ANSI/IEEE C57.12.

90-1987

test code for liquid-immersed distribution,

power, and regulating transformers
and guide for short-circuit testing of
distribution and power transformers

Aprd I, 1988 SH11247

 ANSI / IEEE C57.12.90-1987
(Revisionof ANSI / IEEE C57.12.90-1980)

An American National Standard

IEEE Standard Test Code for Liquid-Immersed
Distribution, Power, and Regulating Transformers
and
IEEE Guide for Short-circuit Testing of
Distribution and Power Transformers

Sponsor
Transformers Committee of the
IEEE Power Engineering Society

Approved June 13, 1985

IEEE Standards Board

Secretariat
Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers
National Electrical Manufacturers Association

Approved March 18, 1987

American National Standards Institute

0 Copyright 1988 by

The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, Inc

345 East 47th Street, New York, NY 10017, USA
,Vo part of this publication m a y be reproduced i n a n y f o r m ,
i n an electronic retneiial system o r otheruwe,
without the p n o r u l r ~ f t e permission
n of the publisher.
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 Foreword

(This Foreword is not a part of ANSIIIEEE C57.12.90-1987, IEEE Standard Test Code for Liquid-Immersed Distribution,
Power, and Regulating Transformers, and IEEE Guide for Short-Circuit Testing of Distribution and Power Transformers.)

This ANSI/IEEE C57.12.90-1987 standard is a voluntary consensus standard. Its use may become
mandatory only when required by a duly constituted legal authority, or when specified in a contractual
relationship. To meet specialized needs and to allow innovation, specific changes are permissible
when mutually determined by the user and the producer, provided such changes do not violate
existing laws, and are considered technically adequate for the function intended.
When this standard is used on a mandatory basis, the words shall and must indicate mandatory
requirements, and the words should or may refer to matters that are recommended or permissive,
but not mandatory.
In this revision of ANSI/IEEE C57.12.90, Section 10, which covers Dielectric Test Requirements,
has been extensively revised. Background information on the need for and the basis of these changes
is published in IEEE Power Transformer Considerations of Current Interest to the Utility Engineer,
84 EHO 209-7-PWR. This tutorial text is available from IEEE Service Center, 445 Hoes Lane, PO
Box 1331, Piscataway, N J 08855-1331.
This standard was prepared by a special task force of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics
Engineers. It was approved by the IEEE Transformers Committee, the IEEE Standards Board, and
the ANSI C57 Committee for Distribution and Power Transformers and Regulators. The applicable
rules and procedures of IEEE and ANSI for the preparation and approval of voluntary consensus
standards were followed. These specify procedures for voting, review and attempted reconciliation
of dissenting viewpoints, a 60-day public review period, and final review and approval by the ANSI
Board of Standards Review.

At the time it approved this standard, C57 had the following membership:

Robert Ensign, Chairman L. S. McCormick, Vice Chairman

C. H. White, Secretary
Organization Represented Name of Representative

American National Standards Institute . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C. Zegers

Electric Light and Power G r o u p , . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Wayne Cole
G. Gunnels
P. Orehek
D. Soffrin ( A l t )
J. Sullivan ( A l t )
A. Velazquez
Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Olin Compton
J. Bonucchi
J. C. Dutton
Robert Ensign
L. McCormick
W. Neiswander
H. Smith ( A l t )
W. H. Tucker
National Electrical Manufacturers Association . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . K. Linsley
P. Cacalloro ( A l t )
P. Dewever ( A l t )
J. D. Douglass
W. C. Kendall
G. W. Mayall
W. J. McNutt
L. S. McCormick
J. Nay (AZt)
T. Rebach
D. Strang (AZt)
R. E. Uptegraff, Jr
Testing Laboratory Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . W. OGrady
R. Seelbach
Tennessee Valley Authority. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . L. R. Smith
US Department o f t h e Navy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . H. Stickley
US Department of Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D. Torgerson
US Department o f t h e Interior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . F, Cook, S r
US DA REA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . J . Arnold,Jr
 The Task Force that developed the revision to this standard had the following membership:

George Iliff, Chairman

Felix Cook Charlie Honey L. S. McCormick
John Elbert Bill Kennedy Bob Veitch
The following persons were on the balloting committee that approved this document for submission
to the IEEE Standards Board:
L. C. Aicher M. Frydman S. P. Mehta
J. Alacchi H. E. Gabel, J r N. J. Melton
D. J . Allan C. M. Gardam C. K. Miller
B. F. Allen D. A. Gillies C. Millian
R. Allustiarti A. W. Goldman R. E. Minkwitz, S r
R. J. Alton W. F. Griffard C. E. Mitchell
S. J . Antalis R. L. Grubb R. J. Musil
E. H. Arjeski G. Gunnels W. H. Mutschler
J . C. Arnold G. Hall E. T. Norton
R. Bancroft J . H. Harlow R. A. Olsson
P. L. Bellaschi T. K. Hawkins H. J . Ottevangers
S. Bennon F. W. Heinrichs H. A. Pearce
J. J . Bergeron J . J . Herrera D. D. Perco
J . V. Bonucchi K. R. Highton D. A. Roach
J . D. Borst P. J . Hoefler L. J. Savio
G. H. Bowers C. C. Honey R. L. Schmid
F. J . Brutt E. J . Huber B. E. Smith
D. J. Cash F. Huber, J r L. R. Smith
E. E. Chartier C. Hurty W. W. Stein
E. Chitwood G. E. Iliff L. R. Stensland
0. R. Compton R. G. Jacobsen R. B. Stetson
F. W. Cook, Sr C. P. Kappeler F. R. Stockum
J . Corkran 0. Keller A. L. Tanton
D. W. Crofts J . J . Kelly R. C. Thomas
M. G. Daniels R. C. Kieren F. W. Thomason
R. C. Degeneff A. D. Kline T. P. Traub
D. H. Douglas T. S. Lauber D. E. Truax
J . D. Douglass H. F. Light R. E. Uptegraff, J r
D. A. Duckett T. G. Lipscomb S. G. Vargo
J . C. Dutton L. W. Long R. A. Veitch
J . K. Easley R. I. Lowe L. B. Wagenaar
E. C. Edwards M. L. Manning J. W. Walton
R. L. Ensian H. B. Margolis R. J. Whearty
C. G. Evans J . W. Matthews S. A. Wiencek
P. P. Falkowski L. S. McCormick A. Wilks
W. R. Farber G. G. McCrae W. E. Wrenn
H. G. Fischer J . W. McGill A. C. Wurdack
J. A. Forster C. J. McMillen D. A. Yannucci
S. L. Foster W. J. McNutt
 When the IEEE Standards Board approved this standard on J u n e 13, 1985, it had the following
membership:

John E. May, Chairman John P. Riganati, Vice Chairman

Sava I. Sherr, Secretary
James H Beall Jay Forster Lawrence V. McCall
Fletcher J Buckley Daniel L. Goldberg Donald T. Michael"
Rene Castenschiold Kenneth D. Hendrix Frank L. Rose
Edward Chelotti Irvin N. Howell Clifford 0. Swanson
Edward J Cohen Jack Kinn J. Richard Weger
Paul G Cummings Joseph L. Koepfinger * W. B. Wilkens
Donald C Fleckenstein Irving Kolodny Charles J. Wylie
R. F. Lawrence

'Member emeritus
 Contents

Part I

Test Code for Liquid-Immersed Distribution,

Power, and Regulating Transformers

SECTION PAGE

1. Scope ... ... . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . ... ... .. . . . ... . . . . . . . . . ... . . . ....................... 11
2. Terminology .. . ... .. ... . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . , . ... ... . . . . . . . . . . . .. .. ... . . . . . . . 11
3. References .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . ........................ 11
4. General. . . ... . . . ... .. ... .. . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . .............................. . . . . . . . . ... . 12
4.1 Types of Tests.... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . , . .
4.2 Test Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ...................
4.3 Purpose.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
, ........... 13
4.4 Test Sequence.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ................ ... . . . . . . . 13
4.5 Instrumentation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
, 13
5. Resistance Measurements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
, ... ... . . . . . . . 13
5.1 Determination of Cold Temperature. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ............. 13
5.2 Conversion of Resistance Measurements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
5.3 Resistance Measurement Methods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . , . . . . . . . . . . . . . . , . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 13
6. Polarity and Phase-Relation Tests. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ..................
6.1 Subtractive and Additive Polarity. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . , . . . . . .
6.2 Polarity Tests: Single-phase Transformers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
6.3 Polarity and Phase-Relation Tests: Polyphase Transformers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
7. Ratio Tests . ... . . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . . . ... . . ... . .. ... . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . ... . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
7.2 Tolerances for Ratio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
7.3 Ratio Test Methods . . . . ... .. . .. . . . ... . . . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . . . ... ... ... . . ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
8. No-Load Losses and Excitation Current .. . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . .., ... ... . . . . . . . . ... ... . . . .. . . . .
, 20
8.1 General . . . . ....................................... .. . . . . . . 20
8.2 Test Metho ingle-Phase Transformers. . . . . . . . . . . . .. . .. ... 20
8.3 Test Methods for Three-phase Transformers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
8.4 Excitation Current (No-Load Current).. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . , 23
9. Impedance and Load Losses.. . . ... . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . ... . . . ... . . . . . . . . ... ..... . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
9.1 General ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
9.2 Impedance and Load Loss Test Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
9.3 Interlacing Impedance Voltage of a Scott-Connected Transformer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
9.4 Calculation of Impedance Voltage and Load Loss from Test Data ..................... 28
9.5 Zero-Phase-Sequence Impedance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
9.6 Impedance Bridges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
10. Dielectric Tests.. .. . . . .. . . . .... . . . ... .. ... ... . . . . . . . . . . . ... ... . . . ... . . ... .. . .. ... . . . . . . . . . .. ... .. . . . .. 32
10.1 General .. . . . ... . . . . . . . . . . . . ... .. ... ... .. . . . . . . . . . ... .. . . . . . . . . . ... .. . ..... . . . . . . . . . .. .. . .. . . . .. 32
10.2 Switching Impulse Test Procedures. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
10.3 Lightning Impulse Test Procedures.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
10.4 Low-Frequency Tests. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
10.5 Applied Voltage Tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
10.6 Induced Voltage Tests For Distribution and Class I Power Transformers . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
10.7 Induced Voltage Test for Class I1 Power Transformers . . . ... ... . . . ... ... . . . ... , . ... . .. . 37
SECTION PAGE

10.8 Partial Discharge Measurement ............................................................ 38

10.9 Insulation Power-Factor Tests .............................................................. 40
10.10 Insulation Resistance Tests ................................................................. 40
11. Temperature Rise .................................................................................... 41
11.1 Ambient Temperature Measurement ...................................................... 41
11.2 Liquid Rise Measurement ................................................................... 42
11.3 Average Winding Temperature-Rise Measurement ...................................... 42
11.4 Other Temperature Measurements ........................................................ 43
11.5 Test Methods ............................................... ............................... 43
11.6 Correction of Temperature Rises for Differences in Altitude ......... .............. 44
12. Short-circuit Tests .. ...................................................................
12.1 Scope ...................................................................................
12.2 Test Connections ...................................................................
12.3 Test Requirements ........................................................................... 46
12.4 Test Procedure ................................................................................ 46
12.5 Proof of Satisfactory Performance ......................................................... 47
13. Audible Sound Tests ................................................................................. 48
13.1 General ........................................................................................ 48
13.2 Instrumentation .............................................................................. 48
13.3 Test Conditions ............................................................................... 48
13.4 Microphone Positions ........................................................................ 50
13.5 Sound-Level Measurements ............................................. ................ 50
13.6 Optional Frequency Analysis Measurements ............................................. 50
14. Calculated Data ...................................................................................... 51
14.1 Reference Temperature ...................................................................... 51
14.2 Losses and Excitation Current .............................................................. 51
14.3 Efficiency ...................................................................................... 51
14.4 Voltage Regulation of a Constant-Voltage Transformer ................................. 51

FIGURES

Fig 1 Connections for the Voltmeter-Ammeter Method of Resistance Measurement ........ 14

Fig 2 Windings: Subtractive Polarity .............................................................. 15
Fig 3 Windings: Additive Polarity .................................................................. 15
Fig 4 Leads and Polarity Marks: Subtractive Polarity ........................................... 15
Fig 5 Leads and Polarity Marks: Additive Polarity .............................................. 15
Fig 6 Polarity by Alternating-Voltage Test ........................................................ 15
Fig 7 Transformer Lead Markings and Voltage-Phasor Diagrams for Three-phase
Transformer Connections ..................................................................... 17
Fig 8 Transformer Lead Markings and Voltage-Phasor Diagrams for Six-Phase
Transformer Connections ..................................................................... 18
Fig 9 Voltmeter Arranged to Read the Difference Between the Two Secondary
Voltages ......................................................................................... 19
Fig 10 Voltmeter Arranged to Read the Two Secondary Voltages ............................... 20
Fig 11 Basic Circuit of Ratio Bridge ................................................................. 20
Fig 12 Connections for No-Load Loss Test of a Single-phase Transformer Without
Instrument Transformers ..................................................................... 21
Fig 13 Connections for No-Load Loss Test of a Single-phase Transformer With
Instrument Transformers ..................................................................... 21
Fig 14 Two-Wattmeter Method ....................................................................... 22
Fig 15 Three-Wattmeter Method With Transformer Neutral Available ........................ 23
FIGURES PAGE

Fig 16 Three-Wattmeter Method Using Artificial Wattmeter Neutral N .........

Fig 17 Form-Factor Plot to Reduce Excitation Current to Sine-Wave Basis (1Js
Fig 18 Single-phase Transformer Connections for Impedance-Loss and Impedance-
Voltage Tests ...................................................................
Fig 19 Connections for Impedance-Loss and Impedance-Voltage Tests of a n
Autotransformer ............................................................................... 26
Fig 20 Three-phase Transformer Connections for Impedance-Loss and Impedance-
Voltage Tests Using Three-Wattmeter Method ............................................ 26
Fig 21 Three-phase Transformer Connections for Impedance-Loss and Impedance-
Voltage Tests Using Two Wattmeter Method .............................................. 27
Fig 22 Equivalent Zero-Phase-Sequence Network for Transformers with One
Externally Available Neutral ................................................................ 29
Fig 23 Equivalent Zero-Phase-Sequence Network for Transformers with Two
Externally Available Neutrals and 0" Phase Shift Between Windings 1 and 2 ........ 29
Fig 24 Equivalent Zero-Phase-Sequence Network for Transformers with Two
Externally Available Neutrals and 0" Phase Shift if Z l p ~and ~ Z P NApproach
~
Infinity .......................................................................................... 30
Fig 25 General Impedance Bridge Network ........................................................ 30
Fig 26 Potentiometer-Type Network Using a Phase Shifter ...................................... 31
Fig 27 Potentiometer-Type Network Using a Mutual Inductor .................................. 31
Fig 28 Example of Loading Back Method: Single-phase .......................................... 44
Fig 29 Example of Loading Back Method: Three-phase ........................................... 44
Fig 30 Determination of Microphone Locations for Measurement of Audible Sound for
Liquid-Immersed Transformers .............................................................. 49

TABLES

Table 1 Measurements To Be Made in Insulation Power Factor Tests ........................... 39

Table 2 Winding Temperature Correction Factor ................................................... 39

APPENDIX

Appendix to Part 1 Minimum Information to be Included in Certified Test Data ............ 53

Part I1

Guide for Short-circuit Testing of

Distribution and Power Transformers

SECTION PAGE

1. Scope .................................................................................................. 57
2. Short-circuit Testing Techniques .................................................................. 57
2.1 Fault Application ............................................................................. 57
2.2 Test Connections ............................................................................. 58
2.3 Duration of Test .............................................................................. 58
2.4 Number of Tests .............................................................................. 58
2.5 Calibration Tests ............................................................................. 58
2.6 Voltage and Current Measurements ....................................................... 60
3. Failure Detection Techniques ...................................................................... 63
3.1 Voltage and Current Waveshapes .......................................................... 63
3.2 Leakage Impedance .......................................................................... 64
SECTION PAGE

3.3 Excitation Current ........................................................................... 64

3.4 Low-Voltage Impulse (LVI) Testing ........................................................ 64
3.5 Visual Inspection ............................................................................. 68
3.6 Dielectric Tests ............................................................................... 70
4. Analysis of Test Results ............................................................................ 70
4.1 Terminal Measurements .................................................................... 70
4.2 Visual Inspection ............................................................................. 71
4.3 Dielectric Tests ............................................................................... 79
5. Bibliography .......................................................................................... 79

FIGURES

Fig 1 Typical Test Connections for Three-phase Test ............................................ 59

Fig 2 Typical Simulated Three-phase Fault with Single-phase Supply ........................ 61
Fig 3 Typical Connections of Potential Transformers, Current Transformers and
Current Shunts to Oscillographic Recording Devices...................................... 62
Fig 4 Oscillograph Record of Fault Current Distortion .......................................... 63
Fig 5 Differential Test Circuits ..................................................................... 64
Fig 6 Single-phase Transformer Test Circuits .................................................... 64
Fig 7 Effect of Varying Rise Time on Output Waveforms ....................................... 65
Fig 8 Effect of Varying Pulse Width ............................................................... 65
Fig 9 Calibration Connection for Y Windings ..................................................... 66
Fig 10 Test Connections for Y Windings ............................................................ 67
Fig 11 Test Connections for h Windings ............................................................ 68
Fig 12 Triax to Coax Connection Block ............................... ...... ............. 69
Fig 13 Bushing Coaxial Ground Cage ............................................................... 69
Fig 14 Low-Voltage Impulse Changes ............................................................... 72
Fig 15 Low-Voltage Impulse Changes ............................................................... 73
Fig 16 Low-Voltage Impulse Changes ............................................................... 74
Fig 17 Low-Voltage Impulse Changes ............................................................... 76
Fig 18 Low-Voltage Impulse Changes ............................................................... 77
Fig 19 Low-Voltage Impulse Changes ............................................................... 78

APPENDIX

Appendix to Part I1 Essential Information for Inclusion in Transformer

Short-circuit Test Reports .................................................... 80
 Part I
A n A merican National Standard
IEEE Standard Test Code for Liquid-Immersed
Distribution, Power, and Regulating Transformers
1. Scope
1.1 This standard describes methods for per-
forming tests specified in ANSI / IEEE
C57.12.00-1987 [17]' and other standards appli-
cable to liquid-immersed distribution, power,
and regulating transformers, and is intended for
use as a basis for performance, safety, and the
proper testing of such transformers.
1.2 This standard applies to all liquid-immersed
transformers except instrument transformers,
step-voltage and induction voltage regulators,
arc furnace transformers, rectifier trans-
formers, specialty transformers, grounding
transformers, and mine transformers.
1.3 When this standard is used on a mandatory
basis, the words shall and must indicate man-
datory requirements; and the words should or
may refer to matters that are recommended or
permissive, but not mandatory.
NOTE: The Foreword of this voluntary consensus standard
describes the circumstances in which the standard may be
used on a mandatory basis.
2. Terminology
Standard transformer terminology available
in ANSI / IEEE C57.12.80-1978(R 1986)[18] shall
apply. Other electrical terms are defined in
ANSI / IEEE Std 100-1984 [25].
The numbers in brackets correspond to the references
listed in Section 3 of this standard.
11
3. References
This standard shall be used in conjunction
with the following publications:
[l] ANSI C57.12.10-1977, Requirements for
Transformers, 230 000 Volts and Below, 833 /
958 through 8333/ 10 417 kVA, Single-phase,
and 750 / 862 through 60 000 / 80 000 / 100 000
kVA,
[2] ANSI C57.12.10a-1978,(supplement to ANSI
C57.12.10-1977).
[3] ANSI C57.12.20-1981, Requirements for
Overhead Type Distribution Transformers,
67 000 Volts and Below; 500 kVA and Smaller.
[4] ANSI C57.12.21-1980,Requirements for Pad-
Mounted, Compartmental-Type, Self-Cooled,
Single-phase Distribution Transformers with
High-Voltage Bushings; High-Voltage, 34 500
GrdY / 19 920 Volts and Below; Low-Voltage
240/ 120 Volts; 168 kVA and Smaller.
[5] ANSI C57.12.22-1980,Requirements for Pad-
Mounted, Compartmental-Type, Self-Cooled,
Three-phase Distribution Transformers with
High-Voltage Bushings; High-Voltage, 34 500
GrdY / 19 920 Volts and Below; 2500 kVA and
Smaller.
[6] ANSI C57.12.23-1985,Requirements for Un-
derground-Type Single-phase Distribution
Transformers, with Separable Insulated High-
Voltage Connectors, High-Voltage 24 940 GrdY /
14 400 Volts and Below, Low-Voltage 240 / 120;
100 kVA and Smaller.
ANSI publications are available from the Sales Depart-
ment, American National Standards Institute, 1430 Broad-
way, New York, NY 10018.
ANSI / IEEE
C57.12.90-1987
[7] ANSI (257.12.24-1982, Requirements for Un-
derground-Type Three-phase Distribution
Transformers, 2500 kVA and Smaller, High-
Voltage 24 940 GrdY / 14 400 Volts and Below,
Low Voltage 480 Volts and Below.
[8] ANSI C57.12.25-1981,Requirements for Pad-
Mounted Compartmental-Type Single-phase
Distribution Transformers with Separable In-
sulated High-Voltage Connectors; High-Voltage
24 940 GrdY / 14 400 Volts and Below; Low-Volt-
age 240 / 120; 167 kVA and Smaller.
[9] ANSI (37.12.26-1986, Requirements for Pad-
Mount,ed Compartmental-Type Self-Cooled
Three-phase Distribution Transformers for Use
with Separable Insulated High-Voltage Connec-
tors, High-Voltage 24 940 GrdY / 14 / 400 Volts
and Below; 2500 kVA and Smaller.
[lo] ANSI C57.12.30-1977, Requirements for
Load-Tap-Changing Transformers, 230 000
Volts and Below, 3750 / 4687 through 60 000 /
80 000 / 100 000 kVA, Three-phase.
[ l l ] ANSI C57.12.40-1982, Requirements for
Secondary Network Transformers, Subway and
Vault Types, (liquid-immersed).
[ 121 ANSI (357.12.70-1978, Terminal Markings
and Connections for Distribution and Power
Transformers.
[13] ANSI C63.2-1980,American National Stan-
dard Specifications for Electromagnetic Noise
and Field Strength Instrumentation, 10 kHz to
1 GHz.
[14] ANSI (384.1-1982, Voltage Ratings for Elec-
tric Power Systems and Equipment.
[15] ANSI S1.4-1983, Specification for Sound
Level Meters.
[16] ANSI S1.ll-1986, Specifications for Octave,
Half-Octave, and Third-Octave Band Filter Sets.
[17] ANSI / IEEE C57.12.00-1987, IEEE Stan-
dard General Requirements for Liquid-Im-
mersed Distribution, Power and Regulating
transformer^.^
[18] ANSIIIEEE C57.12.80-1978(R 1986), IEEE
Standard Terminology for Power and Distribu-
tion Transformers.
ANSI/IEEE publications are available from IEEE Ser-
vice Center, 445 Hoes Lane, PO Box 1331, Piscataway, N J
08855-1331, or from the Sales Department, American Na-
tional Standards Institute, 1430 Broadway, New York, NY
10018.
12
IEEE STANDARD TEST CODE FOR LIQUID-IMMERSED
[19] ANSI / IEEE C57.92-1981, IEEE Guide for
Loading Mineral-Oil-Immersed Power Trans-
formers Up to and Including 100 MVA with 55 "C
or 65 "C Average Winding Rise.
[20] ANSI / IEEE C57.98-1986 IEEE Guide for
Transformer Impulse Tests.
[all ANSI / IEEE C57.106-1977, IEEE Guide for
Acceptance and Maintenance of Insulating Oil
in Equipment.
[22] ANSIIIEEE Std 4-1978, IEEE Standard
Techniques for High-Voltage Testing.
[23] ANSI / IEEE Std 21-1976, IEEE Standard
General Requirements and Test Procedure for
Outdoor Apparatus Bushings.
[24] ANSI / IEEE Std 24-1984, IEEE Standard
Performance Characteristics and Dimensions
for Outdoor Apparatus Bushings.
[25] ANSI / IEEE Std 100-1984, IEEE Standard
Dictionary of Electrical and Electronics Terms.
[26] ANSI/IEEE Std 454-1973 (R 1979), IEEE
Recommended Practice for the Detection and
Measurement of Partial Discharges (Corona)
During Dielectric Tests.
[27] ASTM D117-87, Methods of Testing Elec-
trical Insulating
[28] ASTM D877-87, Method of Test for Dielec-
tric Breakdown Voltage of Insulating Liquids
Using Disk Electrodes.
[29] ASTM D1816-84a, Method of Test for Di-
electric Breakdown Voltage of Insulating Oils of
Petroleum Origin Using VDE Electrodes.
[30] HEMMERS, R. T. and GRAHAM, D. C.
Measurement of Self-CooledTransformer Sound
Levels in Relatively High Ambients. IEEE
Transactions on Power Apparatus and Systems,
vol PAS-89, no 7, Sept/Oct, 1970, pp 1657-1662.
4. General
4.1 Types of Tests. Various types of tests (Rou-
tine, Design, Other, and Conformance tests) are
defined in ANSI / IEEE C57.12.80-1978 (R 1986)
[181.
ASTM publications are available from the Sales Office,
American Society for Testing Materials, 1916 Race Street,
Philadelphia, PA 19103.

