Manual On Transformers
Manual On Transformers
Manual On Transformers
317
Manual on
Transformers
Editors
M. Vijayakumaran
V.K. Lakhiani
V.K. Kanjlia
P.P. Wahi
April 2013
2013
ISBN 81-7336-324-2
“Reproduction of any part of this publication in any form is permissible subject to proper
acknowledgement and intimation to the publisher. The publisher/author/editors have taken
utmost care to avoid erros in the publication. However, the publisher/author/editors are in no
way responsible for the authenticity of data or information given in the book.”
(ii)
Expert Group
CHAIRMAN
Shri M. Vijayakumaran
Sr. Technical Expert
ALSTOM T&D India Ltd
Naini, Allahabad 211008
SUB-GROUP CONVENORS
(iii)
Members
(iv)
Shri S. Victor P. Selvakumar Shri J.S. Kuntia
Addl. General Manager (OS) AGM – Design
Power Grid Corporation of India Ltd. BHEL
Plot No. 2, Sector 29, Piplani,
Gurgaon, Haryana Bhopal (M.P.)
(v)
Shri. N.G. Patel Shri R.S. Thakkar
Divisional Engineer – Testing Junior Engineer
Gujarat Energy Transmission Corp. Ltd. Gujarat Energy Transmission Corp. Ltd.
Sadar Patel Vidyut Bhavan Sadar Patel Vidyut Bhavan
Race Course, Vadodara – 390007 Race Course, Vadodara – 390007
(vi)
Shri Tarun Garg Shri Vikrant Joshi
Design Head, Power Transformers Crompton Greaves Ltd.
ABB Ltd Mumbai
(vii)
Shri V.K. Kanjlia Shri P.P. Wahi
Secretary Director
Central Board of Irrigation & Power Central Board of Irrigation & Power
Malcha Marg, Chanakyapuri Malcha Marg, Chanakyapuri
New Delhi 110021 New Delhi 110021
(viii)
Message
Central Board of Irrigation and Power (CBIP) has been playing a key role to
disseminate the latest technological advancement information covering almost
all aspects of power and renewable sector and it was in 1976, CBIP brought out
detailed first edition of the Transformer Manual.
I understand that the manual issued by CBIP is being widely used by power
engineers as a reference book in the country & elsewhere.
I am happy to note that this manual is being revised/updated now under the
chairmanship of Shri M. Vijayakumaran, Sr. Technical Expert, ALSTOM
T&D India Ltd. and with the help of Expert Group members from all eminent
organizations in the country. This contains the latest updated technological
information on the subject of Transformer.
I congratulate CBIP and all experts of the Expert Group for bringing out this
manual covering latest state-of-art technology and I am sure that this document
will be of great benefit to engineering fraternity as a reference book.
A.S. Bakshi
(ix)
PREFACE
“Manual on Transformers” is the most popular publication
of CBIP. It has been widely appreciated by practising
transformer engineers associated with all facets of
transformers: Design, Materials, Manufacturing, Testing,
Erection and Commissioning. Utility Engineers and End
users have also found this manual, a good guide and
reference book.
To keep pace with the fast changing technology, it is desired that this Manual is
updated from time to time, at least once in 5 years.
Third Revision was undertaken in 2005 with a reprint in 2007 with minor
modifications.
The working group reconstituted in 2012 with experts drawn from Indian
Utilities, Institutes, Transformer Manufacturers etc. reviewed the Manual and
finalized modifications for Fourth revision to be published now in 2013.
(xi)
also has been added to facilitate readers to locate the standards, as a ready
reckoner.
I am sure that the users will find the Fourth Edition of the Manual more
meaningful.
M. Vijayakumaran
Chairman of the Expert Group
(xii)
Foreword
With the Indian economy growing year by year, the target of
providing reliable power supply to consumers is becoming
increasingly important. To meet this challenge new power
stations are being added and T&D networks are continuously
being strengthened.
As you know, the transformer is one of the most important
and vital asset in a power system. Reliability and availability
of such an asset plays an important role in the operation of
a power system. Emphasis needs to be laid on improved design, quality control
during manufacturing, use of right components / accessories, maintenance and
safety during operation of such vital equipment. The adoption of state-of-art
technology for important components like bushings & OLTC which have been
the major items causing failure of transformer is the urgent need for all concerned
professionals. The review of the protection philosophy would further improve
the performance of the system. The residual life assessment and condition
monitoring of the transformers will also add reliability to the power system.
CBIP has brought out the first Manual on Transformers in 1976. This was updated
in 1987, 1999, 2005 and again in 2007. To incorporate the latest developments
and innovations, this manual has again been updated and new sections viz. 420
kV & 800 kV Shunt reactors, Furnace transformers, Rectifier Transformers,
Traction Transformers etc. have been added. A chapter on new technologies
describing Smart Transformers, UHV Transformers, Phase shifting transformers
etc. have also been included to indicate emerging trends in Technology. For
updating this manual, CBIP had constituted the Expert Group, comprising of
highly experienced engineers from large power utilities, designs organization,
manufacturers etc. This group was headed by Shri M. Vijayakumaran, National
Representative in CIGRE Study Committee A2 on Transformers and Sr. Technical
Expert, ALSTOM T&D India Ltd., who is recipient of many National and
International awards. The expert group after working ceaselessly brainstorming/
working for more than one year have helped CBIP in updation of this document
covering all aspects of Transformers for various voltages as mentioned above.
The Central Board of Irrigation & Power wishes to acknowledge the valuable
contributions made by Shri M. Vijayakumaran, Chairman of the Expert Group
(xiii)
for revision of this manual. Contribution made by Shri Virendra K. Lakhiani,
Technical Director, Transformers and Rectifiers (India) Limited is deserves
special mention, who has put in the best efforts for updation and synthesizing
this manual.
Our thanks are also due to Conveners Shri P. Ramachandran, Sr. Advisor - Design
& Development, Power Transformers Division, ABB Ltd., Shri M.M. Goswami,
General Manager, Power Grid Corporation of India Ltd., Shri Dinkar Devate,
General Manager, NTPC Ltd., Shri R.K. Tiwari, General Manager (TCB), Bharat
Heavy Electricals Ltd., Shri A. Kulshreshtha, AGM (TRE-SPTR, FES, RPD
& T), Bharat Heavy Electricals Ltd., Shri S.K. Mahajan, DGM (TRE), Bharat
Heavy Electricals Ltd., Ms. Elizabeth Johnson, Sr. Manager - Technical Solution
Group, Alstom Grid, Shri Sanjay Kar Chowdhury, Sr. Dy. Manager, CESC Ltd.
& Members of all the Sub-Group for revision of this manual.
Contibution made by Shri R.K. Tyagi, Dy. General Manager, Power Grid
Corporation of India Ltd., Shri Ranjan Banerjee, General Manager – Technical
Services and R&D – Engg. & Technology, Larsen & Toubro Limited, Shri S.K.
Ray Mohapatra, Director, Central Electricity Authority, Shri B.V. Raghavaiah,
Unit Head, CPRI, Bhopal, Shri M.L. Jain, Sr. Vice President (Technology &
Quality), Transformer Business Unit, EMCO Ltd., Shri Y.V. Joshi, Executive
Engineer – Equip. Engg., Gujarat Energy Transmission Corp. Ltd., Shri
Anilkumar Bhatia, Deputy General Manager - Design & Technology, Crompton
Greaves Limited needs special mention.
I also appreciate the dedication & the contribution made by Shri S.K. Batra, Sr.
Manager, CBIP for getting this document revised.
I trust that this manual would cover the existing knowledge gap on this subject
and help the practising engineers in the power sector as well as students in the
technical institutions in enhancing their technical skills.
V.K. Kanjlia
Secretary
Central Board of Irrigation and Power
(xiv)
CONTENTS
Page
Preface (v)
Foreword (vii)
(xv)
SECTION CC Guidelines for Erection, Commissioning and Maintenance 277
SECTION DD Guidelines for Condition Monitoring and Diagnostic
Techniques for Power Transformers and Reactors 347
SECTION EE Guidelines for Fire Protection of Power Transformers 371
SECTION FF Guidelines for Repair of Power Transformers at Site 386
SECTION GG Guidelines for Voltage Control of Power Transformers 409
SECTION HH Guidelines for Protective Schemes for Power and
Distribution Transformers 427
SECTION II Specifications for Transformer Bushings up to
1200 kV Voltage Class 439
SECTION JJ Specifications for Valves for Transformers 455
SECTION KK Specifications for Cable Boxes for SF6 Gas Insulated
Transformer Terminations for Rated Voltages of
72.5 kV and above 463
APPENDICES
APPENDIX-I New Technologies, UHV AC/DC Transformers, Phase Shifting
Transformers, Controlled Shunt Reactors 479
APPENDIX-II Reference Standards and Books 503
APPENDIX-III Typical Quality Assurance Plan 523
APPENDIX-IV Guaranteed Technical and Additional Technical particulars 527
APPENDIX-V List of Transformer Accessories and test certificates required 537
APPENDIX-VI Design Review Parameters 543
APPENDIX-VII Salient Technical Specifications and Particulars of Power
Transformers for Power Plant Application 549
APPENDIX-VIII Test Windings for Bushing Current Transformers 559
APPENDIX-IX Pictures of Transformer Installations 563
(xvi)
Vol. I
Standard Specifications of Transformers
SECTION A
General
SECTION A
General
1.0 GENERAL DESIGN OF APPARATUS
1.1.1 Except where otherwise specified or implied herein, the transformers shall comply with
the latest edition of Indian Standard 2026 (hereinafter referred to as “IS”).
1.2.1 The transformer and accessories shall be designed to facilitate operation, inspection,
maintenance and repairs. All apparatus shall also be designed to ensure satisfactory operation
under such sudden variations of load and voltage as may be met with under working conditions
on the system, including those due to short circuits.
1.2.2 The design shall incorporate every reasonable precaution and provision for the safety
of all those concerned in the operation and maintenance of the equipment keeping in view the
requirements of Indian Electricity Rules.
1.2.3 All material used shall be of the best quality and of the class most suitable for working
under the conditions specified and shall withstand the variations of temperatures and atmospheric
conditions arising under working conditions without undue distortion or deterioration or the
setting up of undue stresses in any part, and also without affecting the strength and suitability of
the various parts for the work which they have to perform.
1.2.5 Cast iron shall not be used for chambers of oil filled apparatus or for any part of the
equipment which is in tension or subject to impact stresses. This clause is not intended to
prohibit the use of suitable grades of cast iron for parts where service experience has shown it to
be satisfactory, e.g., large valve bodies.
1.2.6 All outdoor apparatus, including bushing insulators with their mountings, shall be
designed so as to avoid pocket in which water can collect.
1.2.7 Means shall be provided for the easy lubrication of all bearings and where necessary of
any mechanism or moving part, that is not oil immersed.
1.2.8 All mechanism shall, where necessary, be constructed of stainless steel, brass or gunmetal
to prevent sticking due to rust or corrosion.
1.2.9 All taper pins used in any mechanism shall be of the split type complying with IS: 2393
for these items.
1.2.10 All connections and contacts shall be of ample section and surface for carrying
continuously the specified currents without undue heating and fixed connections shall be
secured by bolts or set screws of ample size, adequately locked. Lock nuts shall be used on stud
5
6 Manual on Transformers
connections carrying current All leads from the winding to the terminal board and bushings shall
be adequately supported to prevent injury from vibration including a systematical pull under
short circuit conditions. Guide pulls shall be used where practicable.
1.2.11 All apparatus shall be designed to minimise the risk or accidental short-circuit caused by
animals, birds or vermin.
1.2.12 Provision shall be made to fix safety fence around top cover of transformers of rating
100 MVA and above, for safe working during installation and servicing for large capacity
transformers.
1.2.13 In tank on load tap changers shall be located such that the space above the diverter
switch chamber will be free of inter connecting pipes etc. for lifting the diverter switch unit for
inspection and maintenance purposes.
1.2.14 Dryness of the insulation may be ensured by measuring the water extraction during
vacuum drying. The water extraction per tonne of insulation per hour may be limited to 5030
grams maximum. Alternatively dryness can be judged by dew point measurement.
1.3 Galvanising
1.3.2 All drilling, punching, cutting, bending and welding of parts shall be completed, and all
burrs shall be removed before the galvanising process is applied.
1.3.3 Galvanising of wires shall be applied by the hot-dipped process and shall meet the
requirements of the relevant Indian Standard. The zinc coating shall be smooth, clean and of
uniform thickness and free from defects. The preparation for galvanising itself shall not adversely
affect the mechanical properties of the wire.
1.3.4 Surfaces which are in contact with oil shall not be eleclrogalvanised/cadmium plated.
1.4 Labels
1.4.1 Labels shall be provided for all apparatus such as relays, switches, fuses, contained in
any cubicle or marshalling kiosks.
1.4.2 Descriptive labels for mounting indoors or inside cubicles and kiosks shall be of material
that will ensure permanence of the lettering. A matt or satin finish shall be provided to avoid
dazzle from reflected light. Labels mounted on dark surfaces shall have white lettering on a
black background. Danger notices shall have red lettering on a while background.
1.4.4 Labels shall be attached to panels with brass screws or with stainless steel screws or
these can be stuck with suitable adhesive also.
1.5 Bolts and Nuts
1.5.1 Steel bolts and nuts exposed to atmosphere shall be of following material:
• Size 12 mm or below - stainless steel
• Above 12 mm - steel with suitable finish like electrogalvanised with passivation
/hot dip galvanised.
1.5.2 All nuts, bolts and pins shall be locked in position with the exception of those external
to the transformer, under gasket pressure.
1.5.3 All bolts, nuts and washers exposed to atmosphere and in contact with non-ferrous parts
which carry current shall be of phosphor bronze.
1.5.4 If bolts and nuts are placed so that they are inaccessible by means of ordinary spanners,
suitable special spanners shall be provided by the supplier.
1.5.5 Bolts and nuts shall not be less than 8 mm in diameter except when used for small wiring
terminals.
1.6 Cleaning and Painting
1.6.1 Before painting or filling with oil or compound, all ungalvaniscd parts shall be completely
clean and free from rust, scale and grease, and all external surface cavities on castings shall be
filled by metal deposition.
1.6.2 All blast cleaned surfaces (except machined faces that have to be protected) must be
cleaned in accordance with ISO specification no. ISO 8501 Part l (This standard specification
is based on and now supersedes Swedish Standard SIS 05 59 00) to a minimum standard of
‘ASa21/2’ or ‘BSa21/2’ prior to paint application.
1.6.3 External and internal surfaces of all transformer tanks and chambers and other fabricated
steel items shall be cleaned of scale, rust and surface dirt by blast cleaning or other suitable
approved method. After cleaning, these surfaces should be immediately covered with paint. Hot
oil resistant varnish on white synthetic enamel/epoxy paint is to be used for painting the inside
of all oil filled chambers, including transformer tanks. Only one thin layer (~ 25 microns) of this
is to be applied.
1.6.4 Except for hardware, which may have to be removed at site, all external surfaces shall
receive at least four coats of paint. The type and thickness of paint shall be chosen to suit
pollution level at site.
1.6.5 Selection of paint system for different environmental conditions shall be in line with
ISO: 12944.
1.6.6 For rural or mild atmosphere, alkyd enamel primer and finish system may be used in
four coats to give a total dry film thickness of at least 80 microns.
1.6.7 For urban or industrial situation two coats of epoxy zinc phosphate or zinc chromate
primer topped with two coats of aliphatic polyurethane glossy finish paint is recommended.
8 Manual on Transformers
The total dry film thickness should preferably be between 100 and 130 microns.
1.6.8 In case of highly polluted area, chemical atmosphere or at a place very near the sea
coast, paint as above with one intermediate coat of high build MIO (Micaceous iron oxide) as
an intermediate coat may be used to give a total dry film thickness of 150 to 180 microns.
1.6.9 All interior surfaces of chambers or kiosks that are in contact with air shall receive
at least three coats of paint, of which the topcoat shall be of a light shade. If heaters are not
provided in the chamber, then the top coat should be of anti condensation type.
1.6.10 Any scratch, bruise or paint damage incurred during transportation and unloading at
site should be made good by the purchaser as soon as the damage is detected. This is to be done
by thoroughly cleaning the damaged area and applying the full number of coats as was applied
originally. Manufacturer should supply the necessary paint for this touch up painting at site.
1.6.11 One coat of additional paint shall be given at site over all external surfaces, including
hardware, after erection by the purchaser. Supplier shall furnish necessary information on the
make and grade of the lop-coat paint. In general, it is possible to apply enamel paint over epoxy
polyurethane coating and the vice versa is not recommended. As far as possible the make and
grade of the recoat shall be same as the original coat.
1.7 Oil
1.7.1 The transformers and all associated oil-filled equipment shall normally be supplied
alongwith the first filling of oil and 5/10 percent (as per user requirement) excess quantity of
oil shall also be supplied in non-returnable drums. The oil shall conform to IS: 335 or IEC
60296 (as per user requirement). Alternatively, if the purchaser so desires, oil may be supplied
in tankers directly from the refinery for transformers which are dispatched from factory to site
in gas filled condition.
1.8.1 The design and all materials and processes used in the manufacture of the transformer,
shall be such as to reduce to a minimum the risk of the development of acidity in the oil.
Special measures, such as nitrogen sealing or the use of inhibited oil shall not be resorted to,
unless otherwise specified by the purchaser.
2.1.1 All transformers, unless otherwise specified shall be oil immersed and may be either core
or shell type and shall be suitable for outdoor installation. Normally oil immersed transformer
shall be provided with conservator vessels. Where sealed transformers are specified, there shall
be no conservator but adequate space shall be provided for expansion of oil without developing
undue pressure. The types of cooling shall be as stated in the relevant specifications.
General 9
2.1.2 Transformers designed for mixed cooling shall be capable of operating under the natural
cooled condition upto the specified load. The forced cooling equipment shall come into operation
by pre-set contacts in WTI and the transformer will operate as a forced cooled unit.
2.1.3 Transformer shall be capable of remaining in operation at full load for 10 minutes after
failure of the oil and/or water circulating pumps or blowers without the calculated winding
hot-spot temperature exceeding 140° C. Transformer fitted with two coolers each capable of
dissipating 50 percent of the losses at Continuous Maximum Rating (CMR) shall be capable of
remaining in operation for 20 minutes in the event of failure of the oil and/or water circulating
pumps or blowers associated with one cooler without the estimated winding hot-spot temperature
exceeding 140° C.
2.2.1 Transformers provided with mixed cooling shall comply, as regards its rating, temperature
rise and overloads, with the appropriate requirements of IS: 2026 when operating with natural
cooling and with mixed cooling.
2.2.2 All transformers, except where stated shall be capable of operation continuously, in
accordance with IS loading guide at their CMR and at any ratio. In case bi-directional flow of
power is required, that shall be specifically stated by the purchaser.
2.2.3 Temperature rise test shall be performed at the tapping as desired by the purchaser. If
nothing has been stated by the purchaser, the test shall be carried out at the tapping with the
highest load losses.
2.2.4 The transformer may be operated without danger on any particular tapping at the
rated kVA provided that the voltage does not vary by more than ±10 percent of the voltage
corresponding to the tapping.
2.2.5 The transformer shall be suitable for continuous operation with a frequency variation of
±3% from normal 50 Hz. Combined voltage and frequency variation should not exceed the rated
V/f ratio by 10%.
Note: Operation of a transformer at rated kVA at reduced voltage may give rise to excessive tosses and temperature rise.
2.3.1 The voltage between phases on the higher and lower voltage windings of each transformer
measured at no-load and corresponding to the normal ratio of transformation shall be those
stated in the ordering schedule.
2.3.2 Means shall be provided in accordance with clauses 8 and 9 for varying the normal ratio
of transformation.
10 Manual on Transformers
2.4.1 Transformers shall be connected in accordance with the IS vector symbol specified in
ordering schedule of the requirements.
2.4.2 Auto connected and star/star connected transformers shall have delta connected stabilising
windings if specified in the order. Two leads from one open comer of the delta connection
shall be brought out to separate bushings. Links shall be provided for joining together the two
terminals so as to complete the delta connection and earthing it external to the tank.
2.5.1 Except where modified below, it is to be assumed that the capacity of generating plants
simultaneously connected is such that normal voltage will be maintained on one side of any
transformer when there is a short-circuit between phases or to earth on the other side. Any
transformer may be directly connected to an underground or overhead transmission line and
switched into and out of service together with its associated transmission line.
2.5.2 All transformers shall be capable of withstanding any external short-circuit according to
IS: 2026 without damage.
2.5.3 Transformers with tertiary windings shall be capable of withstanding the mechanical
and thermal effects of any external short-circuit to earth with the short-circuit MVA available at
the terminals not exceeding the values given in the ordering schedule with the neutral points on
both HV and LV windings directly connected to earth as per the requirements of IS: 2026.
Note : All inter-connected Transformers of 50MVA and above shall also be provided with over fluxing protection by
the purchaser.
2.6.1 If specified in the order, the stabilising winding shall be capable of carrying continuously
the load specified therein.
2.6.2 The design of stabilising winding shall be such as to take care of the effect of transferred
surges and the tenderer shall offer suitable surge protection wherever necessary.
General 11
2.7 Losses
2.7.1 The accepted losses of each transformer shall be stated in the order. The tolerance on the
losses of each transformer shall be in accordance with IS: 2026, except where maximum losses
are specified.
2.8 Regulation and Impedance
2.8.1 The impedance voltage at principal tap and rated kVA shall be stated in the order and
tolerance shall be in accordance with IS: 2026.
2.8.2 For all transformers, the value of impedance on any other tapping shall be generally
subject to the approval of the purchaser at the time of order. Any specific requirement may be
mentioned at the time of enquiry as a prequalification instead of at the time of order.
2.9 Flux Density
2.9.1 The maximum flux density in any part of the core and yokes, of each transformer at
normal voltage and frequency shall be such that the flux density in over-voltage condition as per
clause 2.2.5 shall not exceed 1.9 Tesla (19,000 lines per cm2).
However, in case of transformers with variable flux the voltage variation which would affect
flux density at every tap shall be kept in view while designing transformers.
2.10 Vibration and Noise
2.10.1 Every care shall be taken to ensure that the design and manufacture of all transformers
and auxiliary plant shall be such as to have minimum noise and vibration levels following good
modem manufacturing practices.
2.10.2 The manufacturers will ensure that the noise level shall not exceed the figures as per
NEMA Pub. No. TR - 1.
2.11 Suppression of Harmonics
2.11.1 All the transformers shall be designed with particular attention to the suppression of
harmonic voltage, especially the third and fifth, so as to eliminate wave-form distortion and
from any possibility of high frequency disturbances, inductive effects or of circulating currents
between the neutral points at different transforming stations reaching such a magnitude as to
cause interference with communication circuits.
3.0 CORES
The cores shall be constructed from high grade cold rolled non-ageing grain oriented silicon steel
laminations or Amorphous Metal. For medium rating transformers, the core may be constructed
of similar to M4 or better grade cold rolled non-aging grain oriented silicon steel laminations.
For larger rating transformers, core may be constructed from high-grade non-aging, cold rolled,
super grain oriented, silicon steel laminations similar to MOH / Hi-B steel or better grade.
The selection of Grade much depends upon loss capitalization formula(Section AA ) for an
optimized design and also upon stipulation in customer specification.
3.1 Magnetic Circuit
3.1.1 The design of the magnetic circuit shall be such as to avoid static discharges, development
of short-circuit paths within itself or to the earthed clamping structure and the production of flux
components at right angles to the plane of the laminations which may cause local heating.
12 Manual on Transformers
3.1.2 Every care shall be exercised in the selection, treatment and handling of core steel to
ensure that as far as is practicable, the laminations are flat and the finally assembled core is free
from distortion.
3.1.3 Adequate oxide/silicate coating is to be given on the core steel. However, laminations
can be insulated by the manufactures if considered necessary.
3.1.4 Oil ducts shall be provided where necessary to ensure adequate cooling. The winding
structure and major insulation shall not obstruct the free flow of oil through such ducts. Where the
magnetic circuit is divided into pockets by cooling ducts parallel to the planes of the laminations
or by insulating material above 0.25 mm thick, tinned copper strip bridging pieces shall be
inserted to maintain electrical continuity between pockets.
3.1.5 The framework and clamping arrangements shall be earthed in accordance with clause 5.2.
3.1.6 When insulation is provided for the core to core bolts and core to clamp plates, the same
shall withstand a voltage of 2000 2500 V AC for one minute.
3.1.7 Transformers shall withstand, without injurious heating, combined voltage & frequency
fluctuations, which produce the following over fluxing condition:
• 110 %- continuous
• 125%- for one minute
• 140%- for five seconds
4.1.2 Power transformers shall be designed to withstand the impulse and power frequency test
voltages as specified in IS: 2026.
4.1.3 The windings shall be designed to reduce to a minimum the out-of-balance forces in the
transformer at all voltage ratios.
4.1.4 The insulation of transformer windings and connection shall be free from insulating
composition liable to soften, ooze out, shrink or collapse and be non-catalytic and chemically
inactive in transformer oil during service.
4.1.5 The slacks of windings shall receive adequate shrinkage treatment before final assembly.
Adjustable devices shall be provided for taking up any possible shrinkage of coils in service.
4.1.6 The coil clamping arrangement and the finished dimensions of any oil ducts shall be
such as will not impede the free circulation of oil through the ducts.
4.1.7 No strip conductor wound on edge shall have a width exceeding generally six times its
thickness.
4.1.8 The conductors shall be transposed at sufficient intervals in order to minimize eddy
currents and equalize the distribution of currents and temperatures along the windings.
4.2.1 The windings and connections of all transformers shall be braced to withstand shocks
which may occur during transport, or due to switching short-circuit and other transient conditions
during service.
4.2.2 Coil clamping rings, if provided, shall be of steel or of suitable insulating material.
5.1 General
5.1.1 All metal parts of the transformer with the exception of the individual core laminations,
core bolts and associated individual clamping plates shall be maintained at same fixed
potential.
5.2.1 The top main core clamping structure shall be connected to the tank body by a
copper strap. The bottom clamping structure shall be earthed by one or more of the following
methods:
(b) By a connection to the loop structure on the same side of the core as the main earth
connection to the lank
14 Manual on Transformers
5.3.1 The magnetic circuit shall be earthed to the clamping structure at one point only through
a link placed in an accessible position beneath an inspection opening in the tank cover. The
connection to the link shall be on the same side of the core as the main earth connection. The
link should be brought out using bushing/terminal board on all transformers above 31.5 MVA.
5.3.2 When magnetic circuits are subdivided into separate isolated sections by duels
perpendicular to the plane of laminations all such sections should be earthed.
5.4.1 Where coil clamping rings are of metal at earth potential, each ring shall be connected
to the adjacent core clamping structure on the same side of transformer as the main earth
connections.
5.5.1 All earthing connections with the exception of those from the individual coil clamping
rings shall have a cross-sectional area of not less than 0.8 cm, Connections inserted between
laminations of different sections of core as per clause 5.3.2 shall have a cross-sectional area of
not less than 0.2 cm2.
6.0 TANKS
All transformer reactor tanks should generally be of conventional type i.e., tank body with top
cover, Bell shaped construction can be specified for 100 MVA and higher rating transformer
unless otherwise mutually agreed between Purchaser and Manufacturer
Top cover of conventional type transformer and Bell type construction may be bolted or welded
to the tank body rim. Transformers with bell type tank may have joint either at tank bottom or
close to bottom of the tank.
6.1.1 The transformer tank and cover shall be fabricated from low carbon steel suitable for
welding and of adequate thickness. The tanks of all transformers shall be complete with all
accessories and shall be designed so as to allow the complete transformer in the tank and filled
with oil, to be lifted by crane or jacks, transportation by road, rail or ship/boat without over
straining any joints and without causing leakage of oil.
6.1.2 The transformer conservator tank, if equipped with an air cell, need not be designed
for full vacuum but a vacuum-tight valve should be provided in the Buchholz relay pipe
connection.
Alternatively an equalizing connection may be provided between the inside of air cell and
conservator for evacuating the conservator along with air cell, which may be removed after
evacuation and oil filling.
General 15
6.1.3 The main tank body excluding tap-changing compartments, radiators and coolers shall
be capable of withstanding vacuum given in the following tabic:
Vacuum
Highest system
MVA rating gauge (mm of Hg)
voltage kV
pressure kN/m2
Up to 72 kV Up to 1.6 34.7 250
above 1.6 and up to 20 68.0 500
above 20 100.64 760
Above 72 kV for all MVA
ratings 100.64 760
6.1.4 The base of each tank shall be so designed that it shall be possible to move the complete
transformer unit by skidding in any direction without any damage when using plates or rails.
6.1.5 Normally a detachable base will be used, but in case transport facilities permit, a fixed
base can be used.
6.1.6 Where the base is of a channel construction, it shall be designed to prevent retention of
water.
6.1.8 Wherever possible the transformer tank and its accessories shall be designed without
pockets where gas many collect. Where pockets cannot be avoided, pipes shall be provided to
vent the gas into the main expansion pipe. The vent pipes shall have a minimum inside diameter
of 15 mm except for short branch pipes which may be 6 mm minimum inside diameter.
6.1.9 All joints other than those which may have to be broken shall be welded when required
they shall be double welded. All bolted joints to the tank shall be fitted with suitable oil-tight
gaskets which shall give a satisfactory service under the operating conditions and guaranteed
temperature rise conditions. Special attention shall be given to the methods of making hot oil
tight joints between the tank and the cover as also between the cover and the bushing and all
other outlets to ensure that the joints can be remade satisfactorily at site and with ease with the
help of semi-skilled labour.
6.2 Lifting and Haulage Facilities
(a) Lifting lugs suitable for lifting the transformer complete with oil.
(b) A minimum of four jacking lugs, in accessible positions to enable the transformer
complete with oil, to be raised or lowered using hydraulic or screw jacks. The minimum
height of the lugs above the base shall be:
• When bell joint is at tank bottom and thick bottom plate is used, 300 and 500 mm
jacking pad height may not be applicable.
6.4.1 Requirement of the roller will be specified for plinth mounted transformers. If required
only one set of roller of each size to be asked for.
6.4.2 If specified, transformers are to be provided with wheels and axles. They shall be of
such dimensions and so supported that under any service conditions they shall not deflect
sufficiently to interfere with the movement of the transformer. Suitable locking arrangements
will be provided to prevent the accidental movement of the transformer.
6.4.3 Roller/skid shall be provided with suitable rail gauge as per user requirement.
6.4.4 All rollers should be detachable and shall be made of cast iron or steel as required. The
direction of withdrawal shall be specified.
General 17
6.4.5 Wherever specified, flanged wheels shall be provided suitable for use on gauge track as
specified in the detailed specification and shall be so placed that pinch bar can be used to move
the transformer.
6.4.6 If wheels are required to swivel, they shall be arranged so that they can be turned through
an angle of 90° when the tank is jacked up clear of the rails or floor. Means shall be provided for
locking the swivel movements in positions parallel to and at right angles to the longitudinal axis
of the tank.
6.5 Conservator Vessels, Oil Gauges and Breathers
6.5.1 A conservator complete with sump and drain valve shall be provided in such a position
as not to obstruct the electrical connections to the transformer having a capacity between highest
and lowest visible levels of 7.5% of the total cold oil volume in the transformer and cooling
equipment. The minimum indicated oil level shall be with the feed pipe from the main tank
covered with not less than 15 mm depth of oil and the indicated range of oil level shall be from
minimum to maximum. For 10.0 MVA & above rating, the conservator shall be equipped with
aircell separator, unless otherwise specified.
6.5.2 If the sump is formed by extending the feed pipe inside the conservator vessel, this
extension shall be for at least 25 mm. The conservator shall be designed so that it can be
completely drained by means of the drain valve provided, when mounted as in service.
6.5.3 One end of the conservator shall be bolted into position so that it can be removed for
cleaning purposes.
6.5.4 Normally one oil gauge, magnetic/prismatic/plain type as specified shall be provided.
6.5.5 The oil level at 30°C shall be marked on the gauge.
6.5.6 Taps or valves shall not be fitted to oil gauge.
6.5.7 The oil connection from the transformer tank to the conservator vessel shall be
arranged at a rising angle of 3 to 7 degrees to the horizontal up to the Buchholz Relay and
shall consist of:
(a) For transformers up to and including 1000 kVA 25 mm inside diameter pipes as per IS:
3639
(b) For transformers from 1001 to 10,000 kVA 50 mm inside diameter pipes as per IS: 3639
(c) For transformers of over 10,000 kVA 80 mm inside diameter pipes as per IS: 3639
6.5.8 A valve shall be provided at the conservator to cut-off the oil supply to the transformer,
after providing a straight run of pipe for at least a length of five times the internal diameter of
the pipe on the tank side of the gas and oil actuated relay and at least three times the internal
diameter of the pipe on the conservator side of the gas and oil actuated relay.
6.5.9 Each conservator vessel shall be fitted with a breather in which silica gel is the dehydrating
agent and deigned so that:
18 Manual on Transformers
(b) The external atmosphere is not continuously in contact with the silica gel.
(c) The moisture absorption indicated by a change in colour of the tinted crystals, can be
easily observed from distance.
(d) All breathers shall be mounted at approximately 1,400 mm above ground level.
(e) Self indicating (blue) silica gel contains the dye cobalt chloride which has potential
health hazards.
An alternative to the blue self indicating silica gel is SILICA GEL ORANGE with
an organic indicator. The color changes from orange to light yellow as it absorbs
moisture. Automatic regenerative breather with internal heater & humidity sensor
are also available.
6.5.10 One non-return valve, which may automatically cut off the flow of oil from conservator
towards the main tank may be provided in the pipe connection between the Buchholz relay and
conservator for transformers 10 MVA and above.
6.6 Filter and Drain Valves Sampling Devices and Air Release Plugs
(c) A robust oil sampling device shall be provided at the top and bottom of the main tank.
The sampling device shall not be fitted on the filler valves specified under (a) above.
(e) For transformers above 100 MVA rating, one 100 mm bore valve shall be provided
for attaching vacuum connection and with provisions for attaching a vacuum gauge, a
pressure gauge or an oil level indicator.
6.6.2 All other valves opening to atmosphere shall be fitted with blank flanges.
Valves and valve mountings shall be provided as specified under “Cooling Plant” Clause 7.
6.7.1 All valves up to and including 50 mm shall be of gunmetal or of cast steel. Larger valves
may be of gunmetal or may have cast iron bodies with gunmetal fittings. They shall be of full
General 19
way type with internal screw and shall be opened by turning counter clock-wise when facing the
handwheel.
6.7.2 Means shall be provided for padlocking the bottom valves in the open and closed
positions. This is required for the valves where opening device like hand-wheel, keys, etc., are
the integral part.
6.7.3 Every valve shall be provided with an indicator to show clearly the position of the
valve.
6.7.4 All valves shall be provided with flanges having machined faces.
6.7.5 The drilling of valve flanges shall comply with the requirements of IS: 3639.
6.8.1 The pressure relief device shall be provided for 16 MVA & above rating transformer.
PRD shall be of sufficient sizes for rapid release of any pressure that may be generated within
the tank, and which might result in damage to the equipment. The device shall operate at a static
pressure of less than the hydraulic test pressure for transformer tank. Means shall be provided to
prevent the ingress of rain water.
6.8.2 Unless otherwise approved the relief device shall be mounted on the main tank, and, if
on the cover, shall be fitted with skirt projecting 25 mm inside the tank and of such a design to
prevent gas accumulation.
6.8.3 If a diaphragm is used it shall be of suitable design and material and situated above
maximum oil level.
6.8.4 If a diaphragm is put at the base of pipe, an oil gauge is required on the stand pipe for
indicating fracture of diaphragm.
6.8.5 One of the following methods shall be used for relieving or equalising the pressure in the
pressure relief device:
(a) An equaliser pipe connecting the pressure relief device to the conservator, or
(b) The fitting of a silica gel breather to the pressure relief device. The breather being
mounted in a suitable position for access at ground level.
6.8.6 If specified, the pressure relief valve (spring operated type) capable of releasing the
pressure in the lank when it rises above a predetermined safe limit, shall be provided. It shall
be provided with a micro switch for actuating trip contact when it operates. It shall also give
a visual indication of valve operation by raising a flag. The flag and the switch shall remain
operated until they are reset manually. The operating pressure of the pressure relief valve shall
always be less than the tank test pressure. The micro switch shall have IP 55 protection and the
fasteners shall be of rust proof material.
20 Manual on Transformers
6.8.7 PRD shall be provided with an outlet pipe which shall be taken right up to the bottom of
the transformer up to the oil catchment pit. This is to avoid injury to personnel in event of PRD
operation and subsequent splashing of oil.
6.9.1 If specified, facilities shall be provided for the mounting of internal/external neutral
current transformer(s) adjacent to the neutral terminal(s) and tank.
6.10.1 Two earthing terminals capable of carrying for 4 seconds the full lower voltage. Short
circuit current of the transformer. Provision shall be made at positions close to each of the
bottom two corners of the tank for bolting the earthing terminals to the tank structure to suit
local conditions. The design of earthing terminals shall be as per IS 3639 - Part 3 (Fittings and
accessories for Power Transformers Part 3: Earth Terminals.
6.11.1 The following plates shall be fixed to the transformer tank at an average height of
(a) A rating plate bearing the data specified in the appropriate clauses of IS: 2026
(b) A diagram plate showing the internal connections and also the voltage vector relationship
of the several windings in accordance with IS: 2026 and in addition a plan view of
the transformer, giving the correct physical relationship of the terminals. When links
are provided in accordance with clause 2.3 for changing the transformer ratio, then
approved means shall be provided for clearly indicating ratio for which the transformer
is connected. No load voltage shall be indicated for each tap. R&D plate shall also
consist of copper weight, core weight, commissioning date & factory tested capacitance
value. A warning plate shall also be provided for OCTC operation during de-energized
condition only.
(c) Where specified a plate showing the location and function of all valves and air release
cocks or plugs is to be provided. This plate shall also warn operators to refer to the
maintenance instructions before applying the vacuum treatment for drying (Fig. 2).
6.11.2 The above plates shall be of material capable to withstanding continuous outdoor
service.
6.12.1 All gaskets used for making oil tight joints shall be of proven material such as granulated
cork bonded with synthetic rubber or synthetic rubber gaskets conforming to IS: 4253, unless
otherwise specified.
General 21
22 Manual on Transformers
General 23
7.1 General
7.1.1 Radiators and coolers shall be so designed as to avoid pockets in which moisture may
collect and shall withstand the pressure tests.
7.1.2 Unless the pipe work is shielded by adequate earthed metal the clearance between all
pipe work and live parts shall be more than the clearance for live parts to earth.
24 Manual on Transformers
7.2.2 Valves shall be provided on the tank at each point of connection to the tank.
7.2.3 Where separate radiator banks are provided, the conservator vessels specified in clause
6.5 can be mounted thereon.
7.2.4 All coolers shall be suitable for mounting on a flat concrete base.
7.2.5 The oil circuit of all coolers shall be provided with the following:
7.2.6 In addition the following are to be provided only with water cooled oil coolers which
shall be as per IS: 6088.
(a) A suitable differential pressure gauge or equivalent suitable device fitted with electrical
contacts to give an alarm when differential pressure between cooler oil outlet and water
inlet pressure drops below a preset value.
(b) Oil and water flow switches, fitted with electrical contacts, in the pipe work adjacent to
the coolers.
7.2.8 Water cooled oil coolers shall be double tube type in which water shall circulate through
the inner tube and oil in between the outer tube and shell. The design of shell and tube assembly
shall be such as to facilitate cleaning without any risk of water mixing with the oil. The material
of the tube plates and tube shall be such that corrosion shall not take place due to galvanic
action. A water analysis report shall be furnished, in time, to enable supplier to ensure a suitable
material for tube and tube plates.
7.2.9 Any leakage which may take place in the oil cooler shall be of the oil into the water and
not the reverse, and means shall be provided to ensure that the pressure of the oil in the cooler
General 25
is always greater than the pressure of the water. The water pressure in the cooler will be kept as
low as possible. Further, the cooling water discharge should be free to the atmosphere to reduce
the pressure in the cooler. Provision for leakage detector system shall be provided along with
alarm contacts for water coolers.
7.3.1 The necessary oil piping shall be provided for connecting each transformer to the coolers
and oil pumps. The oil piping shall be with flanged gasket joints. Cast iron shall not be used.
7.3.2 The drilling of all water and oil pipe flanges shall comply with IS: 3639 and IS: 1536
(Section JJ -specification for valves for transformers.)
7.3.3 A suitable expansion piece shall be provided in each oil pipe connection between the
transformer and the separately mounted oil coolers.
7.3.4 Drain valves/plugs shall be provided in order that each section of pipework can be
drained independently.
7.4 Oil Pumps
7.4.1 Each forced oil cooler shall be provided with a motor driven oil pump of the submerged
motor type and of adequate capacity. It shall be possible to remove the pump and motor from
the oil circuit without having to lower the level of oil in the transformer or coolers and without
having to disturb the pump foundation fixing. Oil pump shall be capable of dealing with the
maximum output of transformer and total head which may occur in service and with the varying
head due to changes in the viscosity of the oil.
7.4.2 Each pump assembly shall be furnished with oil flow indicator with alarm contacts to
indicate normal pump operation and oil flow.
7.4.3 For mixed type cooling, the pump should be of axial flow type to permit oil circulation
when pump is idle.
7.4.4 For forced oil cooling, the coolers shall be of 2 X 50% and oil pumps 2 X 100%, one
pump running and one standby in each group.
7.4.5 Under no circumstances, the degree of forced circulation creates a static electrification
hazard in any part of a transformer under any operating condition.
7.5 Air Blowers and Ducts
7.5.1 Air blowers for use with oil coolers or for air blast cooling shall be motor driven. They
shall be suitable for continuous operation outdoors and capable of dealing with the maximum
output and total head required in service. The bearings shall be of sealed type, which does not
require frequent lubrication.
7.5.2 Air blowers shall be capable of withstanding the stresses imposed when brought up to
full speed by the direct application of full line voltage to the motor.
7.5.3 Air blowers shall be complete with all necessary air ducting and coolers shall be designed
so that they operate with a minimum of noise or drumming. In order to reduce the transmission
of noise and vibration the blowers shall be either mounted independently from the coolers or,
alternatively, an approved form of antivibration mounting shall be adopted. It shall be possible
to remove the blower complete with motor without disturbing or dismantling the cooler structure
framework.
7.5.4 Blades or runners fabricated to form hollow sections shall not be used.
7.5.5 Blades shall be suitably painted for outdoor use.
7.5.6 If fans are mounted at a height less than 2.5 m suitably painted wire-mesh guards with
a mesh not greater than 25 mm shall be provided to prevent accidental contact with the blades.
Fans mounted at more than 2.5 m height shall be provided with outside guards against birdage.
Guards shall be provided over all moving shaft and couplings.
General 27
7.6 Motors
7.6.1 Motors shall be of the squirrel cage totally enclosed weather-proof type and shall comply
with Indian Standards as applicable for continuously rated machine. The motors shall be capable
of operating at all loads without undue vibration and with a minimum of noise. They shall be
suitable for direct starting and for continuous running from 415-240 volts three-phase, 4 wire 50
Hz supply.
7.6.2 All motors shall be capable of continuous operation at any frequency between 48 and
51 Hz, together with any voltage within 5 percent of the nominal value. Motors upon which
the primary equipment depends for its continued operation at full load shall also be capable of
continuous operation at 85 percent of the nominal voltage at normal frequency without injurious
over-heating.
7.6.3 All motors shall have ball or roller bearings and grease lubricators shall be fitted with
hexagon nipples to relevant Indian Standard.
7.6.4 Vertical spindle motors shall have bearings capable of withstanding the thrust due to the
weight of the moving parts and the action of impeller.
7.6.5 The stator windings shall be adequately braced and suitably impregnated to render them
non-hygroscopic and oil resistant. Weather-proof motors shall be provided with suitable means
of breathing and drainage to prevent accumulation of water.
7.6.6 Each terminal box shall be fitted with means of terminating the external wiring for
outdoor use.
7.6.7 Varnished cambric or glass insulation shall be used for connections from the winding to
the terminals. All motor terminals shall be of the stud type and totally enclosed.
7.6.8 Each pump, or blower and its motor shall be mounted on a common base plate and the
drive shall be direct.
7.7.1 Each motor or group of motors shall be provided with a three pole electrically operated
contactor and with control gear of suitable design both for starting and stopping the motor
manually and also automatically from the contacts on the winding temperature indicating device
specified in clause 13. Additional terminals for remote manual electrical control of motors shall
be provided. Overload and single phasing protection shall be provided but no-volt release shall
not be fitted. MCB/MCCB shall be provided for the main supply. This equipment shall be
accommodated in the marshalling box specified in clause 15.
7.7.2 Where small motors are connected in groups, the group protection shall be arranged so
that it operates satisfactorily in the event of a fault occurring on a single motor.
28 Manual on Transformers
7.7.3 Where blowers and oil pumps are provided, the connections shall be arranged as to
allow the motors or groups of motors to be started up and shutdown either collectively or
individually.
7.7.4 All motor contactors and their associated apparatus shall be capable of holding in and
operating satisfactorily and without over heating for a period of ten minutes if the supply voltage
falls for the period, to 75 per cent of normal at normal frequency. The motor contactors and
associated apparatus shall be capable of normal operation with a supply voltage of 85 per cent
of the normal value and at normal frequency.
7.7.5 All contacts and other parts which may require renewal, adjustment or inspection shall
be readily accessible.
7.7.6 The control arrangements are to be so designed as to prevent the simultaneous starting
of motors of a total rating of more than 20 HP.
7.7.7 Alarm indication for failure of group of fans and oil pump shall be provided. Also for
forced oil cooled transformers, alarm indication for “low oil flow” shall be provided.
7.7.9 The start up or shut down of any pump or combination of pumps must not cause
mal-operation of any gas and oil actuated relay.
7.7.10 For transformers with OFWF cooling required to meet peak load requirements and are
thus switched on or off during the day, the oil pump shall be kept running when the transformer
is off for a short period but water circuit is switched off. In case the transformer is switched off
for a longer time, the oil pump can also be switched off but it shall be ran at least one hour earlier
before the transformer is energised again.
7.7.11 Transformers with only OFAF cooling with unit coolers shall have provision of alarm for
“more than one cooler fail”. Cooler failure alarm shall be interfaced with DCS/ECMS/SCADA
system as applicable.
7.7.12 An alternate to the conventional cooler control “Intelligent Cooler Control & Monitoring
System” which is a PLC based system can be recommended for critical power transformers,
where cooler control and monitoring are interfaced with DCS/ECMS/SCADA system as
applicable.
10.1 Besides the local and remote electrical control specified in clause 9, on-load tap changers,
when specified, should be suitable for remote electrical parallel control as in clause 10.2.
10.2.1 In addition to the methods of control as in clause 9, the following additional provision
shall be made.
10.2.2 Suitable selector switch be provided, so that any one transformer of the group can at a
time be selected as “Master”, “Follower” or “Independent”.
10.2.3 Necessary interlock blocking independent control when the units are in parallel, shall be
provided.
10.2.4 The scheme will be such that only one transformer of a group can be selected as
“Master”.
10.2.5 An out-of-step device shall be provided for each transformer which shall be arranged to
prevent further tap changing when transformers in a group operating in “Parallel control” are
one tap out-of-step.
The bushing should comply with IS 2099, IS 12676 and Section II of this specification. The over
voltage power frequency test level or the BIL of bushings should be one step higher than that
of the windings.
11.1 Transformers shall be fitted either with bushing insulators or with cable boxes, as stated
in order. Where accommodation for current transformers is required on 72.5 kV bushings and
above, the requisite details will be notified to the supplier at the time of tendering.
11.2 Special precautions shall be taken to avoid ingress of moisture into paper insulation
during manufacture, assembly, transport and erection.
11.3 Each porcelain bushing or insulator, and paper bushing shall have marked upon it the
manufacturer’s identification mark, and such other mark as .may be required to assist in the
representative selection of batches for the purposes of the sample tests.
Clamps and fittings made of steel or malleable iron shall be hot dip galvanised. All fasteners of
size 12 mm and above shall be hot dip galvanised and fasteners of size less than 12 mm shall be
of stainless steel. LV Bushing (rated current≥ 1000 Amps) palm shall be silver/tin plated.
11.4 The bushing flanges shall not be of re-entrant shape which may trap air.
30 Manual on Transformers
11.5 Bushing turrets shall be provided with vent pipes which shall be connected to route any
gas collection through the Buchholz relay. The take off point of the vent pipes shall be the top
most point on the bushing turret so that there will not be any air trapped in the -bushing turret.
11.6 The minimum clearances in air between live conductive parts and conductive parts to
earthed structure shall be as follows:
11.7 Vertical Bushings for 52 kV & above shall be of the oil filled condenser type (OIP) &
shall be of draw lead/ rod type to facilitate removal. Bushings of rating below 52 kV may be
solid porcelain or oil communicating type. Condenser type bushings shall be provided with :
12.1 Cable boxes shall be suitable for terminating the cables directly or alternatively shall be
in the form of sealing end-chambers for accommodation sealing ends into which the cable will
be terminated, as specified in the order.
12.2 Cable boxes shall be designed to accommodate all the cable joint fittings or sealing ends
General 31
required by the manufacturers of the cables, including stress/cones or other approved means for
grading the voltage stress on the terminal insulation of cables operating at voltages of 22 kV
and above, between phases. They shall also be provided with expansion chambers for the filling
medium and means of preventing the formation of air spaces when filling. Drain plugs of ample
size shall be provided to enable the filling medium to be removed quickly.
12.3 The cable boxes shall be fitted with suitable non-ferrous wiping glands with combined
armour and earthing clamps. The ends of all wiping glands shall be tinned before dispatch to site.
Wiping glands for single core cables shall be insulated from the box. Wiping glands insulation
cables shall be capable of withstanding a dry high voltage test of 2,000 volts AC for one minute.
Air insulated cable boxes for PVC cables may be provided with compression glands. Sufficient
wiping glands shall be provided for the termination of required number of cables.
12.4 Where cable boxes are provided for three core cables, the seating sockets on the two
outer phases shall preferably be inclined towards the centre to minimize bending of the cable
cores. Where there is more than one core per phase, the socket block shall be so designed as to
minimize bending of the cable cores.
12.5 Where cables for 1 kV and above are terminated in the cable box, oil filled disconnecting
chamber with removable links shall be provided for testing purposes. A barrier shall be provided
on both sides of the disconnecting chamber to prevent ingress of the oil used for filling the
chamber into the cable box or the transformer. It shall only be necessary to remove part of the
oil in the chamber itself when making the necessary testing connections.
12.6 Where sealing end chambers are provided, the disconnecting chamber may be omitted
and the facilities for testing shall be provided in the sealing end chamber itself. A barrier shall
then be provided between the sealing end chamber and the main tank subject to the provision of
the next paragraph.
12.7 The barrier between the main tank and the disconnecting or cable sealing end chamber
may be omitted, where the design is such that the cover of the disconnecting or cable sealing
end chamber can be removed without lowering any oil level other than in the chamber itself, in
order to make the necessary testing connections.
12.8 The disconnecting or sealing end chamber shall have a removable cover and the design
of the chamber shall be such that ample clearances are provided to enable either the transformer
or each cable to be subjected separately to high voltage tests when filled with transformer oil.
Insulating Fire resistant barriers should be provided between each phase of HV cable box.
12.9 An earthing terminal shall be provided in each disconnecting or sealing end chamber to
which the connections from the transformer winding can be earthed during cable testing.
12.10 The cable boxes and disconnecting or sealing end chambers shall also be capable of
withstanding for 15 minutes, both at the time of the first tests on the cables and at any subsequent
time as may be required, between phases and to earth a DC test equal to 2E kV or an AC test
equal to 4E/3 kV.
32 Manual on Transformers
12.11 During these tests the links in the disconnecting or sealing end chamber or cable box
will be withdrawn and the transformer winding with connections thereto will be earthed.
12.12 Unless otherwise approved the creepage distances and clearance to earth and between
phases shall not be less than those specified in Table 1. In case of compound filled cable box with
shrinkable tape, the allowable minimum clearances shall be subject to the agreement between
manufacturer and the user.
12.13 Cable boxes suitable for semi-fluid compound filling shall be tested with transformer oil
at room temperature and at a pressure of 0.7 kg/cm for 12 hours during which no leakage shall
occur.
12.15 Unless otherwise specified main cabling jointing and filling of cable boxes will be
carried out by the customer. However, filling medium will be supplied as a part of the cable box
by the manufacturer.
Table 1
Highest Insulating Clearance Clearance Creepage Creepage
System medium between to earth over over
Voltage phases direct porcelain to cable
kV similar surface
(mm) (mm)
material (mm)
(mm)
1.1 Ail- 25 20 25 -
3.6 Air 50 50 90 -
7.2 Ail- 90 70 - -
12 Air 130 80 192 192
Compound 50 50 75 125
24 Air 241 140 384 384
Semi-fluid 100 75 125 190
compound or oil
36 Air 351 222 576 576
Semi-fluid 125 100 150 250
compound or oil
13.1 Oil temperature indicator shall be provided as required in detail specification, i.e.,
Section E to K.
13.2 All transformers above 10 MVA shall be provided with a device for indicating winding
temperature. The device shall have a dial type indicator and in addition a pointer to register the
highest temperature reached. The number of contacts as specified will be provided.
13.3 Except where outdoor types of indicators are supplied, the temperature indicators shall
be housed in the marshalling box. If specified, for transformers above 10 MVA a remote repeater
indicator electrically operated from winding temperature indicator is to be provided for mounting
General 33
on the control panels. Unless otherwise specified the remote repeater indicator shall be of flush
mounting type.
13.4 The tripping contacts of winding temperature indicators shall be adjustable to close
between 60°C and 120°C and alarm contacts to close between 50°C and 100°C and both shall
re-open when the temperature has fallen by about 10°C.
13.5 The contacts used to control the cooling plant motors on the above devices shall be
adjustable to close between 50°C and 100°C and re-open when the temperature has fallen by any
desired amount between 15°C and 30°C.
13.6 All contacts shall be adjustable on a scale and shall be accessible on removal of the
cover. Micro switches shall be preferred to mercury switches.
13.7 The temperature indicators shall be so designed that it shall be possible to check the
operation of the contacts and associated equipment.
13.8 Connections shall be brought from the device to terminals placed inside the marshalling
box.
13.9 Cooler failure or oil and water flow alarm shall be provided as specified in clause 7.2.6.
14.1 Each transformer shall be fitted with gas and oil actuated relay equipment to IS; 3637
having contacts which close following oil surge or low oil level conditions. Micro switches shall
be preferred to mercury switches.
14.2 Each gas and oil actuated relay shall be provided with a test cock to take a flexible pipe
connection for checking the operation of the relay.
14.3 Where specified to allow gas to be collected at ground level, a pipe approximately 5 mm
inside diameter shall be connected to the gas release cock of the gas and oil-actuated relay and
brought down to a point approximately 1.25 m above ground level, where it shall be terminated
by a cock.
14.4 A machined surface shall be provided on the top of each relay to facilitate the setting of
the relays and to check the mounting angle in the pipe and the cross level of the relay.
14.5 The design of the relay mounting arrangements, the associated pipework and the cooling
plant shall be such that mal-operation of the relays shall not take place under normal service
conditions.
34 Manual on Transformers
14.6 The pipework shall be so arranged that all gas arising from the transformer shall pass
into the gas and oil-actuated relay. The oil circuit through the relay shall not form a delivery
path in parallel with any circulating oil pipe, nor shall it be tied into or connected through the
pressure relief vent. Sharp bends in the pipework shall be avoided.
14.7 When a transformer is provided with two conservators, the gas and oil actuated relays
shall be arranged as follows:
• If the two conservators are connected to the transformer by a common oil pipe, one relay
shall be installed in the common pipe.
• If the two conservators are piped separately to the transformer, two relays shall be
installed, one in each pipe connection.
• Adequate clearance between oil pipework and live metal shall be provided.
15.1 A steel weather and vermin proof enclosure having degree of protection IP 55 shall be
provided for the transformer ancillary apparatus. The box shall have domed or sloping roofs and
the interior and exterior painting shall be in accordance with clause 1.6.
15.2 The marshalling box, wherever provided shall accommodate the following equipments,
alternatively weather proof instruments can be mounted outdoor.
15.3 All the above equipments except (d) shall be mounted on panels and back of panel
wiring shall be used for interconnection.
15.4 The temperature indicators shall be so mounted that the dials are not more than 1600
mm from ground level and the door(s) are of adequate size.
15.5 To prevent internal condensation, an approved type of metal clad space heater shall be
provided, controlled by a suitable thermostat. For illumination, a suitable lamp or CFL shall be
provided whose switching shall be controlled by the door switch.
General 35
15.6 All incoming cables shall enter the kiosks from the bottom and the gland plate shall be
not less than 450 mm from the base of box. The gland plate and associated compartment shall
be sealed in suitable manner to prevent the ingress of moisture.
15.7 Undrilled gland plate shall be provided for accommodating glands for incoming and
outgoing cables.
15.8 Separate kiosk may be provided for control & power circuit of OFAF cooled Power
Transformers.
16.1 All wiring connections, terminal boards, fuses and links shall be suitable for tropical
atmosphere. Any wiring liable to be in contact with oil shall have oil resisting insulation and
the bared ends of stranded wire shall be sweated together to prevent creepage of oil along
with wire.
16.2 There shall be no possibility of oil entering connection boxes used for cables or wiring.
16.3 Panel connections shall be neatly and squarely fixed to the panel. All instruments and
panel wiring shall be run in PVC or non-rusting metal cleats of the limited compression type.
All wiring to a panel shall be taken from suitable terminal boards.
16.4 Where conduits are used, the runs shall be laid with suitable falls, and the lowest parts
on the-run shall be external to the boxes. All conduit runs shall be adequately drained and
ventilated. Conduits shall not be run at or below ground level.
16.5 When 415 volt connections are taken through junctions boxes or marshalling boxes they
shall be adequately screened and 415 “VOLTS DANGER” notices must be affixed to the outside
of the junction boxes or marshalling boxes.
16.6 All box wiring shall be in accordance with relevant IS. All wiring shall be of stranded
copper of 660 V grade and size not less than 4.00 sq mm for CT leads and not less than 2.5 sq
mm for other connections.
16.7 All wires on panels and all multicore cables shall have ferrules which bear the same
number at both ends.
16.8 At those points of interconnections between the wiring carried out by separate contractors,
where a change of number cannot be avoided, double-ferrules shall be provided on each wire.
The change of numbering shall be shown on the appropriate diagram of the equipment.
16.9 The same ferrule number shall not be used on wires in different circuits on the same
panels.
36 Manual on Transformers
16.10 Ferrules shall be provided with glossy finish to prevent the adhesion of dirt. They shall
be clearly and durably marked and shall not be affected by damp or oil.
16.11 Stranded wires shall be terminated with tinned Ross Courtney terminals, claw washers
or crimped tubular lugs. Separate washers shall be used for each wire. The size of the washer
shall be suited to the size of the wire terminated. Wiring shall in general be accommodated on
the sides of the box and the wires for each circuit shall be separately grouped. Back of panel
wiring shall be arranged so that access to the connecting stems of relays and other apparatus is
not impeded.
16.12 Wires shall not be jointed or tied between terminal points.
16.13 Wherever practicable, all circuits in which the voltage exceeds 125 volts, shall be kept
physically separated from the remaining wiring. The function of each circuit shall be marked on
the associated terminals boards.
16.14 Where apparatus is mounted on panels, all metal cases shall be separately earthed by
means of copper wire or strip having a cross-section of not less than 2 sq mm where strip is used,
the joints shall be sweated.
16.15 All wiring diagram for control and relay panel shall preferably be drawn as viewed from
the back and shall show the terminal boards arranged as in service. All diagrams shall show
which view is employed.
16.16 Multicore cable tails shall be so bound that each wire may be traced without difficulty to
its cable.
16.17 The screens or screen pairs of multicore cables shall be earthed at one end of the cable
only. The position of the earthing connections shall be shown clearly on the diagrams.
16.18 All terminal boards shall be mounted obliquely towards the rear doors to give easy
access to terminations and to enable ferrule numbers to be read without difficulty.
16.19 Terminal board rows should be spaced adequately not less than 100 mm apart to permit
convenient access to wires and terminations.
16.20 Terminal boards shall be so placed with respect to the cable gland (at a minimum distance
of 200 mm) as to permit satisfactory arrangement of multicore cable tails.
Terminal boards shall have pairs of terminals for incoming and outgoing wires. Insulating barriers
shall be provided between adjacent connections. The height of the barriers and the spacing
between terminals shall be such as to give adequate protection while allowing easy access to
terminals. The terminals shall be adequately protected with insulating dust-proof covers. One
dummy terminal block in between each trip wire terminal shall be provided. No Loop in Loop
out shall be adopted for power circuit.
16.21 No live metal shall be exposed at the back of the terminal boards.
16.22 All fuses shall be of the cartridge type.
16.23 Fuses and links shall be labeled.
16.24 The terminal blocks preferably shall be fully enclosed with removable covers & made of
molded, non-inflammable plastic material with blocks & barriers molded integrally. The terminal
blocks shall be 650V grade & have 10 A continuous rating. At least 20 % spare terminals shall be
General 37
provided on each panel. Terminal blocks for CT/PT secondary leads shall be provided with test
links & isolating facilities. Also current transformer secondary leads shall be provided with short
circuiting & earthing facilities. All CT/PT terminals shall be provided as fixed type terminals in
M. Box to avoid any hazard due to loose connection leading to CT opening or any other loose
connection. In no circumstances Plug In type connectors shall be used for CT/PT connections in
M. Box. Terminal block shall preferably be stud type suitable for ring (O) type lugs.
17.0 TESTS
17.1 Tests shall be carried out to evaluate the performance of the material and appliance
generally as per the provision of IS: 2026 and as detailed out in Section BB of this
specification.
A test method is referred in Appendix-VIII for Bushing CT Characteristic testing without passing
current to primary winding.
17.1.1 Where customers’ inspection is specified, not less than 15 days notice shall be given
to the customer in order that he may be represented. Four copies of test certificates will be
supplied.
17.2 Tests are not required to be performed on bought out equipments like oil coolers, oil
actuated relays, etc., at the works of the transformer manufacturer. Furnishing test certificates
from the original equipment manufacturer works shall be deemed to be satisfactory evidence.
Inspection of tests at the sub-contractors works will be arranged by the supplier wherever
required.
17.3 Tanks
17.3.1 Routine Tests
(a3) The radiators shall be tested for leakage by placing them horizontally in a tank filled
with clean water and applying air pressure 2 kg/cm2 for atleast 15 minutes during which
time no leakage shall occur.
(a4) The pipes shall be tested for leakage by applying air pressure of 4 kg/cm2 for 15 minutes
during which time no leakage shall occur.
(b) Transformer assembly stage
Oil pressure test to be conducted on tank with turret and all other accessories as assembled
for routine test by filling completely with oil at a pressure corresponding to twice the
normal head of oil or to normal pressure plus 35 kN/m2 whichever is lower. The pressure
to be maintained for eight hours during which time no leakage shall occur.
17.3.2 Type Tests
(a) Vacuum test (at fabrication stage)
When required by customer, one transformer tank of each design shall be subjected to
the specified vacuum as in clause 6.1.3. The tanks designed for full vacuum (760 mm of
mercury at sea level or the barometric reading at the location of test) shall be tested at a
maximum internal pressure of 3.33 kN/m2 (25 mm of Hg) for one hour i.e., 760-25=735
mm of Hg at sea level and (Barometric reading -25) mm Hg at other location.
The permanent deflection of flat plates after vacuum has been released shall not exceed
the values specified in clause 17.3.1 (al) without affecting the performance of the
transformer.
(b) Pressure test
When specified, one transformer tank of each design with its active part as assembled
for type test (i.e., including pipe work and cooling equipment and excluding PRV and
conservator when air cell is provided) shall be subjected to a pressure corresponding to
twice the normal head of oil or to normal pressure plus 35 kN/m2 whichever is lower
measured at the base of the tank and will be maintained for 8 hours during which time
no leakage shall occur.
Before conducting the pressure test, the following are to be taken care of:
(i) Pressure relief valve/relief vent are to be removed and the opening blanked.
(ii) Transformer and tap changer conservators are to be disconnected.
(iii) Diverter switch compartment of tap changer to be connected with transformer tank for
equalizing the pressure on both sides.
(iv) Oil should be completely filled and all trapped air released.
17.3.3 Note: User may also specify Tank Routine/Type Tests in line with latest revision of IEC
60076-1
When IS eventually gets revised in line with latest revision of IEC, CBIP Manual shall be
amended to fall in line with IS.
General 39
19.0 A list of guaranteed technical particulars and additional technical particulars are given in
Appendix IV. A list of standards for transformers is given in Appendix II. A list of transformer-
accessories and routine test certificate required for them is given .at Appendix V.
Neutral terminals of winding of three single phase Transformer shall be formed by connection
to an overhead common copper grounding bars, supported from tank and firewalls by using
insulators. Puncturing/support from firewall may not be permitted.
The design of critical Power Transformer/ Reactor may be reviewed by user/their consultant. The
design review shall be finalized before commencement of manufacturing activity. This design
review may be carried out inline with CIGRE “Guideline for Conducting Design Review”, 204,
SC WG12.22. A format for required Design Review parameters is given in Appendix-VI for
reference.
Salient Technical Particulars of Power Transformers for Coal Fired or Gas Based Thermal Power
Plants are given in Appendix-VII for reference.
Photographs of transformers & accessories already installed in various power projects are shown
in Appendix-IX.
SECTION B
1.0 SCOPE
The standard ratings shall be 16, 25, 63 and 100 kVA. For general requirement reference shall
be made to Sections A & BB of this manual.
