Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Power transformers
and reactors
September 2020
Advances in the interpretation of
transformer Frequency Response
Analysis (FRA)
WG A2.53
Members
P. PICHER, Convenor CA S. TENBOHLEN, TF1 Leader DE
M. LACHMAN, TF2 Leader US A. SCARDAZZI, TF3 Leader BR
P. PATEL, TF4 Leader US N. ABEYWICKRAMA SE
B. DIGGIN IE S. GAZIVODA HR
R. GRUENSEIS AT D. JU CN
V. LARIN RU J. LI CN
M. LOCARNO US H. MARTINS BR
S. MIYAZAKI JP M. RAEDLER AT
J. SANCHEZ FR Y. SHIRASAKA JP
B. SZTARI HU M. TAHIR DE
R.K. TYAGI IN J. VELASQUEZ DE
Z.D. WANG GB M. WEBER DE
P. WERELIUS SE R. ZALESKI PL
Corresponding Members
R. ALVAREZ AR R. AMINI IR
O. AMIROUCHE IT J. BORGHETTO IT
H. RAHIMPOUR AU D. SOFIAN GB
J. TUSEK AU
Other contributors
E. ALZIEU FR B.Z. CHENG GB
P.A. CROSSLEY GB R.S. FERREIRA CA
M.H. SAMIMI DE
Copyright © 2020
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ISBN : 978-2-85873-517-4
TB 812 - Advances in the interpretation of transformer Frequency Response Analysis (FRA)
Executive summary
The objective of CIGRE Working Group (WG) A2.53 was to develop a guide for the interpretation of
transformer Frequency Response Analysis (FRA).
To achieve this goal, the WG focused on the following tasks:
▪ Understand the frequency response and the factors influencing the measurement
▪ Collect interesting case studies
▪ Review literature on quantitative FRA assessment
▪ Apply numerical indices for FRA interpretation and make recommendations
A selection of 18 case studies from a total of 60 cases collected by the WG is presented in this Technical
Brochure (TB). These examples illustrate the frequency ranges that relate to the different failure modes.
However, it can be inferred from the small number of cases shared at the international level that
experience is very limited in FRA interpretation where there is a clear correlation with a mechanical
failure. This could be due to multiple failure modes playing a role when a winding is damaged. For
instance, if a winding is subjected to mechanical displacement, this is likely followed by a turn-to-turn
failure, which can be detected using conventional electrical tests. Mechanical displacements without
turn-to-turn failure are often investigated by dismantling the active part to identify a mechanically
damaged winding; this is often associated with the winding closest to the core. Since such post-mortem
investigations are costly, they are not common practice and potentially good case studies are being lost.
It is also possible for a transformer to survive the mechanical displacement of a winding and for this
weakened condition to go unnoticed due to lack of testing and inspection.
Because of the limited availability of real case studies, academic institutions have worked intensively in
recent years to generate data that can be used to improve interpretation. This data comes either from
experimental laboratory winding models that can be physically modified to simulate mechanical failure
modes, or from numerical modelling. A considerable amount of literature covers high frequency
transformer modelling, using lumped-element circuits or finite element simulations, numerical indices
for FRA assessment and artificial intelligence. However, the question remains as to the reliability of an
extrapolation from simulated cases to a real-life circumstance, especially when the discrepancy may be
due to external or testing related issues. Therefore, recommendations based on simulations should be
treated with some caution.
This TB contributes to the improvement of FRA interpretation by collecting industry experience and
contributions from academic institutions. Based on academic experimental work and a comparative
analysis of numerical indices as applied to selected case studies, some indices were identified as the
most promising for further investigation into objective FRA interpretation.
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TB 812 - Advances in the interpretation of transformer Frequency Response Analysis (FRA)
Contents
1. Introduction.............................................................................................................. 11
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TB 812 - Advances in the interpretation of transformer Frequency Response Analysis (FRA)
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TB 812 - Advances in the interpretation of transformer Frequency Response Analysis (FRA)
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TB 812 - Advances in the interpretation of transformer Frequency Response Analysis (FRA)
Figures
Figure 2.1 Main features of a typical frequency response ..................................................................................... 14
Figure 2.2 Frequency response range influenced by leakage channel .................................................................. 15
Figure 2.3 Typical open-circuit frequency response measurements of HV and LV windings ................................ 15
Figure 2.4 Typical responses of common and series windings.............................................................................. 16
Figure 2.5 Typical frequency responses of interleaved vs plain disc windings ...................................................... 16
Figure 2.6 Example of frequency responses of a delta-star transformer with buried tertiary ................................. 17
Figure 2.7 Example of frequency responses of a star-delta transformer with buried tertiary ................................. 17
Figure 2.8 Example of frequency responses of a star-star transformer with buried tertiary ................................... 17
Figure 2.9 Examples of frequency response of autotransformer with accessible tertiary: (a) series winding, (b)
common winding and (c) delta ............................................................................................................................... 18
Figure 3.1: n-stage lumped-element LC ladder network of single air-core winding ............................................... 20
Figure 3.2 Typical FRA responses of single air core windings .............................................................................. 20
Figure 3.3 Typical FRA responses of single windings with core ............................................................................ 21
Figure 3.4 Typical FRA responses of single windings with core (effect of mutual inductance – shift resonant
frequencies up) ...................................................................................................................................................... 23
Figure 3.5 Circuit model for single-phase two winding transformer ....................................................................... 23
Figure 3.6 Typical FRA responses of windings in a transformer ............................................................................ 24
Figure 3.7 Comparison of LV winding FRA plots before and after HV winding is added ....................................... 24
Figure 3.8 Two-stage equivalent network of single-phase two-winding transformer.............................................. 25
Figure 3.9 Comparison of HV winding FRA plots before and after LV winding is added ....................................... 26
Figure 3.10 Frequency response (a) and active admittance of HV winding (b) ..................................................... 27
Figure 3.11 Frequency response (a) and active admittance of HV winding (b) with earthed (1) and unearthed (2, 3)
core and shields (1 and 2 – HVOC; 3 – HVSC) ..................................................................................................... 28
Figure 4.1 Effect of increased earth circuit impedance .......................................................................................... 29
Figure 4.2 External busbar connected to bushings ................................................................................................ 30
Figure 4.3 Poor connections of short-circuit cables ............................................................................................... 30
Figure 4.4 Effect of earthing configuration of screen of measuring lead ................................................................ 31
Figure 4.5 Effect of earthing neutral in not-under-test winding .............................................................................. 31
Figure 4.6 Influence of direction of measurement.................................................................................................. 32
Figure 4.7 Measurements of same 11 kV winding using 3 different voltage levels 3 V (green), 5 V (grey) and 10 V
(red) peak to peak [21] .......................................................................................................................................... 32
Figure 4.8 Influence of core earth (1/2) ................................................................................................................. 33
Figure 4.9 Influence of core earth (2/2) ................................................................................................................. 33
Figure 4.10 Influence of insulating fluid, LV side (1/4) ........................................................................................... 34
Figure 4.11 Influence of insulating fluid, HV side (2/4) .......................................................................................... 34
Figure 4.12 Influence of insulating fluid (3/4) ......................................................................................................... 34
Figure 4.13 Influence of insulating fluid (4/4) ......................................................................................................... 35
Figure 4.14 Effect of core magnetic state (1/3) ...................................................................................................... 36
Figure 4.15 Effect of core magnetic state (2/3) ...................................................................................................... 36
Figure 4.16 Effect of core magnetic state (3/3) ...................................................................................................... 36
Figure 4.17 Influence of test bushings ................................................................................................................... 37
Figure 4.18 Influence of different bushings ............................................................................................................ 37
Figure 4.19 Effect of temperature [23] ................................................................................................................... 38
Figure 4.20 Influence of tap changer position in winding-under-test (1/2) ............................................................. 39
Figure 4.21 Influence of tap changer position in winding-under-test (2/2) ............................................................. 39
Figure 4.22 Effect of various connections of not-under-test winding (1/3) ............................................................. 39
Figure 4.23 Effect of various connections of not-under-test winding (2/3) ............................................................. 40
Figure 4.24 Effect of various connections of not-under-test winding (3/3) ............................................................. 40
Figure 4.25 Influence of tap changer previous to neutral position ......................................................................... 40
Figure 4.26 Effect of buried delta winding configuration (1/2) ................................................................................ 41
Figure 4.27 Effect of buried delta winding configuration (2/2) ................................................................................ 41
Figure 4.28 Influence of external interference ....................................................................................................... 42
Figure 4.29 Frequency response measurements using two devices having different dynamic ranges [29] .......... 42
Figure 4.30 Effect of an insufficient clearance, in this case 20 mm (LV of generator transformer) ........................ 43
Figure 4.31 Comparison between phases ............................................................................................................. 43
Figure 4.32 Comparison of sister units (1/3) .......................................................................................................... 44
Figure 4.33 Comparison of sister units (2/3) .......................................................................................................... 44
Figure 4.34 Comparison of sister units (3/3) .......................................................................................................... 44
Figure 5.1 Case 1 Open-circuit measurements on series windings ....................................................................... 47
Figure 5.2 Case 1 Open-circuit measurements on common windings ................................................................... 47
Figure 5.3 Case 1 Internal inspection .................................................................................................................... 47
Figure 5.4 Case 2 Open-circuit measurements on the LV winding of two identical transformers .......................... 48
Figure 5.5 Case 2 Internal inspection .................................................................................................................... 48
Figure 5.6 Case 3 Series and common windings open-circuit measurements ...................................................... 49
Figure 5.7 Case 3 Tertiary windings open-circuit measurements .......................................................................... 49
Figure 5.8 Case 3 Common windings short-circuit measurements with tertiary windings shorted......................... 49
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TB 812 - Advances in the interpretation of transformer Frequency Response Analysis (FRA)
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TB 812 - Advances in the interpretation of transformer Frequency Response Analysis (FRA)
Figure 8.8 Application of assessment factor SDD in Case 10 HV and LV open-circuit measurements on phase A
.............................................................................................................................................................................. 99
Figure 8.9 Application of assessment factor SDD in Case 11 HV open-circuit measurements on phase 1 ......... 100
Figure 8.10 Application of assessment factor SDD in Case 12 measurements before and after second and third
short-circuit tests ................................................................................................................................................. 100
Figure 8.11 Application of assessment factor SDD in Case 13 common and tertiary measurements before and after
the short-circuit test ............................................................................................................................................. 101
Figure 8.12 Application of assessment factor SDD in Case 14 HV to neutral open-circuit measurements before and
after the short-circuit test ..................................................................................................................................... 101
Figure 8.13 Minimum value of winding assessment factor SDD (MSDD) in cases 2 to 14 .................................. 102
Tables
Table 6.1 Frequency ranges used in literature for FRA interpretation ................................................................... 68
Table 6.2 Names, abbreviations and main references of the numerical indices ([59]) ........................................... 69
Table 6.3 Level of deformations based on Rxy...................................................................................................... 73
Table 6.4 Description of the circuit elements of the transformer model ................................................................. 78
Table 6.5 Description of the training set [92] ......................................................................................................... 83
Table 7.1 Case studies for index evaluation .......................................................................................................... 86
Table 7.2 Monotonicity of the numerical indices .................................................................................................... 88
Table 7.3 Effect of number of data points .............................................................................................................. 91
Table 8.1 Selected cases for index analysis .......................................................................................................... 92
