig. (31) Winding Temperature Indicator

The temperature sensing system is filled with a liquid, which changes in volume with
varying temperature. The sensing bulb placed in a thermometer well in the Transformer
tank cover senses the maximum oil temperature. The heating elements with a matching
resistance is fed with current from the Transformer associated with the loaded winding of
the Transformer and compensate the indicator so that a temperature increase of the
heating element is thereby proportional to a temperature increase of the winding-over-the
maximum- oil temperature.
Therefore, the measuring bellows react to both the temperature increase of the winding-
over-the-maximum-oil temperature and maximum oil temperature. In this way the
instrument indicates the temperature in the hottest part of the Transformer winding.
The matching resistance of the heating element is preset at the factory.

Pressure Relief Device

When the gauge pressure in the tank reaches abnormally
To 0.35-0.7 kg/cm.sq. The pressure relief device starts automatically to discharge the oil.
When the pressure in the tank has dropped beyond the limit through discharging, the
device is automatically reset to prevent more oil than required from being discharged.
Fig. (32) Pressure Relief Device

Cooling System
METHODS OF COOLING
The kinds of cooling medium and their symbols adopted
by I.S. 2026 (Part 11)-1977 are:
(a) Mineral oil or equivalent flammable insulating liquid O

(b) Non flammable synthetic insulating liquid L

(c) Gas G

(d) Water W

(e) Air A

The kids of circulation for the cooling medium

and their symbols are:

(a) Natural N

(b) Forced (Oil not directed) F

(c) Forced (Oil directed) D

Each cooling method of Transformer is identified by four symbols.

The first letter represents the kind of cooling medium in contact
with winding, the second letter represents the kind of circulation for
the cooling medium, the third letter represents the cooling medium
that is in contact with the external cooling system and fourth symbol represents the
kind of circulation for the external medium.
Thus oil immersed Transformer with natural oil circulation and forced air external
cooling is designated ONAF.

For oil immersed Transformers the cooling systems normally adopted are:

1- Oil Immersed Natural cooled – Type ONAN. Fig. (33 & 34)

In this case the core and winding assembly is immersed in oil. Cooling is obtained by the
circulation of oil under natural thermal head only.

In large Transformers the surface area of the tank alone is not adequate for dissipation of
the heat produced by the losses.

Additional surface is obtained with the provision of radiators.

2. Oil Immersed Air Blast - Type ONAF Fig. (35 & 36)

In this case circulation of air is obtained by fans. It becomes possible to reduce the size
of the Transformer for the same rating and consequently save in cost.

Fig. (33) Oil Immersed Natural cooled ONAN

Fig. (34) Oil Immersed Natural cooled ONAN

Fig. (35) Oil Immersed Air Blast - Type ONAF

Fig. (36) Oil Immersed Air Blast - Type ONAF

3. Oil Immersed Water Cooled - Type ONWN

In this case internal cooling coil is employed through which the water is

allowed to flow. Apparently this system of cooling assumes free supply of water.

Except at hydropower stations this would off-set the saving in cost when special
means have to be provided for adequate supply of water.

The circulation of oil is only by convection currents.

This type of cooling was employed in older designs but has been
almost abandoned in favor of the Type OFWF discussed later.
4. Forced Oil Air Blast Cooled - Type OFAF Fig. (37)
In this system of cooling also circulation of oil is forced by a pump. In addition fans are
added to radiators for forced blast of air.

5. Forced Oil Natural Air Cooled - Type OFAN Fig. (38)

In this method of cooling, pump is employed in the oil circuit for better circulation of
oil.

Fig. (37) Forced-oil, Forced-air-cooled - Type

OFAF
Fig. (38) Forced Oil Natural Air
Cooled - Type OFAN
6. Forced Oil Water Cooled - Type OFWF

In this type of cooling a pump is added in the oil circuit for forced
circulation of oil, through a separate heat exchanger in which
water is allowed to flow.