DISTRIBUTION, POWER, AND REGULATING TRANSFORMERS
4.2 Test Requirements. A general summary of
test requirements is included in ANSI / IEEE
C57.12.00-1987 [17], Table 16, which indicates by
size which tests are normally considered Rou-
tine, Design, or Other.
4.3 Purpose. The purpose of this standard is to
provide test procedure information. Trans-
former requirements and specific test criteria
are not a part of this standard but are contained
in appropriate ANSI Standards, such as ANSI/
IEEE C57.12.00-1987 [17], ANSI C57.12.10-1977
[l],ANSI (37.12.20-1981 [3], ANSI C57.12.40-
1982 [ll], or in user specifications.
4.4 Test Sequence. See 10.1.5.1for sequence of
dielectric tests when lightning impulse or
switching impulse tests are specified.
NOTE: To minimize potential damage to the transformer
during testing, t h e resistance, polarity, phase relation, ratio,
no-load loss and excitation current, impedance, and load loss
tests (and temperature-rise tests, when applicable) should
precede dielectric tests. Using this sequence, the beginning
tests involve voltages and currents, which a r e usually re-
duced as compared to rated values, thus tending to minimize
damaging effects to the transformer.
4.5 Instrumentation. Although the figures of
this standard show conventional meters, ade-
quate digital readout measuring devices and dig-
ital sampling techniques with computer
calculations are considered as satisfactory al-
ternatives.
5. Resistance Measurements
Resistance measurements are of fundamental
importance for the following purposes:
(1) Calculation of the 12R component of con-
ductor losses
(2) Calculation of winding temperatures at
the end of a temperature test
(3) As a base for assessing possible damage in
the field
5.1 Determination of Cold Temperature. The
cold temperature of the winding shall be deter-
mined as accurately as possible when measuring
the cold resistance. The following precautions
shall be observed.
5.1.1 General. Cold resistance measurements
shall not be made on a transformer when it is
13
ANSI / IEEE
(257.12.90-1987
located in drafts or when it is located in a room
in which the temperature is fluctuating rapidly.
5.1.2 Transformer Windings Immersed in
Insulating Liquid. The temperature of the
windings shall be assumed to be the same as the
temperature of the insulating liquid, provided:
(1) The windings have been under insulating
liquid with no excitation and with no current in
the windings from 3 h to 8 h (depending upon
the size of the transformer) before the cold re-
sistance is measured.
(2) The temperature of the insulating liquid
has stabilized, and the difference between top
and bottom temperature does not exceed 5 "C.
5.1.3 Transformer Windings Out of Insu-
lating Liquid. The temperature of the windings
shall be recorded as the average of several ther-
mometers or thermocouples inserted between
the coils, with care used to see that their mea-
suring points are as nearly as possible in actual
contact with the winding conductors. It should
not be assumed that the windings are at the
same temperature as the surrounding air.
5.2 Conversion of Resistance Measure-
ments. Cold winding resistance measurements
are normally converted to a standard reference
temperature equal to the rated average winding
temperature rise plus 20 "C. In addition, it may
be necessary to convert the resistance measure-
ments to the temperature at which the imped-
ance loss measurements were made. The
conversions are accomplished by the following
formula:
where
R, = resistance a t desired temperature T,
R , = measured resistance
T, = desired reference temperature
T, = temperature at which resistance was
measured
Tk =234.5 (Copper)
= 225 (aluminum)
NOTE: The value of Tk may be as high as 230 for alloyed
aluminum.
5.3 Resistance Measurement Methods
5.3.1 Bridge Method. Bridge methods or
high accuracy digital instrumentation are gen-
erally preferred because of their accuracy and
convenience, since they may be employed for the
measurement of resistances up to 10 000 R. They
ANSI / IEEE
C57.12.90-1987
should be used in cases where the rated current
of the transformer winding to be measured is
less than 1A.
NOTE: For resistance values of 1 R or more a Wheatstone
Bridge (or equivalent) is commonly used; for values less than
1 R a Kelvin Bridge (or equivalent) is commonly used. Some
modern resistance bridges have capability in both ranges.
5.3.2 Voltmeter-Ammeter Method. The
voltmeter-ammeter method is sometimes more
convenient than the bridge method. It should be
employed only if the rated current of the trans-
former winding is 1A or more. Digital voltme-
ters and digital ammeters of appropriate
accuracy are commonly used in connection with
temperature-rise determinations.
5.3.2.1 Measurement is made with direct
current, and simultaneous readings of current
and voltage are taken using the connections of
Fig 1.The required resistance is calculated from
the readings in accordance with Ohms law. A
battery or filtered rectifier will generally be
found to be more satisfactory as a dc source than
will a commutating machine. The latter may
cause the voltmeter pointer to vibrate because
of voltage ripple.
5.3.2.2 To minimize errors of observation:
(1) The measuring instruments shall have
such ranges as will give reasonably large de-
flection.
(2) The polarity of the core magnetization
shall be kept constant during all resistance read-
ings.
NOTE: A reversal in magnetization of the core can change
the time constant and result in erroneous readings.
5.3.2.3 The voltmeter leads shall be inde-
pendent of the current leads and shall be con-
nected as closely as possible to the terminals of
the winding to be measured. This is to avoid
including in the reading the resistances of cur-
Fig l
Connections for the Voltmeter-Ammeter
Method of Resistance Measurement
14
IEEE STANDARD TEST CODE FOR LIQUID-IMMERSED
rent-carrying leads and their contacts and of
extra lengths of leads.
To protect the voltmeter from injury by off-
scale deflections, the voltmeter should be dis-
connected from the circuit before switching the
current on or off. To protect test personnel from
inductive kick, the current should be switched
off by a suitably insulated switch.
If the drop of voltage is less than 1V, a po-
tentiometer or millivoltmeter shall be used.
5.3.2.4 Readings shall not be taken until
after the current and voltage have reached
steady-state values.
When measuring the cold resistance, pre-
paratory to making a heat run, note the time
required for the readings to become constant.
The period thereby determined should be al-
lowed to elapse before taking the first reading
when final winding hot resistance measure-
ments are being made.
In general, the winding will exhibit a long dc
time constant. To reduce the time required for
the current to reach its steady-state value, a
noninductive external resistor should be added
in series with the dc source. The resistance
should be large compared to the inductance of
the winding. It will then be necessary to increase
the source voltage to compensate for the voltage
drop in the series resistor. The time will also be
reduced by operating all other transformer
windings open circuited during these tests.
5.3.2.5 Readings shall be taken with not less
than four values of current when deflecting in-
struments are used. The average of the resist-
ances calculated from these measurements shall
be considered to be the resistance of the circuit.
The current used shall not exceed 15% of the
rated current of the winding whose resistance
is to be measured. Larger values may cause in-
accuracy by heating the winding and thereby
changing its temperature and resistance.
When the current is too low to be read on a
deflecting ammeter, a shunt and digital milli-
voltmeter or potentiometer shall be used.
6. Polarity and Phase-Relation Tests
Polarity and phase-relation tests are of inter-
est primarily because of their bearing on par-
alleling or banking two or more transformers.
Phase-relation tests are made to determine an-
gular displacement and relative phase sequence.
 ANSI / IEEE
DISTRIBUTION, POWER, AND REGULATING TRANSFORMERS C57.12.90-1987

Fig 2
Windings:
Subtractive Polarity
Fig 3
Windings:
Additive Polarity
:1 XI -
Fig 4
x2

Leads and Polarity

Marks: Subtractive
Polarity
Fig 5
Leads and Polarity
Marks: Additive
Polarity

6.1 Subtractive and Additive Polarity. Wind-
ings arranged for subtractive polarity and ad-
ditive polarity are shown in Figs 2 and 3.
Leads and polarity marks arranged for sub-
tractive polarity and additive polarity are shown
in Figs 4 and 5 .
6.2 Polarity Tests: Single-phase Trans-
formers. Polarity tests on single-phase trans-
formers shall be made in accordance with one
of the following methods:
(1) Inductive kick
(2) Alternating voltage
( 3 ) Comparison
(4) Ratio bridge
6.2.1 Polarity by Inductive Kick. The po-
larity of transformers with leads arranged as
shown in Figs 2, 3, 4, and 5 may be determined
at the time of making the resistance measure-
ments as follows:
(1) With direct current passing through the
high-voltage winding, connect a high-voltage di-
rect-current voltmeter across the high-voltage
winding terminals so as to obtain a small de-
flection of the pointer.
(2) Transfer the two voltmeter leads directly
across the transformer to the adjacent low-volt-
age leads, respectively.
NOTE: For example, in Fig 5, the voltmeter lead connected
to HI will be transferred to X2 as the adjacent lead, and
that connected to Hz to X I .
(3) Break direct-current excitation, thereby
inducing a voltage in the low-voltage winding
(inductive kick), which will cause a deflection in
the voltmeter, which is interpreted in (4)and (5)
below.
(4) When the pointer swings in the opposite
direction (negative), the polarity is subtractive.
( 5 ) When the pointer swings in the same di-
rection as before (positive), the polarity is ad-
ditive.
6.2.2 Polarity by Alternating-Voltage
Test. For transformers having a ratio of trans-
formation of 30 to 1 or less, the HI lead shall be
connected to the adjacent low-voltage lead (XI
in Fig 6).
Any convenient value of alternating voltage
shall be applied to the full high-voltage winding
Fig 6
Polarity by A1ternating-Voltage Test

15
ANSI / IEEE
C57.12.90-1987
and readings taken of the applied voltage and
t h e voltage between t h e right-hand adjacent
high-voltage and low-voltage leads.
When the latter reading is greater than the
former, the polarity is additive.
When the latter voltage reading is less than
the former (indicating the approximate differ-
ence in voltage between that of the high-voltage
and low-voltage windings), the polarity is sub-
tractive.
6.2.3 Polarity by Comparison. When a
transformer of known polarity and of the same
ratio as the unit under test is available, the po-
larity can be checked by comparison, as follows,
similar to the comparison method used for the
ratio test (see Figs 9 and 10).
(1) Connect the high-voltage windings of both
transformers in parallel by connecting similarly
marked leads together.
(2) Connect also the low-voltage leads Xz, of
both transformers together, leaving the XI leads
free.
(3) With these connections apply a reduced
value of voltage to the high-voltage windings and
measure the voltage between the two free leads.
A zero or negligible reading of the voltmeter
will indicate that the relative polarities of both
transformers are identical.
An alternative method of checking the polar-
ity is to substitute a low-rated fuse or suitable
lamps for the voltmeter. This procedure is rec-
ommended as a precautionary measure before
connecting the voltmeter.
6.2.4 Polarity by Ratio Bridge. The ratio
bridge described in Section 7 can also be used
to test polarity.
6.3 Polarity and Phase-Relation Tests: Poly-
phase Transformers
6.3.1 Polarity of Polyphase Transformers.
Each phase of a polyphase transformer shall
have the same relative polarity when tested in
accordance with one of the methods described
for single-phase transformers.
6.3.2 Phase-Relation Tests
6.3.2.1 Test for Phasor Diagram for
Transformers with a Ratio of Transforma-
tion of 30 to 1 or Less. The phasor diagram of
any three-phase transformer that defines the
angular displacement and phase sequence can
be verified by connecting the H1 and X1 leads
together, to excite the unit a t a suitably low
three-phase voltage, taking voltage measure-
ments between the various pairs of leads and
16
IEEE STANDARD TEST CODE FOR LIQUID-IMMERSED
then either plotting these values or comparing
them for their relative order of magnitude with
the help of the corresponding diagram in Fig 7
or Fig 8. Typical check measurements are to be
taken and their relative magnitudes are also
indicated.
6.3.2.2 Zigzag Windings. Equal zig and
zag windings usually are necessary for zigzag
transformers, although unequal windings may
be used for special applications.
No required test is proposed to determine the
phase relationships between the line end and
neutral end sections of a zigzag winding. How-
ever, it is recommended that a test connection
be made to the junction of the two winding sec-
tions and tests be made during manufacture to
prove the desired phase relationships. For the
purpose of designation in Fig 7, zigzag windings
are arbitrarily defined as windings whose line
end section is rotated 60" counterclockwise with
respect to the neutral end section.
6.3.2.3 Six-Phase Windings. Six-phase
windings with no neutral connection shall be
temporarily connected in delta (A) or wye (Y) for
the test for phasor diagram.
6.3.2.4 Test of Phase-Relation with Ratio
Bridge. The ratio bridge described in Section 7
can also be used to test phase relationships.
6.3.3 Phase-Sequence Test. The phase-se-
quence indicator may incorporate either a three-
phase induction motor or a split-phase circuit.
It should be connected first to the higher volt-
age leads, the transformer excited three-phase
at a low voltage suitable for the indicator, and
the direction of rotation or the indication of the
instrument noted.
The indicator is then transferred to the low-
voltage side of the transformer by connecting to
XI the lead that was connected to HI, connecting
to X2 the lead that was connected to HB, and
connecting to X3 the lead that was connected to
H3.
The transformer is again excited a t a suitable
voltage (without changing the excitation con-
nections) and the indication again noted.
The phase sequence of the transformer is cor-
rect when the indication is the same in both
cases.
Six-phase secondaries with no neutral con-
nection also have to be connected temporarily
in A or Y for this test. When a six-phase neutral
is available, the phase-sequence indicator leads
should be transferred from HI to XI, from H2 to
X3, from H3 to X g , respectively, and the direction
 ANSI / IEEE
DISTRIBUTION, POWER, AND REGULATING TRANSFORMERS c57.12.90-1987

ANGULAR DIAGRAM FOR CHECK CHECK MEASUREMENTS

DISPLACEMENT MEASUREMENT
H2 x2

OELTA - DELTA CONNECTION

H2
H2 x2

Y - Y CONNECTION
AH3
HIXI

D E L T A - 2 2 CONNECTION
H2 x2

2 2 -DELTA CONNECTION

DELTA- Y CONNECTION
6&
YXI

H2

Y - DELTA CONNECTION
THREE-PHASE TRAN! 3RMERS WITH TAPS
x2

Fig 7
Transformer Lead Markings and Voltage-Phasor Diagrams for
Three-phase Transformer Connections

17
ANSI / IEEE
C57.12.90-1987 IEEE STANDARD TEST CODE FOR LIQUID-IMMERSED

ANGULAR DIAGRAM FOR CHECK CHECK MEASUREMENTS

DISPLACEMENT MEASUREMENT
H?

HI H3 x6

GROUP 1 DELTA- DOUBLE DELTA x6

A ;*;
ANGULAR
)ISPLACEMENT
0 DEGREES

Y -DIAM

H, H3 xb x5
GROUP 2 DELTA DlAM
ANGULAR
)ISPLACEMEN1
30 DEGREES

x6 x5

Y -DOUBLE DELTA

S I X - PHASE TRANSFORMERS WITH TAPS

Fig 8
Transformer Lead Markings and Voltage-Phasor Diagrams for
Six-Phase Transformer Connections

of rotation noted. The test should then be re- 7. Ratio Tests

peated by transferring from HI to X2, from H2
to Xq, and from H3 to Xg, respectively, and noting
the indication, which should be the same as be-
fore.
6.3.3.1 The preceding method (phase-se-
quence test) does not disclose the angular dis-
placement of the transformer.
6.3.3.2 Test of Phase-Sequence with Ra-
tio Bridge. The ratio bridge described in Sec-
tion 7 can also be used to test phase-sequence.
7.1 General. The turn ratio of a transformer is
the ratio of the number of turns in the high-
voltage winding to that in the low-voltagewind-
ing.
7.1.1 When a transformer has taps for chang-
ing its voltage ratio, the turn ratio is based on
the number of turns corresponding to the nor-
mal rated voltage of the respective windings to

18

DISTRIBUTION, POWER, AND REGULATING TRANSFORMERS
which operating and performance characteris-
tics are referred.
When the transformer has taps, the turn ratio
shall be determined for all taps and for the full
winding.
7.1.2 The ratio test shall be made at rated or
lower voltage and rated or higher frequency.
7.1.3 In the case of three-phase transformers
when each phase is independent and accessible,
single-phase power should preferably be used,
although, when convenient, three-phase power
may be used.
7.1.4 Transformers that have Y diametric con-
nections but do not have the neutral of the Y
brought out shall be tested for ratio with three-
phase power. Any inequality in the magnetizing
characteristics of the three phases will then re-
sult in a shift of the neutral and thereby cause
unequal diametric voltages. When such ine-
quality is found, the diametric connection should
be changed either to h or Y connection and the
line voltages measured. When these are found
to be equal to each other and of proper value
(1.73 times the diametric voltages when con-
nected in y),the ratio is correct.
7.2 Tolerances for Ratio. See ANSI/IEEE
C57.12.00-1987 [17], Section 9.
7.3 Ratio Test Methods
7.3.1 Voltmeter Method. Two voltmeters
shall be used (with voltage transformers when
necessary), one to read the voltage of the high-
voltage winding, the other that of the low-volt-
age winding.
The two voltmeters shall be read simulta-
neously.
A second set of readings shall be taken with
the instruments interchanged, and the average
of the two sets of readings taken to compensate
for instrument errors.
Voltage transformer ratios should be such as
to yield approximately the same readings on the
two voltmeters. Compensation for instrument
errors by a n interchange of instruments will
otherwise not be satisfactory, and it will be nec-
essary to apply appropriate corrections to the
voltmeter readings.
Tests shall be made a t not less than four volt-
ages in approximately 10% steps, and the av-
erage result shall be taken as the true value.
These several values should check within one
percent. The tests shall otherwise be repeated
with other voltmeters.
19
ANSI / IEEE
C57.12.90-1987
When appropriate corrections are applied to
the voltmeter readings, tests may be made a t
only one voltage.
When several transformers of duplicate rating
are to be tested, work may be expedited by ap-
plying the foregoing tests to only one unit, and
then comparing the other units with this one as
a standard, in accordance with comparison
transformer method discussed in 7.3.2.
7.3.2 Comparison Method. A convenient
method of measuring the ratio of a transformer
is by comparison with a transformer of known
ratio.
The transformer to be tested is excited in par-
allel with a transformer of the same nominal
ratio, and the two secondaries connected in par-
allel but with a voltmeter or detector in the
connection between two terminals of similar po-
larity (see Fig 9). This is the more accurate
method because the voltmeter or detector indi-
cates the difference in voltage.
For a n alternate method the transformer to
be tested is excited in parallel with a trans-
former of known ratio, and the voltmeters are
arranged to measure the two secondary voltages
(see Fig 10).
The voltmeters shall be interchanged and the
test repeated. The averages of the results are
the correct voltages.
Fig 9
Voltmeter Arranged to Read the
Difference Between the
Two Secondary Voltages
T R ANS FORMER
---
-- -0
( TRANSFORMER
W I T H K N O W N RATIO
ANSI / IEEE
C57.12.90-1987
u -
.L-----J.
SOURCE
H2 ; - --
- 1 -x 2
i.A *
NOTE: Readings are repeated after interchanging
voltmeters
Fig 10
Voltmeters Arranged to Read
the Two Secondary Voltages
7.3.3 Ratio Bridge. A bridge using the basic
circuit of Fig 11 may be used to measure ratio.
When detector DET is in balance, the trans-
former ratio is equal to R/R1.
NOTES: (1)Measurement of ratio using circuits of this type
has in the past also been described as ratio by resistance
potentiometer.
(2) More accurate results can be obtained using a ratio
bridge that provides phase-angle correction.
(3) The ratio bridge can also be used to test polarity, phase
relation, and phase sequence.
8. No-Load Losses and Excitation
Current
8.1 General. No-load losses (excitation losses)
are the losses of a transformer excited at rated
voltage and frequency but not supplying load.
No-load losses include core loss, dielectric loss,
and loss in the windings due to exciting current.
The no-load loss of a transformer consists prin-
cipally of the iron loss in the transformer core
and is a function of the magnitude, frequency,
and waveshape of the impressed voltage.
The no-load loss and current are particularly
sensitive to differences in waveshape; therefore,
no-load loss measurements will vary markedly
with the waveshape of the test voltage.
Peaked voltage waves (form factor greater
than 1.111, resulting generally from the dis-
20
IEEE STANDARD TEST CODE FOR LIQUID-IMMERSED
TRANSFORMER
_ _ - <UNDER TEST
SOURCE
Fig 11
Basic Circuit of Ratio Bridge
torted character of the excitation-current load
of the transformer on the test generator, give
smaller no-load losses than a sine-wave voltage.
Flat-topped waves, rarely encountered in such
tests, give larger no-load losses than a sine-wave
voltage.
Ordinary variations of temperature do not in-
fluence no-load losses materially and no correc-
tion for temperature variation is made.
The no-load loss determination shall be based
on a sine-wave voltage, unless a different wave
form is inherent in the operation of the trans-
former.
8.2 Test Methods for Single-phase Trans-
formers. One of the following three methods
shall be used for correcting the measured no-
load losses to a sine-wave basis for single-phase
transformers.
The average-voltage voltmeter method is the
most accurate method and is recommended. The
hysteresis loss portion of the no-load loss is a
function of the maximum flux density in the
core, independent of the waveshape of the flux.
The maximum flux density corresponds to the
average value of the voltage (not to the rms
value), and, therefore, when the average value
of the test voltage is adjusted to be the same as
the average value of the desired sine wave of
voltage and the proper frequency held, the hys-
teresis loss will be the desired sine-wave value.
NOTE: When the flux wave has more than one maximum
and one minimum value per cycle, average voltmeter read-
ings will not be correct, but the voltage wave is then not
suitable for use.
The average-voltagevoltmeter method utilizes
an average-voltage indicating voltmeter consist-

