Temperature Rise Test
The temperature rise test is an important test performed on electrical transformers to determine their thermal efficiency and performance when they are operating under different load conditions. Under temperature rise test, we measure the temperature of different components of a transformer such as windings, core, oil, tank, etc. under operating conditions.
The data about temperature of the transformer components help us to optimize the performance and efficiency of the transformer and load the transformer safely without breakdown. For an electrical transformer, it is important to limit the temperature rise within a specified limit so that it can operate efficiently.
Thus, the primary goals of temperature rise test of a transformer are listed below:
- To determine the thermal performance of a transformer so that the temperature of different components does not exceed a specified limit.
- It helps to evaluate that the transformers insulation is in good quality and the cooling system is working properly.
Procedure of Temperature Rise Test
The step-by-step procedure of temperature rise test of electrical transformer is explained below:
- Bring the transformer in the condition of stable and normal temperature.
- Connect an electrical load of rated capacity of the transformer.
- Measure the temperature of various components of the transformer such as primary and secondary windings, magnetic core, oil, and other components.
- Calculate the rise in the temperature of different components. For this simply, subtract the initial temperature from the measured value during the test.
- Compare the calculated temperature rise values with the standard values specified by the manufacturer of the transformer.
While performing the temperature rise test on a transformer, take care that the external environmental factors do not affect the test’s accuracy. If the values of temperature rise are as per the design specifications, then the transformer can operate safely at the rated load without any failure due to excessive heating.
The temperature rise test of transformer is one of the important transformer tests that helps to determine the loading capacity of the transformer and ensure that the transformer is safer to operate. It also helps to improve the lifespan of the transformer.
Transformer Testing
Transformer testing is a process of examining a transformer to determine its health i.e., whether it is working properly or not. On an electrical transformer, we can perform various types of tests to measure its performance and efficiency and to take corrective actions.
As we know, in electrical systems, an electrical transformer is one of the most important and commonly used electrical machines that perform voltage and current transformation. Thus, the primary function of an electrical transformer is to increase or decrease the value of voltage or current in an electrical or electronic circuit. To perform this voltage step-up or step-down operation, the transformer utilizes the phenomenon of electromagnetic induction.
To ensure the desirable and proper operation of a transformer, we perform a variety of tests on it such as winding resistance measurement, insulation resistance measurement, dielectric strength measurement, and more. The group of transformer tests is referred to by using an umbrella term, transformer testing. This article will explain the concept of transformer testing and different tests that are to be performed on a transformer daily, quarterly basis, and yearly basis. Let’s get started with the basic definition of transformer testing.
Table of Content
- Transformer Testing
- Types
- Type Test
- Routine Tests
- Special Tests
- Pre Commissioning Test