7. Forced Directed Oil and Forced Air Cooling -ODAF.

It should be remembered that Transformers cooling type OFAF

and OFWF will not carry any load if air and water supply
respectively is removed. It is quite common to select Transformers
with two systems of

Cooling e.g., ONAN/ONAF or ONAN/OFAF or sometimes

three systems e.g., ONAN/ONAF/ OFAF.

These determine the type of cooling upto certain loading.

As soon as the load exceeds a preset value, the fans/pumps are
Switched on. The rating of a Transformer with ONAN/ONAF
cooling may be written, say, as 45/60 MVA. This means that so
long as the load is below 45 MVA, the fans will not be working.
These are Switched on automatically when the load on the Transformer
exceeds 45 MVA. Type of cooling has a bearing on the cost of the Transformer.

It shall be appreciated that the ONAN cooling has the advantage

of being the simplest with no. fans or pumps and hence no auxiliary motors.

On smaller units say up to 10 MVA, saving in price in changing from

ONAN cooling to other forms of cooling is negligible.

On bigger units not only there is a saving in price but also the
reduced weights and dimensions, with other systems of cooling

of Transformers, render the transport easy and decrease the cost of

Foundations etc.

Site conditions sometimes influence the preferred cooling arrangement.

For example the advantage of reduced price, dimensions and weight in
case of type OFWF can be fully realised only where water supply is readily available.

Where special arrangements have to be made for water supply and

disposal of the water, the installation costs for OFWF Transformers may increase.

INSULATING OIL (SPECIFICATIONS AND

DEHYDRATION AT SITE)
In Transformers, the insulating oil provides an insulation medium as well as
a heat transferring medium that carries away heat produced in the windings
and iron core. Since the electric strength and the life of a Transformer
depend chiefly upon the quality of the insulating oil, it is very important
to use a high quality insulating oil.

The insulating oil used for Transformers should generally meet the following
requirements:

(a) Provide a high electric strength.

 (b) Permit good transfer of heat.

(c) Have low specific gravity-In oil of low specific

gravity particles which have become suspended
in the oil will settle down on the
bottom of the tank more readily and at a faster rate,
a property aiding the oil in retaining its homogeneity.
(d) Have a low viscosity- Oil with low viscosity, i.e.,
having greater fluidity, will cool Transformers
at a much better rate.
(e) Have low pour point- Oil with low pour point will cease
to flow only at low temperatures.
(f) Have a high flash point. The flash point characterizes
its tendency to evaporate. The lower the flash point
the greater the oil will tend to vaporize.
When oil vaporizes, it loses in volume, its viscosity rises,
and an explosive mixture may be formed with the air above the oil.

(g) Not attack insulating materials and structural materials.

(h) Have chemical stability to ensure life long service.

Various national and international specifications
have been issued on insulating oils for Transformers
to meet the above requirements.
The specifications for insulating oil stipulated in Indian
Standard 335: 1983 are given below.

characteristic Requirement
1 Appearance The oil shall be clear and
transparent and free from
suspended matter or sediments.
2 Density at 29.5°C, Max 0.89 g/cm3
3 Interfacial tension at 0.04 N/m.
270°C, Min.
4 Flash point Min. 104 °C
5 Pour Point Max. - 9 °C
6 Corrosive Sulphur (in Non-corrosive.
terms
of classification of copper
strip).
7 Electric strength (breakdown
voltage) Min.
30 kV (rms)
(a) New unfiltered oil
60 kV (rms).
(b) After filtration
 8 Dielectric dissipation factor 0.002
(tan δ) at 90 °C Max.
9 Specific resistance
35 X Ω / cm
(resistivity):
1500 X Ω / cm
(a) At 9 0 °C Min.

(b) at 2 7 0 °C
Min.
10 Oxidation stability. 0.4 mg KOH/g
0.10 percent by weight
(a) Neutralization value,
after oxidation Max.