Table 8.2 Results of the index analysis on the affected phase/winding by the faults presented in six selected case
studies ................................................................................................................................................................... 94
Table 8.3 Results of the index analysis on the unaffected phase/winding by the faults presented in six selected case
studies ................................................................................................................................................................... 95
Table 8.4 Selected cases for application of graphical evaluation method ............................................................. 97
Equations
Equation 3.1 .......................................................................................................................................................... 20
Equation 3.2 .......................................................................................................................................................... 20
Equation 3.3 .......................................................................................................................................................... 21
Equation 3.4 .......................................................................................................................................................... 21
Equation 3.5 .......................................................................................................................................................... 22
Equation 3.6 .......................................................................................................................................................... 25
Equation 3.7 .......................................................................................................................................................... 25
Equation 3.8 .......................................................................................................................................................... 27
Equation 3.9 .......................................................................................................................................................... 28
Equation 6.1 .......................................................................................................................................................... 70
Equation 6.2 .......................................................................................................................................................... 70
Equation 6.3 .......................................................................................................................................................... 70
Equation 6.4 .......................................................................................................................................................... 70
Equation 6.5 .......................................................................................................................................................... 71
Equation 6.6 .......................................................................................................................................................... 71
Equation 6.7 .......................................................................................................................................................... 71
Equation 6.8 .......................................................................................................................................................... 71
Equation 6.9 .......................................................................................................................................................... 71
Equation 6.10 ........................................................................................................................................................ 71
Equation 6.11 ........................................................................................................................................................ 71
Equation 6.12 ........................................................................................................................................................ 71
Equation 6.13 ........................................................................................................................................................ 71
Equation 6.14 ........................................................................................................................................................ 71
Equation 6.15 ........................................................................................................................................................ 71
Equation 6.16 ........................................................................................................................................................ 71
Equation 6.17 ........................................................................................................................................................ 71
Equation 6.18 ........................................................................................................................................................ 71
Equation 6.19 ........................................................................................................................................................ 71
Equation 6.20 ........................................................................................................................................................ 71
Equation 6.21 ........................................................................................................................................................ 71
Equation 6.22 ........................................................................................................................................................ 71
Equation 6.23 ........................................................................................................................................................ 71
Equation 6.24 ........................................................................................................................................................ 74
Equation 6.25 ........................................................................................................................................................ 74
Equation 6.26 ........................................................................................................................................................ 74
Equation 6.27 ........................................................................................................................................................ 74
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TB 812 - Advances in the interpretation of transformer Frequency Response Analysis (FRA)
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TB 812 - Advances in the interpretation of transformer Frequency Response Analysis (FRA)
1. Introduction
Measurement of a frequency response is now commonly used to assess the mechanical integrity of the
active part of power transformers. The analysis of the results, so-called Frequency Response Analysis
(FRA), is based on comparison with a reference measurement which is either a previous measurement
on the same unit, a measurement on an identical transformer or a measurement on another phase of a
three-phase transformer.
In 2008, CIGRE published a Technical Brochure (TB 342) [1] on the assessment of the mechanical
condition of transformer windings using Frequency Response Analysis (FRA). This guide covers the
various measurement techniques available in the industry and makes recommendations on the
standardization of good measurement practices. One chapter is dedicated to FRA interpretation and
several examples of frequency response measurements and diagnostics are reported.
After the CIGRE Working Group had completed their work, an IEC project team was initiated to develop
a standard on the measurement of frequency response. The standard, published in 2012 [2], largely
based on the previously published CIGRE guide, specifies the measurement method (connection and
configuration), the measuring equipment and the measurement records.
In parallel with the CIGRE and IEC initiatives, another working group was active within the IEEE. The
measurement configurations presented in the IEEE guide [3] are similar to those presented by IEC but
there are a few differences in the recommended configurations for a new set of measurements.
Even if the method has recently been studied at the international level in various working groups under
the umbrella of the CIGRE, IEC and IEEE organisations, there was still a need in the industry to obtain
more guidance on the interpretation of the results. In fact, the usual way to interpret the result is to
visually and subjectively compare the frequency response curves and make an interpretation based on
previous experience. The ultimate goal would be to develop an internationally agreed objective
interpretation algorithm that can be applied to condition assessment of transformers after an in-service
event, or as a pass-fail criterion for transformer short-circuit testing.
In this context, CIGRE WG A2.53 was created in September 2015. During the first meeting in June
2016, it was decided to divide the working group into the following four task forces:
▪ Understanding the frequency response and the factors influencing the measurement
▪ Case studies
▪ Literature review of quantitative FRA assessment
▪ Application of indices for FRA interpretation
This Technical Brochure (TB) is structured in the following chapters:
▪ Chapters 2 and 3 – Understanding the frequency response: general overview and
fundamental analysis through circuit modelling.
▪ Chapter 4 – Factors influencing the measurement: the factors that can influence the
measurement and therefore the interpretation. This chapter covers the measurement setup,
the transformer state and configuration, and other external factors.
▪ Chapter 5 – Case studies: a description of case studies showing how FRA can be used to
detect mechanical failure modes and other electrical failures.
▪ Chapter 6 – Literature review of quantitative FRA assessment: a comprehensive review of the
academic state-of-the-art regarding quantitative FRA assessment. Note that an interim report
on this subject was published on behalf of the WG [4].
▪ Chapter 7 – Evaluation of selected numerical indices: the numerical indices are evaluated
based on their performance over key technical parameters.
▪ Chapter 8 – Comparative analysis of selected numerical indices using case studies: a study of
the performance of the numerical indices using selected CIGRE A2.53 case studies datasets.
This chapter concludes with recommendations to investigate promising numerical indices in
the future and to gain more experience by utilizing the indices in several other cases.
▪ Chapter 9 – Conclusion.
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TB 812 - Advances in the interpretation of transformer Frequency Response Analysis (FRA)
Acknowledgments:
The redaction of a TB requires the contribution of all members of the WG. The task force leaders and
some members made extra contributions to put together the text, figures and tables of this document.
To acknowledge this additional contribution, their names are found just under the title of each chapter.
Finally, the authors would like to acknowledge WG members Mario Locarno (US) and Joe Tusek (AU)
for their significant contribution to the editorial and technical review of the whole TB.
Note on terminology:
In this TB, the IEC terminology is generally used, however, the end-to-end measurement, as defined by
IEC [2], is also called open-circuit measurement, and the end-to-end short circuit measurement is also
called short-circuit measurement.
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TB 812 - Advances in the interpretation of transformer Frequency Response Analysis (FRA)
2.1 Introduction
A transformer frequency response is a representation of the interactions between the inductance,
capacitance and resistance elements comprised in the circuit model of the windings. This chapter aims
to provide the reader with a basic understanding of the main features that can be expected in a frequency
response measurement. It presents a description of the physics behind frequency response and a
description of typical responses depending on different winding designs and configurations. In the
following Chapter 3, a more in-depth discussion through transformer circuit modelling is presented.
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TB 812 - Advances in the interpretation of transformer Frequency Response Analysis (FRA)
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TB 812 - Advances in the interpretation of transformer Frequency Response Analysis (FRA)
the reluctance of the latter is much higher than that of the core, the changes in the leakage channel
dominate the flux path and, thus, the impedance in the low frequency range. With the geometry of the
leakage channel being almost identical in all three phases, the comparison between phases offers a
convenient way to analyse the short-circuit measurement data.
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TB 812 - Advances in the interpretation of transformer Frequency Response Analysis (FRA)
Plain disc
Interleaved
disc
(series
winding)
16
TB 812 - Advances in the interpretation of transformer Frequency Response Analysis (FRA)
Figure 2.6 Example of frequency responses of a delta-star transformer with buried tertiary
Figure 2.7 Example of frequency responses of a star-delta transformer with buried tertiary
Figure 2.8 Example of frequency responses of a star-star transformer with buried tertiary
17
TB 812 - Advances in the interpretation of transformer Frequency Response Analysis (FRA)
45 MVA, 138/46/13 kV
YNa0d
(a)
45 MVA, 138/46/13 kV
YNa0d
(b)
45 MVA, 138/46/13 kV
YNa0d
(c)
Figure 2.9 Examples of frequency response of autotransformer with accessible tertiary: (a) series
winding, (b) common winding and (c) delta
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TB 812 - Advances in the interpretation of transformer Frequency Response Analysis (FRA)
3.1 Introduction
A transformer can be modelled as its equivalent circuit network, consisting of a combination of
inductances (L) and capacitances (C) which are geometry dependent electrical parameters. Windings
for the same phase are magnetically coupled, and represented by self and mutual inductances. In
addition to the winding series capacitances and shunt capacitances to earth, a pair of adjacent windings
is also electrostatically coupled, resulting in inter-winding capacitances. Resistive losses can be ignored
as they do not significantly alter the key features of frequency response plots but only produce a
damping effect on the resonances [13]. Consequently, there is a relationship between winding geometry,
equivalent electrical components of the circuit network and the measured frequency responses at the
winding terminals.
The underlying diagnostic principle of FRA is that a physical displacement or deformation of windings
results in changes in the equivalent electrical components of the corresponding winding part. These
changes are reflected in changes or even additions to the observed resonant frequencies in frequency
response curves.
This chapter illustrates with simplified circuit models the electromagnetic circuit theory behind the
frequency response measurement and provides a theoretical basis for understanding of fundamentals
and interpretation. It starts with a review of a single air-core winding with uniform winding structure, and
the complexity is gradually built up by taking single-phase transformer core and winding interactions into
consideration. All the windings modelled and analysed in this chapter are of uniform structure, which
means insulation-graded disc type windings (e.g., an intershielded + plain disc type winding) and
windings consisting of two or more coils (including tap windings) are not included. In addition, winding
terminal conditions, such as the measurement set-up and the bushing effect, are not considered in
modelling.
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TB 812 - Advances in the interpretation of transformer Frequency Response Analysis (FRA)
L: Total inductance,
capacitance,
capacitance to ground,
n: Number of stage.
A pseudo anti-resonance is defined as the local minimum between the adjacent resonances, where the
frequency response amplitude would be concave without the sharp drop into the large negative dB value
as for the normal anti-resonance, hence the frequency response amplitude spectrum has the so-called
U-shape feature around a pseudo anti-resonance.