2.0 STANDARDS
2.1 The materials shall conform in all respects to the relevant Indian / International Standard
Specification, latest, amendments thereof, some of them are listed below:
The Distribution Transformers to be supplied against this Specification shall be suitable for
satisfactory continuous operation under the climatic conditions prevailing at site and to be
specified by the purchaser as follows, as per IS 2026 (Part -1) Latest Revision/International
43
44 Manual on Transformers
Transformers shall be suitable for outdoor installation with three phase, 50 Hz, 11 kV system in
which the neutral is effectively earthed and these should be suitable for service under fluctuations
in supply voltage upto plus 10% to minus 15%.
3. Rated Voltage HV 11 kV 11 kV 11 kV 11 kV
4. Rated Voltage LV 433 V 433 V 433 V 433 V
5. BIL 95 kV Peak 95 kV Peak 95 kV Peak 95 kV Peak
6. Frequency 50Hz +/- 5% 50Hz +/- 5% 50Hz +/- 5% 50Hz +/- 5%
7. No. of phases Three Three Three Three
8. Connection HV Delta Delta Delta Delta
9. Connection LV Star (neutral Star (neutral Star (neutral Star (neutral
brought out and brought out and brought out and brought out and
directly earthed directly earthed directly earthed directly earthed
10. Vector group Dyn-11 Dyn-11 Dyn-11 Dyn-11
11. Type of cooling ONAN ONAN ONAN ONAN
12. Percentage impedance at 4.5 4.5 4.5 4.5
75°C
13. Permissible temperature
rise over ambient
(i) Of top oil measured 35 35 35 35
by thermometer
(ii) Of winding
measured by resistance 40 40 40 40
14. Minimum clearances in
air As per IS-1180 As per IS-1180 As per IS-1180 As per IS-1180
(a) HV phase to phase / latest latest latest latest
phase to earth (mm) 255/ 140 255/ 140 255/ 140 255/ 140
(b) LV phase to phase / 75/40 75/40 75/40 75/40
phase to earth (mm)
15. Tap changer Not applicable Not applicable Not applicable Not applicable
Specifications for Outdoor type, Completely Self Protected, 3 Phase Distribution Transformers (upto 45
and including 100 kVA)
5.1 Core
The complete design of core must ensure permanency of the core losses with continuous working
of the transformers. The value of the maximum flux density allowed in the design and grade of
lamination used shall be clearly stated in the offer.
The manufacturer should offer the core for inspection and approval by the purchaser during
manufacturing stage. Manufacturer's shall give notice for inspection with the following
documents as applicable as a proof towards use of prime core material
• Core clamping shall be with top and bottom U-shaped core clamps made of sheet steel
clamped with HT steel tie rods for efficient clamping.
• MS core clamps shall be painted with varnish or oil-resistant paint.
• MS rods shall be used as tie rods.
• Suitable provision shall be made in the bottom core clamp / bottom plate of the
transformer to arrest movement of the active part.
5.1.5 (a) The transformers core shall be suitable for over fluxing (due to combined effect
of voltage and frequency) upto 12.5% without injurious heating at full load conditions and
46 Manual on Transformers
shall not get saturated. The Manufacturer shall furnish necessary design data in support of this
situation.
5.1.6 (a) No load current shall not exceed 1% of full load current and will be measured by
energising the transformer at 433 volts, 50 c/s on the secondary. Increase of voltage of 433 volts
by 12.5% shall not increase the no load current beyond 6% of full load current.
(b) Material - Amorphous Metal
5.1.8 (b) The core shall be high quality Amorphous ribbons having very low loss formed into
wound cores of rectangular shape, bolted together to the frames firmly to prevent vibration or
noise. The complete design of core must ensure permanency of the core loss with continuous
working of the transformers. The value of the flux density allowed in the design shall be clearly
stated in the offer. Curve showing the properties of the metal shall be attached with the offer.
5.1.10 (b) No load current shall not exceed 1% of full load current and will be measured by
energising the transformer at 433 volts, 50c/s on the secondary. Increase of voltage of 433 volts
by 12.5% shall not increase the no load current beyond 5% of full load current.
Note : "Equal weightage shall be given to the transformers with Amorphous metal core and CRGO".
5.2 Windings
5.2.1 Material: Super enamel covered copper conductor / double paper covered copper
conductor. Aluminium conductors can also be used with same loss levels as of copper wound
transformers.
5.2.6 Dimensions of winding coils are very critical. Dimensional tolerances for winding coils
shall be with in limits as specified in GTP.
5.3 Oil
The insulating oil shall comply with the requirements of relevant standards IS 335 / IEC 60296
5.4 Insulation Material
5.4.1 Material: Electrical Grade Epoxy Dotted Kraft Paper shall he used for Rectangular
Coil
5.4.2 All spacers, axial wedges / runners used in windings shall be made of pre-compressed
solid press board, conforming to type B 3.1 of IEC 641-3-2. In case of cross-over coil winding
of HV all spacers shall be properly sheared and dovetail punched to ensure proper locking. All
axial wedges / runners shall be properly milled to dovetail shape so that they pass through the
designed spacers freely. Insulation shearing, cutting, milling and punching operations shall be
carried out in such a way, that there is no burr or dimensional variations.
5.5 Losses : The maximum losses at rated voltage and rated frequency permitted at 75 Deg.
C. are indicated below:
Voltage Ratio kVA Rating No load losses in watts Full load losses in watts (Max)
(Max) at 75 Deg C
11000/433-250 V 16 65 425
11000/433-250 V 25 80 615
11000/433-250 V 63 150 1100
11000/433-250 V 100 220 1575
Note: The losses mentioned above are under discussion and finalisation by BIS to revise IS:1180. The above losses
eventually may get revised if any, after said revision.
The above losses are maximum allowable and there would not be any positive tolerance.
Transformers with higher losses than the above specified values would be treated as Non-
responsive.
Transformers with losses less than those specified above will be capitalized during transformer
evaluation as indicated below. (Refer to Loss Capitalisation formula, Section AA, Loss
Capitalization factors:
Where Ec is the cost of energy ( in Rupees per unit at 11 kV feeder level). In case of non
availability of Ec (Energy cost per unit) at 11 kV feeder level, utility should consider the Bulk
Rate Tariff plus 5% as the cost of energy at 11 kV feeder level
48 Manual on Transformers
• PRICE SCHEDULE
The following format shall be filled by the manufacturer for evaluating TOC (TOC) price.
The value of impedance of transformers at 75 Deg. C shall be 4.5% subject to the tolerance
specified in the standard IS:2026.
5.7 Temperature Rise : The temperature rise over ambient of 50 deg. C shall not exceed the
limits given below:
Transformers not meeting the above limits of temperature rise shall not be accepted.
5.8.1 During testing, if it is found that the actual measured losses are more than the values
quoted by the manufacturer penalty shall be recovered from the manufacturer at double the
loss capitalization rate arrived at clause 5.5. For fraction of a kW, proportionate penalty will be
recovered.
Specifications for Outdoor type, Completely Self Protected, 3 Phase Distribution Transformers (upto 49
and including 100 kVA)
5.8.2 Transformers with temperature rise and impedance beyond guaranteed values:
5.8.2.1 Purchaser reserves the right to reject any transformer during the test at supplier's works,
if the temperature rise exceeds the guaranteed values.
5.8.2.2 Purchaser reserves the right to reject any transformer during the test at supplier's works,
if the impedance values differ from the guaranteed values including tolerance.
5.8.2.3 Purchaser also reserves the right to retain the rejected transformer and take it into service
until the manufacturer replaces it with a new transformer at no extra cost. The delivery as per
contract will be counted when the new transformer as per specification is provided by the
manufacture.
5.9 Tank
The transformer tank can be with radiator fins/ rounded or elliptical cooling tubes or made of
corrugated panels.
The transformer tank shall be of robust construction rectangular /octogonal in shape and shall
be built up of tested MS sheets.
The internal clearance of tank shall be such that, it shall facilitate easy lifting of core with coils
from the tank without dismantling LV bushings.
All joints of tank and fittings shall be oil tight and no bulging should occur during service.
The tank design shall be such that the core and windings can be lifted freely. The tank plate shall
be of such strength that the complete transformers when filled with oil may be lifted bodily by
means of lifting lugs. Inside of tank shall be painted with varnish/hot oil resistant paint.
The four walls of the tank shall be made of Two "L" shaped sheets (without joints) fully welded
at the corners from inside and outside of the tank for withstanding a pressure of 0.8 kg/cm2 for
10 minutes.
The tank shall be reinforced by angle welded on all the outside walls on the edge of the tank to
form two equal compartments. Permanent deflection when the tank without oil is subject to a
vacuum of 525 mm of mercury for octogonal tank and 760 mm of mercury for round tank, shall
not be more than 5 mm upto 750 mm length and 6.5 mm upto 1250 mm length. The tank shall
further be capable of withstanding a pressure of 0.8 kg/sq cm (g) and a vacuum of 0.3 kg/sq cm
(g) without any deformation.
The radiators can be tube type or fin type or pressed steel type to achieve the desired cooling
and the same shall be capable of giving continuous rated output without exceeding the specified
temperature rise. 4 Nos. welded heavy duty lifting lugs of MS plate 8 mm thick (min) suitably
50 Manual on Transformers
reinforced by vertical supporting flat welded edgewise below the lug shall be provided on the
side wall.
4 Nos. of welded heavy duty pulling lugs of MS plate 8 mm thick (min) shall be provided to pull
the transformer horizontally.
Top cover fixing bolts of Galvanised Iron adequately spaced and 6 mm Neoprene bonded cork
gaskets conforming to IS 4253 part-II shall be placed between tank and cover. The bolts outside
tank shall have 2 flat washers and one spring washer.
The transformer tank shall be of robust construction corrugation in shape and shall be built up
of CRCA sheets of 1.2 mm thick.
The internal clearance of tank shall be such that, it shall facilitate easy lifting of core with coils
from the tank, with CCA (core-coil assembly), HV & LV bushings mounted on Top cover.
All joints of tank and fittings shall be oil tight and no bulging should occur during service.
The tank design shall be such that the core and windings can be lifted freely. The tank plate shall
be of such strength that the complete transformers when filled with oil may be lifted bodily by
means of lifting lugs. Inside of tank shall be painted with varnish / hot oil resistant paint.
Corrugation panel shall be used for cooling. The transformer shall be capable of giving
continuous rated output without exceeding the specified temperature rise.
2 Nos. welded heavy duty lifting lugs of MS plate 8 mm thick (min) suitably reinforced are to
be provided.
Top cover fixing bolts of galvanized iron and 6 mm Neoprene bonded cork gaskets conforming
to IS 4253 part-II / nitrile rubber shall be placed between tank and cover. The bolts outside tank
shall have 2 flat washers and one spring washer.
Tanks with corrugations and without conservator shall be tested for leakage test at a pressure of
0.15kg/sq cm measured at the top of the tank
In this type of construction tank is designed to have cover welded to the curb of tank.
Space is provided above the core coil assembly where inert gas cushion system accommodates
the oil expansion under variable pressure. The tank should be of stiff construction able to
withstand pressure of 2 atmospheres.
Specifications for Outdoor type, Completely Self Protected, 3 Phase Distribution Transformers (upto 51
and including 100 kVA)
5.10 Conservator
On Transformers of 100 kVA rating with rectangular plain tank the provision of conservators is
obligatory. For other ratings manufacturer may adopt their standard practice. Conservator is not
required in transformers with corrugated tank.
When a conservator is provided, oil gauge and the plain or dehydrating breathing devise shall be
fixed to the conservator which shall also be provided with a drain plug and a filling hole (M30
normal size thread) with cover. The capacity of a conservator tank shall be designed keeping in
view the total quantity of oil and its contraction and expansion due to temperature variations. In
addition the cover of main tank shall be provided with an air release plug to enable air trapped
within to be released, unless the conservator is so located as to eliminate the possibility of air
being trapped within the main tank.
The inside diameter of the pipe connecting the conservator to the main tank should be within20
to 50 mm and it should be projected into the conservator so that its end is approximately 20
mm above the bottom of the conservator so as to create a sump for collection of impurities. The
minimum oil level (corresponding to -5 deg C) should be above the sump level.
5.12 Bushings
The bushings shall conform to the relevant standards specified and shall be outdoor type.
The bushing rods and nuts shall be made of brass material 12 mm diameter for both HT &
LT. The bushings shall be fixed to the transformers on side with straight pockets and in the
same plane or on the top cover. Arcing horns or lightning arrestors shall be provided on HV
bushings.
For 11 kV, 17.5 kV class bushings and for 0.433 kV, 1.1 kV class bushings shall be used. Bushings
with plain sheds as per IS-3347 shall be mounted on the side of the Tank and not on top cover.
A minimum phase to phase clearance of 75 mm for LV (upto 1.1 kV bushings) and 255 mm for
HV bushings shall be obtained with the bushing mounted on the transformer.
The terminal arrangement shall not require a separate oil chamber not connected to oil in the
main tank.
The LV bushing and HV bushing stems shall be provided with suitable terminal connectors so
as to connect the jumper without disturbing the bushing stem. Connectors shall be with eye bolts
so as to receive 55 sq mm conductor for HV.
52 Manual on Transformers
High voltage phase windings shall be marked both in the terminal boards inside the tank and on
the outside with capital letter 1U, IV, 1W and low voltage winding for the same phase marked
by corresponding small letter 2U, 2V, 2W. The neutral point terminal shall be indicated by the
letter 2N. Neutral terminal to be brought out and connected to local grounding terminal by an
Earthing strip.
9 kV, 5 kA Metal Oxide Lightning Arresters as per relevant standard, one number per phase
shall be fitted under the HV bushings with GI earth strip 25x4 mm connected to the body of the
transformer with necessary clamping arrangements. The metal oxide lightning arresters shall be
of reputed make.
5.17 Protection
The transformers shall have the following Completely Self Protection (CSP) features:
Specification for the HV fuses: Expulsion/any other suitable type of fuse placed in series with
the primary winding. This fuse is mounted normally inside of the primary bushing for the three
phases and is connected to the high voltage winding through a terminal block. This has to protect
that part of the electrical distribution system which is ahead of the distribution transformers from
faults which occur inside the distribution transformer i.e., either in the windings or some other
Specifications for Outdoor type, Completely Self Protected, 3 Phase Distribution Transformers (upto 53
and including 100 kVA)
part of the transformer. It shall be ensured that this fuse does not blow for faults on the secondary
side (LT side) of the transformer i.e., the blowing characteristics of the fuse and LT breaker shall
be so coordinated such that the fuse shall not blow for any faults on the secondary side of the
transformer beyond LT breakers and those faults shall be cleared by the LT breaker only.
(a) Internally mounted oil immersed LT breaker on the LV side of the transformer:
All LT faults after the breaker shall be cleared by this breaker. As such it shall be designed for
perfect coordination with the HT fuse link. The Manufacturer shall furnish the time / current
characteristics of LT circuit breaker and 11 kV fuses for various current multiples.
The two characteristics shall be drawn on the same sheet to indicate coordination between the
circuit breaker and fuse. The Manufacturer shall carry out coordination test as indicated above
and this forms one of the tests for acceptance test.
The breaker shall be coordinated thermally with the transformer design to follow closely the
variations of coil temperature due to fluctuating loads and ambient temperatures.
This is to be accomplished by connecting the breaker in series between the secondary winding
and the secondary bushings. The breaker shall be located in the same oil as the core and coil
assembly so that the bimetal are sensitive to the temperature of oil as well as the load current
The circuit breaker shall also be closed and opened manually standing on ground. The current
carrying parts of breakers shall be copper plus a set of copper tungsten current interrupting
contacts.
The cross-section of the current carrying parts of the breaker shall withstand the full load current
at a current density not more than 2.5A/sq. mm (for additional mechanical strength the area
should be more).
(b) MCCB
3 pole MCCB (confirming to IS 13947) from reputed manufacturers of appropriate rating with
inverse time characteristics for overload & instantaneous magnetic trip (trip time less than 10
mS at 0.4 lagging p.f.) for short circuits shall be provided after the LT bushing in the distribution
box. All plastic material shall comply to glow wire test as per relevant IS. Type test report from
NABL accredited laboratory shall be submitted.
A distribution box (made of MS or SMC or FRP) shall be provided as an integral part of the
transformer to be mounted on the tank before installation on the pole. LT bushing shall be inside
the distribution box and a facility for sufficient number of outgoing feeders through cable glands
shall be provided. Distribution box shall also have provision for installation of energy meter.
Distribution box shall be designed for out-door duty with minimum IP - 55 protection. It shall
have pad-locking arrangement.
54 Manual on Transformers
A signal light shall be provided to give information about the loading condition of the transformer.
It shall forewarn any overloading problem at the installation such that a change out of the existing
transformer with a higher capacity transformer can be planned. The signal light mechanism shall
not reset itself when the load drops from the overloaded condition. The signal light shall remain
lighted once the signal light contacts close due to overload and can be turned off by manual
operation. (The signal light shall not give indication for momentary overloading).
5.18 Fittings
5.19 Fasteners
All bolts, studs, screw threads, pipe threads, bolt heads and nuts shall comply with the appropriate
Indian Standards for metric threads, or the technical equivalent.
Specifications for Outdoor type, Completely Self Protected, 3 Phase Distribution Transformers (upto 55
and including 100 kVA)
Bolts or studs shall not be less than 6 mm in diameter except when used for small wiring
terminals.
Wherever possible bolts shall be fitted in such a manner that in the event of failure of locking
resulting in the nuts working loose and falling off, the bolt will remain in position.
All ferrous bolts, nuts and washers placed in outdoor positions shall be treated to prevent
corrosion, by hot dip galvanising, except high tensile steel bolts and spring washers which shall
be electro galvanised/ plated. Appropriate precautions shall be taken to prevent electrolytic
action between dissimilar metals.
Each bolt or stud shall project at least one thread but not more than three threads through the
nut, except when otherwise approved for terminal board studs or relay stems. If bolts nuts are
placed so that they are inaccessible by means of ordinary spanners, special spanners shall be
provided.
The under base of all transformers shall be provided with two 75 x 40 mm channels 460 mm
long with holes to make them suitable for fixing on a platform or plinth
The transformers shall be suitable for loading as per IS: 6600 / 2026-7.
6.0 TESTS
Short Circuit Withstand Test: Thermal and dynamic ability including test as per IS 2026
part-V.
• Transformer tank together with its radiator and other fittings shall be subjected to
pressure corresponding to twice the normal pressure or 0.35 kg/cm2 whichever is lower,
measured at the base of the tank and maintained for an hour. The permanent deflection
of tie flat plates after the excess pressure has been released, shall not exceed the figures
for vacuum test.
• The pressure relief device shall be subject to increasing fluid/air pressure. It shall operate
before reaching the test pressure as specified in the above clause. The operating pressure
shall be recorded. The device shall seal-off after the excess pressure has been released.
• Oil samples (one sample per lot) to comply with IS 1866.
• Single phase LV excitation current at all three phases (for reference)
6.4 Type Tests to be Conducted on one Unit
In addition to the tests mentioned above the following tests shall be conducted.
• Temperature rise test.
• Lightning impulse withstand voltage test:
Oil samples (before and after short-circuit and temperatures rise test) for each tested
transformer.
SECTION C
1.0 SCOPE
1.1 This section covers oil immersed naturally cooled 11 kV / 250V* and 11 kV/√3 / 250V*
single phase Completely Self Protected distribution transformers, but does not purport to include
all the necessary provisions of a contract. For general requirements and tests, reference shall be
made to sections A to BB of the Manual.
2.0 STANDARDS
2.1 The materials shall conform in all respects to the relevant Indian Standard Specifications
with latest amendments/edition thereof:
Note : * REC Specification mention 230 V
59
60 Manual on Transformers
The Distribution Transformers to be supplied against this Specification shall be suitable for
satisfactory continuous operation under the climatic conditions prevailing at site and to be
specified by the purchaser as follows as per IS 2026 (Part-I) latest revision. International
Standards tabulated above.
(i) Location :
(ii) Max ambient air temperature (Deg.C) :
(iii) Min. ambient air temperature (Deg.C) :
(iv) Max. average daily ambient air temperature (Deg.C) :
(v) Max. yearly weighed average ambient temperature (Deg.C) :
(vi) Max. altitude above mean sea level (m) :
The transformers shall be suitable for outdoor installation with Single phase, 50 c/s 11 kV
systems in which the neutral is effectively earthed and they should be suitable for service under
fluctuations in supply voltage upto plus 10% to minus 15%.
Rated HV side value (11/√3 or 11 kV) shall be specified in the detailed Guaranteed Technical
Particulars by Purchaser
Table 1
For 11 kV transformers both ends of primary winding shall be brought out through HV
bushings. For 11 kV/ √3 transformers, neutral end of the primary HV winding shall be bought
out for connecting to ‘Neutral’ supply wire through 1.1 kV bushing. There shall be provision for
connecting ‘Neutral’ terminal, to local ‘Earth’ by way of a tinned Copper strip, of adequate size
and dimension. The secondary winding shall be connected to two LV bushings.
5.2 Core
Transformer core shall have wound core construction using new and high quality CRGO steel with
heat resistant insulating coating or Amorphous Metal. The laminations shall be free from burrs
& edge bends. Air gap in the core assembly shall be avoided. The core shall be properly stress
relieved by annealing in inert atmosphere as per core material manufacturer’s recommendations.
Amorphous metal core shall be annealed under magnetic field. The transformer shall be suitable
for over fluxing (due to combined effect of voltage and frequency) upto 12.5% without injurious
heating. The operating flux density shall be such that there is a clear safe margin over the over-
fluxing limit of 12.5%.
Following documents as applicable shall be submitted during inspection as a proof towards use
of prime core material
HV and LV windings shall be wound from copper conductors.Aluminium conductors can also
be used with same loss levels as of copper wound transformers. The HV winding conductor
62 Manual on Transformers
shall be covered with Super enamel & LV winding with DPC / Super Enamel. The inter layer
insulation shall consist of epoxy resin coated paper or epoxy resin dotted paper. The windings
shall be progressively wound in LV - HV coil design for better voltage regulation and mechanical
strength. Compression bonding of the windings shall be ensured by deploying suitable press in
the winding process or by curing of epoxy paper insulation in a suitable press. The core coil
assembly shall be dried in an oven. The type of winding shall be indicated, whether LV windings
are of conventional to type or foil wound.
Joints in the winding shall be avoided. However if joining is necessary, the joints shall be
properly brazed & finished.
5.4 Oil
5.4.1 The insulating oil shall be new and shall comply with the requirements of IS 335. Use
of recycled oil is not acceptable.
5.4.2 Oil shall be filtered & tested for BDV & moisture content before filling. Oil filling shall
be carried under vacuum of 5 torrMin.
Testing of oil sample for BDV & moisture content from assembled transformers shall be carried
out as acceptance test in line with IS 1866.
The inter layer insulation shall be of epoxy resin bond paper. The core/coil assembly shall be securely held
in position to avoid any movement under short circuit conditions.
5.5 Losses : The maximum losses at rated voltage and rated frequency permitted at 75 Deg.C. are
indicated below:
No load losses (Max) - CRGO No load losses (Max) Full load losses in watts
KVA Rating watts Amorphous watts (Max) at 75 Deg C watts
5 25 8 135
10 30 12 180
16 45 17 230
25 55 25 310
Note: The losses mentioned above are under discussion and finalisation by BIS to revise IS: 1180. The above losses
eventually may get revised if any, after said revision.
The above losses are maximum allowable and there would not be any positive tolerance. Transformers
with higher losses than the above specified values would be rejected.
Transformers with losses less than those specified above will be capitalized during bid evaluation as per
loss capitalization formula as given below.
Specifications for Outdoor Type, Completely Self Protected, Single Phase Distribution Transformers 63
(Single Phase 11 kV/250 V & 11/√3 kV/250V, 5, 10, 16 & 25 KVA Ratings)
Total Ownership Cost (TOC) after loss capitalization = Quoted Price + NLL X A + LLxB
Transformers with losses less than those specified above will be capitalised during evaluation as
indicated below. (Refer to Loss Capitalisation formula, SectionAA).
Price schedule:
The following format shall be filled by the manufacturer for evaluating TOC.
5.6.1 Loss values beyond guaranteed values, but less than Max. losses specified at cl. 5.5
-During testing, if it is found that the actual measured losses are more than the values quoted,
penalty shall be recovered from the manufacturer at double the loss capitalization rate arrived at
clause 5.5. For fraction of a Watt, proportionate penalty will be recovered.
5.6.2 Transformers with temperature rise and impedance beyond guaranteed values:
5.6.2.1 Purchaser reserves the right to reject any transformer during the test at supplier’s works,
if the temperature rise exceeds the guaranteed values.
64 Manual on Transformers
5.6.2.2 Purchaser reserves the right to reject any transformer during the test at supplier’s works,
if the impedance values differ from the guaranteed values including tolerance.
5.6.2.3 Purchaser also reserves the right to retain the rejected transformer and take it into
service until the Manufacturer replaces it with a new transformer at no extra cost. The delivery
as per contract will be counted when the manufacturer provides the new transformer as per
specification.
5.6.2.4 Transformers having losses above the values specified in the clause 5.5 shall be
rejected.
5.7 Tank
The oil volume inside the tank shall be such that even under the extreme operating conditions,
the pressure generated inside the tank does not exceed 0.4 kg/cm2 positive or negative. There
must be sufficient space from the core to the top cover to take care of oil expansion.
The tank cover shall have plasticised surface at the top to guard against bird faults. Alternately,
suitable insulating shrouds shall be provided on the bushing terminals.
The Transformer tank shall be of robust construction round in shape and shall be built up of
tested CRCA / MS sheet. The tank shall be capable of withstanding a pressure of 1 kg/cm2 (g)
and a vacuum of 760 mm of Hg for 30 minutes without any permanent deflection (Air pressure
test shall be conducted as per IS -1180)
The L - seam joint, C - seam joint and all fittings and accessories shall be oil tight and no
deflection / bulging should occur during service.
The circular base plate edges of the tank should be folded upward, for at least 25 mm, to have
sufficient overlap with vertical sidewall of the transformer.
Tank shall have permanent lugs for lifting the transformer bodily and there shall be facilities for
lifting the core coil assembly separately.
The transformer tank and the top cover shall be designed in such a manner as to leave no
external pockets in which water can lodge.
The transformer shall be provided with two mounting lugs suitable for fixing the transformer to
a single pole by means of 2 bolts of 20 mm diameter as per ANSI C 57.12.20.
• The top cover shall be fixed to the tank through clamping only.
• HV bushing pocket shall be embossed to top side of the top cover so as to eliminate
ingressing of moisture and water.
• The edges of the top cover shall be formed, so as to cover the top end of the tank and
gasket.
Sealing gaskets - Continuous (without joint) oil resistant high quality Nitrile / neoprene /
Polyurethane rubber gaskets conforming to Type-III as per latest IS-11149 shall be provided
between tank & top cover and for fixing the bushings.
Tank sealing - The transformer shall be of sealed tank construction with welded or bolted
cover which seals the interior of the tank from atmosphere and in which gas volume plus oil
volume remains constant. The space on the top of the oil shall be filled with dry air or nitrogen.
The nitrogen plus oil volume inside the tank shall be such that even under extreme operating
conditions, the pressure generated inside the tank does not exceed 0.4 kg/cm2 positive or
negative. The nitrogen shall conform to commercial grade of the relevant Standard.
For 11/√3 kV Transformers, Neutral end of the primary HV winding shall be brought out
for connection to ‘Neutral’ supply wife through 1.1 kV bushings. ‘Neutral’ terminal shall be
connected to transformer tank by way of a tinned Copper strip of adequate size and dimension.
The secondary winding shall be connected to two LV bushings. HV terminal shall be designed to
directly receive ACSR conductor upto 7/2 59 mm (without requiring the use of lug) and the LV
terminals shall be suitable for directly receiving LT cables (aluminium) ranging from 10 sq mm
to 25 sq mm both in vertical and horizontal position and the arrangements should be such as to
avoid bimetallic corrosion. Terminal connectors must comply as per IS : 5561.
5.10 Bushings
For HV, 12 kV class bushings shall be used and for LV, 1.1 kV class bushings shall be used.
The HV bushings shall be fixed to the top cover of the transformer and the LV bushings shall
be fixed to transformer on sides and in the same plane. The bushing rods and nuts shall be of
brass.
The terminal arrangement shall not require a separate oil chamber not connected to oil in the
main tank.
There shall be a rating plate on the transformer containing the information given in the relevant
Indian Standard. The HV winding terminals shall be marked 1.1 and 1.2 for 11 kV/√3 HV
winding. 1.2 terminal will be connected to neutral. In case of 11 kV HV winding the terminal
shall be marked as 1.1 - 1.2. The corresponding secondary terminal shall be marked as 2.1 and
2.2.
5.12 Protection
Suitable replaceable fuse shall be placed inside the transformer, in series with the primary
winding. The fuse on primary side of the distribution transformer shall take care of any fault
occurring inside the transformer itself. The characteristic of the fuse and LT breaker shall be
well coordinated so that the fuse shall not blow for any faults on the secondary side of the
transformer beyond LT Breaker and those faults shall be cleared by LT breaker only. The fuse
shall confirm to IS 9385 and shall be tested for short circuit current.
This breaker shall clear all LT faults after the breaker. As such it shall be designed for perfect
coordination with the HT fuse for various current multiples. The two characteristics shall be
drawn on the same sheet to indicate coordination between the circuit breaker and HV fuse. The
manufacturer shall carry out coordination test as indicated above, and this forms one of the tests
for acceptance. The LT breaker shall also be coordinated with overload characteristics of the
transformer. The reference temperature for calibration shall be 40 Deg C.
Arrangement shall be made so that the circuit breaker can be closed and opened manually
standing on ground.
The cross section of the current carrying parts of the breaker shall withstand the full load current
at a current density not more than 2.5 A/sq.mm (for additional mechanical strength the area
should be more). Rated short circuit breaking capacity of the breaker shall not be less than 2.5
kA. The circuit breaker shall confirm to IS-13947 with power factor 0.4 lagging. Time current
characteristics & other requirements shall be in line with IS 13947 (latest version).
SL. No. Test current Initial test conditions Time limits of tripping/ no Remarks
tripping
1. 1.05 In Cold l ≥ 2.5h No tripping
2. 1.20 In Immediately after Sl.no. 1 I0 min ≤ t ≥ 2h Tripping
3. 1.30 In Cold t ≤ 30 min Tripping
Specifications for Outdoor Type, Completely Self Protected, Single Phase Distribution Transformers 67
(Single Phase 11 kV/250 V & 11/√3 kV/250V, 5, 10, 16 & 25 KVA Ratings)
Manufacturer shall offer either internally mounted oil immersed circuit breaker or MCCB as
specified below. (Utilities may specify any one option).
The breaker shall be located in the same oil as the core and coil assembly so that the bimetal is
sensitive to the temperature of oil as well as the load.
(b) MCCB
Double pole MCCB (confirming to IS 13947) from reputed manufacturers of appropriate rating
with inverse time characteristics for overload & instantaneous magnetic trip (trip time less
than 10 mS at 0.4 lagging p.f.) for short circuits shall be provided after the LT bushing in the
distribution box. All plastic material shall comply to glow wire test as per relevant IS. Type test
report from NABL accredited laboratory shall be submitted.
A distribution box (made of MS or SMC or FRP) shall be provided as an integral part of the
transformer to be mounted on the tank before installation on the pole. LT bushing shall be inside
the distribution box and a facility for sufficient number of outgoing feeders through cable glands
shall be provided. Distribution box shall also have provision for installation of energy meter.
Distribution box shall be designed for out-door duty with minimum IP - 55 protection. It shall
have pad-locking arrangement.
The distribution box shall be equipped with an LED to indicate tripping of LTCB. On resetting
of LTCB the LED shall be automatically switched off.
High surge capacity 9 kV, 5 kA metal oxide lightening arrester conforming to 1S-3070 (Pt-III)
shall be mounted on the transformer & clamped securely to the lank, to protect the transformer
and associated line equipment from the occasional high voltage surges resulting from lightning
or switching operations. The Earthing terminal of the lightning arresters shall be connected
68 Manual on Transformers
solidly to the Earthing terminal on the tank body. Lightning arrestors with polymer insulators in
line with relevant IEC shall also be acceptable.
The transformer shall be equipped with a self-sealing pressure release device, designed to
operate at a minimum pressure of 8 psi (0.564 kg/ cm2). The PRD shall be provided in the low-
voltage terminating portion of the tank above top oil level. Inlet port shall be V4 inch or longer
NPT. Resealing pressure shall be 0.3 kg/cm2
5.13 Fittings
5.14 Fasteners
All bolts, studs, screw threads, pipe threads, bolt heads and nuts shall comply with the appropriate
Indian Standards for metric threads, or the technical equivalent.
Bolts or studs shall not be less than 6 mm in diameter except when used for small wiring
terminals.
Specifications for Outdoor Type, Completely Self Protected, Single Phase Distribution Transformers 69
(Single Phase 11 kV/250 V & 11/√3 kV/250V, 5, 10, 16 & 25 KVA Ratings)
Wherever possible bolts shall be fitted in such a manner that in the event of failure of locking
resulting in the nuts working loose and falling off, the bolt will remain in position.
All ferrous bolts, nuts and washers placed in outdoor positions shall be treated to prevent
corrosion, by hot dip galvanising, except high tensile steel bolts and spring washers which shall
be electro-galvanised/ plated. Appropriate precautions shall be taken to prevent electrolytic
action between dissimilar metals.
Each bolt or stud shall project at least one thread but not more than three threads through the nut,
except when otherwise approved for terminal board studs or relay stems. If bolts nuts are placed
so that they are inaccessible by means of ordinary spanners, special spanners shall be provided.
Taper washers shall be provided where necessary.
6.0 TESTS
Impulse voltage test: As per clause no. 13 (with chopped wave) of IS-2026 part-III as per latest
version. BIL for 11 kV shall be 95 kV peak
Short Circuit Withstand Test: Thermal and dynamic ability including test as per IS 2026
part-V.
70 Manual on Transformers
In addition to the tests mentioned above the following tests shall be conducted.
Specification, with latest amendments thereof, some of them are listed below: However, prior
agreement with customer is necessary for standard to be followed.
Indian Standard Title International & Internationally
recognised standard
IS -2026 Specification for Power Transformer Outdoor IEC 60076
IS- 1180 Distribution Transformer upto and including 100
IS 12444 kVA Specification for Copper Wire Rod ASTM B-49
IS -5 Specification for Colours for Ready Mixed Paints BS 148, D-1473, D-1533- 1934
IS-2099 Specification for High Voltage Porcelain Bushings IEC Pub 296
IS – 7421 Specification for Low Voltage Bushings DIN 42531 to 33
IS– 3347 Specification for Outdoor Bushings ASTM B - 233
IS - 5484 Specification for Al Wire Rods IEC 60137
IS -9335/IS- 1576 Specification for Insulating Kraft Paper
IS – 6600 / Specification for Insulating Press Board
IS 2026-7 Guide forLoading of Oil Immersed Transformers
4.3 For ratings greater than 500 kVA On-load tapchanger may be provided for variation of
HV voltage from plus 5% to minus 15% in steps of 1.25%.
433 — 3
11000 75 28
33000 170 70
Vector Symbol.......Dyn11
Note: 1. Note: The losses mentioned above are under discussion and finalisation by BIS to revise
IS:1180. The above losses eventually may get revised if any, after said revision.
2. For 22/0.433 kV transformers losses of33/0.433 kV shall be applicable.
76 Manual on Transformers
9.1 Core
The core shall be stacked type generally of high grade cold rolled grain annealed steel
lamination having low loss and good grain properties, coated with hot oil proof insulation,
bolted together and to the frames firmly to prevent vibration or noise. The complete
design of core must ensure permanency of the core losses with continuous working of the
transformers.
Channel frames on LV side to be reinforced at equidistance, if holes / cutting is done for LT lead
in order to avoid bending of channel.
9.1.3 The transformers core shall be suitable for over fluxing (due to combined effect of
voltage and frequency) upto 10% without injurious heating at full load conditions and shall not
get saturated.
9.1.4 No load current shall not exceed 1% of full load current for all ratings covered under this
section Increase in secondary voltage of 433 volts by 10% shall not increase the no load current
beyond 6% of full load current for ratings below 315 kVA and 4% of full load current for ratings
above 315 kVA.
9.2 Windings
9.2.1 Material: Super enamel covered/Double paper covered (DPC) Copper / Aluminium
round/strip conductor.
9.2.2 LV winding shall be of strip type copper / Aluminium conductor or copper / aluminium
foil type.
9.2.3 HV coil is wound over LV coil as crossover coils or continuous disc coils.
The choice of copper / aluminium as winding material should be left to customer at the time of
tendering.
9.2.4 Inter layer insulation shall be Kraft paper/Epoxy dotted paper. Proper bonding of inner
layer insulation with the conductor shall be ensured.
Specifications for Three Phase Distribution Transformers (above 100 kVA and upto 33 kV class) 77
9.3 Oil
The insulating oil shall comply with the requirements of relevant standards IS 335 / IEC:60296
The temperature rise over ambient of 50 deg C shall not exceed the limits described below:
Top oil temperature rise measured by thermometer : 35 Deg.C
Winding temperature rise measured by resistance : 40 Deg.C
9.5 Insulation Material
All spacers, axial wedges / runners used in windings shall be made of pre-compressed Pressboard—
solid, conforming to type B 3.1 of IEC 641-3-2. In case of cross-over coil/continuous disc winding
of HV all spacers shall be properly sheared and dovetail punched to ensure proper locking. All axial
wedges / runners shall be properly milled to dovetail shape so that they pass through the designed
spacers freely. Insulation shearing, cutting, milling and punching operations shall be carried out in such
a way, that there is no burr or dimensional variations.
10.0 TANK
The transformer tank shall be of robust construction rectangular in shape and shall be built up
of tested MS sheet.
The internal clearance of tank shall be such that it shall facilitate easy lifting of core with coils
from the tank without dismantling LV bushings.
All joints of tank and fittings shall be oil tight and no bulging should occur during service. The
tank design shall be such that the core and windings can be lifted freely. The tank plate shall
be of such strength that the complete transformers when filled with oil may be lifted bodily by
means of lifting lugs. Inside of tank shall be painted with varnish / hot oil resistant paint.
The four walls of the tank shall be made of two “L” shaped sheets (without joints) fully welded
at the corners from inside and outside of the tank for withstanding a pressure of 0.8 kg/cm2 for
10 minutes.
The tank shall be reinforced by welded angle on all the outside walls on the edge of the tank to
form two equal compartments. Permanent deflection when the tank without oil is subject to a
vacuum of 525 mm of mercury for rectangular tank and 760 mm of mercury for round tank shall
not be more than 5 mm upto 750 mm length and 6 mm upto 1250 mm length. The tank shall
further be capable of withstanding a pressure of 0.8 kg/sq cm (g) and a vacuum of 0.3 kg/sq cm
(g) without any deformation.
78 Manual on Transformers
Only Pressed steel radiators shall be used for cooling. The transformer shall be capable of
giving continuous rated output without exceeding the specified temperature rise. 4 Nos. welded
heavy duty lifting lugs of MS plate 8 mm thick (min) suitably reinforced by vertical supporting
flat welded edgewise below the lug shall be provided on the side wall.
Top cover fixing shall be with galvanised iron bolts and 6 mm Synthetic resin bonded cork sheet
gasket (type RC 70C) conforming to IS 4253 part-II shall be placed between tank and cover. The
bolts outside tank shall have 2 flat washers & one spring washer.
The transformer tank shall be of robust construction corrugated in shape and shall be built
up of CRCA sheets of thickness. Thickness of corrugated CRCA sheet shall be decided by
manufacturer & customer jointly.
The internal clearance of tank shall be such that, it shall facilitate easy lifting of core with coils
from the tank with CCA (core-coil assembly), HV & LV bushings mounted on Top cover.
All joints of tank and fittings shall be oil tight and no bulging should occur during service. The
tank design shall be such that the core and windings can be lifted freely. The tank plate shall
be of such strength that the complete transformers when filled with oil may be lifted bodily by
means of lifting lugs. Inside of tank shall be painted with varnish / hot oil resistant paint.
Corrugated panel shall be used for cooling. The transformer shall be capable of giving continuous
rated output without exceeding the specified temperature rise.
2 Nos. welded heavy duty lifting lugs of MS plate 8 mm thick (min) suitably reinforced shall
be provided.
Top cover fixing shall be with GI (Galvanised Iron) bolts and 6 mm Synthetic resin bonded cork
sheet gasket (type RC 70C) bonded cork gaskets conforming to IS 4253 part-II shall be placed
between tank and cover. The bolts outside tank shall have 2 flat washers & one spring washer.
Tanks with corrugations and without conservator shall be tested for leakage test at a pressure of
0.15kg/cm2 measured at the top of the tank.
In this type of construction, tank is designed to have cover welded to the curb of tank. Space is
provided above the core coil assembly where inert gas cushion system accommodates the oil
expansion under variable pressure. The tank should be of stiff construction, able to withstand
pressure of 2 atmospheres.
10.4 Conservator
The provision of conservator is obligatory for plain Tanks mentioned in clause 10.1 above
Specifications for Three Phase Distribution Transformers (above 100 kVA and upto 33 kV class) 79
i.e., where pressed steel radiators are used for oil circulation. Conservator is not required for
corrugated tanks.
When a conservator is provided, oil gauge and the plain or dehy drating breathing devise shall be
fixed to the conservator, which shall also be provided with a drain plug and a filling hole (M30
normal size thread) with cover. The capacity of a conservator tank shall be designed keeping in
view the total quantity of oil and its contraction and expansion due to temperature variations.
In addition, the cover of main tank shall be provided with an air release plug to enable air
trapped within to be released, unless the conservator is so located as to eliminate the possibility
of air being trapped within the main tank.
The inside diameter of the pipe, connecting the conservator to the main tank, should be within
20 to 50 mm and it should be projected into the conservator so that its end is approximately 20
mm above the bottom of the conservator so as to create a sump forcollection of impurities. The
minimum oil level (corresponding to -5 deg.C.) should be above the sump level.
11.0 TERMINALS
All ratings 11000 17.5 kV porcelain Bushings as per IS 3347 for normally polluted atmosphere, or 3p 1G
air or compound filled cable box suitable for 3core XLPE /PILC aluminium cables.
All ratings 33000 36 kV porcelain Bushings as per IS3347 for normally polluted atmosphere, or 3p 1G
air or compound filled cable box suitable for 3core XLPE /PILC aluminium cables.
160/200 433 4plG air filled cable box suitable for3 l/2 core 135mm2 PVC aluminium cable
250 433 4plG air filled cable box suitable for3 l/2core 400mm2 PVC aluminium cable
315, 400, 500
433 4p2G air filled cable box suitable for3 l/2core 400mm2 PVC aluminium cable
630.800 433 4p4G air filled cable box suitable for3 l/2core 400mm2 PVC aluminium cable
1000,1250 433 4p6G air filled cable box suitable for3 l/2core 400mm2 PVC aluminium cable
1600 433 4p21G air filled cable box suitable for 1 core 1000mm2 PVC aluminium cable
2000, 2500 433 4p28G air filled cable box suitable for 1 core 1000mm2 PVC aluminium cable
3000
Note: (a) Alternatively 433V terminal could be provided with 1.1 kV bushings as per 1S.3347 for normally polluted
atmosphere.
80 Manual on Transformers
(b) Alternatively 433 V terminal could be provided with 1.1 kV bushing suitable for bus duct connections.
(c) Alternatively 433 V terminal could be provided with1.1 kV epoxy bushings in cable box or bus duct.
(d) P & G denote ‘Pole’ and ‘Gland’ respectively.
(e) Epoxy may be used as the filling medium instead of bitumen compound.
(i) The bushings shall conform to the relevant standards specified and shall be outdoor type.
The bushing rods and nuts shall be made of brass material 12 mm diameter for both HT
& LT. The bushings shall be fixed to the transformers on side with straight pockets and in
the same plane or on the top cover. The tests as per IS 2099 / IS 7421 shall be conducted
on the transformer bushings.
(ii) For 0.433/11 kV/33 kV service voltage, 1.1/17.5/36 kV class bushings shall be used.
Bushings of plain sheds as per IS-3347 shall be mounted on the tank/cover. For 1.1 kV
class indoor transformers, 1.1 kV class epoxy busbar bushings /porcelain bushings can be
used. Bushings in HV cable box as per BS2562 may be used for compound filled cable
box or termination in air with boots covering the live terminals.
(iii) Dimensions of the bushings shall conform to the Standards specified.
(iv) A minimum phase to phase clearance of 75 mm for LV (upto 1.1 kV bushings) and 255
mm for HV bushings shall be obtained with the bushings mounted on the transformer.
(v) The bushings shall be fixed on the sides with pockets in the same plane or on the top
cover.
(vi) Brazing of all inter connections, jumpers from winding to bushing shall have cross-section
larger than the winding conductor.
(vii) The design of the cable box internal bushing for LV shall be such as to provide adequate
earth clearance and creepage distance as stipulated in the standards specified. All other
tests as per relevant standards shall be applicable.
(viii) The terminal arrangement shall not require a separate oil chamber not connected to oil in
the main tank.
(ix) HV and LV bushings shall be mounted on top cover in case of corrugated tank.
11.1 Terminal Clearances
The minimum clearance shall be as under:
Voltage Medium Clearance phase to Clearance phase to
phase (mm) terminal earth (mm) terminal
chamber Open Closed chamber Open Closed
433 Air 40 25 40 20
11000 Air 280 165 140 102
*Compound — 60
— 75
33000 Air 351 351 320 222
*Compound — 125 — 100
* Clearances given against compound filled cable box are applicable for same cable box in air if terminals insulated
with boots are used and cable is ofXLPE type.
Specifications for Three Phase Distribution Transformers (above 100 kVA and upto 33 kV class) 81
For outdoor bare bushings the LV and HV bushing stems shall be provided with suitable terminal
connectors so as to connect the jumper without disturbing the bushing stem.
11.2 Terminal Markings
High voltage and low voltage phase windings shall be marked both in the terminal boards inside
the tank and on the outside with capital letter 1U, IV, 1W and low voltage winding for the same
phase marked by corresponding letter 2U, 2V, 2W. The neutral point terminal shall be indicated
by the letter 2N.
11.3 Fittings to be provided
The following fittings shall be provided for transformers with conservator:
(a) Rating and terminal marking plates.
(b) Two earthing terminals (studs and bolts should be properly galvanized and conform to
IS: 1363 and IS: 1367.
(c) Two lifting lugs to lift core assembly.
(d) Two lifting lugs to lift complete transformer
(e) Lifting lugs for tank cover.
(f) Thermometer pocket in accordance with IS: 3580.
(g) Air release plug on the transformer tank to release air trapped inside the tank when filling
oil through conservator.
(h) Conservator tank shall have inter connection pipe projection, 20 mm above bottom of the
conservator so as to create a sump for collection of impurities. It shall have 30 mm dia
drain valve, oil filling hole with cap on the top of the conservator.
(i) Oil level gauge with toughened glass with “minimum” marking.
(j) De-hydrating breather.
(k) One drain cum sampling valve.
(1) One filter valve on the upper side of the tank
(m) Unidirectional flat rollers.
(n) Inspection hole
For sealed transformers with radiators and nitrogen cushion, the following accessories are
recommended:
(a) Oil level guage
(b) Pressure guage
(c) Oil temperature indicator and winding temperature indicator (optional).
(d) One drain cum sampling valve
(c) One filter valve on upper side of tank.
11.4 Fasteners
Bolts or studs shall not be less than 6 mm in diameter except when used for small wiring terminals.
82 Manual on Transformers
Wherever possible, bolts shall be fitted in such a manner that in the event of failure of locking,
resulting in the nuts working loose and falling off, the bolt will remain in position.
All ferrous bolts, nuts and washers placed in outdoor positions shall be treated to prevent
corrosion, by hot dip galvanizing, except high tensile steel bolts and spring washers which shall
be electro-galvanized/ plated. Appropriate precautions shall be taken to prevent electrolytic
action between dissimilar metals.
Each bolt or stud shall project at least one thread but not more than three threads through the
nut, except when otherwise approved for terminal board studs or relay stems. If bolts, nuts are
placed so that they are inaccessible by means of ordinary spanners, special spanners shall be
provided.
1.0 SCOPE
1.1 This section covers technical requirements/parameters for power transformers for volt-
age below 132 kV. This part specification does not purport to include all the necessary provi-
sions of a contract. For general requirements, loss capitalization and tests, reference shall be
made to Section ‘A’, ‘AA’ and ‘BB’ respectively of this Manual.
For 110 kV / 100 kV class transformers reference can be drawn from section F for appropriate
rating of transformer.
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86 Manual on Transformers
HV — Delta
LV — Star
HV — Star or Delta
LV — Star
3.0 TAPPINGS
3.1 OLTC is not recommended for 11 kV and below 5 MVA. For other kV class transformers,
this may be provided for higher ratings, if required. In case of off-circuit tap changer, the
tappings shall be such as to provide for a voltage adjustment on the high voltage of + 3 percent
to - 9 percent in steps of 3 percent, the tappings being located on the high voltage winding. In
case of on-load tap changer, the tappings shall also be on the high voltage winding. A voltage
adjustment of high voltage of + 5 to - 15 percent in 16 equal steps is recommended.
With transformers having OLTC, these tappings may be used to get 10 percent over-voltage
on low voltage ‑side at no-load. When under this condition the high voltage side experiences
Specifications for Power Transformers of Voltage Class below 145 kV 87
Note:
(i) 66 kV Windings should be with graded insulation.
(ii) Some utilities are specifying higher lightning impulse level of 350 kVp for 72.5 kV non-uniform winding.
The minimum clearances in air between live conductive parts and conductive parts to earthed
structure shall be as follows:
12 75 280 140
24 125 330 230
36 170 350 320
52 250 530 480
72.5 325 700 660
145 550 1220 1050
For the purpose of standardization of maximum temperature rises of oil and windings, the fol-
lowing ambient temperatures are assumed:
With the above ambient temperature condition the temperature rises are as given below:
Oil oC Winding oC
50 55
6.0 TERMINALS
• 3.3 kV-3.6 kV porcelain bushings with plain sheds as per IS: 3347.
• 6.6 and 11 kV-17.5 kV porcelain bushings with plain sheds as per IS: 3347.
• 33 kV-36 kV porcelain bushings with plain sheds as per IS: 3347.
• 66 kV-72.5 kV condenser bushings as per section II.
• Transformers shall be fitted either with bushing insulators or cable boxes as required by
the purchaser.
7.0 FITTINGS AND ACCESSORIES
(p) Oil temperature indicator with one electrical contact shall be provided with anti-vibration
mounting.
(q) Winding temperature indicator with two electrical contacts for alarm and trip purposes.
Switching of fans shall be done by winding temperature indicator for all transformers
having ONAF rating. The winding temperature indicator shall be provided with anti-
vibration mounting.
(r) Tank mounted weather-proof marshalling box for housing control equipment and terminal
connectors. Wiring up to marshalling box with PVC SWA PVC copper cables 660/1100
volts grade.
(s) Air cell (7.5 MVA & above)
(t) Rollers-4 Nos.
Sl. Gauge
Rating Type
No. Shorter axis Longer axis
1 Up to 5 MVA Flat, uni-directional As per manufacturer’s practice,
however, not to exceed 1000 mm
2 6.3 MVA Flanged, bi-directional 1435 mm 1435 mm
3 10 MVA and above Flanged, bi-directional 1676 mm 1676 mm
1.1 This section covers technical requirements/parameters for power transformers of 145
kV class. This part specification does not purport to include all the necessary provisions of a
contract. For general requirements, loss capitalization and tests, reference shall be made to
Sections ‘A’, ‘AA’ and ‘BB’ respectively of this Manual.
For 100/110 kV class transformers, reference can be drawn from this section for appropriate
rating of the transformers.
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94 Manual on Transformers
Three-Phase Impedance
Voltage
Power Rating voltage Cooling
ratio
MVA per cent
140 11/138 12.5 ONAN/ONAF or
ONAN/OFAF or
ODAF or
OFWF/ODWF
140 13.8/138 12.5 -do-
250 15.75/138 14.5 ONAN/ONAF or
ONAN/OFAF or
ODAF or
OFWF/ODWF
Vector Group : YNd11/ YNd1/ YNd7 /YNd5 (As per User’s requirement)
(ii) Tappings : Off-circuit taps on HV for HV variation from +2½ to -7½ percent
in 2½ per cent steps or On-load tap changer on HV for HV variation from + 5 per cent
to -10 per cent in 1.25 per cent steps.
(iii) ONAN rating in case of ONAN/ONAF, ONAN/OFAF, cooling shall be 60 per cent of
OFAF rating. OFAF/ODAF = 100 per cent.
(iv) The standardized ratings are for three-phase units only. If single phase units are required
due to transport limitations, then these ratings will be one-third of the three-phase
unit.
Specifications for 145 kV Class Power Transformers 95
The minimum clearances in air between live conductive parts and conductive parts to earthed
structure shall be as follows:
12 75 280 140
(a) ONAN/ONAF 1-100 per cent tank or separately mounted cooling system
consisting of radiators and fans and one standby fan 2-50 per
cent group and 2 standby fans, one in each 50 per cent group
3-50 per cent group with independent pump and fans out of
which one group to act as standby,
(c) OFWF or ODWF 2-100 per cent heat exchangers out of which one is standby.
4.0 TEMPERATURE RISE
For the purpose of standardization of maximum temperature rises of oil and winding the
following ambient temperatures considering the transformer to be operating at extreme tap
position incurring extra copper losses
Cooling medium Air Water
Maximum ambient temperature 50°C 30°C
Maximum daily average ambient temp. 40°C 25°C
Maximum yearly weighted average temp. 32°C –
With the above ambient temperature conditions temperature rises considering the transformer to
be operating at extreme tap position incurring extra copper losses are as given below :
(h) Conservator with oil filling hole, cap and drain valve, aircell (above 7.5 MVA).
(i) Magnetic type oil level gauge with low oil level alarm contacts of 0.5 A, 220 V DC rating.
(j) Silica gel breather with oil seal-2 Nos. of 100 per cent for 140 and 250 MVA ratings.
(k) Pressure relief device.
(1) Valves
(i) Oil valve between each cooler and main tank.
(ii) Drain valve.
(iii) 2 Nos. filter valves, one on top and another at bottom on diagonally opposite corners.
(iv) 2 Nos. sampling valves at top and bottom of main tank.
The sampling valve shall be provided with provision for fixing PVC pipe.
(m) Valve schedule plate for transformers above 31.5 MVA.
(n) Buchholz relay with alarm and trip contacts of 0.5A, 220 V DC rating and one shut-off
valve size 80 mm.
(o) (i) Oil temperature indicator with maximum-pointer and one electrical contact.
(ii) Oil temperature indicator with maximum pointer and two sets of contacts for above
31.5 MVA.
(p) Winding temperature indicator with ‘maximum pointer and 3 sets of contacts for ONAN/
ONAF and 4 sets of contacts for ONAF/OFAF or ODAF and 2 sets of contacts for OFWF/
ODWF.
(q) Repeater dial of winding temperature indicator for remote indication for transformers
above 16 MVA. For transformer above 50 MVA, the remote indication shall be a separate
measuring system.
(r) Rollers.
Gauge
Rating Type Shorter Longer
axis axis
1. Two winding Flanged bi-directional 1676 mm 1676 mm
and auto with locking and bolting
transformers device.
2. Generator Flanged, bi-directional 2 rails with 2 rails with
transformers with locking and bolting 1676mm gauge 1676mm gauge
device.
Alternatively 3 rails with
1676 mm gauge between
adjacent rails. Alternatively
4 rails in two pairs with 1676
mm gauge for each pair and
centre distance between pair
3486 mm.
(A)
Three-phase Voltage Impedance Cooling
power rating ratio voltage
MVA kV percent
50 220/66 12.5 ONAN/OFAF or
ONAN/ODAF
100 220/66 12.5 ONAN/OFAF or
ONAN/ODAF
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102 Manual on Transformers
For the purpose of standardization of maximum temperature rises of oil and winding, the
following ambient temperatures are assumed:
With the above ambient temperature conditions, temperature rises are as given below:
External cooling-medium
Part
Air Water
°C °C
Windings (measured by 55, when the oil circulation is 60, when the oil circulation is
resistance) natural or forced non-directed. natural or forced non directed.
60, when the oil circulation is 65, when the circulation is
forced directed. forced directed.
Top oil 50 55
(measured)
by thermometer)
(a) Two windings and Auto-Transformers. The terminal bushings shall be as per Section II.
(b) Generator Transformer
LV Side : LV bushings shall be mounted on turrets suitable for connection to bus
bars in isolated phase bus ducts.
HV Side : As per Section II.
Specifications for 245 kV Class Power Transformers 105
1 2 3 4 5
1. Two winding and Flanged 1676 mm 1676 mm
auto-transformers bidirectional with
locking and bolting
device.
(o) Oil temperature indicator with maximum-pointer and two sets of contacts.
(p) Winding temperature indicator with maximum pointer and 3 sets of contacts of ONAN/
ONAF and 4 sets of contacts for ONAF/OFAN or ODAF and 2 sets of contacts for OFWF/
ODWF.
(q) Repeater dial of winding temperature indicator for remote indication.
(r) Rollers.
(s) Inspection cover.
(t) Wiring up to marshalling box with PVC copper cables, 660/1100 volts grade.
(u) Tank mounted/floor mounted weather-proof marshalling box for housing control equip-
ment and terminal connections.
(v) On-load tap changing gear with remote control panels as required.
(w) Cooling accessories.
(I) ONAN/OFAF or ODAF Cooling
(i) Requisite number of radiators with shut-off-valves.
(ii) Fans.
(iii) Oil pumps.
(iv) Oil flow indicator with one alarm contact.
(v) For header mounted radiators 2 Nos. valves, one at top header and other at bo tom
header to be used for filtration and oil filling. Bottom valve to be used as drain
valve also.
(vi) Drain-cum-filter valve for cooling system size.
(vii) Air release plug of size 19 mm nominal pipe (3/4in. BSP).
(II) OFAF/ODAF Cooling
(i) OFAF/Coolers with integral fans.
(ii) Oil pumps.
(iii) Oil flow indicator with one alarm contact.
(iv) Brass encased thermometers.
(v) Drain plug and air release devices.
(III) OFWF/ODWF Cooling
(i) Oil / Water heat exchangers
(ii) Oil pumps.
(iii) Oil flow indicator with one alarm contact.
(iv) Water flow indicator with one alarm contact.
(v) Pressure gauges.
(vi) Brass encased thermometers.
(vii) Differential pressure gauge with one alarm contact.
(viii) Reflux valves (Non-return)
(ix) Drain-cum-filter valve for cooling system.
SECTION H
1.1 This section covers technical requirements/parameters for power transformers of 420
kV class but does not purport to include all the necessary provisions of a contract. For general
requirements, loss capitalization and tests reference shall be made to Sections ‘A’, ‘AA’ & ‘BB’
respectively of this Manual.
Note : The ratings of generator transformers for hydro generating sets have not been standardized as the sizes of
these sets depend upon site characteristics.
The purchaser shall specify the type of cooling required.
Other Parameters
(a) Off-circuit tap changer, tapping range + 2.5% to - 7.5% in steps of 2.5 per cent alternatively
(b) On-load tap changer, tapping range + 5% to - 10% in steps of 1.25 per cent
109
110 Manual on Transformers
(iv) Three-phase rating should be understood as three phase bank rating and not necessarily
three-phase unit rating. Wherever transport restrictions impose, single phase ratings equal
to one-third of the three phase bank rating may be specified.
(v) ONAN rating shall be guaranteed at 60 per cent of the OFAF, or ODAF rating. Rating
under ONAF condition shall be about 80 per cent. Two 50% cooling radiator banks shall
be provided. Each bank shall have one stand by fan and one stand by pump.
(vi) Air core reactance of HV winding shall not be less than 20 per cent and knee point voltage
shall not be less than 1.1 pu.
(vii) Short circuit level Transformer shall be suitable for connection to
for 420 kV system the system having the following short circuit
and duration levels and duration: 40,50 and 63 kA for one
second.
(viii) Terminal Bushings
(a) LV Terminals: Oil - sealed / Oil communicating Condenser type bushings mounted on
turrets suitable for connections to busbars in isolated phase busducts which shall have
spacing of 1250 mm for 250 MVA three-phase unit and 1500 mm for each 200 MVA
single-phase unit of a 600 MVA three-phase bank.
(b) HV Terminals-Line End: 420 kV oil filled condenser bushing. No arcing horns shall be
provided. For details refer Section II.
Neutral End: 17.5 kV porcelain bushing. No arcing horns shall be provided.
The purchaser may specify auto-transformer with constant ohmic value of impedance or constant
percentage impedance as given below:
Standard Ratings
Three-Phase HV/ Voltage Ratio Tapping Range Per cent impedance Cooling
IV/LV per cent voltage
MVA HV-IV HV-LV IV-LV
(min)*
+ 10 to-10% ONAN/OFAF
100/100/33.3 400/132/33 12.5 45 30
16 steps of 1.25% ONAN/OFAF
+ 10 to-10% ONAN/ODAF
200/200/66.7 400/132/33 12.5 45 30
16 steps of 1.25% ONAN/OFAF
+ 10 to-10% ONAN/ODAF
250/250/83.3 400/220/33 12.5 60 45
16 steps of 1.25% ONAN/OFAF
+ 10 to-10% ONAN/ODAF
315/315/105 400/220/33 12.5 60 45
16 steps of 1.35% ONAN/OFAF
+ 10 to - 10% ONAN/ODAF
500/500/166.7 400/220/33 12.5 60 45
16 steps of 1.25% ONAN/OFAF
+ 10 to-10%
630/630/210 400/220/33 12.5 60 45 ONAN/ODAF
16 steps of 1.25%
ONAN/ONAF cooling can also be specified for 100,200,260 1nd 315 MVA ratings.
Other Parameters
Notes :
(i) For the purpose of standardization of maximum temperature rises of oil and winding as measured by resistance,
the following ambient temperatures are assumed :
Air Water
Cooling medium ambient temperature 50°C 30°C
Maximum daily average ambient temperature 40°C 25 °C
Maximum yearly weighted average temperature 32°C -
(ii) Maximum yearly weighted temperature is based on ambient temperature cycle and its duration.
(iii) Wherever ambient temperatures are higher than those specified above, the temperature rises, reduced by
corresponding amount, shall be specified.
(iv) Guaranteed temperature rise limits are valid for all the tappings.
(v) The above temperature rises are applicable to transformers required for operation at an altitude notexceeding
1000 metres above sea level.
1.3 Cooling
1.3.1 ONAN/OFAF or ONAN/ODAF Two 50 per cent banks. One number of pump
and one standby pump in each bank. Adequate
number of fans and one standby fan in each 50
per cent bank.
114 Manual on Transformers
1.4 Bushings
1.4.1 The voltage and current ratings, basic insulation level and creepage distances of the
bushings shall be in accordance with the following table:
SI. Voltage rating Current Creepage Basic
No. kV (rms) rating distance insulation
(Amps) (mm) level (kVP)
1. 420 1250 10500 1425
1250
2. 245 2000 6125 1050
3. 145 800 3625 650
4. 52 1250 1300 250
3150
Clearances in air between live parts and to earthed structures for LV terminals of generator
transformers and auto-transformers shall be determined as per spacing given in clause 1.1.1 (viii)
and 1.2.1.4 respectively. The clearances for HV and IV terminals shall be as tabulated below:
Clearances
Highest voltage for equipment kV
(rms) Phase to phase Phase to
earth (mm) (mm)
12 280 140
24 330 230
36 350 320
52 530 480
72.5 700 660
145 1220 1050
145 1430 1270
245 2000 1800
245 2350 2150
420 4000 3500
Specifications for 420 kV Class Power Transformers 115
Air clearances of 3500 mm between phase to earth can be relaxed to the extent of maximum of
200 mm so far as air release pipe emanating from bushing turret is concerned.
220 Volts DC (for OFAF/ODAF and OFWF/ODWF) and four sets of contacts (for
ONAN/OD AF/OFAF).
(t) Remote indication for each winding temperature shall be through a separate
measuring system.
(u) Cover lifting lugs.
(v) Provision for mounting bi-directional flanged rollers with locking and bolting device for
rail gauge specified below:
Type of construction Shorter axis Longer axis
Single-phase Two rails with 1676 mm gauge Two rails with 1676 mm gauge
Three-phase 2/3/4 rail combination according to Two rails with 1676 mm gauge
layout and size of the transformer
(w) Weather proof marshalling box for housing control equipment and terminal
connections.
(x) Wiring up to marshalling box with PVC SWA copper cables of 650/1100 volt grade.
(y) Cooling accessories.
I ONAN/OFAF or ONAN/ODAF cooling
(i) Requisite number of radiators provided with:
- One shut off valve on top (size: 80 mm)
- One shut off valve at bottom (size: 80 mm)
- Air release device on top
- Drain and sampling device at bottom
- Lifting lugs
(ii) Fans
(iii) Oil pumps with shut off valve on both sides (if required for ONAN cooling
pumps can be by-passed using by-pass pipes and valves).
(iv) Expansion joints, one each on top and bottom cooler pipe connections.
(v) Air release device and oil drain plug on oil pipe connections.
II OFAF or ODAF cooling
(i) OFAF coolers with integral fans
(ii) Oil pumps with shut-off valves on both sides.
(iii) Brass encased thermometers.
(iv) Air release devices and oil pipe connections.
(v) Lifting lugs.
III OFWF or ODWF Cooling
(i) Oil/water heat exchangers with segregated oil and water headers
Specifications for 420 kV Class Power Transformers 117
Above mentioned Transformer rating (in Table) shall be decided by the Utility based on generator rating,
power factor & system requirement.