(b) Total sludge, after

oxidation, Max.
11 Presence of oxidation The oil shall not
inhibitor contain antioxidant additives.
12 Water content, Max. 15 ppm

Gases analysis
The analysis of gases dissolved in oil has proved to be a highly practical method for the
field monitoring of power Transformers.
This method is very sensitive and gives an early warning of incipient faults. It is
indeed possible to determine from an oil sample of about one litre the presence of
certain gases down to a quantity of a few mm3 , i.e., a gas volume corresponding to
about 1 millionth of the volume of the liquid (ppm).
The gases (with the exception of N2 and O2) dissolved in the oil are derived from the
degradation of oil and cellulose molecules that takes place under the influence of
thermal and electrical stresses. Different stress modes, e.g., normal operating
temperatures, hot spots with different high temperatures, partial discharges and
flashovers, produce different compositions of the gases dissolved in the oil.
The relative distribution of the gases is therefore used to evaluate the origin of the gas
production and the rate at which the gases are formed to assess the intensity and
propagation of the gassing. Both these kinds of information together provide the
necessary basis for the evaluation of any fault and the necessary remedial action.
This method of monitoring power Transformers has been studied intensively and work
is going on in international and national organizations such as CIGRE, IEC and IEEE.

APPLICATION.
The frequency with which oil samples are taken depends primarily on the size of the
Transformer and the impact of any Transformer failure on the network.
Some typical cases where gas analysis is particularly desirable are listed in the
following:
1 - When a defect is suspected (e.g., abnormal noise).
2 - When a Buchholz (gas-collecting) relay or pressure monitor gives a signal.
3 - Directly after and within a few weeks after a heavy short circuit
4 - In connection with the commissioning of Transformers that are of significant
importance to the network, followed by a further test some months later.
Different routines for sampling intervals have been developed by different utilities and
in different countries.
One sampling per year appears to be customary for large power Transformers (Rated
>= 300 MVA >= 220 kV).
The routine that has been used over a long period of time of checking the state of the
oil every other year by measuring the breakdown strength, the tan value, the
neutralization coefficient and other physical quantities is not replaced by the gas
analysis.
Extraction and analysis
To be able to carry out a gas analysis, the gases dissolved in the oil must be extracted
and accumulated.
The oil sample to be degassed is sucked into a pre-evacuated degassing column. A low
pressure is maintained by a vacuum pump. To assure effective degassing (> 99 per
cent), the oil is allowed to run slowly over a series of rings which enlarge its surfaces.
An oil pump provides the necessary circulation. The gas extracted by the vacuum
pump is accumulated in a vessel.
Any water that may have been present in the oil is removed by freezing in a cooling
trap to ensure that the water will not disturb the vacuum pumping.
The volumes of the gas and the oil sample are determined to permit calculation of the
total gas content in the oil. The accumulated gas is injected by means of a syringe into
the gas chromatograph, which analyses the gas sample.
The result is plotted on a recorder in the form of a chromatogram.
Using calibration gases it is possible to identify the different peaks on a chromatogram.
Recalculation of the height of a peak to the content of this gas is done by comparison
with chromatogram deflections from calibration gases.
With the composition of the gas mixture and the total gas content in the oil sample
known; the content (in ppm) of the individual gases in the oil is obtained. The
following gases are analyzed:
1 - CARBON MONOXIDE CO
2 - CARBON DIOXIDE CO2
3 - HYDROGEN H2
4 - ETHANE C2H6
5 - ETHENE C2H4
6 - ACETYLENE C2H2
7 - METHANE CH4
8 - PROPANE C3H6
The detection limits depend partly on the total gas content; for hydrocarbons (except
methane) the limit lies below 0,5 ppm, for hydrogen, methane and carbon monoxide
about 5 ppm and for carbon dioxide about 2 ppm.
This high sensitivity is necessary in those cases where it is desired to determine a trend
in the gas evolution at short sampling intervals, e.g., during a heat run test or when oil
samples are taken at intervals of only a few days.
Identification of faults.
The fault types that can and should be identified are corona, electrical discharges,
excessively hot metal surfaces and fast degradation of cellulose. It is possible to obtain
an idea of the type of fault by using a diagnosis scheme.
A number of different schemes of this type have been prepared.
To avoid having to deal with the contents of the individual gases, one frequently uses
quotients between different gases.
Some schemes give an appearance of great precision, but certain care should be
observed when making assessments, until all factors influencing the gassing rate are
known.