The frequencies of the resonances, fk, can be calculated as
1 1
𝑓𝑘 = , 𝑘 = 1, 2, 3, … . (𝑛 − 1)
2π√𝐿𝐶𝑠 α2 Equation 3.2
√1+
(kπ)2
A resonance would display itself as the local maximum in amplitude, and sometimes resonant
frequencies are also called natural frequencies of winding.
The ‘critical’ anti-resonant frequency of the n-stage lumped-element ladder network, fc, can be
calculated as
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TB 812 - Advances in the interpretation of transformer Frequency Response Analysis (FRA)
1
𝑓𝑐 = Equation 3.3
2π√𝐿𝐶𝑠
where the frequency response amplitude would drop sharply to a large negative dB value. Hence this
anti-resonant frequency is regarded as ‘normal’. The reason it is also called ‘critical’ anti-resonant
frequency is because it is the highest frequency at which the condition of parallel resonance inside the
winding is still valid, and afterwards the impedance of each parallel branch L/n and nCs will behave
capacitively and the amplitude takes a rising trend with frequency in the rate of
2𝜋 ∗ 50√𝐶𝑔 𝐶𝑠
20𝑙𝑜𝑔10 |A| = 20𝑙𝑜𝑔10 ( 𝑒 𝛼 −𝑒 −𝛼
𝑓) Equation 3.4
2
It can be noticed that α has the dominating effect on the shape of a frequency response. When α is
4α2
small enough, there are no multiple resonances expected as the terms in Equation 3.1 and
((2k−1)π)2
𝛼2
in Equation 3.2 are too small to distinguish the resonant frequencies, f0k and fk from fc. These
(𝑘𝜋)2
equations explain well why windings with low series capacitance, such as plain disc windings and single
helical windings always have multiple resonances, whereas windings with high series capacitance, such
as interleaved disc type windings, always have less or no resonance.
3.2.2 Typical frequency responses of single windings with core
The next step is to add the core effect by assuming a single winding is now placed onto the transformer
core. Hence the first anti-resonance, one of the low frequency features we normally see on the frequency
response measurements made on a transformer, would appear for the single windings with small α. The
exemplar LV and HV windings described above are now modelled with the core effect added, and their
frequency responses are shown in Figure 3.3. The equivalent magnetizing inductance is Lcore= 0.719 H
for the LV winding, and Lcore= 90 H for the HV winding at power frequency. The equivalent magnetizing
inductance is set as constant in modelling rather than a frequency dependent value, as frequency
dependent magnetizing inductance has shown negligible effect on the corresponding frequency
response curves in [14].
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TB 812 - Advances in the interpretation of transformer Frequency Response Analysis (FRA)
It can be seen that due to the large value of magnetizing inductance, the amplitude of the HV winding
frequency response at low frequencies has dropped by nearly 40 dB when comparing to that of the air-
core configuration. The first low frequency anti-resonance has clearly appeared at the frequency of
930 Hz. This first anti-resonance caused by the core as well as the bulk winding capacitances can be
approximated by Equation 3.5, when considering the magnetic coupling factor β among parts of the
winding through the main flux as well as air flux linkage, in addition to the space coefficient α [14].
𝑎2 𝛽 √ 2 𝑎 2 𝛽 𝑎4 2
1 1 1− − 𝛽 − + 𝛽
2
𝑓𝑎𝑟𝑒𝑠1 = ( )2 ( ) 8 4 64 Equation 3.5
2𝜋 𝐶𝑠 𝐿𝑇 (1−𝛽)
where LT = Lcore+L, and the magnetic coupling factor is defined as 𝛽 = 𝑀12 ⁄𝐿11 , where M12 is the mutual-
inductance and L11 is the self-inductance of the two units winding model. Interested readers may use
Equation 3.5 with the given parameters of the HV winding, and its magnetic coupling factor β=0.9921
for an exercise and compare their own calculation result with the marked frequencies in Figure 3.3 (a).
As for the LV winding, due to the smaller number of turns linked with the main flux in the core, its
magnetizing inductance is too small and α dominates the frequency response of the LV winding. In
Figure 3.3 (b) the ‘U’ shape in the curve is visible. Comparing with the frequency response of the single
air-core LV winding, it seems that the first pseudo anti-resonant frequency has been shifted to the lower
frequency due to the introduction of the magnetizing inductance, and there is no change for the other
resonances.
It should be also noted that although the transformer core is introduced, the high frequency features on
both the LV and HV winding frequency responses are hardly changed at all.
The impact of transformer core structure on frequency response low frequency characteristics can be
modelled based on the principle of duality [15]. The asymmetry of the three-limb/five-limb core structure
produces dissimilar low frequency characteristics for three phase frequency responses, i.e., there are
often double anti-resonances for the two outer phases frequency responses and the single anti-
resonance for the middle phase. This can be explained by the different magnetizing inductances seen
by three phase windings, as the main flux path for the middle phase of a three-limb core is different from
those of the other two phases.
3.2.3 Modelling a single winding with a full matrix to deal with mutual inductive
coupling
A transformer is designed to be efficient by arranging windings so they are magnetically closely-coupled.
Hence mutual inductances among windings and among parts of the same winding are substantive. The
windings of the same phase share the same main flux but would experience different leakage fluxes. A
fixed value of transformer impedance can be achieved by carefully designing the winding dimensions
as well as the radial insulation distance between them. Such a magnetic coupling can only be accurately
modelled when we represent it using a full inductive matrix. Note that the number of n*n inductive
matrices can be varied depending on the frequency range of interest. As a rule of thumb, the higher the
frequency, the larger the n.
The next step is to represent mutual inductive coupling effect by modelling the full inductance matrix of
the air-core winding before adding the magnetizing inductance coupling. Figure 3.4 shows the effect of
mutual inductances for the frequency responses of the LV and HV windings.
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TB 812 - Advances in the interpretation of transformer Frequency Response Analysis (FRA)
LV HV LV HV
CgL/N CHL/N CgH/N
Mcore+Mair
Core Tank
Lcore+Lair
NCsL NCsH
CHL/N
CgL/N CgH/N
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TB 812 - Advances in the interpretation of transformer Frequency Response Analysis (FRA)
3.3.2 Impact of HV winding onto LV winding FRA plot in the low frequency range
In the core dominant region which conventionally is regarded as below a few kHz, our general
knowledge is that typical first anti-resonances exist for both winding frequency response traces. This
indicates that the conventional space coefficient α of a single winding is no longer valid to explain the
low frequency characteristic, as shown in Figure 3.7, where is shown the impact of the open HV winding
on the LV winding characteristic.
Figure 3.7 Comparison of LV winding FRA plots before and after HV winding is added
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TB 812 - Advances in the interpretation of transformer Frequency Response Analysis (FRA)
Indeed, LV winding frequency response measurement in the low frequency range is not only determined
by the magnetizing inductance and its own winding capacitances, but also influenced by the inductive
and capacitive couplings from the HV winding, which is not under test. This can be explained by a two-
stage equivalent circuit model of the single-phase two-winding transformer as given in Figure 3.8.
E E
V1 V3 V1 V3
𝑁2 −4𝑁+4
𝐶𝑒𝑠 = 𝐶𝑠𝐿 + 𝐶𝑠𝐻 𝑁 2 + ( )𝐶𝐻𝐿 , 𝐶𝑒𝑔 = 𝐶𝑔𝐿 + 𝐶𝑔𝐻 𝑓𝑜𝑟 𝐿𝑉 𝑤𝑖𝑛𝑑𝑖𝑛𝑔 Equation 3.7
8
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Figure 3.9 Comparison of HV winding FRA plots before and after LV winding is added
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TB 812 - Advances in the interpretation of transformer Frequency Response Analysis (FRA)
secondary winding, are mutually compensated, and the magnetic flux generated by the primary winding
penetrates the magnetic core, without encountering reaction from the secondary winding. Thus, at
natural frequencies, the short circuit of the secondary winding has practically no effect on the admittance
of the primary winding and has no influence on the values of the natural frequencies. However, at
frequencies much lower than the first natural frequency of the primary winding, the condition of the
secondary winding, i.e., the presence of a short circuit, has an influence on flux penetration into the core
and on its return path. This, in turn, leads to significant changes in the admittance of the primary winding
and the resonant frequencies related to the interaction between the windings (Figure 3.10 (a)).
(a)
(b)
Figure 3.10 Frequency response (a) and active admittance of HV winding (b)
It is convenient to identify natural frequencies through winding admittance namely by using a local
maxima of active admittance (Figure 3.10 (b)). When source frequency is equal to one of winding natural
frequency, the internal winding resonance occurs and oscillatory currents and active energy
consumption from the power source take place. Thus, the active admittance local maxima can be used
as indicator that source frequency is close to winding natural frequency.
The algorithm for determining the winding natural frequencies [17, 18] contains the following main steps:
1. Using Equation 3.8, approximate evaluation of winding admittance based on measured frequency
responses corresponding to open-circuited and short-circuited secondary winding (A and 𝜑 are the
amplitude and phase values from the frequency response measurement):
−1
1
𝑌12 ≈ [50 ( − 1)] Equation 3.8
𝐴∠𝜑
2. Approximate evaluation of winding active admittance (conductance) as real part of admittance Y12
or using Equation 3.9:
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TB 812 - Advances in the interpretation of transformer Frequency Response Analysis (FRA)
𝐴 cos 𝜑 − 𝐴2
𝐺12 ≈ Equation 3.9
50(𝐴2 − 2𝐴 cos 𝜑 + 1)
3. The natural frequencies are located at the local maxima of the overlaid open and short circuit
frequency responses of the active admittance.
In practice the use of this method makes it possible to identify the natural frequencies of helical- and
disc-type windings, including windings with large series capacitance, for which the resonance peaks at
natural frequencies may not be evidently seen in the original frequency response.
It should be noted that the presence of shunt capacitances in parallel with the 50-Ω input impedance
leads to the error in active admittance evaluated from the frequency response, which increases with
frequency. This is manifested, for example, in an abnormally sharp increase of active admittance
obtained from Equation 3.9 with an increase in frequency (Figure 3.10 (b)). However, as practice shows,
this error begins to strongly affect frequencies closer to 1 MHz and in general does not interfere with
determining the natural frequencies of the windings in the range up to several hundred kHz.
FRA interpretation based on analysis of winding natural frequencies can be used to assess different
types of winding electrical and mechanical faults [12, 17-19].
Application of this approach can be illustrated by detection of unearthed magnetic core and electrostatic
shields. Figure 3.11 shows an example of frequency responses of a two-winding step-up transformer
HV winding having unearthed core and shields [18]. When core was unearthed (red curve), first anti-
resonance frequency in the range 1–2 kHz became bit lower, new resonance appeared at 400 kHz, and
frequency response in medium and high frequency range shifted up by approximately 7 dB. Meanwhile
the natural frequencies of the HV windings, which are resonance peaks between 8 kHz and 100 kHz
(Figure 3.11, b), remained almost unchanged, indicating that the ‘fault’ is not inside the HV winding.