DISTRIBUTION, POWER, AND REGULATING TRANSFORMERS
NOTE: F = frequency meter; AV
voltmeter.
Fig 12
Connections for No-Load
Loss Test of a Single-phase Transformer
Without Instrument Transformers
Y T R A N SFORM ER
Fig 13
Connections for No-Load
Loss Test of a Single-phase Transformer
With Instrument Transformers
ing of a dArsonva1 voltmeter having in series
with itself a full-wave rectifier. These instru-
ments are generally graduated to give the same
numerical indication as an rms voltmeter on
sine-wave voltage; that is, they are marked in
equivalent sine-wave rms values.
NOTE: The temperature error of an average-reading volt-
meter utilizing a rectifier (especially instruments for less
than 75 V) is likely to be greater than that of rms voltmeters;
therefore, the temperature characteristic of such an instru-
ment should be ascertained for dependable results and a
suitable correction applied.
Figure 12 shows the necessary equipment and
connections when no instrument transformers
are needed and Fig 13 when instrument trans-
formers are needed, which is the general case.
As indicated in Fig 12, the voltmeters should be
connected nearest to the load, the ammeter
21
ANSI / IEEE
C57.12.90-1987
= average-voltage
u
VOLTAGE
T R A N S FORMER
?I iAV
nearest to the supply, and the wattmeter be-
tween the two with its voltage coil on the load
side of the current coil.
Large transformers are not suitable for use as
instrument transformers, since they introduce
losses as voltage transformers and large ratio
and phase errors as current transformers.
Transformers used for measuring no-load losses
shall be instrument transformers.
When desired, resistance multipliers may be
used in series with the voltage coil of instru-
ments instead of voltage transformers, provided
suitable precautions are taken to make their use
safe. When such multipliers are used they shall
be calibrated with the instruments. Low power-
factor wattmeters shall be used to obtain accu-
rate results.
Either the high- or the low-voltage winding of
ANSI / IEEE
C57.12.90-1987
the transformer under test may be used, but it
is generally more convenient to make this test
using the low-voltage winding. In any case, the
full winding (not merely a portion of the wind-
ing) should be used when possible. When, for
some unusual reason, only a portion of a winding
is excited, this portion shall be not less than 25%
of the winding.
The frequency should be adjusted to the de-
sired value as indicated by the frequency meter,
and the voltage to the desired value as indicated
by the average-voltage voltmeter. Simultaneous
values of frequency, rms voltage, watts, average-
voltage voltmeter readings, and amperes should
be recorded. The transformer under test should
then be disconnected and the losses should be
read on the wattmeter. These losses represent
the losses of the connected instruments (and
voltage transformer if used). They are to be sub-
tracted from the earlier wattmeter reading to
obtain the no-load loss of the transformer under
test.
The correct no-load loss of the transformer
shall be determined from the measured value
by means of the following equation:
where
P = no-load loss (watt) a t voltage Ea cor-
rected to a sine-wave basis
P, = no-load loss measured in test
PI = per unit hysteresis loss, referred to Pm
P2 = per unit eddy-current loss, referred to
f'm
k = (36
where
E, = test voltage measured by rms voltage
Ea = test voltage measured by average-volt-
age voltmeter
The actual percentage values of hysteresis and
eddy-current losses should be used when avail-
able.
NOTE: When actual values are not available, it is suggested
t h a t these two loss components be assumed equal in value,
assigning each a value of 0.5 per unit.
The eddy-current loss in the core varies with
the square of the rms value of the excitation
voltage and is substantially independent of the
voltage wave shape. When the test voltage is
held a t rated voltage with the average-voltage
22
IEEE STANDARD TEST CODE FOR LIQUID-IMMERSED
TOTAL LOSS
PI - p2
Fig 14
Two-Wattmeter Method
voltmeter, the actual rms value of the test volt-
age may not be the rated value, and the eddy-
current loss in the test will be related to the
correct eddy-current loss at rated voltage by Eqs
2 and 3.
8.3 Test Methods for Three-phase Trans-
formers. The methods described for single-
phase transformers also apply to three-phase
transformers with the following additions and
modifications.
8.3.1 Measurements. In measuring the core
loss of three-phase transformers with two watt-
meters (Fig 14) three entirely separate sets of
readings shall be taken by using each of the
three lines in succession as the common line.
The average value of the three sets of readings
shall be recorded as the true no-load loss.
8.3.2 Accuracy Considerations. In using the
two-wattmeter method great care should be ex-
ercised in reading the wattmeters accurately.
Because of the low power factor, the reading of
one wattmeter will be negative and must be sub-
tracted from the other. The two readings may
be of the same general order of magnitude, so
that slight inaccuracies in their values may lead
to large percentage errors in their small differ-
ence. Under such difficult conditions greater ac-
curacy may be obtained by the following
alternative procedure.
Measurements may be made with three watt-
meters; each voltage circuit is connected from
one line to the three-phase neutral, when avail-
able (Fig 15). The three readings are added to
obtain the no-load loss.
8.3.3 Artificial Neutral. When the three-
phase neutral is not available, a n artificial neu-
tral may be derived (Fig 16). When potential
transformers are necessary, a n open A connec-
tion should be used to supply the Y-connected
wattmeters.

DISTRIBUTION, POWER, AND REGULATING TRANSFORMERS
0
cn
Fig 15
Three-WattmeterMethod
With Transformer Neutral Available
8.3.4 No-Load Loss by Impedance Bridge
Method. The impedance bridge method may be
used as a n alternate to the wattmeter method
for the measurement of no-load losses provided
that the applied excitation voltage is sufficiently
close to a sine wave. Each major harmonic
should not exceed 0.5% of the fundamental un-
less acceptable corrections are applied to the
measurement.
The impedance bridge method is advanta-
geous for low power-factor measurements where
special wattmeters and techniques are ordinar-
ily required.
While many configurations of impedance
bridge networks are possible, the choice of a par-
ticular network shall be determined by the mea-
surement problem at hand and the testing
facilities available. See 9.6.
8.4 Excitation Current (No-Load Current).
The excitation current of a transformer is the
current that maintains the magnetic flux exci-
tation in the core of the transformer.
NOTE: The excitation current is usually expressed in per
unit, or in percentage of the rated current of t h e winding
in which it is measured.
8.4.1 Excitation Current Test. Circuit con-
nections for the measurement of excitation cur-
rent shall be the same as those for the
measurement of the excitation loss. The differ-
ent methods of measurement, based on the in-
struments used, shall be as follows:
8.4.2 RMS Voltmeter and Ammeter. Mea-
surements of excitation current are ordinarily
made with rms voltmeters and ammeters. This
method of measurement is reasonably accurate
23
ANSI / IEEE
C57.12.90-1987
TOTAL LOSS
P, + P2 + P3
Fig 16
Three-WattmeterMethod Using Artificial
Wattmeter Neutral N
only when the applied voltage is practically of
sine-wave form.
In cases where the voltage wave shape departs
appreciably from a sine wave as when a trans-
former is large in rating compared with the gen-
erator used for test, the excitation current will
be lower in value than that obtained with a sine
wave of applied voltage. The value so obtained
shall be corrected to a sine-wave basis.
8.4.3 Average-Voltage Voltmeter and
RMS Ammeter. When a n average-voltage volt-
meter and a n rms ammeter are used, the mea-
sured rms value of excitation current will
generally be higher than that obtained with a
sine wave of voltage, when the voltage wave
shape departs appreciably from a sine wave.
When the value obtained by this method is
within the guaranteed limits, no correction is
required.
The measurement of the excitation current
shall, when necessary, be corrected to a sine
wave basis by one of the following methods:
8.4.3.1 Form-FactorMethod. This method
is based on the fact that a substantially straight-
line relation exists between the rms value of the
excitation current and the form factor of the
applied-voltage wave over a wide range of form
factors. This is the most accurate method of mea-
surement when waves of sufficiently different
form factor are available to provide effective ex-
trapolation (see Fig 17).
Excitation current is measured with a n rms
ammeter at two or more applied voltages having
different form factors but held at the same value
with a n average-voltage voltmeter, such as is
used for the reduction of excitation loss to a sine-
wave basis.
Form factors may be varied conveniently by
ANSI / IEEE
C57.12.90-1987
I,, I 2 = exciting currents at form factors F,
F2
Fig 17
Form-Factor Plot to Reduce Excitation
Current to Sine-Wave Basis
changing the excitation of the generator field or
by inserting a n impedance in the test circuit.
Form factors may be determined by taking si-
multaneous voltage readings with rms and av-
erage-voltage voltmeters; their values will be
indicated by the ratio of the rms reading to the
average-voltage voltmeter reading.
The excitation current I, corresponding to
sine-wave voltage shall be determined from the
foregoing data by the following equation:
Is = 12 - (-) I2 - I
1 (F2 - 1.11)
F2 - Fl
where
Il and I2 = rms currents corresponding to the
form factors Fl and Fz, respec-
tively
8.4.3.2 Crest-Ammeter Method. In the
crest-ammeter method, use is made of an aver-
age-voltage voltmeter (the same instrument
used for the reduction of excitation loss to a sine-
wave basis) and a crest ammeter for reading the
instantaneous maximum value of the corre-
sponding current.
Simultaneous readings are taken on these two
instruments at loo%, 86.6%, and 50% voltage.
These data determine approximately the fun-
damental, third, and fifth harmonics of the ex-
citation current.
The excitation current I, corresponding to
sine-wave voltage shall be determined from the
foregoing data by the following equation:
IEEE STANDARD TEST CODE FOR LIQUID-IMMERSED
3 3
where
11, 1 2 , 4 = instantaneous maximum values of
excitation current corresponding
to excitation voltages of loo%,
86.6%, and 50% of rated voltage,
respectively.
This method applies not only to single-phase
transformers but, in a slightly modified form,
, also to those three-phase transformers that are
free from large third-harmonic voltages; that is,
in practice, the transformers having one or more
h windings or those having a three-legged, three-
phase core.
Readings are obtained as indicated in the pre-
ceding paragraphs, but now the line current con-
sists of only the fundamental and the fifth
harmonic components of the required ampere-
turn excitation.
Since only two important components are
present, only two readings a r e necessary: I1 at
100% excitation voltage and 1 2 a t 86.6% voltage.
The excitation current I, corresponding to sine-
wave voltages may be determined by the follow-
ing equation:
IS= 40.25 112 + 0.338 Iz2 (Eq 6)
8.4.4 Average Method. When the voltage
wave shape is not too distorted the following
simplified method may be used. This method is
based on the fact that the value of excitation
current obtained is too low when an rms volt-
meter is used (see 8.4.2) and too high when an
average-voltage voltmeter is used (see 8.4.3).The
procedure is as follows:
(1) Determine the excitation current as in
8.4.2.
(2) Determine the excitation current as in
8.4.3,and read the rms voltage.
(3) When the reading of rms voltage and the
average-voltage voltmeter reading of voltage in
the test made according to 8.4.3do not differ by
more than lo%, the excitation current on a sine-
wave basis shall be taken as the average of the
values obtained by the tests described in 8.4.2
and 8.4.3.
9. Impedance and Load Losses
9.1 General. Load losses are those losses in a
24

DISTRIBUTION, POWER, AND REGULATING TRANSFORMERS
transformer that are incidental to the carrying
of a load.
NOTE: Load losses include Z2R loss in the windings due to
load current, stray loss due to stray fluxes in the windings,
core clamps, magnetic shields, tank walls, etc, and to cir-
culating current, if any, in parallel windings.
9.1.1 Impedance Voltage. The impedance
voltage comprises an effective resistive compo-
nent corresponding to the load losses, and a re-
active component corresponding to the leakage-
flux linkages of the windings. It is not practical
to measure these components separately, but
after the total load loss and total impedance
voltage are measured, the components may be
separated by calculation.
The voltage required to circulate the rated
current under short-circuit conditions when con-
nected on the rated voltage tap is the impedance
voltage, and the watt loss measured is the load
loss.
The impedance voltage generally falls be-
tween 3% and 15% of the rated voltage of the
excited winding, and this fact may be used as a
guide in planning for the voltage supply for the
impedance test.
NOTE: The loud loss is sometimes referred to as the imped-
ance loss.
9.1.2 Impedance Kilovoltampere. Imped-
ance kilovoltampere is the kilovoltampere mea-
sured in the primary, with the secondary short
circuited and with sufficient voltage applied to
the primary to cause rated current to flow in
the windings.
9.2 Impedance and Load Loss Test Proce-
dures
9.2.1 Preparation
(1)The temperature of the windings shall be
taken immediately before and after the imped-
ance measurements in a manner similar to that
described in 5.1. The average shall be taken as
the true temperature. The difference between
the before and after temperatures shall not ex-
ceed 5 "C.
(2) Conductors used for short circuiting low-
voltage high-current transformers should have
a cross section equal to, or greater than, the
corresponding transformer leads. They should
be as short as possible and should be kept away
from magnetic masses. Contacts should be clean
and tight.
NOTE: The accuracy of impedance voltage measurements
is improved by using short circuiting connections with a
25
ANSI / IEEE
C57.12.90-1987
resistance t h a t is low relative to the resistance of the winding
being short circuited.
(3) These precautions are of importance in
avoiding extraneous impedance voltage and
losses that might otherwise be introduced into
the measurements.
9.2.2 Impedance Test of Single-phase
Transformer. One of the two windings of the
transformer (either the high-voltage winding or
the low-voltage winding) is short circuited, and
voltage at rated frequency is applied to the other
winding and adjusted to circulate rated current
in the windings (see Fig 18).
With the current and frequency adjusted to
the rated values as nearly as possible, simulta-
neous readings should be taken on the ammeter,
voltmeter, wattmeter, and frequency meter. The
transformer under test should then be discon-
nected and readings of losses taken on the watt-
meter that represent the losses of the measuring
equipment, similar to the procedure in the no-
load loss test.
It is sufficient to measure and adjust the cur-
rent in the excited winding only, because the
current in the short-circuited winding is the cor-
rect value (except for a negligible excitation cur-
rent error) when the current in the excited
winding is correct. To introduce measuring
equipment in series with the short-circuited
winding to measure its current may introduce
a greater error into the impedance data due to
the losses and voltage drop of that equipment.
9.2.3 Impedance Test of Autotransformer
(1) An autotransformer may be tested for
impedance with its internal connections un-
changed. The test is made by short circuiting its
Fig 18
Single-phase Transformer Connections for
Impedance-Loss and Impedance-Voltage
Tests
NOTE: Instrument transformers to be added when necessary
W
ANSI / IEEE
C57.12.90-1987 IEEE STANDARD TEST CODE FOR LIQUID-IMMERSED

With the foregoing precaution followed, the

W winding will correspond to that between the low-
Fig 19
Connections for Impedance Loss and
Impedance-Voltage Tests of an
Autotransformer
input (or output) terminals and applying voltage
to the other terminals to cause its appropriate
rated line current to flow, with the external con-
nections as shown in Fig 19.
(2) The series and common windings of the
autotransformer may for the impedance test be
treated as separate windings, one short cir-
cuited, the other excited.
When procedure (2) is followed, the current
held must be the rated current of the exciting
winding, which may or may not be the same as
the line current indicated in preceding para-
graphs.
impedance watts and voltamperes will be the
same by either method (1)or (2).
The impedance voltage measured across the
series winding will correspond to that between
the high-voltage terminals of the autotrans-
former, while that measured across the common
voltage terminals of the autotransformer.
9.2.4 Impedance Test of Three-phase
Transformer with Three-phase Voltage. All
three terminals of either the high-voltage wind-
ing or the low-voltage winding are short cir-
cuited together, and balanced three-phase
voltages of rated frequency and suitable mag-
nitude are applied to the terminals of the other
winding to force the rated currents to circulate
(see Figs 20 and 21). The procedure is similar to
that described for single-phase units except that
all connections and measurements are three
phase instead of single phase.
Wattmeter readings may be taken as de-
scribed for the no-load loss test in 8.3.
When the three line currents cannot be bal-
anced, their average rms values should corre-

Fig 20
Three-phase Transformer Connections for Impedance-Loss and
Impedance-Voltage Tests Using Three-Wattmeter Method
A
-
I

B
W

POWER
SOURCE
VOLTS CAN
BE R E A D :
AN, BN. CN
OR
AB. BC, CA I
= '--/
'
I ;
TRANSFORMER
C UNDER TEST
w A ORY
(FOR ANY

26

DISTRIBUTION, POWER, AND REGULATING TRANSFORMERS
A quency is applied to two terminals of the other
NOTE: Instrument transformers to be added when necessary
Fig 21
Three-phase Transformer Connections for
Impedance-Loss and Impedance-Voltage
Tests Using Two-Wattmeter Method
spond to the desired value. A three-wattmeter
connection (preferred) is shown in Fig 20; a two-
wattmeter connection (alternate) is shown in
Fig 21.
9.2.5 Impedance Test of Three-phase
Transformer with Single-phase Voltage. To
test the impedance of a three-phase unit with
single-phase voltage, the winding to which volt-
age is to be applied must be connected in A) and
a corner of the A opened to apply the single-
phase voltage. The other winding must be either
connected in A, in which case no short circuiting
is necessary, or in Y, in which case its terminals
must be short circuited to its neutral. The pro-
cedure is otherwise similar to a single-phase
impedance test.
The voltage obtained in this manner is three
times the impedance voltage of one phase of the
transformer and this fact must be considered in
converting the values into percentage or per-
unit quantities by using the following formula:
Percent measured impedance volts
impedance
volts
=
3.rated voltage of excited
. 100%
windings in A
This method of test does not duplicate the
three-phase impedance condition exactly and
tends to give higher losses by introducing irrel-
evant zero-phase-sequence losses (usually losses
in the tank or enclosure) into the measurement.
This effect is more pronounced for core-type
transformers. Therefore, it is not suitable for the
higher reactance transformers.
An alternative single-phase test is applicable
regardless of whether windings are connected A,
Y, zigzag, or any combination thereof. The neu-
ANSI / IEEE
C57.12.90-1987
tral terminals, if any, are not used and it is not
necessary to open a corner of the A.
The three line leads of one winding are short
circuited and single-phase voltage at rated fre-
winding and adjusted to circulate rated line cur-
rent.
Three successive readings are taken on the
three pairs of leads, for example, H 1 and H2, H2
and H3, H3 and HI. Then
Measured
impedance = 1.5
(p12 + p 2 3 + p31)
watts 3
(Eq 8 )
Measured
impedance = 0.866
(E12 + E 2 3 + E311
volts 3
where
P and E = individual readings of measured
impedance loss and voltage, re-
spectively, as indicated by sub-
scripts
The stray-loss component shall be obtained by
subtracting the 12R losses from the impedance
watts of the transformer. Let R1 be the resist-
ance measured between two high-voltage ter-
minals and Re that between two low-voltage
terminals; let I1 and I2 be the respective rated
line currents. Then, the total 12Rloss of all three
phases will be
Total 12R W = 1.5 ( 1 1 2 R1 + 1 2 2 R2)
This formula applies equally well to Y- or A-
connected windings.
Temperature correction shall be made as
in 5.2.
9.2.6 Impedance Test of a Three-Winding
Transformer. In a three-winding transformer,
which may be either single phase or three phase,
two winding impedance measurements are made
with each pair of windings (which means three
(Eq 7)
different impedance measurements) by follow-
ing the same procedure as for two-winding trans-
formers.
When the kilovoltampere capacities of the dif-
ferent windings are not alike, the current held
for the impedance test should correspond to the
capacity of the lower rated winding of the pair
of windings under test. However, all of these
data when converted into percentage form
should be based on the same output kilovoltam-
pere, preferably that of the primary winding.
The individual equivalent impedance character-
27
ANSI / IEEE
C57.12.90-1987
istics of the separate windings may be deter-
mined with the following expressions:
Z12, 2 2 3 , 2 3 1 = measured impedance values be-
tween pairs of windings, as in-
dicated, all expressed on the
same kilovoltampere base
Equation 10 involves complex numbers, but
may be used for the resistance (in-phase), com-
ponent, or reactance (quadrature) component of
the impedance voltage or of impedance voltam-
peres.
The treatment of the individual impedance
losses for temperature correction, etc, is the
same as for two-winding single-phase trans-
formers.
The total loss of a three-winding transformer
is approximately the sum of the losses in the
three windings as determined for the load con-
ditions of the windings.
9.3 Interlacing Impedance Voltage of a
Scott-Connected Transformer. The interlac-
ing impedance voltage of Scott-connected trans-
formers is the single-phase voltage applied from
the midtap of the main transformer winding to
both ends, connected together. The voltage is
sufficient to circulate in the supply lines a cur-
rent equal to the rated three-phase line current.
The current in each half of the winding is 50%
of this value.
The percentage interlacing impedance is the
measured voltage expressed as a percentage of
the teaser voltage. The percentage resistance is
the measured watts expressed as a percentage
of the rated kilovoltampere of the teaser wind-
ing.
9.4 Calculation of Impedance Voltage and
Load Loss from Test Data. Resistive and re-
active components of the impedance voltage are
determined by the use of the following equa-
tions:
28
IEEE STANDARD TEST CODE FOR LIQUID-IMMERSED
E* = (Eq 12)
where
E, = resistance voltage, in-phase component
E, reactance voltage, quadrature compo-
=
nent
E , = impedance voltage
P, = watts measured in impedance test
I = current in amperes in excited winding
Per unit values of the resistance, reactance,
and impedance voltage are obtained by dividing
E,, E,, and E , by the rated voltage. Percentage
values are obtained by multiplying per unit val-
ues by 100.
The 12R losses of the two windings are cal-
culated from the ohmic resistance measure-
ments (corrected to the temperature at which
the impedance test was made) and the currents
that were used in the impedance measurement.
These 12R losses subtracted from the load loss
watts give the stray losses of the transformer at
the temperature a t which the load loss test was
made.
The 12R component of the load loss increases
with the temperature. The stray-loss component
diminishes with the t'emperature. Therefore,
when it is desired to convert the load losses from
one temperature to another, the two components
of the load loss are converted separately. Thus,
(Eq 14)
where
P, = resistance loss a t temperature T
P, = stray loss at temperature T
P,, calculated resistance loss a t tempera-
=
ture Tm
Psc = calculated stray loss at temperature T,,,
Tk = 234.5 (Copper)
= 225 (aluminum) (see NOTE)
NOTE: 225 applies for pure or EC aluminum. T k may be a s
high as 230 for alloyed aluminum.
9.5 Zero-Phase-SequenceImpedance
9.5.1 Zero-Phase-Sequence Impedance
Tests of Three-phase Transformers.The zero-
phase-sequence impedance characteristics of
three-phase transformers depend upon the wind-
ing connections and, in some cases, upon the core
 ANSI / IEEE
DISTRIBUTION, POWER, AND REGULATING TRANSFORMERS C57.12.90-1987

construction. Zero-phase-sequence impedance n

-
t----+ *----O
tests described in this standard apply only to I

transformers with one or more windings with a

physical neutral brought out for external con-
nection. In all tests, one such winding shall be
excited at rated frequency between the neutral
and the three line terminals connected together.
External connection of other windings shall be
as described in succeeding paragraphs for var-
ious transformer connections. Transformers
with connections other than as described in suc-
ceeding paragraphs shall be tested as deter-
mined by those responsible for design and
application.
The exciting voltage and current shall be es-
tablished as follows:
When no A connection is present on the trans-
former, the applied voltage should not exceed
30% of the rated line-to-neutral voltage of the
winding being energized, nor should the phase
current exceed its rated value. When a A con-
nection is present, the applied voltage should be
such that the rated phase current of any A wind-
ing is not exceeded. The percentage excitation
voltage at which the tests are made shall be
shown on the test report. The time duration of
the test shall be such that the thermal limits of
any of the transformer parts are not exceeded.
Single-phase measurements of exciting volt-
age, total current, and power shall be similar to
those described in 9.2. The zero-phase-sequence
impedance in percentage on kilovoltampere base
of excited winding for the test connection is
I
I----* e- --*3
2
Fig 22
Equivalent Zero-Phase-SequenceNetwork
for Transformers with
One Externally Available Neutral
phase voltage shall be applied between the three
shorted line terminals and neutral. The external
terminals of all windings may be open circuited
or shorted and grounded.
The term interconnected windings shall be in-
terpreted to mean windings in which one or
more electric phases are linked by more than
one magnetic phase.
9.5.3 Transformers with Two Neutrals Ex-
ternally Available, Excluding Transformers
with Interconnected Windings. The zero-
phase-sequence network giving the external
characteristics for transformers of this type is
shown in Fig 23. Windings 1 and 2 have the
externally available neutrals while windings 3,
4, etc do not. The figure is drawn for the case
of 0" phase shift between windings 1 and 2.
Four tests may be made to determine the zero-
phase-sequence equivalent network, one of
which is redundant.