Other Parameters
(i) Connections - HV star neutral effectively earthed, LV delta
(ii) Connections symbol – YNd11 / YNd1/ YNd5/ YNd7(As per User’s requirement)in
3-phase bank.
(iii) Tappings - Full power tappings on HV winding for HV voltage variation.
(iv) Air core reactance of HV winding shall not be less than 20 per cent and knee point voltage
shall not be less than 1.1 pu.
(v) Short circuit level
Transformer shall be suitable for connection to the system having the following short
circuit level:
800 kV - 40 kA or 50 kA (rms) for 1 second as required.
(vi) Terminal bushings
(a) LV Terminals: 36 kV, 12500 Amps. Oil filled condenser type bushings mounted
on turrets, suitable for connections to bus bars in isolated phase bus ducts which
shall have spacing of 1500 mm for each 200 MVA single-phase unit of a 600 MVA
three-phase bank.
121
122 Manual on Transformers
For 260 MVA single-phase unit of a 780 MVA three-phase bank, 1 no. 36 kV,
16000 Amps, rating.
(b) HV Terminals-Line End: 800 kV, 1250/2000/2500 Amps,oil filled condenser
Bushing with test tap. No arcing horns shall be provided. For details refer
Section II.
(c) Neutral End: 36 kV porcelain bushing. No arcing horns shall be provided. (vii)
Temperature rises
(a) Top oil measured by Thermometer - 40°C
(b) Winding rise measured by Resistance method - 45°C
(c) Maximum design ambient temperature - 50°C
(also refer para 1.4 note i)
Total capacity of coolers for each transformer shall be minimum 120% of actual requirements.
1.2.2 Auto - Transformers
Single-phase rating Voltage ratio Tapping range Per cent impedance voltage at Cooling
HV/TV/LV principal tap
MVA kV HV-IV HV-LV IV-LV
333.33/333.33/111.1 765/400/33 ± 5.5% in 22 14.0 60 45 ONAN/ONAF/
√3 √3 steps OFAF or ODAF
Alternatively
ONAN/ONAF1/
ONAF2
Note : Three single-phase units will form a bank of 3-phase. Rating of stabilizing LV winding may be of 1/3rd
reactive rating. However, continuous thermal rating shall be at least 5 MVA Active loading.
Other Parameters
(i) Connections - HV/IV Star auto with neutral effectively earthed LV Delta
(ii) Connection symbol - YNa0d11(3-phase)
(iii) ONAN rating shall be guaranteed at 60 per cent of the OFAF or ODAF rating. Rating
under ONAF condition although not guaranteed shall be about 80 per cent. Alternatively
ONAN/ONAF 1/ONAF2 (60%/ 80%/ 100%) cooling with 2 x 50% or with radiator banks
or 4x33.3% unit coolers can be used.
(iv) For these transformers the temperature rise of the top oil refers to the specified loading
combination for which the total losses are highest. Individual winding temperature rises
shall be considered relative to that specified loading combination which is the most severe
for the particular winding under consideration.
Specifications for 800 kV Class Power Transformers 123
(v) Air core reactance of HV winding shall not be less than 20 per cent and knee point voltage
shall not be less than 1.1 pu.
Transformer shall be suitable for connection to the system having the following short
circuit level:
(vii) Terminals
(b) IV Terminals: 420 kV oil-filled condenser bushings with test taps. No arcing horns
shall be provided.
(c) HV Terminals: 800 kV oil-filled condenser bushing with test tap. No arcing horns
shall be provided.
1.3.1 Impulse and Power Frequency Voltage Test Level for Transformer Windings.
Highest voltage Rated lightning impulse Rated switching impulse Rated power frequency
for equipment withstand voltage withstand voltage short duration withstand
Urn kV (rms) kV (peak) kV (peak) voltage kV (rms)
17.5 (Neutral) 95 — 38
24 125 — 50
52 (LV of Auto 250 — 95
Transformer)
420 1300 1050 —
800 1950 1550 —
124 Manual on Transformers
(i) Insulation of tertiary winding of Auto-transformer should be adequate to withstand the transferred surge
voltage appearing across it due to an impulse striking on HV or IV terminals. Therefore, 33 kV LVwinding shall
be designed for a minimum lightning impulse withstand voltage of 250 kV (peak) andshort duration power
frequency withstand voltage of 95 kV (rms).Surge Absorbers may be adopted between Tertiary winding Terminals
to limit transferred surge value to 250 kVp and is a discretion between purchaser and manufacturer.
(ii) The shunt reactor or capacitors connected to the LV side would required to be frequently switched onand off.
The LV winding should be capable of withstanding the stresses as may be caused by frequentswitching.
(i) For the purpose of standardization of maximum temperature rises of oil and winding as measured by resistance,
the following ambient temperatures are assumed.
Air Water
Cooling medium ambient temperature 50°C 30”C
Maximum daily average ambient temperature 40ºC 25°C
Maximum yearly weighted average temperature 32°C -
(ii) Maximum yearly weighted temperature is based on ambient temperature cycle and its duration.
(iii) Wherever ambient temperature is higher than those specified above, the temperature rises, reduced by
corresponding amount, shall be specified.
(iv) Guaranteed temperature rise limits are valid for all the tapping.
(v) The above temperature rises are applicable to transformers required for operation at an altitude not exceeding
1000 meters above sea level.
1.5 Cooling
1.5.1 ONAN/OFAF or ONAN/ODAF Two 50 percent banks. One number of pump
and one standby pump in each bank. Adequate
number of fans and one standby fan in each 50
per cent bank.
1.5.2 ONAN/ONAF1/ONAF2 Two 50 percent banks or four 33.3% unit coolers.
Adequate number of fans and one standby fan in
each 50 per cent bank or in each 33.3% bank.
1.5.3 OFAF or ODAF Adequate number of coolers with one cooler as
standby.
1.5.4 OFWF or ODWF Two 100 per cent coolers.
Note:-
(i) The transformer shall be filled up with mineral oil, conforming toIS: 335 or IEC 60296.
(ii) Tor auto transformers 100 per cent cooling equipment should be capable of dissipating losses occurring in all
the three windings, at any tap.
Specifications for 800 kV Class Power Transformers 125
1.6 Bushings
1.6.1 The voltage and current ratings, basic insulation level and creepage distances of the
bushings shall be in accordance with the following table:
Voltage rating Current rating Creepage distance Basic impulse Switching impulse
kV (rms) (Amps) (mm) level (kVp) level (kVp)
800 2500 16,000 2100 1550
420 1250 / 2000 10500 1425 1050
52 3150 / 5000 1300 250 --
1.6.2 Partial Disc/large Level Pico-Coulombs :as per IEC 60137.500 at 1.5 p.u.
1.7 Clearances of Line Terminals in Air
Clearances in air between live parts and to earthed structures for LV terminals of generator
transformers and auto - transformers shall be determined as per spacing given in clause 1.1.1
(ix) and 1.2.1 (x) respectively.
The clearances for HV and IV terminals shall be as tabulated below:
Airclearances between phase to earth can be relaxed to the extent of maximum of 200 mm so far
as air release pipe emanating from bushing turret is concerned.
1.8 Fittings and Accessories
(a) Rating and diagram plate.
(b) Two earthing terminals,
(c) Lifting bollards.
(d) Jacking pads.
(e) Haulage lugs.
(h) Conservator with oil- filling hole, cap and drain valve (size: 25 mm )
(i) Magnetic type oil gauge with low oil level alarm contacts (ratings: 0.5 Amp, 220 Volts
DC.) Dial size 250 mm.
(k) Air cell type oil preservation system. Aircell rupture detector may be provided.
• In addition to provision of air cell in conservators for sealing of the oil system against
the atmosphere, an on line insulating oil drying system shall be provided. This on line
insulating oil drying system shall be designed for very slow removal of moisture that may
enter the oil system or generated during cellulose decomposition.
(1) Required number of pressure relief device capable of resealing after release of pressure.
(m) Valves
• Two filter valves (size: 50 mm) on diagonally opposite ends - one at top and other at
bottom preferably with padlocking arrangement on bottom valve.
• Two sampling valves (size: 15 mm) at top and bottom of main tank.
(n) Oil flow indicator with alarm contacts (ratings, 0.5 Amps, 220 Volts D.C.) with each
pump.
(p) Buchholz relay with alarm and trip contacts (Ratings: 1.0 Amp. 220 Volts D.C.) shall
have
• Test cock
• Gas collection box and gas check valve at ground level. Copper tube interconnection
between gas collection box and relay shall also be provided. In transformers, for installation
in areas subject to high seismic forces, i.e., horizontal acceleration of 0.3 g or more at and
above a frequency of 8 Hz pitot type or reed type of gas and oil relay shall be used.
(r) Dial type oil temperature indicator with maximum reading pointer and two sets of contacts
(ratings, 0.5 Amps, 220 Volts D.C).
Specifications for 800 kV Class Power Transformers 127
(s) 1 No. dial type winding temperature indicator for a two winding transformer and one dial
type windings temperature indicator for each winding of a multi winding transformer with
‘maximum reading’ pointer and two sets of contact ratings: 5 Amps, 220 Volts D.C. (for
OFAF/ODAF and OFWF/ODWF) and four sets of contacts (for ONAN/ODAF/OFAF).
(t) Remote indication for each winding temperature shall be through a separate measuring
system.
(v) Provision for mounting bi-directional flanged rollers with locking and bolting device for
rail gauge specified below:
(w) Weather proof marshalling box for housing control equipment and terminal connections.
(x) Wiring up to marshalling box with PVC SWA copper cables of 650/1100 Volt grade.
- Lifting lugs
(ii) Fans
(iii) Oil pumps with shut off valve on both sides (if required for ONAN cooling pumps
can be by-passed using by-pass pipes and valves).
(iv) Expansion joints, one each on top and bottom cooler pipe connections.
(v) Air release device and oil drain plug on oil pipe connections.
(i) Oil/water heat exchangers with segregated oil and water headers
(iii) Water flow indicator with alarm contacts (ratings: 0.5 Amp, 220 Volts DC).
(vi) Differential pressure gauge with alarm contacts, operating when difference between
oil outlet pressure and water inlet pressure is less than 0.2 kg/cm2
1.0 Scope
1.1 This section covers technical requirements/parameters for Shunt Reactors of 420 kV
class but does not purport to include all the necessary provisions of a contract. For general
requirements, loss capitalization and tests, reference shall be made to Sections ‘A’, ‘AA’ & ‘BB’
respectively of this Manual.
1.2 Introduction
The AC power system networks are operated as voltage source networks. One essential
requirement, therefore is that under all operating conditions of load the voltage, profile of entire
network should be maintained nearly flat, regulating the voltage of each bus within narrow band
of permitted tolerance. No special compensation facilities are needed when the Power transfer
is over small distances. With increase in power network and generating station connected to
load centers employing long transmission lines, this requirement becomes difficult to meet. The
need, thus arises to compensate these long transmission lines (generally above 200 km).
Power transmission lines are characterised by their line inductance and shunt capacitance. For
shorter lines their inductive reactance dominates. As a result, when they carry load current,
which normally is inductive in nature, the receiving end voltage reduces in magnitude and hence
shunt reactors are not required for such lines. Long transmission lines present a problem of a
different kind; once energised the line charging becomes a source of reactive power. Under light
load conditions the VAR generation exceeds the VAR consumption which causes excessive
voltage at mid-point. The consumed reactive power is equal to generated power for a certain
transmitted load. This transmitted load is called surge impedance or natural load of the line.
Voltage profile under these conditions becomes flat. Under Heavy load condition, generation of
reactive power in lines reduces while its consumption increases substantially.
In practice, on account of the transient stability considerations, the permissible loading of long
-lines is kept below surge impedance loading and therefore one faces the challenge to restrict
over voltage along the length of the line. This is accomplished by the connection of shunt reactor
at intermediate buses. This solution is satisfactory but, when used, the total transmission capacity
of the line is reduced. Mid-point shunt compensation not only improves the voltage profile but
also enhances the power transfer capacity of a long line. Shunt Reactors are, thus, important
components-for better utilization of existing and new lines since they compensate for large
capacitive currents generated by HV transmission lines over long distances, restricting optimum
system operation under low load conditions.
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132 Manual on Transformers
Capacitive energy is thus balanced with reactive energy and the shunt reactors:
• Maintain grid voltage within limits compatible with the systems insulation level under
normal service conditions. (Lightly loaded condition.)
• Control dynamic over voltage under abnormal conditions (loss of system, interconnections.
resulting from load shedding operations. or from a line-ground fault)
1.5 Reactors may be permanently connected, or switched in and off type, depending upon
voltage variations.
The reactor is connected either directly on the line and or HV bus or connected to a low-voltage
tertiary winding of a large transformer.
Except otherwise specified or implied herein, the Reactors shall comply with latest edition of
International Standard IEC 60076-6.
Based on length of transmission lines & reactive power compensation in India following three
phase ratings of Shunt Reactor have been standardised for 400 kV lines –
1. 50 MVAR
2. 63 MVAR
3. 80 MVAR
4. 125 MVAR
Note: Single Phase Rating option also possible for specific requirement.
1.9.1 Type: Gapped Core or Magnetically Shielded Air Core type Construction
1.9.2 Application & Operation: Shunt Reactors will be connected to the 400kV transmission
system for Reactive Power Compensation and shall be capable of controlling the dynamic over
voltages occurring in the system due to load rejection.
1.9.3 Shunt Reactors shall be capable of operating continuously at a voltage 5% higher than
their rated voltage without exceeding hot spot temperature of 140°C at any part of the reactor.
1.9.4 The Neutral Grounding Reactors(NGR) are required for grounding of the neutral point
Specification for 420kV Class Shunt Reactors & Associated 133
145 kV Class Neutral Grounding Reactors
of Shunt Reactors to limit the secondary arc current & recovery voltage to a minimum value
in case Shunt Reactor is connected in the line termed as “Line Reactor”. The Reactor directly
connected to the bus termed as “Bus Reactor” and shall have its neutral directly earthed without
NGR. In such cases utility may decide to have BIL for Neutral of Shunt Reactor as 95 kVp &
38kVrms with 36 kV Neutral Bushing.
1.9.5 The Reactor shall be capable of withstanding Switching Surge Overvoltage of 2.5 p.u
and temporary overvoltage of the order of 2.3 p.u for few cycles followed by power frequency
overvoltage upto 1.5 p.u.
Notes:
(i) For the purpose of standardization of maximum temperature rises of oil and winding as measured by resistance, the
following ambient temperatures are assumed :
Cooling medium ambient temperature Air at 50°C, Water at 30°C
Maximum daily average ambient temperature Air at 40°C, Water at 25°C
Maximum yearly weighted average temperature Air at 32°C
(ii) Maximum yearly weighted temperature is based on ambient temperature cycle and its duration.
(iii) Wherever ambient temperatures are higher than those specified above, the temperature rises, reduced by
corresponding amount, shall be specified.
(iv) The above temperature rises are applicable to transformer reactors required for operation at an altitude not
exceeding 1000 metres above sea level.
134 Manual on Transformers
1.10 Terminals
Line Terminals: 420 kV oil-filled condenser bushings with test taps. No arcing horns shall be
provided.
Neutral Terminal: 145 kV oil-filled condenser bushings with test taps. No arcing horns shall be
provided.
1.10.1 Technical Parameters Bushings
Notes-
(i) The 1250 amps bushings shall be suitable for draw lead type assembly
(ii) The Dimensions of Bushings are as per Section II.
(iii) In case of GIS termination, bushing to meet the requirements as per IEC 61639.
(a) Highest voltage for equipment kV (rms) Phase to Phase Phase to Earth
420 4000 mm (Min) 3500 mm (Min)
145 NA 1050 mm (Min)
Note - Air clearances of 3500 mm between phases to earth can be relaxed to the extent of maximum of 200 mm so far
as air release pipe emanating from bushing turret is concerned.
1.13 TESTS
(iii) Full wave lightning impulse voltage withstand test at 1300 kVp on line terminals.
(iv) Switching impulse voltage withstand test at 1050 kVp on line terminals.
(a) Temperature rise test as per IEC 60076-2 along with DGA before and after
temperature rise test.
(b) Measurement of acoustic noise level
The following tests are to be conducted on oil samples for the reactor tank assembled for testing.
Acceptance norms for insulating oil after filling into reactor shall be as given below –
Characteristic Permissible limit ( IEC 60422)
Electrical strength 60 kV (min.)
Water content 10 ppm (max.)
Ten Delta at 90oC 0.01 (max.)
Resistivity at 90 C
o
6 x 1012 ohm-cm (min.)
Interfacial tension 0.035 N/m (min.)
(a) Make
(b) Material
(c) Thickness
(d) Pressure Withstand Capability
(e) Vacuum Withstand Capability
16. Marshalling box
(a) Type of Mounting
(b) Degree of Protection
17. Bushing Current Transformer
(a) Line Side
(i) Type or voltage class
(ii) Ratio
(iii) Accuracy class
(iv) Burden (VA)
(vi) Knee point voltage (Volts) (Minimum)
(vii) Maximum resistance of secondary winding (ohms)
(viii) Maximum exciting (mA) current
(b) Neutral Side (Before/ After Neutral formation)
(i) Type or voltage class
(ii) Ratio
(iii) Accuracy class
(iv) Burden (VA)
(vi) Knee point voltage (Volts) (Minimum)
(vii) Maximum resistance of secondary winding (ohms)
(viii) Maximum exciting (mA) current
1.0 Scope
1.1 This section covering specification for Neutral Grounding Reactors, does not purport to
include all the necessary provisions of a contract. For general requirements and tests, reference
shall be made to other Sections ‘A’ and ‘BB’ of the Transformer Manual.
2.0 General
2.1 Unless otherwise modified in this section the earthling transformers shall comply with
latest versions of IEC 60076
2.2 Single phase Neutral Grounding Reactors are connected between neutral point of 400
kV Shunt Reactors and earth, where neutral of Shunt Reactor is designed for 145 kV class
insulation.
140 Manual on Transformers
2.3 In the high voltage transmission system installed with shunt reactor and when single
pole reclosing is envisaged, a small inductor called neutral grounding reactor is required to be
put between neutral of shunt reactor and earth to compensate the capacitive current during single
line to earth fault.
2.4 Thus NGR is required to carry high current for a very short time.
2.5 In a shunt reactor maximum permissible unbalance current among different phases is
2%, which implies that for 125 MVAR shunt reactor current of 3.5Amp may flow through
continuously.
2.6 Based on above consideration NGR is designed for continuous current of 10 Amp & 60
Amp for 10 seconds (time during which the fault would be definitely cleared).
2.7 NGR consists of air core coil of suitable impedance (as specified in the contract based
on system requirement) immersed in oil filled tank. The Line terminal is brought out through
145kV OIP condenser Bushing which is connected to neutral terminal of shunt reactor. Neutral
terminal is brought out through 36 kV porcelain bushing.
2.8 As continuous losses of NGR are negligible, reactor tank surface is adequate for
dissipation of these losses & therefore no cooling equipment is required.
(h) Rated Impedance at rated Short time current 400 to 2500 ohm (actual value to be defined by
Customer)
(j ) Max Temperature rises over 50°C ambient Winding measured by resistance : 50°C
Top Oil measured by Thermometer: 45°C
(l) Line Terminal 145 kV oil-filled condenser bushings with test taps. No
arcing horns shall be provided
3.5 Tests
1.0 Scope
1.1 This section covers technical requirements/parameters for Shunt Reactors of 800 kV
class but does not purport to include all the necessary provisions of a contract. For general
requirements, loss capitalisation and tests, reference shall be made to Sections ‘A’, ‘AA’ & ‘BB’
respectively of this Manual.
1.2 Refer clause no. 1.2 ,1.3, 1.4, 1.5, 1.6, 1.7 of Section J “Specifications for 420 kV Class
Shunt Reactors” for general information , functions & application.
Based on length of transmission lines & reactive power compensation in India ,following single
phase ratings of Shunt Reactor have been standardised for 800kV lines –
1. 80 MVAR - 765kV
2. 110 MVAR - 765kV
1.4 Major Technical Parameters
1.4.1 Type: Gapped Core or Magnetically Shielded Air Core type Construction
1.4.2 Application & Operation: Shunt Reactors will be connected to the 800 kV transmission
system for Reactive Power Compensation and shall be capable of controlling the dynamic over
voltage occurring in the system due to load rejection.
1.4.3 Shunt Reactors shall be capable of operating continuously at a voltage 5% higher than
their rated voltage and thermal and cooling system shall be designed accordingly.
1.4.4 The Neutral Grounding Reactors are required for grounding of the neutral point of Shunt
Reactors to limit the secondary arc current & recovery voltage to a minimum value in case
Reactor is connected in the line termed as “Line Reactor”. The Reactor directly connected to the
bus termed as “Bus Reactor” and its neutral is directly earthed.
1.4.5 The Reactor shall be capable of withstanding Switching Surge Overvoltage of 1.9
p.u and temporary overvoltage of the order of 1.4 p.u for about 10 cycles followed by power
frequency overvoltage upto 1.8 p.u.
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148 Manual on Transformers
1.4.6
(n) Maximum Partial Discharge level 500 pico coulomb at 1.5 pu (as per IEC 60076-3)
(o) Temperature Rises over an ambient temp. of 50 Deg.
Cent. And at 800/√3kV
Temperature rise of top oil measured by thermometer 400C
Temperature rise of winding measured by resistance 450C
The above temperature rises are applicable to reactors required for operation at an altitude not exceeding 1000
metres above sea level.
1.5 Terminals
Neutral Terminal: 145 kV oil-filled condenser bushings with test taps. No arcing horns shall be
provided.
1.8 TESTS
1.8.1 Routine Tests
(i) Isolation test between Core-End Frame, End-frame-tank and Core-Tank by 2.5kV AC for
one minute.
(j) Dielectric Test
(i) eparate source voltage withstand test at 230 kV AC for one minute.
(ii) Induced over voltage withstand test with P.D. indication at 785 kV AC (1.7pu/√3)
for 30 seconds and at 693kV AC (1.5pu/√3) for one hour.
Note: Large value of reactive compensation is required during induced over voltage test on reactors. Considering the
test plant limitations level of 1.7pu can be omitted for larger ratings of Shunt Reactors as per the agreement
between the manufacturer and customer. This is permitted by IEC.
(iii) Full wave lightning impulse voltage withstand test at 1950 kVp on line terminals.
(iv) Switching impulse voltage withstand test at 1550 kVp on line terminals.
(a) Temperature rise test as per IEC 60076-2 & DGA before and after temperature rise test.
(b) Measurement of acoustic noise level at 800/√3kV
(a) Full wave lightning impulse voltage withstand test at 550 kVp on neutral terminal.
(b) Magnetization curve test/ knee point voltage measurement.
(c) Measurement of Harmonic content of current
The following tests are to be conducted on oil samples for the reactor tank assembled for testing.
Acceptance norms for insulating oil after filling into reactor shall be as given below –
1.0 Scope
This section covering specification for Neutral Grounding Reactors, does not purport to include
all the necessary provisions of a contract. For general requirements and tests, reference shall be
made to other Sections ‘A’ and ‘BB’ of the Transformer Manual.
2.0 General
2.1 Unless otherwise modified in this section the Neutral Grounding Reactors shall comply
with latest versions of IEC 60076
2.2 Single phase Neutral Grounding Reactors are connected between neutral point of 800
kV Shunt Reactors and earth, where neutral of Shunt Reactor is designed for 145 kV class
insulation.
2.3 In the high voltage transmission system installed with shunt reactor and when single
pole reclosing is envisaged, a small inductor called neutral grounding reactor is required to be
put between neutral of shunt reactor and earth to compensate the capacitive current during
single line to earth fault.
2.4 Thus NGR is required to carry high current for a very short time.
Phase to Earth
(a) 145 1050
(b) 36 230
3.6 Tests
16. Whether similar equipment are type tested & are in successful operation for at least two
years (If yes, furnish type test reports)
17. Overall general arrangement drawing of Neutral Grounding Reactor with all accessories
to be enclosed
18. Bushing Current Transformer
(a) Line Side
(i) Type or voltage class
(ii) Ratio
(iii) Accuracy class
(iv) Burden (VA)
(v) Accuracy limit factor
(vi) Knee point voltage (Volts) (Minimum)
(vii) Maximum resistance of secondary winding (ohms)
(viii) Maximum exciting (mA) current
(b) Neutral Side
(i) Type or voltage class
(ii) Ratio
(iii) Accuracy class
(iv) Burden (VA)
(v) Accuracy limit factor
(vi) Knee point voltage (Volts) (Minimum)
(vii) Maximum resistance of secondary winding (ohms)
(viii) Maximum exciting (mA) current
SECTION L
1.0 SCOPE
1.1 This section covering specification for earthing transformers, does not purport to include
all the necessary provisions of a contract. For general requirements,loss capitalization and tests,
reference shall be made to Sections ‘A’, ‘AA’ and ‘BB’ of the Transformer Manual.
2.0 GENERAL
2.1 Unless otherwise modified in this section the earthling transformers shall comply with
latest versions of IS 5553 (Part 6) and IS 2026.
2.2 Three phase earthing transformers provide an artificial neutral and are used for the
following purposes :
(e) Earthing transformers with zigzag (inter-star) connected winding can have a star connected
secondary winding to provide an auxiliary supply.
2.3 Construction of earthing transformer is similar to conventional oil filled transformer.
Usually cooling specified is ONAN type.
Earthing transformers are usually connected either in zigzag (inter-star) or star-delta. For star-
delta transformer the secondary delta winding shall always be connected in closed delta. The
neutral of star connected main winding is earthed. Earthing transformer which consists of a
single winding connected in inter-star may also be provided with, an auxiliary (secondary)
winding. This secondary winding when provided shall be connected in star.
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158 Manual on Transformers
For star-delta connected earthing transformer the delta connected winding may be of the
open type in order to permit the insertion of a resistor or reactor to adjust the zero sequence
impedance.
3.2 Also connecting the resistor/reactors at the neutral end would be preferable.
4.1 For zigzag connected earthing transformer having auxiliary winding if tappings are
required for voltage variation, it shall be provided on zigzag connected main winding. Equal and
uniform number of tappings shall be provided on both zig and zag windings of main windings.
Fig. 1 Interconnected star (zigzag) neutral earthing transformer
4.2 Tap changing shall be carried out by means of an off circuit externally operated self-
positioning switch (when the transformer is in de-energised condition. Position No. 1 shall
correspond to maximum plus tappings. Provisions shall be made for locking the tap changing
switch handle in position.
The insulation level for the line terminals of an earthing transformer shall correspond to those
specified for transformers as per IS: 2026 (Part 3).
6.1 Losses
6.1.1 Only no-load losses should be specified for earthing transformer not provided with
additional auxiliary windings. The tolerance on specified no. load losses will be subject to limits
specified in IS: 2026.
6.1.2 Both no-load and load losses will be specified for earthing transformers provided with
windings’ suitable for supplying auxiliary loads. The load losses specified should be based on the
rating of the auxiliary winding. These losses are also subject to tolerance in accordance with IS :
2026.
6.2 Impedance
6.2.1 Zero sequence impedance of each earthing transformer shall be specified in ohms per
phase and this impedance will be subject to a tolerance of +20%. -0%.
6.2.2 When earthing transformers are provided with auxiliary winding impedance between the
auxiliary winding and the main inter-star (zigzag) winding must be specified and this impedance
shall be subject to tolerance as per IS : 2026.
However, if any difficulty arises to achieve both the specified zero sequence impedance of main
winding and the percentage impedance between the main winding and auxiliary winding, in
such cases either external resistors/reactors may be provided on main windings to adjust the zero
sequence impedance or current limiting resistors/reactors may be provided on auxiliary side to
limit the fault current on auxiliary side to the specified value.
7.0 CONTINUOUS AND SHORT TIME CURRENT RATING
Continuous neutral current is specified either in the case where phase unbalance of the system
exists or when the earthing transformer is to be designed for connection of single phase loads
between line and the neutral.
160 Manual on Transformers
The current flowing through the line terminals continuously when a rated power of a secondary
winding is specified.
Note : The earthing transformer shall carry the specified neutral or rated continuous current and comply as regards
the temperature rise with appropriate requirements of IS : 2026 when it is energised at rated voltage and frequency
The earthing transformer shall carry the specified neutral fault current for the specified duration
without exceeding the winding temperature of 250°C for copper and a temperature of 200°C
for aluminium.
When an earthing transformer is designed for the neutral point to be connected to a current
limiting impedance in the connection to earth, it should also be capable of withstanding, for
a period of 5 seconds, the maximum earth fault current that can flow without the additional
impedance in circuit. This safe guard is necessary should, for instance, the bushing of an earth
resistor flash over.
When earthing transformer are operated without external resistor, the rated short time current
and zero sequence impedance shall have the following relationship :
3. Vph
Ish =
Zo
7.3.1 The earthing transformers shall be capable of withstanding the mechanical and thermal
stresses caused by the rated short time current flowing for the specified duration.
The thermal ability can be demonstrated by calculation using the following formula as per clause
9.1 of IS 2026 (Part 5)
θ1 = θ0 + a J2t x 103 °C
where
Q1 is the highest average temperature attained by the winding due to short time current
maintained over the specified duration and shall not exceed 250°C for copper winding and
200°C for aluminium winding.
Specifications for Earthing Transformers 161
θ2 is the maximum permissible average winding temperature, 250°C for copper and 200°C for
aluminium.
7.3.1.1 Where earthing transformers are used with external resistor/reactors to limit the earth
fault current, the earthing transformer should also be able to withstand dynamically and thermally
the maximum earth fault current without external resister/reactors for a period of 5 seconds.
7.3.1.2 For earthing transformers without secondary winding θ0 shall be taken as the sum of the
maximum ambient temperature and manufacturers guaranteed average oil temperature rise of
the earthing transformer under normal operating conditions.
7.3.2 For earthing transformer with loaded secondary windings θ0 shall be the sum of the
appropriate maximum ambient temperature and the relevant temperature is specified inIS : 2026
measures by change in resistance.
Table 1
7.3.3 Ability of earthing transformer to withstand mechanical stresses due to the rated short time
current flowing in the windings under fault conditions shall be determined by tests described as
per clause 8.6 of IS 5553 (part 6).
8.0 TESTS
Fig. 3 Vector and voltage relationship or a 33/0.435 kV ZNynl connected earthing transformer For single phase
application, the ratio IR-IN/2R-2Y will be :
Specifications for Earthing Transformers 163
11 kV x 2/0435 x2
√3 = 33 /3 x 2 /0.435 / 3 x 2
= 33/√3/ 0.435 kV
= 43.799
i.e., for a zigzag connected earthing transformer to get actual design ratio with single phase ap-
plication, the ratio measurement shall be made by applying line to neutral voltage (per phase) on
inter-star connected main winding and measuring the induced line to line voltage on correspond-
ing star connected secondary windings or vice versa.
Note : For ratio measurement with 3 phase application equal and balanced supply (w.r. to voltage and phase differ-
ence) shall be applied, otherwise ratio error will be high.
SECTION M
1.0 SCOPE
This section covers specifications for transformers having application to be used along with the
Furnaces. However, this does not purport to include all the necessary provisions of a contract.
For general requirements and tests, reference shall be made to other Sections ‘A’ and ‘BB’ of
the transformer manual.
2.0 GENERAL
Standards IS 2026 and IS 12977 to be followed for furnace transformers. Following are the
major application for the furnace transformers.
1. Arc Furnace Transformers which includes submergedarc furnace, Electric arc furnace
and Ladle refining arc furnace transformers.
Arc Furnace transformers are withlow secondary voltageswith very high secondary currentsand
areused for various process applications.Whereas Induction furnace transformers are having
medium & lowsecondary voltages.
Arc furnace transformers based on the process optimization requirements have possibilities to
connect in Star and Delta configuration onprimary winding in order to get additional range of
secondary voltages. Star and Delta change overs is done using either external bushings or with
the help of star delta change over switch.
167
168 Specifications for Furnace Transformers
Secondary windings of Arc furnace transformers are having open delta construction. Closing to
Delta configuration is done within the furnace for such transformers.
In order to provide stability, higher rating Arc Furnace Transformers is often provided with
series reactor. Such reactors may be provided as in built or can be of separate unit.One of the
major purpose of providing the series reactor is also because of fast changing of impedance of
the molten bath in the crucible where the metal is both in solid-liquid state.
Fig. 1 Typical HVwinding connection of Arc Furnace Fig.2 Typical winding connections of Arc Furnace
Transformer having Star Delta Change over Transformer with separate Auto Transformer for tappings.
mechanism
Converter & inverter circuits are connected at the secondaryterminals of Induction furnace
transformers as the furnace panel needs to change the frequency of the molten metal bath
depending upon flux penetration and magnetic coupling required. Induction furnace Transformers
are mainly three winding transformers with secondary windings connected in Star and Delta or
in Star configuration. The number of secondary outputs will also depend on the number of
phases or pulse required in the melting system for more optimal power utilization and reduction
in system harmonics to a large extent.
Phase shifting is also provided for induction furnace transformers for larger furnacesto get
pulses of required numbers.
Depending upon the process and designrequirement either of the following tapping scheme is
adopted.
4.1 Direct Regulation. Tappings are provided on the main winding.
This is a variable flux voltage variation (VFVV) arrangement. This arrangement which consists
of taps at end of primary winding is used for low rating furnace transformers. The cost of OLTC
is minimum due to lower voltage and current values (the primary winding, may be of the order
Specifications for Furnace Transformers 169
of 33 or 66 kV). In this arrangement the step voltage is variable throughout the range of voltage
regulation.
This arrangement is used mainly for larger furnace applications. In this arrangement separate
auto transformer is used for voltage regulation.This arrangement gives linear or equal steps
secondary voltage variation with tapping positions. The auto transformer and main transformer
may be housed either in common tank or in separate tanks.
For single phase arc furnace transformers, auto transformers are mounted within the same tank
of main transformer. Practice of providing separate 3 phase auto transformer for a bank of
3 single phase arc furnace transformers is also seen. This configuration is preferred beyond
12MVA requirement mostly to reduce the copper content of the external secondary bus bars of
the furnace system beyond the transformer till the electrodes. These transformers calls for very
high material content and hence it is heavy. Logistics always remains a question and moreover
these transformers are mounted at a height of 14 to 18 meters platform from the ground zero
level. To make the transformers lighter to handle such transformers are manufactured in single
phase units rather than 3 phase unit.
Such arrangement is used for medium and large rating furnace transformers to avoid constraints
related to OLTC current Rating. In this arrangement it is possible to get voltage variation in
170 Specifications for Furnace Transformers
equal steps throughout the full range of regulation. Main and Booster transformers are located in
the same tank, to minimize the length of connections between the secondary windings for both
the transformers in such arrangement. Since the Booster transformer is only for regulation, its
rating is much smaller than the main transformer rating.
Centre to centre distances and window heights of Booster and Main transformer are generally
kept same to facilitate connections between their secondary windings. In this arrangement
Secondary current of Main and Booster transformers are equal; the two winding sets are often
connected by their leads in a figure of eight which is known as the “eight-eight arrangement”,
thus avoiding extra connections between them.
Fig. 5. Typical Schematic for Regulation Fig. 6. Eight – Eight Arrangement for LV
with Auxiliary Booster Transformer. connection of Auxiliary Booster Transformer.
Since frequent tap changing is required for the process applications, Arc Furnace Transformers
are mainly provided with On Load Tap Changer.Since the number of tap changing per day of
continuous operation can go upto 250 operations a day, it is preferred to use Vacuum type OLTC
for this purpose. It is also a practice to use oil online filtration device to maintain oil quality in
the diverter chamber.
Induction Furnace Transformers are mainly provided with Off Circuit Tap Changers in case
the system voltage is stable. In case of unstable system voltage oil type OLTC is required
in the primary where there is no phase shifting done in the HV winding. In case phase
shifting is required to have higher pulse system then either LV phase shifting can be done
with OCTC or OLTC in primary winding. In case phase shifting is done in HV then it is
advised not to use OCTC or OLTC in the HV winding as the phase angle will get distorted
with change in tapping position with respect to nominal tap at which the phase difference
angle has been defined.
Insulation level for the line terminals of shall correspond to as specified in IS 2026 (Part 3).
Specifications for Furnace Transformers 171
In case of specific requirement of auto transformer the impedance of the auto transformer needs
to be kept little higher with sufficient hoop resistance to withstand short circuit current flowing
through it. Losses of the auto transformer need to be little higher. On addition of both these
attributes the auto transformer will have higher withstand-ability of high inrush current. This
will save the transformer from failing during switching operationof furnace system. There need
not be too much reduction in losses of the transformer that will unnecessarily give rise to cost
of transformer as the furnace system has higher losses compared to the transformer only in
the secondary bus bar path that carries power from the transformer secondary to the electrode
system. Standardization of losses might not work out feasible as KVA rating, secondary voltage
and current is always varying from rating to rating and application to application.
7.0 RATINGS
The MVA, LV voltage range and current are major factors in case the furnace is operating
in fixed pitch mode or variable pitch mode of the electrodes. The thermal delta (the physical
triangle formed in the molten bath) will decide the power density required to melt the charge.
However, manufacturer of induction furnace based on adopted converter& invertor circuits and
majorly the coil voltage required at the furnace crucible decides secondary voltage rating for
Induction furnace transformers.
8.0 TEMPERATURE RISE
For the purpose of standardization of maximum taemperature of oil and winding, the following
ambient temperatures are assumed.
Cooling Medium Air Water
Maximum Ambient Temeprature 50 30
Maximum Daily average ambient temperature 40 25
Maximum yearly weighted average ambient temperature 32 --
With the above ambient temepratures, temeprature rises are as given below.
Part Air Water
Windings (Measured by Hot Resistance) 55 60
Top Oil (Measured by Thermometer) 50 50
9.0 TESTS
IS 2026 is referred to for testing of Furnace Transformers.
9.1 Routine Tests:
9.1.1 Ratio Measurement Test
172 Specifications for Furnace Transformers
Unless otherwise specified within the contract, following minimum fittings and accessories are
to be provided with transformer.
1.0 SCOPE
This section covers specifications for transformers having application to be used along with
the low voltage rectifier circuits. However, this does not purport to include all the necessary
provisions of a contract. For general requirements and tests, reference shall be made to Sections
‘A’ and ‘BB’of the transformer manual.
2.0 GENERAL
2.1 Standards IS 2026, IEC 61378 and IEC 146 to be followed for rectifier transformers.
Following are the major application of the rectifier transformers.
2.1.1 Electrolytic process for Aluminum, Zinc, Copper etc.
2.1.2 Chemical process of Caustic Soda, Zinc, Copper, Chlorine etc.
2.2 Rectifier Transformers are used with either of the following DC circuits.
2.2.1. Rectifier Bridge connection 6 Pulse or 12 pulse for medium to high DC voltages
2.2.2. Rectifier single-way inter-phase connection for low DC voltage levels & high DC
currents
2.2.3. Thyristor or diode rectifiers
The rectifier transformers have typically low voltages in the range of few hundreds only.
The Rectifier Transformers require wide range of voltage regulation on secondary side and
automatic constant current control. For voltage regulation, it is extremely difficult to have taps
on the secondary winding because of few turns in LV and high current value. The taps are
either provided on the primary winding, or a separate regulating transformer (autotransformer)
is used (feeding the primary of the main transformer) which can be accommodated in the same
tank. The required double-wound or auto-connected regulating transformer can, depending on
transport or site limitations, be built into the same tank as the rectifier transformer, or into a
separate tank.
For large rating rectifier transformers, the field due to high currents causes excessive stray
losses in structural parts made from magnetic steel. Hence, these parts are usually made of non-
magnetic steel.
Due to a large variety of applications, there are several influencing factors to consider:
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178 Manual on Transformers
• Double-tier: HV and LV windings in two levels, and Star and Delta connection to
achieve a 12-pulse reaction.
• Pulse numbers higher than 12: requires additional phase shifting windings.
• LV bushing arrangement: adapted to suit rectifier design and to limit structural heating.
Bushings /risersare typically mounted on the tank side wall.
Rectifier transformers are provided with two or multi windings based on DC circuit adopted. In
case of Bridge configuration, two windings connected either in Star or Delta is adopted. In case
of Configuration with inter phase transformer multi windings with secondary connected in Star
configuration is provided.
In both of the cases, Configuration of primary winding can either be star or delta and decided by
the rectifier manufacturer.
Fig. 1 Typical vector diagram of 12 pulse Scheme with Fig.2 Typical vector diagram of 6 pulse
Inter phase Transformer Bridge configuration.
(a) Windings
HV winding: The HV windings of the rectifier transformer are usually disc type and
are connected in either star or delta or zigzag. These type of connection are used to get
the phase shift between the input and output voltages to increase the no of pulses of the
rectified DC output. More number of pulses of the DC output system reduce the ripples
there by improving the quality of DC output.
LV winding: The secondary voltage of the rectifier transformer is very less and of the
order of a few volts. Thereby, the turns in the secondary winding are also very less. On
the other hand, current carried by these windings is very high. For this reason a special
winding called half & Sections is used. This resembles the disc winding to the extent
that each coil is wound in two disc accommodating the total number of turns. A number
Specifications for Rectifier Transformers 179
of coils of this type are connected in parallel by bus-bars for sharing total current. The
advantage of this coil is that odd number of turns can be accommodated in two discs of
the coil without any loss of space, which cannot be done with the normal disc-winding
technique. This improves the space factor of the winding and insures compactness.
LV winding arrangements: adapted to minimize the winding hotspots and influence of
harmonics.
Interleaving of LV windings
The two groups of coils of both the secondary are axially interleaved to ensure that the
impedance between the two secondary is minimum and the impedance of the secondary
with respect to the primary windings is same so that all the coils of both the secondary
share the current equally. The ends of the bus-bars are then connected in star or delta as
the case may be.
The bus bars are placed in go-no go arrangement in such a manner that the fluxes are
getting cancelled as a result there would be minimum reactance between bus-bars and
stray losses..
Coil disposition
Since the secondary coils carry heavy currents and the coils are connected in parallel by
means of bus-bars, it is essential that the secondary coils are placed outermost for ease
of connection. Consequently, HV coil is placed concentrically over the core, over which
the LV coils are placed. Sometimes an electrostatic shield between coils is provided to
limit transferred surges.
By OLTC/OCTC
In case of OLTC, the voltage variations are being achieved on line by changing OLTC
taps. The OLTC is generally used with Diode Type Rectifier Unit.
The OCTC tap-changers are generally used for the transformer coupled with Thyristor
rectifier. In this case the voltage variations are being achieved by change of firing angle
of the thyristor, which is not economical alway
By Auto transformer
The diode rectifiers have a longer range and a higher number of smaller voltage steps
in the transformer. A multi-coarse-fine on-load tap changer (OLTC) or an OLTC/NLTC
combination is preferred, together with LV-side saturable reactors for the voltage fine-
tuning.
Electrolysis processes require wide regulation ranges, fast and tune voltage
regulation.
The Wide regulation is carried out by a regulating transformer.
The fast & tune regulation is carried out either by a set of saturable reactors.
Aluminium electrolysis Rectiformer requires wide range of secondary voltage variation
from 0% to 100% to start pot line from beginning. The whole range of regulation is
180 Manual on Transformers
split up into smaller ranges with a combination of OLTC (On load tap changer) +
Saturable reactor.
Two or three rectifier systems may need to be paralleled, when the current rating
increases. The paralleling is done with the help of inter phase transformer which
absorbs at any instant the difference between the direct voltages of individual systems
so that there are no circulating current. Since the flux in the magnetic circuit of the
interphase transformer is alternating with 3 times the supply frequency i.e 150Hz, when
two systems are paralleled, the core losses in IPT are high. Hence, the operating flux
density in the interphase transformer is designed to be around 50 to 67% of the value
used for the conventional transformer. The ‘C’ type cores are used in IPT.
Insulation level for the line terminals of shall correspond to as specified in IS 2026 (Part 3).
Unless otherwise specified, Losses and the Impedance of transformer are specified at the principal
tap. Principal tap is having maximum LV voltage with highest MVA. In case of transformer
having application of self Saturable reactor, values and measurement scheme of losses and
percentage impedance shall be agreed between purchaser and supplier.
Losses in inter phase transformer and Saturable reactors, if not measured shall be demonstrated
by calculations.
There are no standard ratings of Rectifier Transformers. The rating is decided based on the
defineda pplications.
Specifications for Rectifier Transformers 181
Rectifier Transformers are subjected to non linear loads having significant harmonic contents
during service conditions. Pattern of such harmonics shall be considered during limiting top oil
and winding rises. OFWF cooling is standardized for rectifier transformers. For the purpose of
standardization of maximum temperature of oil and winding, the following ambient temperatures
are assumed.
With the above ambient temepratures, temeprature rises are as given below.
Part Water
Windings (Measured by Hot Resistance) 60
Top Oil (Measured by Thermometer) 50
8.0 TESTS
Dynamic short circuit test is not conducted for Rectifier transformers. The same is demonstrated using IEC / IEEMA
guidelines and sophisticated software.
Higher time for disconnecting the secondary terminal shorting is expected during hot resistance measurement in
temperature rise test of Rectifier transformers, efforts should be made to minimize this duration.
182 Manual on Transformers
Unless otherwise specified within the contract, following minimum fittings and accessories are
to be provided with transformer.
Differential pressure gauge with alarm contacts, operating when difference between oil
outlet pressure and water inlet pressure is less than 0.2 kg/cm2
Drain and sampling device on cooler pipe connection.
9.21 It is recommended to provide Surge suppressors and RC Elements at the line terminals
of Rectifier Transformer. Location of the same may be decided between purchaser and
manufacturer.
SECTION O
1.0 Scope
This section covers specifications High voltage rectifier transformers (HVR) having application
for supplying power to Electrostatic Precipitator (ESP) used for cleaning the flue gases.
However, this does not purport to include all the necessary provisions of a contract. For general
requirements and tests, reference shall be made to Sections ‘A’ and ‘BB’ of the transformer
manual.
2.0 General
Since several other components are part of the transformer housed in the same tank, generally
Standard IS 2026, where ever applicable, is followed for HVR transformers.
HVR Transformer is used for thyristor controlled HV DC power supply to the high voltage fields
of Electrostatic Precipitator (ESP). An Electrostatic Precipitator (ESP) used in industries and
especially in power plants, is equipment which utilizes an intense electric field for extraction and
removal of suspended particles / dust from flue gases to clean the flue gases before discharging
the same into the atmosphere to avoid pollution.
3.0 Construction
The HVR Transformer is a single phase step up transformer fitted with various components as
HV Rectifier, HF Choke, HV Resistor column, and a linear reactor inside the same tank. The
single phase AC input supply of 415 V ± 10 % is fed to the transformer through a microprocessor
based electronic controller (EC). EC-HVR combined unit provides controlled HVDC supply to
the ESP electrodes. EC controls the input voltage of the HVR in-order to optimize the ESP
operation based on the HVR output current & voltage feedbacks.
The high voltage side output of the transformer is connected to Diode Bridge Rectifier for full
wave rectification to DC output up to 95 kVp and up to 1600 mA. The positive polarity of the
DC output is earthed during operation. The negative polarity of the transformer is taken out
through a bushing. This negative polarity output is connected to the ESP field coils.
The flue gases passing between the electrodes of ESP are subjected to an Intense Electric
Field. Continuous sparks take place across the electrodes during dust extraction from the Flue
gases, which shorts the HV output of the transformer to the Earth. An HVR transformer has
to withstand these momentary short circuits, in the form of sparks throughout its life. A linear
reactor is connected in the input of the transformer to increase the impedance and limit the short
circuit current in the event of short circuit.The supply to transformer is continuously switched
on and off by electronic controller for controlling spark and maximum dust collection.
The high frequency choke is connected to the output to provide high impedance to high frequency
currents. HV Resistor column is provided as potential divider for providing feedback of output
DC voltage to the electronic controller.
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The transformer may be manufactured with a breather or may be made in hermetically sealed
construction without a breather.
The transformer tank is filled with Mineral transformer oil (IS-335) or Silicone transformer fluid
(IEC-60836) having high flash point based on the requirement.
The input voltage supplied to the HVR transformer is controlled through the electronic
controller for the required output voltage and current. Tappings are not required for the HVR
transformers.
HV winding of the HVR transformer is tested for separate source withstand voltage at 10 kV
since the positive polarity of DC output is earthed at site during operation. However, separate
source withstand voltage for LV winding, induced over voltage withstand and Impulse voltage
withstand levels are as specified in IS 2026 (Part 3).
Since the transformer experiences frequent short circuits during operation, the impedance
offered to the short circuit is kept high of the order of 25 to 35 % by providing a linear reactor
in the LV side of the transformer.
The voltage rating of the transformer is standardized with DC peak output voltage of 70 kVP
and 95 kVp. The DC output current rating of the transformer varies from 400 mA to 1600 mA
as per the requirement.
Temperature rises of winding and oil above ambient temperature of 50 °C are as given below:
9.0 Tests
IS 2026 in general is followed for testing of HVR Transformers, where ever applicable.
Specifications for Electrostatic Precipitator Transformers 189
Unless otherwise specified within the contract, following minimum fittings and accessories are
to be provided with transformer.
1.0 Scope
This section covers specifications for transformers used on board rolling stock. However, this
does not purport to include all the necessary provisions of a contract. For general requirements,
loss capitalization and tests, reference shall be made to Sections ‘A’, ‘AA’ and ‘BB’ of the
transformer manual.
2.0 General
IEC-60310 is followed for traction transformers. Traction transformers are deployed to power
the main traction circuit as well as various auxiliaries circuits such as train air conditioning, train
pantry car, locomotive/EMU auxiliaries etc. Traction transformers are used in:
Traction transformers are basically step down transformers – used to step down the overhead
catenary (OHE) voltage levels (typically 25 kV) to traction system levels (around 1000 V).
Traction transformers are generally forced cooled to save the precious equipment space.
Inhibited Mineral oil is generally used for the cooling of the transformers. However other types
of synthetic oils are also gaining popularity owing to high flash points – directly related to fire
safety.
Traction transformers are under slung mounted and should be suitable to withstand the shock/
vibrations experienced during traction service. The transformer base should be rigid enough to
avoid the damages due to the hitting by extraneous objects during service.
Traction transformers are single phase transformers. Both shell type and core type configurations
are used. Windings are generally sandwich coils or concentric coils. The complete core-coil
assembly is finally fitted in horizontal position inside the tank. The core coil assembly needs
adequate strengthening and support - to sustain the shocks and vibrations experienced during
traction service.
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4.0 Tappings
For traction power control, one or more of the windings may be equipped with tappings. Tappings
can be on the HV side or the LV side as per the system configuration.
Insulation level for the primary winding and secondary windings shall be as per IEC-60310 or
as specified by the purchaser.
Losses are normally not specified for traction transformers by the purchaser. For traction
transformer, generally the efficiency is specified at rated load. Losses are generally higher as
compared to the equivalent rating power transformers – in order to pack more power in the
limited space.
7.0 Ratings
Traction transformers usually have several secondary windings e.g. traction, auxiliary, hotel
load etc. The rating of the transformer is specified in kVA which is individually specified for
each winding.
9.0 Tests
IEC 60310 is followed for testing of traction transformers. List of applicable tests is as under:
Fittings and accessories shall as agreed mutually between the manufacturer and purchaser.
However guidance may be taken from other sections of the manual.
SECTION Q
1.1 This section of the specification covers the different types of dry type transformers.
This section does not purport to include all the necessary provisions of a contract. For general
requirements, tests, erection, maintenance and commissioning, reference shall be made to
Sections ‘A’, ‘BB’&‘CC’ of the Manual.
1.2 It is not the intent to specify completely all details of design and construction of the
equipment. However, the equipment shall conform in all respect to high standard of design,
engineering and workmanship and be capable of performing in continuous commercial
operations.
2.0 STANDARDS
2.1 Except where specified otherwise herein, all material, equipment and construction shall
conform to Indian Electricity Act and rules and latest versions of Indian standards specified
below:
2.2 List of Standards
The transformer to be supplied against this specification shall be suitable for satisfactory
continuous operation under the climatic condition prevailing at site and to be specified by the
purchaser as per IS2026/ International Standard as under,
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4.0 TERMINOLOGY
A transformer in which mineral oil or any liquid is not employed either as a cooling or insulating
medium. Cooling will be by natural circulation of air or by forced air cooling. (AN or AN/AF
as per IS11171).
4.2 Dry Type Transformers are classified into following categories depending on the
insulation potting process:
(a) Vacuum Pressure Impregnated (VPI) Transformers have coils impregnated with polyester
varnish/resin under vacuum & pressure. These transformers are generally available upto
1800C (Insulation Class ‘H’). Some manufacturers also use silicon resin for impregnation.
(b) Cast Resin Transformers have coils encapsulated in epoxy resin by molding process.
Depending on the temperature class of resin used these transformers are available upto
1550C (Insulation class ‘F’) or 180°C (Insulation Class ‘H’).
Standard ratings of dry transformers with losses & impedances are recommended in Table 1
Total Loss values given in above table are applicable for thermal classes,B,E & F and have
component of load loss at reference temperature according to clause 17 of IEC 60076-11.
* Reference temperature for load losses = average winding temperature rise as given in column
2 of table 2 plus 30 deg C
Other higher ratings of dry type transformers upto 15 MVA having HV upto 33 kV and LV upto
11 kV are possible depending on the application for which they are required.
6.1.1 Transformer built in accordance with this specification may be operated at its rated kVA
at any voltage within ± 10 percent of the rated voltage at that particular tap.
6.1.2 The transformer shall be capable of delivering rated current at a voltage equal to 105
percent of the rated voltage.
Note : The slight temperature rise increase which would correspond to the 5 percent over voltage
due to high no load loss is disregarded.
6.1.3 A transformer for two or more limits of voltage or frequency or both shall give its rated
kVA under all the rated conditions of voltage or frequency or both; provided an increase in
voltage is not accompanied by decrease in frequency.
(a) Thermal classification of insulation and permissible temperature rises should confirm to
class ‘F or class ‘H’ as per relevant clause of IS 11171.
(b) Impedance voltage and short circuit performance against, thermal and dynamic
requirements arc applicable as per relevant clauses of IS 2026 & IS 11171.
7.1 Core
The core shall be stacked type generally of high grade cold rolled grain oriented silicone steel
lamination having low loss and good grain properties coated with carlite. The stacked lamination
will be bolted or tied with belts firmly to prevent vibration or noise. The complete design of core
must ensure permanency of the core losses with continuous working of transformers. Cruciform
core with Mitred/ step lap joints are used to reduce the core losses and magnetizing current.
7.2 Windings
The low voltage and high voltage windings can be made of Copper, Foil/ insulated rectangular
202 Manual on Transformers
strips. Aluminium foils/conductors can also be used. However, losses recommended in Table 1
Note: The Low Voltage (<600V) windings of cast resin transformer can be with no casting in mold if insulation , pre
impregnated with heat activated epoxy resin, is used.
7.3 Insulating Material
The insulating material shall conform to the thermal class of Insulation specified.
Table-2: Winding Temperature Rise Limits
Rated lightning
Highest voltage for Rated short duration power impulse withstand
equipment Um frequency withstand voltage voltage kV (peak)
kV (rms) kV (rms)
List 1 List 2
< 1.1 3
3.6 10 20 40
7.2 20 40 60
12.0 28 60 75
17.5 38 75 95
24.0 50 95 125
36.0 70 145 170
Choice between List 1 and List 2 as per relevant clause of IS 11171 & IEC 60076 Part 11
The following clearances are to be maintained in air between line to earth for the respective
voltage:
The transformer shall be subjected to all the routine, type and special tests as per IS—11171 and
2026 / IEC 60076 as agreed upon between the purchaser and the manufacturer.
The following tests may be carried out by mutual agreement between the purchaser and the
supplier:
Surface treatment and painting shall be done as per Section A of this Manual.
12.1 Packing
• Dry type transformers with Enclosure need not be packed and can be dispatched only
wrapped with polythene sheet.
Specifications for Dry Type Transformers 205
• Dry Type transformers without enclosures should be wrapped with polythene sheet and
packed in wooden crates.
• The Dry Type transformers should be dispatched fully assembled, unless until transport
restrictions do not permit.
12.2 Transport
To lift the transformer, all four lifting lugs must be loaded uniformly with equal length straps
of suitable length in order to avoid distortion to the top core clamping structure and system of
core and coil supports.
12.3 Storage
Dry transformers must be stored in a dry, well-ventilated room and covered with a plastic sheet.
After a long storage period at extreme low temperatures or after a lengthy period of being de-
energised in very humid surrounding, the transformers must be dried before putting back into
service. Drying can be achieved by warm air heaters or by industrial dehumidifiers.
12.4 Installation
• After packing materials and any other blocking means used during transport are removed,
the transformer should be cleaned and dusted-off, taking special care of the air cooling
ducts between the windings and between the low voltage coils and the magnetic core.
Once in final position ensure that the transformer is secured by blocking the rollers. The
installation location should be well ventilated.
• Suitable proper air circulation should be ensured around the transformer during operation
at all times.
• If the Dry Type transformer is required for outdoor installation, then the same shall be
specified by customer in initial specifications.
• Before the putting in service of the transformer, all electrical connections must be checked
(incl. the tapping link connections). A poor electrical connection willcause unnecessary
heating, resulting in possible damage to the transformer insulation.
Temperature rise of dry type transformers can be conducted as per following methods which is
based on loading type:
This method is appropriate when there are two similar transformers. Two transformers,
one of which is the transformer under test, are connected in parallel, and the inner winding
is excited at the rated voltage of the transformer under test. By means of different voltage
ratios or an injected voltage, therated current is made to flow in the transformer under
test until stabilization of the core and winding temperatures (refer Fig-1 below). The hot
resistance of the winding is measured and compared with cold resistance to calculate
average winding temperature rise.
In this method, Temperature rise is established by combining the short-circuited test (load
loss) and the open circuit test (no-load loss) in two stage. In each stage, hot resistance of
the winding is measured and compared with cold resistance to calculate average winding
temperature rise. The final temperature rise is calculated by adding them together as per
IEC 60076-11.
Out of all the above three methods, the widely followed method is simulated loading method
4. For measurement of ambient temperature, atleast 4 nos. sensors shall be placed at each
side around the transformer at a level approximate half way up to cooling surface, at a
distance of 2 meters from the cooling surface.
5. For direct measurement of winding temperature through WTI, atleast 4 nos. RTD sensors
(Two in center limb & one in each outer phase) shall be placed as close as possible to the
innermost LV winding conductors at the top of the winding and for measurement of core
temperature, 1 no. RTD sensor shall be placed in the centre of top yoke.
6. Hot resistance of all winding (centre phase) shall be measured and their final winding
temperature rise shall be calculated inline with IEC 60076-11.
7. Accuracy of all the instruments used in testing should be equal to or better than 1 oC.
8. In critical Transformers temperature of core, winding, LV terminals/Busbar/Flange &
enclosure shall also be recorded using Laser Gun/Thermo vision camera immediately
after test.
Vol. II
Application, Standard
Fittings and Accessories
SECTION AA
Note:
(i) Actual value can be worked out by the purchaser by considering appropriate values of r, EC, LF and LS.
(ii) For auto transformer, the load losses capitalisation shall consider the losses due to both HV and IV loaded
to their rating with tertiary unloaded unless otherwise required by the purchaser. For other three winding
transformers the loading combinations for capitalisation of losses shall be indicated by purchaser.
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214 Manual on Transformers
As the losses of the shunt reactor cannot be separated in to Iron Loss and Copper Loss, It is
customary to guarantee the Total Losses of the shunt reactor. In such a case it is recommended
that the capitalization formula as applicable for Iron losses of the power transformers shall be
applied to the total losses of the Shunt Reactor.
For distribution transformers, the following illustrates the method for calculating the loading
factors for evaluation of loss capitalization to be specified by the purchaser. The values indicated
are typical values and the utility may adopt values different from those indicated in case the
rates of interest, cost of energy and the number of hours of operation are different from those
indicated in the example below. A life expectancy of less than 25 years is not recommended.
Rate of Expected Number Cost of 1+r (1+r) n (l+r) n-l [{(l+r) n–l} A=loading
Interest in life of hours of energy to /r(l+r) n] factor per
n operation in the utility at kW
per unit
a year UkV level
r of iron loss
H Ec
0.08 25 8400 Ec 1.08 6.848475 5.84848 10.67477619 Rs. 89668iEc
1 1 1 = 0.3
B = A x LLF
Where
A = Loading factor in Rs. per kW of no load loss.
B = Loading factor in Rs. Per kW for load loss.
H = No. of hours, the transformer will remain charged in a year, i.e., no. of hours of
operation (taken as 8400 hrs.).
Ec = Cost of energy to the utility at 11 kV level.
r = Rate of interest per unit (Taken as 8%)
n = Expected life of the transformer (Taken as 25 years)
LLF = Loss load factor (where LLF=0.2 x Load factor + 0.8 x L.F.2)
LF = Load factor (taken as 0.5)
Ec = Cost of energy (in Rupees per unit at 11 kV feeder level).
Note: In case of non-availability of Ec (Energy cost per unit) at 11 kV feeder level, utility should consider the Bulk Rate
Tariff plus 5% as the cost of energy at 11 kV feeder level. Load factor considered for Bfactor is 0.5, higher load
factor may be considered for urban areas.
SECTION BB
Test requirements, procedures and criteria for successful testing of transformers are defined in
national and international standards, i.e. IS 2026 and IEC Publication 60076
This Section describes specific requirements for performing tests specified in IEC Publication
60076, IS 2026 and other standards applicable to distribution, power and regulating transformers.
It is intended for use as a guide and reference for testing of transformers. The chapter covers
purpose, interpretation and explanation of specific conditions pertaining to the testing of
transformer and procedure for correction when ideal test conditions can not be achieved.
When all manufacturing processes have been completed, tests are performed on transformer at
the manufacturer’s works to ensure the following purposes:
(1) To prove that the design meets the specified job requirements and to obtain transformer
characteristics.
(2) To check that the quality requirements have been met and that performance is within the
tolerance guaranteed.
Tests performed for the former purpose are referred to as Type Tests and that for the latter
purpose are referred to as Routine Tests (carried out on every unit manufactured). In addition to
the aforesaid two categories of tests, Special Tests may also be performed to obtain information
useful to the user during operation or maintenance of the transformer.
Transformer is important and vital equipment, it is therefore necessary to ensure its proper
performance throughout its service life. Also during transportation, installation and service
operation, the transformer may be exposed to conditions, which adversely affect its reliability
and useful life. It is therefore necessary to do the field testing to ensure good operating health
of transformers.
3.0 Tests
The general requirements and details of the various categories of tests (Routine Tests, Type Tests
and Special Tests) are in accordance with IEC Publication 60076 (latest edition). The Indian
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218 Manual on Transformers
standard IS: 2026 is under revision and is expected to be revised in accordance with IEC. The
customer specific requirements are referred hereto as Additional Special tests and Mechanical
Tests.
The following tests are generally performed on the transformer which may also form part of the
customer acceptance:
(A) Factory Tests
• Routine Tests
between windings.
23. Magnetic balance test on three-phase transformers
24. Determination of transient voltage transfer characteristics
25. Dissolved gas analysis (DGA) of oil filled in the transformer before and after temperature
rise test
26. Recurrent surge oscillographic (RSO) test
27. Determination of core hot spot temperature
28. Frequency response analysis (FRA) test
29. Measurement of magnetization current at low voltage
30. Functional tests on auxiliary equipments
31. Tests on oil filled in transformer
32. Dew point measurement before dispatch
Mechanical Tests
1. Dew point measurement for large transformer filled with dry air or nitrogen filled
2. Winding resistance measurement
3. Vector group and polarity
4. Voltage ratio test
5. Measurement of magnetizing current
6. Magnetic balance test on three phase transformer
7. Magnetic circuit (Isolation) test
8. Measurement of short circuit impedance at low voltage
9. Insulation resistance measurement
10. Measurement of capacitance and dissipation factor on windings and Bushings of 72.5 kV
class and above.
11. Dissolved gas analysis (DGA) on transformers
12. Tests on oil filled in transformer as per IS 1866 / IEC 60422
13. Frequency response analysis (FRA) test
The dielectric tests (Test Nos. A.7 to A.12) may be routine, type or special tests depending upon
the voltage rating, specific customer requirements and referred standards.
The purpose, interpretation and explanation for specific conditions of the tests are briefly
described as below.
220 Manual on Transformers
The tests and their sequence shall be mutually agreed between the manufacturer and the user.
3.1.1 General
Resistance measurement helps to determine the following:
(a) Calculation of the I2R losses.
(b) Calculation of winding temperature at the end of a temperature rise test.
(c) As a base for assessing possible damage in the field.
3.1.2 Determination of Cold Temperature
The resistance is measured at ambient (cold) temperature and then converted to resistance at 75 0C,
for all practical purpose of comparison with specified design values, previous results and diagnostics.
The cold temperature of the winding shall be determined as accurately as possible when measuring
the cold resistance. The following should be observed.
The temperature of the winding shall be assumed to be the same as the temperature of the
insulating liquid, provided:
(a) The windings have been under insulating liquid with no excitation and with no current in
the winding from three hours to eight hours (depending upon the size of the transformer)
before the cold resistance is measured.
(b) The temperature of the insulating liquid has stabilized, and the difference between top and
bottom temperature does not exceed 5 0C.
3.1.2.2 Transformer windings without insulating liquid
The temperature of the winding shall be recorded as the average of several thermometers or
thermocouples inserted between the coils, with care taken to see that their measuring points are
as nearly as possible in actual contact with the winding conductors. It should not be assumed
that the windings are at the same temperature as the surrounding air.