(a) (b)
Figure 3.11 Frequency response (a) and active admittance of HV winding (b) with earthed (1) and
unearthed (2, 3) core and shields (1 and 2 – HVOC; 3 – HVSC)
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4.1 Introduction
For frequency response measurements, the likelihood of a transformer having a problem is significantly
lower than the likelihood of the test personnel making a mistake. This chapter reviews the factors
potentially influencing the data. The impact on the frequency response shown in the examples is specific
to units tested and will vary from case to case. However, with these examples, the objective is to raise
awareness about the role these factors may play so that in searching for causes of abnormal data, their
potential contribution is not overlooked. Once these factors are eliminated as suspects or identified as
not relevant, attention can be turned to the transformer.
50 µΩ 100 µΩ 3.5 mΩ 7 mΩ 14 mΩ
50 µΩ 100 µΩ 3.5 mΩ 7 mΩ 14 mΩ
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0
Magnitude (dB)
Alu Braids
Cooper wire
-50
-100
2 4 6
10 10 10
Frequency (Hz)
Figure 4.4 Effect of earthing configuration of screen of measuring lead
LV neutral
earthed
LV neutral
unearthed
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bushing end of the winding under test will be facing a different RLC network than one travelling from the
line bushing. It is therefore important to use the same direction of measurement, as it is specified in the
IEC standard [2].
Figure 4.7 Measurements of same 11 kV winding using 3 different voltage levels 3 V (green), 5 V (grey)
and 10 V (red) peak to peak [21]
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same rationale as that used to explain the difference between LV and HV frequency responses. When
the main core is unearthed, the coupling between the LV winding and earth is reduced, increasing
potential of the floating LV winding. This additionally increases the capacitive current flowing from LV
winding through the measuring impedance. More discussion can be found in [18].
Unearthed
core
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34
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data shows the expected difference in the unit’s traces in the high-frequency range, which is normally
attributed to the influence of bushings.
Figure 4.18 shows the influence of different bushings on the open-circuit trace on the high-voltage
winding. The difference between the traces is clearly visible in the high-frequency range.
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4.3.5 Temperature
Large temperature variations can influence the response with the extent depending on the difference in
temperature between the measurements. The impact may be seen in amplitude of the response,
typically noticeable at the resonance points where resistance dominates as well as in the shift of the
trace across the frequency sweep. The latter is attributed to a temperature dependant change in the
dielectric constant.
Usually, factory measurements are performed at room temperature. However, field measurements are
carried out at a variety of temperatures, from ambient to near to service temperature. The extent of
influence depends on the difference in temperature between the measurements. In the example shown
in Figure 4.19, a temperature difference of 40 K influenced the frequency response measurement. The
temperature increase caused a decrease of the resonance frequencies.
-20
-25
-30
-35
Amplitude (dB)
-40
-45
-50 Measurements in repair
-55 shop (red) and in field
(blue), both without oil;
-60 temperature difference
-65 40 K (colder in field)
-70
50000 500000
Frequency (Hz)
Figure 4.19 Effect of temperature [23]
T2-A (X1H0X0) on site T2-A (X1H0X0) in repair shop
4.3.6 Moisture
Experimental studies showed that transformer moisture diffusion can lead to frequency response
measurement deviations [24-26]. The migration of moisture from paper to oil insulation (when
temperature increases) can make that local resonances in the frequency response change at lower
frequencies, while diffusion of moisture from oil to paper insulation (when temperature decreases) will
shift resonances to higher frequencies [27]. Other techniques, such as dielectric frequency response or
power factor, are often used to assess the level of moisture in transformer insulation and thus can
provide support for interpretation.
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Direction prior to
entering neutral position
40
TB 812 - Advances in the interpretation of transformer Frequency Response Analysis (FRA)
41
TB 812 - Advances in the interpretation of transformer Frequency Response Analysis (FRA)
Figure 4.29 Frequency response measurements using two devices having different dynamic ranges [29]
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Figure 4.30 Effect of an insufficient clearance, in this case 20 mm (LV of generator transformer)
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45
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5. Case studies
Leaders: Poorvi Patel (US) and Alaor Scardazzi (BR)
5.1 Introduction
In this chapter, FRA examples are presented and discussed. It is well known that the interpretation of
frequency response measurements is based on a comparison with a reference response (previous
measurement on the same unit, an identical transformer or between the phases of a three-phase
transformer).
As demonstrated in the following case studies, the appearance of new features or major frequency shifts
is cause for concern. Significant changes of the trace amplitude are usually accompanied by significant
phase differences, so phase information is to some extent redundant. In this chapter, only the amplitude
information is used for the visual analysis.
As a good practice, any significant deviation in the comparison with a reference measurement should
be investigated to make sure that the discrepancy is not due to measuring issues as described in
Chapter 4. In this chapter, the measurements are assumed to have been correctly executed using the
best recommended practices.
In the course of this WG, 60 cases were collected and the following 18 cases, covering the main
mechanical and electrical failure modes, are presented in this chapter:
Case 1 Buckling of the common and tertiary windings
Case 2 Buckling of the inner LV winding
Case 3 Buckling of the common winding
Case 4 Buckling of the inner winding
Case 5 Twisting and loss of clamping
Case 6 Axial movement of the LV winding
Case 7 Axial displacement of the stabilising winding
Case 8 Conductors tilting
Case 9 Successful short-circuit test
Case 10 Successful short-circuit test
Case 11 Successful short-circuit test
Case 12 Slightly buckled winding
Case 13 Lead movement, axial collapse and spiralling
Case 14 Slight displacement of leads showing possible twisting of the winding
Case 15 Broken earthing connection between core elements of a shunt reactor
Case 16 Short-circuit inside winding
Case 17 Opening of a parallel winding
Case 18 Broken bushing connection
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-10
-20
Amplitude (dB)
-30
-40
-50
Phase A
-60 Phase B
Phase C
-70
2.E+1 2.E+2 2.E+3 2.E+4 2.E+5 2.E+6
Frequency (Hz)
Amplitude (dB)
-40 -20
-50 -25
-60 -30
-70 Phase A -35 Phase A
-80 Phase B -40 Phase B
-90 Phase C -45 Phase C
-100 -50
2.E+1 2.E+2 2.E+3 2.E+4 2.E+5 2.E+6 2.E+4 2.E+5 2.E+6
Frequency (Hz) Frequency (Hz)
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Figure 5.4 shows the open-circuit measurements on the LV winding of two identical transformers
showing a shift in the resonance frequencies in the 10 kHz to 2 MHz frequency range.
0 0
-5
-5
-10
-15 -10
Amplitude (dB)
Amplitude (dB)
-20
-15
-25
-30 -20
-35 -25
-40
Phase B -30 Phase B
-45 Phase C
Phase C
-50 -35
1.E+1 1.E+2 1.E+3 1.E+4 1.E+5 1.E+6 1.E+7 1.E+4 1.E+5 1.E+6
Frequency (Hz) Frequency (Hz)
Figure 5.4 Case 2 Open-circuit measurements on the LV winding of two identical transformers
The internal inspection showed significant buckling of the inner LV winding (Figure 5.5).
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10
0
Serie Common
-10 s
Amplitude (dB)
-20
-30
-40
-50
H1-X1
-60
H2-X2
-70
H3-X3
-80
1,E+1 1,E+2 1,E+3 1,E+4 1,E+5 1,E+6 1,E+7
Frequency (Hz)
Figure 5.8 Case 3 Common windings short-circuit measurements with tertiary windings shorted
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After diagnostics such as leakage reactance test and internal inspection, the customer decided to send
the unit to a repair shop for full refurbishment. During untanking, a severely buckled common winding
was found (Figure 5.9).
(a) Phase 1
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(b) Phase 2
(c) Phase 3
Figure 5.10: Case 4 LV open circuit measurements [30]
Figure 5.11 Case 4 Internal inspection (left - phase 1 and right - phase 2) [30]
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0 -10
Reference
-10 Failed
-15
Amplitude (dB)
-20
-30
-40
-20
-50
-60
-25
1.E+1 1.E+2 1.E+3 1.E+4 1.E+5 1.E+6 1.E+7
Frequency (Hz)
-30
Figure 5.16 Case 6 LV open-circuit measurements
0
1.E+5
-10 1.E+6
-12 Frequency (Hz)
-10
-14
Amplitude (dB)
-20 -16
Amplitude (dB)
-30 -18
-40 -20
Reference
Failed -22
-50
-24
-60
1.E+1 1.E+2 1.E+3 1.E+4 1.E+5 1.E+6 -26
1.E+7
Frequency (Hz)
-28
Figure 5.17 Case 6 LV with short-circuit
-30 on HV
1.E+5 1.E+6
Frequency (Hz)
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Phase U
Phase V
Phase W
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Phase U
Phase V
v
Phase W
v
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-20
-30
-40
0
-50
-10
-60
Failed unit 1.E+5 1.E+6
Amplitude (dB)
-30
-40
-50
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HV LV
Figure 5.25 Case 9 HV and LV open-circuit measurements before and after the short-circuit test
The transformer passed the short-circuit test therefore no internal inspection was required.
5.4.3 Case 10 Successful short-circuit test
The unit is a three-phase transformer rated 47 MVA, 120/26.4 kV, YNd1.
Figure 5.26 illustrates the measurements before and after short-circuit tests. The measurements are
essentially identical except for the resonance associated with the core magnetization. Only one phase
is shown, the other phases show similar behaviour.
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0 0
Before Before
-10 -10
After After
-20
-20
-30
Amplitude (dB)
Amplitude (dB)
-40 -30
-50 -40
-60 -50
-70
-60
-80
-90 -70
-100 -80
1.E+1 1.E+2 1.E+3 1.E+4 1.E+5 1.E+6 1.E+7 1.E+1 1.E+2 1.E+3 1.E+4 1.E+5 1.E+6 1.E+7
Frequency (Hz) Frequency (Hz)
Amplitude (dB)
-40 -40
-50 -50
-60 -60
-70 -70
-80 -80
-90 -90
-100 -100
1.E+1 1.E+2 1.E+3 1.E+4 1.E+5 1.E+6 1.E+7 1.E+1 1.E+2 1.E+3 1.E+4 1.E+5 1.E+6 1.E+7
Frequency (Hz) Frequency (Hz)
Figure 5.27 Case 11 HV open-circuit measurements on phase 1 (left) and phase 3 (right)
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After SC 1
After SC 2
After SC 3
Figure 5.28 Case 12 Measurements before and after three consecutive short-circuit tests
The unit was untanked and it was found that the w-phase LV winding had slightly buckled (Figure 5.29).
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Common winding
Tertiary winding
Figure 5.30 Case 13 Common and tertiary windings measurements before and after the short-circuit test
The unit was untanked and damage (lead movement, axial collapse and spiralling) to the phase C
tertiary winding was found (Figure 5.31).