where
E = measured exciting voltage Fig 23
E, = rates phase-to-neutral voltage of excited Equivalent Zero-Phase-SequenceNetwork
winding for Transformers with Two Externally
I = measured total input current flowing in Available Neutrals and 0" Phase Shift
the paralleled three phases Between Windings 1 and 2
I, = rated current per phase of the excited NOTE: Applies also to autotransformers (see 9.2.3).
windings fl
r-4 c----*
9.5.2 Transformers with One Neutral Ex- I

ternally Available, Excluding Transformers

I
k--0
I
*---*
3

with Interconnected Windings. The zero- I

2
phase-sequence network giving the external
characteristics for transformers of this type is
shown in Fig 22. Winding 1 has the available
neutral while windings 2, 3, etc do not.
A zero-phase-sequencetest shall be made on
the winding with the available neutral. A single- NEUTRAL

29
ANSI / IEEE
C57.12.90-1987
ZINs OR Z2N.3
I 2
O 0
NEUTRAL
*
Fig 24
Equivalent Zero-Phase-Sequence Network
for Transformers with Two Externally
Available Neutrals and 0" Phase Shift if
, 2 7 1 ~and
~ , 2 7 2 ~Approach
~ Infinity
Test 1. Apply a single-phase voltage to winding
1 between the shorted line terminals of winding
1 and its neutral. All other windings are open
circuited. The measured zero-pha&sequence
impedance is represented by Z~N,.
Test2.Apply a single-phase voltage to winding
2 between the shorted line terminals of winding
2 and its neutral. All other windings are open
circuited. The measured zero-phase-sequence
impedance is represented by &No.
Test4.Apply a single-phase voltage to winding
2 between the shorted line terminals of winding
2 and its neutral. Short the line terminals and
neutral of winding 1. All other windings may be
open circuited or shorted. The measured zero-
phase-sequence impedance is represented by
Z2Ns.
Test 4 is redundant to Test 3 and need not be
Fig 25
General Impedance Bridge Network
30
IEEE STANDARD TEST CODE FOR LIQUID-IMMERSED
performed. When performed, however, it may
be used as a check.
All measured zero-phase-sequence imped-
ances should be expressed in percentage and
placed on a common megavoltampere base. The
constants in the equivalent circuit are
23 = + JZsN, (&No - ZlN,)
(Eq 16)
NOTE: The plus sign before the radical in Eq 16 is appro-
priate for most in which windings and
are physically adjacent in the design, and no A winding (3,
4, etc)is interleaved with them. A minus sign may be-ap-
propriate when a A winding (3 or 4) is physically located
within or between windings 1 and 2. The correctness of the
sign can be checked by comparison with design calculations
of zero-squence impedance.
When Z ~ N and
, &No approach infinity, then
Z3 approaches infinity, and the equivalent cir-
cuit is that shown in Fig 24.
9.5.4 Autotransformers. The tests and
9.6 Impedance Bridges
9.6.1 Impedance Bridge Method. The
impedance bridge method may be used as a n
alternate to the wattmeter-voltmeter-ammeter
method for the measurement of impedance and
impedance losses. The impedance bridge method
is advantageous for low power-factor measure-
ments where special wattmeters and techniques
are ordinarily required.
TRANSFORMER
UNDER TEST

DISTRIBUTION, POWER, AND REGULATING TRANSFORMERS
9.6.1.1 Impedance Bridge Networks.
While many configurations of impedance bridge
networks are possible, the choice of a particular
network is determined by the measurement
problem at hand and the testing facilities avail-
able. See 9.6.2.
9.6.2 Impedance Bridge Networks for Mea-
surement of Losses. The general form of the
impedance bridge is a n electrical network so ar-
ranged that a voltage proportional to the current
through the transformer under test can be com-
pared with a reference voltage that is a function
of the applied test voltage Et (see Fig 25). The
voltage comparison is made by adjusting one or
more of the bridge arms Z l , Z z , and 23 until the
voltages across 2 2 and 2 3 are exactly equal in
magnitude and phase. Voltage balance is indi-
cated by a null reading of the detector (DET).
90 PHASE
SHIFTER
*
TO POWER
SOURCE
Fig 27
Potentiometer-Type Network
Using a Mutual Inductor
31
ANSI / IEEE
C57.12.90-1987
The impedance characteristics of the trans-
former under test can then be calculated from
t h e values of 2 1 , 22,and Z 3 .
9.6.2.1 Potentiometer-Type Networks. A
convenient form of the impedance bridge for
transformer testing is a double ac potentiome-
ter-type network using a phase shifter (see Fig
26). The two potentiometers A and B are either
connected directly or through a voltage trans-
former (VT) to the terminals of the transformer
under test. The phasor sum of the voltage drops
A and B, which are in quadrature, are then com-
pared with the voltage drop C across the sec-
ondary of the current transformer (CT). The
constants of this network can be arranged so
that the balance position of potentiometer A is
directly proportional to the loss in the trans-
former under test. This network can be con-
UNDER TEST
+ TRANSFORMER
UNDER TEST
ET
ANSI / IEEE
C57.12.90-1987
nected in place of the usual dynamometer-type
wattmeter and is readily adaptable to automatic
testing.
Another configuration of the double poten-
tiometer-type network employs a mutual induc-
tor to obtain a quadrature voltage drop required
for balance (see Fig 27). In this case the phasor
sum of the voltage drops B and C are compared
with the voltage drop A. For operation at a fixed
frequency (normally 60 Hz) the constants of the
circuit can be arranged so that the balance po-
sition of potentiometer B is directly proportional
to the loss in the transformer under test for low
power factors.
The configuration of a direct-reading-type po-
tentiometer network for measuring loss is usu-
ally determined by the parameter, voltage, or
current to be held during test. For no-load loss,
where voltage is the reference parameter, the
in-phase and quadrature voltage drops required
for balance are advantageously derived from the
voltage portion of the test circuit. For impedance
loss, where load current is the reference param-
eter, these voltage drops are advantageously de-
rived from the current portion of the test circuit.
Additional information on these and other
impedance networks of the potentiometer type
is included in references.
9.6.2.2 Three-phase Bridge Measure-
ments. Loss measurements on three-phase
transformers are made by connecting the bridge
network to each phase in turn and calculating
the total loss from the three single-phase mea-
surements. This is analogous to the three-watt-
meter method of measuring losses using a single
wattmeter.
10. Dielectric Tests
10.1 General
10.1.1Factory Dielectric Tests. The purpose
of dielectric tests in the factory is to demonstrate
that the transformer has been designed and con-
structed to withstand the specified insulation
levels.
10.1.2 Test Requirements. Test levels and
other test parameters shall be as outlined in
ANSI/IEEE C57.12.00 1987 [17], or as otherwise
specified.
10.1.3 Measurement of Test Voltages. Un-
less otherwise specified, the dielectric test volt-
ages shall be measured or applied, or both, in
IEEE STANDARD TEST CODE FOR LIQUID-IMMERSED
accordance with ANSI/IEEE Std 4-1978 [22],
with the following exceptions:
(1)A protective resistance may be used in se-
ries with sphere gaps, on either the live or
grounded sphere. Where unnecessary to protect
the spheres from arc damage, it may be omitted.
(2) The bushing-type potential divider method
shall be considered a standard method for trans-
former tests.
(3) The rectified capacitor-current method
shall be considered a standard method for trans-
former tests.
(4) In conducting low-frequency tests for trans-
formers of 100 kVA and less to be tested a t
50 kV or less, it is permissible to depend on the
ratio of the testing transformer to indicate the
proper test voltage.
10.1.4 Type of Power Transformer. The
terms Class I and Class I1 Power Transformers
as used in this standard are defined in ANSI/
IEEE C57.12.00-1987 [17], 5.10.
10.1.5 Factory Dielectric Tests and Con-
ditions
10.1.5.1Test Sequence. Lightning impulse
voltage tests, when required, shall precede the
low-frequency tests. Switching impulse voltage
tests, when required, shall also precede the low-
frequency tests.
For Class I1 transformers, the final dielectric
test to be performed shall be the induced voltage
test.
10.1.5.2Temperature. Dielectric tests may
be made at temperatures assumed under normal
operation or a t the temperatures attained under
conditions of routine test.
10.1.5.3 Assembly. Transformers, includ-
ing bushings and terminal compartments when
necessary to verify air clearances, shall be as-
sembled prior to making dielectric tests, but as-
sembly of items, such as radiators and cabinets,
which do not affect dielectric tests is not nec-
essary. Bushings shall, unless otherwise autho-
rized by the purchaser, be those to be supplied
with the transformer.
10.1.5.4 Transformers for Connection to
Gas-Insulated Equipment. During dielectric
testing of transformers for direct connection to
gas-insulated substations, testing with the in-
service bushings is preferred, but substitute air-
oil bushings may be used unless otherwise spec-
ified by the user. Live part clearances and lo-
cations of the substitute bushings inside the
transformer must be identical, within normal
manufacturing tolerances, to those of the in-ser-

DISTRIBUTION, POWER, AND REGULATING TRANSFORMERS
vice bushings. When the required internal clear-
ances, or external air clearances, or both, cannot
be achieved, suitable arrangements are required
as determined by the manufacturer and user in
advance of the design of the transformer.
10.1.6 Tests on Bushings. When tests are re-
quired on outdoor apparatus (air-to-oil)bushings
separately from the transformers, the tests shall
be made in accordance with ANSI/IEEE Std 21-
1976 [23], and ANSI/IEEE Std 24-1984 [24].
Details of separate testing of bushings for use
on transformers connected to gas-insulated
equipment shall be agreed upon by the manu-
facturer and user prior to the design of the trans-
former.
10.1.7 Dielectric Tests in the Field. Field
dielectric tests may be warranted on the basis
of detection of combustible gas or other circum-
stances. However, periodic dielectric tests are
not recommended because of the severe stress
imposed on the insulation.
Where field dielectric tests are required, low-
frequency applied-voltage and induced-voltage
tests shall be used. For distribution transformers
and Class I power transformers, the line-to-
ground or line-to-line voltage stress imposed
shall not exceed 150% of normal operating stress
or 85% of full test voltage, whichever is lower.
The duration of the tests shall be the same as
that specified in 10.5 and 10.6 for applied and
induced voltage, respectively.
For Class I1 power transformers, the line-to-
ground or line-to-line voltage stress imposed
shall not exceed 150% of maximum system op-
erating voltage. The duration of the test shall
not exceed the following limits:
Test Voltage,
as a Percentage
of Maximum System Allowable Duration
Operating- Voltages
- (min)
150 5
140 12
130 36
120 120
The test frequency, when inducing a trans-
former in excess of its rated voltage, should be
increased as necessary to avoid core saturation.
Guidance in this area is provided in 10.6.2.
10.2 Switching Impulse Test Procedures.
The switching impulse test, when specified, shall
consist of applying or inducing a switching im-
33
ANSI / IEEE
C57.12.90-1987
pulse wave between each high-voltage line ter-
minal and ground with a crest value equal to
the specified test level.
10.2.1 Number of Tests. The test series shall
consist of one reduced voltage transient at 50%
to 70% of specified test level followed by two
full voltage transients at the specified test level.
10.2.2 Switching Impulse Waves
10.2.2.1 Polarity. Either positive or nega-
tive polarity waves, or both, may be used.
10.2.2.2 Wave Shape. The switching im-
pulse voltage wave shall have a crest value in
accordance with the assigned insulation level,
subject to a tolerance of -+ 3%, and shall exceed
90% of the crest value for at least 200 ps. The
actual time to crest shall be greater than
100 ps and the time to the first voltage zero on
the tail of the wave shall be a t least 1000 ps.
Occasionally, core saturation will cause the
time to the first voltage zero to be less than
1000 ps. Successive transients of the same po-
larity may cause the time to the first voltage
zero to become even shorter. To increase the
time to the first voltage zero, it may be necessary
to magnetically bias the core in the direction
opposite to that caused by the switching impulse
transient. This can be accomplished by passing
a small direct current through the winding be-
tween impulses, by reversing the switching im-
pulse polarity on successive applications, or by
application of reduced impulses of opposite po-
larity before each full switching impulse tran-
sient. If biasing cannot be accomplished so as to
obtain 1000 ps to the first voltage zero, the
shorter tail may be used since the duration of a
switching impulse in actual service will simi-
larly be reduced because of core saturation.
10.2.2.3 Time to Crest. The actual time to
crest shall be defined as the time interval from
the start of the transient to the time when the
maximum amplitude is reached.
10.2.2.4 Time to First Voltage Zero. The
time to the first voltage zero on the tail of the
wave shall be defined as the time interval from
the start of the transient to the time when the
first voltage zero occurs on the tail of the wave.
10.2.2.5 Ninety-Percent Time. A smooth
wave sketched through any oscillations on the
switching impulse voltage oscillogram may be
used to determine the time that the applied wave
is in excess of 90% of the specified crest value.
10.2.3 Failure Detection. A voltage oscillo-
gram shall be taken of each applied or induced
transient. The test is successful if there is no
ANSI / IEEE
C57.12.90-1987
sudden collapse of voltage indicated to the os-
cillograms. Successive oscillograms may differ,
however, because of the influence of magnetic
saturation on impulse duration.
10.2.4 Tap Connections. The choice of tap
connections for all windings shall be made by
the manufacturer.
10.3 Lightning Impulse Test Procedures.
Lightning impulse tests when required as a rou-
tine test or when otherwise specified shall con-
sist of and be applied in the following order: one
reduced full-wave, two chopped-waves, and one
full-wave. The time interval between application
of the last chopped-wave and the final full-wave
should be minimized to avoid recovery of di-
electric strength if a failure were to occur prior
to the final full-wave.
When front-of-wave tests are also specified,
impulse tests are generally applied in the fol-
lowing order: one reduced full-wave, two front-
of-waves, two chopped-waves, and one full-wave.
The order of the chopped-wave and front-of-
wave tests is not mandatory, but a reduced full-
wave must be applied first, and the full-wave
must be the last wave to be applied to the ter-
minal under test. Other reduced full-waves may
be applied at any time during the intervening
sequence.
For guide information on impulse testing tech-
niques, interpretation of oscillograms, and fail-
ure detection criteria see ANSI/IEEE C57.98-
1986 [20].
10.3.1 General. Impulse tests shall be made
without excitation. Impulse tests shall not be
made on windings that have no terminals
brought out through the tank or cover.
10.3.1.1 Full-Wave Test. The test wave
rises to crest in 1.2 p s and decays to half of crest
value in 50 ps from the virtual time zero. The
crest value shall be in accordance with the as-
signed basic impulse insulation level (BIL), sub-
ject to a tolerance of t3%, and no flashover of
the bushing or test gap shall occur. The toler-
ance on time to crest should normally be ? 30%
and the tolerance on time to half of crest shall
normally be -t 20%; however, as a practical mat-
ter:
(1)The time to crest shall not exceed 2.5 p s
except for windings of large impulse capacitance
(low voltage, high kilovoltampere and some high
voltage, high kilovoltampere windings).
To demonstrate that the large capacitance of
the winding causes the long front, the impulse
34
IEEE STANDARD TEST CODE FOR LIQUID-IMMERSED
generator series resistance may be reduced,
which should cause superimposed oscillations.
Only the inherent generator and lead induc-
tances should be in the circuit.
(2) The impedance of some windings may be
so low that the desired time to the 50% voltage
point on the tail of the wave cannot be obtained
with available equipment. In such cases, shorter
waves may be used. To ensure that an adequate
test is obtained, the capacitance of the generator
with the connection used should exceed
0.011 pF.
For convenience in measurement, the time to
crest may be considered as 1.67 times the actual
times between points on the front of the wave
a t 30% and 90% of the crest value.
The virtual time zero can be determined by
locating points on the front of the wave at which
the voltage is, respectively, 30% and 90% of the
crest value and then drawing a straight line
through these points. The intersection of this
line with the time axis (zero-voltage line) is the
virtual time zero.
When there are oscillations on the front of the
waves, the 30% and 90% points shall be deter-
mined from the average, smooth wave front
sketched in through the oscillations. The mag-
nitude of the oscillations perferably should not
exceed 10% of the applied voltage.
When there are high-frequency oscillations on
the crest of the wave, the crest value shall be
determined from a smooth wave sketched
through the oscillations. When the period of
these oscillations is 2 p s or more, the actual crest
value shall be used.
10.3.1.2 Reduced Full-Wave Test. This
wave is the same as a full-wave except that the
crest value shall be between 50% and 70% of
the full-wave value.
10.3.1.3 Chopped-Wave Test. This wave is
also the same as a full wave except that the crest
value shall be at the required higher level and
the voltage wave shall be chopped a t or after
the required minimum time to sparkover. In
general, the gap or other equivalent chopping
device shall be located as close as possible to the
terminals and the impedance shall be limited to
that of the necessary leads to the gap; however,
it shall be permissible for the manufacturer to
add resistance to limit the amount of overswing
to the opposite polarity to 30% of the amplitude
of the chopped wave.
10.3.1.4 Front-of-Wave Test. The wave to
be used is similar to a full wave except that it

DISTRIBUTION, POWER, AND REGULATING TRANSFORMERS
is chopped on the front of the wave at the as-
signed crest level and time to sparkover. The
time to sparkover for front-of-wave impulse tests
shall be the time from virtual zero to the time
of sparkover. As with the chopped-wave test, it
shall be permissible for the manufacturer to add
resistance in the circuit to limit the amount of
overswing to the opposite polarity to 30% of the
amplitude of the front-of-wave.
10.3.1.5 Wave Polarity. For mineral-oil-im-
mersed transformers, the test waves are nor-
mally of negative polarity to reduce the risk of
erratic external flashover in the test circuit.
10.3.1.6 Impulse Oscillograms. All im-
pulses applied to a transformer shall be recorded
by a cathode-ray oscillograph or by suitable dig-
ital transient recorder, unless their crest voltage
is less than 40% of the full-wave level. These
oscillograms shall include voltage oscillograms
for all impulses and ground-current oscillograms
for all full-wave and reduced full-wave impulses.
Sweep times should be in the order of 2 ps to
5 ps for front-of-wave tests, 5 ps to 10 ps for
chopped-wave tests, 50 p s to 100 p s for full-wave
tests, and 100 ps to 600 p s for ground-current
measurements.
When reports require oscillograms, those of
the first reduced full-wave voltage and current,
the last two chopped-waves, and the last full-
wave of voltage and current shall represent a
record of the successful application of the im-
pulse test to the transformer.
When transformers receiving front-of-wave
impulse tests require reports that include oscil-
lograms, those of the first reduced full-wave volt-
age and current, the last two front of waves, the
last two chopped-waves, and the last full-wave
of voltage and current shall represent a record
of the successful application of the front-of-wave
impulse test to the transformer.
10.3.2 Connections for Impulse Tests of
Line Terminals. In general, the tests shall be
applied to each terminal, one a t a time.
10.3.2.1 Terminals not Being Tested. Neu-
tral terminals shall be solidly grounded. Line
terminals, including those of autotransformers
and regulating transformers, shall be either sol-
idly grounded or grounded through a resistor
with a n ohmic value not in excess of the follow-
ing values:
35
ANSI / IEEE
C57.12.90-1987
Nominal System Resistance
Voltage (kV) (a)
345 and below 450
500 350
765 300
NOTE: These values a r e representative of typical transmis-
sion-line surge impedances.
The following factors shall be considered in
the actual choice of grounding for each terminal:
(1)The voltage-to-ground on any terminal that
is not being tested should not exceed 80% of the
full-wave impulse voltage level for that termi-
nal.
(2) When a terminal has been specified to be
directly grounded in service, then that terminal
shall be solidly grounded.
(3) When a terminal is to be connected to a
low-impedance cable connection in service, then
that terminal shall either be directly grounded
or grounded through a resistor with a n ohmic
value not in excess of the surge impedance of
the cable.
(4) Grounding through a low-impedance shunt
for cathode-ray oscillograph current measure-
ments may be considered the equivalent of a
solid ground.
10.3.2.2 Windings for Series or Multiple
Connections. When either connection is 25 kV
nominal system voltage or above, the windings
shall be tested on both series and multiple con-
nections. The test voltage for the two conditions
shall be that corresponding to the basic impulse
insulation level (BIL) of the winding for that
connection. For nominal system voltages 15 kV
and below, only the series connections shall be
tested unless tests on both connections are spec-
ified.
10.3.2.3 Windings for Delta (A) or Wye (Y)
Connections. When either connection is 25 kV
nominal system voltage or above, the three-
phase transformer shall be tested on both A and
Y connections. The test voltage for each con-
nection shall be that corresponding to the BIL
of the winding for that connection. For nominal
system voltages 15 kV and below, only the Y
connection shall be tested unless tests on both
connections are specified.
10.3.2.4 Tap Connections. Tap connections
shall be made with minimum effective turns in
the winding under test. The choice of tap con-
nections of windings not being tested shall be
ANSI / IEEE
C57.12.90-1987
made by the manufacturer. (Regulating trans-
formers shall be set at maximum buck position)
10.3.2.5 Protective Devices that Are an
Integral Part of the Transformer. Trans-
formers and regulators may have as a n integral
part nonlinear protective devices connected
across whole or portions of windings. During im-
pulse testing, operation of these protective de-
vices may cause differences between the reduced
full-wave and the full-wave oscillograms. That
these differences are caused by the operation of
the protective devices may be demonstrated by
making two or more reduced full-wave impulse
tests a t different voltage levels to show the trend
in their operation.
Typical oscillograms depicting the operation
of protective devices during impulse testing are
shown in ANSI/IEEE C57.98-1986 [20].
10.3.3 Impulse Tests on Transformer Neu-
trals. Impulse tests on the neutral of a trans-
former or a separate regulator connected in the
neutral of a transformer require one reduced
and two full-waves to be applied directly to the
neutral or regulator winding with a n amplitude
equal to the insulation level of the neutral. The
winding being tested shall be either on the min-
imum voltage connection or on the maximum
voltage connection. A wave having a front of not
more than 10 ps and a tail of 50 ps to half-crest
shall be used except that, when the inductance
of the winding is so low that the desired voltage
magnitude and duration to the 50% point on the
tail of the wave cannot be obtained, a shorter
wave tail may be used.
10.3.4 Detection of Failure During Im-
pulse Test. Because of the nature of impulse-
test failures, one of the most important matters
is the detection of such failures. There are a
number of indications of insulation failure.
10.3.4.1 Ground Current Oscillograms.
In this method of failure detection, the impulse
current in the grounded end of the winding
tested is measured by means of a cathode ray
oscillograph or by suitable digital transient re-
corder connected across a suitable shunt in-
serted between the normally grounded end of
the winding and ground. Any differences in the
wave shape between the reduced full-wave and
final full-wave detected by comparison of the two
current oscillograms may be indications of fail-
ure or deviations due to noninjurious causes.
They should be fully investigated and explained
by a new reduced wave and full-wave test. Ex-
36
IEEE STANDARD TEST CODE FOR LIQUID-IMMERSED
amples of probable causes of different wave
shapes are operation of protective devices, core
saturation, or conditions in the test circuit ex-
ternal to the transformer.
The ground current method of detection is not
suitable for use with chopped-wave tests.
10.3.4.2 Other Methods of Failure Detec-
tion
(1)Voltage Oscillograms. Any unexplained dif-
ferences between the reduced full-wave and final
full-wave detected by comparison of the two volt-
age oscillograms, or any such differences ob-
served by comparing the chopped-waves to each
other and to the full-wave up to the time of
flashover, are indications of failure.
(2) Failure o f Gap to Sparkouer. In making the
chopped-wave test, failure of the chopping gap,
or any external part to sparkover, although the
voltage oscillogram shows a chopped-wave, is a
definite indication of a failure either within the
transformer or in the test circuit.
(3) Noise. Unusual noise within the trans-
former a t the instant of applying the impulse is
a n indication of trouble. Such noise should be
investigated.
(4) Measurement. Measurement of voltage and
current induced in another winding may also be
used for failure detection.
10.4 Low-Frequency Tests. Low-frequency
tests shall be performed in accordance with the
requirements of ANSUIEEE C57.12.00-1987
[17], 5.10 and Tables 4, 5, 6, and 7.
For distribution transformers and Class I
power transformers, the low-frequency tests lev-
els are developed by the applied voltage and
induced voltage tests described in 10.5 and 10.6,
or combinations thereof. The induced voltage
test may involve either single or three-phase
excitation.
For Class I1 power transformers, the low-fre-
quency tests involve a special induced test as
described in 10.7 and applied-voltage tests as
described in 10.5.
10.5 Applied Voltage Tests
10.5.1 Duration, Frequency, and Connec-
tions. A normal power frequency such as 60 Hz
shall be used and the duration of the test shall
be 1 min.
The winding being tested shall have all its
parts joined together and connected to the line
terminal of the testing transformer.
All other terminals and parts (including core

