Determination of Power transformer Core problem with Overexcitation.

Introduction:

Power transformers are a vital link in transmission and generation of power. Any
problem in health of transformer due to dielectric one, Hot spot, Bushing, Partial
discharge etc. will immensely hamper availability of quality power to end user
thereby affecting economic output.

Objective:

To determine a way in finding out Power transformer core problem, which are unable
to detect through normal testing.

Method
In case the transformer is overexcited for some duration and dissolved gas analysis of
transformer oil is carried out to infer the problem.

Results
Any defect in core can be determined at works with suitable corrective action.
 CPRI : International Conference on Power Transformers
ABSTRACT
NTPC Ltd., Noida
ABSTRACT
Over-excitation
Power transformers are an importantTest
link infor Power
a power Transformers
system meaning thereby their healthiness
is related to successful operation of a power system. The vital components of Power
transformers are core, conductor and composite insulation of oil, cellulose, paper etc. Any
defect in design or manufacturing directly affect the insulation system leading to transformer
failure. It is essential to take care of any problem during manufacturing itself so as to avoid
failures at sites & subsequent loss of generation/transmission.
It has been observed that some new transformers start giving problem just after
commissioning / initial charging. Failure analysis of these transformers were carried out &
one of the reason which emerged is Transformer Core. Manufacturing Transformer Core
requires a technical expertise & a dedicated work environment during handling & assembly of
core. Unfortunately there are no established tests to check the core healthiness after the
Transformer is assembled. Also the standard tests do not drive the transformer core in over-
excitation condition for long time. Case studies are there wherein the faulty transformers
subjected the over-excitation have revealed the problems in core.
The paper brings out a view on testing of core through over excitation testing for certain
duration and testing for dissolved gas analysis of transformer oil before and after over-
excitation. This test will eventually help in manufacturing a quality transformer. The case
studies are discussed which support such a way of testing, reinforces a need to incorporate
said method in testing of critical power transformers particularly Generator Transformers and
Inter Connecting Transformers.
Learning Objectives:
1. Present tests for core testing.
2. Problems being faced at site.
3. Correlation of dissolved gas analysis with core defect.
4. Issue related to core manufacturing/assembly.
Learning Outcome:
1. Precautions to be taken during core manufacturing & assembly.
2. Over excitation test for certain duration after assembly of transformer.
3. Dissolved gas analysis before and after over excitation test.