3.1.3 Resistance Measurement Methods
The resistance of each winding shall be measured by any one of the following methods. If
winding has tapping, then resistance shall be measured on at least principal, maximum and
minimum taps.
3.1.3.1 Voltmeter-Ammeter method
This method should be employed if the rated current of the transformer winding is one ampere
or more. The following steps are performed to conduct this test.
(a) Measurement is made with direct current, and simultaneous readings of current and
Test Requirements for Transformers 221
Bridge methods or high-accuracy digital instrumentation are generally preferred because of their
accuracy and convenience. The current rating of the measuring instrument should not be very
low for large inductive objects. In case of delta connected windings of a large rating transformer,
the resistance meter should have adequate current rating.
For star connected windings with neutral brought out, the resistance shall be measured by two
methods
(a) Charged battery of sufficient capacity or at least 10 A shall be used with the bridge to
avoid errors due to drop in battery voltage during measurements.
(b) To reduce the high inductive effect, it is advisable to use a sufficiently high current to
222 Manual on Transformers
saturate the core. Therefore the measuring instruments shall have high ranges as well as
large deflection.
(c) The polarity of the core magnetization shall be kept same during all resistance readings. A
reversal in magnetization of the core can change the time constant and result in erroneous
readings.
(d) The voltmeter leads shall be independent of the current leads and shall be connected
as closely as possible to the terminals of the winding to be measured. This is to avoid
including in the reading the resistances of current-carrying leads and their contacts and of
extra lengths of leads.
(e) To protect the voltmeter from injury by off-scale deflections, the voltmeter should be
disconnected from the circuit before switching the current on or off. To protect the
personnel from inductive kick, the current should be switched off by a suitably insulated
switch.
(f) Readings shall not be taken until after the current and voltage have reached steady-state
values.
(g) The current used shall not exceed 15% of the rated current of the winding whose resistance
is to be measured. Larger values may cause inaccuracy due to heating of the winding and
thereby changing its temperature and resistance.
3.2 Measurement of Voltage Ratio, Polarity and Check of Voltage Vector Relationship
3.2.1 Ratio Test
3.2.1.1 General
The turn ratio of a transformer is the ratio of the number of turns in the high-voltage winding to
that in the low-voltage winding.
When the transformer has taps, the turn ratio shall be determined for all taps and for the full
winding.
The ratio tests shall be made at rated or lower voltage and the voltage shall be applied to the
winding with higher voltage rating.
In the case of three-phase transformers, when each phase is independent and accessible, single-
phase supply should be used; although, when convenient, three-phase supply may be used.
The tolerances for ratio shall be as specified in IS 2026 Part 1 and IEC 60076-1.
Various types of ratio test methods are possible. Out of those, Ratio Bridge method is most
commonly adopted. In this method, the turn ratio on each tapping between pairs of winding
shall be measured by a direct reading ratio meter. This method gives more accurate results as
Test Requirements for Transformers 223
The modern ratio bridge can also be used to test polarity, phase relation and phase sequence. More
accurate results can be obtained using a ratio bridge that provides phase-angle correction.
Polarity and phase-relation tests are of interest primarily because of their bearing on
paralleling or banking two or more transformers. Phase-relation tests are made to determine
angular displacement and relative phase sequence. Phase-relation or vector group
verification test is performed on a three phase transformer or on a bank of three single-
phase transformers.
The details of Additive and Subtractive polarity are given in IS: 2026-Part 1 and IEC 60076-1.
Any convenient value of alternating voltage shall be applied to the full high-voltage winding and
readings shall be taken of the applied voltage and the voltage between the right-hand adjacent
high-voltage and low-voltage leads.
When the later reading is greater than the former, the polarity is additive.
When the later reading is less than the former (indicating the approximate difference in voltage
between that of the high-voltage and low-voltage windings), the polarity is subtractive.
The phasor diagram of any three-phase transformer that defines the angular displacement and
phase sequence can be verified by connecting the HV and LV leads together to excite the
224 Manual on Transformers
unit at a suitably low three-phase voltage, taking voltage measurements between the various
pairs of leads and then either plotting these values or comparing them for their relative order
of magnitude with the help of the corresponding phasor diagrams, e.g. as shown in Fig. 2
and 3. Typical check measurements are to be taken and their relative magnitudes are then
compared.
Example 1
CONNECT 1U TO 2U
MEASURE 1W-2V, 1W-2W, 1U-2W, 1V-2V,
1V-2W
VOLTAGE RELATION
1W-2V= 1W-2W
1W-2V< 1W-1U
1V-2V<1V-2W
1V-2V <1U-1W
Fig 2 : For HV-Delta / LV-Star Transformer
Example 2
Connect 1U to 2U
MEASURE 1W-2V, 1W-2W, 1U-2W, 1V-2V,
1V-2W
VOLTAGE RELATION
1W-2W = 1V-2W
1W-2V > 1V-2V
1U-N= (1U-2W)+(2W-N)
Yd11
Fig 3 : For HV-Star / LV-Delta Transformer
3.3.1 General
No-load (excitation) losses are those losses that are incident to the excitation of the transformer.
No-load (excitation) losses include core loss, dielectric loss, conductor loss in the winding due
to excitation current, and conductor loss due to circulating current in parallel windings. These
losses change with the excitation voltage.
Excitation current (no-load current) is the current that flows in any winding used to excite the
transformer when all other windings are open-circuited. It is generally expressed in percent of
the rated current of the winding in which it is measured.
Test Requirements for Transformers 225
The purpose of the no-load loss test is to measure no-load losses at a specified excitation voltage
and a specified frequency. The no-load loss determination shall be based on a sine-wave voltage.
The average-voltage voltmeter method is the most accurate method for correcting the measured
no-load losses to a sine-wave basis and is recommended. This method employs two-parallel-
connected voltmeters; one is an average-responding (possibly rms calibrated) voltmeter; the
other is a true rms-responding voltmeter. The readings of both voltmeters are employed to
correct the no-load losses to a sine-wave basis, using equation given in paragraph for waveform
correction of no-load losses.
Test voltage will be 90%, 100%, 110%, guaranteed at 100% and for reference purpose at 90 and
110%
Tests for the no-load loss determination of a single-phase transformer are carried out using
the schemes depicted in Figs. 4 & 5. Fig. 4 shows the necessary equipment and connections
for the case where instrument transformers are not required. When instrument transformers
are required, which is the general case, the equipment and connections shown in Fig. 5 apply.
If necessary, correction for losses in connected measuring instruments may be made by
disconnecting the transformer under test and noting the wattmeter reading at the specified test
circuit voltage. These losses represent the losses of the connected instruments (and voltage
transformer, if used). They may be subtracted from the earlier wattmeter reading to obtain the
no-load loss of the transformer under test.
Tests for the no-load loss determination of a three-phase transformer shall be carried out by
using the three wattmeter method. Figure 6 is schematic representation of the equipment and
connections necessary for conducting no-load loss measurements of a three-phase transformer
when instrument transformers are necessary.
Nowadays, digital power analysers or power meters are available for determination of losses
(both no-load and load). Selection of these power analysers shall be based on the desired
accuracy at low power factors
The operating and performance characteristics of a transformer are based upon rated voltage
and rated frequency, unless otherwise specified. Therefore, the no-load loss test is conducted
with rated voltage impressed across the transformer terminals, using a voltage source at
a frequency equal to the rated frequency of the transformer under test, unless otherwise
specified.
The most difficult cases, both with regard to voltage wave shape distortion and power
measurements usually arise when testing large single-phase transformers.
Test Requirements for Transformers 227
At low power factors, judicious selection of measurement method and test system components
is essential for accurate and repeatable test results. The phase-angle errors in the instrument
transformers, measuring instruments, bridge networks and accessories affect the loss test
results. Procedures for correcting the losses for meeting phase-angle errors are described in IEC
Publication 60076-8
The eddy current component of the no-load loss varies with the square of the rms value of
excitation voltage and is substantially independent of the voltage waveform. When the test
voltage is held at the specified value as read on the average-voltage voltmeter, the actual rms
value of the test voltage may not be equal to the specified value. The no-load losses of the
transformer corrected to a sine-wave basis shall be determined from the measured value by
means of the following equation:
The above equation is valid only for voltage with moderate waveform distortion. If waveform
distortion in the test voltage causes the magnitude of the correction to be greater than 5%, then
the test voltage waveform must be improved for an adequate determination of the no-load losses
and currents. For large single phase transformers, it is expected that the difference between rms
voltages and average voltage will be greater than 5%, which should be accepted in view of test
voltage source limitation.
The new generation of power analysers are equipped with software for automatic calculation of
corrected losses based on the input data of voltages and power.
The excitation (no-load) current of a transformer is the current that maintains the rated magnetic
flux excitation in the core of the transformer. The excitation current is usually expressed in per
unit or in percent of the rated line current of the winding in which it is measured. Measurement
of excitation current is usually carried out in conjunction with the tests for no-load losses. RMS
current is recorded simultaneously during the test for no-load losses using the average-voltage
voltmeter method. This value is used in calculating the per unit or percent excitation current.
228 Manual on Transformers
For a three-phase transformer, the excitation current is calculated by taking the average of the
magnitude of the three line currents. The tolerance for no-load current should be as per IS 2026
Part -1
3.4.1 General
The load losses of a transformer are those losses incident to a specified load carried by the
transformer. Load losses include I2R loss in the windings due to load current and stray losses
due to eddy currents induced by leakage flux in the windings, core clamps, magnetic shield,
tank walls and other conducting parts. Stray losses may also be caused by circulating currents in
parallel windings or strands. Load losses are measured by applying a short circuit across either
the high voltage winding or the low voltage winding and applying sufficient voltage across the
other winding to cause a specified current to flow in the windings. The power loss within the
transformer under these conditions equals the load losses of the transformer at the temperature
of test for the specified load current.
The impedance voltage of a transformer between a pair of windings is the voltage required to
circulate rated current through one of two specified windings when the other winding is short
circuited, with the windings connected as for rated voltage operation. Impedance voltage is
usually expressed in per unit or percent of the rated voltage of the winding across which the
voltage is applied and measured.
The impedance voltage is measured during the load loss test by measuring the voltage required
to circulate test current in the windings. The measured voltage is the impedance voltage at
the test frequency and the power loss dissipated within the transformer is equal to the load
losses at the temperature of test and at rated load. The impedance voltage is corrected to the
rated frequency and the load losses are corrected to a reference temperature using the formulas
specified in this standard.
The magnitude of the load losses and the impedance voltage will vary depending on the
positions of tap changers, if any in various windings. These changes are due to the changes in
the magnitudes of load currents and associated leakage-flux linkages as well as being due to
changes in stray flux and accompanying stray losses.
3.4.2.1 Temperature
Load losses are also a function of temperature. The I2R component of the load losses
increases with temperature, while the stray loss component decreases with temperature.
Procedures for correcting the load losses to the standard reference temperature are described
in 3.5.5.
Test Requirements for Transformers 229
At low power factors, judicious selection of measurement method and test system components
is essential for accurate and repeatable test results. The phase-angle errors in the instrument
transformers, measuring instruments, bridge networks and accessories affect the load loss test
results. Procedures for correcting the load losses for meeting phase-angle errors are described
in IEC Publication 60076-8
3.4.3 Methods for Measuring Load Losses and Impedance Voltage
Test Conditions
To determine the load losses and impedance voltage with sufficient accuracy, the following
conditions shall be met.
1. The temperature of the insulating liquid has stabilized and the difference between top and
bottom oil temperatures does not exceed 5 0C.
2. The temperature of the windings shall be taken immediately either before or after the
load losses and impedance voltage test in a manner similar to that described in 3.1.1. The
average shall be taken as the winding temperature for computation of losses.
3. The conductors used to short-circuit the low voltage, high current winding of a transformer
shall have a cross-sectional area greater than the corresponding transformer winding leads.
4. The test current shall be at least 50 % of the rated current of the winding across which the
voltage is applied.
5. The measurement of losses shall be done at the earliest after excitation of the transformer
to the test current to avoid heating of the winding resulting in increase in resistance.
3.4.3.1. Wattmeter-voltmeter-ammeter method for load loss and impedance voltage test
The connection and apparatus needed for the determination of the load losses and impedance
voltage of a single-phase transformer are shown in Figures 7 and 8. Figure 8 applies when the
instrument transformers are required, which is the general case.
For three phase transformers, three-phase power measurement utilizing two wattmeter is
possible but can result in very large errors at low power factors encountered in load loss tests of
transformers. It is recommended that the two-wattmeter method should not be used for loss tests
on three-phase transformers of ratings preferably above 20 MVA, 66 kV class.
For three phase transformers, Figure 9 shows the apparatus and connections using the three-
wattmeter method.
Nowadays, digital power analysers or power meters are available for determination of load
losses. Selection of these power analysers shall be based on the desired accuracy at low power
factors.
The new generation of power analysers are equipped with software for automatic calculation of
corrected losses based on the input data of voltage, current, power, frequency and temperature.
3.4.4 Test Procedure
3.4.4.1 Two-winding transformers and auto transformers
Load loss and impedance voltage tests are carried out using the connections and apparatus
shown in figure 8 for single-phase transformers and figure 9 for three-phase transformers.
With one winding short-circuited, a voltage of sufficient magnitude is applied to the other
winding and adjusted to circulate test current in the excited winding. Simultaneous readings
of wattmeter, voltmeter and ammeter are taken. If necessary, the corrections for the losses in
external connections and connected measuring instruments should be made.
Test Requirements for Transformers 231
The procedure for testing three-phase transformers is very similar, except that all connections
and measurements are three-phase instead of single-phase and a balanced three-phase source
of power is used for the test. If the three line currents cannot be balanced, their average rms
value should correspond to the desired value, at which time simultaneous reading of wattmeters,
voltmeters and ammeters should be recorded.
Single phase and three-phase auto transformers may be tested with internal connections unchanged.
The test is made using the auto transformer connection. The input (or output) terminals are
shorted and voltage is applied to the other terminals. The voltage is adjusted to cause test current
to flow in the test circuit as shown in Figure10. Simultaneous readings of wattmeters, voltmeters
and ammeters are recorded for determination of load losses and impedance voltage.
For the purpose of measuring load losses and impedance voltage, the series and common
windings of auto transformers may be treated as separate windings, one short circuited,
the other excited. In this situation, where the transformer is connected in the two-winding
connection for the test, the current held must be the test current of the excited winding, which
may or may not be the same as rated line current. The load loss watts and applied volt-amperes
will be same, whether series and common windings are treated as separate windings in the
two-winding connection or are connected in the auto-transformer connection, so long as rated
winding current atleast 50 percent is held in the first case and rated line current atleast 50
percent in the second case.
For a three winding transformer, which may be either single phase or three phase, three sets of
impedance measurements are made between pairs of windings, following the same procedure
as for two winding transformers. Measurement of the impedances Z12, Z23 and Z31 are obtained
between windings 1, 2 & 3.
If the kVA capacities of the different windings are not alike, the current held for the
impedance test should correspond to the capacity of the lower rated winding of the pair
of the windings under test. However, all of these data when converted into percentage
form should be based on the same output kVA, preferably that of the primary winding. An
equivalent three-winding impedance network as shown in Figure 11 can be derived from
the following equations:
232 Manual on Transformers
Where
Z12, Z23 and Z31 are the measured impedance values between pairs of windings, as indicated all
expressed on the same kVA base.
These equations involve complex numbers, but they may be used for the resistance (in-phase)
component or the reactance (quadrature) component of the impedance voltage or of the
impedance volt-amperes.
The treatment of the individual load losses for temperature corrections, etc., is the same as for
two-winding, single phase transformers.
The total load losses of the three winding transformer is the sum of the losses in the branches of
the equivalent circuit of Figure 11 for any specific terminal load conditions.
Load loss measurements vary with temperature and in general must be corrected to a reference
temperature. In addition, load loss measurement values must be corrected for metering phase
angle error. Impedance voltage measurement to vary with frequency and the values must be
corrected for rated frequency.
Both I2R losses and stray losses of transformer vary with temperature. The I2R losses, Pr(Tm),
of a transformer are calculated from the ohmic resistance measurements (connected to the
temperature, Tm, at which the measurement of the load losses and impedance voltage was
done) and the current that were used in the impedance measurement. These I2r losses subtracted
Test Requirements for Transformers 233
from the measured load loss watts P(Tm), give the stray losses, Ps(Tm), of the transformer at the
temperature at which the load loss test was made.
Where
P(Tm) is the transformer load losses (watts), corrected in accordance with phase angle errors in
wattmeter at temperature Tm.
The I2R component of load losses increases with temperature. The stray loss component
diminishes with temperature. Therefore, when it is desirable to convert the load losses from the
temperature at which it is measured, Tm, to another temperature, T, the two components of the
load losses are corrected separately.
Thus,
Then
P (T) = Pr (T) + Ps (T)
Where
Pr (T) = I2R loss (watts) at temperature T, 0C
Ps (T) = stray losses (watts) at temperature T, 0C
P (T) = Transformer load losses (watts) corrected to temperature T, 0C
Tk = 234.5 0C (copper) » 235 0C
Tk = 225 0C (aluminium)
• Calculation for impedance
be the rated frequency. Then frequency correction should be applied to calculate the actual
impedance at rated frequency as following.
The formula for calculating the percentage impedance with current and frequency correction is
Vtest I rated fr
Z (%)= X X X 100
Vrated I test ft
Where
Insulation resistance tests are made to determine the insulation resistance from individual
winding to ground or between individual windings. The insulation resistance in such tests
is commonly measured in mega-ohms, or may be calculated from measurements of applied
voltage and leakage current.
Note
(1) The insulation resistance of electrical apparatus is subjected to wide variation in design, temperature, dryness,
and cleanliness of the parts. When the insulation resistance falls below prescribed values, it can, in most cases
of good design and where no defect exists, be brought up to that required standard by cleaning and drying the
apparatus. The insulation resistance, therefore, may offer a useful indication as to whether the apparatus is in
suitable condition for application of dielectric tests.
(2) Under no conditions, test should be made while the transformer is under vacuum.
• Instrumentation
Insulation resistance may be measured using the following equipment:
(a) A variable-voltage dc power supply with means to measure voltage and current
(generally in micro-amperes or milli-amperes)
(b) A mega-ohmmeter
Mega-ohmmeters are commonly available with nominal voltages of 500 V, 1000 V, 2500 V, and
5000 V; dc or in multiples of 1000 V upto 10,000 V.
• Voltage to be applied
The dc voltage applied for measuring insulation resistance to ground shall not exceed a value
Test Requirements for Transformers 235
equal to the half of the rated voltage of the winding or 5 kV whichever is lower.
• Procedure
Insulation resistance tests shall be made with all circuits of equal voltage above ground
connected together. Circuits or groups of circuits of different voltages above ground shall be
tested separately. All external insulating parts of the transformer shall be cleaned thoroughly to
remove dust, moisture etc. before the test.
• Examples:
(a) High voltage to low voltage and ground, low voltage to high voltage and ground.
(b) Voltage should be increased in increments of usually one kilovolt and held for one
minute while the current is read.
(c) The test should be disconnected immediately in the event the current begin to
increase without stabilizing.
(d) After the test has been completed, all terminals should be grounded for a period of
time sufficient to allow any trapped charges to decay to a negligible value.
• Polarisation Index (PI)
The purpose of polarisation index test is to determine if equipment is suitable for operation or
even for an overvoltage test. The polarisation index is a ratio of insulation resistance value at the
end of 10 min test to that at the end of 1 min test at a constant voltage.
The total current that is developed when applying a steady state dc voltage is composed of three
components:
(1) Charging current due to the capacitance of the insulation being measured. This
current falls off from maximum to zero very rapidly.
(2) Absorption current due to molecular charge shifting in the insulation. The transient
current decays to zero more slowly.
(3) Leakage current which is the true conduction current of the insulation. It has a
component due to the surface leakage because of the surface contamination.
The advantage of PI is that all of the variables that can affect a single IR reading, such as
temperature and humidity, are essentially the same for both the 1 min and 10 min readings. Since
leakage current increases at a faster rate with moisture present than does absorption current, the
IR readings will not increase as fast with insulation in poor condition as with insulation in good
condition. After 10 min the leakage current becomes constant and effects of charging current
and absorption current die down.
Acceptable PI value for power transformer shall be better than 1.5. For distribution transformer
it should be at least 1.3.
236 Manual on Transformers
• Interpretation of Results
Insulation resistance may vary with applied voltage and temperature any comparison must be
made with measurements at the same voltage.
The significance of values of insulation resistance tests generally requires some interpretation,
depending on the design and the dryness and cleanliness of the insulation involved. When a user
decides to make insulation resistance test, it is recommended that insulation resistance values be
measured periodically (during maintenance shutdown) and that these periodic values be plotted.
Substantial variations in the plotted values of insulation resistance should be investigated for cause.
With the tap-changer fully assembled on the transformer the following sequence of operations
shall be performed without failure:
(a) With the transformer un-energised, eight complete cycles of operations (a cycle of
operation goes from one end of the tapping range to the other, and back again).
(b) With the transformer un-energised, and with the auxiliary voltage reduced to 85% of its
rated value, one complete cycle of operation.
(c) With the transformer energized at rated voltage and frequency at no load, one
complete cycle of operation
(d) With one winding short circuited and, as far as practicable, two rated current according
to IEC 60076-1 in the winding, 10 tap-change operations across the range of two steps
on each side from where a coarse or reversing changeover selector operates, or otherwise
from the middle tapping.
3.6.2 Auxiliary Circuits Insulation Test
After the tap changer is assembled on the transformer, a power frequency tests according to IEC
60076-1 shall be applied to the auxiliary circuits as specified in IEC 60076-3.
The purpose of dielectric tests is to demonstrate that the transformer has been designed and
constructed to withstand the specified insulation levels. The insulation requirements for
the transformers and the corresponding dielectric tests are given in IS 2026 Part-3 and IEC
Publication 60076-3 with reference to specific windings and their terminals. For oil immersed
transformers, the requirements apply to the internal insulation only.
The dielectric tests shall generally be made at the manufacturer premises with the transformers
approximately at ambient temperature.
such as radiators and cabinets, which do not affect dielectric tests is not necessary. Bushing
shall, unless otherwise authorised by the purchaser, be those to be supplied with the
transformer.
If a transformer fails to meet its test requirements and the fault is in a bushing, it is permissible to
replace this bushing temporarily with another bushing and continue the tests on the transformer to
completion without delay. A particular case arises for tests with partial discharge measurements,
where certain types of commonly used high-voltage bushings create difficulty because of their
relatively high level of partial discharge in the dielectric. When such bushings are specified for
the transformer, it is permitted to exchange them for bushings of a partial discharge free type
during the testing of transformer.
Test levels and other test parameters shall be as per IEC Publication 60076-3 and the corresponding
IS 2026 Part-3.
It is recommended to measure voltage at the high voltage terminal of its transformer. The
measuring system shall be in accordance with IEC Publication 60071-2.
In conducting low frequency tests for transformers of 100 kVA and less to be tested at 50 kV
or less, it is permissible to depend on the ratio of testing transformer to indicate the proper test
voltage.
In transformers where uniformly insulated windings having different Um values are connected
together within the transformer, the separate source AC withstand test voltages shall be
determined by the insulation of the common neutral and its assigned Um.
In transformers which have one or more non uniformly insulated windings, the test voltages for
the induced withstand voltage test, and for the switching impulse test, are determined by the
winding with highest Um value, and the windings with lower Um values may not receive their
appropriate test voltages.
During switching impulse tests, the voltages developed across different windings are
approximately proportional to the ratio of turns. Rated switching impulse withstand voltages
shall only be assigned to the winding with the highest Um. Test stresses in other windings are
also proportional to the ratio of numbers of turns and are adjusted by selecting appropriate
tappings to come as close as possible to the assigned value.
The basic rules for insulation requirements and dielectric tests for different categories of
windings are described in Table 1(Refer IEC Publication 60076-3)
238 Manual on Transformers
The standard dielectric requirements are verified by dielectric tests. They shall, where applicable
and not otherwise agreed upon, be performed in the sequence as given below.
(1) Switching impulse test (SI) for the line terminal
(2) Lightning impulse test (LI) for the line terminals
(3) Lightning impulse test (LI) for neutral terminal
(4) Separate source AC withstand voltage test (applied potential test)
(5) Short-duration induced AC withstand voltage test (ACSD)
(6) Long-duration induced AC voltage test (ACLD)
3.7.3 Switching Impulse withstand Voltage Test, Transformer Winding Um > 300 kV
This test is intended to verify the switching impulse withstand strength of the line terminals and
its connected windings to earth and other windings, the withstand strength between phases and
along the winding under test.
The impulses are applied either directly from the impulse voltage source to a line terminal of
the winding under test, or to a lower voltage winding so that the test voltage is inductively
transferred to the winding under test.
The detailed test procedures and specific test requirements are addressed in IEC Publication
60076-3.
• Switching impulse waves
Polarity
The polarity of test voltage shall be negative because this reduces the risk of erratic external
flashovers in the test circuit.
Wave shape
The voltage impulse shall have a virtual front time of at least 100 μs, a time above 90% of the
specified amplitude of at least 200 μs, and a total duration from the virtual origin to the first zero
passage of at least 500 μs but preferably 1000 μs.
Test Requirements for Transformers 239
During the test the transformer shall be in a no-load condition. Windings not used for the test
shall be solidly earthed at one point but not short-circuited. For a single phase transformer, the
neutral terminal of the tested winding shall be solidly earthed.
A three-phase winding shall be tested phase by phase with the neutral terminal earthed and
with the transformer so connected that a voltage of opposite polarity and about half amplitude
appears on the two remaining line terminals which may be connected together.
To limit the voltage of opposite polarity to approximately 50% of the applied level, it is
recommended to connect high ohmic damping resistors (10 kΩ to 20 kΩ) to earth at the non
tested phase terminals.
• Failure detection
The test is successful if there is no sudden collapse of voltage or discontinuity of the neutral
current if recorded on the oscillographic or digital records.
Additional observation during the test (abnormal sound effect etc.) may be used to confirm the
oscillographic records, but they do not constitute evidence in themselves.
3.7.4 Lightning Impulse withstand Voltage Test
This test is intended to verify the impulse withstand strength of the transformer under test. This
test shall only be made on windings that have terminals brought out through the transformer
tank or cover.
When non-linear elements or surge diverters are installed for the limitation of transferred over
voltage transients, the evaluation of test records may be different compared to the normal
impulse test. These non-linear protective devices connected across the windings may cause
difference between the reduced full wave and the full-wave impulse oscillograms. To prove that
these differences are indeed caused by operation of these devices, this should be demonstrated
by making two or more reduced full-wave tests at different voltage levels to show the trend in
their operation.
The detailed test procedure and specific test requirements are addressed in IEC 60076-3.
• Impulse wave
The test impulse shall be a full standard lightning impulse: 1.2 µs ± 30% / 50 µs ± 20 %.
240 Manual on Transformers
But in some cases this standard impulse shape cannot reasonably be obtained, because of low
winding inductance or high capacitance to earth. In such cases wider tolerance may be accepted
by the agreement between purchaser and customer. It is recommended to use IEC Publication
60722 as a guide for non-standard wave shapes.
• Test sequence
The test sequence shall consists of one impulse of a voltage between 50% to 75% of full test
voltage, and three subsequent impulses at full voltage. If, during any of these applications,
an external flashover in the circuit or across a bushing spark gap should occur, or if the
oscillographic recording should fail on any of the specified measuring channels, that application
shall be disregarded and a further application made.
• Test Connections
The impulse test sequence is applied to each of the line terminals of the tested winding in
succession. In the case of a three phase transformer, the other line terminals of the winding
shall be earthed directly or through a low impedance, not exceeding the surge impedance of the
connected line. If the winding has neutral terminal, it shall be earthed directly or through a low
impedance such as a current measuring shunt.
In the case of separate-winding transformer, terminals of windings not under test are earthed
directly or through impedances, so that in all circumstances, the voltage appearing at the
terminals is limited to not more than 75% of their rated lightning impulse withstand voltage for
star connected windings, and 50% for delta- connected windings.
In case of auto transformer, when testing the line terminal of the high voltage winding the non-
tested line terminal shall be earthed through resistors not exceeding 400 Ω to get the impulse
waveform as needed.
• Records of test
The oscillographic or digital records obtained during calibrations and tests shall clearly show the
applied voltage impulse shape (front time, time to half value and amplitude). The oscillograms
of the current flowing to earth from the tested winding shall also be recorded.
• Test sequence
The test sequence shall consist of one impulse of a voltage between 50% to 75% of full test
voltage, and three subsequent impulses at full voltage. If, during any of these applications,
an external flashover in the circuit or across a bushing spark gap should occur, or if the
oscillographic recording should fail on any of the specified measuring channels, that application
shall be disregarded and a further application made.
Failure detection
In this method of failure detection, the impulse current in the grounded end of the winding tested
is measured by means of an oscilloscope or by a suitable digital transient recorder connected
across a suitable shunt inserted between the normally grounded end of the winding and ground.
Any differences in the wave shape between the reduced full-wave and final full-wave detected
by comparison of the two current oscillograms, may be indication of failure or deviations due to
no injurious causes. They should be fully investigated and explained by a new reduced wave and
full-wave test. Examples of probable causes of different wave shapes are operation of protective
devices, core saturation, conditions in the test circuit external to the transformer.
The ground current method of detection is not suitable for use with chopped-wave tests.
Voltage Oscillograms: Any unexplained difference between the reduced full-wave and final
full-wave detected by comparison of the two voltage oscillograms, or any such differences
observed by comparing the chopped-waves to each other and to the full-wave up to the time
of flashover, are indications of failure.
Noise: Unusual noise within the transformer at the instant of applying impulse is an indication
of trouble. Such noise should be investigated.
Measurement: Measurement of voltage and current induced in another winding may also be
used for failure detection.
The winding being tested shall have all its parts joined together and connected to the terminal
of the testing transformer.
All other terminals and parts (including core and tank) shall be connected to ground and to the
other terminal of the testing transformer.
• Application of voltage for Separate Source Withstand test
The test shall be commenced at a voltage not greater than one-third of the full value and be
brought up gradually to full value in not more than 15 s. After being held for the specified time
of 60 seconds, it should be reduced (in not more than 5s) to one third or less of the maximum
value and the circuit opened.
• Failure detection
Careful attention should be started given for evidence of possible failure that could include items,
such as an indication of smoke and bubbles rising in the oil, an audible sound such as a thump, or
a sudden increase in test circuit current. Any such indication should be carefully investigated by
observation, by repeating the test, or by other test to determine if a failure has occurred.
ACSD test is intended to verify the AC withstand strength of each line terminal and its connected
winding(s) to earth and other windings, the withstand strength between phases and along the
winding(s) under test
As per IS 2026 Part 3 and IEC Pub. 60076-3, the test is normally performed with partial
discharge measurement (Method 2) for transformers with highest voltage winding of ≥
300 kV. For transformer with highest voltage winding of < 300 kV, the test is performed
without partial discharge measurement (Method 1). However, with the latest revision of
IEC 60076-3, the methods for induced over-voltage withstand test are reformed as AC
short duration test (ACSD) and AC long duration test (ACLD).
ACSD test is intended to verify the AC withstand strength of each line terminal and its connected
winding(s) to earth and other windings, the withstand strength between phases and along the
winding(s) under test.
For Um >72.5 kV, the test is normally performed with partial discharge measurements to verify
partial discharge free operation of the transformer under operating condition. However, the
requirements for partial discharge measurement during the ACSD test may be omitted. This
shall be clearly stated at the enquiry and order stages.
ACLD test is always performed with the measurement of partial discharge during the whole
application of test. This is test is not a design proving test, but a quality control test and is
intended to cover temporary over voltages and continuous service stress. It verifies PD free
operation of the transformers under operating conditions.
Test Requirements for Transformers 243
An alternating voltage shall be applied to the terminals of one winding of the transformer. The
voltage shall be as nearly as possible sinusoidal and its frequency is sufficiently above the rated
frequency to avoid excessive magnetizing current during the test.
The test voltage is the peak value of voltage divided by √2 .The test time at full test voltage shall
be 60 sec for test frequency up to and including twice the rated frequency. For frequency above
twice the rated frequency the time duration of test shall be:
Rated frequency ,but not less than 15 sec
120 X
Test frequency
Table below shows the different conditions of induced AC voltage test as defined in IEC
publication 60076-3. The time duration for the application of test voltage with respect to earth
is shown in Figure 12
Table 2 :Induced AC Voltage test
Type of Type of winding Highest Test voltage level Test Remarks
test voltage of Duration
equipment (Refer Fig
Um 12)
Uniformly insulated ≤ 72.5 kV As per Table 2 of IEC 60 sec No PD measurement
60076-3
Fig.12: Time sequence for the application of test voltage with respect to earth
Where
U1 = Test voltage
The detailed procedure and specific test requirements are addressed in IEC-60076-3
3.7.8 Lightning Impulse Voltage withstand Test, Transformer Winding Um < 300 kV
Temperature rise test is performed to prove that temperature rise comply to limits specified in
standards and to derive thermal characteristics for the transformer.
The test is carried out supplying full load losses for sufficient time to ensure that the temperature
rise of the winding and oil reach steady state values.
The transformer shall be assembled completely with its cooling equipment. It is desirable
to put the specified conservator with the transformers, if available. Alternatively, temporary
conservator of approximately same capacity can be used for the purpose of the test.
Test Requirements for Transformers 245
The top oil temperature is measured by a thermometer in a pocket at the top of the transformer
tank, and this is used to verify that steady conditions have been reached. Final winding
temperatures cannot be measured directly.
The transformers shall be tested in the combination of connections and taps that give the highest
winding temperature rises as determined by the manufacturer and reviewed by the purchaser’s
representative when available. This will generally involve those connections and taps resulting
in the highest losses.
All temperature rise test shall be made under normal (or equivalent to normal) conditions of the
means of cooling.
The temperature–rise test shall be made in a room that is free from drafts as practicable and
equipped with its protective device.
Precautions should be taken to minimise variations of cooling air temperature specially when
the steady state is approached. Rapid variation of reading should be prevented by providing at
least three sensors, and average of their readings shall be used for evaluation. The sensors shall
be distributed around the tank 1m to 2m away from the tank or cooling surface and protected
from direct radiation.
The temperature is measured at the intake of the cooler. Readings of temperature and rate of
water flow should be taken at regular interval.
Test Method
During this test the transformer is subjected to the calculated total losses, previously obtained by
two separate determination of losses, namely load loss at reference temperature and no load loss.
First the top oil and average oil temperature rises are established when the transformer is
subjected to a test voltage such that the measured power is equal to the total losses of the
246 Manual on Transformers
transformer. The test current will be above rated current to the extent necessary for producing
an additional amount of loss equal to the no-load losses, and winding temperature rise will be
correspondingly elevated.
The oil temperature and cooling medium temperature are monitored, and the test is continued
until a steady- state oil temperature rise is established.
The test may be terminated when the rate of change of top oil temperature rise has fallen below
1oC per hour and has remained there for a period of 3 hour.
When the top oil temperature rise has been established, the test shall immediately continued
with the test current reduced to the rated current for the winding combination connected.
This condition is maintained for 1 h, with continuous observation of oil and cooling medium
temperatures.
At the end of one hour, the resistance of windings are measured with suitable method.
During the hour with rated current the oil temperature falls. The measured values of winding
temperature shall therefore be raised by the same amount as the average oil temperature rise has
fallen from the correct value. The corrected winding temperature value minus the cooling medium
temperature at the end of the total losses injection period is the average temperature rise.
By the agreement, the two steps of the test may be combined in one single application of the
power at a level between load loss and the total loss. The temperature- rise figures for the top
oil and for the windings shall then be determined using the correction rules. The power injected
during the test shall however be at least 80% of the total loss figure.
R2
θ2 = R1(235+θ1) - 235
Copper:
R2
Aluminum
: 02= Rl ( 225+ θ1) - 235
The external cooling medium temperature at the time of shutdown is θa
The winding temp. rise is then, finally :
∆θw =θ2-θa
Test Requirements for Transformers 247
Immediately after disconnection of test power supply and removal of short circuit connection
the resistance of winding is measured with a suitable measuring circuit. The winding has large
electrical time constant therefore accurate reading obtained only after a certain time delay. The
resistance of the winding varies with time as the winding cools down. It shall be measured for a
sufficient time to permit the extrapolation back to instant of shutdown.
The detailed procedure to determine the resistance at the instance of shutdown is accordance
with IEC-60076-2.
(e) Corrections
If the specified values of power or current have not been obtained during the test, the result shall
be corrected according to the following relation. They are valid within a range of +20% from
target value of power and +10% from target value of current.
The oil temperature rise above ambient during the test is multiplied by :
X
Total losses
Test losses
X= 0.8 for distribution transformers
The average winding temperature rise above average oil temperature during the test is multiplied by:
Y
Rated Current
Test losses
Y=1.6 for ON and OF cooled transformers
If no delta connection is present on the transformer, the applied voltage should not exceed 30%
of the rated line–to–neutral voltage of the winding being energized, nor should the phase current
exceed its rated value. If a delta connection is present, the applied voltage should be such that
the rated phase current of any delta winding is not exceeded. The percent excitation voltage at
which the tests are made shall be shown on the test report. The time duration of the test shall be
such that the thermal limits of any of the transformer parts are not exceeded.
Single–phase measurements of excitation voltage, total current, and power shall be similar to
those described in for load loss measurements. The zero–sequence impedance in percent on kVA
base of excited winding for the test connection is:
E
Z (%)=300 E I
Ir
r
Where
E = measured excitation voltage
Er = rated phase–to–neutral voltage of excited winding
I = measured total input current flowing in the three parallel–connected phases
Ir = rated current per phase of the excited winding
A zero-sequence test shall be made on the winding with the available neutral. A single–phase
voltage shall be applied between the three shorted line terminal and neutral. The external
terminals of all other windings may be open–circuited or shorted and grounded.
The zero-sequence impedance is dependent upon the physical disposition of the windings and
the magnetic parts and measurement of different windings may not therefore agree.
Audible sound from transformer originates principally in the transformer core and is transmitted,
Test Requirements for Transformers 249
either through the dielectric fluid or the structural support, to other solid surfaces from which it
is radiated as airborne sound. The audible sound also contains the noise emitted by any dielectric
fluid mechanical cooling system.
Measurement should be made in an environment having an ambient sound pressure level at least
five decibels below the combined sound pressure level of the transformer and the ambient sound
pressure level.
The transformer shall be located so that no acoustically reflecting surface is within 3 m of the
measuring microphone, other than the floor or ground.
The transformer shall be connected and energised at rated voltage and rated frequency,
and shall be at no load with the tap changer on principal tap. Pumps and fans shall be
operated as appropriate for the rating being tested. Sound measurements shall begin after the
transformer being tested is energised and steady- state sound level conditions are established.
Measurements may be made immediately on the transformers that have been in continuous
operation.
The rated voltage shall be measured line-line for ∆ connected windings and line-neutral for Y
connected windings. The voltage shall be measured with a voltmeter responsive to the average
value of the voltage but scaled to read the rms value of a sinusoidal wave having the same average
value. The voltmeter should be connected between the terminals of the energized windings.
The reference sound-producing surface is a vertical surface that follows the contour of a taut
string stretched around periphery of the transformer or integral enclosure (Fig 12). The contour
shall include radiators, coolers, tubes, switch compartments, and terminal chambers, but exclude
bushing and minor extensions.
The measurement shall be done with the microphone, which shall be calibrated as recommended
by the sound level meter manufacturer before and after measurement. The first microphone
locations shall coincide with the main drain valve. The number of microphone position is not
less than 4. The microphone shall be located on the measurement surface spaced 0.3 m from
the reference sound- producing surface. When fans are in operation, the microphone shall be
located 2 m from any portion of radiators and coolers. For transformers having an overall tank or
enclosure height of les than 2.4 m, measurements shall be made at half height. For transformers
having an overall tank height of 2.4 m or more, measurements shall be made at one-third and at
two-thirds height.
The sound power rating of the transformer is determined using the following five steps:
(a) Measure ambient sound pressure level
(b) Measure combined ambient and transformer sound pressure levels
(c) Compute ambient corrected sound pressure levels
(d) Compute average sound pressure levels
(e) Calculate sound power levels
250 Manual on Transformers
The average sound level of transformers should not exceed the values given in table 0-2 through
0-4 of NEMA TR1 when measured at the factory in accordance with the conditions outlined in
ANSI/IEEEC57.12.90.
The harmonics of the no–load current in all the phases are measured by means of harmonic analyzer
and the magnitude of the harmonics is expressed as a percentage of the fundamental component.
3.13 Measurement of Power taken by the Fans and Oil Pump Motors
This test is a special test and should be used for special applications on the line terminals of a
winding. When this test is performed it shall be combined with the full lightning impulse test.
The peak value of the chopped impulse shall be 1.1 times the amplitude of the full impulse.
Usually the same settings of the impulse generator and measuring equipment are used, and only
the chopping gap instrument is added. The standard chopped lightning impulse shall have a time
to chopping between 2 µs and 6 µs.
The triggered type chopping gap should be used with adjustable timing, although a plain rod-rod
gap is allowed. The chopping circuit should be so arranged that the amount of over swing to
opposite polarity of the recorded impulse will be limited to not more than 30% of the amplitude
of the chopped impulse. For this purpose, it is permitted to put a resistance in service with the
chopping gap.
The test is combined with the full impulse test in a single sequence. The order of application is :
Test Requirements for Transformers 251
The detection of faults during chopped impulse test depends essentially on a comparison of the
oscillographic or digital records of full level and reduced level chopped impulses. The neutral
current record presents a superposition of transient phenomena due to the front of the original
impulse and from the chopping. Account should therefore be taken of the possible variations, of
the chopping time delay.
The recordings of successive full impulse tests at full level constitute a supplementary criterion of
a fault, but they do not constitute in themselves a quality criterion for the chopped impulse test.
Alternatively the test is performed with the help of megger. In which the value of insulation
resistance is measured between two terminals. This test shall be conducted in accordance with
IS-2026 Part 1.
The tests will be successful if the terminals withstand the required AC voltage for test duration.
The values of the insulation resistance in mega-ohm (MΩ) should as follows;
FP20 = Fpt /K
Where,
FP20 is the power factor corrected to 20 0C
Fpt is the power factor measured at T
T is the test temperature 0C
K is the correction factor as per table above
Insulation temperature may be considered to be that of the average liquid temperature. When
insulation power factor is measured at a relatively high temperature and the corrected values
are unusually high, the transformer should be allowed to cool and the measurements should be
repeated at or near 20 0C
This test is conducted only in three phase transformers to check the imbalance in the magnetic
circuit. In this test, no winding terminal should be grounded; otherwise results would be erratic
and confusing.
• Evaluation criteria
The voltage induced in the center phase shall be 50% to 90% of the applied voltage on the outer
phases. However, when the center phase is excited then the voltage induced in the outer phases
shall be 30 to 70% of the applied voltage.
Zero voltage or very negligible voltage induced in the other two windings should be
investigated.
The purpose of this test basically is to ensure that there is no inter turn fault in the winding which
is generally reflected in high excitation current in faulty winding.
When the low-voltage winding cannot be subjected to lightning over voltage from the low
voltage system, this winding may, by agreement between supplier and purchaser, be impulse
tested with surges transferred from high voltage winding.
This method is also used when the design is such that an impulse directly applied to
the low voltage winding could result in unrealistic stressing of higher voltage windings,
particularly when there is a large tapping winding physically adjacent to the low voltage
winding.
With the transferred surge method, the tests on the low voltage winding are carried out by
applying the impulse to the adjacent high voltage winding. The line terminals of the low
voltage winding is connected to earth through resistance of such value that the amplitude of the
254 Manual on Transformers
transferred impulse voltage between line terminals and earth, or between different line terminal
or across a phase winding, will be as high as possible but not exceeding the rated impulse
withstand voltage. The magnitude of the applied impulses shall not exceed the impulse level of
the winding to which the impulses are applied.
The details of the procedure shall be same as the lightning impulse test on line terminal of HV
winding.
• Introduction
For many years the method of analyzing gasses dissolved in the oil has been used as a tool in
transformer diagnostics in order to detect incipient faults, to supervise suspect transformers, to
test a hypothesis or explanation for the probable reasons of failures or disturbances which have
already occurred and to ensure that new transformers are healthy.
The evaluation criteria with dissolve gas analysis is based on the fact that during its lifetime the
transformer generates decomposition gasses–essential from the organic insulation – under the
influence of various stresses– both normal and abnormal.
The gasses that are of interest for the DGA analysis are the following;
- H2 Hydrogen
- CH4 Methane
- C2 H4 ethylene
- C2H6 Ethane
- C2H2 acetylene
- (C3H6 propene )– not always measure
- (C3H8 propane ) – not always measure
- CO carbon monoxide
- CO2 carbon dioxide
- O2 oxygen
- N2 Nitrogen
- TCG total combustible gas content (= H2 + CH4 + C2H4 + C2H6 + C2H2 + CO)
All these gases except oxygen and nitrogen may be formed during the degradation of the
insulation. The amount and the relative distribution of these depend on the type and severity of
the degradation and stress.
Around the world and during the years several different schemes have been proposed as
evaluation scheme for the DGA. The most commonly known schemes are the one proposed by
Rogers and the scheme laid down in IEC publication 60599
Test Requirements for Transformers 255
• Procedure
The DGA procedure consists of essential four steps:
• Interpretation
There are several different approaches how to explain and interpret the analyzed gas composition
and to diagnose the condition of the transformer. The well known DGA analysis techniques are
- Identification of the key gas, The key gas identify a particular problem, e.g., H2 indicates
a PD
- Determination of rations between gasses, normally between gas levels.
- Determination of rates of increase (“production rates”), in ppm / day or ml gas/day
The most common known schemes are the one proposed by Rogers forming the basis for the
ANSI method and the scheme laid down in IEC Publication 60599. Both these methods are
using ratios gas concentrations.
This scheme can also be used to understand the evaluation – scheme based on ratios.
For instance, the IEC method uses 3 ratios, C2H2/ C2H4, CH4/ H2, C2H4/ C2H6
CH4/H2 is used to discriminate between a thermal fault and an electric fault. C2H2/C2H4 indicates
the presence of a strong discharge of very severe electric problem and C2H4/ C2H6 is an indication
of the oil temperature.
The insulation of a transformer must be proportioned to the surge voltages, which will appear
at the various points throughout the windings. The surge voltage distribution in the winding is
independent of the magnitude of the applied voltage and that the same results may be obtained
by applying a reduced surge voltage, of the order of a few hundred volts.
This test is conducted with a recurrent surge generator, which consists of a capacitor charged
to a suitable voltage and discharged by means of a thyratron into a circuit which is designed to
generate the required low-voltage surge of the standard wave shape. The charge and discharge
sequence is repeated fifty times per second. The output voltage from the recurrent surge
256 Manual on Transformers
generator is applied to the terminal of the transformer being tested, in a similar manner to
that in which a high voltage impulse test would be conducted. The surge voltage appearing
at any point of the winding can be measured and displayed on the screen of the cathode-ray
oscilloscope. The time base is arranged so that it is synchronized with the recurrent discharge
of the capacitor. By this means it is possible to obtain a standing picture on the screen of the
applied voltage and of the voltage appearing at the points along the winding, together with a
time calibration wave.
The test provides information on impulse distribution along the winding and transferred surge
voltages on the other windings.
This test is done to check uniform distribution of flux on every point on the core & to determine
the core hot spot temperature.
This test is done by exciting the core with suitable voltage, which is the voltage per turn is
multiplied with the wound turn around the core.
The required voltage is applied to transformer and note down the reading of temperature at the
different point on the core using thermo vision camera or laser temperature scanner. The reading
of the temperature should not vary too much from point to point.
If the temperature is varying from one point to other then the flux is not distributed uniformly
around the core. Scan the point around the core where the highest temperature occurs. This is
the hot spot temperature of the core.
Frequency response analysis (FRA) test is conducted on transformers & reactors to determine
the frequency response of windings. The reference frequency responses obtained during
laboratory testing serve as ‘fingerprints’ to monitor the condition of the transformer or reactor
during service.
The frequency response of an electrical winding is obtained by application of sweep frequency
(sinusoidal). The winding will have a characteristic frequency response for the applied signal
at different frequencies. The response is uniquely determined by the winding arrangement
involved and any winding movement or other fault will modify the frequency response due
to changes in inductances and capacitances. The sweep frequency voltage is applied through
network analyzers. The frequency response of the winding is determined between the frequency
ranges of 10 Hz to 2 MHz.
The FRA test is performed on one winding of the electrical equipment at a time. The
transformer / reactor shall be electrically isolated from any other electrical connections or systems,
including earth connections during FRA test. The two end terminals of each winding shall be
made available for measuring the frequency response across the winding.
Test Requirements for Transformers 257
# For star connected winding, the response shall be measured across the terminal &
neutral.
# For delta connected winding, the response shall be measured across two line terminals &
in case of open-delta, across individual winding.
# For auto connected winding, the response of series & common windings shall be measured
separately.
For a transformer, it is normal practice to earth one end of every winding that is not being tested,
leave the other open end. Alternatively, all other windings may be left unconnected from each
other and from earth. In every case, the termination of each winding for each test should be
recorded.
The frequency response of the winding is determined by plotting the ratio of the output from the
winding to the input at atleast following frequency ranges.
* 10 Hz to 2 kHz
* 100 Hz to 20 kHz
* 1 kHz to 200 kHz
* 10 kHz to 2 MHz
Alternatively frequency ranges specified by the customer can be selected. The test is normally
conducted at maximum, mean and minimum taps, in case of windings having tapping. While
making measurements at mean tap, care should taken to move the tap from higher voltage
taps, for proper comparison of FRA results of different phases of same transformer or different
transformers.
The FRA results is analyzed for
- Changes in response of the winding
- Difference between the FRA records of different phases of the same transformer.
FRA test is primarily a condition assessment test and can be used in conjunction with other
diagnostic tests for detailed analysis and interpretation of the transformer.
The acceptance criteria for the results of exciting current measurement should be based on the
comparison with the previous site test results or factory test results. The general pattern is two
similar high readings on the outer phases and one lower reading on the center phase connected in
star, in case of three phase transformers. An agreement to within 25% of the measured exciting
current with the previous test is usually considered satisfactory. If the measured exciting current
value is 50% higher than the value measured during pre-commissioning checks, then the winding
needs further analysis.
258 Manual on Transformers
(i) Each completely assembled instrument shall be tested for accuracy over the complete
range i.e. at 40º, 60º, 80º, 100º & 120 º C by keeping the bulb in the hot oil bath
continuously stirred. The accuracy of indication shall be ±1.5 % full scale deflection
(FSD).
2. WTI ( Range 30º - 150º C)
(i) Each completely assembled instrument shall be tested by injecting the current to its
heater coil. Oil bath shall be maintained at 60 0C, Total temperature and temperature
rise shall be recorded for 0, 2, 3 and 4 amperes current. The accuracy of the indication
i.e. oil bath temperature measured by standard. Thermometer plus rise in temperature
due to injection of current in heating coil i.e. total temperature indicated by WTI
shall be within ± 1.5 % FSD. Error allowed shall be 1.5 / 100 x 150 = ± 2.25 0C
Max.
(ii) In case of repeater, both WTI and repeater shall be tested together by injecting the
current as mentioned in 2(I). Accuracy of the repeater readings shall be within ± 1.5
FSD i.e. ± 1.5 0C considering WTI readings as the reference temperature.
• High Voltage Test on Insulation test of auxiliary wiring
Unless otherwise specified the wiring for auxiliary power and control circuitry shall be subjected
to a one minute power frequency withstand test of 2 kV r.m.s. to earth. Motors and other
apparatus for auxiliary equipment shall fulfill insulation requirements according to the relevant
IEC standard (which are generally lower than the value specified for the wiring alone, and which
may sometimes make it necessary to disconnect them in order to test the circuits)
Switch setting and operations: Switches shall be able to set between 50–140 0C and their
operation shall be within ± 2.5% of pointer indication unless otherwise specified on purchase
order. Switch setting will be done as below:
Switch differential
Each switch shall have adjustable differential (difference between make and break temperature)
of 6 0C to 90 0C and will be set for 6 ± 1 0C differential.
Switch Rating
Following test on the oil filled in the transformer shall be necessary performed before conducting
electrical test to ensure proper oil impregnation of the insulation system.
The voltage at which the oil breaks down when subjected to an AC electric field with continuously
increasing voltage contained in the specified apparatus is called dielectric strength. The voltage
is expressed in kV.
The dielectric strength of oil is determined by the two methods. First method utilizes spherical
capped electrode in the test cell, which is recommended primarily for filtered, degassed and
dehydrated oil prior to and during filling of electrical power equipment rated above 230
kV and above. The second method utilizes flat electrodes and recommended for all other
apparatus.
The acceptance value of oil for the different test voltage of transformer in general is recommended
as per the table given below.
High water content accelerates the chemical deterioration of the insulating paper and is indicative
of the undesirable operating conditions or maintenance requiring correction.
260 Manual on Transformers
This test covers the determination of the power factor of new and service aged oil. This test
is used to indicate the dielectric losses in the oil when used in an alternating electric field
and of the energy dissipated as heat. A low power factor indicates low dielectric losses. It
is useful as a means to ensure that sample integrity is maintained, and as an indication of
changes in quality resulting from contamination and deterioration in service or as a result
of handling.
The detailed test procedure and test equipment shall be in accordance with IS 6262.
Acceptable limit for the dielectric dissipation factor largely upon the type of apparatus and
application. The power factor limits given for oil are based upon the understanding that this is
an indicator test for contamination by excessive water or polar or ionic materials in the oil. High
level of dissipation factor (0.5 % at 25º C) is because of contaminants may collect in the areas
of high electrical stress and concentrate in the winding. Very high dissipation factor ( > 1.0% )
in oil may be caused by the presence of free water which could be hazardous to the operation
of a transformer.
3.25.4 Resistivity
The resistivity (specific resistance) in ohm-centimeters of a liquid is the ratio of the dc potential
gradient in volts per centimeter paralleling the current flow within the specimen, to the current
density in amperes per square centimeter at a given instant of time and under prescribed
conditions. This is numerically equal to the resistance between opposite faces of a centimetre
cube of liquid.
Resistivity measurements are made at many different temperatures. But for acceptance test, it
is generally done at a temperature of 90º C, while for routine testing, it is usually made at room
temperature or 90º C. The average electrical stress to which specimen is subjected to shall not
be less than 200 V/mm nor more than 1200 V/mm. the upper limit is set with the purpose of
avoiding possible ionization if higher stresses are permitted.
Useful information can be obtained by measuring resistivity at both ambient and at higher
temperature such as 90º C. A satisfactory result at 90º C coupled with an unsatisfactory
value at lower temperature is an indication of the presence of water or degradation products
precipitated.
The vibration measurement on the completely assembled transformer is done to ascertain the
safety of the transformer against any impending mechanical damage due to looseness of the
Test Requirements for Transformers 261
component leading to high vibrations. The vibration in the transformer caused by the attraction
between the poles at the level of each air gap. Mechanical resonance may appear in the system
formed by the core packets, the yokes and the insulating spacers. Moreover, other components
not located in the magnetic circuit can also enter into resonance, particularly some parts of the
tank, which receive impulses transmitted through oil.
For conducting vibration measurements, the transformer is energized at rated voltage and the
rated frequency. A magnetic accelerometer is fixed at the location where measurement is intended.
The vibration signal from accelerometer is transmitted to a vibration meter which indicates the
vibration level in microns. For thorough checking of vibration pattern, the transformer tank
is marked into several small sections for measurement of the highest amplitude vibrations.
The measurement shall commence after allowing minimum 30 minutes stabilization time after
energizing the transformer at rated voltage.
There is no acceptable criterion for vibrated level on a transformer. However, one should look
for only appreciable increase in the load during the test period and subsequent readings taken at
periodic intervals at site.
Vacuum test is carried out to check out any permanent deflection of flat plate after the vacuum
has been released. This test is to be carried out at test figures specified on the tank drawing.
This test is carried out on only one tank of same work order until otherwise specified by
customer.
Tank and its temporary structure are connected as given in the drawing and connect the tank to
the vacuum pumping instrument. The tank shall be capable of withstanding an absolute pressure
as stated on the drawing for at least 60 minute. During and after vacuum test we should examine
all welds for cracks. In the event of repair work, vacuum test should be repeated.
Maximum temporary deflection during test and permanent deflection after test should be
measured. Permanent deflection should not exceed the value specified in the specification.
This test is done after completion of all electrical and temperature rise test. Transformer with
cooling bank, bushing and other accessories shall be tested for any oil leakage at high pressure
(normal pressure plus 35 kN per sq.m measured at the base of tank) and at room temperature as
specified by customer.
isolated.
4. In welded cover type construction cooler bank, bushings shall be removed but all turrets
and cover pipe work shall remain.
5. Fill the oil completely and release all trapped air.
6. The specified pressure shall be maintained for the specified test duration as specified in
the test schedule or quality plan.
7. The test duration should be at least one hour unless otherwise specified.
• Criteria for oil pressure test
During the pressure test, there shall not be any leakage. If there is pressure drop during the test
either because of some trapped air inside the transformer or due to ambient
temperature variation, the pressure shall be raised to the specified level. The unit will be
considered to pass the test only if there is no visual oil leakage. Pressure drop shall be considered
as failure of the unit in the test.
3.29 Jacking Test and Dye-penetration Test
This test is done to check out the mechanical capability of jacking pads on bottom tank of
transformer.
The procedure for conducting the above test is as follows:
1. Bring the transformer on to rail track
2. The transformer should be filled with oil.
3. Place jack under jacking pads such that the C.L. of the jack ram coincides with the jack
points on jacking pads at appropriate height.
4. connect the jacks to hydraulic pump unit
5. Raise pressure of oil slowly so that the transformer is lifted gradually.
6. Continue lifting till, the flanges of the rollers are above the R/L and its possible to turn the
wheel.
7. The transformer must be held in the raised condition for 15 minutes.
8. Lower the transformer gradually after the expiry of time period by releasing oil pressure
in stages till the wheel again rest on the rails.
The transformer jacking pads should withstand this test without any deformation or any cracks.
The dye-penetration test is done simultaneously with jacking test to check out any welding
cracks in jacking pads. This is done by applying the dye paint to the welded joints of jacking
pads. If there is no leakage of dye at welding joints, then the welded joint is perfect.
3.30 Pressure Relief Device Test
The pressure relief device shall be subjected to rising pressure (pneumatically). The pressure
at which the device operates shall be noted. The operating pressure should be less than normal
pressure plus 35 kN/m2.
Test Requirements for Transformers 263
• INTRODUCTION
Transformer is important and vital equipment between generation station and the utility and
therefore necessary to ensure its proper performance through out its service life. During
transportation, installation and service operation, the transformer may be exposed to conditions,
which adversely affect its reliability and useful life.
Field-testing and condition monitoring are the techniques to ensure good operating health of
power transformers. Interpretations are also included to provide additional information on the
particular test and to provide guidance on acceptable criteria. There is not necessary any direct
relationship between field tests and factory tests.
Interpretation of measured results is usually based on a comparison with data obtained previously
on the same unit under similar condition. It should be noted that some times the results of several
types of tests should be interpreted together to diagnose a problem. Manufactures acceptance
criteria shall also be consulted.
B.1 Dew Point Measurement for Large Transformers Filled with dry air or nitrogen filled
Large rating transformers are transported to site from manufacturing works, without oil and
filled with dry air or nitrogen due to weight limitations. Positive gas pressure is generally
maintained at 0.175 kg/m2 during transportation and storage. As the insulation of transformer is
hygroscopic, it absorbs moisture from atmosphere if positive pressure of gas is not maintained.
After arrival of transformer at site it is necessary to check the gas pressure and if it is not
positive there is every possibility that moisture must have gone inside the transformer during
transportation. To ascertain this factor and to check the dryness of the insulation, dew point
measurement is carried out at site.
Dew point is the temperature at which the water vapours present in the gas filled in the transformer
begin to condense.
It will not be possible to define a limit of dew point of nitrogen gas as dew point depends on the
ambient temperature, pressure of the gas, moisture level of cellulose insulation etc.
The procedure and acceptance limits are given in Section CC of this manual.
• ELECTRICAL TESTS
B.2 Winding Resistance Measurement
Transformer winding resistances are measured at site in order to check for abnormalities due
to loose connections, broken strands of conductor, high contact resistance in tap changers, high
voltage leads and bushings.
Example 1
Connect 1U to 2U
MEASURE 1W-2V, 1W-2W, 1U-2W, 1V-2V,
1V-2W
VOLTAGE RELATION
1W-2V= 1W-2W
1W-2V< 1U-1W
1V-2V<1V-2W
1V-2V <1U-1W
Fig 1 : For HV-Delta / LV-Star Transformer
Test Requirements for Transformers 265
Example 2
Connect 1U to 2U
MEASURE 1W-2V, 1W-2W, 1U-2W, 1V-2V,
1V-2W
VOLTAGE RELATION
1W-2W = 1V-2W
1W-2U > 1V-2U
1U-N=1U-2W+2W-N
Yd11
Fig 2: For HV-Star / LV-Delta Transformer
The test shall be conducted with three phase supply and voltmeters.
By the measured voltage data it should ensure that the desired conditions of vector group and
polarity are fulfilled.
Ensure the isolation of transformer from high voltage and low voltage side with physical
inspection of open condition of the concerned isolators. In case tertiary is also connected, ensure
the isolation of the same prior to commencement of testing.
To determine the turns ratio of transformers during commissioning and periodic interval decided
by the customer for preventive maintenance
(b) Apply 3 phase or single phase supply according to the transformer type on HV
terminals.
The test shall be conducted with three phase supply and voltmeters.
Results of the transformation turns/voltage ratio are absolute, and may be compared with the
specified values measured during factory testing. One should also consider the trend of voltage
ratio values with reference to the ratio values measured during the commissioning tests.
The voltage should be applied only in the high voltage winding in order to avoid unsafe
voltage.
266 Manual on Transformers
This test is performed to locate defect in the magnetic core structure, shifting of windings,
failure in turn to turn insulation or problems in tap changers. These conditions change the
effective reluctance of the magnetic circuit thus affecting the current required to establish flux
in the core.
(a) First of all keep the tap position in the lowest position and IV and LV terminals open.
(b) Apply 3 phase 415V supply on the line terminal for 3-phase transformers and 1-phase,
230 V supply on single phase transformer.
(c) Measure the voltage applied on each phase (Phase-Phase) on line terminals and current in
each phase of the line terminal.
(d) After completion of the above steps keep the tap positioning Normal position and repeat
the steps a to c.
(e) After completion of the above steps keep the tap positioning at Highest position and
repeat the steps a to c.
(f) Repeat the test with tap position in normal position.
The test shall be conducted with single phase or three phase supply according to test requirement,
voltmeter and multimeter.
The acceptance criteria for the results of exciting current measurement should be based on the
comparison with the previous site test results or factory test results. The general pattern is two
similar high readings on the outer phases and one lower reading on the center phase, in case of
three phase transformers connected in star. An agreement to within 30% of the measured exciting
current with the previous test is usually considered satisfactory. If the measured exciting current
value is 50 times higher than the value measured during pre-commissioning checks, then there
is likelihood of a fault in the winding which needs further analysis.
Care should be taken during exciting current measurement to avoid the effect of residual
magnetism in the transformer core. The residual magnetism results in the measurement of higher
than normal exciting current.
This test is conducted only on three phase transformer to check the imbalance in the magnetic
circuit.
The procedure for conducting test is as follows
(a) Keep the tap in nominal tap position
(b) Disconnect the transformer neutral from ground
(c) Apply single phase 230 V across one of the HV winding terminal and neutral then measure
voltage in other two HV terminals across neutral. Repeat the test for each of the three phases.
(d) Repeat the above test for IV winding also
Test Requirements for Transformers 267
The test shall be conducted with 230 V single phase supply and voltmeter
The voltage induced in the center phase shall be 50 to 90% of the applied voltage. However,
when the center phase is excited then the voltage induced in the outer phases shall be 30 to 70%
of the applied voltage.
Zero voltage or very negligible voltage induced in the other two windings should be
investigated.
Disconnect transformer neutral from ground and no winding terminal should be grounded,
otherwise results would be erratic and confusing.
The purpose of this test basically to ensure that there is no inter turn fault in the winding which
is generally reflected in high excitation current in faulty winding.
This test should be performed prior to a unit being placed in-service or following modifications
to the transformer which could affect the integrity of its core insulation.
Refer clause 3.15 part A of this section for test procedures and acceptance criterion.
To find out the short circuit impedance of transformer the measurement is performed in single
phase mode. This test is performed for the combination of two winding. The one of the winding is
short circuited and voltage is applied to other winding. The voltage and current reading are noted.
The test shall be conducted with variac of 0-280 V, 10 A, precision RMS voltmeter and
ammeter.
The acceptable criteria should be the measured impedance voltage having agreement to within 3
percent of impedance specified in rating and diagram nameplate of the transformer. Variation in
impedance voltage of more than 3% should be considered significant and further investigated.
The conductors used for short-circuiting one of the transformer windings should have low
impedance (less than 1m-ohm) and short length. The contacts should be clean and tight.
Insulation resistance test are made to determine the insulation resistance from individual winding
to ground or between individual windings. The insulation resistance in such tests is commonly
measured in mega-ohms, or may be calculated from measurements of applied voltage and
leakage current.
The test is conducted with the help of Mega-ohmmeter. IR is proportional to the leakage current
through/over the insulation after capacitive charging and absorption currents become negligible
268 Manual on Transformers
Polarization Index (PI) is useful parameters for logistic interpretation of IR test results. This
ratio is independent of temperature and gives more reliable data for large power transformers. A
PI of more than 1.25 and dielectric absorption factor of more than 1.3 are considered satisfactory
for a transformer when the results of other low voltage tests are found in order. PI of less than
1 calls for immediate corrective action. For bushings, an IR value of above 10000 M-ohms is
considered satisfactory.