DISTRIBUTION, POWER, AND REGULATING TRANSFORMERS
and tank) shall be connected to ground and to
the other terminal of the testing transformer.
10.5.2 Relief Gap. A relief gap set at a voltage
10% or more in excess of the specified test volt-
age may be connected during the applied voltage
test.
10.5.3 Application of Test Voltage. The volt-
age should be started a t one quarter or less of
the full value and be brought up gradually to
full value in not more than 15 s. After being
held for the time specified, it should be reduced
gradually (in not more than 5 s) to one quarter
or less of the maximum value and the circuit
opened.
10.5.4 Failure Detection. Careful attention
should be maintained for evidence of possible
failure that could include items, such as a n in-
dication of smoke and bubbles rising in the oil,
a n audible sound such as a thump, or a sudden
increase in test circuit current. Any such indi-
cation should be carefully investigated by ob-
servation, by repeating the test, or by other tests
to determine if a failure has occurred.
10.6 Induced Voltage Tests For Distribution
and Class I Power Transformers
10.6.1 The induced voltage test shall be ap-
plied for 7200 cycles, or 60 s, whichever is
shorter.
10.6.2 As this test applies greater than rated
volts per turn to the transformer, the frequency
of the impressed voltage must be high enough
to limit the flux density in the core to that per-
mitted by ANSIAEEE C57.12.00-1987 [17],
4.1.6.1 (2). The minimum test frequency to meet
this condition is
Minimum
test frequency = -. Et rated frequency
l.l*E, (Eq 19)
where
Et = induced test voltage across winding
E, = rated voltage across winding
10.6.3 The voltage should be started at one
quarter or less of the full value and be brought
up gradually to full value in not more than
15 s. After being held for the time specified in
10.6.1 it should be reduced gradually (in not
more than 5 s) to one quarter or less of the
maximum value and the circuit opened.
10.6.3.1The timing involved in reaching test
voltage level and reducing voltage may be longer
when partial discharge measurements or tests
37
ANSI / IEEE
C57.12.90-1987
are being made concurrently with the induced
voltage test.
10.6.4 In the case of transformers having one
end of the high-voltage winding grounded, the
other windings should be grounded during the
induced voltage test. This ground on each wind-
ing may be made at a selected point of the wind-
ing itself or of the winding of a step-up
transformer that is used to supply the voltage
or that is connected for the purpose of furnishing
the ground.
10.6.5 When the induced test on a winding
results in a voltage between terminals of other
windings in excess of the low-frequency test volt-
age specified in these standards, the other wind-
ing may be sectionalized and grounded.
Additional induced tests shall then be made to
give the required test voltage between terminals
of windings that were sectionalized.
10.6.6 Failure Detection. Careful attention
should be maintained for evidence of possible
failure that could include items, such as a n in-
dication of smoke and bubbles rising in the oil,
a n audible sound such as a thump, a sudden
increase in test circuit current, or a n appreciable
increase in partial discharge level. Any such in-
dication should be carefully investigated by ob-
servation, by repeating the test, or by other tests
to determine if a failure has occurred.
10.7 Induced Voltage Test for Class I1 Power
Transformers
10.7.1 General. Each Class I1 power trans-
former shall receive a n induced voltage test with
the required test levels induced in the high-volt-
age winding. The tap connections shall be chosen
where possible so that test levels developed in
the other windings are 1.5 times their maximum
operating voltages, as specified in ANSI C84.1-
1982 [14].
10.7.2 Test Procedure. The voltage shall
first be raised to the 1 h level and held long
enough to verify that there are no partial dis-
charge problems. The voltage shall then be
raised to the enhancement level and held for
7200 cycles. The voltage shall then be reduced
directly back to the 1 h level and held for 1 h.
During this 1 h period, partial discharge mea-
surements shall be made at 5 min intervals on
each line terminal 115 kV and above. These mea-
surements shall be made in accordance with
10.8.
10.7.3 Connections. The transformer shall be
excited exactly as it will be in service. Single-
 ~
ANSI / IEEE
C57.12.90-1987
phase transformers shall be excited from single-
phase sources. Three-phase transformers shall
be excited from three-phase sources.
The neutral terminals shall be solidly
grounded. This will stress all of the insulation
at the same per unit of overstress.
10.7.4 Frequency. The test frequency shall
be increased, relative to operating frequency, as
required to avoid core saturation. The require-
ments in 10.6.2 are also applicable in the case
of this induced test.
10.7.5 Failure Detection. Failure may be in-
dicated by the presence of smoke and bubbles
rising in the oil, a n audible sound such as a
thump, or a sudden increase in test current. Any
such indication shall be carefully investigated
by observation, by repeating the test, or by other
tests to determine if a failure has occurred.
In terms of interpretation of partial discharge
measurements, the results shall be considered
acceptable and no further partial discharge tests
required when
(1) The magnitude of the partial discharge
(PD) level does not exceed 100 pV
(2) The increase in partial discharge (PD) lev-
els during the 1 h does not exceed 30 pV
(3) The PD levels during the 1h do not exhibit
any steadily rising trend and there is no sudden,
sustained increase in levels during the last
20 min of the tests.
Judgment should be used on the 5 min read-
ings so that momentary excursions of the radio-
influence voltage (RIV) meter caused by cranes
or other ambient sources are not recorded. Also,
the test may be extended or repeated until ac-
ceptable results are obtained.
When no breakdown occurs, and unless very
high partial discharges are sustained for a long
time, the test is regarded as nondestructive. A
failure to meet the partial discharge acceptance
criterion shall therefore not warrant immediate
rejection but lead to consultation between pur-
chaser and manufacturer about further inves-
tigations.
10.8 Partial Discharge Measurement
10.8.1 Internal Partial Discharges. Appar-
ent internal partial discharges shall be deter-
mined in terms of the radio-influence voltage
(RIV) generated and measured at the line ter-
minals of the winding under test.5
Partial discharge activity within the transformer may
also be measured in terms of apparent charge (picocoulomb).
This approach should normally provide several advantages
38
IEEE STANDARD TEST CODE FOR LIQUID-IMMERSED
10.8.2 Instrumentation. A radio noise and
field strength meter conforming to ANSI C63.2-
1980 [13], shall be used to measure the radio-
influence voltage (RIV) generated by any inter-
nal partial discharges. The measurement shall
be on a quasi-peak basis a t a nominal frequency
of 1 MHz, although any frequency from
0.85 MHz to 1.15 MHz may be used to discrim-
inate against local radio-station signal interfer-
ence. The radio-noise meter shall be coupled to
the line terminal(s) of the winding under test
through the capacitance tap of the bushingb).
A suitable device shall be used to compensate
for the capacitance dividing effect produced by
the bushing tap-to-ground capacitance plus that
of all elements between the bushing tap and the
meter (coaxial cables, adapters, etc). This device
shall be tuned so as to minimize the dividing
effect of the capacitances and to convey the RIV
signal to the radio-noise meter with a minimum
of attenuation. External shielding may be used
to avoid air corona as may occur at the bushing
terminals or grounded projections. Radio-fre-
quency chokes or tuned filters may be used to
isolate the transformer under test and the radio-
influence voltage (RIV) measuring circuit from
the remainder of the test circuit, including its
energy source.
10.8.3 Calibration. The test circuit compo-
nents connected to the winding under test may
attenuate the generated RIV level and add to
the measured RIV background level. It is there-
fore necessary to determine the relationship be-
tween the RIV at the terminal of the winding
under test and the RIV reading of the radio-
noise meter when connected at its normal lo-
cation in the test circuit. The steps in estab-
lishing this calibration ratio are
(1)Apply a signal to the terminal under test
of approximately 100 pV at the measuring fre-
quency.
(2) Measure the voltage a t the terminal with
the radio-noise meter connected directly to the
terminal.
(3)With the same radio-noise meter, measure
the voltage provided by the test circuit at the
location where the radio-noise meter will be con-
including less attenuation of signal. General principles and
circuits are described in ANSI/IEEE Std 454-1973 (R 1979)
[26]. However. requirements for specific test procedures and
limits have not been developed. This work is proceeding
within the IEEE Transformers Committee. In the meantime,
where agreed to by both the user and the manufacturer,
apparent charge measurements may be used in lieu of or in
conjunction with RIV-type measurements.
 ANSI / IEEE
DISTRIBUTION, POWER, AND REGULATING TRANSFORMERS C57.12.90-1987

Table 1
Measurements To Be Made in Insulation Power-Factor Tests
Method I
Test Without Guard Circuit*
Two-winding transformers**
High to low and ground
Low to high and ground
High and low to ground
Three-winding transformers**
High to low, tertiary, and ground
Low to high, tertiary, and ground
Tertiary to high, low and ground
High and low to tertiary and ground
High and tertiary to low and ground
Low and tertiary to high and ground
High, low, and tertiary to ground
Method I1
Test with Guard Circuit*
Two-winding transformers**
High to low and ground
High to ground, guard on low
Low to high and ground
Low to ground, guard on high
Three-winding transformers**
High to low and ground, guard on tertiary
High to ground, guard on low and tertiary
Low to tertiary and ground, guard on high
Low to ground, guard on high and tertiary
Tertiary to high and ground, guard on low
Tertiary to ground, guard on high and low
High and low to tertiary and ground
High and tertiary to low and ground

* In this table the term guard signifies one or more conducting elements arranged and connected
on a n electrical instrument or measuring circuit so as to divert unwanted currents from t h e mea-
suring means.
* * Permanently connected windings, such as in autotransformers and regulators, shall be consid-
ered as one winding.
NOTES: (1) While the real significance t h a t can be attached to the power factor of liquid-immersed
transformers is still a matter of opinion, experience has shown t h a t power factor is helpful in
assessing the probable condition of the insulation when good judgement is used.
(2) In interpreting the results of power-factor test values, t h e comparative values of tests taken
a t periodic intervals a r e useful in identifying potential problems rather than a n absolute value of
power factor.
(3) A factory power-factor test will be of value for comparison with field power-factor measurements
to assess t h e probable condition of the insulation. It has not been feasible to establish standard
power-factor values for liquid-immersed transformers because:
(a)Experience has indicated t h a t little or no relation exists between power factor and the ability
of the transformer to withstand the prescribed dielectric tests.
6)Experience has shown t h a t the variation in power factor with temperature is substantial
and erratic so t h a t no single correction curve will fit all cases.
(c)The various liquids and insulating materials used in transformers result in large variations
in insulation power-factor values.

Table 2
Winding Temperature Correction Factor
Time
After Winding Temperature Correction Factor
Shutdown
~

(min) W/kg W/lb

Copper Aluminum Copper A 1urn i n u m
1 0.09 0.032 0.19 0.07
1.5 0.12 0.045 0.26 0.10
2 0.15 0.059 0.32 0.13
3 0.20 0.077 0.43 0.17
4 0.23 0.095 0.50 0.21

39
ANSI / IEEE
C57.12.90-1987
nected during the partial discharge test on the
transformer. A second radio-noise meter may be
used for this measurement provided its rela-
tionship to the first has been established at the
measuring frequency.
(4) The ratio of the calibration signal voltage
measured at the transformer terminal to that
measured a t the normal meter location in the
test circuit shall be used as a multiplier on the
RIV at t,he terminal of the winding under test.
(5) It shall be established that this calibration
ratio remains valid over the RIV range of in-
terest.
10.8.4 See ANSUIEEE Std 454-1973 (R1979)
[26] for further background information.
10.9 Insulation Power-Factor Tests. Insula-
tion power factor is the ratio of the power dis-
sipated in the insulation in watts to the product
of the effective voltage and current in volt-
amperes when tested under a sinusoidal voltage
and prescribed conditions.
The methods described herein are applicable
to distribution and power transformers of pres-
ent-day design that are immersed in a n insu-
lating liquid.
10.9.1 Preparation for Tests. The test spec-
imen shall have
(1)All windings immersed in insulating liquid
(2) All windings short circuited
(3) All bushings in place
(4) Temperature of windings and insulating
liquid near the reference temperature of 20 "C
10.9.2 Instrumentation. Insulation power
factor may be measured by special bridge cir-
cuits or by the voltampere-watt method. The
accuracy of measurement should be within
2 0.25% insulation power factor and the mea-
surement should be made at or near a frequency
of 60 Hz.
10.9.3 Voltage To Be Applied. The voltage
to be applied for measuring insulation power
factor shall not exceed half of the low-frequency
test voltage given in ANSI/IEEE C57.12.00-
1987, Table 4, for any part of the winding, or
10 000 V, whichever is lower.
10.9.4 Procedure. Insulation power-factor
tests shall be made from windings to ground and
between windings as shown in Table 1.
10.9.5 Temperature Correction Factors.
Temperature correction factors for the insula-
tion power factor depend upon the insulating
materials, their structure, moisture content, etc.
Values of correction factor K are typical and are
40
IEEE STANDARD TEST CODE FOR LIQUID-IMMERSED
satisfactory for practical purposes for use in
Eq. 20.
(Eq 20)
where
Fp20= power factor corrected to 20 "C
FPt= power factor measured at T
T = test temperature, "C
K = correction factor
NOTE: The correction factors listed above are based on in-
sulation systems using mineral oil as a n insulating liquid.
Other insulation liquids may have different correction fac-
tors.
Insulation temperature may be considered to
be that of the average liquid temperature.
When insulation power factor is measured at
a relatively high temperature and the corrected
values are unusually high, the transformer
should be allowed to cool and the measurements
should be repeated at or near 20 "C.
10.10 Insulation Resistance Tests. Insulation
resistance tests shall be made when specified.
Insulation resistance tests are made to deter-
mine the insulation resistance from individual
windings to ground or between individual wind-
ings. The insulation resistance in such tests is
commonly measured in megaohms, or may be
calculated from measurements of applied volt-
age and leakage current.
NOTES: (1)The insulation resistance of electrical apparatus
is of doubtful significance compared with the dielectric
strength. It is subject to wide variation in design, temper-
ature, dryness, and cleanliness of the parts. When the in-
sulation resistance falls below prescribed values, it can, in
most cases of good design and where no defect exists, be
brought up to the required standard by cleaning and drying
the apparatus. The insulation resistance, therefore, may af-
ford a useful indication as to whether the apparatus is in
suitable condition for application of dielectric test.
(2) The significance of values of insulation-resistance tests
generally requires some interpretation, depending on the
design and the dryness and cleanliness of the insulation
involved. When a user decides to make insulation resistance
tests, it is recommended t h a t insulation resistance values
be measured periodically (during maintenance shutdown)
and t h a t these periodic values be plotted. Substantial vari-
ations in the plotted values of insulation resistance should
be investigated for cause.
(3) Insulation resistances may vary with applied voltage
and any comparison must be made with measurements a t
the same voltage.
(4)Under no conditions should tests be made while the
transformer is under vacuum.
10.10.1 Preparation for Tests. The test spec-
imen shall have

DISTRIBUTION, POWER, AND REGULATING TRANSFORMERS
(1) All windings immersed in insulating liquid
(2) All windings short circuited
(3) All bushings in place
(4)Temperature of windings and insulating
liquid near the reference temperature of 20 "C.
10.10.2 Instrumentation. Insulation-resist-
ance may be measured using
(1) A variable voltage dc power supply with
means to measure voltage and current (gener-
ally in microamperes or milliamperes)
(2) A megohmeter
NOTE: Megohmeters are commonly available with nominal
voltages of 500 V, 1000 V, and 2500 V; dc applied test equip-
ment is available at higher voltages.
10.10.3 Voltage to be Applied. The dc volt-
age applied for measuring insulation resistance
to ground shall not exceed a value equal to the
rms low-frequency applied voltage allowed in
10.5.
NOTES: (1) Partial discharges should not be present during
insulation resistance tests, since they can damage a trans-
former and may also result in erroneous values of insulation
resistance.
(2) When measurements are to be made using dc voltages
exceeding the rms operating voltage of the winding involved
(or 1000 V for a solidly-grounded Y winding), a relief gap
may be employed to protect the insulation.
10.10.4 Procedure
(1) Insulation-resistance tests shall be made
with all circuits of equal voltage above ground
connected together. Circuits or groups of circuits
of different voltage above ground shall be tested
separately.
EXAMPLES: (1)High voltage to low voltage
and ground, low voltage to high voltage and
ground.
(2) Voltage should be increased in increments
of usually 1kV to 5 kV and held for 1 min while
the current is read.
(3) The test should be discontinued immedi-
ately in the event the current begins to increase
without stabilizing.
(4)After the test has been completed all ter-
minals should be grounded for a period of time
sufficient to allow any trapped charges to decay
to a negligible value.
11. Temperature Rise
See ANSI/IEEE C57.12.00-1987 [17], 7.2 for
conditions under which temperature limits ap-
ply. The transformers shall be tested in the com-
bination of connections and taps that give the
highest winding temperature rises as deter-
41
ANSI / IEEE
C57.12.90-1987
mined by the manufacturer and reviewed by the
purchaser's representative when available. This
will generally involve those connections and
taps resulting in the highest losses.
All temperature rise tests shall be made under
normal (or equivalent to normal) conditions of
the means of cooling.
(1)Transformers shall be completely assem-
bled and filled to the proper liquid level.
(2) When the transformers are equipped with
thermal indicators, bushing-type current trans-
formers, or the like, such devices shall be assem-
bled with the transformer.
(3) The temperature-rise test shall be made in
a room that is as free from drafts as practicable.
11.1 Ambient Temperature Measurement
11.1.1. For air-cooled transformers, the am-
bient temperature shall be taken as that of the
surrounding air, which shall not be less than
10 "C nor more than 40 "C. For temperatures
within this range, no correction factor shall be
applied. Tests may be made at temperatures out-
side this range when suitable correction factors
are available.
The temperature of the surrounding air shall
be determined by at least three thermocouples
or thermometers in containers spaced uniformly
around the transformer under test. They shall
be located at about half the height of the trans-
former and at a distance of 3 f t to 6 f t (1 m to
2 m) from the transformer. They shall be pro-
tected from drafts and from radiant heat from
the transformer under test or other sources.
When the time constant of the transformer as
calculated according to ANSI / IEEE C57.92-
1981 [19], Eq 9 is 2 h or less, the time constant
of the containers shall be between 50% and
150% of that of the transformer under test.
When the test constant of the transformer under
test is more than 2 h, the time constant of the
containers shall be within 1 h of that of the
transformer under test.
The time constant of the containers shall be
taken as the time necessary for its temperature
to change 6.3 "C when the ambient temperature
is abruptly changed to 10 "C.
11.1.2 For water-cooled transformers, the
flow rate in gallons per minute (liters per min-
ute) and the temperature of the incoming and
outgoing water shall be measured.
The ambient temperature shall be taken as
that of the incoming water that shall not be less
than 20 "C nor more than 30 "C. For tempera-
 -
ANSI / IEEE
C57.12.90-1987
tures within this range, no correction factor
shall be applied. Tests may be made at temper-
atures outside this range when suitable correc-
tion factors are available.
11.2 Liquid Rise Measurement
(1) Liquid temperature rise is the difference
between liquid temperature and the ambient
temperature. The ultimate liquid temperature
rise above ambient shall be considered to be
reached when the temperature rise does not
vary more than 2.5% or 1 "C, whichever is
greater, during a consecutive 3 h period.
It is permissible to shorten the time required
for the test by the use of initial overloads, re-
stricted cooling, etc.
(2) The top liquid temperature shall be mea-
sured by a thermocouple or suitable thermom-
eter immersed approximately 2 in (50 mm) below
the top liquid surface.
(3) The average liquid temperature shall be
taken to be equal to the top liquid temperature
minus half the difference in temperature of the
moving liquid at the top and the bottom of the
cooling means. Where the bottom liquid tem-
perature cannot be measured directly, the tem-
perature difference may be taken to be the
difference between the surface temperature of
the liquid inlet and outlet.
(4) A thermocouple is the preferred method
of measuring surface temperature (see 11.4 for
method of measurement).
11.3 Average Winding Temperature-Rise
Measurement. The average temperature rise
of a winding shall be the average winding tem-
perature minus the ambient temperature.
The average temperature of the winding shall
be determined by the resistance method. Where
the use of the resistance method is impossible
(for example, with extremely low-resistance
windings) other methods may be used. Readings
should be taken as soon as possible after shut-
down, allowing sufficient time for the inductive
effects to disappear as indicated from the cold-
resistance measurement. The time from the in-
stant of shutdown for each resistance measure-
ment shall be recorded. Fans and cooling water
shall be shut off during shutdown for resistance
measurement. Oil pumps may be shut off or left
running during shutdown for resistance mea-
surement. The average temperature of a wind-
ing shall be determined by the following
formula:
42
IEEE STANDARD TEST CODE FOR LIQUID-IMMERSED
where
T = temperature in "C, corresponding to hot
resistance R
To = temperature in "C at which cold resist-
ance R , was measured
R, = cold resistance, measured according to
Secetion 5 of this standard, (a)
R = hot resistance, (a)
T k = 234.5 "C (copper)
225.0 "C (aluminum)
NOTE: The value of Tk may be as high as 230 "Cfor alloyed
aluminum.
11.3.1 Temperature Correction to Instant
of Shutdown. Either of two correction factor
procedures shall be used depending upon the
winding load loss density. For these determi-
nations the winding load loss density for the
winding connection shall be taken as the sum
of the calculated 12R and eddy losses or, the
winding at the rated temperature rise plus
20 "C divided by the calculated conductor weight
of the connected winding.
11.3.1.1 Empirical Method. This method
may be used for transformers typical of those
built to the requirements of ANSI/IEEE C57
standards when the load loss of the winding does
not exceed 30 W / lb (66 W / kg) for copper, or
60 W / lb (132 W / kg) for aluminum.
One reading of hot resistance shall be taken
on each winding, the time after shutdown re-
corded, and the corresponding temperature de-
termined.
All readings of hot resistance shall be made
within 4 min of shutdown. If all required read-
ings cannot be made within 4 min, the temper-
ature test shall be resumed for 1 h after which
readings may again be taken.
The temperature correction to instant of shut-
down shall be a n added number of degrees equal
to the factor taken from Table 2 multiplied by
the windings W / lb (W / kg). Factors for inter-
mediate times may be obtained by interpolation.
When the load loss of the winding does not
exceed 7 W / l b (15 W / k g ) for copper, or
14 W /lb (31 W / kg) for aluminum, a correction
of 1 "C/ min may be used.
11.3.1.2 Cooling Curve Method. A series
of at least four readings of resistance shall be
made on one phase of each winding and the time
recorded for each reading.

