Transformer Basics Chapter 1 http://www.federalpacific.com/university/transbasics/chapter5.

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Frequency

The transformer cannot change the frequency of the supply. If the

supply is 60 hertz, the output will also be 60 hertz.

Impedance

The impedance (or resistance to current flow) is important and

used to calculate the maximum short circuit current which is
needed for sizing, circuit breakers and fuses. Impedance is
expressed as a percent. This percentage represents the amount
of normal rated primary voltage which must be applied to the
transformer to produce full rated load current when the secondary
winding is short circuited. The maximum short circuit current that
can be obtained from the output of the transformer is limited by
the impedance of the transformer and is determined by the
multiplying the reciprocal of the impedance timed the full load
current . Thus, if a transformer has 5% impedance, the reciprocal
of .05 is 20 and maximum short circuit current is 20 times the full
load current.
Insulation System and Temperature Rise
All Federal Pacific FH class transformers are designed with 220
o o
C insulation systems. The standard units are rated X0 C rise.
The insulation system classification represents the maximum
temperature permitted in the hottest spot in the winding when
o
operated in a 40 C maximum ambient. The hotspot temperature
is determined by adding the maximum value for each of the
following:
o
40 C maximum ambient
o
150 C maximum average winding rise
30 oC maximum hot spot in winding
220 oC ultimate temperature at hot spot

The temperature rise commonly associated with transformers is

the temperature of the conductor inside the coil and does not
apply to the outside surface. The wiring compartment is ventilated
o
and cooled enough to permit the use of 60 C cable for
o
connections. Some customers will specify 220 C insulation with
80 oC or 115 oC rise to get overloaded capability, better
efficiency, and longer life. These transformers are designed to
operate with a lower rise per the following example at 80 oC rise

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o
40 C maximum ambient
o
80 C maximum average winding rise
30 oC maximum hot spot in winding
30 oC thermal overload 30%
o
220 C ultimate temperature at hot spot

There may be differences between the voltage ratings of

transformers and the rated voltage of some utilization equipment.
Some equipment may be rated 230, 460, or 575 volts to allow
drop due to impedance of wire, circuit breakers, ect. The
respective transformer secondary voltages would be rated 240,
480, and 600 volts which are the system or source voltage . If you
are asked to quote on a transfer rated 460V primary, 115/230V
secondary would be proper to quote a transformer rated 480V
primary, 120/240V secondary

Basic Impulse Insulation Levels (BIL)

Outdoor electrical distribution systems are subject to lightning

surges. Even if the lightning strikes the line some distance from
the transformer, voltage surges can travel down the line and into
the transformer. High voltage switches and circuit breakers can
also create similar voltage surges when they are opened and
closed. Both types of surges have steep wave fronts and can be
very damaging to electrical equipment . To minimize the effects of
these surges, the electrical system is protected by lighting
arresters but they do not completely eliminate the surge from
reaching the transformer. The basic impulse level (BIL) of the
transformer measures its ability to withstand these surges. All 600
volt and below transformers are related 10 KV BIL. The 2400 and
4160 volt transformers are rated 25 KV BIL.
Transformer Sound/Noise

A Humming is an inherent characteristic of transformers due to the

vibration caused by alternating flux in the magnetic core. Sound
levels will vary according to transformers due to the vibration
caused by alternating flux in the magnetic core. Sound levels will
vary according to transformer size.Attention to installation
methods can help reduce any objectionable noise. When possible
,locate the transformer in an area where the ambient sound will be
equal or greater than the noise of the transformer sound level.
Avoid locating units in corners. Make connections with flexible
conduits and couplings to prevent transmitting vibration to other
equipment. Larger units should be installed on flexible mountings
to isolate the transformer from the building structure.

Sound Level In Decibles

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KVA Nema ST-20

150 Degrees Celcius Rise K-1 Average
0-9 40
10-50 45
51-150 850
151-300 55
301-500 60
501-700 62
701-1000 64

We know that the air is thinner at higher altitudes which, in turn,

reduces its ability to cool the transformer. Therefore, standard
dry-type self cooled transformers are designed to operate with
normal temperature rise at heights through 3300 feet above sea
level. If the operation is at higher altitudes, the rating should be
reduced 0.3% for each 330 feet above 3300 feet.

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