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6th International Colloquium "Transformer Research and Asset Management"

A special issue of Energies (ISSN 1996-1073). This special issue belongs to the section "F: Electrical Engineering".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 2 June 2024 | Viewed by 5304

Special Issue Editors


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Guest Editor
Department of Electrical Engineering Fundamentals and Measurements, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
Interests: computational electromagnetics; FEM; BEM; multiphysics; transformers

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Guest Editor
Končar Power Transformers, A joint Venture of Siemens Energy and Končar, 10090 Zagreb, Croatia
Interests: electromagnetics; FEM; optimization; power efficiency; Lean

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Guest Editor
KONČAR - Electrical Engineering Institute Ltd., BU Laboratory Center, Transformers Department, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
Interests: transformers, transients, EMTP, modelling, measurements, FEM, electromagnetics

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Guest Editor
KONČAR - Electrical Engineering Institute Ltd., BU Laboratory Center, Transformers Department, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
Interests: numerical modelling; electromagnetics; FEM; multiphysics; insulation, transients; transformers; measurements

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Transformers are a vital part of the electrical transmission network, without which today's life is unthinkable. A demanding task is the development of transformers that, with minimal maintenance, can work for several decades. The scope of the Special Issue is not limited to the knowledge of the most critical aspects of power and instruments transformers and its components, such as: transformer insulating and magnetic materials, transformers oils, load tap changers, bushings and cooling system, but also includes transformer failures, loading, diagnostic testing, and on-line monitoring.

The theme of this Special Issue is, therefore, all aspects of interest to both manufacturers and power system operators.

Topics of interest for publication include, but are not limited to:

  • Power transformers technologies;
  • Instrument transformers technologies;
  • Numerical modelling in transformer design;
  • Properties and behaviours of insulating and magnetic materials and components;
  • Digitalization and smart-grid;
  • Transformer in-service experience;
  • Transformer failures, diagnostics;
  • Transformer monitoring, asset management and resilience.

Dr. Bojan Trkulja
Dr. Žarko Janić
Dr. Bruno Jurišić
Dr. Tomislav Župan
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Energies is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • power transformers
  • instrument transformers
  • modelling
  • smart-grid
  • insulating and magnetic materials
  • diagnostics
  • failures

Published Papers (6 papers)