The insulation dissipation factor (tan delta) is the ratio of the resistive current to the capacitive
current flowing through the insulation on application of sinusoidal voltage under prescribed
condition. The capacitance values are relatively independent of temperature and prevailing
atmospheric conditions. Normally low dissipation factor is indicative of problem in insulation
structure and predictive aging of insulation.
The voltage to be applied shall not exceed half of the power frequency test voltage or 10 kV
whichever is lower. Detailed test procedure is concerned under this manual earlier.
The test is conducted with high voltage supply and Schering bridge
High dissipation factor is indicative of problem in insulation structure and predictive aging of
insulation. But, the comparative values of tests taken at periodic intervals are useful in identifying
potential problems rather than an absolute value of tan delta. The initial reference can be drawn
from the tan delta values measured during factory testing.
Test Requirements for Transformers 269
The acceptance criterion to assess the probable condition of the insulation of the transformer
is no substantial variation in the measured values of tan delta (dissipation factor) at periodic
interval when compared with previous references. For bushings, the tan delta value shall not
exceed 0.7% during operation.
Environmental factors like variation in temperature, relative humidity, surrounding charged
objects etc. have great influence on measurement of dissipation factor. Care shall be taken to
control the above factors during measurements.
The test procedure to conduct DGA test is accordance with the IS 9434.
The main gases formed as result of thermal and electrical faults in a transformer are Hydrogen
(H2), Methane (CH4), Ethane (C2H6), Ethylene (C2H4), Acetylene (C2H2), Carbon Monoxide
(CO) and Carbon dioxide (CO2). Whereas Acetylene is mainly associated with arcing at very
high temperature ranges, Ethylene is related with hot spots and medium temperature ranges.
Hydrogen is mainly result of ‘cold’ gas plasma of corona discharges. Carbon monoxide and
carbon dioxide are the result of thermal decomposition of cellulose material.
For proper interpretation of DGA results, it is essential to collect data at periodic intervals
during the service life of the transformer and the additional information regarding age of the
transformer, past history of failures, loading pattern, history of filtration etc.
5.1.1 The inherent voltage regulation from no-load to a load of any assumed value and power
factor may be computed from the impedance voltage and corresponding load loss measured
270 Manual on Transformers
Let
Ex=EXSC X (I/ISC)
Er = P ;
I
EX%=100EX/E;
Er%=100Er/E;
= Ia/I ; and
Ia = current in winding in excited during the short circuit test corresponding to that obtained when
loading at the assumed load on the output side and with rated voltage on the input side.
5.1.2 For rated load at unity power factor, the percentage regulation is approximately equal to:
Er + (Ex%)
2
200
5.1.3 For rated load at any power factor cosФ, the percentage regulation is approximately
equal to:
5.1.4 For any assumed load other than rated load and unity power factor, the percentage
regulation is approximately equal to:
n. Er + (n. Ex%)
2
200
Test Requirements for Transformers 271
5.1.5 For any assumed load other than rated load and at any power factor cos Ф, the percentage
regulation is approximately equal to:
5.1.6 The above formula are sufficiently accurate for transformers covered by this
specification.
5.2.1 The formula given in 2.1 for two-winding transformers can be applied to three-winding
transformers and their regulation calculated with an accuracy comparable to that of the data
available by assuming that the currents in the windings remain constant both in magnitude and
phase angle even though the output terminal voltage change, due to the regulation, from their
no-load values.
On a three-winding transformer the no-load voltage of a winding will change with current in the
other windings (even though it remains itself unloaded).
For the frequent case of two output winding (W2 and W3) and one input winding (W1) the voltage
regulation is usually required for three loading conditions, namely:
Only W2 loaded,
Only W3 loaded, and
Both W2 and W3 loaded.
For each condition two separate figures should be quoted, that is the regulation of each output
winding W2 and W3 (whether carrying current or not) for constant voltage supplied to the
winding W1.
Note: The regulation between W2 and W3 relative to each other for this simple and frequent case is implicit in the values
(W1 to W2) and (W1 to W3) and nothing is gained by expressing it separately.
5.2.2 The data required are the impedance voltage and load losses derived by testing the
three windings in pairs and expressing the results on a basic KVA, which can conveniently
be the rated kVA of the smallest winding. It should be determined from the transformer as
built.
272 Manual on Transformers
From the data, an equivalent circuit 3 winding transformer is derived as shown below:
a23 and b23 similarly apply to a test on the windings pair W2 and W3 (with W1 on open-circuit);
a31 and b31similarly apply to a test on the windings pair W3 and Wj(with W2on open-circuit);
It is to be noted that some of these mathematical values may be negative or may even
be zero (depending on the actual physical relative arrangement of the windings on the
core).
Test Requirements for Transformers 273
For the desired loading conditions the kVA operative in each arm of the equivalent circuit is
determined and the regulation of each arm is calculated separately. The regulation with respect to
the terminals of any pair of windings is the algebraic sum of the regulations of the corresponding
two arms of the equivalent circuit.
5.2.4 The detailed procedure to be followed in the case of two output windings and one supply
winding is as follows
(a) Determine the kVA in each winding corresponding to the loading being considered.
(b) For the output windings W2 and W3, this is the specified loading under consideration;
deduce n2 and n3, where n is the ratio of the actual loading to the base kVA used in the
equivalent circuit.
(c) For the input winding W1 kVA should be taken as the vectorial sum of the outputs from
W2 and W3 windings, and the corresponding power factor and quadrature factor (sin φ)
deduced from the in-phase and quadrature components.
5.2.5 When greater accuracy is required, an addition should made to the above vectorial sum
of the outputs as follows:
Add to the quadrature component, to obtain the effective input kVA to windings W1,
b2
(output kVA from winding W2) x 100 x n2
n for each arm being the ratio of the magnitude of the actual kVA loading of the winding to the
base kVA employed in determining the network.
5.2.6 Apply the final formula of 2.1.5 separately to each arm of the network, taking separate
values of n for each arm as defined in 2.2.5.
5.2.7 To obtain the regulation between the input winding and either of the loaded windings,
add the separate regulations determined under 2.2.6 for the corresponding two arms, noting that
one of these may be negative. (Note that the summation is algebraic, but not vectorial).
Note: A positive value for the sum determined indicates a voltage drop from no-load to the loading considered while a
negative value for the sum indicates a voltage rise.
5.2.8 Repeat the operation described in 2.2.7 for the other loaded winding.
274 Manual on Transformers
5.2.8.1 The above procedure is applicable to auto-transformers if the equivalent circuit is based
on the effective impedances measured at the terminal of the auto-transformer.
5.2.8.2 In the case of input to two windings and load from one winding, the above procedure can
be applied if the division of loading between the two supplies is known.
W1 is a 66 kV primary winding,
W2 is a 33 kV output winding loaded at 2000 kVA having a power factor cos φ of 0.8
lagging, and
W3 is a 11 kV output winding loaded at 1000 kVA having a power factor cos φ of 0.6
lagging.
The following information is available, having been calculated from test data and is related to
a base kVA of 1000:
a31=0.32 b31=5.08
Applying the formula of 2.1.5 separately to each arm of the network we have for the regulation
of that arms alone:
For condition (a) - with output winding W2 fully loaded and W3 unloaded:
For condition (b) - with output winding W2 unloaded and W3 fully loaded:
1.1 After testing each transformer it shall be dispatched from the works ready for reassembly
of external components which are dismantled for facilitating transportation. According to
the transport facilities available and weight/ height restriction for the route, transformers are
transported either by rail, road or sea depending on the size of transformer. Power transformers
should be dispatched with external fittings dismantled and packed separately. However
distribution transformers can be transported in fully assembled condition.
1.2 Transformer tank is filled with oil or pure dry nitrogen/ air depending upon the transport
weight limitations. Dry air should be preferred due to safety of personnel entering inside the
Transformer. If nitrogen is used, the information shall be stenciled on the tank prominently. In
case the tank is filled with oil, sufficient space is left above the oil to take care of the expansion
of oil. This space is filled with pure dry air/nitrogen gas under atmospheric pressure. In case the
tank is filled with inert gas/nitrogen a positive pressure according to the manufacturer’s standard
practice and dew point of -50 deg C or better shall be maintained. The temperature, pressure
and dew point at the time of gas filling (reading taken after stabilization) shall be painted on the
transformer tank. External gas cylinders should be provided to make up any gas leakage during
transit for transformers having rating 50 MVA and above and voltage rating 132 kV and above.
279
280 Manual on Transformers
Note:
(i) Impact recorders are attached to the main body of the transformer during transportation to monitor the
shock and impact, which the transformer may be subjected to during transportation. The impact recorder
is a electronic or mechanical recording accelerometer whose main feature is its ability to record shock and
impact from three directions axial, lateral and longitudinal.
(ii) Check at factory that impact recorders have sufficient paper, battery life and memory capacity for the
expected duration of transport.
(iii) Mount the impact recorder as low as possible near the transformer centerline. Always keep the impact
recorder axis aligned with the transformer major axis. This provides the best possible recorder data (Refer
DIN EN 13011).
(iv) For transformers with a N2 gas/ dry air pressure of 0.3 PSI, the acceptable limits of dew point shall be as
under: (Source: Courtesy BHEL, Bhopal)
1.4 All external fitting such as Conservator, Buchholz relay, Dehydrating Breather, Turrets,
Bushings, Explosion Vent/ Pressure Relief Devices (PRDs), OLTC - Driving Mechanism and
Motor Operated Mechanism (MOM) Boxes, Marshalling Kiosks, Radiators, Rollers, Cooling
Fans, Pumps, Gasket etc., which are liable to damage in transit, shall be removed and packed
separately. All openings created on the tank by the removal of components arc blanked with
identifiable blanking plates & suitable gaskets. All openings on the fittings removed are also
closed with blanking plates & suitable gaskets.
1.5 When any internal parts like tap changers, etc., are removed for transportation, they are
dispatched in tanks filled with oil/inert gas or suitable measures taken so that they do not absorb
moisture.
• All fragile parts such as temperature indicators, oil level gauges, etc., shall be carefully
packed to avoid breakage in transit.
• All blanking plates, tank valve guards, etc., used exclusively for transport is to be
preserved in safe custody by the purchaser for future use.
1.6.1 Transformers may be transported by rail / road trailers depending on size of transformer,
destination, delivery time and the route limitations. In case of transformers where the weight and
dimensions of the main body exceed limits, special well wagons are employed. Detached parts
are packed/crated and normally dispatched along with the main body of the unit, so that all the
parts are received at the destination station with the unit.
1.6.2 Loading
1.6.2.1 Most of the transformer manufacturers have their own railway siding and transformers
are loaded at their works using their cranes. In cases where separate siding facilities are not
available, road tractor-trailers are used for the transport from works to loading railway stations.
Mobile cranes and railway cranes are also used for loading the units into the wagons. In the
absence of any crane facility, the transformers are unloaded from the trailers near the railway
track into a platform of adequate height built up of wooden sleepers. Jacks and pull lifts chain
pulley block of adequate capacity are used to slide the transformer over a pair of rails placed on
the sleeper platform bridging the trailer width in full. To prevent the trailer from toppling when
the transformer is moved to the platform the stage end of the trailer is supported by a sleeper
pack. From the platform the transformer is slid onto the wagon taking care to have the rails for
the full width of wagon. The rails are greased for easy movement. The rollers of the transformer
are removed before leaving the works. While providing a sleeper stage it should slightly be at a
higher level to allow for the increase in height of the trailer while the load is released due to the
springs getting relaxed.
16.3.1 Transformers should be lifted by jacking at the jacking pads provided for the purpose
and simultaneous use should be made of all such lugs or lifting bollards in order to avoid any
unbalance in lifting. Before lifting the complete transformer it should be ensured that all cover
282 Manual on Transformers
bolts arc tightened. Apart from the main lifting points designed to take the total weight of the
unit, the transformer has subsidiary lifting points suitable for particular components only. Care
must be taken to distinguish between them. It is advisable to use a spreader between slings so
that the lift on the hooks is in the vertical direction. The slinging angle is not to exceed 60°. Safe
loads of wire ropes and the multiplying factors to be used corresponding to the lifting angles are
furnished in Fig. 1. Gunnies are used on the slings to avoid metal contact and consequent damage
to the slings.
Sale load of wire ropes Multiplying factor for different lifting angles
Dia. of wire rope (mm) Safe load (Kg) Lifting angles Multiplying factor
8 600 0 1
12 1,300 20 1.015
16 2,300 40 1.065
20 3,500 60 1.155
24 5,000
28 7,000
32 9,000
36 11,000
40 14,000
44 17,000
56 24,500
64 33,500
70 40,000
1.6.3.2 Where it is necessary to use jacks for lifting, only the Jacking pads provided for the
Lifting angle
Slinging angle
purpose of jacking should be used. Jacks should never be placed under valves or cooling tubes
or stiffeners. Not more than two jacks should be operated at the same time. When two jacks are
being operated the opposite side of the transformer should be firmly supported by sleepers.
Jacks are also not to be left in position with load for a long time. The transformer should always
be handled in the normal upright position. During the handling operation care must be taken to
prevent overturning or even tilting.
1.6.3.3 Loading on the railway wagons is done as centrally as possible to distribute the weight
equally on all axles and wheels. Manufacturer’s drawing in this regard is to be referred to. It is
desired that the transformer be loaded longitudinally on the wagon. To prevent damage to the
transformer base, the unit is loaded on a row of sleepers or wooden planks placed on the wagon
floor.
1.6.4 Lashing
The transformer is lashed on all four sides by wire ropes or chain of adequate size and lightened
using turn buckles with locking facility. Wooden props are also used. After the movement of
the wagon for a short distance the tightness of the lashing is to be checked. When enroute
transhipment is involved, lashing is to be checked again.
1.7.1 Transformers may be shipped by road, where well developed roads exist & the route
conditions permit. Multi-axle tractor driven low-platform trailers are used for road transport.
Hydraulic trailers to be used for transportation of heavy Transformers, i.e., weighing more than
50 Tonnes including weight of trailer. The tractors are to have adequate hauling capacity and the
trailers loading capacity.
Fig. 2
WTi = Self weight of trailer
WP = Pay load 50 tonnes
Ra = Load in the front axle of tractor
Rb = Load in all the 3 axles of trailer
(Divide by 3 for axle load)
Rc = Load in all the 2 axles of this trailer (Divide by 2 for axle load) Take the
momentum at the points at Ra, Rb and Rc and solve the equations, to get Ra, Rb
and Rc.
In this case if we assume tractor and trailer of equal weight (i.e.) WTa = WTi; = 10 tonnes and
WP = 50 tonnes.
Ra = 5 tonnes axle load in front axle
Rb = 35 tonnes axle load in 2nd axle
Rc = 30 tonnes axle load in 3rd axle
Load per rear axle of the tractor = 35/3 = 11.66 tonnes Load per rear axle of semi-trailer = 30/2
Guidelines for Erection, Commissioning and Maintenance 285
= 15 tonnes
To limit the load per axle to 10 tonnes at the rear axle of trailer, the payload should not exceed
30 tonnes Otherwise the number of axles for the trailer should be increased.
1.7.2.2 Movement of the transformer shall be through the route surveyed for the purpose and no
deviation of the route shall be followed unless it is surveyed again.
1.7.3.1 Such of those bridges and culverts which require strengthening are strengthened by
adopting suitable measures like propping up using timber and steel in consultation with the
Highways Department. For uniform loading, chequer plates, M.S. plates, etc., are used. For
details refer Figs 3, 4 and 5. In some cases an alternative route by-passing such bridges and
culverts may be cheaper than propping up.
Fig. 5 Wooden sleeper stage platform built on river bed with the plates underneath
1.7.5 Movement
1.7.5.1 A pilot vehicle with all tools and tackles, jacks, sleepers, chequer plates, crowbars, etc.,
and sufficient trained staff should run in front of the vehicle. Red flags and danger lamps should
be exhibited at prominent places to warn traffic on the route.
1.7.5.2 The branches of avenue trees that are likely to foul the equipment should be cleared
while the load is moved. Electric utility power lines likely to foul should be switched off and
lifted temporarily / dismantled while the load is moved.
1.7.5.3 After moving the load for a short distance tightness of the lashing should be checked.
1.7.5.4 In the case of night halt or stoppage of the loaded trailer for a fairly long duration the
trailer should be supported either by sleepers or providing supporting jacks on all sides thus
releasing the load from the tyres. Danger lights should be displayed in the front and rear of the
vehicle.
1.7.5.5 For the normal running, it is desirable not to run the vehicle over 15-20 km per hour with
no load and 10-15 km with loads on good surfaced roads. For bad roads it is desirable to run the
vehicle at much lower speeds.
1.7.5.6 The brake system on the tractor-trailer has to be carefully operated whenever the vehicle
is running with load. While running over any bridge or culvert the vehicle should be run only
at a very slow speed. Long before the approach to the bridge the speed should be brought
down and the vehicle allowed to proceed over the bridge without creating any impact, which
is sometimes caused by applying brakes when running at high speeds. Till all the wheels of the
tractor-trailer are clear of the bridge, the speed should not be increased. Transportation should be
avoided during heavy rains.
1.7.5.7 In case of the vehicle getting locked up in a slipping soil, the safest procedure would be
to detach the tractor after the trailer had been anchored suitably by sleepers. The tractor may be
moved forward and anchored suitably with sufficient sleepers. The trailer can be pulled up by
winches in the rear of the tractor.
Guidelines for Erection, Commissioning and Maintenance 287
Water transport is the cheapest mode of transport. While ocean going ships are used for the high
seas, barges are used for inland navigation routes. Special care is to be taken for prevention
of rusting of parts and ingress of moisture like use of anti-corrosive paints, silica gel packing,
sealing using polythene covers etc. Packages should not be left on wharves for more than 2
weeks. Storing of heavy packing is to be done only in consultation with port authorities so that
the safety of the wharf is not endangered.
1.8.1 Loading
Usually the wharf cranes may not have sufficient capacity for handling very heavy packages.
Special floating cranes or cranes of ships are used for loading the packages from the wharf to
ships or barges. In the case of barges, special care is required to prevent overturning of the barge
at the time of loading. Packages are to be placed inside the hold. Decks of ships are not to be
used for keeping the packing during transport.
In cases where the substations are having adequate crane facility, the transformer is unloaded by
crane. Alternatively, mobile cranes are used. Where no crane facility is available a trench is dug
to a depth equal to height of the trailer platform and the transformer is slid to position. If this
also is not possible the transformer is unloaded into a sleeper platform and gradually lowered to
plinth level (Fig. 6 for guidance). The sleeper platform level is to be at a slightly higher level to
allow for the increase in height of the trailer while the load is released due to the springs getting
relaxed. Winches are to be used for putting the transformer into position.
Fig. 6
288 Manual on Transformers
A thorough external examination shall be made immediately on arrival of the transformer at site.
If any damage is suspected, open delivery is to be taken and a claim made against the carriers
in accordance with the terms of contract. The manufacturers and under-writers are also to be
informed about the details of inspection done jointly in carriers.
1.10.1.1 Packages arc to be opened carefully so that the tools used for opening do not cause
damage to the contents.
1.10.1.2 When the transformers are dispatched N2/ dry air filled, pressure shall be checked and it
should be ascertained whether there was any leakage of atmospheric air into the tanks. In case of
any leakage of N2/ dry air, dryness of insulation should be checked by dewpoint measurement
(clause 1.1.2) after fillingwith dry air/nitrogen and after a stabilization period of 12-24 hours.
If insulation is wet, the transformer has to be dried. If the pressure is positive and varies with
temperature of the surrounding air the seal can be taken to be effective.
1.10.1.3 When the transformer is dispatched filled with oil, oil level in main tank at the time of
receipt is to be verified by comparing the oil level before dispatch. Any shortage is to be duly
recorded in the documentation and intimated promptly to the supplier. A sample of oil shall be
taken from the bottom of the tank and tested to IS 1866. If the sample of oil does not meet the
requirements, the matter should be reported to the supplier along with insulation resistance
values of the various windings to earth.
1.10.1.4 Core Insulation Test (at 2.5 kV AC one minute withstand alternatively with 2.5 kV
Megger) shall be carried out to check insulation between Core (CC&CL) and Ground. (Not
applicable for Air Core Reactors). Core insulation value should be comparable with factory
value and generally more than 500 M Ohm.
1.10.1.5 Drums containing transformer oil which have been dispatched separately shall
beexamined carefully for leaks. All drums are dispatched filled up to their capacity and any
shortage should be reported,
1.10.1.6 In case of bushings, oil level shall be checked. The porcelain portion is to be checked
for any crack or chipping. The terminals should be checked for any bends.
1.10.1.7 Fragile instruments like oil level gauge, temperature indicator, etc. are to be inspected
for breakages or other damages.
1.10.1.8 Any damaged or missing components should be reported to the supplier within the
insurance liability period, so that the same can be investigated and shortage made up as per the
terms of contract.
Guidelines for Erection, Commissioning and Maintenance 289
1.10.1.9 Any paint damages are to be touched up after proper cleaning with wire brush, emery
and applying a coat of primer. Generally, manufacturers supply adequate quantity of finish paint
for such purposes.
1.10.2 Storage
1.10.2.1 After arrival at site, it is desirable to erect and commission the transformer with
minimum delay. In case this is not possible the transformer should be erected at its permanent
location with conservator and breather fitted, the transformer should be vacuum dried and
processed oil should be filled in the tank and oil condition to be monitored during long storage.
If this is also not possible, then, it is preferable that the tank containing core and coil be placed
under shed. The tank shall preferably be filled with processed oil up to core & winding level
with dry air/nitrogen filling above the oil. Gas pressure is to be monitored periodically.
1.10.2.2 Transformer/ Reactor should be kept in Dry air/ N2 filled condition for the maximum
period of 6 months including storage at works, transportation and storage at site. If the
transformer/ Reactor is to be stored at site with Dry air/ N2 filled condition, N2 pressure to be
monitored on daily basis so that chances of exposure of active part to atmosphere are avoided.
In case of drop in N2 pressure, dew point of N2 has to be measured to check the dryness of the
Transformer/ Reactor. If there is drop in dew point, fresh nitrogen need to be filled. Leaks are to
be identified and rectified and Nitrogen to be filled to the required pressure.
1.10.2.3 In case the transformer/ reactor is to be stored for more than 6 months, it needs to
be stored in oil filled condition. Processed oil to be filled which complies to the required
specification and ppm ≤ 10 ppm and BDV ≥ 60 kV. In case of storage of transformer in oil-filled
condition, the oil filled in the unit should be tested for BDV and moisture contents once in every
three months. The oil sample should be taken from bottom valve. If BDV is less and moisture
content is more than as given for service condition then oil should be filtered
1.10.2.4 The transformer shall never be stored in polluted areas likely to cause corrosion.
1.10.1.5 Equipment meant for indoor use, such as control panels should be stored indoor. Fragile
components are to be stored carefully.
1.10.2.6 Bushings, if not mounted on the transformer, should be stored in the cases under the
shed.
1.10.2.7 All packing shall be kept above ground by the use of supports so as to allow free
airflow underneath. It is preferable to store all loose parts under cover.
1.10.2.8 Transformer oil when received in drums shall be stored under cover. Drums should not
stand on end but are to be placed on their sides with the bung at 45° downward. (3-9 O’ clock
position)
1.10.2.9 If the accessories are to be stored for a long period they can be repacked. It is advisable
290 Manual on Transformers
to store the accessories; especially the electrically operated ones’ in a rain protected area and
packing list should be retained so that the contents of cases or crates can be checked at the end
of the storage period. Heaters for marshalling kiosks, etc., shall be kept energized.
1.10.2.10 While in storage, the gas pressure, oil samples, breather condition are to be checked
frequently.
2.0 INSTALLATION
When the erection work is to be carried out by the supplier under the contract agreement, the
supplier and the user shall prepare a schedule of the works to be carried out with specific period
for each item of work involved. All the assembly and erection drawings should be available at
site.
2.2 Precautions
2.2.1 As far as possible no work shall be done during rainy season to avoid moisture
absorption.
2.2.2 Extreme care must be taken to prevent any foreign material from being dropped into the
transformer. Workmen having access to the interior of a transformer should empty their pockets
of all loose materials. Any spanners or other tools used shall be securely tied so that they can be
recovered easily if accidentally dropped.
2.2.3 Fibrous cleaning materials shall not be used. The presence of loose fibres in suspension
in transformer oil can reduce its insulating properties.
2.2.4 All components dispatched separately shall be cleaned inside and outside before being
fitted.
2.2.5 If any internal temporary transportation braces are provided they are to be removed
without disturbing any permanent internal arrangements. Such parts should be clearly marked
on the transportation drawings.
2.3.1 Since all electrical installation shall comply with the requirements of the Indian Electricity
Act and Rules made thereunder, it is essential that they are complied with. The provisions of the
Factories Act and Rules are also to be complied with to the extent applicable.
Guidelines for Erection, Commissioning and Maintenance 291
2.3.1.1 All tools, tackles and other equipments required for the erection work may be arranged
at the site before the work is started. Generally the following items will be required.
(i) Lifting Equipment: Depending upon the transformer, crane of sufficient capacity will
be required. In the absence of crane facility, a derrick is erected and work carried out
using a chain and pulley block. Wire rope slings, D-shackles, etc. are also required.
(ii) Oil Purifier: A vacuum oil purifier of sufficient capacity provided with thermostatically
controlled heating and filtering facility is required. The following table may be used
as a guide for selecting the oil purifier capacity.
Note:
(a) For ODAF cooled Transformers, hot oil flow through the coil to be ensured during the oil circulation.
(b) In 765 kV AC & 500 kV HVDC Transformers and above rating, particle counting to be checked during oil
circulation. The procedure and interpretation shall be in accordance with the recommendation of CIGRE
report WG-12.17 - “Effect of particles on transformer dielectric strength”.
(c) All the hoses, filter machine to be thoroughly flushed before using them for oil circulation.
(d) All the oil tanks should be properly painted inside and sealed with breather provided to prevent entry of moisture.
(e) A higher vacuum filter with a vacuum of 0.1 torr or lower is to be used for a voltage class of 245 kV and above.
(iii) Vacuum Pump: A vacuum pump with a vacuum hose and other fittings capable of
producing a vacuum up to 759 mm mercury.
(iv) Oil Storage Tank: One or more oil tanks of sufficient capacity to store the entire
quantity of the transformer oil will be useful for filling from drums and also when
oil is received at site in tankers for transformers dispatched gas-filled. This will
reduce the time of filling.
(v) Pressure Vacuum Gauge: To read - 0.5 to + 0.5 kg /cm2 for checking inert gas
pressure.
(vi) Oil Testing Apparatus: Conforming to IS: 335
(vii) 5000/ 2500/ 1000 V motorized megger
(viii) Voltmeters, 0 to 500 V, 0 to 100 V range and 0 to 5 V range, milli-ammeter, low
power factor watt meter.
(ix) Set of spanners suitable for metric sizes and B.S. sizes.
(x) Set of drum opener, crowbar, pipes, hammer etc.
292 Manual on Transformers
(xi) Set of screwdrivers, cutting pliers, screw spanners and pipe wrench.
(xii) Clean cotton cloth and cotton waste.
(xiii) Electric hand lamp.
(xiv) 12 mm vinyl hose of approximate 10 m length for being used as an oil level
indicator during erection.
(xv) Brushes & spray gun with compressor for painting.
(xvi) PVC wires for connecting meters during testing.
(xvii) Set of tarpaulins of suitable size.
(xviii) Earth discharge rods.
The above is only a general list of tools, and measuring instruments etc., used for erection
of transformers. The capacity, sizes, etc., of each tool would depend on the type and size of
transformer.
2.3.2 The installation site shall have easy accessibility for inspection and routine maintenance
etc. Foundation for the transformer should have level floor strong enough to support the weight,
vibrations and prevent accumulation of water. The transformer foundation should be provided
with adequate oil soak pits and drains. Typical designs of such pits are shown in Fig. 7.
Fig. 7
Guidelines for Erection, Commissioning and Maintenance 293
2.3.3 In case of large and costly transformers, fire protection walls may be necessary on either
side of the transformer for isolating each transformer from the rest.
2.3.4 The transformer installation position shall be such that the breather, thermometers, oil
level indicators, diagram plates, etc., can be safely examined with the transformer energized.
It should also be possible to have access to the operating mechanism of on load / off circuit
tap changing equipment, marshalling box, etc. Sampling valve, drain valve, etc., shall be at
accessible and convenient locations, if need be through construction of raised platforms.
2.3.5 For outdoor transformers where rollers are not fitted, level concrete plinth with bearing
plates of sufficient size and strength can be adopted. The plinth shall be above the maximum
flood or storm water level of the site and of the correct size to accommodate the transformer in
such a way that no unauthorized person may step on the plinth.
2.3.6 Where rollers are fitted, suitable rail tracks shall be provided and when the transformer
is in the final position, the wheels shall be locked to prevent accidental movement of the
transformer.
2.4.1.1 The transformer tank containing the core and coil-assembly should be first placed in
the position selected for assembly.
2.4.1.2 In case the rollers are to be fitted, it should be ensured that the wheel shafts are well
greased and the wheels rotate freely. While fixing the rollers, the flanges should come on the
inner side of the rails. The transformer shall then be jacked up and the roller fitted to the
bottom frame. In some of the transformers, skid is provided in place of rollers.
2.4.1.3 All parts, gaskets, bushings, radiators and coolers etc., should be readily available in good
condition. The transformer oil required for filling must also be readily available.
2.4.1.4 In case special foundation bolts are supplied, these are to be used for arresting the
movement of the transformer, including anti-earthquake devices.
2.5 Oil
When oil is dispatched to site separately, it may be done in sealed steel / HDPE drums or
epicoated road tankers. At the time of filling the drums, it is ensured that the oil is filtered, clean
and dry.
2.5.1.1 The oil as received at site for filling and topping up in the transformer must comply with
IS 335 / IEC 60296/Customer specification for acceptance criteria. Many utilities have different
294 Manual on Transformers
specifications of oil (stringent than IS/IEC). Some Utilities prefer napthenic oil and others specify
inhibited oil. IEEMA has taken an initiative to standardize a common specification for oil to be
used by all Indian Utilities. Once IEEMA Specification on oil is published, CBIP Manual shall
adopt the same. For the present, extracts from IS 335 Oil Specifications are reproduced below
for reference.
2.5.1.2 The Oil Sample from the Transformer tank, after filling (new/unused) in tank before
commissioning should meet the following specifications as per IS 1866.
Guidelines for Erection, Commissioning and Maintenance 295
Note:
1. These properties are very sensitive to storage and processing, i.e., the temperature and vacuum of filtration, the
cleanliness of the processing system including filter machine, pipes, valves, cleanliness of transformer and its
cooling system, etc., Extreme care should hence he taken in these areas to achieve the values indicated above.
2. When unused oil has been filled in the lank then tests given against SI. nos. 7, 9, 10 & 11 in the above table are
important. Other parameters only form base data for future comparison.
3. Used oil shall meet the BDV and moisture content requirement given in the Table whereas other parametersmay
lie in between the above values and the limiting values given under cl. 2.5.1.3.
2.5.1.3 The recommended limits for mineral insulating oil filled in power transformers in
service (as per IS: 1866) are as follows:
296 Manual on Transformers
Note : Recondition/replace the oil if one or more of the above parameters are beyond the specified limits.
2.5.1.4 POWERGRID Specification of oil for 400 / 800 kV Transformers is different and is
given below for reference.
Guidelines for Erection, Commissioning and Maintenance 297
2.5.2 Precautions
2.5.2.1 Oil is easily contaminated. When sampling the oil and filling the oil in the tank, it is very
important to keep the oil free from contamination.
2.5.2.2 All equipment used in handling the oil must be clean and should be washed with
clean transformer oil before use. (The oil used for washing must be discarded). Particular
attention shall be paid to the cleanliness of bungs, valves and other points where the dirt or
moisture tends to collect.
2.5.2.3 Sampling and type of container for DGA, wherever specified, shall be as per IS: 9434 or
IEC: 600567.
298 Manual on Transformers
2.5.2.4 Flexible steel hose is recommended for handling insulation oil. Some kinds of synthetic
rubber hose are also suitable but only those known to be satisfactory should be used. Ordinary
rubber hose should not be used for this purpose as oil dissolves the sulphur from the rubber and
thereby gets contaminated. Proper flushing of hoses to be carried out before using them for oil
filtration and oil filling in the Transformer. Hose used for handling oil should be clean and free
from loose rust or scale.
2.5.2.5 Transformers must always be disconnected from the electricity supply system before the
oil level in the tank is lowered.
2.5.2.6 Oil must not be emptied near naked lights heater/fire, as vapour released is
inflammable.
2.5.2.7 Minute quantities of moisture (particularly in the presence of fibres or dust) lower the
dielectric strength of the oil. Therefore, to reduce the risk of condensation of the moisture entering
the oil, containers taken into a warm room shall not be opened until the entire body has attained
the same temperature as the room temperature. It is preferable not to mix oils from different
suppliers. However, if the oil-required to be mixed meet the requirements of IS: 335 and if these
are made from the same feed stock, these can be mixed.
Oil takes up moisture readily and its condition should always be checked before use. Oil of a muddy
colour is certain to be wet. Water and water-saturated oil are both heavier than dry oil and sink to the
bottom of any container. Samples shall, therefore, be taken from the bottom. Samples should not be
taken unless the oil has been allowed to settle for 24 hours, if from a drum or two / three days if from
a large transformer.
Dirt from the draw-off valve or plug should be removed. To ensure that the valve is clean, some
quantity of oil should be allowed to flow into a separate container before collecting samples for
testing. Samples shall be collected either in glass bottle (refer IEC 60567) or in stainless steel
bottle. Detailed sampling procedure for steel bottle is given in Annexure-III to this section. It
is recommended that: Oil sample for any of the major tests (BDV, PPM, Resistivity, Tan Delta,
DGA) must be taken from both top and bottom sampling valves and while drawing the sample
the corresponding top oil temperature must be furnished. The lesser of the values obtained from
the 2 samples shall be considered for decisions regarding BDV and resistivity, while the higher
values shall be reckoned for PPM, Tan Delta.
The drum should first be allowed to stand with the bung vertically upwards for at least 24 hours.
The area around the bung should be cleaned. A clean glass or brass tube long enough to reach to
within 10 mm of the lowermost part of the drum should be inserted, keeping the uppermost end
Guidelines for Erection, Commissioning and Maintenance 299
of the tube sealed with the thumb whilst doing so. Remove the thumb, thereby allowing oil to
enter the bottom of the tube. Reseal the tube and withdraw an oil sample. The first two samples
should be discarded. Thereafter, the samples should be released into a suitable receptacle.
2.6.1 Before filling oil in the tank, it should be tested to meet the requirements as IEC 60296/
IS 335 (with its latest amendments). In case the oil does not meet the requirement, it should be
processed and shall only be used when it meets the requirements.
2.6.2 For transformers dispatched gas filled, the filling of oil inside the tank is done under
vacuum. Transformers of high voltage rating (132 kV and above) have their tanks designed to
withstand full vacuum. Below 132 kV manufacturer’s instructions should be followed regarding
the creation of full or partial vacuum during filling the oil in the tank.
2.6.3 When filling a transformer with oil it is preferable that the oil be pumped into the bottom
of the tank through a good quality filter machine.
2.6.4 Some radiators may be suitable only for partial vacuum. No higher vacuum than as could
be withstood by radiators should be applied to such radiators type tanks even if the radiator
valves are closed. It should also be ensured that the bushings, tap changer board, relief vent
diaphragm, Buccholz relay, conservator, etc. are not subjected to full vacuum as these may not
designed for the same. (Specific guidelines from manufacturer may be followed)
Note: Now a days pressed steel radiators, bushings - condenser as well as porcelain, buchholz relay, conservator etc.
are designed for full vacuum and are readily available.
2.6.5 In case the transformer is provided with an on load tap changer of in-tank type, while
evacuating the main transformer tank, the diverter switch compartment must also be
evacuated simultaneously so that no undue pressure is allowed on the tap changer chamber.
While releasing vacuum, the tap chamber vacuum should also be released simultaneously.
For this one pressure equalizer pipe should be connected between main tank and tap changer.
Before the drying out is started all fittings except coolers and associated accessories shall be
fitted. The coolers, etc., can be conveniently fitted after the successful dry-out of windings and
insulation.
The process of drying out a transformer is one requiring care and good judgment. If the drying
out process is carelessly or improperly performed, great damage may result to the transformer
insulation through overheating etc.
In no case shall a transformer be left unattended during any part of the dry-out period.
Transformer should be carefully watched throughout the dry out process and also observations
shall be carefully recorded.
300 Manual on Transformers
When the transformer is dried out, it is necessary to ensure that the firefighting equipment is
available near the transformer.
2.7.1.1 The most practical method of drying out is by circulation of hot oil through a high
vacuum filter machine incorporating oil heater and vacuum chamber (or other oil cleaning and
moisture removing device). The vacuum pump of the filter machine should have the capacity
of creating vacuum as high as possible but not less than 710 mm of mercury. Where possible,
a vacuum pump can be connected to the tank top cover to keep the oil in tank under vacuum
consistent with tank suitability. This may speed up the drying out process. It is preferable to lag
or blanket the transformer tank to prevent loss of heat. Oil is drawn from the bottom and let into
Guidelines for Erection, Commissioning and Maintenance 301
the transformer at the top. This will remove any settled moisture/ impurities. After about 8-12
hours circulation in this manner, the cycle is reversed and oil is drawn from the top and fed at
the bottom.
2.7.1.2 The oil temperature as measured by the oil temperature indicator should be of the order
of 55°C. It should be seen that the oil temperature at the filter machine in no case exceeds 65°C.
The circulation is continued till the insulation resistance and oil samples tests are satisfactory.
2.7.1.3 Plot IR values taken at regular intervals against temperature readings. It will be observed
that in the beginning IR values drop down as the temperature goes up. The IR values will be low
till moisture is coming out of the insulation and start rising before steadying. A typical dry out
curve is shown in Fig. 8.
2.7.1.4 Measuring winding Tan delta also a criteria for knowing the dryness of the Transformer
insulation. During dry-out, winding Tan delta may be measured between different cycles to
check the effectiveness of Dry-out.
2.7.1.5 The heat can also be provided by short circuit heating method as mentioned as clause
Time in hours
Fig. 8 Typical dry-out curve
2.7.2.1 Hot air from external heaters is blown into the transformer after draining the oil, through
an opening in the bottom of the tank and is allowed to escape through an opening in the tank top
cover (Fig. 9). The speed of the air must not exceed 600 m per minute. The temperature of the
air is raised gradually to 55°C in the first 8 hours, 65°C in the second 8 hours, and 75°C-80°C in
the third 8 hours. In this method also, hourly readings of temperature and insulation resistances
are taken till steady values are obtained.
302 Manual on Transformers
Fig. 9
2.7.3.1 The transformer can also be heated up by short-circuiting the low voltage winding
and supplying at the high voltage terminals a reduced voltage. The supply voltage should be
maintained in such a way that the current in the windings does not exceed 70 per cent of normal
full load current and the oil temperature about 75°C. In this case, temperature of oil should
be measured at the bottom of the tank also. Constant watch is to be kept to ensure that the
temperature limits are not exceeded. The temperature of the windings which can be measured
by the following formula should in no case exceed 90°C :
T2 =R2/R1(235+T1])-235
where,
R1 = Initial resistance of the windings. This method should be used in conjunction with streamline
filter as described in clause 2.7.1.
2.7.4.1 This is the most effective method and the quickest too but cannot be applied in case
Guidelines for Erection, Commissioning and Maintenance 303
of transformers not designed for withstanding the vacuum pressure. The vacuum should be
drawn from the top of the tank connecting suitable pump to any valve fitted at the top of the tank.
Vacuum is applied after draining the oil. The transformer core and coil are heated externally by
the use of heater. Temperature at the tank wall to be of the order of 60-70 °C. Another method of
heating active part is to do hot oil circulation for 2-3 volumes and then drain oil immediately.
2.7.4.2 The leakage rate has to be less than 40 m bar-lit/sec- so as to get better vacuum during the
drying out process. After ascertaining that there is no leakage in the transformer from gaskets/
valves etc., pull out vacuum and keep the transformer under near absolute vacuum (1 torr or
less) for about 96 hours running the vacuum pump continuously. The duration of vacuum can
vary between 48 to 96 hrs. depending upon the dew point being achieved. Keep Vacuum machine
ON and collect condensate for measurement.
2.7.4.3 Then the vacuum is broken with dry nitrogen. The dew point of the inlet of nitrogen is
to be measured and will be of the order of - 50 °C or below. When the nitrogen comes to the
positive pressure of 0.15 kg/cm2, it is stopped and kept for 48 hours. Then the nitrogen pressure
is released and the outlet nitrogen dew point is measured. If the dew point is about -30 °C or
below then the dryness of transformer is achieved. If not again the transformer is taken for
vacuum treatment and then nitrogen is admitted as mentioned above and tested. The cycle to be
continued till dew point of -30°C or below is achieved.
2.7.4.4 Duration of vacuum cycle may vary between 48-96 hrs. Initially one or two nitrogen
cycles may be kept for 24 hrs. After that it may be kept for 48 hrs depending upon dew point
being achieved.
2.7.4.5 When condensate collection rate is less than 40 ml/hr for 24 hrs and Dew point of
Nitrogen is about -30 °C at outlet.
2.7.4.6 After completion of the drying of the transformer the following parameters are to be
checked.
(b) BDV and moisture content of the oil as per IS 1866 or as recommended by transformer
manufacturer
2.8.1 Coolers and tap changers are filled with clean dry oil. Oil samples are taken out from
them and tested. Further circulation of oil is carried out till the oil results are satisfactory and meet
the requirements as per IS 1866. It is advisable to carry out the circulation in the main tank and
selector switch/ diverter switch tank simultaneously to remove moisture from the tap changer
terminal board/diverter switch cylinder provided on the tank.
304 Manual on Transformers
2.9.1 Gaskets
2.9.1.1 Whenever blanking plates are removed to fix detached parts such as bushing turrets, etc.,
a new gasket shall be used while fixing the same. A set of new unused gaskets of correct size and
thickness is supplied with every transformer for this purpose.
2.9.1.2 Gaskets shall be stored in hermetically sealed containers in a cool place. They must be
protected from damp, oil and grease.
2.9.1.3 To make a gasketed joint, first clean the metal surfaces ensuring that they are free from
oil, rust scale, etc. Then a film of the special gasket adhesive if supplied by the manufacturer
may be applied to one of the surfaces. The gasket may be then stuck to the surface after the lapse
of a few minutes. The other metal surface may also be given a film of adhesive and placed over
the gasket. Both may then be tightened according to the special instructions of the manufacturers.
Some type of gasketed joints is shown in Fig. 10.
(a) Metal Fit Type: In this case the flanges are tightened uniformly till the two metals
touch each other.
(b) Ordinary Type: In this case the gasket should be uniformly compressed such that its
thickness comes down to above 60 per cent of its original thickness.
(c) Distance Piece Type: In this system the flanges are tightened uniformly till the upper
flange touches the metal piece welded to the lower flange.
2.9.2 Bushings
Plain oil-filled type bushings can either have its oil in communication with the main tank or
separately sealed. These bushings will be bulkier in appearance and used up to 110 kV.
Guidelines for Erection, Commissioning and Maintenance 305
Fig. 10
Fig. 11
2.9.2.2 Condenser type bushings are also of three categories, one is the SRBP type, resin
impregnated paper type (RIP) and the other is the oil impregnated paper condenser (OIP) type.
The last one is distinguishable by the presence of porcelain shell below the flange level.
2.9.2.3 The bushings shall be checked for any damage at the oil end as well as the porcelain
before fixing and shall be cleaned thoroughly. The bushings shall be lifted by using the lifting
eyes and soft manila ropes. Steel Wire ropes or slings shall not be used (Fig. 12). The line lead
of H.V. winding if coiled inside the transformer is drawn through the bushing using a string
when the bushing is lowered into position. The cable ferrule is fixed in position at the top of
the bushing brass tube. The lower end of the bushing shall be inspected through the inspection
cover for proper sealing. The line connection should be tight and should not strain the terminals.
Sufficient flexibility in the connection leads should also be provided to avoid mechanical stress
306 Manual on Transformers
Fig. 12
Guidelines for Erection, Commissioning and Maintenance 307
on the bushing. The shield barriers, if any shall be inspected through the inspection cover for
proper seating. The line connection should be tight and should not strain the terminals. The
arcing horns, if any, shall be in proper position as shown by the supplier in general arrangement
drawing.
2.9.3.1 Change over switch or link arrangement provided in a multi-ratio transformer has to be
checked for proper ratio.
2.9.3.2 Off-Circuit Tap Changer: The off-circuit tap changer forms an integral part of the
transformer. Since the operation is to be carried out from outside, the operating handle may at
times be dispatched separately. This has to be fitted as per manufacturer’s instructions. Care
has to be taken to have correct alignment of the handle. The actual position of tap changer is
confirmed when the ratio tests are done.
Before changing taps, isolate the transformer from supply on all windings. In no case should
the tap switch handle be left half way and unlocked to prevent damage due to inadvertent
operation.
2.9.3.3 On-Load Tap Changers: If the tap changer is dispatched separately from works, it is
to be fitted on the tank. Before mounting on the tank, the insulation resistance value of each
tap changer lead to earth should be measured and in case of low value, the cause should be
investigated. The leads from the tap changer are then connected to their respective position
on the terminal board provided on the tank. The tightness of all connections on the selector
switch and terminal board is to be ensured.
The tap changer is then to be filled with clean oil and drying out is to be carried out. Oil filling
and drying out is carried out simultaneously along with the transformer as explained earlier.
2.9.4.1 The cooling equipments and associated pipe work and fittings are to be thoroughly
cleaned and flushed with clean dry transformer oil before assembly. The pressure gauge,
differential pressure gauges, etc., if any are fitted in position. The cooler and associated pipe
work is then filled with clean dry oil keeping all the cooler circuit open, except the
transformer inlet and outlet valves. Air is released from all the pipe work during filling. The
oil is circulated through a filter press using the filter valves provided in the cooler inlet and
outlet branches.
The cooler control circuit is to be checked for correct operation in all positions of the selector
switch. Test push buttons are provided for checking of the working of motors individually. The
cooler system is then connected to the main tank by opening the tank inlet and outlet valves.
2.9.4.2 Cooling Fans: Cooling fans are mounted as per manufacturer’s instructions. The fans
are tested for insulation value and normal running before they are mounted.
308 Manual on Transformers
In the case of forced oil cooled transformer, oil pumps are provided for circulating the oil. The
pumps are dispatched separately after blanking both suction and delivery sides. The pump is
connected at the proper position as per the general arrangement drawing. New gaskets should
be used at the joints and the bolts tightened. The pipe work at the pump connection is done as
per the matching marks on the flanges to avoid undue stress on the flanges of the pump when the
bolts are tightened. In some pumps an air release plug is provided on the body. This plug should
be checked for tightness.
Oil flow meters are provided on the pipeline connecting the pump. The flow meter being a
delicate instrument is packed separately and sent. The flow meter should be taken out carefully
and mounted on the flange provided on the pipe connection. The mounting position should be as
per the outline general arrangement drawing.
In large transformers the radiators are sometimes separately mounted. In such cases there will be
a header each at top and bottom, which arc supported on frames. Flanges are provided on these
headers for fixing the radiators. Radiator valves are fitted to the headers and dispatched. The
end frames are to be erected first. The frames should be positioned correctly with respect to the
transformer. The distances between center lines of transformer and cooler should be strictly as
per the general arrangement drawings as otherwise the connecting pipe work will not match.
After erecting the end frames the top and bottom headers are mounted. The headers will have
to be properly leveled so that the connecting pipe work can be easily fixed. Then radiators are
fixed.
If the conservator is to be provided on the cooler the same may be mounted on it and all fittings
for the same attached.
The interconnecting pipe work may be done taking care to connect correct pieces at the correct
location. Usually expansion joints are provided in the pipeline connecting the transformer tank
to the cooler. Special care should be taken to see that these are installed correctly.
In the case of forced water-cooled transformers the oil to water shell tube heat exchangers
are dispatched separately and properly blanked. On receipt at site, it shall be checked whether
blanking is all right. If the blanking is found to be defective, the matter has to be referred to
the manufacturer. In such a case, moisture/rain water might have entered the heat exchanger
oil circuit and there might be rusting. It may be necessary to take out the different parts of heat
exchangers separately and clean them thoroughly and put them back.
The brackets for mounting the heat exchanger may be attached to the transformer first taking care
of the matching marks. The heat exchanger may then be mounted on the support in the correct
position after referring to the general arrangement drawing.
The oil pump, oil flow meter and the connecting pipes may be fixed after this, in the correct
position. In the water circuit the necessary water pipes may be connected. It is also to be made
Guidelines for Erection, Commissioning and Maintenance 309
sure that on the outlet side water is allowed to discharge freely without any obstructions. Usually
a water flow meter is placed on the outlet pipe to indicate that there is a positive water flow.
It is to be made sure that there is no restriction in the water outlet pipe as any obstruction in
this pipe will increase the pressure in the water circuit and may result in the water pressure
exceeding the oil pressure and creating leakage of water into oil circuit, which is detrimental to
the transformer.
The heat exchanger oil circuit is sealed from the water circuit with special seals and the circuit
is pressure tested at the supplier’s works to make it absolutely sure that there is no leakage. The
sealing should not be tempered in any manner, as it is detrimental to the transformer. If there is
any doubt about this sealing, the matter should be intimated to the manufacturer.
2.9.5 Conservator
2.9.5.1 Conservator, where fitted, should be assembled with its pipe work, etc., making sure
that all gasketed joints are oil-tight and the pipe work is clean and free from moisture. The
mechanism of the float type oil gauge inside the conservator might be locked to prevent damage
during transit. After placing the conservator in position, it should be released by turning the
locking belt in the direction indicated on the plate.
2.9.5.2 While topping up oil in the transformer, it should be ensured that oil is filled to a level
indicated by the oil gauge on the conservator in commensurate with the filling oil temperature.
2.9.5.3 Procedure for mounting air cell and oil filling inside the conservator.
Set up the air cell inside the conservator. Care should be taken to see that the hooks on air cell are
properly engaged in the brackets provided inside the conservator.
Inflate the air cell at a pressure as shown in the instruction plate (DO NOT APPLY EXCESS
PRESSURE AS IT MAY DAMAGE THE AIR CELL) through the breather connection pipe.
Follow the instructions given in the Instruction Plate fixed on the transformer.
Ensure that there is no leakage.
The conservator with Air Cell is pressure tested and dispatched from the factory at a slightly
positive pressure. Confirm that there is no oil leakage.
Fix three numbers air release valves on the conservator.
Keep air release valves open. Fix air filling adapter on breather pipe and inflate the air cell at an
air pressure indicated on the INSTRUCTION PLATE affixed on the transformer and hold air
pressure.
Open the air release valves and start oil filling from the bottom filter valve of the transformer.
• Observe the air release valves and as soon as oil starts overflowing, close the air
release valves one by one. Stop oil filling when all air release valves are closed.
• Remove the air-filling adapter.
• Continue oil filling and observe the Magnetic Oil Level Gauge (MOG)
• Stop the filling when the needle of MOG shows the level corresponding to the ambient
temperature at the time of filling.
• Fix silica gel breather.
Caution:
• Do not open any of the air release valves after completion of oil filling. If air release
valve is opened, air will enter and oil level will drop.
• The plain oil level gauge on the end cover of the conservator should indicate full oil
level always. If air enters the conservator, it can be seen by a fall in the oil level in
plain oil level gauge.
• The plain oil level gauge should be monitored on regular basis.
2.9.6 Buchholz Relay
2.9.6.1 The Buccholz is checked for correct functioning of the mercury switches by injecting air
through the test petcock when full of oil. When mounting on the pipe work, the correct direction
is maintained with the help of arrow provided. The angle of inclination is also to be checked
and should be between 3 to 7°. The gas release pipe, if provided is to be connected to the top
petcock. In service the top petcock should be open and gas release pipe should be full of oil.
When the gas is to be collected through the gas release pipe, initially the oil will flow out and
then the gas can be collected.
Guidelines for Erection, Commissioning and Maintenance 311
2.9.7.1 The breather pipe work shall be properly cleaned. The oil level in the oil seal at the
bottom should be filled to the correct level with transformer oil. Any oil that might have over
flown should be wiped off. It is to be ensured that the breathing hole at the bottom of the seal is
not blocked by dirt, etc. and silica gel to be filled into the breather is dry.
2.9.8.1 PRD: Mount PRD as per manufacturer’s leaflet and also the G.A. drawing of transformer.
Check operation of alarm/ trip contacts.
2.9.8.2 Explosion Vent: The temporary cover, which is provided over the explosion vent flange
on the tank cover, should be removed and the explosion vent fitted with suitable gaskets. Care
being taken to ensure that the top diaphragm with its gaskets makes an airtight joint. As the
top diaphragm is sent blanked from works, the blanking plate shall not be removed till the oil
level inside the transformer comes above the tank cover. The fixing can be done after vacuum
application.
2.9.9.1 Before installing, the accuracy of the instrument shall be checked by hot oil or water
bath. The switches are adjusted to make contact at the desired temperature depending upon the
site conditions, i.e., ambient temperature, loading conditions, etc. The check is done through hot
oil bath.
2.9.9.2 The capillary tube is protected adequately to withstand all normal handling. It should not,
however, be bent sharply or repeatedly and should be supported by clips to prevent sagging. On
no account it must be cut.
2.9.9.4 The connection of the winding temperature indicator C.T. is made to the thermometer
pocket as per instructions given on the WTI Terminal Board.
2.9.10.1 It is not advisable to remove the bushing CTs unless situation warrants for the same.
In such cases great care shall be taken in handling current transformers. Current transformer
should be kept flat at all time. If it is not handled properly, it will deform in shape resulting in an
increase in excitation current. All C.T. Secondary terminals should be short circuited or loaded
before energizing the transformer. This will prevent excessive voltage developing across. C.T.
secondary, which can damage the C.T and be a hazard if touched.
312 Manual on Transformers
Final topping up is now done up to a level in conservator commensurate with filled oil temperature.
Any other work such as wiring of various alarm/trip contacts, fan motors, pump motors and other
apparatus, earthing of neutral and tank is also to be completed. The interposing valves between
the radiators and the tank are opened. Tank surface is retouched with paint wherever required
and transformer is made ready for the commissioning tests.
If the foregoing instructions have been carefully followed, the transformer can now be safely put
into service after pre-commissioning tests.
3.1 Tests
3.1.1.1 The ratio shall be checked on all taps and between all the windings and the results should
tally with the manufacturer’s factory test results. Preferably Transformer Automatic Turns Ratio
Meter (TTR) should be used. In case of OLTC, continuity during tap change is to be ensured.
This is best done by applying single phase voltage on each HV winding in turn and observing
variations of LV voltage at the instance of diverter operation by using analogue voltmeter. Break
will be indicated by any major deflection of the analogue meter towards zero.
3.1.2.1 Kelvin Bridge meter or automatic winding resistance measurement kit (ohm meter,
preferably 25 A kit) should be used for the measurement of resistance. Tapped winding resistance
shall be measured at all tap positions. Pre-commissioning values are to be compared with factory
values after applying temperature correction factors.
3.1.3.1 IR values between windings and between windings to earth are checked; while checking
these values no external lines, lightning arrestors, etc., should be in circuit. Bushings are
thoroughly cleaned before taking IR values. A 5000 / 2500 /1000 volts megger preferably motor
operated should be used for measuring IR values. One minute and 10 minute IR values can be
taken to find out the polarization index also. (PI = R600/R60) Care should be taken that the lead
wires of the megger do not have joints.
Note Now a-days digital meters are also available in the market which can read Polarisation Index (PI) directly and
compensate for magnetic interference.
Guidelines for Erection, Commissioning and Maintenance 313
3.1.4.1 Magnetizing current may be measured using single-phase 230 volts supply for each
phase individually and compare the results with manufacturer’s factory test results. If the test
results at the factory are available with 3 phase supply then magnetizing current at site may also
be measured using 3 phase 415 volts supply. It is recommended to measure magnetizing current
at 10 kV for Transformers having voltage rating in the range of 400 kV and 800 kV
Note: Measurement of magnetizing current is a standard feature available in most of the available Automatic C &Tan
Delta Test kits.
3.1.5 C and Tan Delta I Power Factor Measurement of Transformer Windings and
Bushings
(a) For Transformer windings, measurements shall be done after opening the jumpers and
isolating the transformer from other equipment and the ground.
(b) The test kit should be suitable to work in charged switchyard environment, i.e.,
induction suppression unit should be provided.
(c) Test modes shall be selected as below : Bushings
UST mode between HV and test tap.
Windings
(i) Between two windings - UST mode
(ii) Between winding to Earth- GSTg mode with other winding (s) guarded.
(iii) Between HV to earth in GST mode for comparison of test results taken in (i) & (ii)
above
Notes
While carrying out the test, all 3 phases of the same winding are to be shorted to compensate/nullify the effect
of winding reactance.
The bushing porcelain and test tap are to be properly cleaned before the commencement of test.
Pre-commissioning values are to be compared with factory values after applying temperature correction
factors.
Tan Delta/ Power Factor values should be more frequently monitored if faster deterioration trend is observed.
3.1.5.1 Frequency Response Analysis (FRA)- Measures mechanical movement of windings
and core during transit or in operation.FRA to be carried out at site in same tap position where
it was measured at factory to have better interpretation. Normally, it is preferred to have FRA
signatures in extreme and nominal tap position. These signatures also act as base signatures for
any further measurement to be carried out during operation.
3.1.6 Tap Changer
3.1.6.1 The sequence of operation of the tap changers shall be checked. Check should be made
for:
3.1.7.1 Check whether the Buccholz relay is mounted at an angle by placing a spirit level on the
top of the relay. Confirm that the relay does not operate when pumps are switched on in forced
oil cooled transformers. Buccholz relay operation for alarm and trip are checked by injecting air
through the test petcock (For transformers with ATMOSEAL conservators relay may be tested
either by putting in test position or by draining oil from relay after closing valves from either
sides).
3.1.8.1 The float level of the oil level indicator is moved up and down between the end positions
to check that the mechanism does not stick at any point. The low oil level alarm of the oil gauge
shall be checked. This can only be checked before installation.
3.1.9.1 The contacts of WTI and OTI for alarm and trip are checked and set at required
temperatures depending upon ambient temperatures and loading conditions.
3.1.10.1 It shall be checked that the specified number of fans are mounted on radiators as per
general arrangement drawing. IR values and settings for operation of fan motors and oil pumps
are checked. Check also that the direction of rotation of fans and pumps is correct.
3.1.11.1 The wiring from various accessories to marshalling box shall be checked.
3.1.12 Oil
3.1.12.1 Oil samples from top and bottom of main tank are tested as per IS: 1866 (table given in
clause 2.5.1). DGA tests are to be done to obtain benchmark before charging, one month after
charging, three months after charging, and thereafter every year.
3.1.12.2 Oil of diverter switch should be checked for BDV at the time of commissioning and
subsequently yearly or 5000 operations, whichever is earlier.
(a) All oil valves are in correct positions, closed or opened as required.
(b) All air pockets are cleared.
(c) Thermometer pockets are filled with oil.
Guidelines for Erection, Commissioning and Maintenance 315
(d) Oil is at correct level in the bushings, conservator, diverter switch and tank etc.
(e) Earthing connections are done.
(f) The colour of silica gel and oil in the breather cup.
(g) Arcing horn gaps on bushings (where provided) are properly adjusted.
(h) Heaters in cubicles, conservator, etc., where provided should be checked.
(i) To check alarm/trip contacts of all accessories, instruments flow meters, differential
pressure gauges etc.
(j) In the case of water cooled transformers, the pressure gauge readings on both water
and oil sides to confirm that the water pressure is less than the oil pressure. The oil and
water flow should not be less than that specified.
If all the above tests/ checks are found satisfactory, allow a settling time of at least 24 hours for
oil and release air from all venting points. Now the transformer can be energized after setting
the protective relays to the minimum extent possible. Wherever possible, the voltage should be
built up in steps. Any abnormality during commissioning such as vibration of radiator parts,
hum etc., should be observed. After a few hours of energisation at no load, the transformer shall
be switched off. The Buccholz relay should be checked for collection of air/ gas. Abnormalities
noticed should be corrected. All protective relays should be reset to normal values. Transformer
can now be re-energized and loaded gradually.
4.1.3 Records must be kept giving details of any unusual occurrence and also if any test results
taken.
4.1.4 The principal objective of maintenance is to maintain the insulation in good condition.
Moisture, dirt and excessive heat are the main causes of insulation deterioration and avoidance
of these will in general keep the insulation in good condition.
4.1.5 No work should be done on any transformer unless it is disconnected and isolated from
all external / energized circuits, and all windings have been solidly earthed.
4.2.1 Transformer oil readily absorbs moisture from the air. This reduces the dielectric strength
of the oil. It is also reduced by solid impurities present in the oil. Care should be taken that
moisture does not penetrate inside the transformer.
4.2.2 Much of the mechanical strength of paper and-pressboard comes from the long chain
cellulose polymer. Although temperature is a major factor, Oxygen and water clearly have a
significant effect on the degradation of cellulosic material (Kraft paper). It is seen that moisture
is formed in service-aged transformers due to thermal ageing, which results in lower degree of
polymerization (DP) indicating weakening of mechanical strength of paper.
CIGRE WG A2.18 – Life Management Techniques for Power Transformers shall be referred.
4.3.1 Oil
4.3.1.1 For maintenance of oil reference may be made to “IS 1866: Code of Practice for
Electrical Maintenance and Supervision of Mineral Insulating Oil in Equipment” which gives
recommendations in detail for the maintenance of insulation oil. A few short notes on the subject
are given below:
The oil level should be checked at frequent intervals and any excessive leakage of oil investigated.
There may be slight loss of oil by evaporation; this need cause no concern if the tank is topped
up at regular intervals.
All leaks should be repaired as quickly as possible so as to avoid possible trouble caused by low
oil level.
Oil for topping up should comply with IS 335 / IEC 60296: New insulating oils and should
preferably be from the same source as the original oil because the oil refined from different
crudes may not be completely miscible and may separate into layers. Furthermore, there may
Guidelines for Erection, Commissioning and Maintenance 317
be a greater tendency to form acidity or sludge in a mixture than in oil from a single source of
supply. Used oil shall not be mixed. New oil may be added as make up only, not exceeding about
10 per cent.
Samples of the oil should be taken at regular intervals preferably half yearly and tested for DGA
and oil parameters.
It may be mentioned that the dielectric strength does not give a true indication of the deteriorated
condition of the oil. Even oil, which is highly deteriorated, may give a high dielectric strength, if
dry. Normal methods of oil purification only maintain the dielectric strength, but do not improve
the deteriorated condition of the oil. It is, therefore, advisable not to rely solely on the dielectric
strength of the oil by periodic tests. In addition to chemical tests other tests as given in Clause
2.5.1 should also be carried out. If the dielectric strength is below, the recommended limit, the
oil should be reconditioned by passing it through either a centrifugal separator or a filter. After
reconditioning, the breakdown voltage should be more than 50 kV r.m.s. across a standard gap
(2.5+0.05 mm apart) and other parameters to be tested as per clause 2.5.1 (IS 1866).
Other Oil parameters play important role for healthy operation of the transformer. In case any of the
parameters like resistivity, IFT reaches the limiting value given in clause 2.5.1 (IS 1866), oil should
be monitored more frequently and in case the values continue to deteriorate, a decision regarding
change of oil is required to be taken.
It may be noted that reconditioning by vacuum filtration only improves BDV, moisture content
and removes dust, dirt suspended material etc. from oil. This process does not improve any other
parameters of oil and will tend to retard the process of deterioration of oil. Other methods may
have to be followed to improve resistivity, acidity etc. In such a case it is better to change the oil
and the old oil may be sent to an oil refinery for reclaiming it.
4.3.2 Rollers
4.3.2.1 Alter a transformer has been in service for a long period, rollers should be examined
carefully. They should be greased and rotated to see that they turn freely. Rollers should also be
inspected for overheating when moved on tracks, during initial erection.
4.3.3.1 The transformer tank and other parts should be inspected periodically for any rust or and
oil leak. Rusted portions, if any, should be cleaned thoroughly and repainted with proper paints.
Transformer should be completely painted at proper intervals. If any leak is found, it should be
investigated. If it is due to defective welding, the same should be rectified after consulting the
manufacturer. Leaking joints can be rectified by tightening the bolts to the correct pressure or by
replacing the gaskets.
4.3.4.1 It is recommended that the core and winding be removed from the tank for visual
318 Manual on Transformers
inspection as per time schedule given in inspection table. The windings should be examined to
ensure that no sludge has been deposited blocking the oil ducts. Any loose nuts and bolts should
be tightened. On transformers with bell type tank, the inspection of core and coil can be done
by lifting the tank. Inspection of core and coil assembly of transformers with conventional type
tank has to be done with extreme care so as not to damage the insulation structure which might
have become brittle due to long service life of transformer
4.3.4.2 Before lifting the core and winding from the tank, it is usually necessary to disconnect
the windings from the bushings or cable boxes inside the tank to disconnect the off-circuit tap
switch handle or leads of the on-load tap changer and to remove any earthing strips between the
core clamps and the tank.
4.3.4.3 The core and winding must be removed with great care. It should be placed under
cover and in a dry place.
4.3.5 Bushings
4.3.5.1 The bushings should be inspected for any cracks or drippings of the porcelain at regular
intervals and kept free from dust and dirt. In location where special and abnormal conditions
prevail, such as sand storm, salt deposits, cement dust, oil fumes etc., bushings should be cleaned
at more frequent intervals.
