Experimental Investigation of the Temperature Distribution within the Low Voltage Winding of a Large Power Transformer

Abstract:
Power transformers are key components applied for the distribution in electrical power networks. Their power rating and life time cycle are strongly dependent on thermal aspects. Detailed knowledge of the temperature distribution inside a transformer winding is therefore crucial for the reliable operation of power transformers. This paper describes the experimental investigation of a model for the low-voltage winding of an oil-cooled power transformer. The aim of the brought out measurements is to gain an insight into the basic relationships and possible influences on the temperature distribution within a transformer winding. The investigated factors comprise the oil flow rate and heat losses inside the conductors as well as the oil temperature at the inlet of the transformer winding. Because these results can also be used for validation of results from computational fluid dynamics, finally, a comparison of corresponding results is presented.