GAS ANALYSIS OF TRANSFORMER

Type Of Gas Caused By
CARBON MONOXIDE, CO AGEING
CARBON DIOXIDE, CO2
HYDROGEN, H2 ELECTRIC ARCS
ACETYLENE,
C2H2
ETHANE, LOCAL
C2H6 OVERHEATING
ETHENE,
C2H4
PROPANE,
C3H6
HYDROGEN, H2
METHANE, CORONA
CH4

Gas concentration limits used in the

Interpretation of DGA data
A statistical survey concerning gas concentrations in Transformer
Oil using the results of that survey the following limits have been set:

Threshold Warning Fault Unit

Limit Limit Limit
H2 20 200 400 ppm
CH4 10 50 100 ppm
C2H6 10 50 100 ppm
C2H4 20 200 400 ppm
C2H2 1 3 10 ppm
CO 300 1000 ppm
 CO2 5000 20000 ppm
The limits above are for a Transformer which are open with a breather and have no
OLTC or has a separate conservator for the OLTC.
If the Transformer tank and the OLTC have a common conservator the warning and
fault limits are 30 ppm and 100 ppm respectively for C2H2

PARALLEL OPERATION OF THREE-PHASE

TRANSFORMERS
Ideal parallel operation between Transformers occurs when (1) there are no
circulating currents on open circuit, and (2) the load division between the
Transformers is proportional to their kVA ratings. These requirements
necessitate that any - two or more three phase Transformers, which are desired
to be operated in parallel, should possess:

1) The same no load ratio of transformation;

2) The same percentage impedance;

3) The same resistance to reactance ratio;

4) The same polarity;

5) The same phase rotation;

6) The same inherent phase-angle displacement between primary and

secondary terminals. The above conditions are characteristic of all three phase
Transformers whether two winding or three winding. With three winding
Transformers, however, the following additional requirement must also be
satisfied before the Transformers can be designed suitable for parallel operation.

7) The same power ratio between the corresponding windings.

The first four conditions need no explanation being the same as in

single phase Transformers.
The fifth condition of phase rotation is also a simple requirement. It
assumes that the standard direction of phase rotation is anti-clockwise. In case
of any difference in the phase rotation it can be set right by simply
 interchanging two leads either on primary or secondary. It is the intention here
to discuss the last two i.e., sixth and seventh conditions in detail.

Connections of Phase Windings

The star, delta or zigzag connection of a set of windings of a three

phase Transformer or of windings of the same voltage of single phase
Transformers, forming a three phase bank are indicated by letters Y, D or Z
for the high voltage winding and y, d or z for the intermediate and low voltage
windings. If the neutral point of a star or zigzag connected winding is brought
out, the indications are Y N or Z N and y n and z n respectively.

Phase Displacement between Windings

The vector for the high voltage winding is taken as the reference vector.
Displacement of the vectors of other windings from the reference vector, with
anticlockwise rotation, is represented by the use of clock hour figure. IS: 2026
(Part 1V)-1977 gives 26 sets of connections star-star, star-delta, and star
zigzag, delta-delta, delta star, delta-zigzag, zigzag star, zigzag-delta.
Displacement of the low voltage winding vector varies from zero to -330° in
steps of -30°, depending on the method of connections.
Hardly any power system adopts such a large variants of connections.
Some of the commonly used connections with phase displacement
of 0, -300, -180" and -330° (clock-hour setting 0, 1, 6 and 11) are shown in
Table ( below) Symbol for the high voltage winding comes first, followed by
the symbols of windings in diminishing sequence of voltage. For example a
220/66/11 kV Transformer connected star, star and delta and vectors of 66 and
11 kV windings having phase displacement of 0° and -330° with the reference
(220 kV) vector will be represented
As Yy0 - Yd11.