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5.4.7 Case 14 Slight displacement of leads showing possible twisting of the winding
This unit is a three-phase autotransformer rated 250 MVA, 400/155 kV, YNa0.
The only measurement available is the open-circuit configuration from the 400 kV terminal to neutral.
The variation observed in Figure 5.32 is very subtle and could be attributed to measurement setup.
A failure occurred during the repeated dielectric tests.
Figure 5.32 Case 14 HV to neutral open-circuit measurements before and after the short-circuit test
As shown in Figure 5.33, internal inspection revealed a slight displacement of the leads indicating a
possible twisting of the phase C tap winding.
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Amplitude (dB)
-30 -30
-40 -40
-50 -50
-60 -60
-70 -70
-80 -80
-90 -90
5.E+3 5.E+4 5.E+3 5.E+4
Frequency (Hz) Frequency (Hz)
Figure 5.34 Case 15 Open-circuit measurements on failed unit (left) and sister unit (right)
The internal inspection revealed that an earthing connection between two core elements axially
separated by insulators was broken (high resistance). This fault introduced a series capacitance in the
circuit that affected the frequency response.
5.5.2 Case 16 Short-circuit inside winding
In this case, the unit is a three-phase transformer rated 17 MVA, 72/7.2 kV.
This failure mode can be detected by other diagnostic techniques like exciting current or turns ratio. It
can also be easily detected by FRA.
Figure 5.35 shows the HV open-circuit measurements. The resonance frequencies for all three phases
line up well in the frequency range above 10 kHz, however phase C (H3-H2) is deviated similarly to the
result of a short-circuit measurement in the low frequency range.
Figure 5.36 shows the LV open-circuit measurements. It is again clearly observed that phase C is
different (X3-X0).
Figure 5.37 shows the HV with LV shorted, with similar behaviour.
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-10
-20
Amplitude (dB)
-30
-40
-50
-60 X1X0
X2X0
-70
X3X0
-80
2.E+1 2.E+2 2.E+3 2.E+4 2.E+5 2.E+6
Frequency (Hz)
-20 -20
Reference
Failed
Amplitude (dB)
-40
Amplitude (dB)
-40
Reference
-60 -60
Failed
-80 -80
-100 -100
-120 -120
2.E+1 2.E+2 2.E+3 2.E+4 2.E+5 2.E+6 2.E+1 2.E+2 2.E+3 2.E+4 2.E+5 2.E+6
Frequency (Hz) Frequency (Hz)
Figure 5.39 Case 18 Open-circuit measurements on the series+common windings (left) and on the
common winding (right)
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6.1 Introduction
FRA is a comparative diagnostic method which needs a reference for comparison. As it is detailed in
[1], the reference can be a previous measurement on the same winding, a measurement from another
phase of the same transformer, or a measurement on an identical transformer. After defining the
reference, the new trace is compared with the reference for which different quantitative methods are
described in the literature. These methods can be categorized into three main groups:
algorithms based on numerical indices
algorithms based on a white box model
algorithms based on artificial intelligence (AI)
These three groups will be discussed in this chapter.
6.2.2 Definitions
The names of the indices along with their main references are shown in Table 6.2.
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Table 6.2 Names, abbreviations and main references of the numerical indices ([59])
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Y (i) X (i) 2
N
SD i 1
N 1
,
ID Y ( f ) X ( f ) df ,
Equation 6.4
Equation 6.3
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Y ( f ) X ( f ) df ,
AID Y ( f ) X ( f ) df , SDA
Equation 6.5
X ( f ) df
Equation 6.6
2
N
20 log10 Y (i) 20 log10 X (i) N Y (i) X(i)
1
ASLE i 1
, RMSE ,
i 1 1
N N
N X (i)
N i 1
Equation 6.7
Equation 6.8
Y (i) X (i)
(i) ,
1 N
e var() E E ,
X (i)
N i 1
1
E
N
(i), Equation 6.10
N i 1
Equation 6.9
𝑁
100 𝑌(𝑖) − 𝑋(𝑖)
𝑆𝑆𝐷 = ∑| | 𝑀𝐷 = max(𝑌(𝑖) − 𝑋(𝑖)
𝑁 𝑋(𝑖)
𝑖=1 Equation 6.12
Equation 6.11
N
N
( X (i) X )(Y (i) Y ) X (i) Y(i)
i 1
CCF i 1
CC ,
N N
X (i) Y (i)
2 2 N N
X (i) X Y (i) Y 2 2
i 1 i 1
i 1 i 1
Equation 6.13 Equation 6.14
2
Y (i )
i 1Y (i) X (i) 2
N N
1
i 1 X (i )
SSE , SSRE ,
N N
Equation 6.15
Equation 6.16
2
max( X (i ), Y (i ))
N N
i 1 min( X (i ), Y (i ))
1 [(Y (i) Y ) ( X (i) X )]2
SSMMRE , CSD i 1
N 1
N
Equation 6.17 Equation 6.18
2S XY
LCC
(Y X ) 2 SY2 S X2
Y (i) X (i)
N
i 1
1 N SE
S XY
N
( X (i) X )(Y (i) Y ) N
i 1
Equation 6.20
1 N 1 N
(Y (i ) Y ) 2 , X X (i )
SY2
N
N i 1 N ( X (i) X )(Y (i) Y )
i 1 i 1
LSE
N 2
X (i) X
N i 1
1
1 N
S X2 ( X (i ) X ) 2 ,
N i 1
Y
N
Y (i) Equation 6.21
i 1
Equation 6.19
∑𝑁
𝑖=1 min(𝑌(𝑖), 𝑋(𝑖))
∑𝑁
𝑖=1(𝑋(𝑖) − 𝑌(𝑖))
2
𝑀𝑀 = 𝑁 𝐽𝐷 =
∑𝑖=1 max(𝑌(𝑖), 𝑋(𝑖)) √∑𝑁 2 𝑁 2 𝑁
𝑖−1 𝑋(𝑖) √∑𝑖=1 𝑌(𝑖) − ∑𝑖=1 𝑋(𝑖)𝑌(𝑖)
Equation 6.22 Equation 6.23
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TB 812 - Advances in the interpretation of transformer Frequency Response Analysis (FRA)
These indices are calculated directly from the frequency response traces without additional calculation
and, therefore, are the easiest ones to implement. The values of the amplitude vectors used for
calculating these indices can be in their original form or on the dB scale. In the literature, a dB scale is
usually used. However, one can also use the original values, which leads to different results than when
using dB scale values. It is noteworthy that there is no report in the literature about the advantages of
each approach.
It is also noteworthy that all of the above indices result in zero for the intact case, except the indices CC
and CCF, which result in a one [48]. CC and CCF can be replaced with 1-CC and 1-CCF to homogenize
all the indices [65]. In this case, a value equal to zero declares a perfect match between the new FRA
trace and its reference.
6.2.3.2 Application examples from the literature
The indices derived directly from the full frequency response traces have different indications for faults.
Authors in [50] employed CC, SSE, ASLE, SSRE and SSMMRE for detection of winding mechanical
deformation. They showed that SSE, which is based on the distance between two traces, is very
sensitive to a large change in amplitude around the peak, which is indicative in frequency response
measurements. Figure 6.2 shows an example of large amplitude variations.
-20
-30
Magnitude (dB)
-40
-50
-60
-70
0 100 200 300 400 500 600 700 800
Frequency (kHz)
Figure 6.2 Amplitude variation around resonance points which affects some indices
Reference [50] also shows some of the limitations of CC. As an example, if Y cX , in which c is a
constant, CC equals 1, indicating no deviation in the traces although the traces are completely different.
Then, [50] derives SSRE and SSMMRE from SSE. However, these demonstrated weak sensitivity to
variations around the trough points (Figure 6.2). Reference [50] describes that ASLE has the best
performance among the other indices by overcoming the aforementioned defects. It declares that ASLE
has the best relationship with the visual changes in the traces. Furthermore, [50] reports 90% accuracy
when ASLE is used to detect the fault by comparing the traces recorded from different phases of the
same transformer.
Reference [40] uses CC and ED to examine the sensitivity of FRA to different types of mechanical
changes. Authors indicate that CC is insensitive in the case where the frequency response trace only
moves vertically with respect to its reference, without variations in the overall form. In such cases where
CC doesn’t show a fault, some have used two indices, ED and CC, simultaneously. Reference [34]
highlights the inability of CC to respond to a constant difference between frequency responses. As a
result, it seems that using only CC for interpretation is not sufficient. Implementing more than one index
at the same time is also proposed in other studies [48]. Reference [66] also addresses CCF, ASLE and
σ as the mostly used spectral indices and implements them successfully to compare a simulated model
with the measured frequency response trace.
Reference [58] introduces ED and compares it with numbers of other indices. It emphasizes that the
linearity of the indices versus the severity of the fault is important. Reference [58] also calculates ED in
different frequency ranges and implements them for defining the fault type.
Reference [43] extracts three indices from the phase response only and recommends including the
phase response in the interpretation due to its wide variation in case of faults. However, the phase
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response alone does not always show a regular change with the fault severity. Reference [60] proposes
a new index, CD, which includes both the phase response and the amplitude response. This index
shows a regular change with the fault severity. This paper shows that including the phase response in
the interpretation increases the sensitivity of the index and also decreases the vulnerability of the index
to variations in the measurement setup.
Reference [43] uses CC, ASLE and SD for detecting the axial and radial fault in three large transformers.
It reports that all of three indices can show a fault though CC fails to detect axial displacements less
than 1% of the winding height. Therefore, it is a less sensitive index. This reference employs the indices
for the phase and sister unit comparison and explains that the fault detection is possible only for severe
faults. It also takes 1% of axial displacement to set criterion limits for the indices.
Reference [35] introduces E and σ as an index because E is zero when the traces are identical or when
their difference has an average value of zero. The σ is zero for a constant amplitude difference between
frequency responses. Therefore, these two indices show a good immunity to noise. This reference also
performs a sensitivity check between numbers of indices. The E shows a regular change versus axial
shift, but no clear trend for the radial deformation. The CCF and σ show monotonic behaviour toward
axial and radial shift, except they are reversed. This contribution shows that evaluation of indices for
different frequency ranges can discriminate between the radial and axial fault.
Reference [48] employs a number of indices for defining the type, level and location of a fault. This
reference divides the frequency range into three bands and detects the fault type using the indices
calculated in different frequency bands. It also provides information about the monotonicity of the indices
for various fault severities. It concludes that SDA does not show a regular change versus the fault
severity. Moreover, it indicates that CCF is a less reliable index compared to others. It also proposes to
analyse numbers of indices together, to more precisely determine the state of the winding.
The Chinese standard has defined a criterion to detect deformation inside the transformer based on the
correlation coefficient factor (CCF) [6]. In this standard, three frequency ranges have been described as
follows:
LF: 1-100 kHz
MF: 100-600 kHz
HF: 600-1000 kHz
The interpretation is based on a relative factor, Rxy, which is defined using:
where CCF is calculated using Equation 6.13. Table 6.3 provides the limits based on the RLF, RMF, and
RHF, which are Rxy in the LF, MF, and HF range, respectively.