DISTRIBUTION, POWER, AND REGULATING TRANSFORMERS
The first reading of each series shall be made
as soon as the inductive effect has subsided and
not more than 4 min after shutdown.
After a set of readings on resistance has been
taken, the run shall be resumed for a period of
1 h, after which further readings may be taken.
This shall be repeated until all necessary read-
ings have been taken.
The resistance / time data shall be plotted on
suitable coordinate paper and the resulting
curve extrapolated to obtain the resistance at
the instant of shutdown. This resistance shall
be used to calculate the average winding tem-
perature at shutdown.
The resistance/time data obtained on one
phase of a winding may be used to determine
the correction back to shutdown for the other
phases of the same winding, provided the first
reading on each of the other phases has been
taken within 4 min after shutdown.
11.4 Other Temperature Measurements.
When measured, the temperature rise of metal
parts other than windings shall be determined
by use of a thermocouple or suitable thermom-
eter.
A thermocouple is the preferred method of
measuring surface temperature. When used for
this purpose, the thermocouple should be sol-
dered to the surface. When this is not practical,
the thermocouple should be soldered to a thin
metal plate or foil approximately 1in2 (25 mm2).
The plate should be held firmly and snugly
against the surface. The thermocouple should be
thoroughly insulated thermally from the sur-
rounding medium.
The surface temperature of metal parts sur-
rounding or adjacent to outlet leads or terminals
carrying heavy current may be measured at in-
tervals or immediately after shutdown.
11.5 Test Methods. Tests shall be made by one
of the following methods:
(1) Actual loading
(2) Simulated loading
(a) The short-circuit method, in which ap-
propriate total losses are produced by the effect
of short-circuit current
03) The loading back (opposition) method, in
which rated voltage and current are induced in
the transformer under test
11.5.1 Actual Loading. The actual loading
method is the most accurate of all methods, but
its energy requirements are excessive for large
transformers.
43
ANSI / IEEE
C57.12.90-1987
Transformers of small output may be tested
under actual load conditions by loading them on
a rheostat, bank of lamps, water box, etc.
11.5.2 Simulated Loading
11.5.2.1 Short-circuit Method
(1) Short circuit one or more windings and
circulate sufficient current at rated frequency
to produce total losses for the connection and
loading used. Total losses shall be those mea-
sured in accordance with Sections 8 and 9 of this
standard and converted to a temperature equal
to the rated average winding temperature rise
plus 20 "C.
(2) Determine liquid rises as described in 11.2.
(3) Immediately reduce the current in the
windings to the rated value for the connection
and the loading used, hold constant for 1h, mea-
sure liquid temperature, shutdown, and mea-
sure the average winding temperature as
described in 11.3. When test equipment limita-
tions dictate, it is permissible to operate at a
value lower than rated current but not less than
85% of rated current.
(4)Average winding rise shall be calculated
by using either top liquid rise or average liquid
rise. When other than rated winding current is
used, the average liquid rise method shall be
used to determine winding rises.
(a) In the top liquid rise method, the aver-
age winding temperature rise is equal to the top
liquid rise, measured during the total loss run,
plus the quantity (average winding temperature
at shutdown minus top liquid temperature a t
shutdown).
01) In the average liquid rise method, the
average winding rise is the average liquid rise,
measured during the total loss run, plus the
quantity (average winding temperature at shut-
down minus average liquid temperature at shut-
down).
When the current held in any of the windings
under test differs from the rated current, the
observed differences between the average wind-
ing temperature at shutdown and the average
liquid temperature at shutdown shall be cor-
rected to give the average temperature rise of
the windings at the rated current by using the
following formula:
T, = To (rated current)2m
test current (Eq 22)
where
ANSI / IEEE
C57.12.90-1987 IEEE STANDARD TEST CODE FOR LIQUID-IMMERSED

T, = corrected difference between average where

winding temperature, corrected to shut-
down, and the average liquid tempera-
ture at shutdown
To = the observed difference between average
winding temperature, corrected to shut-
down, and the average liquid tempera-
ture at shutdown
m = 0.8 for Class OA and FA and nondirected
Class FOA and FOW2
= 1.0 for directed-flow Class FOA and
FOW2
The corrected average winding rise is the av-
erage liquid rise, measured during the total loss
run, plus T,.
11.5.2.2 Loading Back Method. Duplicate
transformers may be tested by connecting their
respective high-voltage and low-voltage wind-
ings in parallel (Figs 28 and 29). Apply rated
voltage at rated frequency to one set of windings.
Circulate load current by opening the connec-
tions of either pair of windings at one point and
impress a voltage across the break just sufficient
to circulate rated current through the windings.
Obtain top fluid rise as described in 11.2. Then
shut down and measure winding rise as in 11.3.
When load current at other than rated fre-
quency is used, the frequency may not differ
from rated frequency by more than lo%, and
liquid rise must be corrected by using one of the
following methods:
(1) Calculation. This method may be used
when actual loss is within 20% of the required
loss.
(Eq 23)
Td = liquid rise correction, "c
Tb = observed liquid rise, "C
W = required loss, W
w = actual loss, W
n = 0.8 for Class OA
= 0.9 for Class FA
= 1.0 for Classes FOA and FOW
Corrected liquid rise = observed liquid rise
-k Td
Corrected winding rise = observed winding rise
$- Td
(2) Adjust the Losses. When the top liquid rise
approaches a constant condition, adjust the ex-
citation voltage until the sum of the excitation
loss and the load loss as measured during the
temperature test equals the required loss. Ob-
tain top fluid rise as described in 11.2.
11.6 Correction of Temperature Rises for
Differences in Altitude. When tests are made
at a n altitude of 3300 f t (1000 m) or less, no
altitude correction shall be applied to the tem-
perature rises.
When a transformer tested at a n altitude of
less than 3300 ft (1000 m) is to be operated at
a n altitude above 3300 f t (1000 m), it shall be
assumed that the temperature rises will increase
in accordance with the following formula:
Fig 29
Example of Loading Back Method
Three Phase
RATED FREQUENCY
EXC ITAT ION SOU RCE

Fig 28
Example of Loading Back Method
Single Phase

I I

- LOAD ING I
I 1

TRANSFORMER LOADING
TRANSFORMER
I

I SOURCE FOR
IMPEDANCE LOSS
LOADING SOURCE

44

DISTRIBUTION, POWER, AND REGULATING TRANSFORMERS
TA = Te ( A - 1000)F (Eq 24)
where
TA = increase in temperature rise at altitude
A meters, "C
Te = observed temperature rise, "C
A = altitude, m
F = 4 . lop5 self-cooled mode
=6 . forced-air cooled mode
12. Short-circuit Tests
12.1 Scope. This test code applies to liquidim-
mersed distribution and power transformers
5 kVA and above. Within the scope, four cate-
gories shall be recognized.
Single Phase Three Phase
Category (kVA) (kVA)
I* 5 to 500 15 to 500
I1 501 to 1667 501 to 5000
I11 1668 to 10000 5001 to 30000
IV Above 10000 Above 30 000
NOTE: All kilovoltampere ratings are minimum nameplate
kilovoltampere for the principal windings.
* Category I shall include distribution transformers man-
ufactured in accordance with ANSI C57.12.20-1981 [3] up
through 500 kVA, single phase or three phase. In addition,
autotransformers of 500 kVA equivalent two-winding kilc-
voltampere or less that are manufactured as distribution
transformers in accordance with ANSI C57.12.20-1981 [3]
shall be included in Category I, even though their nameplate
kilovoltampere may exceed 500 kVA.
The code defines a procedure by which the
mechanical capability of a transformer to with-
stand short-circuit stresses may be demon-
strated. The prescribed tests are not designed to
verify thermal performance. Conformance to
short-circuit thermal requirements shall be by
calculation in accordance with ANSI C57.12.00-
1987, Section 7.
The short-circuit test procedure described
herein is intended principally for application to
new transformers for the purpose of design ver-
ification. Tests may be conducted at manufac-
turer's facilities, test laboratories, or in the field,
but it must be recognized that complete equip-
ment is not usually available in the field for
conducting tests and verifying results.
12.2 Test Connections
12.2.1 Two-WindingTransformers and Au-
45
ANSI / IEEE
C57.12.90-1987
totransformers Without Tertiary Windings
12.2.1.1 Fault Location. The short circuit
may be applied on the transformer primary or
secondary terminals as dictated by the available
voltage source, but the secondary fault is pre-
ferred since it most closely represents the system
fault condition. The short circuit shall be applied
by means of suitable low-resistance connectors.
In order of preference, the tests may be con-
ducted by either
(1) Closing a breaker at the faulted terminal
to apply a short circuit to the previously ener-
gized transformer
(2) Closing a breaker at the source terminal
to apply energy to the previously short-circuited
transformer
12.2.1.2 Fault Type. The type of fault to
be applied will be dependent on the available
energy source. Any of the following types may
be used (given in order of preference for three-
phase transformers):
(1)Three-phase source: three-phase short cir-
cuit
(2) Three-phase source: single phase-to-ground
short circuit
(3) Single-phase source: simulated three-phase
short circuit
NOTE: For Y-connected windings, apply source or fault be-
tween one line terminal and the other two connected to-
gether. For A-connected windings, apply source or fault
between two line terminals with no connection to the other
line terminal (must be repeated for each of three phases).
(4) Single-phase source: single-phase short cir-
cuit on one phase a t a time (applies to all single-
phase transformers)
12.2.1.3 Tap Connection for Test. When
the transformer is provided with taps in any
winding, at least one test satisfying the asym-
metrical current requirement shall be made on
the tap connection which calculations predict
will produce the most severe mechanical
stresses. Extremes of the tap range, all taps out
or all taps in, normally produce the most severe
stresses, so tests on these connections are rec-
ommended. Tests on other taps, or connections
in the case of dual voltage windings, may be
made if required to ensure design adequacy.
12.2.2 Multiwinding Transformers, In-
cluding Autotransformers
12.2.2.1 Fault Location and Type. The
fault types and terminals to which they are to
be applied must be determined individually for
each particular transformer. The maximum
fault current for each winding shall be deter-
ANSI / IEEE
C57.12.90-1987
mined from calculations for the fault types spec-
ified in ANSI / IEEE C57.12.00-1987, Section 7,
by various fault types, fault locations, and ap-
plicable system data. During testing, each wind-
ing shall be subjected to its maximum calculated
fault current on at least one test. In general, a
given fault type and location will not produce
the maximum fault current in more than one
winding, so it will be necessary to make tests
with several different connections so as to eval-
uate fully the capability of all windings. In order
of preference, the tests may be conducted by
either
(1)Closing a breaker at the faulted terminal
to apply a short circuit to the previously ener-
gized transformer
(2) Closing a breaker at the source terminal
to apply energy to the previously short-circuited
transformer
12.3 Test Requirements
12.3.1 Symmetrical Current Requirement,
Two-Winding Transformers. For two-winding
transformers, the required value of symmetrical
current for any test shall be determined from
the equations in ANSI / IEEE C57.12.00-1987
[17], Section 7.
NOTE: For Categories I and 11, calculate I, using trans-
former impedance only, except for Category I the symmet-
rical current magnitude shall not exceed the values listed
in ANSI/IEEE C57.12.00-1987. [17], 7.1.4.2 and Table 11.
For Categories 111 and IV, calculate I, using transformer
plus system impedance.
See ANSI / IEEE C57.12.00-1987 [17], Section
7 for additional clarifying information on deter-
mination of 2,.
12.3.2 Symmetrical Current Requirement,
Multiwinding Transformers and Autotrans-
formers. For multiwinding transformers and
autotransformers, the required peak value of
symmetrical current in each winding shall be
determined by calculation based on applicable
system conditions and fault types.
12.3.3 Asymmetrical Current Require-
ment. The required first cycle peak for asym-
metrical current tests shall be calculated in
accordance with the equations in ANSI / IEEE
C57.12.00-1987 [17], Section 7.
12.3.4 Number of Tests. Each phase of the
transformer shall be subjected to a total of six
tests satisfying the symmetrical current require-
ment specified above. Two of these tests on each
phase shall also satisfy the asymmetrical cur-
rent requirements specified above.
46
IEEE STANDARD TEST CODE FOR LIQUID-IMMERSED
12.3.5 Duration of Tests. The duration of
short-circuit tests shall be in accordance with
ANSI /IEEE C57.12.00-1987 [17], Section 7.
12.4 Test Procedure
12.4.1 Fault Application. To produce the
fully asymmetrical current wave specified in
12.3, a synchronous switch should be used to
control the timing of fault application.
12.4.2 Calibration Tests. Calibration tests to
establish required source voltage or switch clos-
ing times should be made at voltage levels not
greater than 50% of the value that would pro-
duce the specified symmetrical short-circuit cur-
rent. For field testing, calibration tests should
be made at reduced voltage levels, if possible.
Tests with voltage equal to or greater than that
required to produce 95% of the specified sym-
metrical short-circuit current may be counted
toward fulfillment of the required number of
tests.
12.4.3 Terminal Voltage Limits. When tests
are to be made by applying the short circuit to
the energized transformers, the no-load source
voltage shall not exceed 110% of the rated tap
voltage unless otherwise approved by the man-
ufacturer.
Throughout the course of any test, the voltage
at the transformer source terminals shall be
maintained within a range of 95% to 105% of
that necessary to produce the required sym-
metrical short-circuit current as determined in
12.3.1.
12.4.4 Temperature Limits. For liquid-filled
transformers, the top liquid temperature at the
start of the test shall be between 0 "C and 40 "C.
12.4.5 Current Measurements. Current
magnitudes shall be measured on the trans-
former terminals connected to the energy
source. The symmetrical peak current shall be
established as half of the peak-to-peak envelope
of the current wave, measured at the midpoint
of the second cycle of test current. When the
transformer winding connected to the energy
source is Y-connected, the first cycle peak asym-
metrical current in each phase of the winding
shall be measured directly from the oscillogram
of terminal currents. When the transformer
winding connected to the energy source is A-
connected, the first cycle peak asymmetrical
current cannot be determined directly from ter-
minal measurements at the source terminals.
The following alternatives exist:
(1) Measure first cycle peak asymmetrical

DISTRIBUTION, POWER, AND REGULATING TRANSFORMERS
current on oscillograms at the faulted terminals,
when the faulted winding is Y-connected. Con-
vert to source winding current by inverse turns
ratio.
(2) When all windings are A-connected, con-
nect metering accuracy current transformers
(CT) having suitable current ratios inside the A
of the source winding and measure first cycle
peak asymmetrical current from oscillograms
obtained from these current transformers.
(3) When all windings are A-connected, deter-
mine only symmetrical current in the external
lines and time fault application for the instant
that would produce peak asymmetrical current
in the required phase winding. (Close breaker at
a time close to voltage zero for the given phase
winding, with appropriate timing adjustment to
account for the R / X ratio of the test system
plus transformer.)
12.4.6 Tolerances on Required Current.
The measured current, symmetrical or asym-
metrical, in the tested phase or phases shall not
be less than 95% of the required current, after
the measured impedance variation is taken into
account.
12.5 Proof of Satisfactory Performance. The
transformer under test shall be judged to have
performed satisfactorily when the visual inspec-
tion (12.5.1)and dielectric test (12.5.2)criteria
have been satisfactorily met. Sections 12.5.3
through 12.5.6list recommended terminal mea-
surements that can be made during the course
of the tests, but are not required to be made
unless specified. When the terminal measure-
ments are made and the requirements of 12.5.3
through 12.5.6have been met following all tests,
it is probable that the transformer has sustained
no mechanical damage during the test series. A
composite evaluation of the degree to which all
criteria of 12.5.3 through 12.5.6 have been met
may indicate the need for a greater or lesser
degree of visual inspection to confirm satisfac-
tory performance. The evidence may be suffi-
cient to permit a judgement of satisfactory
performance to be made without complete di-
electric tests. A decision to waive all or parts of
the visual inspection or dielectric test criteria
must be based upon discussion and negotiation
of all parties involved in specification and per-
formance of short-circuit tests.
12.5.1 Visual Inspection. Visual inspection
of the core and coils shall give no indication that
there has been any change in mechanical con-
47
ANSI / IEEE
C57.12.90-1987
dition that will impair the function of the trans-
former. The extent of the visual inspection shall
be established on the basis of combined evidence
obtained from the terminal measurements de-
scribed in 12.5.3 through 12.5.6. When the ter-
minal measurements give no indication of
change in condition, external inspection of the
core and coils removed from the tank may suf-
fice. Any evidence of change in condition from
more than one of the terminal measurements
warrants disassembly of the windings from the
core for a more detailed inspection.
12.5.2 Dielectric Tests. The transformer
shall withstand standard dielectric tests of
ANSI/IEEE C57.12.00-1987[17] at the full spec-
ification level following the short-circuit test se-
ries. Impulse tests shall be made following the
short-circuit test series only when specified.
12.5.3 Waveshape of Terminal Voltage
and Current. No abrupt changes shall occur in
the terminal voltage or short-circuit current
wave shapes during any test.
12.5.4 Leakage Impedance. Leakage imped-
ance measured on a per phase basis after the
test series shall not differ from that measured
before the test series by more than the values
specified here.
Category I: The allowable variation shall be a
function of the transformer impedance ZT as
follows:
ZT (Der unit) Percentage Variation
0.0299 or less 22.5 - 500 ZT
0.0300 or more 7.5
Categories II and III: 7.5% allowable for non-
circular concentric coils; 2% allowable variation
for circular coils
Category IV: 2% allowable variation
The measuring equipment must have the dem-
onstrated capability of giving reproducible read-
ings within a n accuracy of * 0.2%.
12.5.5 Low-Voltage Impulse (LVI) Tests.
Comparison of oscilloscope traces of LVI current
taken before and after each short circuit shall
show no significant change in waveshape. Ac-
ceptable conditions and conditions requiring fur-
ther investigation are defined as follows:
12.5.5.1 Acceptable Conditions
(1) No LVI trace change during the complete
test series.
(2) Small changes of amplitude or phase angle
occur following one of the short-circuit tests, but
ANSI / IEEE
C57.12.90-1987 IEEE STANDARD TEST CODE FOR LIQUID-IMMERSED

no further changes occur on subsequent tests. tones whose frequencies are even multiples of
(3) Small changes of amplitude or phase angle the transformer excitation frequency. The au-
occur following one of the short-circuit tests, but dible sound generated by auxiliary cooling
the trace returns to its original shape on sub- equipment, such as pumps and fans, has a more
sequent tests. broadly and evenly distributed frequency com-
12.5.5.2 Conditions Requiring Further position.
Investigation The A-weighted measurement characteristic
(1) Large LVI trace changes occur during the best relates how a remote young listener (with
course of the test series. normal hearing) hears the complex transformer-
(2) Small changes of amplitude or phase angle generated sound and shall be used to determine
occur after the first full amplitude short-circuit the average sound level performance of the
test and these changes continue to grow with transformer.
each subsequent test. For some purposes a frequency distribution of
LVI equipment and test procedures are de- a transformer's sound is desirable and, when
scribed in Part I1 of this standard. specified, it shall be measured in frequency
12.5.6 Excitation Current. Excitation cur- bands (either octave or one-third octave) or as
rent measured after the test series shall not in- discrete frequencies, as specified.
crease above that measured before the test series
by more than 5% for stacked type cores. For
transformers with wound core construction the
13.2 Instrumentation
increase shall not exceed 25%.
13.2.1 Sound level measurements shall be
12.5.7 Other Diagnostic Measurements. made with instrumentation that meets the re-
quirements of ANSI S1.4-1983 [ E ] for Type 2
Other diagnostic measurements may be made
meters.
during the course of the tests to evaluate
whether there have been any sudden or pro-
13.2.2 Octave band or one-third octave band
gressive changes in the mechanical condition of frequency measurements shall be made, when
the transformer. Such results may be useful to specified, with instrumentation that meets the
the understanding of the response to short-cir- requirements of ANSI S1.4-1983 [15] for Type 2
cuit forces, but they shall not form part of the meters together with ANSI S1.ll-1986 [16] for
Type E, Class I1 performance, or their equal.
proof criteria.
13.2.3 Discrete frequency measurements shall
be made when specified, or when test conditions
necessitate. Instrumentation is not presently
Test Temperature T, "C Correction Factor K
standardized; however, typical analyzer band-
10 0.80 width characteristics deemed suitable are one-
15 0.90 tenth octave; 1%, 3% or 10% of the selected
20 1.00 frequency; or 3 Hz, 10 Hz or 50 Hz.
25 1.12 13.2.4 A suitable wind screen may be used
30 1.25 where the air velocity due to winds, prevailing
35 1.40 drafts, or microphone locations in the proximity
40 1.55 of fans causes the reading to be in error. Suitable
45 1.75 corrections, when necessary, shall be made for
50 1.95 readings with wind screens to ensure that only
55 2.18 wind noise effects are negated.
60 2.42
65 2.70
70 3.00 13.3 Test Conditions
13.3.1 Measurements shall be performed in a n
environment having a n ambient level at least
5 dB, but preferably 10 dB or more, below the
combined level of transformer and ambient for
13. Audible Sound Tests the frequency band in which measurements are
being made.
13.1 General. The audible sound generated in- The ambient level shall be established by av-
ternal to a transformer is composed of discrete eraging measurements performed immediately

48
 ANSI / IEEE
DISTRIBUTION, POWER, AND REGULATING TRANSFORMERS C57.12.90-1987

preceding and immediately following the trans- Where ambient conditions do not comply with
former tests, for at least four microphone loca- the foregoing, suitable corrections may be fea-
tions spaced equally around the transformer. sible with steady ambient conditions. The details
For a n average ambient level 5 dB or more below and method of making such ambient corrections
the combined level of transformer and ambient, shall be agreed upon by those responsible for the
the following. correction shall be applied: design and application of the transformer.
Where the difference is less than 5 dB and it
Difference in decibels Correction in decibels
is only desired to know a level the transformer
between the average to be applied to
does not exceed, a correction of - 1.6 dB may be
level of combined average level of
used.
transformer and combined transformer
13.3.2 The transformer shall be located so that
ambient and and ambient to
no acoustically reflecting surface is within 10 f t
average level of obtain average level
(3.0 m) of the transformer, other than the floor
ambient of transformer
or ground.
5 1.6- 13.3.3 The transformer shall be connected for,
6 1.3- and energized at, rated voltage, frequency, and
7 - 1.0 at no load. Noise contributing elements of the
8 - 0.8 transformer, such as pumps and fans, shall be
9 - 0.6 operating as appropriate for the rating being
10 -0.4 tested. When it is impractical or undesirable to
Over 10 -0.0 include the appropriate cooling equipment, the
Ambient corrections shall be governed by av- self-cooled sound level may be corrected for cool-
erage level measurements made with identical ing noise contribution, when suitable corrections
frequency bandwidths for the combined trans- are available and it is mutually agreeable to
former and ambient and the ambient alone. those concerned.