If a pair of three phase Transformers have the same phase displacement between high
voltage and low voltage windings and possess similar characteristics (Such as no load
ratio of transformation phase rotation, percentage impedance) these can be paralleled
with each other by connecting together terminals which correspond physically and
alphabetically.

Thus taking the case of two three phase Transformers having vector symbols Dd0 and
Yy0, these can be put into parallel operation by connecting H.V terminals U1, V1 and
W1 of one Transformer to HV terminals U1, V1 and W1 of the other Transformer.
Similarly, low voltage terminals U1V1 and of one Transformer should be connected to
U1, V1 and W1 terminals of the second Transformer.

Sometimes it may be required to operate a three-phase Transformer

belonging to one group with another three-phase Transformer belonging to a
different group. This is possible with suitable changes in external connections.
For example, let us consider a three-phase Transformer with vector symbol
Dy1 and see how this can be operated in parallel with a three-phase
Transformer of similar characteristics but having vector symbol Yd11.
Referring to Table (below) the phasor diagrams of the induced voltages in the h-v and
l-v windings of the two Transformers, with the phase sequence of the supply
connected to terminals U,V, W of the two being RYB in the anti-clockwise direction
are as shown in Figs. (39a) and (39b) respectively.

Fig. (39)
Example of parallel operation of Transformers of groups 3 and 4
(Transformers having symbols Dy 1 and Yd 11 operating in
parallel

It may be seen from these diagrams that the phase displacement between the induced
voltages in the h-v and l-v windings is -30° in the first Transformer and it is -330° in the
second Transformer. However, for the successful parallel operation of these
Transformers, the phase displacement must be the same in the two.

This can be achieved by interchanging externally two of the h-v connections

of the incoming Transformer to the supply, i.e., by connecting 1V to bus B and
1W to bus Y as shown in Fig. (39c) by full lines instead of

Connecting 1V to bus Y and 1W to bus B as shown in Fig (39b) by dotted lines.

This results in the reversal from anticlockwise direction to clockwise direction of the
phase rotation of the induced voltages as shown by arrows in Fig. (39c) and therefore
results in a phase displacement of -30° between the induced voltages in the h-v and l-v
windings [see Fig. (39c)].

The change in two of external it-v connections of the second Transformer thus brings
it -30°. The secondary voltages of this Transformer, however, have a phase rotation
reversed with respect to that of the secondary voltages of the first Transformer.

This can be set right by changing again the two corresponding l-v external
connections, i.e., by connecting 2V to bus b and 2W to busy as shown in Fig. (39c)
instead of connecting 2V to busy and 2W to bus b as shown in Fig. (39b). Thus
Transformers connected in accordance with clock hour No. 1 and 11 can be operated
in parallel with one another by interchanging two of the external h-v and also the
corresponding l-v connections of one Transformer.

Transformers connected in accordance with clock hour No. 0 and 6 however, cannot
be operated in parallel with one another without altering the internal connections of
one of them as change of external connections only brings about change in phase
rotation.

The general principle applying to the parallel operation of a three winding

Transformer with another three winding Transformer are the same as those for the
paralleling of two winding Transformers.

However, to obtain the same percentage impedance. Between the three pairs of
windings of the two (or more) Transformers (being paralleled) it is imperative that the
power ratio of the corresponding windings of the Transformers should be the same,
i.e.

