Estimating transformer parameters for partial discharge location

Partial discharge (PD) location in power transformers using electrical methods require transformer parameters to estimate the PD location. Previous research using a lumped parameter model of a transformer consisting of inductance (L), series capacitance (K) and shunt capacitance (C) has shown an algorithm for PD location. This algorithm does not require L, K and C values for the transformer in their explicit form. Rather, the products LC and LK are required. This paper presents three methods of estimating LC and LK values for a power transformer, which could then be used for PD location. The paper shows that all three methods give identical results confirming that either of these methods could be used for estimating LC and LK values. Results based on impedance measurements from two transformer windings are also presented

Investigation of propagation of partial discharges in power transformers and techniques for locating the discharge

The location of partial discharges in a power transformer can be determined based on the characteristics of the transfer function from the discharge source to the measuring terminal. Previous studies partially validated the technique using computer simulation and practical experiments based on a PD calibrator to represent a discharge signal. 'Real' discharges produced by insulation defect models were used to study how discharges propagate in an 11 kV plain-disc-type transformer winding: A corona model and a 'floating objects in oil' model produced discharge signals with different durations at various locations along the winding. Measurements were taken at the tap of the bushing capacitance through a conventional discharge detector. The signals were filtered, amplified and fed into a digital storage oscilloscope. The frequency spectra of the measured signals showed significant similarities irrespective of the type of discharge source. The characteristic of the transfer functions, i.e. the crests and troughs in the spectra, could be used for locating the source of the discharge. Energising the transformer increased the level of electric noise, which did affect the low frequency end of the spectra, but did not have any impact on the characteristics used for location

A measurements-based discharge location algorithm for plain disc winding power transformers

A measurements-based electrical method for locating partial discharges (PD) in transformers is described in the paper. This location method relies on the series resonance frequencies of the signals produced at the transformer terminals by a discharge on the winding. Based on the equivalent circuit of plain disc type winding which consists of series inductance (L), series capacitance (K) and shunt capacitance to earth (C) of the winding, an analytical location algorithm is derived which gives the relationship between the location of a discharge and its terminal response's series resonance frequencies. LKC parameters of the equivalent circuit can be estimated using the series resonance frequencies of a calibration signal measured at the bushing tap during PD calibration. The PD location algorithm was tested on 11 kV transformer winding using signals produced by a discharge simulator and real discharges, and the results confirm its validity with a location accuracy of better than 10% of the winding length. However, blind area where this location algorithm is not applicable does exist near the neutral of the winding and far away from the measuring terminal. Since this location algorithm uses the series resonance frequencies below 500 kHz, it can be implemented with conventional PD measuring circuitry and instruments to detect and locate discharges in power transformers

Simulation of a transformer winding for partial discharge propagation studies

A simulation model of a continuous disc type 6.6 kV transformer winding was used to study the propagation behaviour of partial discharge (PD) pulses. The model based on multi-conductor transmission line theory uses a single turn as a circuit element with the capacitance, inductance, and losses calculated as distributed parameters. Transfer functions that describe how the location of the PD source affects the current signals measured at the terminals of the winding were calculated. The paper shows how the position of the zeros in the frequency response of the measured current signals can be used to locate the source of the discharge. Sensitivity studies on the parameters of the model were used to investigate the effect of inaccuracies in the model on the position of the zeros and hence the location of the discharge

Experimental investigation into the propagation of partial discharge pulses in transformers

An experimental investigation into the propagation behaviour of partial discharge (PD) pulses in a continuous disc type 6.6kV transformer winding is described in this paper. PD pulses were injected into the winding using a calibrator and the resulting current signals at the line and neutral end terminals measured using wide band current transformers. The location of the troughs (or zeros) in the frequency spectra of the measured signals change in accordance with the position of the injected pulse. The crests (or poles) in the spectra convey information about the resonance frequencies of the winding and are not affected by the position of the injected pulse. The measured spectra are compared with the spectra generated by a simulation model and although differences exist the overall shape and location of the poles and zeros are similar

An electrical PD location method applied to a continuous disc type transformer winding

A 6.6 kV continuous disc type winding of a distribution transformer is used to investigate the propagation of partial discharges (PD) with the aim of location. The winding was modelled, as multiconductor transmission lines with each turn represented by a transmission line. This approach results in the model being valid up to a few MHz in frequency. The validity of the model was confirmed by impedance measurements on the winding. The transfer functions calculated between probable PD source locations to winding terminals showed that the troughs (or zeros) change in frequency with the location of PD source and hence can be used for the location of PD. Transfer functions obtained experimentally using a discharge calibrator as the PD source, showed very good agreement with the calculations

FAULT LOCATION ON A DISTRIBUTION FEEDER USING FAULT GENERATED HIGH FREQUENCY CURRENT SIGNATURES

This paper describes how the fault generated travelling waves detected in the current signals at a single location on a distribution feeder can be used for fault location. The method identifies the fault section and the probable location of the fault by comparing the relative distance of each “peak” in the high frequency current signals to the known reflection points in the distribution feeder. The probable fault location is then used within a transient power system simulator that models the actual network. The resulting simulated current waveforms are then cross-correlated against the original signal. If the estimated fault location is correct, the high frequency signatures in the simulated waveform will be similar to those of the measured waveforms and the cross-correlation value will be a high positive value. If the signatures differ, the cross correlation value  will be negative or small. The simulation and correlation process is repeated with the next “most likely” fault location until a high degree of correlation is obtained. Simulation studies using PSCAD/EMTDC and analysis using cross-correlation suggest that this method can accurately locate a fault on a distribution feeder using measurements at a single location