Fig 30
Determination of Microphone Locations for Measurement of
Audible Sound for Liquid-Immersed Transformers

MICROPHONE
S T A T IONS

NATURAL AIR TANK BOX

COOL ING

M A J O R SOUND
PRODUCING S U R F A C E
ANSI / IEEE
C57.12.90-1987
13.4 Microphone Positions
13.4.1 The reference sound-producing surface
of a transformer is a vertical surface that follows
the contour of a taut string stretched around the
periphery of the transformer or integral enclo-
sure. This contour is to include radiators, cool-
ers, tubes, switch compartments, terminal
chambers, etc, but excludes bushings and minor
extensions such as valves, oil gauges, thermom-
eters, conduit terminal boxes, and projections at
or above cover height.
In consideration of safety and consistency of
measurement, the reference sound-producing
surface near unenclosed live parts of field as-
sembled items, such as switches, switchgear and
terminal compartments or wall mounted bush-
ings, SFe air-to-oil adapter bushings, etc, shall
be moved outwards from the taut string contour
to be consistent with safe worker clearances as
determined by the manufacturer for the voltage
class of the live parts termination involved.
The first microphone location point shall co-
incide (see Fig 30) with the main drain valve.
Additional points shall be located at 3 f t
(0.91 m) intervals, proceeding clockwise in a hor-
izontal direction as viewed from above, along the
reference sound-producing surface defined in
13.4.1.
There shall be no fewer than four microphone
location points, which may result in intervals of
less than 3 f t (0.91 m) for small transformers.
The microphone shall be located on a straight
line perpendicular to the reference sound-pro-
ducing surface at each microphone location
point. The microphone shall be spaced 1 ft
(0.30 m) from the reference sound-producingsur-
face, except that when fans are in operation the
microphone shall be spaced 6 f t (1.83 m) from
any portion of the transformer radiators, cool-
ers, or cooling tubes cooled by forced air.
13.4.2 For transformers having an overall
tank or enclosure height of less than 8 f t (2.4 m)
measurements shall be made at half height. For
transformers having an overall tank or enclo-
sure height of 8 f t (2.4 m>or more, measurements
shall be made at one-third and two-thirds height.
13.5 Sound-Level Measurements
13.5.1 Sound levels shall be measured in con-
formance with 13.2.1, 13.3, and 13.4 using the
sound-level meter A-weighting characteristic.
13.5.2 The average A-weighted sound-level is
defined as the arithmetic mean of the respective
50
IEEE STANDARD TEST CODE FOR LIQUID-IMMERSED
A-weighted sound-level measurements taken at
each microphone location defined in 13.4. -
13.5.3 When specified, measurements shall
also be taken using the sound-level meter C-
weighting characteristic.
13.5.4 When ambient conditions necessitate,
the sound level may be measured using discrete
frequency components (see 13.6.4).
NOTE: For a discrete frequency application, see [34].
13.6 Optional Frequency Analysis Measure-
ments
13.6.1 When specified, frequency analyses
shall be made in accordance with 13.2,13.3, and
13.4 for either octave, one-third octave, or dis-
crete frequency measurements. Either the A-
weighting, the C-weighting, or the flat response
meter characteristic may be used. The weighting
characteristic used shall be reported with the
data.
13.6.2 Octave band or one-third octave band
frequency analyses measurements shall cover
the interval of midband frequencies from 63 Hz
through 4000 Hz, inclusive. Discrete frequency
analysis measurements shall cover the funda-
mental through the 7th harmonic component
(fundamental component is twice the excitation
frequency).
13.6.3 The average level for each frequency
band measured shall be determined by taking
the power average of the individual readings
about the transformer. Thus
L, = 10 loglo
(: i=l
10Li;O) - dB (Eq 25)
where
L, = average level for the x frequency band
Li = level in the x frequency band a t the ith
measurement point
n = total number of measurement points
When the components are with A-weighting,
the average is then with A-weighting.
13.6.4 When the average sound level, dB (A)
as defined in 13.5.2, is to be determined from
the individual A-weighted frequency band mea-
surements at each microphone position, then an
A-weighted sound level shall be calculated for
each microphone position from the band mea-
surements as follows:
 ANSI / IEEE
DISTRIBUTION, POWER, AND REGULATING TRANSFORMERS C57.12.90-1987

where When specified, efficiency shall be calculated

LA = average calculated A-weighted sound
level
Lj = bandlevel with A-weighting for the jth
band
n = total number of bands
Finally, the average sound level, dB (A), shall
be determined as the arithmetic mean of the
values of LA for all the microphone locations.
14. Calculated Data
14.1 Reference Temperature. The reference
temperature for determining total losses, volt-
age regulation, and efficiency shall be equal to
the sum of the rated average winding temper-
ature rise by resistance plus 20 "C.
14.2 Losses and Excitation Current
14.2.1 Determination of No-Load Losses
and Exciting Current. No-load losses and ex-
citing current shall be determined for the rated
voltage and frequency on a sine-wave bas: un-7s
less a different form is inherent in the operation
of the transformer.
14.2.2 Load Losses. Load losses shall be de-
termined for rated voltage, current, and fre-
quency and shall be corrected to the reference
temperature.
14.2.3 Total Losses. Total losses are the sum
of the no-load losses and the load losses.
on the basis of the reference temperature for the
average winding temperature rise of the trans-
former.
14.4 Voltage Regulation of a Constant-Volt-
age Transformer
14.4.1 General. The voltage regulation of a
constant-voltage transformer is defined in
ANSI/IEEE C57.12.80-1978 (R 1986) [MI. The
regulation may be expressed in percentage (or
per unit) on the basis of the rated secondary
voltage at full load.
14.4.2 Reference Temperature. When spec-
ified, voltage regulation calculations shall be
based on the reference temperature of 14.1.1.
14.4.3 Load Loss Watts and Impedance
Volts. The load loss watts and impedance volts
for use in the computation of voltage regulation
are those that result from the measurement of
9.2 corrected to reference temperature as shown
in 9.4.
14.4.4 Voltage Regulation Computation,
Two-Winding Transformers. When specified,
the voltage regulation shall be computed as fol-
lows:
14.4.4.1 Exact Formulae for the Calcu-
lation of Regulation. The exact formulae are
as follows:
(1)When the load is lagging:
reg = d ( R + Fp)2 + ( X + q ) 2 - 1
(2) When the load is leading:

14.3 Efficiency. The efficiency of a transformer reg = J(R + Fp)2 + ( X - q ) 2 -1 (Eq28)

is the ratio of its useful power output to its total
power input. where
Fp = power factor of load
Po Pi - PL 4=+J1_F,2
v = - =Pi- Pi
R = resistance factor of transformer
-
-
impedance loss in kilowatt
PL
=l-z X
rated kilovoltampere
= reactance factor of transformer

(Eq 27) = + Jn
Z = impedance factor
where -
-
impedance kilovoltampere
rated kilovoltampere
7 = efficiency
Po = output The quantities Fp, q, X, and R are on a per
Pi = input unit basis, so the result must be multiplied by
PL = losses 100 to obtain the regulation in percentage.

51
ANSI / IEEE
C57.12.90-1987 IEEE STANDARD TEST CODE FOR LIQUID-IMMERSED

14.4.4.2 General Expression for Calcu- X = reactance factor = + Jn

lation of Transformer Regulation. A general + = impedance angle of transformer
expression for the calculation of transformer impedance
regulation that permits calculations to any de-
gree of precision justified by the supporting data cos + = R-z
is
Fp = power factor of load cos 8
reg = a - 1 a2
- + -1 a3 - a4 8 = phase angle of load current;
2 2 positive for leading current,
7 21 33 negative for lagging current
+ -a5 - -a6
8 16
+-a
16
7
(Eq 29)

where
14.4.4.3 Three-phase to Two-Phase
reg = regulation on a per unit basis
Transformers. For the calculation of the reg-
a = a quantity depending upon the angle
ulation for three-phase to two-phase transfor-
and magnitude of the transformer
mation, proceed as follows:
impedance, the power factor of the load,
and the number of windings in the (1) For the per unit regulation of main phase,
use the impedance of the main transformer for
transformer
substitution in the formula selected for use.
The quantity a for the calculation of the per (2) For the per unit regulation of the teaser
unit regulation of a two-winding transformer is phase, use the sum of the impedance of the
determined as follows: teaser transformer plus the interlacing imped-
ance of the main transformer for substitution in
a = Z cos (+ + 8) + z2
-
2
(Eq 30) the formula selected for use.
(3) To determine the interlacing impedance,
where connect the two ends of the three-phase winding
R = resistance factor of the main transformer together and impress
between this common connection and the 50%
-
-
impedance loss, kilowatt tap a voltage sufficient to pass three-phase line
rated kilovoltampere current in the supply lines.
Z = impedance factor (4) The voltage thus determined is the inter-
lacing impedance voltage and is to be put on a
-
-
impedance kilovolt ampere per unit basis by reference to the rated voltage
rated kilovoltampere of the teaser transformer on the 86.6% tap.

52
 ANSI / IEEE
DISTRIBUTION, POWER, AND REGULATING TRANSFORMERS C57.12.90-1987

Appendix to Part I
Minimum Information to be Included in Certified Test Data

(This Appendix is not a part of ANSI/IEEE C57.12.90-1987, IEEE Standard Test Code for Liquid-Immersed Distribution,
Power, and Regulating Transformers, and IEEE Guide for Short-circuit Testing of Distribution and Power Transformers, but
is included for information only.)

(1)Order Data purchaser

purchasers order number
manufacturers requisition number
data of test
( 2 ) Rating Data cooling class
number of phases
frequency
insulation medium
temperature rise
polarity
winding ratings: volt, kilovoltampere
(3) Test Data (by individual serial number)
winding resistances
losses: no-load, load, total
impedance (ANSI/ IEEE (357.12.00-1987 [171, 8.3.2.2
for LTC transformers)
temperature rise
applied voltage test
induced voltage test
impulse test data per ANSI/IEEE C57.98-1986 [20]
(when specified)
sound level tests (when specified)
(4) Calculated Data correction of resistances and losses to standard
temperature basis
regulation (when specified)
(5) Certification statement and approval
NOTE: All reported data should be corrected to standard temperature.

53
 ANSI/IEEE C57.12.90-1987
(Revision of ANSI / IEEE C57.12.90-1980)

Part I1

A n American National Standard

IEEE Guide for Short-circuit Testing of
Distribution and Power Transformers

Sponsor
Transformers Committee of the
IEEE Power Engineering Society

Approved J u n e 13, 1985, Part I1

IEEE Standards Board

Secretariat
Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers
National Electrical Manufacturers Association

Approved March 18, 1987

American National Standards Institute

55
 Part I1
An American National Standard
IEEE Guide for Short-circuit Testing of
Distribution and Power Transformers
1. Scope
This test guide describes testing techniques
and methods of analysis of the results for staged
short-circuit tests of distribution and power
transformers 5 kVA and above.
The procedures described in this guide are in-
tended to apply to short-circuit testing of new
transformers a t manufacturers test facilities;
however, where available test facility power is
limited or other factors are involved, field test-
ing may be acceptable where adequate facilities
are available. It is imperative for field tests of
transformer design adequacy that test condi-
tions be negotiated by those responsible for the
application and for the design of the trans-
former.
2. Short-circuit Testing Techniques
2.1 Fault Application
2.1.1 Two-Winding Transformers. The
short circuit may be applied on the trans-
formers primary or secondary winding termi-
nals; however, the secondary short-circuiting
method is preferred since it most closely rep-
resents the typical condition during faults.
To obtain the test current and maintain the
transformer terminal voltage during testing, the
supply voltage may be higher than the rated
voltage of the windings being supplied (or of the
specified tap for transformers with tappings).
The short circuiting of the winding may either
follow or precede the application of the supply
57
voltage to the other winding of the transformer.
When short circuiting follows the application of
the supply voltage, the supply voltage should not
exceed 1.10 times the rated voltage of the wind-
ing (or tapping) unless otherwise approved by
those responsible for the design of the trans-
former.
When the short circuiting of the winding for
transformers with single concentric windings
precedes the application of the supply voltage
(preset method), the transformer winding far-
thest from the core should usually be connected
to the supply. This will avoid possible saturation
of the core and the magnetizing inrush current
superimposed on the short-circuit current dur-
ing the first few cycles. For shell-type trans-
formers, or core-type transformers with double
concentric windings, the preset test method
should be used based upon negotiation by those
responsible for the application and for the design
of the transformer.
2.1.2 Multiwinding Transformers. For
transformers with more than two windings, or
autotransformers with tertiary or regulating
windings, the test conditions for fault applica-
tion will be subject to negotiations between those
responsible for the application and for the design
of the transformers.
When the primary winding is connected to the
supply, either one or both of the secondary wind-
ings or either one or both of the common or
tertiary windings for autotransformers may be
short circuited for the test.
For autotransformers with tertiary windings,
it may also be necessary to consider other fault
ANSI / IEEE
C57.12.90-1987 IEEE GUIDE FOR SHORT-CIRCUIT TESTING OF

conditions, such as single-phase- or double- short-circuit test should be in accordance with

phase-to-ground faults with either the common ANSI / IEEE C57.12.00-1987 [17], Section 7.
or series, or both, as the source(s) of supply.
2.4 Number of Tests. Each phase of the trans-
former shall be subjected to the number of tests
2.2 Test Connections. specified in Part I, 12.3.4 of this standard.
2.2.1 Three-phase Test. For three-phase
two-winding transformers, a three-phase power
2.5 Calibration Tests
supply is preferred. Depending upon the inter-
2.5.1 Condition of Transformer to be
nal transformer connections, the preferred con-
Tested. The transformer to be tested should
nections for testing are shown in Fig 1.
have received the standard factory routine tests
For three-phase multiwinding transformers, it
in accordance with ANSI / IEEE C57.12.00-1987
may be required to perform both three-phase
[17] and Part I of this standard. In addition,
and single-phase short circuits to ensure that all
impedance measurements on several taps shall
significant winding conditions and connections
be made. Prior to testing, a satisfactory internal
have been investigated subject to negotiations
condition of the transformer should be estab-
between those responsible for the application
lished. Untanking or internal inspections may
and for the design of the transformer. Typical
be required.
connections are shown in Fig 1.
2.5.2 Instrumentation. All oscillographic
The transformer tank, the neutral of auto-
current and voltage inputs, conventional or spe-
transformers, and the neutral of Y-connected
cial relaying and protection, and other special
transformers, when available and suitable,
oscillographic inputs or event records should be
should be grounded. Current monitoring of the
calibrated and documented prior to transformer
ground connection is recommended.
testing. When low-voltage impulse measure-
2.2.2 Single-phase Test
ments are to be made, calibration should be in
2.2.2.1 Three-phase Transformers. Three-
accordance with Section 3.
phase transformers may be tested from a single-
2.5.3 Synchronous Timing. To ensure con-
phase supply in those instances where a three-
trol of current asymmetry at time of trans-
phase supply of sufficient capacity is not avail-
former short-circuit initiation, the closing
able. The three-phase fault connections can be
circuit breaker or device should be timed for
simulated with a single-phase power supply.
calibration purposes prior to each test. In some
Test connections for the various internal wind-
cases, it may only be necessary to make this
ing connections and methods are given in Fig 2.
synchronous timing check prior to the first test.
The connections shown apply both to Y-con-
In most cases, control of the closing angle within
nected windings with the neutral either avail-
215 from the zero point on the voltage wave
able or not available.
will produce satisfactory results and maximum
When the neutral point is not available, the
asymmetry .
insulation level of the neutral should be consid-
2.5.4 Fault-Current Control. For factory
ered before proceeding with the short-circuit
testing it is usual to make 3 calibration and
test.
timing test with approximately 50% of the sup-
For Y-connected windings where the neutral
ply voltage necessary to produce the required
is available, single-phase tests between the link
short-circuit current. For field tests, this Cali-
end terminal and the neutral may be acceptable,
bration test a t reduced supply voltage and fault
subject to agreement between those responsible
current is made in most cases by transformer
for the application and for the design of the
tap changing control of the supply voltage or
transformer.
system bus and line arrangements, or both, to
2.2.2.2 Single-phase Transformers. Sin-
reduce available short-circuit duty. A reduction
gle-phase transformers should be tested with a
of the required fault current is normally pre-
single-phase supply voltage that should not ex-
ferred for calibration purposes.
ceed 1.10 times the rated voltage of the winding
In addition to fault closing angle, initial fault
(or tapping) unless otherwise approved by those
current magnitude is a function of supply volt-
responsible for the design of the transformer.
age, total circuit impedance, and circuit X / R
ratio. Usual methods for fault-current control in
2.3 Duration of Test. The duration of each factory or field testing include adjustment of one

58
 ANSI / IEEE
DISTRIBUTION AND POWER TRANSFORMERS C57.12.90-1987

-
-
r - - - - - - - -1
HV -

L -TRANSFORMER
---_- _UNDER
_ TEST- -1
SUPPLY
-
(4

TRANSFORMER UNDER TEST

SUPPLY L---- ----___ _J
- -
(b)

+ 1

I---------
:

, o -
SUPPLY
1
L--- ---_--
TRANSFORMER UNDER TEST

(e)
-1
-

Fig 1
Typical Test Connections for Three-phase Test
(a) Y-A Connection (b) Y-Y Connection
( c ) A-Y Connection (d) A-A Connection

59
ANSI / IEEE
C57.12.90-1987 IEEE GUIDE FOR SHORT-CIRCUITTESTING OF

IW
O O

-----
I
nt HV

SUPPLY
'L -
'

TRANSFORMER UNDER
3 S L --
(f)

Fig 1
Typical Test Connections for Three-phase Test
(e) Autotransformer Connection (Two-Winding)
(f) A-Y-Y Connection

or more of the following test circuit parameters
and equipment:
(1)Supply voltage control with voltage regu-
lators or transformer no-load and load tap
changers
(2) Available test circuit short-circuit capacity
by generator, bus and line arrangements, and
connections.
(3) Control of fault initiation with respect to
supply voltage closing angle
(4) Insertion of additional resistance to com-
pensate total circuit reactance
(5) Special choice of transformer fault con-
nections or test circuit neutral grounding
2.6 Voltage and Current Measurements
2.6.1 Voltage Measurement. Oscillographic
voltage measurements on the source side of the
transformer under test are required for maxi-
mum information since the low side voltage will
be zero. The preferred method of measurement
is to use potential transformers of suitable ratio
coupled to oscillographic recording devices. Po-
tential transformers should be connected line-

60
 ANSI / IEEE
DISTRIBUTION AND POWER TRANSFORMERS C57.12.90-1987

"s2 E L - L

$
SUPPLY

n n

cn
0

SUPPLY IL _ _TRANSFORMER
_ _ _ _ _UNDER
_ _ _TEST
_ _ _ _J
(c)
' L

SUPPLY
L_ _ TRANSFORMER
_ _ _ _ _UNDER
_ _ TEST
____ J

Fig 2
Typical Simulated Three-phase Fault with
Single-phase Supply
(a) Y-A Connection (b) Y-Y Connection
( c )A-Y Connection (d) A-A Connection

61
ANSI / IEEE
C57.12.90-1987
to-line for three-phase tests on transformers
with A-connected primary windings and line-to-
neutral for transformers with Y-connected pri-
mary windings where the neutral is accessible.
When the neutral of the Y-connected winding
is grounded or for single-phase tests with one
line grounded, capacitance resistance dividers
suitably coupled to oscillographic recording de-
vices are satisfactory for these voltage measure-
ments. In all cases, calibration of the
oscillographic trace of the voltage should have
a minimum accuracy of 25%.
When the short circuit is applied to a previ-
ously energized transformer, the voltage mea-
surement should be made as close as possible to
the primary terminals of the transformer being
tested. When available test power limitations
require that power must be applied to the pre-
viously shorted transformer, and the voltage
measurement should be made on the source side
of the primary circuit breaker.
2.6.2 Current Measurements
2.6.2.1 General. For maximum data, oscil-
lographic current measurements are required
for each phase of the transformer being tested.
The preferred method is to use current trans-
formers of suitable ratio coupled to oscillo-
graphic recording devices. When current
measurements can be made on the grounded
secondary side of the transformer and for single-
phase tests with one line grounded, current
shunts may be used to measure the phase cur-
Fig 3
Typical Connections of Potential Transformers,
-
Current Transformers and Current Shunts to Oscillographic Recording Devices
PT - r - - - - - - - - 1
+-
SUPPLY
1 \ 1 I
2 I TRANSFORMER UNDER TEST
62
IEEE GUIDE FOR SHORT-CIRCUIT TESTING OF
rents. The connection from the current trans-
former secondary or shunt to the coupling and
recording devices should be with shielded coax-
ial cable.
For direct information, the current measure-
ments for establishing test current magnitude
are normally made in the phase lines of the Y-
connected winding for the transformer being
tested. When this winding is connected to the
energy source, phase currents are measured di-
rectly. When the Y winding is the secondary
winding, it is necessary to convert to the source
winding by the inverse transformer turns ratio.
During short-circuit tests it is recommended
that the tank of the transformer under test be
connected to ground through a current moni-
toring device. Either a current transformer or
a current shunt coupled to an oscillographic de-
vice may be used. The current monitor should
be sized to correspond to the short-circuit pri-
mary line amperes. See Fig 3.
In all cases, whether the current measure-
ment is made by use of current transformers or
current shunts, calibration of the oscillographic
trace of the current should have a minimum
accuracy of 2 5%.
2.6.2.2 Short-circuit Test by Shorting a
Previously Energized Transformer. This is
the preferred condition and current measure-
ments can be made as described in 2.6.2.1.
When both windings of the transformer are
A-connected, direct measurement of the phase
\
-
I CT Lz
0
CURRENT
SHUNT OR CT

DISTRIBUTION AND POWER TRANSFORMERS
currents cannot be made unless the transformer
under test is provided with an internal current
transformer of suitable ratio for the test. When
no internal current transformers are provided,
the line currents are monitored in the usual
manner and dependence is made on the mea-
sured symmetrical current and the time of fault
application for the instant that produces the
maximum peak asymmetrical current in the re-
quired phase winding. Maximum peak asym-
metry is obtained when the short circuit is
initiated at the zero point on the voltage wave.
2.6.2.3 Short-circuit Test by Applying
Voltage to a Previously Short-circuited
Transformer. When the test is performed in
this manner, portions of the transformer mag-
netic circuit will normally saturate. When sat-
uration occurs, the excitation current required
for the necessary flux may be greater than nor-
mal. This has the effect of lowering the imped-
ance as seen from the excited side and a
consequent increase in current in the excited
winding. For this reason it is recommended that
all currents under this condition of test be mon-
itored on the source side of the transformer
Fig 4
Oscillograph Record of
Fault Current Distortion
TEST TRANSFORMER NO 4
OSCILLOGRAPH RECORD OF TEST NO 2
FAULT CURRENT DISTORTION
63
ANSI / IEEE
C57.12.90-1987
being tested. For all transformers with A-con-
nected primary windings and no internal cur-
rent transformers, the symmetrical and
asymmetrical currents should be determined as
for the A - A connection described in 2.6.2.2.
To minimize or eliminate core saturation in
core-type transformers the following precau-
tions can be taken:
(1) Energize the outside winding and short cir-
cuit the winding next to the core (see 2.1.1).
(2) Bias the core with a remanent flux that
simulates the normal operating flux condition
in the core at the time of fault application.
(3) A less desirable alternative is to demag-
netize the core before each test.
3. Failure Detection Techniques
3.1 Voltage and Current Waveshapes. Ab-
rupt changes in the waveshape of either current
or voltage during the test indicate a n internal
electrical failure. Figure 4 shows a definite cur-
ANSI / IEEE
C57.12.90-1987
rent magnitude and waveshape change two
cycles after fault initiation, which resulted from
shorted turns.
It is, however, possible for shorted turns to
develop without any detectable change in
waveshape; the absence of changes should,
therefore, not be considered, per se, as evidence
of a successful test.
3.2 Leakage Impedance. Acceptable repeata-
bility is a function of the allowable variation
specified by the test code. For the best results,
digital instruments in a temperature-controlled
environment can achieve repeatability within
0.1%. It is essential that the 60 Hz measuring
source waveform be the same for each imped-
ance test.
Inductive bridge measurements have been
found acceptable in many cases.
When impedance changes occur, possible
winding movement can be better evaluated by
making measurements from both high and low
sides. Increase of impedance measured from
both directions is a n indication of winding de-
formation on that leg.
It is important that the single-phase imped-
ance measurements include only the windings
on that leg. When the impedances of different
legs are measured in parallel, separate winding
impedance can only be determined by calcula-
tions.
3.3 Excitation Current. Rated voltage excita-
tion current tests are recommended, when prac-
tical. Low-voltage excitation current tests may
be made, but remanent flux in the core may
Fig 6
Single-phase Transformer Test Circuits
64
IEEE GUIDE FOR SHORT-CIRCUIT TESTING OF
A P P L I E D IMPULSE
I
/ ,APPLIED
IMPULSE 4
Fig 5
Differential Test Circuits
make the results undependable. Demagnetiza-
tion may be necessary to produce acceptable re-
sults.
3.4 Low-Voltage Impulse (LVI) Testing. The
low-voltage impulse method of detecting trans-
former movement uses a recurrent surge gen-
erator to apply a voltage pulse to one or more
terminals of a transformer while recording the
current response at one or more terminals.
Changes in interturn capacitances produced by
conductor deformation are reflected in the
waveshape of terminal currents. Differential
current methods have proven to be most sensi-
tive for detecting winding movement and are
recommended.
Interpretation of the changes of the oscillo-
graphic records is largely a matter of experience,
aided by a knowledge of the winding arrange-
ment of the transformer. Some knowledge of the
 ANSI / IEEE
DISTRIBUTION AND POWER TRANSFORMERS C57.12.90-1987