Where (PH)1 and (PH)2 represent the powers of the h-v windings (say primary),
(PM)1 and (PM)2 represent the powers of the medium voltage windings (say
secondary) and (PL)1 and (PL)2 represent the powers of the low voltage windings
(say tertiary) of the two Transformers labeled 1 and 2. This is proved below. Fig. (40)
Shows two 3 winding
Transformers (represented by their equivalent circuits) connected in parallel. The
currents flowing in the various circuits and windings are shown in the figure.
 Fig (40) Shows two 3 winding Transformers (represented)

Thus the power ratios of the corresponding windings are similar. This as is evident
also fulfils the second condition of same percentage impedance. When Transformers
which do not fulfilling this condition are paralleled the operation may be satisfactory
without fulfilling the ideal conditions so long as the loads to be carried do not
overload either Transformer.

Therefore, when new three-phase 3 winding Transformers are to be purchased for

parallel operation with existing three-phase 3-winding Transformers the purchase
order must specify the power ratings of the various windings of the existing
Transformers along with other specifications and indicate that the power ratios of the
corresponding

windings of the various Transformers must be identical failing which it will be

impossible to design Transformers with same percentage impedances for the
corresponding windings.
 Voltage Transformer
Voltage Transformers are induction type and are contained in their own SF6
compartment, separated from the other parts of the installation.

The active portion consists of a rectangular core, upon which are placed the secondary
windings and the high voltage winding.

Provision is made for up to two secondary windings for measurement and an additional
open delta winding for earth fault detection.

A synthetic film separates the different wraps of the windings. The Transformers can be
installed Any where on the substation.

Voltage Transformer Module

For rated voltage up to 145 kV inductive Transformer with cast resin coil For rated voltage
of
245 kV inductive VT with SF6 gas as main insulation. For 300 kV and above, Capacitive
Voltage Transformers are preferred Inductive type Voltage Transformer.
The single-pole inductive type Voltage Transformers (Fig. 1) can be mounted either
vertical or horizontal. They are connected to the Switchgear with the standardized
connecting flange via a barrier insulator.

The primary winding is insulated with SF6 gas and connected to the HV. by a flexible
connection. The primary winding (2) surround the core on which the secondary windings
(1) are also wound.
The connection between the secondary winding and the terminals in the external terminal
box is made through a gas tight multiple bushing.
The Transformers are equipped with two metering windings and one tertiary winding for
earth-fault protection.

Capacitor Voltage Transformer

In Switchgear for voltage above 300 kV, Capacitor Voltage Transformers are also
employed. Two systems are available:
- Transformers with high capacitance connected to an intermediate Transformer. The oil-
insulated capacitor of conventional
 design is accommodated in an enclosure filled with SF6 gas. The high-voltage
connection to the GIS is made through
a barrier insulator. The low-voltage choke and the intermediate Voltage Transformer are
housed separately in a cabinet
on the earth potential side.

- Transformers with a low capacitance accommodated in the current Transformer or in a

separate housing, connected to an
electronic

1 - Secondary winding

2 - Primary winding

3 - Terminal box

4 - Support insulator

5 - Filling valve

6 - Safety diaphragm

7 - Density Switch

(Fig. 1) Voltage Transformer (Make ABB)

Current Transformer
Current Transformers comprise air insulated cores mounted inside a cylindrical
enclosure.
The central main conductor forms the primary winding a second cylindrical
enclosure,
Between the cores and the conductor, separates the cores from the SF6 thus
preventing any risk of leakage from the LV terminals.
The number and ratings of the cores are adapted according to customer
requirements.
Current Transformers can be installed on either or both sides of the circuit-breakers
and at the ends of outgoing circuits.

Current Transformer (Make ABB) Current Transformer (Make Alostom)

1 - Gas tight enclosure 1- 1- Main conductor.
2 - Terminal box 2- 2- Secondary winding.
3 - Secondary winding 3- Shunt Insulating .

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