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Research

14 pages, 1585 KiB  
Article
A Combined Computational Fluid Dynamics and Thermal–Hydraulic Modeling Approach for Improving the Thermal Performance of Corrugated Tank Transformers: A Comparative Study
by Chunping Wang, Qingjun Sun, Ali Al-Abadi and Wei Wu
Energies 2024, 17(8), 1802; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17081802 - 9 Apr 2024
Viewed by 454
Abstract
In this study, we present a complete analysis of the thermal behavior of an oil-filled distribution transformer using two different approaches: numerically, by applying computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations; and analytically, by using thermal–hydraulic modelling (THM). The THM method becomes challenging when the [...] Read more.
In this study, we present a complete analysis of the thermal behavior of an oil-filled distribution transformer using two different approaches: numerically, by applying computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations; and analytically, by using thermal–hydraulic modelling (THM). The THM method becomes challenging when the corrugated transformer tank wall structures are complex, and therefore CFD simulations are required to provide in-depth details of the winding oil thermal–hydraulic behavior and to generate parameters for improving the THM calculation. The numerical and analytical thermal performance results were then compared with heat-run measurements of a case study transformer and the accuracy of both approaches on different thermal performance parameters was validated. This study has certain reference value for improving the thermal performance and operation efficiency of distribution transformers, and eventually aims to provide engineers with an effective tool to design the most efficient and reliable distribution transformers with corrugated tank walls for various applications. Full article
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14 pages, 5991 KiB  
Article
Test Methods for Validating Inductive Transformer Performance during Cable Discharge: Main Principles, Parameters and Testing Procedures
by Andrea Grđan, Igor Žiger, Zlatko Hanić, Imre Tannemaat, Ralf Huth and Ivan Novko
Energies 2024, 17(4), 799; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17040799 - 7 Feb 2024
Viewed by 466
Abstract
High voltage connections will discharge through inductive voltage and combined transformers when they are switched off. In the past, there was a wide margin between the required capabilities and the actual capabilities of these components. Nowadays, however, this aspect is becoming more prominent [...] Read more.
High voltage connections will discharge through inductive voltage and combined transformers when they are switched off. In the past, there was a wide margin between the required capabilities and the actual capabilities of these components. Nowadays, however, this aspect is becoming more prominent due to a higher penetration by cable systems into the grid. Currently, none of the relevant international standards contain any definitions or requirements for line discharge, nor test methods which would validate the ability of the transformer to discharge a line of certain capacitance at a certain voltage. This is why the aim of this paper is to provide a foundation for how to specify, assess and verify the capacitive discharge performance of instrument transformers. This paper will present the basic theory, influencing parameters, multiple test sequences and acceptance criteria for cable discharge. It is clear that capacitive discharges present both thermal and mechanical stress to the unit, which is why this paper will detail how to guarantee both aspects. The idea is that this paper serves as a literal blueprint which can then be transferred to the relevant clauses in upcoming international standards. All conclusions within this paper are achieved through calculations and testing on actual 123 kV inductive voltage transformers and combined units. Full article
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15 pages, 23011 KiB  
Article
Comparison of Empty and Oil-Filled Transformer Tank Mode Shapes Using Experimental and FEM Modal Analysis
by Karlo Petrović, Danilo Dobrić, Ivan Gotić and Tomislav Župan
Energies 2024, 17(3), 589; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17030589 - 25 Jan 2024
Viewed by 604
Abstract
In this paper, the mode shapes of an empty and oil-filled transformer experimental model tank are obtained using 3D finite element method (FEM) modal analysis. For verification of the FEM analysis results, experimental modal analysis (EMA) is carried out in both cases using [...] Read more.
In this paper, the mode shapes of an empty and oil-filled transformer experimental model tank are obtained using 3D finite element method (FEM) modal analysis. For verification of the FEM analysis results, experimental modal analysis (EMA) is carried out in both cases using appropriate impact hammers and accelerometers. Simulated and measured results are visualized and compared for mode shapes in a frequency range of interest for both empty and oil-filled tanks. In order to avoid overly stiff FEM models of transformer tanks, the welded joint modeling technique is presented and analyzed in detail. For an oil-filled tank, the most accurate results are calculated in the model where the welded joint is modeled as half the tank wall’s thickness. In that case, the mean absolute error for the given ten-mode shapes is 1.7 Hz. Also, mesh sensitivity analysis is performed. It is concluded that a 10 mm maximum element size is an optimal solid (3D) mesh. However, shell mesh can be used to reduce computing requirements. Full article
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14 pages, 30436 KiB  
Article
Theoretical Study of Liquid Flow and Temperature Distribution in OF-Cooled Power Transformers
by Uroš Plaznik, Blaž Breznik and Borut Prašnikar
Energies 2024, 17(3), 571; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17030571 - 24 Jan 2024
Viewed by 649
Abstract
The objective of the paper is to analyse the effects of various geometrical and operating parameters on the liquid flow distribution in OF-cooled power transformers. Our investigation includes two cases: one with a simplified winding geometry and another that closely resembles the actual [...] Read more.
The objective of the paper is to analyse the effects of various geometrical and operating parameters on the liquid flow distribution in OF-cooled power transformers. Our investigation includes two cases: one with a simplified winding geometry and another that closely resembles the actual winding geometry. The analyses were carried out using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and custom, internally developed thermo-hydraulic models. Our findings confirm that buoyancy forces rather than the pump drive the liquid flow within the windings of an OF-cooled power transformer. The results also show that the liquid flow distribution, which is influenced by the winding geometrical properties and liquid properties, has a significant impact on the hot-spot temperatures of the windings. The comparison between the results of the CFD simulations and the results of the simple model demonstrates a high level of agreement in calculating both the mass flow rates and temperatures. Full article
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15 pages, 5167 KiB  
Article
Internal Arc Performance of Instrument Transformers Filled with Different Dielectric Liquids
by Ivan Mihoković, Anton Rački, Igor Žiger and Eduard Plavec
Energies 2024, 17(2), 493; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17020493 - 19 Jan 2024
Viewed by 710
Abstract
Internal arc testing is still a controversial topic in the instrument transformer world. The main reason for that is the fact that even a fully successful test guarantees only a certain degree of transformer safety. Furthermore, the test does not cover a plethora [...] Read more.
Internal arc testing is still a controversial topic in the instrument transformer world. The main reason for that is the fact that even a fully successful test guarantees only a certain degree of transformer safety. Furthermore, the test does not cover a plethora of operational fault scenarios and has requirements which are not defined clearly enough. In addition, there are very few data available in the literature on the internal arc performance of alternative, biodegradable dielectric liquids. Some liquids (such as natural and synthetic esters) do inherently come with higher flash and fire points compared to conventional mineral oil, but there is insufficient test experience to corroborate the influence this high fire point has on the actual operation. Specifically, to the authors’ knowledge, internal arc tests on instrument transformers were never performed with biodegradable dielectric liquids, making the contributions of this paper a true world premiere. In short, this paper is intended to augment the existing standards, thus providing additional insight into how to test internal arc performance, what to look out for and what level of performance to expect, which is of broad interest to researchers, utility engineers and public alike. Full article
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15 pages, 5000 KiB  
Article
Influence of Cooling Management to Transformer Efficiency and Ageing
by Zarko Janic, Nebojsa Gavrilov and Ivica Roketinec
Energies 2023, 16(12), 4626; https://doi.org/10.3390/en16124626 - 10 Jun 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1494
Abstract
Transformer efficiency is a key concern for both transformer operators and regulators, particularly with regards to new transformers. Cooling is a critical factor in preventing overheating and controlling the ageing of transformer insulation. This paper aims to analyse how different cooling setups can [...] Read more.
Transformer efficiency is a key concern for both transformer operators and regulators, particularly with regards to new transformers. Cooling is a critical factor in preventing overheating and controlling the ageing of transformer insulation. This paper aims to analyse how different cooling setups can influence efficiency. Transformer losses depend on the winding temperature, which is affected by load, ambient temperature, and cooling power. In this study, we will take all of these factors into consideration to examine their impact on transformer losses. Using a 520 MVA transformer as an example, we will calculate the loss levels under different realistic ambient temperature and load profiles. We will also apply different cooling system settings to determine the optimization possibilities. Our calculations will consider different turn-on temperatures of the fans and cooling stages and will use steady state calculations over a period of 12 months. Additionally, a novel approach to control cooling by using the loading of the transformer is present, as are the possibilities of using variable speed fans. Finally, we will estimate the influence of cooling settings on transformer ageing by examining their impact on temperature. Full article
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