4.3.6.1 The sealing arrangements for filling holes should be checked each year. When screwed
plugs are sealed with a bituminous compound, the compound should be examined for cracks. If
the compound has cracked it should be replaced as the cracks may lead to an accumulation of
water around the plug. Gasketed joints should be examined and tightened whenever required.
4.3.7.1 All external connections should be tight. If they appear to be blackened or corroded, the
same can be cleaned or should be replaced, if required.
4.3.8.1 Conservators are so arranged that the lower part acts as a sump in which any impurities
entering the conservator will collect. A valve/plug is fitted at the lowest point of the conservator
for draining and sampling. The inside of the conservator should be cleaned every two to three
years. A removable end is generally provided for this purpose.
4.3.8.2 The oil level indicator should be kept clean. Generally the oil level is visible through a
transparent material. In case of breakage immediate replacement is essential. When conservator
is stripped for cleaning, the mechanism of the oil gauge should be cleaned.
Guidelines for Erection, Commissioning and Maintenance 319
4.3.9.2 The level in the oil seal must be maintained at the level marked in the cup.
4.3.10.1 Routine operation and mechanical inspection tests should be carried out at one and two
yearly intervals respectively.
4.3.10.2 During operation if gas is found to be collecting and giving alarm, the gas should be
tested and analysed to find out the nature of fault. Sometimes, it may be noticed that the gas
collected is only air. The reasons for this may be that trapped air if any is getting released or due
to leakage of the suction side of the pumps. The trapped air is released in initial stages only when
vacuum is applied during filling of oil. The internal faults can be identified to a great extent by
chemical analysis of collected gas.
4.3.10.3 Buccholz relay may also give alarm/trip signal due to the oil level falling below the
required level.
4.3.11.1 The diaphragm, which is fitted at the open end of the vent should be inspected at
frequent intervals and replaced, if damaged. Failure to replace the diaphragm quickly may allow
the ingress of moisture which will contaminate the oil. If the diaphragm has broken because of
a fault in the transformer an inspection must be carried out to determine the nature and cause of
the fault.
4.3.12 Gaskets
4.3.12.1 Gaskets sometimes shrink during service. It is, therefore, necessary to check the
lightness of all bolts fastening gasketed joints. The bolts should be tightened evenly round the
joints to avoid uneven pressure. Leaking gaskets should be replaced at the earliest opportunity.
4.3.13 The pipe work should be inspected at least once a year. Leaks may be due to slack
unions, which should be tightened, or to badly seated joints requiring the pipes to be aligned and
joints remade.
320 Manual on Transformers
4.3.14.1 At each yearly maintenance inspection, the level of oil in the pockets holding
thermometer bulbs should be checked and the oil replenished, if required. The capillary tubing
should be fastened down again if it has become loose. Dial glasses should be kept clear and if
broken, replaced as soon as possible to prevent damage to the instrument. Temperature indicators
should be calibrated with standard thermometer immersed in hot oil bath if found to be reading
incorrectly.
4.3.15.1 There are variety of coolers. For radiator type coolers, maintenance primarily consists
of replacing damaged elements, cleaning the outer surface to remove settled dust, repainting
etc.
4.3.15.2 Fan blades are cleaned to remove dust; bearings of the fan motors should be lubricated
occasionally. Greases should not be added while the motor is running. For other coolers,
manufacturer’s instructions should be followed.
4.3.16.1 Since all on-load tap changers are not of the same design and construction, special
instructions of manufacturer’s should be followed. However, a few points are enumerated.
(a) Diverter Switch: The maintenance primarily consists of servicing of diverter switch
contacts, checking the oil level in the diverter switch chamber, and replacement of
diverter switch oil when the same becomes unsuitable for further service.
(i) Do not allow dirt to accumulate between contact rings of notching controller.
(iv) If the contacts of contactors are silver faced, no touching up be ever done, if any
is worn out, it should be replaced. Copper contacts may be lightly touched up
with a file when they become rough. The pole faces of electromagnet must be
kept clean.
(v) Do not oil/grease the contact surface of radial multi-contact switches, unless a special
contact lubricant is used. The space between the rings should be cleaned occasionally.
If necessary, a few drops of Benzene be used.
(c) Selector Switch: The contacts do not make/break current. As such, the wear is only due to
mechanical movement of moving contacts. These may be inspected once in 2/3 years.
Guidelines for Erection, Commissioning and Maintenance 321
4.3.17 Spares
4.3.17.1 It is a healthy practice to have essential spares like one number of each type of bushings,
one thermometer, one cooling fan, pump, buchholz etc., for each group of similar transformer.
Suppliers’ recommendations may also be considered in this connection.
4.3.18.1 The frequency of inspections should be determined by the size of the transformer.
Local climatic and atmospheric conditions will also influence the inspection schedule. Use
Annexure I as a guide for determining the inspection schedule.
4.3.19.1 Transformers fitted with conservator oil preservation system (COPS)/ diaphragms are
recommended for preservation of Transformers in de-energised condition. Suitable cautions to
be put in placing advising to open the valves before energizing the transformer. Heaters in MB
should be kept ON. Oil level in the conservator should be monitored. (Low oil level could be
indicative of rupture in air cell of COPS (Conservator Oil Preservation System).
4.3.19.2 Following checks to be followed while the transformer is kept for long storage in de-
energised condition :
(A) Quarterly
• Open the valves between tank and radiator, and run the oil pumps for two hours.
• DGA
(C) Yearly
Annexure I
Table 1 Recommended Maintenance Schedule for Transformers of Capacities
Up to 10 MVa & 33 kV
2 Daily Position of tap switch air cell Oil level glass to indicate If level drops, check and
conservator full. re-commission air cell.
3 Fortnightly Dehydrating breather Check that air passages If silicagel is pink, change
are clear. Check colour of by spare charge. The old
active agent charge may be reactivated
for use again.
4 Monthly (i) Oil level in transformer. Check transformer oil If low, top up with dry oil.
(ii) Connections level. Check tightness. Examine transformer for
(iii) Explosion vent Check for cracks/ damages. leaks. If loose, tighten,
(iv) Diaphragm Check for any oil spillage. Replace if cracked.
(Pressure relief device)
5 Quarterly Bushings Examine for cracks and Clean or replace. Tighten,
dirt deposits Check for if required
external connections
6 Half yearly (i) Non-conservator transformer. Check for moisture under Improve ventilation,
(ii) Cable boxes, gasket joints, cover. Inspect. maintenance of breathers to
gauges and general paint work be ensured. Take remedial
measures.
7 Yearly (i) Oil in transformer Check for dielectric Take suitable action to
(ii) Earth resistance Strength and water restore quality of oil.
(iii) Relays, alarms, their circuits, etc. content. Check for acidity Take suitable action if
and sludge. < 1 ohm earth resistance is high.
Examine relay and alarm Clean the components and
contacts, their operation, replace contacts and fuses
fuses, etc. Check relay if necessary, Change the
accuracy, etc. setting, if necessary,
8 5 Yearly Non-conservator transformers Internal inspection above Filter oil regardless of
core. condition.
9 10 Yearly Overall inspection Wash by hosing down with
including lifting of core clean dry oil.
and coils.
C& tan delta of bushings value should be less Replace based on test
than 0.007, rate of rise result
of C & tan δ to be less
than 0.001/ year
Checking of WTI, OTI pockets Check presence of oil Top up if required
Calibration of WTI.OTI Checking
of operation of buchholz Relay
Yearly (i) OLTC Oil Check for dielectric Filter or replace based
(or earlier if), the strength (BDV) on lest results.
transformer can and water content
conveniently be (moisture)
taken out for
checking). (ii) Disconnecting Chamber Check BDV of oil Replace oil in
disconnecting chamber
if BDV < 50 kV
(v) Surge diverter and gaps. Examine for cracks Clean or replace.
and dirt deposits.
(vi) Relays, alarms, their circuits Examine relay and Clean the components
etc. alarm contacts, their and replace contacts
operation, fuses, etc. and fuses, if necessary.
Check relay accuracy Change the setting, if
etc. necessary.
(vii) Earth resistance — Take suitable action; if
earth resistance is high.
5. SOS (In case of LV tests like ratio, winding resistance Test results to be If major deviations
any protection at all taps position, c & tan delta, compared with pre- found then specialized
tripping due to magnetizing current and magnetic commissioning test tests like FRA, FDS,
internal fault or balance, results PD tests to be carried
after any major out in consultation with
maintenance manufacturer.
work)
6. 10 Yearly Life assessment test Furan measurement Will help decision
and calculated Degree making for taking up
of Polymerization any major refurbishment
action on transformer.
Notes
SI. No. 1& 2 are in purview of Operation staff whereas the rest to be taken care of by maintenance staff.
With respect to on-load tap changers, the manufacturer’s recommendation should be followed.
The silica gel may be reactivated by heating it to 150 to 200 degree C.
Every time the drying medium of breather is changed, oil seal should also be changed.
No work should be done on any transformer unless it is disconnected from all external circuits and the tank and
all windings have been solidly earthed.
In case of anything abnormal occurring during service, maker’s advice should be obtained, giving him complete
particulars as to the nature and the extent of occurrence, together with the name plate particulars in order to
assist identification.
In case of any through fault seen by the transformer or any major failure, SFRA to be measured and results to
be compared with previous base signatures.
Guidelines for Erection, Commissioning and Maintenance 325
Incorrect voltage Improper ratio Supply Change terminal board connection or ratio adjuster position
voltage abnormal to give correct voltage. Change tap connections or readjust
supply voltage.
326 Manual on Transformers
Audible internal Isolated metallic part The source should be immediately determined. Make certain
arcing and radio that all normally grounded parts are grounded, such as the
interference clamps and core.
Loose connections Same as above. Tighten all connections.
Low liquid level, Maintain proper liquid level.
exposing live parts
Bushing flashover Lightning Provide adequate lightning protection.
Dirty bushings Clean bushing porcelains, frequency depending on dirt
accumulation.
Mechanical troubles
Leakage Foreign material in threads. Make tight screw joints and or gasket joints.
through screw Oval nipples Poor threads
joints Improper filler Improper
assembly
Leakage at gasket Poor scarfed joints Make tight screw joints or gasket joints.
Insufficient or uneven
compression Improper
preparation of gaskets and
gasket surfaces.
Leakage in welds Shipping strains, imperfect Repair leaks in welds.
weld.
Pressure relief Improper assembly. Replace diaphragm. Inspect inside of pipe for evidence of
diaphragm Mechanical damage. rust or moisture. Be sure to dry out transformer if there is
cracked. a chance that drops of water may have settled directly on
windings or other vulnerable locations, as oil test may not
always reveal presence of free water.
Pressure-relief Internal fault In conservator Check to see that valve between conservator and tank is open
diaphragm type transformers-obstructed and that ventilator on conservator is not blocked. Make certain
ruptured oil flow or breathing. In gas- that relief valve functions and that valve discharge lines are
seal transformer-obstructed open. Liquid level should be adjusted to that corresponding
pressure relief valve. In to liquid temperature to allow ample space for expansion of
sealed transformers -liquid liquid.
level too high.
Moisture Improper or insufficient Make sure that all ventilator openings are free.
condensation Ventilators
in open type
transformers and air
filled compartments
Moisture Cracked diaphragm See remedies above for cracked and ruptured diaphragms.
condensation Moisture in oil Filter oil
in scaled
transformers.
Audio noise Leaky gaskets and joints. Make certain all joints are tight. Tighten loose parts. In some
Accessories andexternal cases parts may be stressed into resonant state. Releasing
transformer parts are set pressure and shimming will remedy this condition.
into resonant vibration
giving off loud noise.
Guidelines for Erection, Commissioning and Maintenance 327
Rusting and Abraded surfaces and Bare metal of mechanical parts should be covered with
deterioration of paint weathering grease.
finish
Fractured metal or Unusual strains placed on Cables and bus bars attached to transformer terminals should
porcelain parts of terminal connections be adequately supported. In the case of heavy leads, flexible
bushings connections should be provided to remove strain on the
terminal and bushing porcelain.
Oil Troubles (see also IS: 1866)
Low dielectric Condensation in open type Make certain that ventilating openings are unobstructed.
strength transformers from improper Replace diaphragm. Replace gasket, if necessary. Test
ventilation Broken pressure cooling coil and repair.
relief diaphragm Leaks
around cover accessories
Leaky cooling coil
High moisture content Ingress of moisture in oil/ Filter and monitor ppm for three months. In case moisture
winding content increases again, check points of moisture entry and
take appropriate action.
Badly dis-coloured oil Contaminated by varnishes. Retain oil if dielectric strength, resistivity and tan delta
Carbonized oil due to values of oil are satisfactory as per IS 1866. CI 2.5.1 of this
switching Winding or core section
failure
Oxidation (sludge or Exposure to air ‘Wash down’ core and coils and tank. Filter and reclaim or
acidity) High operating replace oil. Same as above. Either reduce load or improve
temperatures cooling.
*Code of practice for maintenance and supervision of insulating oil in service (first revision). In any event,
filter oil or dry transformer by heating, or both, to restore dielectric strength.
Notes
In addition to the above instructions given in this section reference may also be made to IS: 10028 Part
1,2&3 -Code of Practice for Selection, Installation and Maintenance of Transformers Part 1-Selection,
Part 2-Installation & Part 3-Maintenance
In case of anything abnormal occurring during service, manufacturer’s advice should be obtained, giving
them complete particulars as to the nature and the extent of occurrence, together with the nameplate
particulars in order to assist identification.
Special list of testing equipment required at site are included in Annexure -II.
328 Manual on Transformers
Annexure II
Equipment’s Required for Pre-Commissioning
and Maintenance Tests
SL. No. Test Equipment Required Ref.
1. IR value of transformer Battery and mains operated 5 kV IS : 2026
winding. motorized Insulation Tester
2. DC resistance of transformer Automatic winding resistance test kit IS : 2026
winding. (25 Amp.)
10. Frequency Response Analysis. Sweep Frequency Response Analyzer IEC 60076-18
Note: HV lead of test kits like Insulation tester and tan delta kits should be with double screen and other leads should
be at least single shielded.
Guidelines for Erection, Commissioning and Maintenance 329
Annexure IiI
(vi) After stainless steel sampling bottle (5) has been completely filled with
oil, allow about one litre to two litres of oil to flow to waste bucket (7),
till no air bubbles are seen from top outlet.
(vii) Stop the oil flow by closing of first the valve (6) and then valve (4) and
finally the sampling valve (1).
(viii) Disconnect the sample bottle (5) and then disconnect the tubing from the
main equipment and the sampling bottle.
(ix) Label the sample. (Refer Annexure III-A)
(x) Send the information as per Annexure-III-B along with the samples
(xi) In case of critical samples furnish information as per Annexure-III-C
also
Precautions: (i) When sampling oil, precaution should be taken to deal with any sudden
release of oil.
(ii) Sample should normally be drawn from the bottom sampling valve.
(iii) Proper closing of both the valves (4) & (6) of the bottle should be ensured
immediately after the collection of sample.
(iv) Due care should be taken to avoid exposure of oil to air while sampling.
(v) Sampling should be done preferably in a dry weather condition.
(vi) Sample should be taken when the equipment is in its normal operating
condition.
(vii) Care should be taken to hold the bottle in place inside the container when
transporting.
(viii) Testing should be carried out as early as possible.
332 Manual on Transformers
Now a days, syringes are available of various capacity for oil sampling purpose. These oil
sampling in syringes have advantage than sampling in bottles as bottles are sometimes not
completely tight thus resulting in error in DGA results. Some of the utilities have started oil
sampling in syringes. The specification of syringes and oil sampling procedure for syringes is
given below for reference.
Specification of Syringes
The glass syringe and three way stop cock valve shall meet the following specification
Name / Designation
Organisation Name and
Address
Tel No & Fax
E-mail
4.0 Tests to be done: (please tick desired standard and required tests)
Guidelines for Erection, Commissioning and Maintenance 337
Reference Standard: Oil Parameters: IS-1866 (Before Charging) / IS-1866 (In-Service) / IS-335/
IS-12463/
Dissolved Gas Analysis (IS- Water Content (IS-13567) Dielectric Strength (IS-6792)
9434)
Specific Resistance at 90degC Dielectric Dissipation Factor Total Acidity (IEC-62021
(IS-6103) at 90degC Vol-1 / IS-1448 P-l)
(IS-6262)
Inter Facial Tension at 27°C Flash Point (IS-1448-P-21) Sludge Content (IS-1866)
(IS-6104)
Kinematic Viscosity at 27°C Pour Point (IS-1448P-10) Density at 29.5°C (IS-1448
(IS-1448-P-25) P-16)
Carbon Type Composition Oxidation Stability (Annex- SK Value (Annex-D of IS-
(IS-13155) CofIS-335) 335)
Oxidative Aging (IS-12177 Corrosive Sulphur (Annex- Inhibitor Content (IS-13631)
(Method-A)) BofIS-335)
Furan Analysis (IEC-61198)
Date of commissioning :
MVA rating :
kV rating :
Oil type (Parafinic / Naphthanic) :
Cooling (ONAN/ONAF/OFAF/OFWF) :
Type of oil preservation: (Air cell/diaphragm type/Direct breathing)
Make :
338 Manual on Transformers
1. Voltage profile for last six months indicating maximum and minimum values and % of
time voltage more than rated voltage.
Annexure IV
The equipment offered shall be for the measurement of insulation resistance of electrical
equipment.
Technical Requirements
Type
Portable, compact and direct reading type of multi voltage and multi rated insulation resistance
ranges. It shall be suitable for DC battery operation. Batteries shall be rechargeable with 230V,
50 Hz AC supply. The necessary accessories for this purpose shall be supplied by the supplier.
There should be provision for infinity adjustment. The instrument shall be supplied in a carrying
case with 2 m long mains lead and 25 m long test leads with carrying case.
It shall generally comply with the requirements of IS: 2992 and IS: 11994 or relevant
internationally acceptable standards.
As per requirement of ISO - 9001, calibration certificate for each testing instrument covering
entire range shall be supplied with the test kit at the time of supply.
The testing equipment is generally meant for carrying out testing at site and transportation-
movement from one place to another is unavoidable. Therefore equipments shall be robust in
design so that it gives desired performance even in adverse site conditions. Though the instrument
is capable of operating on battery and are provided with battery condition indicators, it would
be advisable to conduct the tests on mains supply input power to the extent possible. Usage of
battery must be resorted to sparingly.
The instrument is used for measuring DC winding resistance of the transformer/reactor where
large inductance is present.
The test kit shall be able to withstand inductive kicks from transformer winding.
340 Manual on Transformers
The display of resistance should be through LED/LCD without requiring any balancing of
decades to obtain stable readings.
It should employ four wire method and no lead compensation shall be required for
measurement.
Built-in discharge circuit should be provided to discharge the specimen when test is completed
when current lead accidentally disconnects or when instrument power supply is lost.
Technical Parameters
General Requirements
The instrument shall contain all standard accessories including test leads of 25 meters with
suitable clamps/connectors and carrying case.
The kit should have been proven for repeatability of test results in charged switchyard conditions
and documentary evidence should be furnished along with the bid. The kit should have been
tested for EMI /EMC as per standards.
Input supply of the kit shall be 230 Volts AC, 50 Hz, Variations + 15% and 5% in voltage and
frequency respectively.
As per requirement of ISO-9001, calibration certificate for each testing instrument covering
entire range shall be supplied with the test kit at the time of supply.
The testing equipment is generally meant for carrying out testing at site and movement from one
place to another is unavoidable. Therefore equipment shall be robust in design so that it gives
desired performance even in adverse site conditions.
Battery / mains operated micro ohmmeters employing currents less than 5 amps are not
recommended for transformers.
The equipment offered shall be used for measurement of turns ratio of various transformers and
bushing current transformers automatically displaying the ratio without requiring any manual
balancing of decades.
Technical Requirement
Measuring Principle
It should display actual turns ratio of different vector groups in three phase transformers without
conversion
The kit should be supplied with 25 m of test lead. The kit should be tested for successful
operation in charged 765 kV switch yard and be tested for EMI and EMC. The kit shall be
capable of operating at a temperature of 50°C and at a humidity upto 85%.
As per requirement of ISO 9001 calibration certificate for each testing instrument covering
entire range shall be supplied with the test kit at the time of supply.
The testing equipment is generally meant for carrying out testing at site and movement from one
place to another is unavoidable. Therefore equipment shall be robust in design so that it gives
desired performance even in adverse site conditions.
The equipment offered shall be suitable for determination of electrical strength (break down
voltage) of insulating oil conforming to IS-335 and IS-1866 upto 100 kV when measured in
accordance with IS:6792.
The test cell shall be as per IS: 6792 and IEC-156 suitable for BDV upto 100 kV without
external flash over.
The unit shall be automatic type having control unit and high voltage transformer in a common
cabinet with necessary partition.
The unit shall have motorized drive to increase voltage linearly as per the rate specified in IS:
6792. Provision shall also be available for manual increase of voltage.
342 Manual on Transformers
The unit shall be complete with test cell stirrer, calibrator and necessary gauges for adjusting
the gap.
The equipment shall be suitable for operation at 240 volts, 50Hz, single phase AC supply.
As per requirement of ISO-9001, calibration certificate for each testing instrument covering
entire range shall be supplied with the test kit at the time of supply.
The testing equipment is generally meant for carrying out testing at site and movement from one
place to another is unavoidable. Therefore equipment shall be robust in design so that it gives
desired performance even in adverse site conditions.
The test kit shall make use of automatic Karl Fischer titrator capable of measuring water in oil
upto 1 ppm. The measured moisture shall be displayed in microgram or PPM or percentage.
As per requirement of ISO 9001, calibration certificate for each testing instrument covering
entire range shall be supplied with the test kit at the time of supply.
The testing equipment is generally meant for carrying out testing at site and movement from one
place to another is unavoidable, Therefore equipment shall be robust in design so that it gives
Guidelines for Erection, Commissioning and Maintenance 343
The instrument should be suitable for automatic offline measurement of C& Tan δ of the
switchyard equipments as well as excitation current of transformers/reactors, in live switchyard
upto 800 kV AC and 800 kV DC level. The test results should have repeatability, consistency &
immunity to electromagnetic interference in live switchyard.
Output V: 0-10 kV AC
I: 0-100 mA (Min) continuous, 200 mA(Min) intermittently
Test Frequency 45 Hz to 55 Hz, Independent of line voltage & frequency variations
Accuracy Cp : 0.5 % of reading ± 1pF
Tan δ : 1 % of reading ± 0.02%
Measurement Range Cp : 10 pF to 1 µ F
Tan δ : 0 to 100 %
Power Supply It shall work on single phase 230 Volts ±10 %, 50 Hz ±5 % supply with standard
socket.
Operating temperature & 0 to +50 deg C
humidity
Humidity upto 90 %
Against short circuit, over voltage, improper ground connection over load & transient surges,
the kit should have alarm/cut-off features to protect the instrument. Also the kit should have
facility of stopping automatically on power failure as well as interlock for HV. One complete set
of cables of sufficient length (Min 25Metre) with suitable clamps & connectors, compatible with
the instruments should be provided for successfully carrying out the test.
(7) PC requirement A reputed laptop with latest specifications such as Core 2 Duo processor, 2GB
DDR RAM 320GB HDD DVD writer,15’’TFT screen or with better specs.
Preloaded with MS Windows XP,/VISTA/latest with antivirus.Original CDs
etc
The cost of PC shall be quoted separately.
(8) Software The test record should download via RS 232 C port to a PC in windows
Excel/equivalent format. Software shall be able to assist in analyzing the
measurements and its reporting in user friendly manner.Softwareupgradation
shall be done as and when applies with no cost to POWERGRID.
(9) Accessories All testing/measurement low noise cables 18 meter long. PC inter phase
cables, Power supply cables,USB cables, Operating manual, Original CD
and software, Application CD etc. Hard carrying case etc.connectors.AC
power adopter.
(10) Repeatability It should offer repeatability of test results in charged switchyard.
(11) Operating conditions Shall operate at Temperature 0 to 50 deg C, Humidity not condensing up
to 95%,
(12) Safety Standards The test set shall meet international safety standard for IEC 61010-1 safety
and IEC 61326-1 EMC
The Instrument shall be able to detect and aid identification of dielectric and mechanical failures
in large power transformers in 400 kV/765 kV charged area, preceded by mechanical changes
in the winding structure due to Transportation damage, Short circuit forces, Natural effects of
aging on the insulating structures etc. The testing method should be based on Sweep Frequency
Response Analysis of complex R-L-C-network. The test instrument shall be designed and supplied
complete with accessories cables connectors, leads etc. alongwith required licensed software for
proper analysis and storage of test data. Detailed specifications of various components of FRA
test set are as below:
1.1 Condition monitoring may be defined as a predictive method making use of the fact
that most equipment will have a useful life before maintenance is required. It includes the
life mechanism of individual parts of equipment or the whole equipment, the application and
development of special purpose equipment, the means of acquiring the data and the analysis of
that data to predict the trends.
1.2 Initial stage of a condition monitoring programme consists of establishing the base line
parameters and then recording the actual base line (or finger prints) values. The next stage is
the establishment of routine testing of plants and equipment observing the running condition
and assessing the parameters previously determined for the baseline. These readings are then
compared with the fingerprint and the state of the present plant condition can be determined
from the absolute figures. The rate of degradation and an assessment of the likely to failure can
be estimated from the trend.
The following condition-monitoring techniques are currently being used by Power Utilities
world over to assess the health of transformer/ reactors in service:
1.4.1 Dissolved Gas Analysis (DGA) provides an early warning of various incipient faults in
transformer winding or core.
1.4.2 Oil Parameters Testing: Low BDV indicates moisture or particulate contaminants in the
oil. High moisture content varying with temperature indicates wet winding. Acidity, resistivity and
interfacial tension (IFT) indicate oil condition. (For other details refer clause 2.5 of section CC)
1.4.3 Capitance & Tan δ measurement of bushing and winding to assess the condition of
insulation, bushing and winding (For details refer clause 6.9 & 8.11 of section BB)
349
350 Manual on Transformers
contact joints and OLTC connections (For details refer clause 4.1 & 8.3 of section BB)
1.4.5 Impedance measurements with precision instruments to check for dynamic movements
of winding due to system short-circuit faults
1.4.6 Turn ratio test indicates problem in winding and verifies correct tap changer
connections
1.4.7 Excitation/ magnetization current tests to locate faults in the magnetic core structure
such as shorted laminates or core bolt insulation breakdown or shorted turns due to insulation
failures, which have resulted in conducting paths between winding turns.
1.4.9 Frequency response analysis (FRA) to check for system resonance condition and
dynamic movements and detection of winding mechanical distortion during transportation and
through fault.
1.4.10 PD measurement through UHF, Acoustic, RFI methods for localization of faults
1.4.12 On-line dielectric dissipation factor (DDF) monitoring of bushings: Signals from
transducers connected to test taps of bushings are collected and transmitted to User Interface
Module for processing the data by proprietary software and converted to dielectric loss angle/
dielectric dissipation factor (DDF) and leakage current values.
1.4.13 Dielectric Response Methods for Diagnostics for Power Transformers giving general
indication of moisture in insulation and possible paper ageing and oil condition
(a) On-Line hydrogen monitors to provide earliest possible detection of gas build up and
alert the user to the need for more detailed analysis
(b) On-line moisture content measurement to continuously monitor water content in oil,
which indicates the status of solid insulation. The data is stored in monitor’s memory
and can be down loaded remotely or locally which can be subsequently analyzed using
window based control software. The software automatically gives trend analyses;
generate graphs and reports for the user to take action based on the same.
Guidelines for Condition Monitoring and Diagnostic Techniques for Power Transformers and Reactors 351
1.4.16 On-line temperature monitoring-direct measurement through fibre optic sensors for
continuous monitoring of hot spot temperature can be the basis for an on-line load management
system which can be accessed by operating staff to control loading pattern and thermal ageing
of the transformer.
2.1 The transformer undergoes electrical, chemical and thermal stresses during its service life
which may result in slow evolving incipient faults inside the transformer. The gases generated
under abnormal electrical or thermal stresses are hydrogen(H2), methane(CH4), ethane (C2H6),
ethylene (C2H4), acetylene (C2H2), carbon monoxide(CO), carbon dioxide(CO2), nitrogen(N2)
and oxygen (O) which get dissolved in oil. Collectively these gases are known as Fault Gases,
which are routinely detected and quantified at extremely low level, typically in parts per million
(ppm) in dissolved Gas Analysis (DGA). Most commonly used method to determine the content
of these gases in oil is using a Vacuum Gas Extraction Apparatus and Gas Chromatograph.
2.2 DGA is a powerful diagnostic technique for detection of slow evolving faults inside the
transformer by analyzing the gases generated during the fault which gets dissolved in the oil.
For Dissolved Gas Analysis to be reliable, it is essential that sample taken for DGA should be
representative of lot and no dissolved gas shall be lost during transportation and laboratory analysis.
Suggested sampling procedure based on IEC 60567 is given in Annexure-III of Chapter CC.
Effective fault gas interpretation should basically tell us first of all, whether there is any incipient
fault present in the transformer. If there is any problem, what kind of fault it is. Whether the fault
is serious and the equipment needs to be taken out of service for further investigation. DGA can
identify deteriorating insulation and oil, hot spots, partial discharge, and arcing. The health of oil is
reflective of the health of the transformer itself. DGA analysis helps the user to identify the reason
for gas formation and materials involved and indicate urgency of corrective action to be taken.
2.3 The evolution of individual gas concentrations and total dissolved combustible gas
(TDCG) generation over time and the rate of change (based on IEC 60599 and IEEE C 57-104
standards) are the key indicators of a developing problem. Some of the recognised interpretation
techniques are discussed below:
To ensure that a transformer (with no measured previous dissolved gas history) is behaving
352 Manual on Transformers
normal, the DGA results are compared with the gassing characteristics exhibited by the majority
of similar transformers or normal population. As the transformer ages and gases are generated,
the normal levels for 90% of a typical transformer population can be determined. From these
values and based on experience, acceptable limits or threshold levels have been determined as
given in Table 1 below:
Table 1 : Ranges of 90% Typical Conc Values (all Types of Transformers) as per IEC 60599 /1999
However it is improper to apply threshold level concept without considering the rate of change
of the gas concentration. When an abnormal situation is indicated by above table, a testing
schedule is devised with increased sampling frequency.
The severity of an incipient fault can be further evaluated by the total dissolved combustible gas
(TDCG) present. Limits for TDCG are as given in Table 2. An increasing gas generation rate
indicates a problem of increasing severity and therefore we should resort to shorter sampling
frequency.
Table 2 : Action based on TDCG limits (IEEE standard C:57.104-1991)
< or = 720 Satisfactory operation, Unless individual gas acceptance values are
exceeded
721-1920 Normal ageing/ slight decomposition, Trend to be established to see
if any evolving incipient fault is present.
1921-4630 Significant decomposition, Immediate action to establish trend to see
if fault is progressively becoming worse.
>4630 Substantial decomposition, Gassing rate and cause of gassing should
be identified and appropriate corrective action such as removal from
service may be taken.
Guidelines for Condition Monitoring and Diagnostic Techniques for Power Transformers and Reactors 353
Note : TDCG value includes all hydrocarbons, CO & LH, and does not include C02 which is not a combustible gas.
2.3.3 The relationship of evolved gas with temperature and the type of faults are shown in
Tables 3 and 4 respectively:
Table 3 : Relationship of evolved gases with temperature
Associated faults with different gases Oil Overheating :C2H4, C2H6, CH4
Traces of acetylene with smaller quantity of Hydrogen may be evolved
Overheated Cellulose: CO
Large quantity of Carbon-Di-Oxide (CO2) and Carbon Monoxide (CO) are evolved from overheated cellulose.
Hydrocarbon gases such as Methane and Ethylene will be formed if the fault involves an oil impregnated structure.
Partial discharge in Oil (Corona): H2, CH4
Ionisation of high stressed area where gas / vapour filled voids are present or ‘wet spot’ produces Hydrogen and
methane and small quantity of other hydrocarbons like ethane and ethylene. Comparable amounts of carbon mono-
oxide and di-oxide may result due to discharges in cellulose.
Arcing in Oil :C2H2, H2
Large amount of Hydrogen and acetylene are produced with minor quantities of methane and ethylene in case of
arcing between the leads, lead to coil and high stressed area. Small amounts of carbon mono-oxide and di-oxide may
also be formed, if fault involves cellulose.
It is well known that there is no definite interpretation method in the world, which can indicate
the exact location and type of the fault. The different interpretation methods only provide
guidelines to take an engineering judgment about the equipment. Apart from the DGA results
various other factors are taken into consideration such as past history of the transformer, grid
condition, loading patterns etc.
2.4 Ratio Methods
Several well- known methods/criteria (like Rogers ratio, IEC 60599, Dornenberg, Key gas etc.)
are being used by utilities to interpret the DGA results, based mostly on the relative concentrations
(i.e. ratios) of the constituent gases. These ratios generally give an indication of the existence
and nature of a problem. Some of the interpretation methods used for DGA arediscussed here
in brief:
2.4.1 IEC 60599 Method
This method is applicable only when the fault gas results are ten times the sensitivity limit of
354 Manual on Transformers
the Gas Chromatograph (GC). As per IEC 60567 the sensitivity limit for the GC should be
maximum 1 ppm for all the hydrocarbons and 5 ppm for hydrogen. In this method three ratios
viz. C2H2/C2H4, CH4/H2& C2H4/C2H6 are used for interpretation. Various combinations of the
ratios are used for diagnosis of type of fault such as PD, Discharge of low energy, Discharge of
high energy, Thermal fault < 300 deg C, Thermal fault 300 - 700 Deg C and Thermal fault > 700
Dcg C. The table (as per IEC 60599) showing different type of faults depending upon the three
key ratios is given in Table 5 :
Though this method is quite comprehensive, still there are cases where it does not fit into any
of the cases listed in the diagnosis table. These cases should be dealt through trend analysis and
other interpretation methods. Again interpretation through the above method is meaningless
unless it is correlated with the earlier sample results.
Characteristic “Key Gases” have been used to identify particular type of fault. Laboratory
simulations and comparison of results of DGA tests combined with observations from the tear
down of failed transformers have permitted the development of a diagnostic scheme of the
characteristic gases generated from thermal and electrical (Corona and arcing) deterioration of
electrical insulation. Table 6 shown the lists of the key gases for the conditions of arcing, corona,
overheating in oil and overheating in paper in the order of decreasing severity.
Guidelines for Condition Monitoring and Diagnostic Techniques for Power Transformers and Reactors 355
(a) The Doernenberg Ratio method is used when prescribed normal levels of gassing are
exceeded. It provides a simple scheme for distinguishing between pyrolysis (overheating) and PD
(corona and arcing). In this method four ratios viz. CH4/H2,C2 H2C2 H4 C2H6/C2H2 & C2H7/CH4
are used.
Table 7 : Ratios for key gases - Doernenburg
Suggested fault diagnosis Ratio I (Rl) Ratio 2 (R2) C2H2/ Ratio 3 (R3) Ratio 4 (R4)
CH2/H2 C2H4 C2H2/CHd4 C2H6/C2H2
1.Thermal Decomposition >1.0 <0.75 <0.3 >0.4
2.Corona (Low Intensity PD) <0.1 Not Significant <0.3 >0.4
3.Arcing (High Intensity PD) >0.1 >0.75 >0.3 <0.4
In Doemenburg’s method for declaring the unit faulty at least one of the gas concentrations (in
ppm) for H2, CH4, C2H2and C2 H4should exceed twice the values from limit LI (Table 8) and
one of the other three should exceed the values for Limit LI. Having established that the unit is
faulty, for determining the validity of ratio procedure at least one of the gases in each ratio Rl,
R2, R3 or R4 should exceed limit LI. Otherwise the unit should be re-sampled and investigated
by alternative procedures.
Table 8 : Concentrations of dissolved gas
(b) The Rogers Ratio method is a more comprehensive scheme using only three
ratios viz. CH4/H2, C2H2/C H4& C2H4/C2H6, which details temperature ranges for
overheating conditions based on Halstead’s research and some distinction of the
severity of incipient electrical fault conditions (Table 9). A normal condition is
also listed.
Table 9 : Rogers ratio for Key Gases
Note There will be a tendency for the ratios R2 and R4 to increase to a ratio above 3 as the discharge develops in
intensity
lEEIi C57.104 - 1991 standard gives an elaborate way of analysing the type of fault using
Doernenberg, Rogers’s method and TDCG limits.
However it is again emphasized that DGA shall give misleading results unless certain precautions
are taken. These are proper sampling procedure, Type of sampling bottle, cleanliness of bottle,
duration of storage, method of gas extraction, good testing equipment and skilled manpower.
Transformers from the same manufacturer and of same type some time exhibit initially specific
pattern of gas evolution which subsequently slows down (or reach a plateau) is called Fingerprints
or normal characteristics, which are characteristic to the transformer and do not represent an
incipient fault condition.
When a possible incipient fault condition is identified for first time, it is advisable to determine
gassing trend with subsequent analysis giving information such as which gases are currently
being generated and rate of generation of these gases. The level of gases generated in subsequent
analysis provides a baseline from which future judgement can be made. In the examination
of trends, key gases, TDCG, CO2/CO ratio, rate of gas generation and fingerprints (of normal
trends) of particular transformer should also be considered.
Guidelines for Condition Monitoring and Diagnostic Techniques for Power Transformers and Reactors 357
The ratio of gas generation is a function of load supplied by the transformers and this informatior-
is vital in determining the severity of fault condition and decision of removal of the equipment
from service for further investigation. Two methods are suggested in literature for assessing the
gassing rate:
General guidelines for rate of gas generation for removal of transformer from service are 100
ppm/day and 0.1 cub feet (0.003 m3) gas per day
A flow chart is given at Fig. 1 for step by step action to be taken based on DGA test results giving
recommendations:
Examination of DGA results Compare with
DGA of previous sample and with typical values
At least one gas above typical values All gases below typical values of
Report as typical
ol gas concentrations and rates gas concentrations and rales
DGA/healthy
of gas increase of gas increase
equipment
Calculate gas ratios
Store data
Degradation of insulating paper can be ascertained by direct or indirect methods. Direct method
employs Degree of Polymerization (DP), which requires a physical paper sample from the
winding. However, this method being destructive to transformer, cannot be employed as a
routine condition monitoring exercise.
358 Manual on Transformers
One of the most dependable means of determining paper deterioration and remaining
life is the DP test of the cellulose. The cellulose molecule is made up of a long chain
of glucose rings which form the mechanical strength of the molecule and the paper. DP
is the average number of these rings in the molecule. For DP measurement remove a
sample of the paper insulation about 1 centimeter square from a convenient location near
the top of center phase with a pair of tweezers. In general, in a three-phase transformer,
the hottest most thermally aged paper will be at the top of the center phase. If it is not
possible to take a sample from the center phase, take a sample from the top of one of the
other phases.
Table 10 DP values for estimating remaining paper life
Generally FFAs are extracted from the oil either by solvent extraction or solid phase extraction
and measured by HPLC by UV detector. The major FFA in oil is 2-Furfural and others are
present in very low or undetected levels. 2-Furfural can be measured colorimetrically using
spectrophotometer. This method is rapid and accurate and measures only 2-Furfural in oil. This
technique is useful for quick screening of FFA in transformer oil. The relationship between
the generation of these by-products and condition of in service paper is not well established.
However, it has generally been seen that there is a linear relationship between FFA and DP. FFA
may be used as a complimentary technique to DGA for condition monitoring.
Guidelines for Condition Monitoring and Diagnostic Techniques for Power Transformers and Reactors 359
4.1 Laboratory DGA is carried out at a predefined interval and the fault developing within that
interval cannot be ascertained till the transformer has actually failed. It is important to appreciate
that some faults may take less than one year to progress from onset to failure; others may remain
in a stable state for a much longer period but have the potential for a rapid increase. In case
of sudden rise in gas levels indicated by on-line sensor, sample should be sent for immediate
laboratory analysis for confirmation and to decide further course of action. One of the most
widely used on line Gas Monitoring system has a membrane, which allows preferentially lighter
360 Manual on Transformers
molecules to pass through and be detected in a gas reaction cell. Some of the on-line gas monitors
also provide continuous moisture measurement thereby ascertaining the wetness of the winding.
4.2 More recently various companies have developed Fourier transform infra Red (FTIR)
detectors which will detect most of the gases of interest and quantify their amounts. These
systems are not seen currently as an alternative to the very low cost of a laboratory based oil
analysis. Their current role is to investigate particular transformer with gassing problems.
However, an added benefit being gained is the greater understanding of the load temperature,
time relationships for detected gases. This should eventually lead to better understanding and
interpretation of the laboratory analysis.
To overcome interference due to charged switchyard, the polarity of the input voltage is
reversed w. r. t. electrostatic interference and second measurement is made; the two averaged
and interference is effectively reduced. The testing kit with its own sinusoidal source and
interference suppression / cancellation unit is used which generates its own signal opposite in
phase and magnitude to cancel out the interference.
While carrying out this test in EHV substation, certain precautions like use of Interference
Suppression Unit along with double-shielded leads, disconnection of jumpers and cleaning of
surface of the bushings are taken. All phases of a particular winding is shorted together and also
with neutral to minimize the effect of inductive currents during measurements.
(a) Bushing Dissipation factor and capacitance values are measured in UST (Ungrounded
Specimen Test) mode.
(b) Measurement for windings is carried out as per the following combinations:
• Winding to Ground in GSTg mode with other winding guarded. While carrying out
measurement for HV winding LV winding should be guarded whereas for LV winding
HV winding shall be guarded.
• Winding to Ground in GST mode may be done for verification of test results taken in
UST and GSTg mode.
• Tan delta value for healthy insulation does not change appreciably with change in
Guidelines for Condition Monitoring and Diagnostic Techniques for Power Transformers and Reactors 361
Rate of change of tan delta and capacitance is very important. Normally Tan delta of bushings
and windings at 20°C should be less than 0.007 during O&M. For new bushings, Tan delta value
generally lower than 0.50.4% and for windings also, Tan delta value should be less than 0.5% at
20 deg C. Capacitance value can be within +10%, -5% of previous capacitance values. Rate of
rise of Tan delta for bushings and windings should not be more than 0.001 per year. The rate of
change of tan delta more than 0.001 per year needs further investigation
Frequency Response Analysis (FRA) is made to assess the mechanical integrity of the
transformer. Transformers while experiencing severity of short circuit current looses its
mechanical property by way of deformation of the winding or core. These changes cannot be
detected through conventional condition monitoring techniques such as Dissolved Gas Analysis,
Winding Resistance Measurement, Capacitance and Tan delta measurement etc. Sometimes even
transportation without proper precaution may cause some internal mechanical damages. FRA
measurement, which is signature analysis, provides vital information of the internal condition of
the equipment so that early corrective action could be initiated.
Short circuit forces can cause winding movement and changes in winding inductance or
capacitance in Power Transformers. Recording the frequency response with these changes gives
information regarding the internal condition of the equipment. Frequency Response Analysis
(FRA) has proved to be an effective tool to detect such changes.
measuring input (T1) is connected to the other end of the winding. The voltage is applied and
measured with respect to the earthed transformer tank. While the low frequency analysis reveals
the winding movements, the high frequency analysis reveals the condition of joints.
It is ensured that winding which is not under test is terminated in open condition in order to avoid
response difference among the three phases. The same procedure is followed on subsequent tests
on the same or similar transformer, to ensure that measurements are entirely repeatable.
The voltage transfer function T1/R1 is measured for each winding for four standard frequency
scans from 5 Hz to 2 MHZ and amplitude & phase shift results are recorded for subsequent
analysis
Interpretation of the test results is based on subjective comparison of FRA responses taken
at different intervals. If changes are observed in the later FRA spectrum with respect to the
reference FRA spectrum, it is left to the experience of the analyst for quantitative condition
assessment of the transformer. However, one should check for any significant shift in the
resonance frequencies and emergence of new resonant frequencies in the later FRA response,
which could be the result of any mechanical deformation in the transformer winding. As FRA
is signature analysis, data of signature of the equipment when in healthy condition is required
for proper analysis. Signatures could also be compared with unit of same internal design or
with other phases of the same unit. Normally measured responses are analysed for any of the
following:
Fig.3
Guidelines for Condition Monitoring and Diagnostic Techniques for Power Transformers and Reactors 363
As per EuroDoble Client Committee, the traces in general will change shape and be distorted in
the low frequency range (below 5 KHz) if there is a core problem. The traces will be distorted
and change shape in higher frequencies (above 10 KHz), if there is winding problem. Changes
of less than 3 decibels (dB) compared to baseline traces are normal and within tolerances. In
general, changes of +/- 3 dB (or more) in following frequency range may indicate following
faults:
Table 12
• Following international standards are available for FRA and its interpretation:
PD techniques for detection and location are important for diagnostics, as they not only
help to identify the inception of damage caused, but also assist to monitor the evolving
and deteriorating situation affected by the various stress factors existing in the service
condition. There can be various reasons for PD inception. It can be the result of electrical
stress caused by mechanical deformation, overheating of insulated conductor or even can
be the result of inherent defect. The PD detection at site can be done by various techniques
such as:
• Acoustic measurement
• RFI measurement
• UHF measurement
All these techniques have their strength and weakness in terms of sensitivity and accuracy. The
sensitivity and effectiveness of these techniques depends upon the type of defect and location
of the fault.
364 Manual on Transformers
Normally Oil samples are taken once or twice a year from the main tank for laboratory
analysis. From dissolved gas analyses it is possible to detect damage caused by both
overheating and PD. However a direct measurement of PD will be much helpful to
ascertain a rapidly increasing rate of PD than relying upon the trending of dissolved
gases.
PD measurement for factory acceptance testis based upon IEC 60270 standard. The measurement
with this method is usually made using the bushing tap as a capacitance divider and measuring
PD transients in the 30-500 kHz range.
The PD measurement at the bushing taps is affected by the attenuation, the winding resonance,
external corona, various electromagnetic discharges present at the site and the weather
condition.
Fig. 4
• Acoustic PD Measurement
Acoustic discharge detection is based on detection of the mechanical signals emitted from the
discharge. The discharge appears as a small “explosion,” which excites a mechanical wave that
propagates throughout the insulation. These waves propagate through different media before
reaching the container of the equipment under test. AE sensors mounted on the container
of the equipment pickup these AE signals and convert into electrical signals, which could
be analysed using a data acquisition and processing system. Acoustic PD detection system
usually consists of AE sensor, preamplifier and a data acquisition, storing and analyzing
instrument.
Guidelines for Condition Monitoring and Diagnostic Techniques for Power Transformers and Reactors 365
• RFI Scanning
The important advantage of this method is that it can be included in the routine monitoring
schedule and will survey all substation equipment. It will indicate bushing problems and
this is one area where dissolved gas analysis is limited by the difficulties in extracting a
gas sample. Sensors such as telescopic, duck antenna or high frequency split core current
transformers can be used. The main advantage is that this method can detect the PD without
the need for outages or any special connections. For effective analysis, the RFI signals
are monitored in frequency domain from 50 MHz to 1000 MHz as well as in time domain
mode.
Fig. 5
The broadcasted signals are narrowband in nature whereas the RF signals produced by PD
are broadband in nature. It is therefore necessary to discriminate between these two signals to
recognize the presence of PD source.
The facility of both peak and average detectors in the instrument facilitates discrimination
between the narrowband characteristics of broadcast RF emissions and the broadband impulsive
RF emissions from PD. The amplitudes of the peak and average measurements for broadcasted
366 Manual on Transformers
RF emissions are nearly same whereas in case of broadband RF emissions resulting from PD
the average value has much lower amplitude. Figure given below shows the variation in average
and peak amplitude measurements.
In this method, UHF probe inserted in an oil valve or access port allowing the transformer tank
to screen interference acting like a Faraday cage. This probe detects the electromagnetic radiation
from the PD and is not affected by winding resonances. The UHF method technique can be used on
site even when the transformer is energized, in a high electromagnetic interference environment.
UHF method cannot be calibrated ay injecting a known charge across the winding as is done in
case of conventional method as per IEC 60270. Performance/Sensitivity Check is performed by
Injecting high-frequency test impun the additionally integrated electrode.
Fig. 7
Guidelines for Condition Monitoring and Diagnostic Techniques for Power Transformers and Reactors 367
The PD output of the UHF probe is connected via coaxial cable to a pre-amplifier and the
measuring instrument. Optimum measuring frequencies for better signal and S/N are selected
for measurements and measurements are performed
Figures given below shows a typical probe inserted through an oil valve and typical curve
obtained during measurement.
Fig. 9 Measurement of the relaxation currents using PDCAnalyser& Principle waveform of relaxation currents
Fig. 10
determine the “hump” left of the steep gradient. In order to determine the moisture content of the
insulation, the measurement should also provide data left of the “hump”, where the properties
of the solid insulation dominate.
Fig. 11
Following table may be considered for determining the level of wetness and taking necessary
action for Dryout.
Table 13 : Moisture content in paper
(Source : CIGRE DOC. No. 227. Life Management Technique for Power Transformer)
9.2 The direct measurement of winding temperature of transformer by hot probes with fibre-
optic links is based on fluoroptic thermometry technology where a temperature sensitive phos-
phor is connected to the detector. Blue violet light pulses are sent down the fibre causing the
phosphor to glow. Decay of fluorescence after each pulse varies accurately with temperature.
The same optical fibre transmits the excitation pulses and returns the fluorescent signal. It has a
very wide temperature range of measurement (-200°C to + 450°C) and has a high accuracy of
+ 0.1 °C. The optical signals do not get distorted in presence of even very high electromagnetic
fields. The cables/links are non-corrosive in transformer oil and they do not influence the electric
field inside transformer.
9.3 The change in decay time of fluorescent light is detected by a detector, which is directly
calibrated in terms of temperature. The response time of the change is very high and of the order
of 0.2 sec. So, fibre-oplic point sensors for direct hot-spot measurement can measure the actual
hot-spot and have a much faster response. Accurate knowledge of thermal behaviourand hot-
spot temperature enables the manufacturer to refine designs and calculating procedures and the
customer to fully utilize the overload capabilities of plant without reducing life expectancy and
degrading the dielectric integrity.
10.0 THERMO VISION SCANNING OF TRANSFORMER
A thermo vision camera determines the temperature distribution on the surface of the tank as
well as in the vicinity of the Jumper connection to the bushing. The information obtained is use-
ful in predicting the temperature profile within the inner surface of tank and is likely to provide
approximate details of heating mechanism
The following temperature rises above ambient have been found to be practical during infrared
inspections:
Table 14 : Action based on temperature rise above ambient
Note : Any decision to remove any equipment from service has to he taken based on test results, special tests if any (in
totality) and manufacturers’ recommendation.
11.0 CONCLUSION
Condition monitoring uses sensors to provide raw data and warning signals from the equipment
under surveillance. The diagnostic and condition monitoring together is a powerful tool for
optimizing assets life. It also helps to reduce maintenance, failure and consequential losses and
to assist in predicting residual life. Based on the results, refurbishment strategy, upgrading and
replacement decisions can be taken.
SECTION EE
1.1 Introduction
The hazard of fire originating in or spreading to power transformers has always been recognised in
the Power Industry. With the increasing size of generating units and associated transmission and
distribution networks the number of transformers or large capacities has increased phenomenally
thus necessitating more stringent protection measures to prevent fire risk to transformers and
damage to equipment. This section of the transformer specification discusses the various aspects
of transformer fire protection.
1.2 Strategy
The strategy for safeguarding against fire is to emphasize fire prevention rather than fire fighting.
Nevertheless, it is equally important to provide adequate fire fighting arrangements. This applies
also to associated equipment like bushings, circuit breakers, instrument transformer, cables,
etc., since a fire originating in these can easily spread to the power transformer. In effect, all
the transformer installation should be provided with the prevention as well as fire detection and
fighting systems.
Factors like proximity of the transformer to buildings and other equipment such as switchgear
play an important role in design of the fire prevention scheme. It is desirable that these equipments
be segregated from the transformer installation or be provided with fire prevention measures to
avoid spread of fire to the transformer installations.
A majority of fires originating in transformers are due to inadequate design and installation,
apart from faulty operation and maintenance practices, Proper installation, house keeping and
maintenance can reduce fire hazards to a great extent. Hence, fire hazards must be given utmost
attention while designing, selecting and installing power transformers and correct operation and
maintenance procedures must be adhered to strictly.
2.1 Bushings
Bushings are often the source of transformer failures and consequent fires. This is due to the
fact that dielectric stresses in bushings are very high and sometimes oil tightness may not be
ensured. Only bushings of proven design, which have been fully type tested and have passed all
acceptance tests shall be used, Bushings shall be provided with test taps and regular (annual)
checks of bushing tan delta shall be carried out. Also, the oil level, in oil filled bushings, shall
be checked daily.
373
374 Manual on Transformers
2.2 Tapchanger
Tap changer, particularly on-load type are a potential fire risk. The selection of tap changer
design, and proper maintenance of its mechanism are important. In no case should an off-load
tap changer be operated when the transformer is energised from any of its windings.
The general recommendations for safeguarding power transformers are given below and specific
recommendations arc given in clause 4. The requirement relevant to transformers, in increasing
order of importance of installation are:
The transformers foundation shall be surrounded by a suitable soak pit enclosed by a 150 mm
high non-combustible curb. This soak pit shall be filled with coarse crushed stones about 25 mm
in diameter to a minimum depth of 300 mm. The volume of the soak pit minus the volume of the
stones should be sufficient to contain the entire oil content of the transformer if the oil content is
less than or equal to 5 kl. In case the oil content is more than 5 kl, the volume of soak pit minus
the volume of stones should be sufficient to contain at least one third of the total oil content. The
excess should be led through two or more hume/concrete pipes (min. 150 mm dia.) from bottom
of pit to a central remote burnt oil tank.
Control cables emanating from transformers shall be led through the soak pit through hume
RCC pipes. The marshalling kiosk of the transformer shall be installed outside the pit and away
from the potential fire hazard zone.
Guidelines for Fire Protection of Power Transformers 375
Barrier wall of brick or reinforced cement concrete shall be provided for separation of
transformers wherever adequate space is not available (Refer clause 4). The barriers shall extend
at least 300 mm above the highest transformer bushing and pressure relief vent and lengthwise
600 mm beyond the transformer including any radiators and tap changer enclosures.
Selection of these systems should be based on the importance of an installation. The fire detection
system only detects a fire and sends an alarm, whereas the other systems are active fire fighting
systems. Selection guidelines are given in clause 4.
(a) For indoor installation with oil filled transformers rated at more than 75 kVA, each of
the transformer should be located in a vault. Transformer vaults should preferably have
a minimum fire resistance rating of 3 hours but where transformers are protected by
water spray and Carbon dioxide systems, construction with one hour rating is adequate.
Facilities for remote monitoring of vault temperature shall be provided.
(b) It is recommended that a trapped floor drain be provided which discharges burning oil
to a safe location. A fire door and a noncombustible curb at least 100 mm high should
be provided at each doorway. Switchboards etc. should be physically separated from the
vaults and the latter should never be used as offices, filing cabinets, work rooms etc.
(c) Adequate ventilation should be provided in the transformer vault. Self cooled transformer
should be separated by 600 to 750 mm to permit free air circulation. It is recommended
that air filters be provided on all vents wherever the installation is located in dusty, high
pollution areas. The vent should automatically close in the event of a fire in the vault.
3.3 General
The requirements laid down in Section 5 of Tariff Advisory Committee’s “Regulations for the
Electrical Equipment of Buildings” and Section 7.9 of IS : 10028 (part II) shall be followed for
all transformer installations. In addition, the following measures are recommended for cables:
376 Manual on Transformers
(a) The power cables entering the transformer shall be coated with fire resistant
material in the immediate vicinity of the transformer cable box entry so as to prevent
spreading of fire from or to the transformer cable.
(b) Cable trenches shall be filled with sand to prevent spread of fire.
It is recommended that trenches of more than 1000 cm2 cross-sectional area be provided with
incombustible barriers at intervals not exceeding 45 meters. The barriers shall be at least 50
mm in thickness and of the same height as the cable trench. The cables shall be carried through
holes in the barriers which shall be made good thereafter to prevent passage of fire beyond the
barriers.
A summary of various recommendations for fire protection and fighting systems for indoor and
outdoor transformers is given below:
Multiple transformer of 100 MVA and above may be protected as single units if separated by a minimum of 35 m.
For those separated by a distance between the minimum clearance shown and 35 m transformer protection may be
either a barrier or fixed water spray.
Cables, isolated bus duct, or cable tray penetrating an exposed wall should be sealed with a fire barrier or stop.
Ventilation louvers should be relocated to an unexposed area.
“Wherever water spray nozzles are provided, the nozzle should be separated from the transformer by over 4 in for
voltages below 250 kV. For voltages beyond this and for solid hose streams, this distance varies with factors such
as water pressure, wind velocity and direction, size of nozzle etc.
Notes
1. Combustible and non-combustible buildings are generally classified based on type of construction materials used
and type of occupancy.
2. This protection applies for all new installations and at existing locations when a large loss possibility exists
without improvement.
3. If transformers are of unusual importance or large (above 10 MVA) located within fire resistive transformer houses
or vaults, install fire resistive walls between units to reduce the exposure to adjacent transformers unless automatic
fixed extinguishing systems of 7.5 m clearances are provided.
378 Manual on Transformers
It is essential to monitor certain parameters to check the healthiness of the transformer and to
minimise fire risks. The parameters to be checked and their frequencies shall be as brought out
elsewhere (Section CC) in the transformer manual. Some of the parameters more relevant to
transformer fires are discussed below.
Oil leakage from transformer tank, bushings or radiators may become sources of major fires.
It is recommended that all transformer installations be inspected daily for leakage of oil. Any
leakage detected should be immediately attended to. In case of excessive leakage the transformer
should be de-energised and repair work carried out.
During hot-oil circulation in the transformer, it must be ascertained that all combustible materials
are kept at a safe distance from the transformer. The transformer shall be covered with non-
combustible materials. Under such condition, it is essential that the transformer is kept under
close watch.
Sparks from improper terminal connectors and neighbouring fuses etc., falling on the transformer
can cause great fires. To prevent such occurrences it is recommended that the terminal connectors
be regularly inspected for over-heating/sparking. Infra-red temperature scanners can be used for
this purpose. It is also recommended that fuses be installed at a distance from the transformer
such that sparks generated during their operation will not reach the transformer.
The condition monitoring of transformer oil can give valuable insights into the healthiness
of transformers. It is recommended that dielectric strength, acidity and oil tan delta (90°C)
be monitored continuously and detailed investigation be carried out whenever any of these
characteristics indicate signs of deterioration of oil quality.
5.5 Housekeeping
The importance of good housekeeping and cleanliness in reducing fire hazard cannot be over-
emphasised. Many fires have been caused by oil drips and collection of rags in dirty cluttered
surroundings. It is very important to remove possibilities of such fires, by ensuring that the
installations arc spacious and the vacant spaces are periodically cleaned to remove obstructions
to ventilation and movement of personnel.
In addition to the fire protection systems described above, it is essential to provide primary fire
fighting equipment for every transformer installation. The equipment required for indoor and
outdoor installations should be as per following guidelines :
Guidelines for Fire Protection of Power Transformers 379
Typical size For the first two units For every additional two Units or part
of transformer thereof
45 ltrs. 2 llrs. Sand & 45 ltrs. 2 ltrs. Sand &
foam type from type water foam type from type water
extinguishers extinguishers buckets extinguishers extinguishers buckets
Upto 20 MVA 2 4 2 each 1 2 2 each
(Indoor) (Indoor)
4 each 4 each
(Outdoor) (Outdoor)
Upto 50 MVA 3 6 2 each 2 2 2 each
(Indoor) (Indoor)
4 each 4 each
(Outdoor) (Outdoor)
50 MVA 4 8 6 each 2 2 6 each
Notes
1. The sand and water buckets shall be of 9 litre capacity each and shall have round bottoms.
2. Sandpits of adequate sizes shall be provided in central location for catering to any sand requirements. These pits
should always be kept filled with dry sand.
Some of the major types of fire fighting systems are discussed below:
7.1 Automatic Mulsifire System
This system is widely used for fire fighting of outdoor transformers. Fire detectors located at
various strategic points are used to sense high temperature near the transformer. If the temperature
exceeds the set value the automatic mulsifire system sprays water at a high pressure on the
surface of the transformer to control fire on any burning oil spilled over. Various subsystems are
used to make a complete mulsifire system.
(a) Main Hydrant: This is used to carry the water to various parts of the switchyard or
transformer substation and forms the backbone of the system. Sturdy corrosion free pipes
and valves should be used for this purpose. The materials should be able to withstand fire
for a reasonable duration.
(b) Fire Detectors: Fire detectors can either be thermocouples or specially designed bulbs
which burst when a high temperature is applied and release any valves or checking device
to start the water spray.
(c) Ring Mains and Nozzles: Ring mains which surround the transformer are provided to
feed the water to the nozzles at various levels. Since the water pressure is high, the ring
mains should be designed to withstand this pressure. Nozzles should be located such that
the water spray, in the event of a fire, envelopes the entire surface of the transformer. The
whole system should be periodically checked to detect any leakages.
(d) Pumps: Pumps are provided to fill the hydrants initially and to maintain its pressure.
Pumps driven by electrical motors are a standard provision; however, the standby pumps
should preferably be diesel engine driven. It is recommended that the main and standby
pumps in a pump house be segregated.
380 Manual on Transformers
This system is similar to the mulsifire system but water in this case is sprayed on the transformer
body at lower pressure, Hence the name sprinkler. This system is normally not capable of
extinguishing large fire. For this reason, it is desirable to connect an alarm to the sprinkler
system. Whenever the sprinkler operates an alarm is given to signal requirement of additional fire
fighting arrangement. The auto-starting pump valves and alarm must be periodically checked.
This system is used to cut off the oxygen supply to the burning parts and thereby extinguish
the fire. For this it is essential that the entire surface of the burning part or oil be covered with
foam.
The system includes a foam compound chamber, which contains the compound. In the event of a
fire, this compound comes in contact with water and air to form foam. This foam is then sprayed
onto the burning parts. The compound chamber should be corrosion proof and the valves should
be periodically tested to ensure their healthiness.
7.4 Nitrogen Injection System for Transformers /Reactors 10 Mva and above
Nitrogen injection system shall be used to prevent the transformer explosion and possible fire,
in the case of internal fault and as such acts as fire preventer. In certain cases, tank explosion
cannot be prevented and transformer oil catches fire. In such cases and also in the event of fire by
external causes, it shall act as firefighting system. In either way it shall protect the transformer
and eliminate or minimize the post fire damages. Thus, System shall be suitable for protecting
the transformer tank from explosion and also transformer, OLTC and cable box from fire. The
system operation shall be automatic and also be made to operate with remote control from
control box and manually from extinguishing cubicle in the event of power loss.
7.4.1.1 Operation
On receipt of signals, e.g Differential protection parallel with Fire detector, Buchholz (surge)
parallel with PRV and transformer/reactor isolation signals, a predetermined quantity of oil drain
shall commence and simultaneously Nitrogen shall be injected at a pre-determined flow rate to
create stirring action and to bring down temperature of top oil surface below ignition point and
shall extinguish fire within shortest possible time, say, 30 seconds. Transformer Conservator
Isolation Valve (TCIV) shall block oil passage and isolate conservator tank oil and shall prevent
escalation of fire.
• System shall operate in automatic, remote and manual mode in the event of power
failure.
• System shall have provision of testing on live transformers to ensure healthiness at all
times.
• System shall have interlock to ensure operation of system only after transformer electrical
isolation to avoid nitrogen injection in energized transformer.
Guidelines for Fire Protection of Power Transformers 381
• System shall have mechanical locking arrangement for nitrogen release system as well
as oil drain to avoid unnecessary operation during maintenance and /or testing of the
transformer and /or system.
• System shall have provision to monitor nitrogen injection pressure as well as cylinder
pressure.
• Pressure monitoring switch for back-up protection for nitrogen release as redundancy
to first signal of oil draining commencement for Nitrogen release shall preferably be
provided.
• System shall have individual mechanical release devices and provision for oil drain and
nitrogen release to operate manually in case of operation DC supply failure.
• Nitrogen release scheme shall be designed in such a way that the nitrogen gas shall not
enter the energised transformer/reactor tank even in case of passing/leakage of valve.
• Individual system component/equipment should preferably not have working voltage
other than Station DC Voltage.AC-DC/DC-DC converter shall not be used for reliable
operation.
• All outdoor panels / equipment shall be of IP55 protection class.
Schematic diagram of typical Nitrogen Injection system, is shown in Fig.1
Fig.1
382 Manual on Transformers
Pipe layout of Nitrogen Injection system as suggested by Supplier of Nitrogen injection system
shall be provided by transformer manufacturer typically shown in Fig.2
Fig. 2
Nitrogen injection system shall broadly consist of the following components. However, all other
components which are necessary for fast reliable and effective working of the fire protective
system are also provided.
(a) Fire Extinguishing Cubicle (FEC) : shall be mounted 5-7 m away from transformer /
reactor or placed next to the fire wall if fire wall exists. Cubicle shall be suitable for
outdoor as well as indoor installation. It shall have hugged split doors fitted with high
quality tamper proof lock. Cubicle shall contain nitrogen gas cylinder, mechanism for
oil drain and nitrogen release with essential back up of pressure switch for operation
alongwith control unit
(b) Control box : shall be placed in the control room for monitoring system of operation,
automatic control and remote operation. All individual components,instruments shall
work on station DC supply. Following alarms, indications, switches, push buttons, audio
signals etc. shall be provided : System on, Oil drain valve closed, Gas inlet valve closed,
TCIV(see below) closed, OLTC oil surge relay trip, Oil drain valve open, Extinction in
progress, Cylinder pressure low, Differential/fire detector, Buchholz relay /PRV / RPRR
trip, Master relay of transformer / reactor trip, System out of service, Auto/ Manual /
Guidelines for Fire Protection of Power Transformers 383
Off, Extinction release on / off, Lamp test, Visual/ Audio alarm, Visual/ Audio alarm for
DC supply fail, Fault in cable connecting fault : fire detector, differential relay, Buchholz
relay, PRV / RPRR, transformer /reactor trip, TCIV alarm etc.