Sweep Speed 1.0 ps/cm Sweep Speed 1.O p s / c m

Input Trace ( 5 ) Sensitivity 400 V / c m ,
Rise and Fall 0.05 ps

Sweep Speed 2.0 ps/cm

Input Trace ( 5 ) Sensitivity 400 V / c m , Sweep Speed 1 (4)5 ps/cm, ( 5 ) 1 ps/cm
Pulse Width 0.50 p s
O u t p u t Traces Sensitivity I n p u t Pulse Width
O u t p u t Traces Sensitivity I n p u t Pulse Rise a n d Fall
1 40 V/cm 0.25 p s
1 40 V/cm 0.025 ps 2 40 V/cm 0.50 p s
2 40 V/cm 0.050 ps 3 200 V / c m 2.50 p s
3 40 V/cm 0.100 ps 4 200 V / c m 25.00 p s
4 40 V/cm 0.250 ps

Fig 7 Fig 8
Effect of Varying Rise Time Effect of Varying Pulse Width
on Output Waveforms

transformer winding type, interconnection of flowing to earth from simultaneously impulsed

coils, and conductor length is desirable to aid in
analysis of changes in the low-voltage-impulse
oscillograms. Some changes in oscillograms dur-
ing testing may be experienced without coil-
winding damage occurring.
Circuits .such as that of Figs 5 and 6 in which
the difference is measured between the currents
two-phase windings a r e recommended.
3.4.1 Test Equipment. A list of the equip-
ment used for this test is as follows:
3.4.1.1 Recurrent Surge Generator.Com-
mercially available surge generators have much
higher power capabilities than are required for
LVI testing. For example, a pulse output of

65
ANSI / IEEE
C57.12.90-1987 IEEE GUIDE FOR SHORT-CIRCUIT TESTING OF

-------
S H I E L D E D TEST T R A I L E R
--- --
TRANSFORMER UNDER TEST

D U A L B E A M OSCILLOSCOPE SERIES 2551

SHORT AS PRACTICAL

C TRIAXIAL L E A D WiOUTER
------ -- Alo SHIELD GROUNDEDAS
SHOWN
I
@ 200 I DIVIDER 5 2 0 0 0 INPUT

0 5 0 0 S H U N T TERMINATION

Fig 9
Calibration Connection for Y Windings

1000 V with a 0.50 ps width and a repetition rate
of 100 pulses per second into a 50 R load is equal
to 1 WIS.
3.4.1.1.1 Rise and Fall Time. Rise times
of 5 0 n s to 1000ns appear to be adequate, al-
though the slower front is easier to record with-
out excess reflection. Figure 7 shows the effect
of varying rise time on output waveforms.
3.4.1.1.2 Pulse Width. Pulse widths of
200ns to 1000ns will optimize the generator
requirement. The requirement for pulse width
is that the tail of the pulse should have decayed
before the first reflections return, so that close
in damage is not obscured by pulse tail. Figure
8 shows the effect of varying pulse width.
3.4.1.1.3 Pulse Rate. A pulse rate of 60
pulses to 100 pulses per second will be adequate
for most tests.
3.4.1.1.4 Voltage. The magnitude of the
voltage pulse must be high enough to obtain a
significant received signal. Generator voltages
of 300V to 500V are recommended to obtain
the desired sensitivity.
3.4.1.2 Signal Transmission. A typical sig-
nal transmission system is described below. Var-
iations in this scheme are quite possible, but the
principles described below should be followed.
3.4.1.2.1 Cables. While coaxial cable can
be used, it is recommended that a triaxial cable,
(that is, a coaxial cable with a n additional shield
to reduce external pickup) be used (see Figs 10
and 11). Figure 12 shows a triax-coax connection
block that has been used where cable combi-
nations were necessary.
The use of triaxial cable is considered essential
to successful instrumentation. Both the signal
and recording cables must be terminated in their
characteristic impedance to minimize cable re-
flections. It is very important that all cable fit-
tings be carefully assembled and that lead

66

DISTRIBUTION AND POWER TRANSFORMERS
-------
SHIELDED TEST TRAILER
D U A L B E A M OSCILLOSCOPE
SHORT A S P R A C T I C A L
BOXES W/ONE COMMON
-- - -
@ 5 0 4 SHUNTTERMINATION
Fig 10
Test Connections for Y Windings
connections b kept dry nd tight. Instrumen-
tation problems are most often traced to a poor
or broken cable connection.
3.4.1.2.2 Coaxial Ground Cage. The
coaxial ground cage (Fig 13) is installed around
the bushing. This permits low inductance con-
nection of generator and shunts to bushing ter-
minals. Exact positioning of leads on the test
transformer is not critical with this component.
The coaxial connection to the bushings reduces
direct stray couplings into the measuring circuit.
Without the ground cage, personnel remaining
on the transformer during LVI testing cause
changes in capacitance and thus in LVI records.
The cage will improve measuring sensitivity by
one order of magnitude over single lead connec-
tions for a typical 115 kV winding. The need for
such a cage is much less for a 12.47 kV winding.
3.4.1.2.3 Shunts. Shunts must be of non-
inductive resistors and of adequate wattage to
withstand pulse generation voltage continu-
ously.
67
ANSI / IEEE
C57 12.90-1987
--- --
TRANSFORMER UNDER TEST
TRANSFORMER
3.4.1.2.4 Verification Circuit. A verifi-
cation circuit similar to Fig 9 can be extremely
valuable. Such a circuit will permit calibration
and comparison of amplifiers, cabling, dividers,
and shunts; that is, the total instrumentation
package. Two resistors, of the order of 60000
and 5000 R, are connected in place of the trans-
former windings. The parallel resistance value
must be high enough to have a minimum effect
on the cable and terminating impedance. Initial
tests include pulsing the dummy winding circuit
temporarily mounted on top of the transformer.
When any change occurs in the test oscillo-
grams, the external measuring circuit to the
transformer may be rechecked by pulsing the
dummy winding to verify that changes are not
in instrumentation.
3.4.1.3 Oscilloscope. The choice of oscillo-
scope depends on the sensitivity required. A dual
channel instrument is required having a 10 MHz
bandwidth and 3 5 n s rise time. One channel
must be able to have its polarity inverted so that
ANSI / IEEE
C57.12.90-1987
------- 1
SHIELDED TEST TRAILER
D U A L B E A M OSCILLOSCOPE
W/DIFFERENTlAL AMPLIFIER
FRAME
Fig 11
Test Connections for A Windings
both channels can be combined for differential
response tests.
The horizontal time base should allow sweep
speeds to 0.5 ps /division.
3.4.1.4 Constant Voltage Transformer. A
regulated voltage source with a 60 cycle sinu-
soidal output will aid LVI repeatability.
3.4.1.5 Camera. Provision should be made
for photographing the oscilloscope screen. The
camera should be adjusted to provide a constant
picture size if overlay of negatives is to be done;
otherwise, no special features are required. In
taking pictures it is to be noted that this type
of film is relatively slow. For the 0.5 p s l c m
sweep pictures, a 6 s to 10 s exposure is usually
required, with normal beam intensity and the f
stop adjusted to give a sharp picture.
NOTE: Polaroid 4 in x 5 in type 55 P / N film has been
found suitable for photographing the oscilloscope screen.
3.4.2 Test Connections. Both the primary
and secondary windings should be tested to ob-
tain maximum information. When the time
68
IEEE GUIDE FOR SHORT-CIRCUIT TESTING OF
r-------
TRANSFORMER UNDER TEST
available for the LVI test between short-circuit
tests is limited, the secondary (inner) windings
only may be tested. The LVI test of the outer
winding may be delayed to the completion of all
short-circuit tests.
3.4.2.1 Three-phase Transformer. Fig-
ures 10 and 11 show suggested connections to Y
and A windings.
3.4.2.2 Single-phaseTransformer. Figure
6 (a)shows the suggested connection to a single-
phase transformer. The applied pulse is con-
nected between one line terminal and ground.
The ground current of the winding is then
measured by recording the voltage across the
resistor. Figure 6 (b) shows a differential mea-
surement of one single-phase unit. Differential
measurements similar to three-phase unit LVI
tests can be made if two or three single-phase
identical units are available.
3.5 Visual Inspection. Visual inspection of the
core and coils for movement of conductors or
insulation, which could impair operation of the
ANSI / IEEE
C57.12.90-1987
transformer, will normally require untanking.
Some types of damage to inner windings may
not be detected by visual inspection. Any visible
movement should be evaluated for its effect on
the functional capability of the transformer.
3.6 Dielectric Tests. Following all short-circuit
tests, a full set of standard production and other
specified dielectric tests (see ANSI / IEEE
C57.12.00-1987 [17]) should be performed at the
appropriate test levels. It may not be possible to
make complete dielectric tests in the field. Ne-
gotiations between those responsible for the ap-
plication and for the design regarding test levels
and test techniques are suggested.
4. Analysis of Test Results
4.1 Terminal Measurements
4.1.1 Current and Voltage Changes. Any
increase or unusual variations greater than 5%
in the current magnitude as determined from
the current oscillogram, either during the asym-
metrical or symmetrical period, is a potential
indication of an internal electrical or mechani-
cal failure.
External flashovers are usually visible and
should be investigated before proceeding with
further tests. Unusual changes in the magnitude
or waveform as shown on the current oscillo-
gram during the asymmetrical current flow may
be a n indication of core saturation of a n im-
properly sized measuring current transformer.
Current magnitude increases insufficient to op-
erate the circuit backup protective relays and
not attributable to external circuit conditions
indicate a partial-winding insulation break-
down, abnormal ground in the winding assem-
bly, partial flashovers or internal discharges,
etc. Additional routine electrical tests, such as
ratio, impedance, core loss, and insulation re-
sistance may be necessary for nondisruptive,
partial, or intermittent failures.
An internal core and winding inspection will
usually detect electrical failure locations or me-
chanical deficiencies.
Transformer impedance changes, voltage reg-
ulation of the supply or system testing source,
and conductor heating will, to some extent,
cause magnitude reductions on the current os-
cillograms. In most cases, reduced current mag-
nitudes, particularly following the decrement
period for the fault current flow, establishes the
70
IEEE GUIDE FOR SHORT-CIRCUIT TESTING OF
voltage regulation of the supply circuit or the
capability to maintain constant voltage during
the fault period.
Major changes in the voltage oscillograms,
such as voltage collapse, indicate a n internal
electrical failure if not attributable to external
circuit conditions. Smaller voltage changes dur-
ing the test are usually indicative of the voltage
regulation of the supply or test circuit.
4.1.2 Leakage Impedance Changes. Leak-
age inductance should be measured between
each pair of windings after each short-circuit
test. This measurement normally is made a t
least 15 min following the short-circuit test.
While consensus is that this is not a very sen-
sitive test of short-circuit failure, increases in
inductance are a n indication of winding move-
ments. Small increases after each successive test
indicate progressive movement and may be a
prediction of a failure.
For core-type transformers with concentric
windings, small movements in a n axial direction
causes small increases in inductance, but move-
ment in the axial direction can result in trans-
former failure because of its progressive nature.
In general, axial movements increase short-cir-
cuit forces, which further increase the move-
ment finally resulting in winding collapse or
failure of the end-supporting structure. When
failure detection by low-voltage impulse testing
indicates axial movement, the transformer
should then be untanked for core and coil in-
spection.
For core-type transformers with concentric
windings, small movements in the radial direc-
tion, while causing a n increase in inductance,
may not be of serious consequence. This is par-
ticularly true of noncircular windings on a rec-
tangular core form. In this case, the flat side of
the outer winding tends to bulge outward and
those of the inner winding tend to move inward
toward the core. This radial movement may
cause a large change in inductance which, in the
general case, may not be critical to the service
life of the transformer. For this reason a larger
impedance variation during short-circuit testing
is permitted for this type of transformer con-
struction.
While changes in impedance are permitted
under the test code, any change in impedance
is acceptable only when the integrity of the in-
sulation system is maintained. For this reason,
it is recommended that complete dielectric tests,
including impulse tests, be made on trans-

DISTRIBUTION AND POWER TRANSFORMERS
formers with impedance changes approaching
the limits of the test code.
4.1.3 Excitation Current Changes. Exciting
current tests should be made at rated voltage
but can be made at reduced voltages when the
core is demagnetized before each reduced volt-
age test. The purpose of this test is to detect
shorts between turns or layers of a winding. In
the case of windings with multiple strands, it
may detect shorts between different strands of
different turns.
Any decrease in exciting current is not con-
sidered significant and is probably due to a re-
duction of mechanical strains in the core during
the test. Any turn short or short between layers
in power transformer windings will cause a n
increase in exciting current for that leg of the
core much greater than the 5% permitted by the
test code; however, distribution transformers
with wound-type cores may experience increases
up to 25% without impairing the function of the
transformer due to smaller distortions of the
core.
A short between different strands of different
turns in a multiple strand winding may also
increase the exciting current for that leg of the
core more than 5% and a failure is again indi-
cated. The increase in exciting current for this
case is dependent on the location of the strand
short with respect to the nearest (electrical cir-
cuit length) mass braze or connection of all
strands in that winding. A strand short will re-
sult in a circulating current in the shorted
strands determined by the volts per turn on the
core and the circuit resistance between the
strand short and the mass connections of the
strands.
In combination with reductions in exciting
current by relief of mechanical strains some
strand shorts may cause increases in exciting
current that are not detected as obvious failures.
In cases where a failure is suspected, a confir-
mation may be obtained by a comparison of core
loss before and after the short-circuit test. These
core loss tests should be made at rated voltage.
For three-phase units this comparison is best
made by comparing single-phase core losses on
each core leg with proper allowance made for
the differences in losses for each leg due to the
dissymmetry of the magnetic circuit. Core loss
for a core leg containing a strand short will usu-
ally increase by at least 25%.
4.1.4 Low-Voltage Impulse Changes. Inter-
pretation of LVI records is more a matter of
71
ANSI / IEEE
C57.12.90-1987
experience than a defined procedure; however,
there are some basic phenomena that seem to
be related to types of changes occurring within
the winding. Using a differential circuit, a large
change in magnitude seems to indicate radial
movements, while shifts in phase seem to indi-
cate that one of the legs has moved axially. Cor-
relation of this type of movement or change from
one record to another depends upon the sensi-
tivity of the test setup, and since responses are
varied between transformers, it is difficult to
establish a true base. In general, the following
criteria are then used to evaluate the possibility
of internal damage in conjunction with the other
diagnostic tests mentioned above.
(1)No LVI change occurs after short-circuit
test. Figure 14 shows five LVI records super-
imposed slightly off time scale to show that am-
plitude and phase remained constant through-
out the test.
(2) Small changes may occur in the LVI test
from before and after on the first test; however,
when no other changes occur, no internal dam-
age is indicated (see Fig 15).
(3) Small changes may occur in LVI, then re-
store its trace to the original position. Again,
this would indicate no internal damage (see
Fig 16).
(4) Small changes may occur and continue to
grow on each subsequent test (see Fig 17). In-
ternal damage is increasing and internal in-
spection is indicated.
(5) Any large change that occurs indicates in-
ternal damage and winding disassembly inspec-
tion is indicated (Figs 18 and 19). In using the
differential method, it is necessary to analyze
all three of the combination records to deter-
mine which winding was involved. Changes in
two or three windings are more difficult to sep-
arate and oscillograms of individual winding
currents are recommended to aid in determining
which windings are damaged.
Winding deformation in the radial direction
changes magnitude of the frequency components
of the LVI traces while axial changes seem to
relate to a phase shift. When major axial
changes occur, the waveform may shift to full
180".Radial changes seem to maintain the initial
frequency components, but result in amplitude
changes.
4.2 Visual Inspection
4.2.1 Coreform Transformers. Visual in-
spection can be most conveniently performed

DISTRIBUTION AND POWER TRANSFORMERS
Fig 15
Low-Voltage Impulse Changes
nostic electrical tests to limit the visual inspec-
tion of a tested transformer to the untanked unit
only. In such cases, the following items should
be thoroughly inspected.
4.2.1.1.1 Cable Leads and Bus Bars. Ca-
ble leads or bus bars, or both, should be inspected
for mechanical movement or distortion and elec-
73
ANSI / IEEE
C57.12.90-1987
trical damage. Special attention should be given
to inspecting leads from tap sections and regu-
lating windings as these leads are frequently
difficult to secure. Damage to leads emanating
from inner windings may warrant disassembly
to facilitate a more detailed inspection. The se-
curing devices for cables and bus bars, such as
ANSI / IEEE
C57.12.90-1987 IEEE GUIDE FOR SHORT-CIRCUIT TESTING OF

&4 ~~~F~~~~~~ &I 1A-9b

NOTE: Small changes occur in LVI then restore its trace to the original position; see 4.1.4(3)

Fig 16
Low-Voltage Impulse Changes

wood structures, insulators, and cloth ties,
should be inspected for mechanical damage.
4.2.1.1.2 Windings. Winding conductors
should be inspected for mechanical deformation
and electrical damage. Special attention should
be given to conductors at the winding ends,
crossovers, tapped sections, and that portion of
the winding in and opposite the core window
area. Normally, inspection of windings of a
transformer that has not been disassembled will
be limited to the outer phase windings.

74
 ANSI / IEEE
DISTRIBUTION AND POWER TRANSFORMERS C57.12.90-1987

NOTE: Small changes occur in LVI then restore its trace to the original position; see 4.1.4(3)

Fig 16 (Continued)
Low-Voltage Impulse Changes

4.2.1.1.3 Winding Clamping System.
The winding clamping should be inspected for
looseness and relaxation in applied pressure.
Where applicable, before and after torque values
on clamping bolts should be compared. Inspect
all metal structures for bending and deflection.
Inspect the top and bottom insulating blocks and
spacers for looseness. When possible, ensure that
clamping pressure is exerted on the inner wind-
ing conductors and not on winding cylinders or
vertical oil-duct spacers,
4.2.1.1.4Insulation Systems. Inspect the
vertical alignment of key spacers. Where visible,
insulating collars and winding cylinders should
be inspected for cracks and evidence of crushing,
either of which, if found, may warrant further
disassembly to permit a more detailed inspection
of inner insulating structures and windings. In-

75
ANSI / IEEE
C57.12.90-1987 IEEE GUIDE FOR SHORT-CIRCUIT TESTING OF

NOTE: Small changes occur and continue to grow; see 4.1.4(4)

Fig 17
Low-Voltage Impulse Changes

spect voltage grading devices, such as static
rings for mechanical or electrical damage, or
both.
4.2.1.1.5 Core. Inspect the core, where vis-
ible, for misaligned and temperature discolored
laminations. The core ground strap should be
inspected for evidence of overheating.
4.2.1.1.6 Ratio Selector Switches. In-
spect the contacts of on-load and de-energized
tap selector switches for evidence of overheating
and misalignment.
4.2.1.1.7 Auxiliary Transformers and
Reactors. Inspection procedures similar to
those outlined above should be used to inspect

76

DISTRIBUTION AND POWER TRANSFORMERS
NOTE: See 4.1.4(5)
Fig 18
Low-Voltage Impulse Changes
auxiliary transformers, such as series trans-
formers and reactors.
4.2.1.2 Inspection of Coreform Trans-
formers that are Disassembled. When speci-
fied by those responsible for the application of
the transformer or when warranted by damage
77
ANSI / IEEE
C57.12.90-1987
discovered during inspection of the untanked
unit, it will be necessary to disassemble the un-
tanked unit to permit a more detailed visual
inspection of components. Recommended items
for inspection after removal of the outer phase
windings are as follows.
ANSI / IEEE
C57.12.90-1987 IEEE GUIDE FOR SHORT-CIRCUIT TESTING OF

~ _ _
NOTE: See 4.1.4(5)

Fig 19
Low-Voltage Impulse Changes

4.2.1.2.1 Cable Leads. Inspect winding 4.2.1.2.3Insulation Systems. Inspect the

leads emanating from the inner windings for
mechanical and electrical damage.
4.2.1.2.2 Windings. Inspect the inner
winding conductors for mechanical deformation
and electrical damage.
vertical alignment of key spacers. Where visible,
insulating collars and winding cylinders should
be inspected for damage. Inspect vertical oil-duct
spacers for uniform circumferential spacing and
alignment. Dowel rods or other materials used

78

DISTRIBUTION AND POWER TRANSFORMERS
for radial support at the core legs should be
inspected for damage.
4.2.2 Shellform Power Transformers. Lim-
ited short-circuit testing of shellform trans-
former designs indicates that a n internal
inspection is recommended. Details are matters
of negotiation between those responsible for the
application or design, or both, of the trans-
former.
4.3 Dielectric Tests. The transformer shall be
capable of withstanding standard dielectric
tests, as outlined in ANSI/IEEE C57.12.00-1987
[17] following the short-circuit tests.
79
ANSI / IEEE
(257.12.90-1987
5. Bibliography
[l] LECH, W. and TYMINSKI, L. New Method
of Fault Indication in Dynamic Strength Testing
Transformers. Electrichestuo no 1, 1966, pp
77-81.
[2] WATERS, M., STALEWSKI, A., FARR, J. C.,
and WHITAKER, J. D. Short-circuit Testing of
Power Transformers and the Detection and Lo-
cation of Damage. Conference Internationale des
Grandes Reseaux Electriques a Haute Tension
Paper no 12-05, 1968.
ANSI / IEEE
C57.12.90-1987

Appendix to Part I1

(This Appendix is not a part of ANSI/IEEE C57.12.90-1987, IEEE Standard Test Code for Liquid-Immersed Distribution,
Power, and Regulating Transformers, and IEEE Guide for Short-circuit Testing of Distribution and Power Transformers but
is included for information only.)

Essential Information for Inclusion in

Transformer Short-circuit Test Reports

(1)Date and location of short-circuit tests (6) Measurements prior to, during, and after
(2) Transformer description and ratings short-circuit tests
(3) Test circuit details and diagrams (7) Test results and evaluation:
(4)Test fault type, connections, duration, (a) Electrical
and number (b) Inspection details
(5) Test procedure details (8) Report and results of final routine and
dielectric tests

80
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