Table 6.3 Level of deformations based on Rxy
Degree of deformation of
Limits for the relative factor, RXY
the winding
Severe deformation RLF < 0.6
Obvious deformation 0.6 ≤ RLF < 1 or RMF < 0.6
Slight deformation 1.0 ≤ RLF < 2.0 or 0.6 ≤ RMF < 1.0
Normal winding 2.0 ≤ RLF, 1.0 ≤ RMF and 0.6 ≤ RHF
Reference [35] has used these limits for a 400 kVA transformer and reports that they can detect a radial
deformation and an axial displacement, except for an axial displacement lower than 1 cm. Similarly, [34]
reports on two 100 MVA transformers where the transformers have obvious deformations but the
Chinese standard fails to show deformations, indicating a normal winding in both cases.
6.2.4 Indices based on resonance frequencies
In each FRA trace, there are several peak and trough points which are respectively called resonance
and anti-resonance points in the literature. The following indices are based on the amplitude and
frequency of these points. Correspondingly, it is necessary to find the peak and trough points first.
Afterwards, the following formulas can be used to calculate these indices, in which the subscripts Y and
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X refer to the new and the reference frequency response trace, respectively, A(i) and f(i) are the
amplitude and the frequency of the i-th resonance or anti-resonance point, and AF is the area below the
frequency response trace between two anti-resonance points, as described in [35].
1 K
mda AFY (i) AFX (i) , Equation 6.24
K i 1
A AX ,i ,
1 K
mad Y ,i Equation 6.25
K i 1
f f X ,i ,
1 K
mfd Y ,i Equation 6.26
K i 1
AY ,i AX ,i
N
IAD , Equation 6.27
i 1 AX ,i
fY , i f X , i
N
IFD , Equation 6.28
i 1 f X ,i
N AY ,i
Fa , Equation 6.29
i 1 AX ,i
N fY ,i
Ff , Equation 6.30
i 1 f X ,i
N AY ,i
Wa wai , Equation 6.31
i 1 AX ,i
N fY , i
Wf w fi . Equation 6.32
i 1 f X ,i
*wai and wfi are the weight factors for the i-th resonance point, and their calculation is explained in detail
in [37].
Figure 6.3 illustrates a sample frequency response trace measured from a 6 kV/400 V, 600 kVA
distribution transformer. The resonance and anti-resonance points are shown on the trace. Determining
the peak and trough points may seem simple, but particularly in the case of noise in the measurements,
detecting the true peak and trough points is tricky and may introduce errors to the indices. The inset of
Figure 6.3 magnifies the last trough point in the trace. The question then becomes whether the trough
point is at point 1 or point 2. In the case of small deformations, where peak and trough points do not
change much, a noise induced change from choosing point 2 over point 1 can readily result in ascribing
deformation in the transformer where there was none.
-25
Resonance points
Anti-resonance points
-30
Magnitude (dB)
-35
-40
1
2
-45
-50
0 200 400 600 800 1000 1200
Frequency (kHz)
Figure 6.3 Resonance and anti-resonance points in an FRA trace
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Equation 6.33
After fitting the rational function, two indices can be calculated as follows:
PY ,i PX ,i
N
SDP , Equation 6.34
i 1 PX ,i
aY ,i
m n
b
FI i 1
.
i 1 Y ,i .
Equation 6.35
m n
a X ,i b
i 1 i 1 X ,i
where subscripts Y and X refer to the new and the reference trace, respectively, Pi is the i-th pole of the
rational function, a and b are the coefficients of the numerator and denominator of the rational function,
and m and n are the estimation order of the numerator and denominator polynomials, respectively.
It should be noted that the estimation of the rational function is the most difficult task. Furthermore,
rational functions with different orders can be fitted into a single trace, resulting in different values for
the indices. Moreover, [38] reports the sensitivity of this algorithm to the starting pole allocation. This
means that different starting poles for the estimation may lead to dissimilar final poles for one trace,
which means differences in the related indices.
Reference [64] utilises the vector fitting method and defines FI based on the numerator and denominator
coefficients of the fitted rational function. It reports a successful fault severity detection using the FI.
Moreover, it indicates that the FI demonstrates different ranges of values for various faults and,
therefore, it can be used for fault type discrimination. Similarly, [45] employs vector fitting and SDP,
which is based on the frequency response pole location, to prove that SDP shows a regular change
versus three different steps of axial displacement. However, the changes are small compared to the
value of the index.
Despite these successful uses, there are some serious shortcomings in the vector fitting method.
Reference [38] states that pole-zero allocation using the vector fitting method is dependent on the
degree of rational function, the iterations number, and the location of the starting poles. This contribution
segments the frequency response trace between each two local minimums and then, fits second or third
order functions to each segment to estimate the starting poles. It then implements the vector fitting
algorithm using these estimated poles as starting poles. It is shown in [38] that this method demonstrates
better fitting accuracy. However, [38] states nothing about further interpretation experiences.
6.2.6 Vector based method using a sliding window
Several contributions use different frequency ranges for the application of numerical indices. While the
identification of frequency ranges associated with the main transformer components is challenging, it is
evident that there is no generally applicable frequency limit for each range as this depends on the
physical size of the transformer and the ratings of the windings. Therefore, relying on fixed frequency
ranges [5] can lead to erroneous conclusions. Moreover, as described above, numerical indices are
sensitive to the width of frequency sub-bands, consequently, the values of these indicators change with
the change of frequency limits. Thus, it is not possible to set threshold values for numerical indices which
could serve as objective criteria for transformer winding fault detection.
Focusing on these challenges, [71] and [72] use the sliding window approach with two different
numerical indices. In this method, the whole frequency response is scanned in order to cope with the
problem of defining fixed frequency sub-bands. The numerical index is calculated in a window with a
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specific width and this window is moved from the starting frequency to the ending frequency with a
specific step (Wstep), as shown in Figure 6.4.
In [71], an index called Standard Deviation of Difference (SDD) is introduced (Equation 6.36). Using the
sliding window approach, a vector of SDD, called winding assessment factor, is obtained characterizing
the differences between two frequency response measurements as a function of frequency. Hence, the
winding assessment factor and measured frequency responses can be presented on the same graph.
The winding assessment factor is calculated as
Z ( j) Zw(i)
WS 2
j 1
Winding assessment factor SDD (i ) 2
WS 1
Z (i ) X (i ) Y (i )
X ( j)
1
Xw(i )
WS j 1
WS
Y ( j)
1
Yw(i )
WS j 1
i 1, 2,3...N
f 200
WS 10 6 res
200
Where X and Y are the amplitude vectors of curve 1 and 2, respectively. X(i) and Y(i) are the ith element
of these vectors. Xw(i) and Yw(i) are the means of the ith window. fres is the number of data points per
decade and WS is the window size.
In the international standard IEC 60076-18 [2], the measurement frequency resolution is specified at
200 points per decade minimum. To take into account the effect of different frequency resolution, window
size is made variable and calculated from Equation 6.36. In this way, the effect of different frequency
resolutions is also considered. Figure 6.4 illustrates the basic principle of the presented method. The
representation of the method for identifying the degree of deviation between two frequency response
signatures of a three-phase transformer is shown in Figure 6.5.
For fault diagnosis, the minimum value of the SDD (MSDD) should be assessed. In [71], the applicability
of the method is discussed through six case studies, where the method is applied to frequency response
signatures of real power transformers with and without deformations. The results show the advantage
of this methodology, as it successfully ascertained the deviations in all faulted transformers. Based on
the presented case studies, an objective criterion is also proposed for quantitative assessment of
transformer mechanical faults. As the proposed criterion was only tested on a few transformers, the
method is considered as tentative. The details can be found in [71].
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Figure 6.5 Representation of the winding assessment factor SDD for a three-phase transformer
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representing the windings. The second uses finite element modelling to numerically reproduce the
electromagnetic behaviour of the windings.
6.3.2 Lumped high-frequency modelling
Equivalent electric circuit models of transformer windings have been used by some investigators to
identify faults from the measured frequency responses [73, 74]. The parameters of the models
representing the frequency responses can be calculated using the details of the transformer design [75]
or can be estimated by using terminal measurements [76]. Studying the effects of changes in model
parameters on the frequency responses (as measured at the terminals) helps reveal correlations
between the frequency response variations and faults [77] and identify the nature of the faults. This
method can be used to estimate the location of the faults [76, 77]. It is also used to detect non-
mechanical failures in a transformer [78].
There are different approaches for creating a high-frequency lumped model. In this example, the
windings are divided into several sections, and each section is then represented by different circuit
parameters. Figure 6.6 shows the elements normally used for each section [60]. Each element is also
described in Table 6.4.
Elements Description
Rs Series resistance of each section
Ls Series inductance of each section
Cs Capacitance between adjacent sections
Cg Capacitance between each section and the earthed plate near it
Gg, Gs, GHL Conductance representing the dielectric loss in the insulation system
CHL Capacitance between sections of LV and HV windings
M Mutual inductance of each section to the sections of the same or the other winding
There are two approaches for defining the model elements. In the first approach, the elements are
defined based on the transformer geometry and analytical equations. Reference [75] details these
formulas. It is also possible to run an optimisation algorithm after the analytical calculations to reach a
higher agreement between the model output and real measurements. In the second approach, the data
of the internal geometry are not available, and the elements are estimated from the terminal
measurements using optimization algorithms or artificial intelligence methods [79].
It is shown in [74] that in a model winding, if a deviation is observed when subsequently acquired
frequency response data are compared, it is possible to figure out which of the three circuit elements of
the equivalent circuit, namely, series capacitance, shunt capacitance or self-inductance, is responsible
for the observed change. Furthermore, it can also be inferred whether the pertinent circuit element has
increased or decreased in comparison with its initial value. The proposed approach requires frequency
response measurements but does not require reference measurements. In [74], the applicability of the
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method is verified to a limited extent for both disc and interleaved winding designs. Experimental results
are in good agreement with those predicted by simulation and analytical studies.
It is shown in [76] that by using certain properties of driving-point functions and adopting an iterative
circuit synthesis approach, the location, extent, and type of change introduced in a model winding can
be identified based only on frequency response measurements. In this study, a model winding is used,
and based on its measured natural frequencies and pertinent winding data, an equivalent circuit is
synthesized. Next, changes are introduced at different locations in the model winding, and its natural
frequencies are measured. Corresponding to every new set of measured natural frequencies, a new
circuit is synthesised with topology remaining unchanged. A comparison of these circuits with the
reference circuit shows that a mapping could be established between changes introduced in the model
winding and those predicted by the synthesized circuits. Many case studies are presented by
considering continuous-disc and interleaved winding representations. Reasonably good results are
obtained in this paper, and it concludes that localising changes based on frequency response
measurements is feasible.
