Warning and Tripping Temperatures The Effect of Loading beyond Nameplate Rating

The design temperatures for cast resin transformers using insulation class F are defined in IEC 60076-11 4.2.3. Same IEC Table 2 defines the "average winding temperature rise limits at rated current", which is 100K for the "insulation system temperature 155(F)". According to this paragraph the maximum operating temperature (independently on the ambient temperature - see 11.2) is 140C. "The maximum temperature occurring in any part of the winding insulation system is called the hot-spot temperature. The hot spottemperature shall not exceed the rated value of the hot-spot winding temperature specified in Table 1 of IEC 60076-12" (see IEC 60076-11 11.1), which is 145C for the thermal class F. Based on the above terms of reference as well as based on several internal measurements, Siemens decided to use 140C as limit for warning and 160C as limit for tripping temperatures for the GEAFOL transformers. This assures an operation with the rated power and a "normal life expectancy" of approx. 20 years. Remarks: When 140C are reached, means when warning is given the customer should take adequate measures for reducing the transformer load. The effect of loading beyond nameplate rating reduces the expected life time considerably. However the transformer may remain in operation until the 160C limit has been achieved. It is very important to know that "a hot-spot temperature of as little as 6C below rated values results in half the rated loss of life" and that "the actual lifetime of a transformer typically exceeds 20 years" - see Note 3 IEC 60076-12 5.2 page 10. The contrary is also valid: The operation with 6C above rated values results in half of the life time.

Tinel Banica

17.02.2011