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Temperature Rise and Transformer Efficiency
Temperature Rise and Transformer Efficiency
Transformer temperature rise is defined as the average temperature rise of the windings above
the ambient (surrounding) temperature, when the transformer is loaded at its nameplate rating.
A more efficient transformer generates less waste heat in the first place, but transformer
temperature rise results from not only how much heat is generated but also how much heat is
removed. Be careful that a unit carrying a low temperature rise figure is not also inefficient,
using fans to remove the excess heat.
The examples of 1,500 kVA and 75 kVA transformers in the table below are of high-efficiency,
copper-wound transformers designed to achieve an 80C rise and high efficiency. These are
compared to standard-efficiency aluminum-wound units, that are designed for a 150C rise. As
can be seen from this table, the higher-efficiency 80C rise transformers have a first-cost
premium, but a shorter payback than the less-efficient 150C rise transformers. Not only will a
lower-temperature-rise transformer have fewer losses, but also it will have a longer life
expectancy.
Temp. Rise
150° C 80° C 150° C 80° C
(100% load)
Conductor
9.1 kW 4.1 kW 15.5 kW 7.1 kW
Loss
Cost
– $5,900 – $5,900
Premium
Electrical Energy
Annual Savings Payback Period Annual Savings Payback Period
Cost
Manufacturer B 75 kVA*
Temp. Rise
150° C 80° C 150° C 80° C
(100% load)
Cost
– $900 – $900
Premium
Electrical Energy
Annual Savings Payback Period Annual Savings Payback Period
Cost
* Actual examples of 1,500 kVA, 15 kV – 277/480 V, and 75 kVA, 480 V – 120/208 transformers.
** A combination of duty cycle and percent of full loading.