Based on frequency response measurements on a single continuous-disc winding of a transformer, it is
demonstrated in [77] how faults introduced at different positions along the winding can be localised with
reasonable accuracy. In this paper, discrete changes were simulated, e.g., short-circuiting a few turns
within a disc (i.e., predominantly an inductive change) and/or addition of some tens of pF capacitance
between a disc and earth (i.e., predominantly a capacitive change). Natural frequencies are determined
by open-circuit and short-circuit frequency response measurements, in addition to measuring effective
resistance, shunt capacitance and inductance. The proposed method aims at using the measured data
to iteratively synthesize a lumped-parameter ladder network, corresponding to each set of
measurement. Comparing such synthesized circuits with a reference (or fault-free) circuit reveals the
location and nature of a fault. Results presented in this research demonstrate the potential of this
method.
In [80], a 400 kV disc winding consisting of 86 discs is used to study whether the detailed model is able
to represent the behaviour of large windings in a frequency response form. In addition, disc space
variation is analysed experimentally and mathematically. The accuracy of the model to identify the disc
space variation is verified with the help of the measured frequency responses.
The following results are verified for the test object using measured data:
The detailed RLC model can represent the frequency responses of the test object up to
approximately 400 kHz
The most important finding is that the model parameters calculated by geometrical dimensions
need to be tuned with the help of an optimization method
The optimized model represents the disc space variation effects on frequency responses
accurately
Reference [79] demonstrates the applicability of this modelling approach by simultaneously fitting each
model to the corresponding frequency response data sets without a priori knowledge of the transformer’s
internal dimensions, and then quantitatively assessing the accuracy of key model parameters. This
paper has presented a novel modelling approach which can be used to simulate frequency response
measurements conducted on three-phase power transformers. It is proposed in this paper that the
resulting models can be used as a tool to support FRA interpretation by providing a flexible test bed for
parameter sensitivity analysis. To demonstrate the modelling approach, models for high-voltage end-to-
end open-circuit, low-voltage end-to-end open-circuit, and capacitive inter-winding measurements were
derived for Dyn-connected transformers. The frequency response measurement procedure resulted in
nine unique frequency responses (three connection permutations for each of the three frequency
response measurement types). A constrained nonlinear optimization algorithm was then applied. This
algorithm simultaneously estimated each of the model frequency responses for the corresponding
frequency response data using a common parameter set. The estimation results are satisfactory for
each frequency response measurement.
To confirm the physically representative nature of the frequency response models, several parameters,
whose values could be accurately determined through internal inspection, were compared against their
estimated counterparts. These parameters are all within a reasonable tolerance of their actual values,
verifying the physically representative nature of the models. The applicability of the proposed method in
the interpretation of FRA is then demonstrated by changing the model parameters to simulate the effect
of winding buckling on the transformer’s frequency response.
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Reference [81] proposes a similar technique to estimate a model that has fewer nodes and can
accurately predict the behaviour of a transformer in a wide range of frequencies. This model is intended
to be used in accurately modelling the transient behaviour of transformer windings. In the proposed
method, based on the frequency response measurements, N dominant resonances are determined, and
it is experimentally shown that the winding has N-1 hidden resonances. Using this idea, the authors
suggest using a 2N-1 section ladder network, which has a minimum number of nodes and can accurately
model the behaviour of the transformer winding. The parameters of this model are determined by
minimizing the error function by using the genetic algorithm. The close agreement between the
simulation and measurement results on the windings of a 20/0.4 kV and 1,600 kVA transformer verifies
the accuracy of the proposed method. However, this paper does not use the model for the FRA
interpretation, and it is not known how the parameters of the limited sections should be modified to
model the mechanical changes.
6.3.3 Physical parameters extracted from frequency response measurements
Rather than modelling the physical components of the transformer using lumped or distributed
parameter models in a more accurate way, a simple and easy approach for extracting the most relevant
physical parameters of the equivalent circuit of a transformer from frequency response measurements
is proposed.
The methodology for the extraction of the physical parameters is illustrated in Figure 6.7. Different
parameters can be extracted from each type of frequency response.
From the end-to-end open-circuit measurement: the magnetizing inductance (Lm), the core
resistance (Rm), the parallel capacitance (Cg), the series capacitance (Cs) and the main mutual
coupling inductance (Lmci). The Lmci is not represented in the equivalent circuit shown in Figure
6.7.
From the short-circuit measurement: winding resistances (R1+R2) and self-inductances (L1+L2)
can be obtained.
From the capacitive inter-winding measurement: the capacitance between windings (C12) can
be extracted.
From the inductive inter-winding measurement: the turns ratio of the transformer (N1/N2) can be
derived.
The complete description of this approach with the detailed equations and explanations can be found in
[82].
L12 R12
Lm Rm Cg Lmci Cs
(L1+L2) (R1+R2)
Inter-winding Inter-winding
Capacitive FRA Inductive FRA
Test Test
Cs1 C12 Cs2
R1 L1 L2
R2
Lm
Cg1 Rm Cg2
C12 N1 N2 N1/N2
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based high frequency FEM model of transformer windings which can calculate the frequency response
of a transformer by considering frequency dependent losses. The main purpose of the high frequency
FEM model is to directly obtain the frequency response traces without solving and evaluating circuit
models. The FEM model also provides an accurate determination of self and mutual inductances
between coils and inter-turn and inter-disc capacitances. Furthermore, it incorporates all frequency
dependent losses such as eddy current effects (skin and proximity effect) in the coils, and dielectric
losses in the insulation structure. Figure 6.8 shows the actual and FEM model of continuous disc
windings [83].
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The sensitivity of different connection schemes was analysed, and it was noticed that for the
tested winding, the inter-winding connection schemes have the best sensitivity for detecting a
disc space variation fault.
6.3.5 Summary on algorithms based on white-box models
In general, circuit and FEM models need details of the internal geometry which are usually not available
for all transformers. They are then mostly used by academic institutions to study FRA and by transformer
manufacturers to optimize their winding design for dielectric performance. The 3D FEM approach is
useful to generate data for developing FRA interpretation, for instance simulating the various mechanical
failure modes or studying the effect of the windings’ electrical properties on the frequency response of
transformer.
Some methods estimate the elements from only the terminal measurements. It is possible to extract
physical parameters from the frequency response measurements and compare these numerical values
with a previous reference measurement. This approach does not require a detailed knowledge of the
internal geometry and is thus applicable for general FRA applications.
Circuit models give details about internal physical behaviour which can be used for further interpretation,
namely discriminating the fault and its location. For example, changes in capacitances and mutual
inductances in certain locations can show the fault type and location. The potential of using the output
of such models for cases without reference is shown in some contributions.
Some mechanical changes are difficult to model using circuit models and the precise simulation of the
fault is very important to identify minor winding deformation. The FEM models can overcome this
limitation without solving the complex circuit models, which is the major novelty of this method. However,
they require comparatively significant computation time and memory for 3D calculations.
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Leave
RN Class j
IN
IN IN
IN
Leave
Class j
Leave Leave
Class j Class j
Different kinds of indicators can be used for condensing information of frequency response data. In this
contribution, the use of correlation coefficients (CC) was considered. Before the calculation of CC
coefficients, the frequency response plots were divided into 5 frequency sub-bands (LF1, LF2, MF, HF1
and HF2), according to the algorithms presented in [92]. Then, in each of these frequency sub-bands,
CC coefficients were calculated for both the amplitude and phase plots. As a result, a total of 10
indicators were extracted. The indicators were numbered from 1 to 10, where 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 correspond
to the CC coefficients calculated for the plot of the amplitude in the frequency sub-bands LF1, LF2, MF,
HF1 and HF2, respectively. In a similar way, indicators 6, 7, 8, 9 and 10 correspond to the CC
coefficients calculated for the plot of the phase in the five frequency sub-bands.
After some trials with different topologies, two independent classifiers were determined: one for the
classification of low frequency failure modes and the other for the classification of high frequency failure
modes. The performance against cross-validation is good, as 82% of the instances were correctly
classified [92].
6.4.3 Neural networks
AI methods have been of great interest lately for different applications, namely classification problems.
Using these methods, it is possible to classify the changes in the frequency response traces and connect
them to different fault types and even fault locations. Here, a brief explanation is given of artificial neural
networks (ANN), one the most common methods for the classification purpose. As Figure 6.10 shows,
an ANN problem consists of neurons which are divided into three groups: inputs, outputs, and hidden
layers. In an ANN problem, the data are fed to the input neurons. Then, the algorithm calculates the
output of each neuron, which is a function of its inputs and some weight factors:
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(ASLE), absolute difference (DABS), min-max ratio (MM), comparative standard deviation (CSD), root
mean square error (RMSE) which have been introduced in [51, 57, 97-102]. An ANN-based multilayer
feed-forward neural network using a back-propagation algorithm is proposed. The proposed algorithm
was trained and tested with actual field data. The results show that the algorithm can recognize the
different deviations, whether minor, moderate or significant.
6.4.4 Summary on algorithms based on artificial intelligence
There are several AI algorithms, and each one has its own characteristics. This method can use a
combination of several indices for the classification. It can also employ the outputs of the circuit model
for comparison, thereby combining the previous methods.
Because it is by nature an estimate, two runs of this method on the same case can produce different
output. A database, not generally available, is required to train the models. Some contributions propose
using the outputs of circuit models as a database. However, the applicability of these models for a
transformer fleet is itself an issue. Each algorithm can have different numbers of inputs, outputs, middle
layers, and functions, and there is no unique approach for them in the literature.
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7.1 Introduction
To expand the understanding of numerical indices, this chapter provides a literature review of the
experience with numerical indices and evaluates all the candidate numerical indices on a single platform
to provide a deeper understanding of their characteristics for the assessment of transformer frequency
response signatures. The numerical indices analysed here are calculated directly from the trace data
values (amplitude and phase) as they are the easiest to implement.
In the analysis presented in this chapter, it is assumed that the frequency response measurements are
free from measurement system or other undesirable influences discussed in Chapter 4, which is an
important preceding step to avoid misinterpretation of frequency responses.
Case Description
1 1 MVA distribution transformer windings
10 steps of axial displacements, each step 5 mm
2 1 MVA distribution transformer windings
5 steps of axial displacement, each step 1 mm
3 1 MVA distribution transformer windings
5 steps of radial deformation, each step 2.5 mm
4 1 MVA distribution transformer windings
5 steps of disc space variation, disc 2-3, each step
1 mm
5 1 MVA distribution transformer windings
5 steps of disc space variation, disc 3-4, each step
1 mm
6 160kVA, 10.5kV/400V cast-resin transformer
5 steps of axial displacement, each step 2 mm
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(a) Axial displacement (b) Radial deformation (c) Disc space variation
Figure 7.1 Experimental setup of 1 MVA distribution transformer windings [103]
7.2.2 Monotonicity
Monotonicity is a property which characterises the increasing and decreasing behaviour of an index.