(c) Transformer Conservator Isolation Valve : (TCIV) shall be fitted in the conservator pipe
line, between conservator and Buchholz relay shall operate for isolating the conservator
during abnormal flow of oil due to rupture / explosion of tank or bursting of bushing
including tank depressurization during system operation. The valve will not isolate
conservator during normal flow of oil during filtration or filling or refilling, locking
plates shall be provided with handle for pad locking to ensure no movement of valve
position during service and filter position. It shall have proximity switch for remote alarm
and indication glass window for visual inspection similar to Buchholz glass inspection
window for physical checking of the status of valve. The TCIV shall be of the best quality
as malfunctioning of TCIV could lead to serious consequence. The closing of TCIV means
stoppage of breathing of transformer/reactor. Fire survival cable connecting TCIV shall
be terminated in transformer marshalling box.
(d) Fire detectors : shall be specially designed to generate signals after sensing higher
temperature.
(e) Piping : Heavy duty pipe connecting the transformer/reactor tank for oil drain, and for
nitrogen injection shall be provided. Pipes connecting oil tank laid underground, shall be
preferably be galvanized, medium duty.
(f) Cables:Fire survival, copper cables (capable to withstand 750° C.),Fire Retardant Low
Smoke (FRLS), copper cable of 12 core x 1.5 sq. mm and 4 core x 1.5 sq.mm size shall
preferably be used for interconnection.
(a) Oil drain opening with gate valves on transformer / reactor tank at upper portion at ~120
mm from top cover.
(b) Nitrogen injection openings with gate valves on transformer / reactor tank at bottom side
of tank.
(c) Flanges with dummy piece in conservator pipe between Buchholz relay and conservator
tank for fixing TCIV.
(e) Mounting support/ frame on tank side wall for signal box.
L= mm
B= mm
H= mm
A= mm
Bevelled cover Yes No
Distance from Control room to Relay Panel through cable trench mtrs
Additional information :
386 Manual on Transformers
Various other systems are also available for fire fighting of transformers notable among them
being:
Carbon dioxide and clean gas agent system for indoor or enclosed installations.
(a) IS: 10028 (Part II) : Code of practice for selection, installation
and maintenance of transformer.
(b) Tariff Advisory Committee : Regulations for the electrical equipment of
buildings.
(c) BS 5306 Part 4 : Carbon dioxide fire fighting systems.
(d) NFPA-15 : Water spray fixed systems.
(e) NFPA 70 : Fire protection of transformers and
transformer vaults.
(f) Central Electricity Authority, The : Technical standards for constructions of sub
Gazette of India, Extraordinary 2010 stations and switchyards.
: Technical standards for construction of
Thermal Generating Stations.
: Safety provisions for electrical installations
and apparatus of voltage exceeding 650 volts
SECTION FF
Transformers are amongst the most efficient equipment made by mankind and as with all
manmade equipment the power transformer also fails. The reasons for the failures can be
attributed to design, manufacturing, operational and maintenance issues.
Design, manufacturing and process validation is ensured during the routine and type testing of
the transformers at the manufacturer’s works. Over the years the manufacturers have had better
understanding and reduction in the knowledge gap regarding transformer technology and this
led to improved and compact designs. The inclusion of newer tests in the test schedule verify
the enhanced knowledge base.
With rapid growth of the network, increased fault levels and faster ageing, the equipment are
subjected to increased operational stress.
Increased consumer awareness, privatization, competition and profitability has forced utilities
and generation companies to focus on longer life cycles and increased revenue generation from
every investment made.
With the increased cost of acquisition the options of refurbishment and repairs at site have
gained prominence and are commercially lucrative also due to the faster turn around for product
to be back into action.
In this chapter effort has been made to focus on various aspects that need to be kept in mind
when planning for repair at site. The focus areas are diagnosis of the fault and localization of
the fault zone to determine nature and extent of repairs. Based on this assessment the logistic
requirements for the repairs the quantum of work involved and various technicalities involved
in the process are to be carried out.
Performing on-site repairs on a transformer has multiple advantages and the major ones are
described in this section.
2.1.1 The damaged equipment can be brought into service much faster than repairs at the
factory by way of saving in to & fro transportation time as well as completion of repair-to-
commissioning carried out in single set-up.
2.1.2 On-site repair costs considerably less than repair at the factory particularly, for large
power transformers in remote areas.
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390 Manual on Transformers
3.1 The reluctance of the utilities/customers for encouraging repairs at site are listed
below:
(a) Validation techniques of the repair work carried out at site (customers generally have a
mind-set that high voltage test is the only validation procedure and this testing will not be
available in case of repair at site).
(b) Concern about drying out of the transformer at site, after the repairs have been carried out
and the validation of the end point of drying out.
(c) Non-availability of the logistics arrangement which the owner has to necessarily make
for effecting the repair at site and lack of expert manpower to assist in carrying out the
work.
(d) Other reasons could be :
(i) Exorbitant hourly rates of technical manpower deputed by the reputed
manufacturers generally with no ceiling, for carrying out repairs at site.
(ii) Unavailability of suitable storage facility for oil, equipment for drying out of power
transformer at site and other logistics at site.
(iii) Guarantee and warrantee requirement to match that of new transformer or in case
the repairs are carried out under controlled conditions at the factory.
(iv) Unavailability of suitable tooling for carrying out transformer repairs.
(v) Lack of understanding of changes in maintenance methods as transformer insulation
ageing would have occurred.
(vi) Lack of covered high roof space for repairs, since repairs at site need dry and clean
conditions.
(vii) Lack of indepth knowledge about transformer manufacturing, practices and various
stage checks.
(viii) Play safe attitude and not to take any chance on performance after repairs.
(ix) Demonstrated high voltage withstand capacity (as guarantee) of repairs carried
out.
3.2 From the manufacturer end the reluctance is because of the following reasons:
(a) Diversion of manpower and tooling from the regular manufacturing activity.
(b) Lack of confidence on alternative drying out methods and the availability of suitable
instrumentation for quantification.
(c) Other reasons are
(i) Their engineers would have difficult time in delivering results and perform in
conditions not under their control.
(ii) Though no guarantees may have been agreed but reputation of the company remain
at stake.
Guidelines for Repair of Power Transformers at Site 391
(iii) Accuracy and quality of available history & available performance data.
(vi) The quantum of work is double i.e., once for dismantling and the second for
assembly which is generally not well appreciated by the end user.
(vii) Difficulty of duplication of drying out process at site and reliability of instruments/
the data collected.
3.3 Repairs of power transformers at site is controversial and is still a subject of discussion
amongst engineers. While examples of successful repairs of power transformers up to 400 kV
class exist, still most of the utilities and the manufacturers are shy of taking up this activity at
site. One of the most common reasons for the utilities not promoting this activities is the non-
availability of high-voltage test equipment at site for HV testing after repairs. The fact is, that
this is a type test and a manufacturer during the manufacture of the power transformer even at
his works is not using any high voltage tests in the production process or as part of in-process
quality checks.
However, the trend world over is for site repairs. Mobile High Voltage test facilities and mobile
Low frequency heating facilities are being created to address two main issues of Insulation
drying and high voltage testing at site.
Generally repairs involving low volume of oil draining and attending to minor defects in the
transformer like replacing a defective bushing, bushing CT, gasket, bolt or burnt-out connection
at a bushing or small repairs of diverter switches.
These repairs generally involve draining of main tank oil for accessibility to the problem area
and arc mostly in the core-coil assembly i.e., Winding, Core, OLTC selector switch. It involves,
total oil draining, storage, oil filling under vacuum and during out activities for restoration of
the transformer to service.
392 Manual on Transformers
4.2.1 Power transformer repair at site is in no way any different from the repair process
followed at the factory. The repair will be successful if all the quality check parameters adopted
at factory are religiously duplicated at site and so also the tooling and the environment.
4.2.2 The information required for decision on carrying out repair at site is given below :
As soon as the service interruption has taken place restoration of the supply becomes the prime
activity. To determine the health of the transformer and its suitability for the immediate restoration
requires that the condition of the equipment be determined to the maximum possible accuracy.
The manufacturer can also contribute in this assessment. It has been generally observed that after
the disruption has occurred the condition determination is not done systematically as required
for correct assessment. Most of the time it is attributed to lack of equipment, test instruments and
at times required expertise of the available technical persons.
5.1 Record of the system condition at the time of outage as well as immediately before is
one of the most important activity. The load conditions at the time of disruption i.e., the load
current, voltage, the status of the various equipments and protection in service, any fault history
Guidelines for Repair of Power Transformers at Site 393
etc. and also weather condition needs to be recorded. Many failures in transformers have been
found to be due to the abnormal system operation and/or protective device malfunction therefore
the status of all the protections is extremely important and need to be correctly recorded.
5.2 Immediately after the interruption, temperature of the top oil may be recorded, and the
oil samples must be collected for measuring moisture content in oil, Dissolved Gas Analysis
(DGA) and for furfural content specifically for old transformers (in service for more than 10
years). As these tests are trending tests, the earlier test readings will act as reference and help in
reaching some conclusion.
5.3 The fault detection comprises of the combination of the following electrical tests after the
transformer has been shutdown to determine the cause of the failure and the location therefore.
• Magnetising Current.
• Magnetic Balance.
• SFRA signature test
• Voltage Ratio.
• Single Phase Short Circuit Current.
• Winding Resistance.
• Vector Group.
• OLTC Contact Resistance.
• Insulation Resistance and tangent delta of windings and condenser bushings
For diagnostic testing it is mandatory to repeat all the tests in all the possible tap positions
as fault can exist in isolated condition even with normal operating condition. These electrical
tests are indicative of the location of the fault and to further accurately establish the fault some
invasive tests may need to be done. These invasive tests are generally done at the winding level
after isolating the OL TC to further localize the fault and if OLTC is the culprit then also these
invasive tests help in locating the fault.
Condition assessment helps in determining the scope of work and the tests to be followed for
determining the healthiness of the various aspects of the transformer are to be so selected that at
least two diagnostic tests should indicate the same parameters/findings.
5.4 Most of the manufacturers recommend that the testing to determine the condition of the
equipment after operational disruption be done in single phase and/or at reduced or elevated
voltage values to exactly determine the extent of the problem.
Example 1. A fault at 240 volts may be showing no abnormality but when carried out at 2 kV level
can give a totally different value. Magnetising current test and magnetic balance test results have
been known to show variations in values in the case of interturn and interdiscinsulation failures.
Example 2. A high winding resistance value in a winding having the OLTC connected can
mean improper contact for bushing termination or defective joint or improper OLTC contact in
394 Manual on Transformers
the selector switch or the diverter switch. The improper diverter switch contact will reflect in
multiple test results either in the odd position or the even position for in-tank OLTC construction
based on the Dr. Jansen principle. For different OLTC construction the result may reflect in only
one position and may be confusing and require invasive testing.
Example 3. A 160 MVA power transformer in prefect working condition for 15 years is taken
in for overhauling due to low IR values of the insulation. After drying out it is found that the
winding resistance results of the transformer are erratic and indicated some problem. A vigorous
motion given to the tap connections restores winding resistance values to near normal values.
On investigation, stripping the taping of the tap lead joint revealed a burnt out joint and the best
part was that the DGA history of the transformer indicated no problem of this type. The other
finding here was that the transformer was being routinely tested for winding resistance only in
three positions first, nominal and the last position.
5.5 For transformers in the network with history of tripping under fault conditions the
FRA is an invaluable tool for the determination of the condition of the transformer. The FRA
record of the transformer is to be maintained meticulously and after the transformer faces
a tripping, the FRA test is to be conducted to determine any change in the geometry of the
assembly or loss of clamping pressure of the winding. This helps in detecting small changes
so that the repair/refurbishment/overhauling/replacement plan can be done properly to avoid
unpleasant surprises.
6.1 Even some 400 kV class transformers have been successfully overhauled at site involving
changing of old gaskets, changing of oil, drying out of the job for IR value improvement and are
in successful operation. Though not in the repair category it clearly demonstrates the adequacy
of the drying out method, if properly done at site.
6.2 The repair process needs either the involvement of the manufacturer’s engineers or
skilled manpower experienced with similar activity at some manufacturing location. Different
repair activities require different materials, tooling and facilities. The facility requirement is also
governed by the manufacturing methodology adopted for the transformer manufacturing. Large
power transformers are generally manufactured in three different configurations
Major repairs in the core coil assembly are categorized in to three main types :
During the repair activity some improvements or refurbishment can be also done to increase the
reliability of the equipment and ensure trouble free operation.
6.4.1 Most power stations are adequately equipped for handling large and heavy weight equipment/
transformer and generally have a Service-bay equipped with crane and working area. In case of
non-availability of overhead crane facility, adequate crane capacity needed for the repairs should be
determined and hired out. At this point of time the need is to assess the following :
(i) Location where the refurbishment is to be carried out, preferably covered space.
(ii) Adequate space availability for dismantling the transformer and storage of the dismantled
transformer parts.
(iii) Crane of adequate capacity with enough working space by height clearance.
(iv) The selected area should be dry, away from any open source of water, dust free and shall
allow additional covering if necessary.
(v) Power supply point of adequate capacity for lighting and supply for various equipment
operations like hydraulic crimping tools, brazing machines, pneumatic spanners heating,
filter machines etc.
(vi) The power supply should not be very near either as it is a fire hazard in case of any
problems with the supply wire or electrical equipment failure. Generally the supply should
have ELCB protection facility.
396 Manual on Transformers
Transformer manufacturers use various types of tank covers and each one has its own typicality
of handling. Some of the points to be taken care of when planning for the crane and lifting
facilities are given below :
(vi) Top cover should be inspected for unbalance load distribution and all mountings on the
top cover should be removed.
(vii) The mobile crane should be rated at least 50 % more than the maximum load to be
lifted.
(viii) Four nos. slings having total load lifting capacity atleast twice the maximum load to be
lifted.
(ix) The OLTC will be mounted on the top cover but resting fork will be fitted on to the end
frame.
• For Top Covers with the Active Part Fitted to it
These are nearly similar to the transformers with the top cover type and the main consideration
is that the weight to be lifted is now the weight of the active part plus the weight of the top cover.
Also in these type of transformers OLTC etc. are all mounted on to the top cover and weight
eccentricity can be experienced. The transformer is to be first inspected from inside and then
the slings of different lengths may have to be used for balancing the same during the lifting of
the job.
The place selected to carry out the repair and/or refurbishment activity should preferably be
covered, but in case of unavailability of such space then a temporary cover around the transformer
may have to be built such that the top of the same is removable and the crane hook can be
brought in after removing the cover and the required activity is carried out. Also at some places
it will be preferable to build a temporary cover such that the same can be rolled out to expose
the transformer for work requiring crane access and then rolled back to cover the transformer
again.
The area/location for repair/refurbishment activity of the transformer should have adequate
space so as to store the removed fitments from the transformer at the same place. Generally
when the transformer is disassembled for repair/refurbishment lot of fittings and mountings on
the transformer cover will have to be dismantled. Internally the active part may be earthed to the
tank and in some of the older designs of temperature sensors the WTI CT are mounted as part
of the active part and the CT connections for the heater are terminated at the end of the pocket
as the heater is part of the pocket and not part of the meter. Also the place should not be near to
any source of open water and also no water dripping should occur near by. The other facilities
for site repair of the transformers and related requirements are tabulated below:
398 Manual on Transformers
8 Safety (i) As the transformer active part insulation is a combination of paper soaked in oil it
is a potential fire hazard and should never be left unattended.
(ii) All lighting fixtures are to be of cool daylight type.
(iii) No electrical connections arc to be made by twisting wires, they are to be made by
male female connectors.
(iv) Joints of wires taped with insulation tapes should be of bright colours so that any
heating could be detected easily by discolouration.
(v) The whole enclosure is a no smoking zone.
(vi) Fire extinguishers both, of Dry chemical powder and CO2 gas type arc to be located
such that there are no obstacles in the path.
(vii) Asbestos sheets should be available handy to cover any ignited surface.
(viii) No inflammable material should be stored near the work area.
(ix) There should be no fire source near the work area.
9 Safety aspects Working within the transformer require special skills, some of the common and important
related to safety measures are:
working (i) All tools being taken inside the transformer tank must be tied at one end with some
inside the object outside the transformer tank or to the wrist of the person going to work inside
transformer the transformer.
(ii) For climbing in and out of the transformer it is mandatory that rope ladders be used
for climbing in and out of the transformer. At no point of time metallic ladders
should be used as slipping can cause damage to manpower or the active part.
(iii) Person working on or within the transformer should not carry anything metallic in
the pockets like loose change, pens etc. All watches etc. are to be removed before
entering the transformer tank.
(iv) The clothes worn during the visit inside the transformer should not contain any
metallic buttons etc. Also the belts are to be left outside as generally they contain
metallic buckles.
(v) Movement within the transformer should be very carefully done, so that body
weight is not put on any cleates or various supports used within the transformer.
(vi) The active part should not be disturbed without marking the present position at two
or three reference points so that the various clearance are maintained as per the.
manufacturer recommendations.
(vii) No body weight should be put on the various connection leads of the winding to the
bushing, tap coil to the OLTC etc.
(viii) Any new material being fitted within the transformer particularly insulation
materials made of pressboard or permawood should be first dried in a oven at 90°
C for minimum of 12 hours preferably in a vacuum oven and then soaked in filtered
oil for an equal duration. Thicker items require longer soaking time.
The connection phase consists of joining of the winding to various cables and their further
termination on to the OLTC/OCTC or to the various bushings. For the termination of the winding
to cables and the subsequent connection two process have been followed:
• Jointing by brazing.
• Jointing by crimping.
400 Manual on Transformers
As the repair unit is generally oil soaked the repair by crimping is a better method. For jointing by
brazing, resistance brazing for smaller dimension cables and copper conductors can be followed
but for large dimension cables and multiple parallel conductors flame brazing is followed. The
flame brazing process is well established and highly skilled workers arc required with adequate
provision for safety to avoid any incident of fire hazard. The process also entails surrounding the
nearby oil soaked insulation with asbestos sheets. After the brazing has been carried out the joint
is to be cleaned of all bum marks and the brazing material spatters the joint is filed to bring about
smooth finish so as to avoid any sharp points and subsequent damage to the taping.
The crimping method is a cleaner and a safer process because no heating is involved but it
requires custom designed ferrules and sockets to be crimped on and the crimping machine and
joint qualification be carried out before the start of the jointing process.
This is a grey area in repairs but a mandatory process is to be followed for any repair jobs for the
successful completion of the repair process. Various manufacturers have their recommendations
regarding the methods to be followed for this process. A standard recommendation could be
that after completion of drying out process the transformer is to be oil filled and the insulation
soaked in for duration of 24 hours. After that the oil be drained and the job extracted and the
coils clamped to required height. The job is then retanked and the drying out process repeated
for 2 more cycles before final oil filling and circulation and preparation of the job for testing and
final commissioning. The above mentioned recommendations are based on site experiences.
A tentative list of tools required for the activities related to transformer repairing at site is given
below:
8.1 Tools
2. D shackles -1 ton
3. D shackles -5 ton
8. Pump- 1/2 hp
Guidelines for Repair of Power Transformers at Site 401
9. Pump - 3 hp + starter
17 Sledge hammer - 5 kg
18 Hammer - 1 kg
19 Mallet
29 Welding machine
30 Drilling machine
31 Grinding machine
3 Brazing machine
4 Brazing rods
10 Fans
11 Torches
12 Vacuum cleaners
2 Megger 1 kV
3 Megger 5 kV motorised
4 Ratio meter
6 Multimeters
9 Clampmeters
10 Variac 1 ph and 3 ph
11 Continuity tester.
31 Undelible markers
32 Tags (fibre)
33 String roll
35 Tarpaulins (large)
Various methods are prevalent for carrying out the final drying out activity at site after the
repairs have been completed. Some of them are briefly discussed below:
In this method the active part is heated up by blowing in hot air into the tank and the temperature
of the active part is raised to a higher temperature of around 70° to 75° celcius and then vacuum
pulling is done for extraction of moisture from the insulating materials. Multiple cycles of
heating and vacuum pulling, are carried out till the termination criteria is reached. Oxygen
present in the hot air has a tendency to oxidize the thinner insulation faster than the thicker
insulation. This method is not recommended for CCA above 66 kV class.
Inthis method hot air is blown into the main tank and the active part is heated up, the temperature
of the hot air is themlostatically controlled at the blower end at around 70° to 75° Celsius and
Guidelines for Repair of Power Transformers at Site 405
the drying process is continued in this manner. This method is adapted for transformers whose
tank cannot withstand high vacuum. The hot air removes moisture from the insulation of the
active part and the vapour pressure difference ensures removal of moisture from the insulating
material to the hot air. The presence of hot oxygen in hot air tends to oxidize the thin insulation
faster than the thick insulation. The process is continued till the termination criteria is achieved.
This method is recommended only for 33 kV class CCA and below.
10.3 Heating in Inert Environment and Vacuum Pulling
In this the transformer tank is first evacuated and then filled with dry N2 gas and the active part
heated up by applying external heat to the tank body. The heating can be by means of Halogen or
infrared lamps or by winding some turns of cable on the tank body and passing low voltage and
high current through the cable. The temperature of the active part is raised between 80° to 90°
Celsius and then vacuum pulled on the tank for faster extraction of moisture from the active part
insulation. Due to the inert atmosphere this is the most widely adopted method and this ensures
that the oxidation of the insulation paper is minimized. Multiple heating and vacuum cycles are
repeated till the proper drying out criteria is achieved.
In this method the heating of the active part is carried out by circulation of hot oil. The maximum
temperature of the oil can be 60° Celsius. On reaching the desired temperature the oil is drained
very fast from the tank and vacuum applied on the tank. The fast draining is necessary to
minimize the heat loss during the oil draining operation. The heating of the oil is carried out by
high vacuum oil filter machine and during the process the moisture carried by the oil is removed
during the passage through the filter machine. Multiple heating and vacuum cycles are repeated
till suitable drying out criteria is achieved.
In this method hot oil is sprayed on to the active part through pipes mounted inside the tank with
multiple nozzles in them. During this process vacuum is also applied into the tank to remove the
moisture from the insulating material. The heating through oil spray is limited to again up to 60
degrees for the oil but this method is least prevalent as the installation of spray pipe is required
inside the tank, but widely followed in the eastern European countries. The main advantage of
this process is the simultaneous flushing of the moisture from the insulation by the oil and also
the cleaning of the insulation due to the oil flow on the insulation.
Generally used for small transformers upto 10 MVA and 33 kV class of transformers where the
insulation mass is not much and the tank is not designed to withstand full vacuum. Generally
special transformers like furnace and rectifier transformers are also in this category of transformers
and the oil does the heating and also the moisture removal from the insulation.
406 Manual on Transformers
The termination criteria for the drying out process is expressed differently by different manufacturers
but they are all aimed towards achieving good dry insulation which ensures trouble free operation
of the equipment. The moisture content in the insulation is kept at around 0.5% of the insulation
weight for new transformers at the time of manufacturing. But for older transformers the moisture
content is kept between 1 to 2 % of the weight of the insulation, as beyond this value there is a
chance of the thin paper insulation getting brittle during the heating and vacuum pulling process.
Some of the common methods of measurement of the termination criteria are:
Measurement of the insulation resistance values through the drying out process and this
is generally followed for small transformers and those being dried out by hot air or hot oil
circulation. The IR curve has a tendency to follow the bath tub curve and the subsequent
calculation of the Polarization Index values form the Insulation resistance values.
The dew point of the dry gas generally N2 is taken before the same is injected into the tank and
the value should be around -60° Celsius. It is then held inside the tank for 24 hours to achieve
vapour phase balance and then again measure the dew point value. Dew point values at around
-25° celsius at a temperature 40° celsius are considered satisfactory but lower the value better is
the drying out. The process needs to be repeated with fresh dry gas everytime till the termination
criteria is achieved.
Generally followed for transformers being dried out with oil circulation and oil being used for
heating of the insulation. Voltage should not be applied to the active part under vacuum. The
tandelta measurement should be done after oil filling, circulation and standing time. Tan delta
values of 0.5 are considered to be good values for termination of the process.
Another method is the measurement of the water extraction rate during the vacuum pulling
process applied after the heating phase. The rate of water extraction after certain duration is
measured and the acceptable value of around 30 to 50 ml/hour/ton of insulation would be
considered sufficient for termination of the process. One school of thought advocates the
measurement of the water extraction rate of 100 ml/hr, reading repeated for 3 consecutive hourly
readings irrespective of the quantum of the insulation.
Termination criteria as recommended by the manufacturer can be considered as the final say
in the matter and multiple measurements can be carried out to confirm the achievement of the
Guidelines for Repair of Power Transformers at Site 407
termination criteria. The factory based drying out process using HAV or vapour phase method
has the termination criteria of 30 gms /hour/ton of water extraction rate
Refurbishment can be defined as an activity undertaken to improve the existing condition of the
transformer or transformer insulation.
(i) Over loading the existing transformers with additional coolers and increased condition
monitoring with insulation refurbishment.
(ii) Refurbishment of the transformer.
11.1 Requirement for Option (i) above
(a) For the new loading, recalculation of the temperature rises of the top oil and the windings
temperature for the 145, 245 & 420 kV class transformers.
(b) Check the extent of the excess over the permitted / standardized values.
(c) If additional cooling keeps the temperature within the permitted value then the existing
winding can be used with minimum risk.
(d) Parallely the diagnostic testing to determine the residual life of the transformer insulation,
the present condition of the insulation and the mechanical condition of the active part
should also be done.
11.2 Requirement for Option (ii) above
When the calculated temperature rise of the windings exceed permissible limits and extra
cooling is not effective but the condition of the insulation indicate high residual life, the best
effective situation could be:
(a) Improving the insulation condition of the transformer with no replacement of oil and the
condition assessment and RLA indicates significantly good condition.
(b) Improving the insulation condition of the transformer with replacement of oil as the oil
condition is beyond improvement by filtration and RLA indicates good life condition.
(c) Improving the insulation condition of the transformer and also minor changes to accessories
for up-rated operation.
(d) Improving the insulation condition of transformer with major overhauling and repairs of
the transformer for up-rated operation.
11.3 The Main Activities/Benefits of Refurbishment one listed below:
11.3.1 Activities
11.3.2 Benefits
1.1 When specified, each transformer shall be provided with off-circuit tap changing switch
or off-circuit links for varying its effective ratio of transformation whilst the transformer is de-
energised and without producing phase displacement.
1.2 The off-circuit switch handle will be provided with a locking arrangement along with tap
position indicator, thus, enabling the switch to be locked in position. A warning plate indicating
that switch shall be operated only when the transformer is de-energised shall be fitted.
2.1 When specified, each transformer shall be provided with voltage control equipment of
the tap changing type for varying its effective transformation ratio whilst the transformers are
on-load and without producing phase displacement.
2.2 Equipment for local and remote electrical and local manual operation shall be provided
and shall comply with the following conditions. Local remote switch may be housed in remote
control panel or in tap changer driving unit.
2.2.1 It shall not be possible to operate the electric drive when the manual operating gear is in
use.
2.2.2 It shall not be possible for any two electric controls to be in operation at the same time.
2.2.3 The equipment shall be suitable if specified for supervisory control and indication on
multi-way switch, make-before-break, having one fixed contact for each tap position, shall
be provided and when specified, wired to the tapchanger drive gear. This switch shall be
provided in addition to any which may be required for remote tap position indication purposes.
Supervisory indication shall also be provided when specified in the form of contacts to close
on “Tapchange incomplete”. All other components of the supervisory gear if required will be
specified separately.
2.2.4 Operation from the local of remote control switch or push button shall cause one tap
movement only until the control switch or push button is returned to the off position between
successive operations.
2.2.5 All electrical control switches and the local operating gear shall be clearly labelled in a
suitable manner to indicate the direction of tapchanging.
2.2.6 The local control switches shall be mounted in the marshalling box, or driving gear
housing.
411
412 Guidelines for Voltage Control of Power Transformers
2.3 The equipment shall be so arranged as to ensure that when a tapchange has been
commenced it shall be completed independently of the operation of the control relays or
switches. If a failure of the auxiliary supply during a tapchange or any other contingency such
as tapchanger getting stuck would result in that movement not being completed, adequate means
shall be provided to safeguard the transformer and its auxiliary equipment.
2.4 Suitable apparatus shall be provided for each transformer to give indications as
follows:
2.4.1 To give indication, mechanically at the transformer and electrically at the remote control
point if specified, of the number of the tapping in use on the transformer.
2.4.2 To give an indication at the remote control point that a tapchange is in progress, by
means of an illuminated lamp.
2.5 For remote control, the switches, push button tap position indicator, etc., shall all be
supplied as loose apparatus unless a remote control panel is specified.
2.6 All relays and operating devices shall operate correctly, at any voltage between the limits
specified in the relevant Indian Standard.
2.7 The tapchanging switches and mechanism shall be mounted in oil tanks or compartments
mounted in an accessible position on the transformer tank.
2.8 Any enclosed compartment not oil filled shall be adequately ventilated. Metal clad
thermostatically controlled heaters shall be provided in the driving mechanism chamber and in
the marshalling box. All contactors, relay coils or other parts shall be suitably protected against
corrosion or deterioration due to condensation, fungi, etc.
2.9 The tap changer contacts which are not used for making or breaking current like
separate selector switch contacts can be located inside main transformer tank where tapchanger
construction permits such an arrangement. On load tapchangers having separate compartment
for selector contacts, the oil in such compartment shall be maintained under conservator head
by means of pipe connection from the highest point of the chamber to the conservator. Such
connection shall be controlled by suitable valve and shall be arranged so that any gas leaving the
chamber will pass into the gas and oil actuated relay. A separate buchholz relay may be provided
for this compartment.
2.10 It shall not be possible for the oil in these compartments of the tapchange equipment,
which contain contacts used for making or breaking current, to mix with the oil in the
compartments containing contacts not used for making or breaking current.
2.11 Any ‘DROP DOWN’ tanks associated with the tapchanging apparatus shall be fitted
with guide rods to control the movement during lifting or lowering operations. The guide rods
shall be so designed as to take support of the associated tank when in the fully lowered position
Guidelines for Voltage Control of Power Transformers 413
with oil. Lifting gear fitted to ‘DROP DOWN’ tanks shall include suitable device to prevent run-
away during lifting and lowering operations. They shall be provided with adequate breathing
arrangement. If specified the tapchanger shall be mounted in such a way that the cover of the
transformer can be lifted without removing connections between windings and tapchanger.
2.12 Each compartment in which the oil is not maintained under conservator head shall be
provided with a suitable direct reading oil gauge.
2.13 The alternating supply for electrical operation of the control and indicating gear shall be
standard 415 volts, three-phase, 3 wire, 50 Hz, along with 240 volts single phase, 2 wire 50 Hz,
subject to a variation of + 10 per cent so that the equipment offered can withstand variation in
A.C.
2.14 Limit switches shall be provided to prevent over running of the mechanism and except
where modified in clause 2.15 shall be directly connected in the circuit of the operating motor.
In addition a mechanical stop or other approved device shall be provided to prevent over-running
of the mechanism under any condition.
2.15 Limit switches may be connected in the control circuit of the operating motor provided
that a mechanical declutching mechanism incorporated.
2.16 Thermal devices or other means like motor circuit breakers with shunt tripcoil shall
be provided to protect the motor and control circuits. All relays, switches, fuses, etc., shall be
mounted in the marshalling box or driving gear housing and shall be clearly marked for purposes
of identification. They shall withstand the vibration associated with tapchanger gear operation.
2.17 The control circuits shall operate at 110 V single phase to be supplied from a transformer
having a ratio of 415 or 240/55-0-55 V with the centre point earthed through a removable link
mounted in the marshalling box or tapchanger drive.
2.18 The whole of the apparatus shall be of robust design and capable of giving satisfactory
service without undue maintenance under the conditions to be met in service, including frequent
operation.
2.19 A five-digit counter shall be fitted to the tapchanging mechanism to indicate the number
of operations completed by the equipment.
2.20 A permanently legible lubrication chart shall be fitted within the driving mechanism
chamber, where applicable.
2.21 Loose equipments shall be supplied for mounting on the purchaser’s control panel and
the control panel will be additionally supplied as and when required by the purchaser.
414 Guidelines for Voltage Control of Power Transformers
3.1 Besides the local and remote electrical control specified in clause 2 on-load tapchangers,
when specified, should be suitable for remote electrical parallel control as in clause 3.2.
3.2.1 In addition to the methods of control as in clause 2, the following additional provision
shall be made.
3.2.2 Suitable selector switch be provided, so that anyone transformer of the group can at a
time be selected as ‘Master’, ‘Follower’ or ‘Independent’.
3.2.3 Necessary interlock blocking independent control when the units are in parallel, shall be
provided.
3.2.4 The scheme will be such that only one transformer of a group can be selected as
‘Master’.
3.2.5 An out-of-step device shall be provided for each transformer which shall be arranged to
prevent further tapchanging when transformers in a group operating in ‘Parallel control’ are
one tap out-of-step.
(i) Non-automatic independent-as per Scheme 1. The scheme used for independent control
from local or remote panel.
(ii) Non-auto/automatic independent-as per Scheme 2. The scheme used for independent
control with automatic voltage control relay and line drop compensation as optional. If
required non-auto condition can be availed.
(iii) Non-automatic simultaneous parallel operation-as per Scheme 3. The scheme used for
non-automatic simultaneous parallel operation.
(iv) Non-auto/automatic simultaneous parallel opcration-as per Scheme 4, Sheet 1 and 2.
The scheme used for automatic simultaneous parallel operation with facility for use with non-
auto condition also. Sheet I of the Scheme represents main control scheme and with sheet 2 line
drop compensation control scheme can be achieved as optional.
4.2 General
Local control items shall be mounted inside the on-load tapchanger driving mechanism or
marshalling box. Remote control items are to be mounted on remote control cubicle installed in
Guidelines for Voltage Control of Power Transformers 415
the control room. All the control items are to be mounted in easily accessible position and clearly
labelled. AH the control item shall be of best quality and or class most suitable for working
under the conditions specified and shall withstand the variation of temperatures and atmospheric
condition arising under working conditions so also withstand vibrations. All the control items
shall be wired and connected as per ‘Schematic Diagram of tapchanger control equipment given
in Scheme 1.
4.3 Motor
On-load tap changer driving gear Motor shall be of squirrel cage totally enclosed type and shall
comply with Indian Standard IS: 325. It shall be suitable for direct starting and continuous
running from 415 volts 3-phasc or 240 volts single phase 50 Hz supply. Motor shall be capable
of continuous operation at any frequency between 48 and 51.5 Hz together with any voltage
within 10 per cent of nominal value. Motor shall have ball or roller bearing and vertical spindle
416 Guidelines for Voltage Control of Power Transformers
Guidelines for Voltage Control of Power Transformers 417
418 Guidelines for Voltage Control of Power Transformers
Guidelines for Voltage Control of Power Transformers 419
420 Guidelines for Voltage Control of Power Transformers
Guidelines for Voltage Control of Power Transformers 421
motor shall have bearing capable of withstanding thrust due to the weight of the moving parts.
The stator windings shall be adequately braced and suitably impregnated to render them non-
hygroscopic.
The overload protection relay shall be of robust, adjustable triple-pole construction. It should
provide accurate and reliable protection against overload, single phasing, over heating and
short circuit. The relay should be provided with temperature compensating device to off-set the
effect of ambient temperature variation. For single phase motor, over-load protection device
with feature similar to those of the three-phase motor as far as these are applicable shall be
provided.
4.5 Contactors/Relays
Contactors/Relays shall be of robust and compact construction and shall comply with Indian
Standard IS : 2959. The electromagnetically operated air break type contactor with sufficient
number of contacts shall be suitable for mounting on a vertical supporting structure.
The contactors shall be suitable for operation at 110 Volts A.C.-15 per cent to + 10 per cent 50
Hz. Main and auxiliary contacts of contactor shall be suitably rated. For sufficient long life these
contacts shall be break type and shall make contacts practically bounce-free.
The control supply transformer shall be single phase having ratio 240/55-0-55 or415/55-0-55.
Its insulation shall be suitably impregnated to render it non-hygroscopic.
All the control selector switches shall be of robust and compact construction and shall comply
with Indian Standard IS : 4064 and 4047. The control switches shall be suitable for on-load
switching of resistive and inductive loads. The switches shall incorporate multi air brcak type
wiping contacts housed in an assembly of packets moulded from anti tracking material. The
knob of the handle of the switch shall be suitably designed so that while operating a firm grip
is obtained.
Remote tap position indicator mounted on remote control panel shall show accurately same
tap position as indicated by local tap position indicator on on-load tap changer. The remote
indication can be by means of an analogue indicator, or digital indicator or by means of lamp
indications. Transmitter switch in the driving gear shall be make before break type. This
switch in the driving gear shall be mounted in accessible position so that it can be cleaned and
maintained regularly. The remote indicator mounted on control panel shall not be affected by
normal auxiliary voltages supply variation.
422 Guidelines for Voltage Control of Power Transformers
Necessary indicating lamps provided shall be of low watt consumption and of filament type
or Neon or LED type. Lamps shall be of such construction so that these can be replaced very
easily.
Space heater of adequate capacity and robust construction shall be provided inside each control
cabinet to prevent moisture condensation. Space heaters shall be rated for 240 volts 1 phase, 50
Hz supply. Heater shall be complete with miniature circuit breaker or “ON-OFF” switch. HRC
fuse on phase and link on the neutral. Mounting of the heater and its location shall not cause
localized intensive heating of control equipment and wiring.
4.11 Wiring
All the wiring shall be carried out for motor circuit with 1100 volts grade PVC insulated stranded
copper conductors of size 2.5 sq mm and for control circuit with 650 volts grade PVC insulated
copper conductor of size 1.5 sq mm suitable for tropical atmosphere. All wiring shall be in
accordance with relevant IS. Engraved / printed core identification ferrules, marked to correspond
with the wiring diagram shall be fitted at both ends of each wire. Ferrules shall fit tightly on the
wires and shall not fall off when the wire is removed. All wiring shall be terminated on terminal
blocks through suitable lugs. Insulated sleeves shall be provided at all the wire terminations.
All wiring shall be neatly bunched and cleated without affecting access to equipment mounted
within the cabinet.
One piece moulded 1100 V grade terminal blocks complete with insulation barriers, terminal
studs, washers, nuts and lock nuts shall be used. Terminal blocks shall be numbered for
identification and grouped according to function. 10 per cent spare terminal blocks for control
wire termination shall be provided on each panel.
Terminal board rows should be spaced adequately apart to permit convenient access to wires
and terminations.
Terminal boards shall be so placed with respect to the cable gland plate (at a minimum distance
of 70 mm) as to permit satisfactory arrangement of multicore cable tails without undue stress or
bends. Opening of door should not disturb or stress the wire termination.
(i) Introduction: Voltage Regulating Relay is used for regulating the secondary voltage of
power transformers with on-load tapchangers. The required dead band settings are set
by setting the nominal value, and lower and upper levels independently. The time delay
setting on the front panel eliminates the relay operations for momentary fluctuations of the
regulated voltage thus reducing the number of operations of the tap changer. “
Guidelines for Voltage Control of Power Transformers 423
When the regulated voltage falls below the specified under voltage limit, the control\
relays are automatically blocked, i.e., there is no voltage correction, and a pair of contacts
is made available for alarm.
(ii) General Description: Voltage regulating relay should be designed for maximum
operational simplicity for regulating the secondary voltage of power transformer with
onload tapchangers. The deadband (band width) can be set by setting the nominal value
adjustment (NVA) to the required value “110V+10 per cent”.
The desired time delay can be set on the front panel and the control action will take place only
if the voltage continues to remain outside the deadband after the time delay has elapsed. For
voltage corrections requiring more than one tap change, time delay is initiated again before
further tapchange. The relay is reset automatically after the voltage is brought within the selected
deadband. For repeated short duration voltage fluctuations on the same side of the deadband, the
time delay is effectively reduced to provide a voltage time integral response of the regulator.
Operation of the Raise Control relay is automatically inhibited when the voltage falls below the
specified under-voltage limit. One pair of normally open relay contacts are provided to effect
the tapchanger, Raise and Lower operation and to trigger an alarm in case of undervoltage
conditions.
(iii) Specifications
I The Line Drop Compensator is an optional unit designed to match with the Automatic
Voltage Regulator Relay. The unit is housed in the same enclosure or separately mounted.
The voltage at the generating end and at thereceiving end are not the same due to the drop across
the line. The LDC is used to compensate for this line drop, and the amount of compensation
required is calculated as a per cent of the nominal voltage knowing the length of the line, its
resistance/unit length, its reactance/unit length and the rated current, and set on the front panel.
The line current is stepped down to 1 Amp. and fed to the LDC. The resistive and reactive
drops are simulated by having 90° phase shifted voltage and their polarity selected by polarity
switches. The net compensation is then fed to the stepped down PT voltage.
II Specifications
Resistive Compensation : 0-20 per cent of the regulating value continuously adjustable.
Reactive Compensation : 0-20 per cent of the regulating value continuously adjustable.
Input Rated Current : 1 Amp. 50 Hz.
Power Consumption : As required (CT burden will depend on power consumption).
Accuracy : 10 per cent.
Max. Overcurrent : 50 per cent of rated current (1.5 Amp.)
Polarity Selection : Both positive and negative compensation.
Connection to the LDC unit are made through the rear panel terminals. The line current is
stepped down to 1 Amp. 50 Hz and fed to the LDC. The net compensation is fed to the AVR
circuit, internally or external connections.
The required amount of percent R and per cent X compensation can. be set on the front panel of
the LDC. The polarity selector switches provide both positive and negative compensation. The
per cent R and per cent X settings can be calculated from the following formulae:
√3ILRL
Per cent R = ________ x 100 per cent
VL
Guidelines for Voltage Control of Power Transformers 425
√3I1XL
Per cent X = ––––––––– X 100 per cent
V,
Note : When LDC unit is not to be used, keep per cent R and per cent X settings to Zero, i.e., on min. position.
The parallel scheme is prepared keeping in mind that any one of the on-load tapchanger is
selected to the master position and the other to the follower position. This is being done by
selector switch SSS provided on control cubicles for each transformer. With selector switches
SSS in their respective position as above bus wires N 504 and N 505 become source of supply
to the OLTC control circuits of all the transformers. Selecting Local/Remote switches CSS in
remote position one can press Master unit push button RPB or LPB, for desired raise or lower
operation, a direct impulse for Raise or Lower goes to Master unit OLTC. Also through Master
unit selector switch SSS the bus wires N 506 or N 507 energize and transmit Raise or Lower
impulse to follower OLTC unit through their own selector switch SSS.
Out-of-step circuit is designed on the principle of odd/even position of on-load tap changers.
Through the link provided on first unit between bus wire N 504 and N 513 bus wire N 518
becomes source of supply to out-of-step relays of all the units. Under normal working condition
the out-of-step relays of all the units are energised.
The out-of-step relays of all the follower units get supply from bus wire N 511 or N 512 through
their own odd/even switch OSS. The bus wire N 511 or N 512 gets supply from bus wire N 515
through Master units selector switch SSS and odd/even switch OSS. The out-of-step relay of
Master unit gets supply from bus wire N 518 through selector switches SSS and contacts of out-
of-step relays of follower units.
When any of the on-load tapchanger from group lags behind by one step or moves ahead by one
step, for what so ever the reason may be, creates condition of out-of-step of transformers running
in parallel. Under the out-of-step condition the supply to the out-of-step relay is cutoff and hence
it gets de-energised and one of its contactenergises a time delay relay TDR which initiate visual
and audible alarm.
426 Guidelines for Voltage Control of Power Transformers
Automatic control feature is used to keep voltage constant at desired level, 110 volts 2 wire
PT supply should be arranged as input to AVC relay. OSS switch is to be set on auto mode by
which AVC relay circuit comes into operation. The setting are to be done as required prior to
commissioning the relay.
The feature to be used along with AVC relay to compensate for the voltage drop across the line
and to maintain desired voltage at receiving end. Input to LDC device through secondary current
1 Amp. from line CT and output from LDC is connected with AVC. Suitable adjustments for line
resistive and reactive compensation to be made on LDC to suit.
SECTION HH
This section of the Transformer Manual covers recommended protection schemes for distribution
and power transformers. This part specification does not purport to include all necessary
provisions of a contract. For general requirements, ratings and tests reference shall be made to
other sections of the Transformer Manual.
2.1 Pole mounted distribution transformers of capacities ranging from 16 kVA to 200 kVA
with voltage ratio of 11000/433-250 volts shall have the protection as given in Table 1.
Table 1
2.2 Ground mounted distribution transformers of capacities ranging from 200 kVA to 1600
kVA with voltage ratio of 11000/433, 33000/433 and 33000/11000 volts shall have the protection
as given in Table 2. However, wherever circuit breakers are provided following protections are
recommended:
2.2.1 DMT type over current and earth fault relay and if required, delayed neutral earth fault
protection to take care of high resistance faults in the outgoing feeders/transformer LT cable can
be provided.
2.2.2 Oil temperature indicator with one electrical contact for alarm or trip shall be provided
for distribution transformers of capacities 1000 kVA onwards. Winding temperature indicator
with two electrical contacts for alarm and trip can be specified by purchaser as an optional item
for distribution transformers of capacities 1000 kVA onwards.
2.2.3 Buchholz relay with alarm and trip contacts shall be provided for transformer of capacity
1000 kVA onwards.
Table 2
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430 Manual on Transformers
2.3 The 33 kV and 11 kV windings of the distribution transformers located outdoors and
connected to overhead lines shall be protected by lightning arrestors.
3.1 12 kV Class Power transformers with capacities ranging above 1600 kVA as covered in
Section D of Transformer Manual shall have the following protection :
• IDMT over current and earth fault relay shall be provided on the 11kV side.
• IDMT over current and earth fault relay shall be provided on the secondary side and if
required, delayed neutral earth fault protection to take care of high resistance faults in
the outgoing feeders/Transformer LT cable can be provided
• Buchholz relay with alarm and trip contact.
• Winding temperature indicator with alarm and trip contacts, pressure relief device with
trip contact shall be provided. However, oil temperature indicator with alarm and trip
contacts, oil level indicator with alarm contact can be specified by the purchaser as
optional items.
• Lightning arrestors on both primary and secondary sides when the transformer is located
outdoors and connected to overhead lines.
4.1 36 kV class power transformers of capacities ranging from 3.15 MVA and above as
included in Section ‘E’ of the Transformer Manual shall have the following protection :
5.1 72.5 kV class Power Transformers with capacities as covered in Section ‘E’ of
Transformer Manual shall have the following protection :
6.1 145 kV class power transformers with capacities as covered in Section ‘F’ of Transformer
Manual and 245 kV class power transformers with capacities as covered in Section ‘G’ of
Transformer Manual shall have the following protection :
• Lightning arrestors on both primary and secondary sides when the transformer is located
outdoors and is connected to the overhead lines.
• Pressure relief device with trip contact.
• Winding temperature indicator with four electrical contacts for (a) alarm (b) trip (c)
control of fan and pumps for transformers above 10 MVA can be specified by the
purchaser
• Transformer fire protection trip and isolation of power supply to cooling fans and
pumps
• Local breaker backup relays on all sides of Transformer
7.1 145 kV and 245 kV class interconnecting auto transformers with capacities as covered
in Section ‘F’ & Section G of Transformer Manual shall have the following protection:
• Circuit breakers on both primary and secondary sides.
• High speed percentage biased differential relay with second harmonic restraint
• Restricted earth fault relay.
• Back up directional over current and earth fault relay on the primary and secondary
sides
• Over fluxing relay.
• Oil temperature indicator with alarm and trip contact.
• Buchholz relay with alarm and trip contact.
• Winding temperature indicator with three sets of contacts for alarm, trip and control of
fans (ONAN/ONAF) and four sets of contacts for (ONAN/OFAF).
• Magnetic oil gauge with low level alarm contact.
• Oil surge protection for OLTC diverter tank with trip contact.
• Lightning arrestors on both primary and secondary sides when the transformer is located
outdoors and is connected to overhead lines.
• Pressure relief device with trip contact.
• Transformer fire protection trip and isolation of power supply to cooling fans and
pumps.
• Definite time over current relay for alarm.
• Local breaker backup relays on all sides of auto transformer.
7.2 In addition to the protection mentioned in this clause, for large inter connecting auto
transformer (inter connecting two different systems/utilities) with OLTC and tertiary delta
winding along with neutral grounding transformer for tertiary winding, the following
additional protection may be provided. The typical protection diagrams showing Relaying
connection and trip logics are enclosed as Annexures I and II.
Guidelines for Protective Schemes for Power and Distribution Transformers 433
8.1 420 kV class Auto Transformers with capacities as covered in Section ‘H’ of
Transformer Manual shall have the following protection.
• High speed percentage biased differential relay with harmonic restraint.
• Restricted earth-fault relay.
• Neutral displacement relay or restricted earth fault relay for protection against ground
faults in the tertiary winding/associated connections depending upon the tertiary
earthing arrangements.
• Backup directional overcurrent and earth fault or impedance relays.
• Over flux relay.
• Buchholz relay with alarm and trip contact
• Oil temperature indicator with alarm and trip contact.
• Winding temperature indicator with three sets of contacts for alarm, trip and control of
fans (ONAN/ONAF) and four sets of contacts for (ONAN/OFAF).
• Magnetic oil gauge with low level alarm contact.
• Lightning arrestors on both sides of the transformer.
• Pressure relief device with trip contact.
• Transformer fire protection trip and isolation of power supply to cooling fans and
pumps
• Definite time over current relay for alarm.
• Oil surge protection for OLTC diverter tank with trip contact
• Local breaker backup relays on all sides of auto transformer
9.0 PROTECTION OF GENERATOR TRANSFORMERS
9.1 Generator transformers with capacities as covered in Sections ‘F’, ‘G’ and ‘H’ of the
Transformer Manual shall have the following protection :
434 Manual on Transformers
10.1 800 kV Auto Transformers with capacities as covered in Section ‘I’ shall have the
following protection:
• High speed percentage biased differential relay with second harmonic restraint.
• Restricted earth-fault relay.
• Neutral displacement relay or restricted earth fault relay for protection against ground
faults in the tertiary winding/associated connections depending upon the tertiary earthing
arrangements.
• Backup directional over current and earth fault relay with non-directional high-set
feature or impedance relays.
• Back-up neutral E/F protection with IDMT characteristics.
• Over flux relay for both HV & MV/LV side.
• Buchholz relay with alarm and trip contact.
• Oil temperature indicator with alarm and trip contact.
• Winding temperature indicator with three sets of contacts for alarm, trip and control of
fans (ONAN/ONAF) and four sets of contacts for (ONAN/OFAF).
• Magnetic oil gauge with low level alarm contact.
• Lightning arrestors on both sides of the transformer.
Guidelines for Protective Schemes for Power and Distribution Transformers 435
• Generator transformers with capacities as covered in Section ‘I’ shall have the following
protection:
This specification covers outdoor capacitance graded Oil Impregnated Paper (OIP) bushings
with values of highest voltage for equipment (Urn) from 52 kV upto 1200 kV voltage class
and with values of rated current (Ir) upto 5000A and solid porcelain and oil communicating
type bushings for voltage class < 36 kV for use in oil filled transformers and reactors. The
Synthetic Resin Bonded (SRBP) type and Resin Impregnated Paper (RIP) type bushings are
not covered in this section. These bushings, if required by the purchaser shall be supplied as
per purchaser’s specification. In case of Bushings other than those specified, dimensions will
be subject to agreement between manufacturer and purchaser.
The specification establishes essential details and dimension to ensure interchangeability and
adequate mounting of the bushings.
1.1 The porcelain components shall be sound, free from defects, thoroughly vitrified and
smoothly glazed.
1.2 Unless otherwise specified, the glaze shall be brown in colour. The glaze shall cover
all exposed porcelain parts of the bushings except those areas which are required to be left
unglazed.
1.3 The design of the bushing shall be such that stresses due to expansion and contraction
in any part of the bushing shall not lead to deterioration.
1.4 Cement if used in the construction of the bushing shall not cause fracture by expansion
or loosening by contraction. Cement thickness shall be as small and even as practicable.
1.5 All exposed ferrous metal parts shall be hot dip galvanized wherever possible.
1.6 No arcing horns shall be provided on the bushings unless otherwise specified or agreed
between purchaser and supplier.
1.7 Any stress shield shall be considered as an integral part of the bushing assembly.
1.8 52 kV to 1200 kV voltage class bushings shall be Oil Impregnated Paper (OIP) type
condenser bushings. The bushings below 52 kV voltage class shall be of porcelain and oil
communicating type unless otherwise specified.
1.9 Each bushing shall have marked upon it the manufacturer’s identification mark.
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442 Manual on Transformers
1.10 The duration and rated short time current of the bushing for various voltage ratings shall
be as specified.
1.12 Permissible variation in the value of capacitance, and maximum value of dielectric
dissipation factor (tan delta) of bushing and the test tap on transformer bushing shall be as per
IEC 60137
1.13 Bushings made of solid porcelain and oil communicating type and those having insulation
which docs not flow under service conditions shall be suitable for mounting at any angle of
inclination. Unless otherwise specified, those having a liquid insulation shall be suitable for
mounting at any angle of inclination to the vertical, not exceeding 30°.
1.14 The cantilever strength of the bushing shall be in accordance with Level – I of IEC-
60137, unless otherwise specified.
1.15 The profile of the porcelain and spacing of the petticoats shall suit the duty specified.
The petticoats shall preferably be of aerodynamic type conforming to IEC 60815 to enable hot
line washing during service.
2.1 The electrical characteristics of the bushings shall be in accordance with IEC 60137
3.1 The dimensional parameters of the bushings upto and including 36 kV voltage class
have already been standardised in IS : 3347 and shall be referred to.
3.2.1 The rated voltage, current and basic insulation levels of the bushings shall be in
accordance with IS: 2099 or IEC 60137.
4.1.1 All the bushings from 52 kV to 800 kV voltage rating shall have dimensions as mentioned
in clause 4.3 to enable interchangeability with different makes of bushings manufactured in
conformity with this specification.
4.1.2 The standardized dimensions shall be kept in view by the transformer manufacturers as
well, while designing the transformers, so that the transformer can accept any bushing of the
parameters and dimensions specified herein.
4.1.3 Other ratings of bushings, not covered in the specification, shall be supplied, if
required.
4.2 Basic Insulation Level, Voltage, Current Ratings and Creepage Distances
The basic insulation level, rated voltage and current and creepage distances for various voltage
class bushings shall be as under:
Note:
The above insulation level refers to operation at any altitude not exceeding 1000m. For installations at an altitude
higher than 1000m, the arcing distance shall be increased according to IEC 60137.
4.2.1 The minimum value of creepage distance specified is 25 mm/kV of the rated voltage of
bushings.
4.2.2 For areas with very heavy or extremely heavy pollution the minimum creepage distance
shall be as specified by the user.
4.3 Standardized Parameters of Bushings
4.3.1 To render the bushings interchangeable, certain parameters of the bushings have been
identified and their maximum and minimum dimensions have been standardized. The identified
parameters shall be as indicated in Table 1.
444 Manual on Transformers
Table 1
1. LI Length between top of air end terminal and bottom seat of flange.
Length between bottom seat of flange and bottom of the oil end shield/ stress relieving
2. L2
electrode/ oil end terminal whichever is the longest.
4.3.1.1 The standardised dimensions for various voltage and current rating bushings shall be as
indicated in Figs. 1 to 4.
The lead arrangement, inside diameter of the central tube, rod and jointing rod for different
current ratings and voltage class bushings shall be as under.
4.4.1 Definitions
Conductor consisting of one or more flexible leads in parallel drawn into the central tube of the
major insulation body of the bushing, (preferred up to 1000 A).
Conductor consisting of a round rod either removable and drawn into the central tube of the
major insulation body of the bushing or fixed rod or tube and not removable, (preferred from
1250 A up to 5000 A).
Specifications for Transformer Bushings upto 1200 kV Voltage Class
Voltage rating Current rating Type of lead Dia. of the Minimum Internal
Dia. of the central
(kV) (Amps) Jointing rod/rod
(mm) tube (mm)
1200 2500 SS -- ---
800 2500 SS --
420
1250 DL 45 60
2000 DR/SS 50/NA 60
2500 DR/SS 50/NA 60
245 1250 DR 45 48
2000 ss -- --
145 800 DL 35 38
1250 DR 35 38
2000 SS --- ---
72.5 800 SS -- --
1250 SS -- --
3150 SS -- --
52 1250 ss - -
3150 ss - -
4.5.1 To accommodate the bushing current transformers, space provided on various voltage
class bushings shall be as under:
800 kV : 600 mm
420 kV : 400 mm
600mm
245 kV : 300 mm
600 mm
145 kV : 100 mm
300 mm
600 mm
72.5kV : 100 mm
300 mm
600mmm
52 kV : 100 mm
300 mm
600mm
4.5.2 Bushings with space as necessary for the accommodation of bushing current transformers
specified shall be also offered.
446 Manual on Transformers
4.6.1 Draw lead and draw rod type leads shall have joint as shown in Fig. 2a & 2b respectively.
The dimensional details, material composition, finish, bolts spacing etc., have also been shown
in the figure. The joint shall be provided at the bushing fixing flange level. The bottom portion of
the joint shall be in flush with the bottom of the flange. The complete joint with the top portion
of the lead upto the joint with nuts and bolts shall be supplied along with the bushing. The free
portion of the joint shall be brazed / crimped by the purchaser with the lead to be supplied along
with transformer to make the complete lead.
4.6.2 In case of draw rod type lead arrangement, the complete rod upto the joint with free end
of the rod forming one portion of the joint with necessary nuts and bolts shall be supplied along
with bushing. The remaining portion of the rod with one end to match the joint shall be arranged
by the purchaser through the transformer supplier.
4.7 Oil End Terminal and Shield Fixing Arrangement for 245 kV Solid Stem Type
Bushing
The oil end terminal and shield fixing arrangement for 245 kV Solid stem type bushing shall be
as shown in Fig. 3. The entire oil end terminal arrangement along with corona shields shall be
supplied along with bushing.
4.8 Oil End Terminal for 72.5 kV/ 52 kV/ Solid Stem Type Bushing
For 72.5 kV & 52 kV bushings the palm type terminal at the oil end of the solid stem type
bushings shall be supplied in accordance with Fig. 4(a) & 4(b) as applicable.
4.9 Air End Terminal
The lengths and diameters of the air end terminals for the various bushings shall be as under:
Bushings upto 800 amps - 30 mm x 125 mm (D x L)
Bushings of 1250 Amps - 60 mm x 125 mm (D x L)
(Upto 3150 Amps)
Bushings of 5000 Amps - 90 mm x 125 mm (D x L)
4.10 Test Tap
OIP bushings shall be provided with test taps of proven design unless otherwise specified.
Tan delta of bushing at Um/√3 should not be more than 0.005 at ambient temperature, when
measured at factory.
4.11 Oil Level Indicator
4.11.1 The bushings shall be provided with oil level indicators as under:
420 kV & 800 kV Bushings: Magnetic oil level gauge / Oil sight window 245 kV and
below - Oil sight window
Specifications for Transformer Bushings upto 1200 kV Voltage Class
The oil level indicator shall be so designed and dimensioned that oil level shall be clearly visible
from ground level.
The bushing is a self contained unit and as such there is no specific maintenance to be carried
out. However a periodical check of the oil level and cleaning of the porcelains will normally
suffice.
In order to determine the healthiness of the bushing, measurement of capacitance and tan delta
may be carried out during annual maintenance. These values are to be compared with pre-
commissioning test results. Tan delta value of 0.007 or more and increase in capacitance by 5%
or more, if observed, should be referred to bushing manufacturer.
Due to the limited quantity of oil in bushings, sampling of oil from bushings is not recommended.
In case of a special requirement like DGA Analysis, sampling should be done only under the
supervision of manufacturer.
Specifications for Transformer Bushings upto 1200 kV Voltage Class
450 Manual on Transformers
Specifications for Transformer Bushings upto 1200 kV Voltage Class
452 Manual on Transformers
Specifications for Transformer Bushings upto 1200 kV Voltage Class
454 Manual on Transformers
SECTION JJ
1.1 This section covers specification for valves for transformers. This part specification does
not purport to include all necessary provision of a contract. For general requirements reference
shall be made to other sections of the Transformer Manual.
2.0 GENERAL
2.1 All valves in oil line shall be suitable for continuous operation with transformer oil (IS:
335) at 100°C.
2.2 Gland packing/ gasket material shall be of teflon rope/nitrile rubber. In case of GM/CI
(gun metal/cast iron) gate and globe valves, gland packing preferably of teflon rope shall be
used to prevent oil seepage through gland. Asbestos or graphite (gun metal/cast IMM) packing
material shall not be used as they are not compatible with hot transformer oil and asbestos is a
banned item..
2.3 Inside surface of valves shall be clean and valve ends shall be suitably blanked at the
time of dispatch. Machined and flange surfaces shall be suitably protected against rusting and
transit damage. Butterfly and radiator valves shall be covered in polythene bags before packing
for dispatch.
2.4 After testing, inside surface of all C.I. valves coming in contact with transformer oil
shall be applied with one coat of oil resisting paint/ varnish.
Inside surface of all valves in water lines shall be applied with two coats of paint conforming to
IS: 9862, two coats of black Japan conforming to Type B of IS: 341 or any other suitable water
resistant compound.
Unless specified otherwise by the purchaser, outside surface of all valves with ferrous body
shall be painted with two coats of red oxide zinc chromate primer followed by two coats of full
gloss finishing paint conforming to IS: 2932 and of shade matching with the transformer body
or shade no. 631 of IS: 5.
Outside surface of all valves with non ferrous body shall be painted with one coat of etch primer
followed by two coats of red oxide zinc chromate primer followed by two coats of full gloss
finishing paint conforming to IS: 2932 and of shade matching with the transformer body or
shade no. 631 of IS: 5.
After testing, inside surface of all C.I. valves coming in contact with transformer oil shall be
applied with one coat of oil resisting paint/varnish. Inside surface of all valves in water lines
shall be applied with two coasts of pant conforming to IS : 9862 or two coats of black Japan
conforming to Type B of IS : 341. Outside surface of the valves shall be painted with two
457
458 Manual on Transformers
coats of red oxide zinc chromate primer followed by two coats of full gloss finishing paint
conforming to IS : 2932 and of distinct different shade (631 of IS - 5) to that of main tank
surface.
2.5 All hardwares used shall be electro-galvanized.
Table 2
Table 3
15 (Screwed) 57
15 (Flanged) 72 6.6
4.1.4 Tests
(a) Pressure tests :
(b) Body ..15 kg/cm2
Seat ..10 kg/cm2
Duration .. 2 minutes
(c) Seepage test in open condition:
Test pressure.. 2 kg/cm2
Duration .. 12 hrs.
Note: Transformer oil (IS : 335) or water at ambient temperature shall be used for pressure and oil seepage tests.
4.2.1 25 mm valves used for oil filtering, oil drainage or in Buchholz pipe shall be gunmetal
gate (screw down step) type generally conforming to class 1 of IS : 778) with inside screw
stem.
25 (Flanged) 90 8.0
4.3.1 50 mm, 80 mm and 100 mm C.I. taper plug or gate valves may be used for oil filtering,
oil draining.
4.3.2 Valves shall be self-lubricating, short pattern type, provided with valve operating
wrenches. The lubricant used shall be compatible with transformer oil (IS: 335) at 100°C.
Table 5
4.3.4 Tests
4.4.1 50 mm, 80 mm, 100 mm, 150 mm, 200 mm and 250 mm, C.I. gate valves may be used
in cooling water pipe lines.
4.4.2 C.I. gate valve shall generally conform to class PNI of IS : 780 double flanged, inside
screw, non-rising spindle, Solid wedge gate and with screwed (inside screw type or bolted
bonnet, Gunmetal trim material, teflon rope gland packings and nitrile rubber gaskets. The
valves shall be provided with open and shut indicator.
4.5.4 Testing as per CI. 7.1, 7.2 and 7.3 of IS: 5312 (Part 1).
4.6 Butterfly Valves
4.6.1 Cast iron butterfly valves shall be of the nominal sizes; 50, 80, 100, 150, 200 and 250
mm. These valves are used in oil pipe lines such as Buchholz relay pipe lines and as shut off
valves between transformer main tank and cooler tank.
4.6.2 The body and cap of butterfly valves shall be made from any of the seven grades of grey
iron casting conforming to IS: 210 except grade FG 150 and the disc shaft and stop pin shall be
made from mild steel conforming to Fe 410-WA of IS : 2062 disc and body of the valve shall
be in direct contact without any sealing ring. Valve is operated by a spanner and provision shall
be given for locking in open/closed position. ‘OPEN’, ‘CLOSE’ markings on the body and an
arrow mark on the tap for position indication shall be provided. To indicate the disc position in
the cap removed condition, some suitable marking on the spindle head shall also be provided.
4.6.3 Preferred dimensions shall be as per Table 8.
Table 8
Size of valve Face to face dimension Thickness of flange
mm mm mm
50 40 16
80 40 16
100 40 16
150 40 16
200 40 16
250 45 22
462 Manual on Transformers
4.6.4 Tests
The valves shall be tested with transformer oil at 1.5 kg/cm2 with the assembled valve in closed/
open position, the leakage shall not be more than as specified below:
(i) Leakage through body when pressure is applied for thirty minutes Nil
for 150, 200 and 250 mm valves-8 drops per minute (max.)
