POWERTECH LABS EQUIPMENT PERFORMANCE

Frequency Response Analysis Test

The frequency response analysis test is a very A Recurrent Surge Generator (RSG) is used to
sensitive technique for detecting winding movement generate the low voltage pulse which is applied to the
caused by loss of clamping pressure or by short circuit transformer HV winding terminal H1. The LV winding
forces. This test has been used extensively to terminals X1 and X2 are, in turn, grounded through a
successfully detect winding movements. current shunt. The applied voltage (to terminal H1) and
the voltage across the current shunt (representing the
Test Method capacitively coupled current into the secondary winding)
The frequency response analysis (FRA) method of are recorded on a digital oscilloscope. The recorded
detecting transformer winding movement is based on transients are stored for processing and archiving.
taking a "signature” of the winding. A short low voltage
impulse (300 V) is applied to one winding. The applied
impulse and the capacitively coupled current in another
winding are recorded. Changes in capacitances
between the two windings as well as changes in the
inter-turn winding capacitances - caused by winding
movement - are reflected in the change of the
waveshape of the coupling current. The current and
voltage measurements are recorded with a digital
oscilloscope and stored for later analysis.

Fast Fourier transform (FFT) analysis is done on the

recorded data (applied voltage and capacitively coupled
current). The FFT of the current is divided by the FFT
of the voltage to obtain an admittance plot. The current
and admittance waveforms recorded are compared with
results from transformers of the same type or with
results previously recorded on the same transformer.
Winding movement is detected by looking for
Sample Test Results
differences in these results. By using the admittance
plots, any variation caused by changes in the applied A set of custom made measuring and circuit leads is
voltage waveform is eliminated. used for the test. The test setup and lead design data
are recorded to ensure that changes detected in the
To carry out an FRA test the transformer to be
data are not due to changes in the setup.
tested is isolated from the system by disconnecting the
leads at the transformer bushing. The test is carried out The figure shows an example of the test results
from the top of the transformer tank in order to minimize recorded for a 500/230 kV, 400 MVA transformer
test lead length and to prevent interference problems. before and after re-clamping. The difference in the
signature shows how the FRA test is an effective tool
for measuring winding movement. The test results were
confirmed by internal examination of the transformer.

Powertech Labs Inc. Phone 604 590-7500

12388 – 88th Avenue Fax 604 590-5347
Surrey, B.C. Canada V3W 7R7 Visit our web site at http://www.powertechlabs.com