For a monotonic index, the value of the index always increases with an increasing difference between
two curves. A good numerical index should exhibit monotonic behaviour against increasing severity of
mechanical faults. Usually more severe faults increase the deviations in the frequency response traces
and consequently an index should give higher values for larger deviations. Conversely, if an index is
non-monotonic, it cannot be used to define the extent of a mechanical fault or to quantify the same.
Typical behaviours of some monotonic and non-monotonic indices are shown in Figure 7.3.
The detailed results of monotonicity are presented in Table 7.2. The first six cases are used to check
monotonicity by evaluating indices in the 10 kHz to 1 MHz frequency range, and four connection
schemes (open-circuit, short-circuit, capacitive inter-winging and inductive inter-winding) are
considered. In Table 7.2, a small tick () denotes a monotonic behaviour of an index while a small cross
(x) represents a non-monotonic behaviour. The result shows that different numerical indices have
different behaviours in different cases. A good index should hold monotonic behaviour in all the cases,
even in all connection schemes. Consequently, all the indices that showed non-monotonic behaviour in
one of more cases are discarded from the list of appropriate numerical indices. Under this criterion, most
of the indices including CCF, CC, LCC, SD, CSD, ED, RMSE, ALSE, SE, SSE, and JD are purely
monotonic, and these indices will be evaluated using the next criterion.
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Figure 7.3 Monotonic and non-monotonic behaviour of indices against different extents of radial
deformation fault
Table 7.2 Monotonicity of the numerical indices
7.2.3 Linearity
Linearity is a property of a mathematical relationship that allows it to be graphically represented as a
straight line. To understand the linearity of the numerical indices, the indices are normalized and plotted
in a single graph as shown in Figure 7.4. From a linearity point of view, different numerical indices have
different behaviours against each fault step.
To quantify the linearity of numerical indices, a regression analysis was performed. This statistical
method determines the degree to which two variables are linearly coupled. The fault steps and the
normalized values of the numerical indices are taken as input variables. The output of the regression
analysis is the coefficient of determination that ranges from 0 to 1. The value of coefficient of
determination equal to 1 indicates a complete linear relation. The results of the linearity check are
presented in Figure 7.5. The coefficient of determination reported here is the average of all six cases.
The result shows that indices ASLE, LCC, CCF, ED, SD, CSD, RMSE, SDA, MM, SE and JD exhibit
good linear behaviour while indices CC, SSE, SSD and LSE are weaker in this respect, even if the
linearity coefficient exceeds 0.9. It is important to note that indices such as ED, SD, CSD and SE are
actually the distances between two FRA traces and these have a linear relationship with the fault
severity. However, indices such as SSE and LSE are in fact the square of the distance between FRA
traces and they exhibit a parabolic characteristic as shown in Figure 7.4. This parabolic behaviour makes
them less linear against fault steps.
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7.2.4 Sensitivity
According to the principle of frequency response measurement, both frequency and amplitude can
change with the change of the impedance of the transformer. Therefore, an appropriate index should
be sensitive to both the frequency and amplitude shifts. Reference [40] explains that CC has some
deficiencies in this respect, and goes on to derive SSRE and SSMMRE from SSE. However, they
demonstrate weak sensitivity to variations around the trough points as shown in Figure 7.6. To evaluate
the sensitivity of numerical indices against frequency and amplitude shifts, a frequency response is
calculated from a simple RLC series circuit in which horizontal and vertical shifts are applied by varying
the values of circuit elements.
Figure 7.6 Large amplitude variation around some anti-resonance points in frequency response of a
34 MVA, 237/5.65 kV transformer
At first, the resonance frequency is reduced by 1%, 3%, 5%, 10% and 20% by varying the inductance
(L) in the circuit. Secondly, the amplitude of the frequency response is reduced by 1%, 3%, 5%, 10%
and 20% by varying the resistance (R) of the series circuit. The results are demonstrated in Figure 7.7.
To explain the horizontal and vertical sensitivities of the indices, the values of three indices (CC, CCF
and LCC) are compared against different steps of frequency shifts and amplitude changes as shown in
Figure 7.8. It can be seen that each index has a different ability to detect frequency and amplitude
changes. Moreover, it is important to note that indices are less sensitive in detecting amplitude changes.
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To compare and quantify the sensitivities of all the numerical indices, the vertical sensitivity of each
index is plotted against its horizontal sensitivity in one chart as shown in Figure 7.9. Moreover, these
sensitivities also depend on the frequency band. To extend the discussion of sensitivities of indices in
relation to evaluated frequency band, the horizontal and vertical sensitivities are compared for wide (10–
100 kHz) and short (20–50 kHz) frequency bands, as shown in Figure 7.9.
The results show that the numerical indices CSD, ED, LCC, SE, SDA, SD and RMSE possess good
sensitivity to detect both frequency shifts and amplitude changes. In contrast, the indices CCF (used in
Chinese Standard), CC, ASLE and SSE have low sensitivities to detect amplitude changes. It is
important to note that sensitivities of all the indices are improved by narrowing the evaluated frequency
band except ASLE and RMSE.
(a) Percentage shift of resonance frequency (b) Percentage change in amplitude (Vertical shift)
(Horizontal shift)
Figure 7.7 Frequency responses of RLC circuit for discussion of horizontal and vertical sensitivities
Value of index
Value of index
(a) (b)
Figure 7.8 Comparison of CC, CCF and LCC against (a) frequency shifts and (b) amplitude changes
Values of normalized indices
Figure 7.9 Comparison of horizontal and vertical sensitivities of indices for two frequency bands: 10–
100 kHz and 20–50 kHz
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7.3 Discussion
The results show that different indices behave differently within each evaluation criterion (monotonicity,
linearity, sensitivity and data size dependency). Looking back at Table 7.2, it is clear that most of the
indices are monotonic, which allows us to draw conclusions on the extent of change between two
frequency response traces. From the linearity perspective, almost all monotonic indices show a good
linearity; only four indices are weaker in this aspect. As for sensitivity, the indices CSD, ED, LCC, SE,
SDA, SD and RMSE stand out from others in terms of showing good sensitivity to detect both frequency
shift and amplitude changes. From a data size dependency viewpoint, the indices CCF, LCC, SDA and
SE are the least influenced by data size.
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All selected cases except Case 2 (associated with a three-phase bank and a spare unit, which can be
considered as sister transformers) were accompanied by reference frequency response measurements
performed on the same transformer at an earlier date. These serve as references for the index analysis.
For Case 2, indices are calculated considering the spare sister unit of the three-phase bank as the
reference response. There is no fault in Cases 10 and 11, and the ratio is merely taken between two
phases; these cases serve as a reference to show how index analysis performs on a healthy
transformer. The frequency response measurements provided with each case were not performed with
the same instrument. Consequently, the frequency resolution and number of measurement points per
decade are not the same among the cases, which may influence the index values even if they are
normalized to the number of points in each frequency band.
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LCC over CCF cannot be demonstrated, as the faults associated in the selected cases influence both
the resonant frequencies and amplitude.
Table 8.2 Results of the index analysis on the affected phase/winding by the faults presented in six
selected case studies
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Table 8.3 Results of the index analysis on the unaffected phase/winding by the faults presented in six
selected case studies
Figure 8.1 Index ratio of low frequency band (1–10 kHz) between affected and unaffected phase/winding
by the fault in each case study
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Figure 8.2 Index ratio of mid frequency band (10–500 kHz) between affected and unaffected
phase/winding by the fault in each case study
Figure 8.3 Index ratio of high frequency band (500 kHz–1 MHz) between the affected and unaffected
phase/winding by the fault in each case study
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Figure 8.4 Application of assessment factor SDD in Case 2 open-circuit measurements on the LV winding
of two identical transformers
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Figure 8.5 Application of assessment factor SDD in Case 5 open-circuit measurements on the series
windings
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Figure 8.7 Application of assessment factor SDD in Case 9 HV and LV open-circuit measurements before
and after short-circuit test
Figure 8.8 Application of assessment factor SDD in Case 10 HV and LV open-circuit measurements on
phase A
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Figure 8.9 Application of assessment factor SDD in Case 11 HV open-circuit measurements on phase 1
After SC 2
After SC 3
Figure 8.10 Application of assessment factor SDD in Case 12 measurements before and after second and
third short-circuit tests
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Figure 8.11 Application of assessment factor SDD in Case 13 common and tertiary measurements before
and after the short-circuit test
Figure 8.12 Application of assessment factor SDD in Case 14 HV to neutral open-circuit measurements
before and after the short-circuit test
Figure 8.13 shows the minimum values of the SDD factor for each case. SDD indicator can detect all
the faulted cases with good sensitivity. It is worth noting that MSDD has lower values for the cases with
deformations than for those which are normal. Hence, it is possible to set a threshold to the minimum
values of SDD as a diagnostic criterion, disregarding the frequency ranges. In all presented cases a
value of −5 differentiates the deformed cases from the healthy ones regardless of the size and winding
design of the investigated transformers.
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Figure 8.13 Minimum value of winding assessment factor SDD (MSDD) in cases 2 to 14
8.5 Discussion
The results presented in this chapter provide a good basis and guideline for standardizing processes
for FRA interpretation.
In index ratio analysis based on six selected cases, which can be considered as another criterion that
serves as a way of comparison among indices, the indices LCC (or 1-LCC), CCF (or 1-CCF), SSE and
SSRE show high sensitivity to faults in the case studies, i.e., the relative change in index between
healthy and faulty phase/winding.
There are however a number of other points that must be considered and unified before using numerical
indices as the standard method. First, the definition of a standardized method for selecting frequency
bands in different transformers to unify the implementation of indices. Secondly, the number of points in
a frequency band can affect the value of any index and this should be considered for the establishment
of a threshold. The sliding window method resolves the problem of fixed division of frequency sub-bands
by providing the deviation between frequency response signatures as a function of frequency. An
example of this approach using SDD demonstrated a good sensitivity to detect deformed windings on
nine cases selected from the WG database.
Several complementary indices may also be used to detect faults by harnessing the ability of each index
to detect a particular change in the frequency response. A further step towards objective interpretation
would use values of several indices to train an appropriate machine learning algorithm with supervised
learning.
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9. Conclusion
In conclusion:
The basis for FRA interpretation is the understanding of the frequency response and the factors
that can influence the measurement.
The selection of case studies presented and analysed in this document can be used as
reference examples to show how a mechanical displacement can be detected using FRA.
Academic contributions help complement the limited number of real case studies data with
laboratory investigations and numerical modelling.
Based on academic contributions and an analysis on selected case studies, some indices were
identified as the most promising for further investigation.
The WG recommends that:
CIGRE continues to offer forums for sharing case studies of FRA interpretation (workshops,
preferential subjects, etc.).
The international transformers community uses the most promising indices for further
development of objective FRA interpretation.
Academic institutions continue to support FRA interpretation related research.
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