Over heating of distribution transformer

Transformers can get heated due to a variety of reasons. Excessive heating of the transformer increases
transformer losses, weakens the insulation and may result in reduced transformer life. The principal
reasons for transformer overheating are;-

Overload

Excessive loading can cause overheating. Transformers are rated in kVA. This
kVA rating is dependent on temperature. Some transformers have two kVA
ratings. One rating is for below a specifi c ambient temperature, say 45 degrees
while another rating is above the ambient temperature.

Excess current in the neutral of the transformer

Excess current in the neutral of the transformer is usually caused by high zero
sequence harmonic components. This can be resolved by proper grounding
usually through a zig zag transformer

Problems in the Cooling system

malfunctioning of the cooling equipment such as blockages in the cooling oil

circuit. Failure of the cooling fans to operate in the case of For ced Air cooling
systems.

High Harmonic content in the power supply

High harmonic loads can also cause heating in the transformer. These loads need
to be identified and suitable remedial measures such as harmonic filters can be
implemented.

Sustained Overvoltages

Overvoltages which exist for a long period of time can overexcite the transformer
and cause overheating.

Over loading of distribution transformer

Distribution Transformers are generally not recommended for continuous overloading. however
overloading for a short duration cannot be avoided. It is one of the prime responsibilities of the
utilities to keep a check on the loading of a transformer and should record the loading Patton on a
history card. In case of overloading the additional loss generates more heat, which effects the
burning of winding insulation, causing ultimate failure of the transformer..

In most cases, it has been observed that the Line Operators use higher rating of re-wirable fuses
to avoid frequent breakdown of supply caused by overloading necessitating replacement of fuses.

Proper sizes of fuse elements on both H.T and L.T side will definitely reduce the probability of
failure of transformer due to overloading. Measurement of load current with a Tong Tester at
frequent intervals, especially during peak loading hours, will give a fair idea about the load
demand of the locality.

Types of faults occur in distribution transformer.

Types of Faults
Electrical fault is the deviation of voltages and currents from nominal values or states. Under
normal operating conditions, power system equipment or lines carry normal voltages and
currents which results in a safer operation of the system.

But when fault occurs, it causes excessively high currents to flow which causes the damage to
equipments and devices. Fault detection and analysis is necessary to select or design suitable
switchgear equipments, electromechanical relays, circuit breakers and other protection devices.

There are mainly two types of faults in the electrical power system. Those are symmetrical and
unsymmetrical faults.

1.Symmetrical faults

These are very severe faults and occur infrequently in the power systems. These are also called
as balanced faults and are of two types namely line to line to line to ground (L-L-L-G) and line
to line to line (L-L-L).
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Only 2-5 percent of system faults are symmetrical faults. If these faults occur, system remains
balanced but results in severe damage to the electrical power system equipments.

Above figure shows two types of three phase symmetrical faults. Analysis of these fault is easy
and usually carried by per phase basis. Three phase fault analysis or information is required for
selecting set-phase relays, rupturing capacity of the circuit breakers and rating of the protective
switchgear.

2.Unsymmetrical faults

These are very common and less severe than symmetrical faults. There are mainly three types
namely line to ground (L-G), line to line (L-L) and double line to ground (LL-G) faults.