SECTION KK
1.0 SCOPE
This technical specification covers the connection assembly of cables to SF6 gas insulated
terminations (cable boxes) in single phase or three-phase arrangements, where the cable
terminations are gas filled and there is a separating insulating barrier between the cable insulation
and the gas insulation of the transformer/ switchgear.
This also covers the connection assembly of extruded insulation cables to gas insulated enclosure,
where the cable terminations are of dry type. In this arrangement, the cable termination design
comprises an elastomeric electrical stress control component in contact with a separating
insulating barrier between the cable insulation and the gas insulation of the transformer/
switchgear. The cable termination does not include any insulating fluid.
2.0 STANDARDS
465
466 Manual on Transformers
I EC 60840 : Power cables with extruded insulation and their accessories for rated
voltages above 30 kV (Um = 36 kV) up to 150 kV (Um = 170 kV) - Test
methods and requirements.
IEC 60859 : Cable connections for gas insulated switchgear for rated voltages of 72.5
kV and above.
IEC 61639 : Direct connection between power transformers and gas insulated
switchgear for rated voltages of 72.5 kV and above.
The limits of supply for fluid filled cable terminations shall be according to Fig. 1 and for dry
type cable terminations shall be according to Fig. 3.
To limit the voltage under transient conditions, between parts 6 or 11 and part 13 of Fig. 1 for
fluid-filled cable terminations and non-linear resistors (part 15) of Fig. 3 for dry type cable
terminations may be connected across the insulated junction.
The number and characteristics of the non-linear resistors shall be determined and supplied by
the cable termination manufacturer, taking into consideration the requirements of the user and
the switchgear manufacturer.
4.0 RATING
When dimensioning the cable connection assembly, the following rated values shall apply:
(a) Rated voltage (72.5 kV - 100 kV - 123 kV - 145 kV - 170 kV - 245 kV -300 kV - 362
kV - 420 kV - 550 kV)
(b) Number of phases in one enclosure (One or three phases for Ur <170 kV and single
phase for Ur>l 70 kV)
(d) Rated normal current and temperature rise (2000 A at a temperature 90° C is standardised
for interchangeability)
(c) Rated short time and peak withstand currents (ref. IEC 60517; cl. 4.5, 4.6 and 4.7)
These loads result in the simultaneous application, at the centre of the bushing flange, of:
• a bending moment M0;
• a shearing force Ft;
• a tensile or compressive force Fa.
The bushing and the transformer shall be capable of withstanding, in service, the values of Mo,
Ft and Fa specified in Table 1, and it shall be the responsibility of the switchgear manufacturer to
ensure that these values are not exceeded.
Table 1 : Moment and forces applied on the bushing flange and transformer
Except where specified otherwise by the customer, the relative positions and levels of the
transformer and switchgear foundations respectively shall be considered as not varying.
5.4 Vibrations
The vibrations generated inside the energised transformer are transmitted by the oil and the
tank wall of the transformer to the bushing rigidly fixed on this wall and to the switchgear. The
switchgear manufacturer and the transformer manufacturer shall agree to take into account these
vibrations.
6.0 STANDARD DIMENSIONS AND SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS
6.1 Fluid Filled Cable Terminations
Standard dimensions for fluid filled cable connection enclosures, main circuit end terminals and
cable terminations applied to single phase enclosures are shown in Fig. 2. With the given four
standard sizes, the voltage range (Ut) from 72.5 to 550 kV is covered.
6.2 Dry Type Cable Terminations
Standard dimensions for dry type cable connection enclosures, main circuit end terminals,
and cable terminations applied to single phase enclosures are shown in Fig. 4. With the given
four standard sizes, the voltage range (Ut) from 72.5 to 550 kV is covered. Figure 3 shows the
two types of dry type cable termination. Type A incorporates an elastomeric electrical stress
control component inside the insulating barrier. For type B, the elastomeric electrical stress
control component is located is located externally.
7.0 TESTS
7.1 General
The testing of the cable termination and the gas insulated metal enclosed switchgear is to be
performed for cable terminations in accordance with [EC 60141-1 for oil filled cables, IEC
60141-2 for gas filled cables, IEC 60840 for cables with extruded insulation and IEC 60517 for
switchgear. In addition, this specification gives recommended arrangements for dielectric tests
Specifications for Cable Boxes for SF6 Gas Insulated Transformer Terminations for Rated 471
Voltages of 72.5 kV and above
472 Manual on Transformers
Specifications for Cable Boxes for SF6 Gas Insulated Transformer Terminations for Rated 473
Voltages of 72.5 kV and above
The dielectric type test of the cable termination fitted with a representative cable shall be
performed in an enclosure filled with insulating gas at a pressure according to the values
specified in Table 2.
If a shield is an integral part of the cable termination design, it shall be mounted in its service
position during the test.
An additional test shield may be used to screen the exposed connection interface, if required
by the cable termination manufacturer, provided it does not overlap the connection interface by
more than the distance l2 in Fig. 2 for fluid filled cable termination.
Table 2 : Gas-pressure limits for dielectric type test of cable-terminations
The cable-termination is surrounded by a metal cylinder connected to earth, the internal diameters
of which are 300 mm, 300 mm, 480 mm and 540 mm respectively for the four standard sizes
of cable connection enclosure (d5 in Fig. 2 for fluid-filled cable-terminations and Fig. 4 for dry
type cable-terminations).
The non-symmetrical arrangement for Ut <170 kV with a cylinder of 650 mm internal diameter
(Fig. 5) is intended to simulate the conditions for a three-phase cable connection. Cable-
terminations, which are intended for a single-phase cable connection, may be tested in the
same cylinder of 650 mm internal diameter to cover all expected sizes of cable connection
enclosures.
The cable connection enclosure and main-circuit end terminal may be subjected to the dielectric
type test according to IEC 60517 without the cable-termination.
474 Manual on Transformers
The gas pressure for the dielectric type test may be specified by the manufacturer of the
switchgear in accordance with Table 1.
If parts of the switchgear directly connected to the cable connection assembly cannot withstand,
at rated filling density for insulation gas, the test voltage specified for the cable test (IEC 60141
and IEC 60840), or, if in the judgement of the switchgear manufacturer, it is not acceptable
to apply the test voltage to the switchgear, the switchgear manufacturer should make special
Specifications for Cable Boxes for SF6 Gas Insulated Transformer Terminations for Rated 475
Voltages of 72.5 kV and above
provisions for the testing of the cable, for example disconnecting facilities and/or increasing gas
pressure in the cable connection enclosure.
If required by the user, the switchgear manufacturer shall provide the location for a suitable test
bushing and provide the user with all necessary information for mounting such a bushing to the
cable connection enclosure.
For cases where electrical clearances are inadequate, the term bushing shall include a suitable
insulated connection and test terminal.
The requirement for the test bushing shall be specified by the user in the enquiry.
Refer to IEC 60840, IEC 60141 and clause 9 of IEC 60517. In addition, the user and the
manufacturers shall consider the installation requirements of the equipment. Manufacturers
shall state the specific requirements for civil, electrical and installation clearances applicable to
the switchgear, cable-termination and cable.
The cable-termination manufacturer should ensure that during manufacture, handling, storage and
installation of the cable-termination, provisions should be made to ensure that the requirements
given in 5.2 of IEC 60694 can be satisfied after final assembly of the connection. The cable-
termination manufacturer should supply the necessary information to enable these requirements
to be satisfied, if the cable-termination is to be installed by others.
Note : It should be noted that increasing the gas pressure is not a reliable method of improving the electrical strength at
the surface of an insulator when tested with d. c. voltage.
APPENDICES
Appendix I
Smart grid is the future of electrical systems, designed to meet the four major electricity
requirements of the global society viz. capacity, reliability, efficiency and sustainability.
Transformers in future will have to meet the demands of smart grid. Trends and changes required
in transformer technology to meet this new development in transmission and distribution of
electric power are reviewed below.
Transformers will be called upon to meet more and more emergency over loadings to maintain
the supply even with equipment breakdowns with minimal spare capacity. Maintenance free
accessories will be demanded for transformers especially tap-changers, silica gel breather. Hot
dip galvanized radiators and Distribution transformers with stainless steel tanks or superior
surface treatment systems will be demanded to eliminate maintenance.
Fail-safe transformers, without causing fires on failure will be demanded. More and more dry
type (Resin impregnated Paper – RIP) condenser bushings will be used in critical transformers.
Failure of such bushings will not cause oil spill and consequent fires. High flash point insulating
fluids (e.g., Synthetic Esters) will be preferred for transformers required in thickly populated
urban areas. Advanced on line monitoring, control and diagnostics will be incorporated in
critical transformers. Utilities will demand early detection devices more and more. Multiple
intelligent electronic devices (IED) will monitor the behaviour of the core, windings, oil, tap
changer and bushings of transformer.
Green Transformers are being offered by a number of manufacturers. These are transformers
with high efficiency and with bio-degradable insulating fluid instead of mineral oil( natural esters
made from sunflower oil). High efficiency is achieved at no-load by using amorphous cores or
superior grade silicone steels, working at low magnetic flux density. Low current density with
unique measures for stray loss reduction, results in low load losses. Utilities will insist for star
rated distribution transformers with low levels of losses.
Environment friendly manufacturing processes will be used in the production of transformers:
Mercury contacts from instruments are changed to magnetic contacts. Silica gel with cobalt
chloride (standard blue indication - cobalt salts are suspected to be carcinogenic) are replaced
with gel with organic indicators. Asbestos paper is totally prohibited as insulation. Water based
paints are replacing solvent paints to reduce carbon emission.
Silent transformers will be demanded in future. Transformer noise, major pollutant, is no more
tolerated in cities. Even at 100 MVA units, 45- 50 dB noise levels are possible.
Increased adoption of renewable power generation will feed power directly to distribution lines,
causing voltage up swings at distribution voltage. To check this, distribution transformers will
have to be fitted with on-load tap changers.
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482 Manual on Transformers
Smart grid technology is not a single silver bullet but rather a collection of existing and
emerging technologies working together. When properly implemented, these technologies will
increase efficiency in production, transport and consumption, improve reliability and economic
operation, integrate renewable power into the grid, and increase economic efficiency through
electricity markets and consumer participation.
2 UHV AC & DC TRANSFORMERS
Currently the maximum AC transmission voltage in the country is 800 kV and the next transmission
voltage being planned is at 1200 kV. Such UHV lines will be required for transferring large
power for short distances (say 6000 MW for 200-500 kms) for interconnecting high load centres
with minimum right of way (ROW) and low transmission losses.
PGCIL has put up a national 1200 kV test station at Bina, Madhya Pradesh where it will carry
out field tests and evaluation of transmission and distribution equipment developed for 1200
kV power transmission. Two banks of 1000 MVA 1150/400 kV auto-transformer banks are
used at Test station to step up power and then to step down to the grid. Transformers actually
used for UHV transmission will be of 3000 MVA bank capacity, consisting of 1000 MVA
single phase units. These will be made of 5 limbed core with three parallel wound limbs of 333
MVA capacity. Tertiary voltage will be 33-66 kV with possible use for reactive compensation.
Proposed specifications of such transformer will be as below:
Table 1 : Proposed specifications of 1000 MVA 1200 kV single phase Transformer
The major challenge for such units will be limiting transport weight to 325 Tonnes, probable
limit of transportation.1200 kV OIP Condenser bushing, 14 m long, weighs nearly 6 tonnes.
When the commercial units are to be made, on-load tap-changing will be achieved by providing
tappings at the neutral end for HV or MV variation. MV variation tap changer will result in
less variation in flux density in the core. Due to transport weight restrictions, tap winding and
excitation winding will be accommodated in a separate tank with core for connection to neutral
end of main winding.
EHV and UHV DC transmission is used to for transferring large power for long distances with
minimum right of way and line losses. It is the most environmentally friendly and economical
way of transmitting large amounts of electric power. Compared to AC, DC transmission needs
much narrower right-of-ways ,while higher voltage reduces both electricity losses and the cost of
building large scale power lines. As generation takes place further and further away,higher and
higher transmission voltgaes are required. Currently we have DC transmission lines at 500 kV
and new lines at 800 kV are being executed in the country. These will be capable of transmitting
up to 8000 MW for 2000-3000 km. UHV DC transmission is being developed for 1100 kV DC
where two conductors will carry 10,000 MW for 5000 km.
The AC to DC converters are built as ± 800 kV double circuits with eight series connected, six
pulse converters. The transformers are single phase two winding units. In total 24 converter
transformers are needed at each end of the line. Depending on the position of transformers within
the converter ,four different designs are needed with different DC voltage ratings (800, 600, 400
and 200 kV) where the transformers connected to the uppermost and lowermost bridges had to
be built for the highest DC potential. (see sketch below)
484 Manual on Transformers
The basic function of HV DC converter transformer is to adjust the line voltage of the AC side
to the HV DC transmission voltage. It should also meet the following requirements:
• A galvanic separation between the DC and AC systems
• Specified short circuit impedance
• High content of current harmonics
• Large range of voltage regulation by on-load tap-changer.
In conventional AC/DC converters, the transformer acts as a barrier to prevent DC voltage from
entering the AC network. One of the transformer windings is connected to the AC side, which is
also called the line-side winding. The other winding is connected to the converter valves, called
the valve-side winding.
HVDC Transformer is used for stepping down the AC voltage to suit the converter or inverter
valve voltages. The valve windings of transformer should be capable of withstanding DC
voltages that will impinge on them during the pole reversals, necessary for reversing the power
flow in lines. During DC voltage applications, resistivity of insulation structure will predominate
instead of permittivity during AC application. DC voltage results in additional demands on the
insulation structure in comparison to AC voltages.
The design of the valve is such that the rate of current increase must be controlled when the
valve starts carrying current. The rate of increase largely depends on the transformer reactance,
which also has to be fulfilled within narrow limits for two individual transformer units.
The high content of current harmonics requires special attention be paid to controlling additional
and stray losses in the transformer, when it comes to total losses and the risks of local overheating
in the windings and metallic components exposed to stray flux from windings and internal
current carrying leads. In order to optimize the reactive power needed for the operation of the
converter, depending on load variations the system designer generally specifies a large range of
voltage ratio variation between the line and valve sides.
The transformer concept normally used is a single-phase design, with two wound limbs and two
outer limbs for the return flux. The windings are arranged concentrically with the valve winding
on the outside. The line winding is divided into two coils – the one for the tapped part is located
closest to the core, followed by the non tapped section. This arrangement is beneficial for the
topology of the valve-side, which require AC as well as DC insulation.
DC voltages. In operation, the valve windings are exposed to an AC voltage and a superimposed
DC voltage. A DC transmission must be able to handle the fast transition of power from one
direction to the other. Such transitions also mean a switch in converter polarity, from positive to
negative, and vice versa . Operation with continuous DC voltage, superimposed.
New Technologies, UHV AC/DC Transformers, Phase Shifting Transformers,Controlled Shunt Reactors 485
AC voltage and DC polarity reversal will be reflected in additional dielectric tests of the valve-
side windings; tests with DC voltage, tests with AC voltage and tests with switching surge voltage
are in accordance with IEC standards. All four types of test are considered to be non transient,
with a uniform voltage along the valve winding. For that reason, the two external terminals of the
winding are connected together and the voltage is applied to the two terminals simultaneously.
During the test with applied DC voltage, the level of partial discharge is measured. During the
transient period after the application of voltage, there may be Occasional charge movements
within the insulation system. These movements give rise to a noticeable partial discharge signal
on the valve-side terminals. The phenomenon is well known and recognized in current standards.
The industry has therefore accepted an upper limit on the number of occasions such bursts of
partial discharge can take place during the tests. Furthermore, the frequency of bursts must
diminish during the course of the test.
Phase shifting transformers help to control the real power flow in transmission lines. Existing
transmission systems are often operated and stressed to the limit of their performance capability
of their original design. In order to increase the power transfer through existing lines, phase
shifting transformers is a solution to maximize asset utilization. To ensure that under these
conditions the economical, reliable and secure operation of the grid is maintained, the need
for various aspects of power flow management within the power systems is becoming evident.
Phase shifting transformers help control the real power flow in a complex power distribution
network in a very efficient way. They allow for better utilization of existing networks allowing
load growths.
Function of phase shifting transformer can be described through the current distribution over
parallel lines. The natural distribution of current depends on impedance of lines. If X/R of two
lines are extremely different then distribution is inefficient. There will be difference in phase
angle and magnitude of load voltage UL1 and UL2.
The two load sides are connected together, thus equivalent reactance reduces and system stability
improves. For the load voltages to be equal load currents I1 and I2 are different in magnitude
and phase angle. Based on the currents I1 and I2 this difference can be expressed by a circulating
current IC flowing in the loop. Tie line 1 is overloaded by circulating current IC and tie line 2
is under loaded by same amount. By adding phase shifting transformer in one of the tie line
the circulating current can be controlled by changing the phase angle between the two tie line
voltages. The load currents can thus be equalized.
486 Manual on Transformers
Line reactance form major portion in line impedance, inserting a voltage in phase with or
opposite to the line voltage i.e. changing magnitude of voltage will have impact on reactive
power. The boost voltage with phase angle perpendicular to the line voltage /i.e., creating a
phase shift influences active power. Following example shows calculation of active, reactive
power and load angle.
System specification:
Base MVA: 400 MVA
Phase shifting transformer: 400 MVA, 220 kV ± 10 x 1.5% & 10x1.20
%X = 12%, %R = 0.17% (based on load losses)
Overhead line: Length 50 km, r =0.063Ω /km, x = 0.36Ω/km
Solution:
Base impedance =
R=0.063 x 50 = 3.15Ω
X= 0.36 x 50 = 18Ω
1. Phase shifting transformer phase angle set at -12° i.e. - 10 x 1.2° (Δφ= - 120)
2. Phase shifting transformer phase angle set at +12° i.e. + 10 x 1.2° (Δφ =+120)
New Technologies, UHV AC/DC Transformers, Phase Shifting Transformers,Controlled Shunt Reactors 489
Operating condition Active Power (P) Reactive Power (Q) Change in Active Change in
power (∆P) Reactive power
(∆Q)
Initial Condition (∆φ=O°) 1 pu 0.14 pu
∆φ= –12° 0.2364 pu 0.01 pu 0.7636 pu 0.13 pu
Significant variation in active power is achieved by changing phase angle. Minor change is
observed in reactive power.
The phase shift between source and load terminals is achieved by connecting the regulating
winding of phase B to the delta connection point of phase A and C, and analogous for the
remaining phases.
A quadrature voltage that can be regulated by means of the variable tap is added to the input
voltage in order to obtain a phase shift ‘α’. The direction of phase shift can be change by using
the switches. In this manner, the power flow in the line can be increased or decreased. The
relation between the tap position and angle ‘α’ is non-linear and can be derived from phasor
diagram:
...(1)
490 Manual on Transformers
The relation between the output voltage and the injected quadrature voltage is given by:
...(2)
...(3)
The power flow through the line is increased by adding an angle ‘α’ to the existing angle’δ’.
...(4)
After simplification,
...(5)
Relation between P, α and the quadrature voltage for a direct asymmetrical PST with δ = π
6
New Technologies, UHV AC/DC Transformers, Phase Shifting Transformers,Controlled Shunt Reactors 491
The curve of angle ‘α’ is relatively linear up to 0.6 rad i.e. 34°.
2. A symmetric, quadrature type and single core PST
A symmetric design is made with an additional regulating winding and an additional tap changer.
The maximum possible phase angle can be increased significantly. The relation between
the quadrature voltage and the angle ‘α’ is still non-linear and can be derived from phasor
diagram,
...(6)
...(7)
The curve of angle ‘α’ is relatively linear up to 1.5rad i.e. 85°. Range of linearity has
increased.
492 Manual on Transformers
An alternative implementation of a direct and symmetrical PST is shown in above fig. The
resulting phasor diagram has hexagonal shape. Additional impedance, connected to the load
side terminals is necessary, to protect the tap changer from short circuit currents, because no
transformer impedance is present at phase angle zero.
4. A symmetric, quadrature type and dual core PST with series and exciting unit.
The series winding between source and load terminals is split into two halves, and the exciting
winding of the exciting unit is connected to the connection point of these two windings.
Thus, total symmetry between source and load is achieved. The regulating circuit, consisting
of the tap winding in the exciting unit and an exciting winding in the series unit, can be design
New Technologies, UHV AC/DC Transformers, Phase Shifting Transformers,Controlled Shunt Reactors 493
independently from main circuit, with regard to the voltage level. This provides more freedom
for the selection of the tap changer, which sometimes is quite difficult and can even determine
the limits for a specific design.
5. Asymmetric, quadrature type and dual core PST with series and exciting unit
Series winding is not split into two halves, thus voltage does not get added symmetrically.
Therefore this arrangement becomes asymmetrical. Exciting winding is connected at load
terminals. This arrangement gives freedom in selection of Tap changer. Independent design of
exciting winding is possible from main circuit.
To achieve variable phase angle shift, OLTCs are used in PSTs. Phase shifting transformer
can be built to provide discrete phase angle shift, continuous variable phase angle shift, or
a combination of both. Discrete phase angle shifters normally provide settings for a plus-or-
minus fixed degree value and zero. If a variable phase shift is desired, an On Load Tap-Changer
(OLTC) is required. OLTCs are used to provide several tap positions for any desired angle
range. A Phase-Shifting Transformer can be constructed as a shell or as a core form transformer.
In addition to the MVA rating, the amount of phase shift also directly affects the physical size
of the transformer.
Two typical types of regulation are used with OLTCs. One involves direct regulation at the line
end and the other involves a series and an exciting unit.
1. Direct regulation at line end
The tapped windings are wound on the same core leg as the main delta winding and the OLTCs
are designed as reversing types. The tapped windings of phase 1(energized by Ue) are connected
between phases 2 and 3 produces the voltages UAA’ and UA’A’’. The voltages of the source (US1)
494 Manual on Transformers
and load side (UL1) are out of phase by an angle α . The input and output voltage magnitudes
are equal.
While selecting an OLTC the maximum through-current and the maximum step voltage Ust must
be taken into consideration. Because the phasor of the exciting winding is located electrically
between the phasors of US and UL, account must be taken of the fact that exciting voltage
changes with the phase angle.
These transformers have OLTCs with linear regulation, i.e. without changeover selector. The
tapped winding is wound on the same core leg as the main delta winding. The tapped winding of
phase 1 is located between phases 2 and 3 and produces the voltage UAA’. The input and output
voltage magnitudes are equal.
New Technologies, UHV AC/DC Transformers, Phase Shifting Transformers,Controlled Shunt Reactors 495
In case of phase-shifting transformers with regulation at the line end and reversing type
OLTC, high recovery voltages can occur due to the winding arrangement. There are methods
available to reduce recovery voltage viz. use of tie in resistors, use of electrostatic screens
to shield the tap windings and use of Advance Retard Switch (ARS) as the change-over
selector. This additional unit allows the change-over operation to be carried out in two steps
without interruption. With this, the regulating winding is connected to a fixed potential for
the whole operation. The limiting factors for the ARS are the processes of commutation
which have to be controlled by the ARS.
These types of transformers basically consist of a series unit and an exciting unit, located on two
separate cores. These units can be enclosed in one tank, but for large capacity transformers, they
are constructed in two separate tanks.
496 Manual on Transformers
- Shunt Unit
Three phase Voltage ratio Tapping range Percent impedance Voltage Cooling Phase Shift
rating MVA per cent Angle
As per line 400/V1/V2/33 Tapping range Between main windings ONAN/ For PST system,
MW rating may vary from it shall be as per system ONAF/ shall be as per
±10% to requirement. OFAF system require-
full tapping ment. Generally
winding ie Between other pair of between 5ºto 15º
±100% windings it shall be as per
system requirement.
Note : V1/V2 and other voltages shall depend on the usage of PST ie the lines in which PST is required.
New Technologies, UHV AC/DC Transformers, Phase Shifting Transformers,Controlled Shunt Reactors 497
- Series Unit
Three phase Voltage ratio Tapping range Percent impedance Voltage Cooling Phase Shift
rating MVA per cent Angle
Shall depend V3/V4 NA for series Shall be as per system ONAN/ For PST system,
on the unit requirement. ONAF/ shall be as per
amount of OFAF system require-
phase shift ment. Generally
required. between 5º to
15º
Note : V3/V4 shall depend on the usage of PST ie the lines in which PST is required.
In practice many solutions are possible to the design of PST. The user’s electric power system
requirements and the manufacturer’s preference generally determine the design. The major
factors determining the type of PSTs are given below:
Performance factors
Design factors:
These factors decide whether a single-core, two-core type or a single tank with two cores has
to be chosen. The most popular of all the above is two core design. Every design has its own
advantages and disadvantages.
(vi) Air core reactance of HV winding shall not be less than 20 per cent and knee point
voltage shall not be less than 1.1 pu.
(vii) Short circuit level - Transformer shall be suitable for connection to for 420 kV system
the system having the following short circuit and duration levels and duration: 40,50
and 63 kA for one second.
(viii) Terminal Bushings
(a) HL/IV/LV/SV Terminals: Oil filled condenser bushing. No arcing horns shall be
provided.
(b) Neutral End: 36kV porcelain bushing. No arcing horns shall be provided.
Other Parameters (Series Unit)
Most of the rules and standards which exist for power transformers can be applied to PST’s
as well. However, there are a few topics which are specific to PST’s and some of the more
important are related to testing practice.
New Technologies, UHV AC/DC Transformers, Phase Shifting Transformers,Controlled Shunt Reactors 499
One of these is heat run test, which can differ from the normal practice because of the complexity
of the unit. This becomes obvious for a dual core design. Normally total losses are applied during
the initial phase of the heat run, in order to determine the oil temperature rise. As this is done
with a short circuit condition, no losses are actually generated in the core, and the actual core
losses need to be generated by increasing the load current and thus the load losses accordingly.
This works fine for any normal transformer, but it needs some additional consideration for a dual
core phase shifter. Due to specific properties of dual core PST’s it is not possible to achieve the
correct total losses for both active parts at the same time. The two active parts would always
have the same losses in the maximum tap position. Thus either separate heat runs are necessary
or a correction must be applied.
For a dual core design of a quadrature type phase shifter; With the PST in service, normally both
ends of the series winding are exposed to disturbances in the system. The standard lightning
impulse test at all terminals of the PST helps to ensure that the series winding is able to withstand
these stresses. A PST can face even more severe stresses during a lightning storm: In case of
a closed by-pass breaker, a lightning impulse will appear simultaneously at the source and the
load side terminal. This very likely produces oscillations with high magnitude at the center
of the series winding, where the exciting winding of the exciting unit is connected. If such a
condition is likely to appear during normal operation, it might be useful to specify a lightning
impulse test with source and load terminals connected, to ensure that the PST can withstand the
stresses of a lightning stroke in this situation.
Switching impulse testing can cause different kinds of problems. As usual, the secondary
side needs to be left open, in order to achieve an appropriate wave shape. It can then happen,
influence by the mutual interconnection of windings in different phases, that the magnitude of
the voltage oscillation at the secondary terminal exceeds the applied voltage. Therefore it is
sometimes appropriate to make the switching impulse test “indirectly”, which means that the
tested terminal is not the terminal, where the impulse is applied.
Phase shift angle measurement shall be done by interconnecting both the units of PST.
Typical Connection diagram of PST
500 Manual on Transformers
REFERENCES
1 Walter Seitlinger Phase Shifting Transformers, Va Tech T&D (Va Tech Elin
Transformatoren Gmbh
2. A.Kramer and J.Ruff Transformers for Phase Angle Regulation Considering the
Selection of On-Load Tap Changer. IEEE Transactions on Power Delivery, Vol. 13,
No. 2, April 1998.
3. Jody Verboomen, Member IEEE, Dirk Van Hertem, Member IEEE, Pieter H.
Schavemaker, Wil L. Kling, Member IEEE, Ronnie Belmans, Fellow IEEE Phase
Shifting Transformers: Principles and Applications.
5. Paola Bresesti, Member, IEEE, Marino Sforna, Vittorio Allegranza, Deniele Canever,
and Riccardo Vailati Application of Phase Shifting Transformers for a secure and
efficient operation of the interconnection corridors.
6. ANSI C57.135: IEEE guide for the application, specification and testing of phase
shifting transformers
The basic principle of CSR is to control the reactive power by using a thyristor valve, which
can provide the necessary speed of switching and control by means of firing angle control.
The CSR generally consists of controlled shunt reactor transformer (CSRT) with apprx. 100%
impedance, thyristor valves, controller, neutral grounding reactor, necessary circuit breakers and
other auxiliaries.
The CSRT is a power transformer with nearly 100% impedance between primary and control
winding (secondary winding). In other words when the control winding is short circuited with
rated voltage applied on the primary winding, the reactive power flow will be similar to the
power flow in a shunt reactor of similar rating connected to the same rated voltage. The CSR
is not merely a substitute of Shunt Reactor, but the advantages of CSR are much more than a
shunt reactor. The CSR offers various added advantages like fully controllable reactive power,
reduction in dynamic over voltages, increased power carrying capacity of lines, fast response,
full compatibility to single phase auto reclosure, economy of size, minimum harmonics etc.
New Technologies, UHV AC/DC Transformers, Phase Shifting Transformers,Controlled Shunt Reactors 501
The rating of CSR depends on the line parameters i.e. the line length and the compensation
required. Further the control winding design is dependent upon the control winding current
which is governed by the max. current allowed for the thyristor valves.
Note : V1/V2 shall depend on the current carrying capacity of thyristor valves.
Other Parameters
SV delta
(iii) Tappings NA
(iv) Three-phase rating should be understood as three phase bank rating and not necessarily
three-phase unit rating. Wherever transport restrictions impose, single phase ratings
equal to one-third of the three phase bank rating may be specified.
(v) ONAN rating shall be guaranteed at 60 per cent of the OFAF, or ODAF rating. Rating
under ONAF condition shall be about 80 per cent.
502 Manual on Transformers
(vi) Air core reactance of HV winding shall not be less than 20 per cent and knee point
voltage shall not be less than 1.1 pu.
(vii) Short circuit level - Transformer shall be suitable for connection to for 420 kV system
the system having the following short circuit and duration levels and duration: 40,50
and 63 kA for one second.
(a) HL/IV/LV/SV Terminals: Oil filled condenser bushing. No arcing horns shall be
provided.
Testing of CSR
Testing of CSR shall be in line with IEC 60076 as is followed for 400 kV class power
transformers.
Appendix II
1. SPECIFICATIONS
505
506 Manual on Transformers
2. TESTING
3. TRANSFORMER OIL
4. ACCESSORIES
6. APPLICATION GUIDES
1889 - John Ambrose Fleming The Alternate Current Transformer in Theory and
Practice Vol 1 Induction of Electric Currents, Pages 487 Vol 2 The
Utilization of Induced Currents, Pages 507 The Electrician Printing &
Publishing Co. Ltd, London
4. Current Books
Accessories
2011 – Keith Ellis Bushings for Power Transformers , Pages 116 Author House ,
Bloomington , IN
2011 – Faiz J Siah Kolah B Electronic Tap Changers for Distribution Transformers ,
Pages 183 Springer-Verlong , London
2000 – Axel Kramer On- Load Tap -Changers for Power Transformers , Pages 232 MR
520 Manual on Transformers
Germany
1979,1987 – HP Moser & V Dahinden Transformer Board Vol 1( 1979) & 2(1987) Weidman,
Rapperswill , Switzerland
Application
1925-2007 - ed 13.0 Martin Heathcote The J & P Transformer Book , Pages 973 Newness
Publications , Amsterdam 14th edition expected in 2013 √2003,2007- ed2.0
James H Harlow Electric Power Transformer Engineering, Pages , CRC Press ,
New York
2003-2007 – ed 3.0 ABB Power Transformer Business unit Transformer Hand Book , Pages 23
Maintenance
2006-2010 – ed3.0 ABB Transformer Services Business unit Service Hand Book for
Transformers √1981-2004 – ed 3.0 M Horning , J Kelly, S Meyers , R Stebbins
Transformer Maintenance Guide SD Meyers Inc , Ohio
Theory
2008 – A.V. Chiplonkar Design, Operation and Maintenance of Core type oil filled
Transformers, Pages 720
2001,2010 – ed 2.0 Robert M Del Veechio, Rajendra Ahuja , Bertland Poulin , Pierre T
Feghalli, DM Shah Transformer Design Principles with Applications , Pages 720
CRC Press
1987,1995 – ed 2.0 K.Karsai, D Kerenyi , L Kiss Large Power Transformers Akademiai Kiado , Budapest
Theory – Specifics
1966 – ed 2.0 M Waters The Short Circuit Strength of Power Transformers Macdonald
& Co. , London
1996-2008 – ed 3.0 G.Bertagnolli Short Circuit Duty of Power Transformers , Pages 225 ABB
Management Services , Transformers, Zurich
1993 – D.Konig , Y N Rao Partial Discharges in Electric Power Apparatus VDE Verlag
Gmbh , Berlin
1980 – M V K Chari and PP Silvester Finite Elements in Electrical and Magnetic Field
Problems John Wiley & Sons
2008 – ed 9.0 J P Holman, Heat Transfer, Pages 676 Tata Mcgraw Hill, New Delhi
2011 – Suhas V Patankar Numerical Heat Transfer and Fluid Flow Taylor & Francis
Testing
2003,2011 – ed 2.0 Ake Carlson, Jitka Fuhr Testing of Power Transformers, Pages ABB Power
Transformer Business Area
Transformer Oil
2011 – ed 3.0 Nynas Naphthenics AB, Sweden Transformer Oil Hand Book, Pages 223
2000 – Marcelo M Hirschler ASTM Publication No. 1376 Electrical Insulating Materials,
pages 211
1988 – H.G. Erdmann (ed) Electrical Insulating Oils , Pages 146 ASTM Publication STP
998
5. More Details
SL. No. Component / Classification Type of Insp. Quantum REF.Doc. & Form INSP/TEST
operation and / test of insp. ACPT. Norm of
description of test record
V/SV MQ
1.7.4 Verification of dimensions Major Measurement 100% for ~do~ ~do~ ~do~ -do-
of components and assly. Major assly
1.7.5 Inspection of fit up and Major Visual & ~do~ ~do~ ~do~ ~do~ -do-
major weld, preparation Measurement
Weld finish & size.
1.7.6 Check for flatness of Major Measurement -do- —do- —do— —do— H
gasketing surface
1.7.7 Leak proof ness of oil filled Major Testing Each unit Process spec. NO.-/ -do- -do- VE
Compartments CBIP
1.7.10 D.P. Testing of major weld Major Testing Jacking / Process Spec. No. -do- -do- VE
Lifting pad
1.7.13 Paint type and shade Major Sampling DRG. No. - -do~ H
1.7.16 Paint adhesion test Major -do- Process Spec. No.~ -do~ -do~
525
526 Manual on Transformers
Legends:
V Vendor
SV Sub Vendor
MQ Manufacturer’s Quality
Assurance
WPS Welding Process
Specification
P Perform
IR Inspection Record
TC Test Certificate
Appendix IV
529
530 Manual on Transformers
(c) Limit of hot spot temperature for which the transformer is designed (°C) Over the maximum yearly
weighted average ambient temperature:
8. Type of tap changing switch:
(i) Off circuit switch/links:
(ii) On load:
9. Tappings on windings HV/IV/LV for:
(i) Constant flux/variable flux/combined regulation:
(ii) Location (Line/Central/Neutral) end of winding:
(iii) Number of steps:
(iv) Variation of (HV/IV/LV):
10. (i) No load loss at rated voltage and frequency at principal tap (kW):
(ii) No load loss at the voltage corresponding to the highest tap (kW):
(iii) Tolerance, if any, on the above values:
11. (a) Load loss at rated output, rated frequency and corrected for 75°C winding temperature at:
(i) Principal tap (kW):
(ii) Highest tap (kW):
(iii) Lowest tap (kW):
(b) Tolerance, if any, on the above values:
12. (a) Auxiliary losses at rated output, normal ratio, rated voltage, rated frequency and ambient
tmperature (kW):
(b) Tolerance, if any, on the above values:
13. Total losses at normal ratio inclusive of auxiliary equipment losses (kW):
14. Positive sequence impedance on rated MVA base at rated current and frequency at 75°C winding temperature
between: HV-IV HV-LV IV-LV
(i) Principal tap, per cent:
(ii) Highest tap, per cent:
(iii) Lowest tap, per cent:
15. Zero sequence impedance at reference temperature of 75° C at principal tap, per cent:
16. Reactance at rated MVA base at rated current and frequency, per cent:
17. Regulation at full load and 75°C winding temperature expressed as a percentage of normal voltage:
(i) At Unity Power Factor per cent:
(ii) At 0.8 Power Factor (Lagging) per cent:
18. Efficiency at 75°C winding:
temperature as derived from guaranteed loss figures and at Unity power factor
(a) At full load, per cent:
(b) At 3/4 load, per cent:
(c) At 112 load, per cent:
19. (i) Maximum efficiency, per cent:
(ii) Load at which maximum efficiency occur s (per cent of full load):
20. Time in minutes for which the transformer can be run at full load without exceeding the maximum
permissible temperature at reference ambient temperature when:
(a) Power supply to fans is cutoff but the oil pumps are working:
(b) Power supply to oil pumps is cut-off but fans are working:
(c) When power supply to both fans and pumps is cut off:
21. Short time rating for 2 seconds of:
(a) HV winding:
Guaranteed Technical And Additional Technical Particulars 531
(b) IV winding:
(c) LV winding:
22. Permissible over loading:
(a) HV winding:
(b) IV winding:
(c) LV winding:
23. Terminal arrangement:
(i) High voltage (HV):
(ii) Intermediate voltage (IV):
(iii) Low voltage (LV):
(iv) Neutral-HV/IV/LV:
(v) Tertiary:
24. Insulating and cooling medium:
25. Test Voltage: HV / IV / LV
(i) Lightning impulse withstand test voltage (kV peak):
(ii) Power frequency with-stand test voltage dry as well as wet for I minute (kV rms):
(iii) Switching impulse withstand test voltage (kV peak):
26. Partial discharge level at 1.5Um/ √ 3 kV rms (pC):
27. Noise level when energised at normal voltage and frequency without load (db):
28. External short circuit withstand capacity (MVA) and duration (seconds):
29. Over flux withstand capability of the transformer:
II. ADDITIONAL TECHNICAL PARTICULARS
(These figures are indicative only. These shall not form the basis for upward or downward revision of
prices).
1. Details of Core:
(a) Type of core construction:
(b) Type of core joints:
(c) Flux density at rated voltage and frequency and at principal tap Tesla:
(d) Magnetizing current at normal ratio and frequency: (i) 90 per cent of rated voltage:
(ii) 100 per cent of rated voltage:
(iii) 110 per cent of rated voltage:
(In case kVA ratings of windings are different, this may be specified in terms of magnetizing kVA):
(c) Power factor of magnetizing current at normal voltage ratio and frequency:
(f) (i) Material of core laminations:
(ii) Thickness of core laminations (mm):
(g) (i) Whether core construction is without core bolts:
(ii) Insulation of core bolt:
(iii) Insulation of core bolt washers:
(iv) Insulation between core laminations:
(v) Core bolt insulation withstand voltage for 1 minute (kV rms):
(vi) Are the core bolts grounded. If so how:
(h) (i) Material of core clamping plate:
(ii) Thickness of core clamping plate:
(iii) Insulation of core clamping plate:
(i) Describe location/Method of core grounding:
532 Manual on Transformers
539
540 Manual on Transformers
1. DESIGN DETAILS
545
546 Manual on Transformers
Cooling Type
Maximum Oil Velocity
Directed Oil flow washer details
Temperature rise (above Ambient of 50 Deg C):
Top Oil (Designed / Guaranteed)
HV Winding (Designed / Guaranteed)
Cooling
5 IV Winding (Designed / Guaranteed)
Design
LV Winding (Designed / Guaranteed)
Cooler Details:
Nos. of Coolers
Fans & Pumps per cooler
Cooler Loss Designed / Guaranteed
Cooler Inlet & Outlet Temp Difference Deg C
Tap Changer Type, Range (& Steps)
Tap Changer Type (Reversing / Coarse Fine / Linear)
Tap Changer Rated Current
Voltage Of Tap Changer To Earth
6 Tap Changer Voltage Across Taps
Step Voltage
Maximum Switching Capacity
Recovery Voltage Detail (if OLTC)
Whether Tie In Resistor Required (if OLTC)
2. ENCLOSURES
Sr. Enclosure
No.
1 Core hot spot calculation.
2 Calculation of inrush current & air core reactance
3 Dynamic ability to withstand short circuit (including forces details in tabular format as per IEC 60076-5.)
4 Thermal ability to withstand short circuit.
5 Cooling calculations design details.
6 Calculation to show that during total failure of power supply to cooling fans and pumps, the transformer shall
be able to operate at full load for at least ten minutes without the calculated winding hot spot temperature
exceeding 140 Deg c.
7 Impulse voltage distribution graph/details.
8 Transfer surge calculation graph/details.
9 Sectional view of Winding Assembly showing Top and Bottom Rings
10 Winding arrangement sketch.
11 Calculation of Ohmic resistance at different taps. (applicable for ICT)
12 Recovery voltage calculation (for OLTC).
Appendix vii
Sl. No. Technical Specifications/ Generator Transformer in Coal Generator Transformer in Station Transformer Station Transformer Unit Transformer Unit Transformer in LV Transformer (Dry
Particulars based power plants Gas based CCPP in Coal based power in Gas based CCPP in Coal based Gas based CCPP Type/ Oil immersed) in
plants power plants Coal/ Gas based power
plants
A. GENERAL
1. Application Generator Transformer Generator Transformer Station Transformer Station Transformer Unit Transformer Unit Transformer Unit Aux/Station Aux
Transformer
2. Quantity 1 X 100% 1 X 100% 2 X 100% or 1 X 1 X 100% 1 X 100% or 2 X 1 X 100% 2 X 100% per system
100% 50% or 2 X 100% (normally)
3. Applicable Standards IS 2026 / IEC 60076 IS 2026 / IEC 60076 IS 2026 / IEC 60076 IS 2026 / IEC 60076 IS 2026 / IEC 60076 IS 2026 / IEC 60076 IS 11171, IS 2026 or
IEC60076
4. Service & Duty Outdoor & Continuous Outdoor & Continuous Outdoor & Outdoor & Continuous Outdoor & Outdoor & Continuous Outdoor/ Indoor &
551
Continuous Continuous Continuous
5. Number of phases 3-phase or 3 nos. 1 phase 3-phase 3-phase 3-phase 3-phase 3-phase 3-phase
6. Number of windings (per Two winding Two winding Two/ Three winding Two/ Three winding Two winding /Three Two winding Two winding
phase to be mentioned for winding
single phase)
7. Frequency (Hz) 50 Hz (Frequency variation to be 50 Hz (Frequency variation 50 Hz (Frequency 50 Hz (Frequency 50 Hz (Frequency 50 Hz (Frequency 50 Hz(Frequency
considered as per Grid frequency to be considered as per Grid variation to be variation to be variation to be variation to be considered variation to be considered
variation) frequency variation) considered as per considered as per Grid considered as per as per Grid frequency as per Grid frequency
Grid frequency frequency variation) Grid frequency variation) variation)
variation) variation)
8. Winding connection
9. Vector Group YNd11 or YNd1 YNd11 or YNd1 YNyn0 or YNyn0 or Dyn11 (if Gen. Dyn11 (if Gen. Trafo. Dyn11 or Dyn1
Salient Technical Specifications and Particulars of Power Transformers for Power Plant Application
B. RATINGS
10. Type of cooling ONAN/ONAF cooling ONAN/ONAF cooling ONAN/ONAF ONAN/ONAF cooling ONAN/ONAF ONAN/ONAF cooling AN or AN/AF or ONAN
(80%/100%) OR ONAN/ONAF/ (80%/100%) OR ONAN/ cooling (80%/100%) (80%/100%) cooling (80%/100%) (80%/100%)
OFAF cooling (60%/80%/100%) ONAF/OFAF cooling (60%/ OR ONAN/ONAF/ OR ONAN/ONAF/
OR ONAN/ONAF/ODAF 80%/ 100%) OR ONAN/ OFAF cooling (60%/ OFAF cooling
cooling (60%/80%/100%) OR ONAF/ODAF cooling 80%/ 100% or 50%/ (60%/ 80%/ 100%)
ODAF cooling, in case of unit (60%/80%/100%) 75%/ 100%)
coolers (100%)
11. Transformer Rating Generator transformer shall be Generator transformer For power plant Station Transformer Unit Transformer Unit Transformer (UT) In line with IS 2026-I,
(MVA) sized to deliver the continuous shall be sized to deliver having two or more (ST) will be sized (UT) will be sized to will be sized to deliver MVA rating shall be
gross output of the Generator at the continuous output number of units to deliver following deliver unit loads. In unit loads + Balance sufficient to cater to
Steam Turbine TMCR and /or power of the Gas Turbine and two Station power output (under case of plant having of Plant (BoP) loads. the maximum running
VWO conditions, minus total of at ISO condition. (i.e. at Transformers (ST), most stringent Generator Circuit (If there is no Station load on the respective
excitation power (if applicable) 15° C) MVA rating of this each ST will be sized condition) (i) tart-up Breaker (GCB), Transformer and GCB Switchgear/Load Centre.
and one (1) 50% capacity Unit transformer shall be sized to deliver following loads of one Unit (ii) Unit Transformer is provided) 5% design 5% design margin
Transformer loading. Generator based on the gas turbine power output with shutdown loads of shall be sized to take margin (minimum) may (minimum) may be taken
Transformer shall be sized to generator maximum output other ST out of other Units (iii) 00% care the loads of be taken on above on above
evacuate MVA arrived as above minus total of generator service. (under most station common loads units as well as the
at a generator terminal voltage excitation power and unit stringent condition) (iv) % design margin common auxiliaries/
of 0.95 PU. auxiliary loads, depending (i) tart-up loads of (minimum) may be systems. 5% design
Manual on Transformers
on the plant configurations. Unit-1 (ii) hut-down taken on above [For margin (minimum)
Generator Transformer loads of Unit- 2, on large size coal based may be taken on
shall be sized to evacuate bypass operation (iii) power plant (say > above
MVA arrived as above at a 00% station common 500 MW), considering
generator terminal voltage of loads (iv) % design the availability
0.95 PU. margin (minimum) of secondary side
may be taken on equipment of ST,
above [For large size simultaneous starting
coal based power of Unit-1 & shut-down
plant (say > 500 of Unit-2 under
MW), considering one ST out, may be
the availability decided as per project
of secondary side requirements]
equipment of
ST, simultaneous
starting of
Sl. No. Technical Specifications/ Generator Transformer in Coal Generator Transformer in Station Transformer Station Transformer Unit Transformer Unit Transformer in LV Transformer (Dry
Particulars based power plants Gas based CCPP in Coal based power in Gas based CCPP in Coal based Gas based CCPP Type/ Oil immersed) in
plants power plants Coal/ Gas based power
plants
Unit-1 & shut-down
of Unit-2 under
one ST out, may be
decided as per project
requirements]
12. Rated Voltage – HV (kV) 245 kV for 3-phase bank & 245 kV for 3-phase bank 220 kV for 220 kV 220 kV for 220 kV grid As per Generator As per Generator terminal As per Plant distribution
245/√3 for single phase bank For for 220 kV grid system. 420 grid system. 400 system. 400 kV for 400 terminal voltage voltage System
220 kV Grid System. 420 kV for kV for 3-phase bank for 400 kV for 400 kV grid kV grid system. 765 kV
3-phase bank & 420/√3 for single kV grid system. 765 kV for system. 765 kV for for 3-phase bank for
phase bank For 400 kV Grid 3-phase bank for 765 kV grid 3-phase bank for 765 765 kV grid system
System. 765 kV for 3-phase bank system. kV grid system
&765/√3 for single phase bank
For 765 kV Grid System.
13. Rated Voltage-LV (kV) As per Generator terminal As per Generator terminal As per Plant As per Plant As per Plant As per Plant distribution As per Plant distribution
voltage voltage distribution System distribution System distribution System System System
14. Rated Current-HV As per MVA rating & voltage As per MVA rating & voltage As per MVA rating & As per MVA rating & As per MVA rating As per MVA rating & As per kVA rating &
windings (A) rating rating voltage rating voltage rating & voltage rating voltage rating voltage rating
15. Rated Current- LV As per MVA rating & voltage As per MVA rating & voltage As per MVA rating & As per MVA rating & As per MVA rating As per MVA rating & As per kVA rating &
windings (A) rating rating voltage rating voltage rating & voltage rating voltage rating voltage rating
16. Over voltage Withstand
Time Sec
110% of rated voltage Continuous Continuous Continuous Continuous Continuous Continuous Continuous
125% of rated voltage 60 sec 60 sec 60 sec 60 sec 60 sec 60 sec NA
140% of rated voltage 5 sec 5 sec 5 sec 5 sec 5 sec 5 sec NA
17. Over-fluxing
Capability
(a) For over fluxing Continuous Continuous Continuous Continuous Continuous Continuous Continuous
factor 1.10
(b) For over fluxing 60 Sec 60 Sec 60 Sec 60 Sec 60 Sec 60 Sec 60 Sec (for Oil filled)
factor 1.25
Salient Technical Specifications and Particulars of Power Transformers for Power Plant Application
(c) For over fluxing 5 sec 5 sec 5 sec 5 sec 5 sec 5 sec Not required
factor 1.40
553
Sl. No. Technical Specifications/ Generator Transformer in Coal Generator Transformer in Station Transformer Station Transformer Unit Transformer Unit Transformer in LV Transformer (Dry 554
Particulars based power plants Gas based CCPP in Coal based power in Gas based CCPP in Coal based Gas based CCPP Type/ Oil immersed) in
plants power plants Coal/ Gas based power
plants
18. Over loading capacity As per IS - 6600 As per IS - 6600 As per IS - 6600 As per IS - 6600 As per IS - 6600 As per IS - 6600 As per IS – 6600, 2026&
11171
19. Maximum current density
of windings
HV 3- 3.50 A/ Sq. mm 3- 3.50 A/ Sq. mm 3- 3.50 A/ Sq. mm 3- 3.50 A/ Sq. mm 3- 3.50 A/ Sq. mm 3- 3.50 A/ Sq. mm 3- 3.50 A/ Sq. mm
LV 3- 3.50 A/ Sq. mm 3- 3.50 A/ Sq. mm 3- 3.50 A/ Sq. mm 3- 3.50 A/ Sq. mm 3- 3.50 A/ Sq. mm 3- 3.50 A/ Sq. mm 3- 3.50 A/ Sq. mm
C TEMPERATURE RISE
20. Design Ambient 50°C (say)/ lower ambient 50°C (say) / lower ambient 50°C (say) / lower 50°C (say) / lower 50°C (say) / lower 50°C (say) / lower 50°C (say) / lower
Temperature temperature as per plant temperature as per plant ambient temperature ambient temperature ambient temperature ambient temperature as ambient temperature as
requirement requirement as per plant as per plant requirement as per plant per plant requirement per plant requirement
requirement requirement
21. Temperature rise over 50°C 50°C 50°C 50°C 50°C 50°C 50°C (for Oil filled)
maximum ambient of Top
oil by thermometer
22. Temperature rise over 55°C (for OFAF) 60°C (for 55°C (for OFAF) 60°C (for 55°C 55°C 55°C 55°C 55°C(for Oil filled) 90°C
maximum ambient of ODAF) ODAF) (for Dry type. Class-F)
winding by resistance
D TAPPINGS
Manual on Transformers
23. Type Off circuit tap changer/ On load Off circuit tap changer/ On On load tap changer On load tap changer On load tap changer On load tap changer Off circuit tap changer
tap changer(preferably for 3-ph load tap changer
bank transformer)
24. Range - Steps x % Indicative range: +/-5% in steps Indicative range: +/-10% in Indicative range: ± 10% in steps of Indicative range: ± 10% or ±12.5% in steps ± 5% in steps of 2.5%
Variation of 2.5% for OCTC and +10% steps of 2.5% for OCTC and ± 10% in steps of 1.25% ± 10% in steps of of 1.25%
to -15% for OLTC in steps of +7.5% to -15% for OLTC 1.25% 1.25%
1.25%, however exact range to in steps of 1.25%, however
be decided to meet the system exact range to be decided to
requirement of evacuating the meet the system requirement
total generated power within of evacuating the total
the operating range of generator generated power within the
power factor. operating range of generator
power factor.
25. Taps provided on HV/LV HV Neutral end HV Neutral end HV Side HV Side HV Side HV Side HV Side
Winding
Sl. No. Technical Specifications/ Generator Transformer in Coal Generator Transformer in Station Transformer Station Transformer Unit Transformer Unit Transformer in LV Transformer (Dry
Particulars based power plants Gas based CCPP in Coal based power in Gas based CCPP in Coal based Gas based CCPP Type/ Oil immersed) in
plants power plants Coal/ Gas based power
plants
26. Category of voltage Constant Flux Voltage Variation CFVV CFVV CFVV CFVV CFVV CFVV
variation (CFVV)
E IMPEDANCES
a) Base MVA Rating a) MVA rating at OFAF or ONAF a) MVA rating at OFAF or a) MVA rating at a) MVA rating at ONAF a) MVA rating at a) MVA rating at ONAF a) MVA rating at AN/
b) Impedance at Principal or ONAN or ODAF ONAF or ONAN or ODAF OFAF or ONAF or or ONAN ONAF or ONAN or ONAN ONAN
Tap at Rated Frequency b) 12% to 16% (to be decided b) 12% to 16% (to be ONAN b) 12-20 % b) 10-14 % For b) 10-14 % b) 4-10%
and 75°C winding considering the requirement decided considering the b) 12-20 % For three winding
temperature to evacuate the total generated requirement to evacuate three winding transformers,
power within the operating range the total generated power transformers, impedance value to
of generator power factor and within the operating range of impedance value to be decided based
also to limit the short circuit generator power factor and be decided based on the system
contribution to grid) also to limit the short circuit on the system requirement
contribution to grid) requirement
F SYSTEM EARTHING
27. HV side Solidly earthed Solidly earthed Solidly earthed Solidly earthed Non effectively Non effectively earthed Non-effectively earthed
earthed
28. LV side Non Effectively Earthed Non Effectively Earthed Non Effectively Non Effectively Non effectively Non effectively earthed Effectively earthed
Earthed Earthed earthed
G SYSTEM FAULT LEVEL
29. HV side 40/50/63 kA for 1/3 sec (To 40/50/63 kA for 1/3 sec (To 40/50 kA for 1/3 sec 40/50 kA for 1/3 sec Magnitude of fault Magnitude of fault 50/44/40 KA (r.m.s.)
be defined as per grid system be defined as per grid system (To be defined as (To be defined as per current& Withstand current &Withstand time for 1 Sec
fault level) fault level) per grid system fault grid system fault level) time depends depends upon system
level) upon system configurations
configurations
30. LV side As per short circuit calculation As per short circuit As per short circuit As per short circuit As per short circuit As per short circuit 50/65 KA (r.m.s.) for
at LV side calculation at LV side calculation at LV side calculation at LV side calculation at calculation at LV side 1 Sec
LV side
H SHORT CIRCUIT WITHSTAND TIME WITHOUT INJURY DUE TO TERMINAL FAULT WITH RATED VOLTAGE MAINTAINED ON THE OTHER SIDE
31. With 3 phase dead short 2 sec 2 sec 2 sec 2 sec 2 sec 2 sec 2 sec
circuit
Salient Technical Specifications and Particulars of Power Transformers for Power Plant Application
32. With single phase short 2 sec 2 sec 2 sec 2 sec 2 sec 2 sec 2 sec
circuit
555
Sl. No. Technical Specifications/ Generator Transformer in Coal Generator Transformer in Station Transformer Station Transformer Unit Transformer Unit Transformer in LV Transformer (Dry 556
Particulars based power plants Gas based CCPP in Coal based power in Gas based CCPP in Coal based Gas based CCPP Type/ Oil immersed) in
plants power plants Coal/ Gas based power
plants
I CONSTRUCTION
33. Transformer tank cover Bell type Bell type Bell type/ Bell type/ Conventional Bell type/ Bell type/ Conventional Conventional
type Conventional Conventional
34. Cooler type & capacity 120% capacity radiator banks 120% capacity radiator banks 2 X 60 % Banks 2 X 60 % Banks 2 X 60 % Banks 2 X 60 % Banks 2 X 50 % Banks for oil
(minimum two (2) banks) with (minimum two (2) banks) immersed
arrangement of isolating 20% with arrangement of isolating
capacity of banks at a time so 20% capacity of banks at
that in case of leakage in one a time so that in case of
section, only that section will be leakage in one section, only
isolated not the whole bank. OR that section will be isolated
120% capacity Unit Coolers (min not the whole bank.
six (6) nos. coolers so that in
case of failure of one cooler also,
100% capacity is available)
Stand-by Fan & Pumps One number stand-by fan per One number stand-by fan One number stand-by One number stand-by One number stand- One number stand-by Not applicable
bank and one number stand-by per bank and one number fan per bank and one fan per bank by fan per bank and fan/ Bank
pump per bank for radiator banks stand-by pump per bank for number stand-by one number stand-
radiator banks pump per bank for by pump per bank
radiator banks for radiator banks
Noise level Max 85 dB Max 85 dB Max 85 dB Max 85 dB Max 85 dB Max 85 dB Max 85 dB
Finishing paint type Epoxy paint Epoxy paint Epoxy paint Epoxy paint Epoxy paint Epoxy paint Epoxy paint
Manual on Transformers
Paint shade As per projects requirement As per projects requirement As per projects As per projects As per projects As per projects As per projects
requirement requirement requirement requirement requirement
J INSULATION
35. Type of Winding HV- Non uniformly graded LV- HV- Non uniformly graded HV- Non uniformly HV- Non-uniformly HV- uniformly HV- uniformly graded HV- uniform LV- uniform
Insulation uniformly graded LV- uniformly graded graded LV- uniformly graded LV- uniformly graded LV LV- uniformly graded
graded graded uniformly graded
36. Class of winding Class-A Class-A Class-A Class-A Class-A Class-A Class-A (Oil filled) Class-
insulation F(Dry Type)
37. SI (Switching impulse)/ As per IS 2026& IS: 2099 As per IS 2026& IS: 2099 As per IS 2026& IS: As per IS 2026& IS: As per IS 2026& IS: As per IS 2026& IS: As per IS 2026& IS:
LI (Lightning impulse) / (Insulation level of HV winding (Insulation level of HV 2099 (Insulation level 2099 (Insulation level 2099 / IEC 60076 2099 / IEC 60076 2099 / IEC 60076
AC (Power Frequency & bushing to be verified with winding & bushing to be of HV winding & of HV winding &
AC withstand voltage) insulation co-ordination study) / verified with insulation co- bushing to be verified bushing to be verified
a) HV Bushing b) HV IEC 60076 ordination study) / IEC 60076 with insulation with insulation co-
Winding co-ordination study) / ordination study / IEC
IEC 60076 60076
Sl. No. Technical Specifications/ Generator Transformer in Coal Generator Transformer in Station Transformer Station Transformer Unit Transformer Unit Transformer in LV Transformer (Dry
Particulars based power plants Gas based CCPP in Coal based power in Gas based CCPP in Coal based Gas based CCPP Type/ Oil immersed) in
plants power plants Coal/ Gas based power
plants
38. LI (Lightning impulse) / As per IS 2026& IS:2099 / IEC As per IS 2026& IS:2099 / As per IS 2026& As per IS 2026& As per IS 2026& As per IS 2026& IS:2099 As per IS 2026& IS:2099
AC (Power frequency 60076 IEC 60076 IS:2099 /IEC 60076 IS:2099 /IEC 60076 IS:2099 /IEC 60076 /IEC 60076 /IEC 60076
withstand voltage) -HV
Neutral
39. LI (Lightning impulse) / As per IS 2026& IS:2099 / IEC As per IS 2026& IS:2099 / As per IS 2026& As per IS 2026& As per IS 2026& As per IS 2026& IS:2099 As per IS 2026& IS:2099
AC (Power frequency 60076 IEC 60076 IS:2099 / IEC 60076 IS:2099 / IEC 60076 IS:2099 / IEC 60076 / IEC 60076 / IEC 60076
withstand voltage) -LV
K BUSHINGS
40. Reference standard IS : 2099 / IEC 60137 IS : 2099 / IEC 60137 IS : 2099 / IEC IS : 2099 / IEC 60137 IS : 2099 / IEC IS : 2099 / IEC 60137 IS : 2099 / IEC 60137
60137 60137
41. HV Bushing (a). OIP condenser with test tap a. OIP condenser with test tap a. OIP condenser a. OIP condenser with a. Porcelain bushing a. Porcelain bushing a. Porcelain bushing/
(a). Type (b). As per IS 2026-III for rated b. As per IS 2026-III for with test tap test tap/ Porcelain b. As per IS 2026-III b. As per IS 2026-III for Cast Resin
(b). Voltage Class HV system voltage rated HV system voltage b. As per IS 2026-III bushing for rated HV system rated HV system voltage b. As per IS 2026
(c). Creepage distance (c). 31 mm/kV c. 31 mm/kV for rated HV system b. As per IS 2026-III voltage c. 20 mm/kV (for IPBD c. 25 mm / kV d. Cable
(d). Terminations (d). Suitable for terminating d. Suitable for terminating voltage for rated HV system c. 20 mm/kV (for terminations)
ACSR/AAC/AAAC overhead ACSR/AAC/AAAC c. 31 mm/kV voltage IPBD terminations) d. Bus duct terminations
conductors or IPS tubes (in overhead conductors or d. Suitable for c. 31 mm/kV d. Bus duct
case outdoor cable sealing IPS tubes terminating ACSR/ d. Suitable for terminations
arrangement is provided) AAC/AAAC terminating ACSR/
overhead conductors AAC/AAAC overhead
or IPS tubes (in case conductors or IPS tubes
outdoor cable sealing
arrangement is
provided)
42. LV Bushing (a). Oil communicating a. Oil communicating a. Porcelain bushing a. Porcelain bushing a. Porcelain bushing a. Porcelain bushing a. Porcelain bushing/
(a). Type condenser condenser b. As per IS 2026-III b. As per IS 2026-III b. As per IS 2026-III b. As per IS 2026-III for Epoxy Cast
(b). Voltage Class (b). As per IS 2026-III for rated b. As per IS 2026-III for rated for rated LV voltage for rated LV voltage for rated LV system rated LV system voltage b. As per IS 2026
(c). Creepage distance LV voltage LV voltage c. 25- 31 mm/kV c. 25- 31 mm/kV voltage c. 25- 31 mm/kV c. 25 mm / kV
(d). Terminations (c). 20 mm/kV (for IPBD c. 20 mm/kV (for IPBD d. SPBD d. SPBD c. 25- 31 mm/kV d. SPBD/ Cables d. Non Segregated Phase
terminations) terminations) d. SPBD Bus Duct (NSPBD)
Salient Technical Specifications and Particulars of Power Transformers for Power Plant Application
When bushing current transformers are provided in power transformers, a test winding (a one
turn winding over and above secondary winding) shall be provided to test the CT characteristics
without passing current through the primary (i.e., transformer bushing) which will be difficult .
This one turn test winding shall be suitable to carry 10A (minimum). In certain cases, it may be
more convenient to provide test tappings, one being at one end of the secondary winding and the
other at the center of the secondary winding. The test terminals should be physically separated
from output terminals of the secondary winding and preferably of slightly larger size.
When test winding is energized, the primary winding should be open circuited. Conversely,
when the primary winding is employed (i.e., when power transformer is energized), the test
winding should be kept open circuited. One of the test terminals shall be kept grounded in
service and shall be shown in rating & diagram plate.
Test winding is not recommended for current transformers for metering and for winding
temperature indication. Test winding terminals shall be marked as below:
Fig. 1 Current Transformer with two secondary Fig. 2 Current Transformer with two secondary
windings having Separate magnetic and Common Test Winding
coreswindings having Separate magnetic
cores and Test Winding
(1) BS 3938: 1973 Current Transformers, Appendix H Current Transformer test windings.
561
Appendix IX
565
566 Manual on Transformers
PLATE 15: RECTIFIER TRANSFORMER ALONG WITH RECTIFIER CUBICLE INSTALLED AT SITE
CORE GROUP
Chairman LAN: 0532 -2699990-Extn 1408,
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ALSTOM T&D India Ltd
Naini, Allahabad 211008
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Sr. Advisor - Design & Development M: +91 97 243 32977
Power Transformers Division p.ramachandran@in.abb.com
ABB Ltd., Maneja, Vadodara – 390013
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Transformers and Rectifiers (India) Limited virendra.lakhiani@transformerindia.com;
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General Manager dinkar@ntpceoc.co.in
NTPC Ltd.
A-8A, Sector 24, Noida - 201301
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Power Grid Corporation of India Ltd. mgoswami@powergridindia.com
Saudamini, Plot No. 2, Sector 29
Gurgaon – 122001
Shri V.K. Kanjlia Phone 91-11-26115984
Secretary M : 9810137864
Central Board of Irrigation & Power Fax 91-11-26116347
Malcha Marg, Chanakyapuri Email kanjlia@cbip.org
New Delhi 110021
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Director M : 9810801555
Central Board of Irrigation & Power Email wahi@cbip.org
Malcha Marg, Chanakyapuri
New Delhi 110021
Shri S.K. Batra Phone 91-11-26876229 ext. 133
Sr. Manager (Technical) M: 9811943812
Central Board of Irrigation & Power Fax 26116347
Malcha Marg, Chanakyapuri Email batra@cbip.org;
New Delhi 110021 cbip@cbip.org