8 I8IELEERANSACTIONS ON INDUSTRY APPLICATIONS, VOL. IA-16, NO.
I, JANUARY/FEBRUARY 1980
Transformer Voltages, Part I: Analysis of Voltages Listed in
ANSI C57, C84, and C92 Standards
JOHN C. DUTTON,
Abstract-The voltages listed in the American National Standards
Institute (ANSI) C57 transformer standards are analyzed, tabular
comparisons with those listed in the ANSI C84 and C92 preferred voltage
standards are provided, and classifications for them as "preferred," "non-
preferred," or "non-standard" are recommended. Observations are
included pertinent to the pattern of the tabulations which are intended to
contribute to improved standardization and coordination of ANSI
Committees C57, C84, and C92. Informa.tion on International
Electrotechnical Committee (IEC) voltages is included in the Appendix for
comparsion. Finally, questions are raised in conclusion to stimulate
constructive thought, and hopefully action, in the U.S. electrical industry
to improve voltage standardization.
INTRODUCTION
THIS paper was prepared primarily to present information
to American National Standards Institute (ANSI) Com-
mittees C57 (Transformer), C84 (Voltage Ratings for Electric
Power Systems and Equipment), and C92 (Preferred Voltage
Ratings for AC Electrical Systems Operating at Voltages
above 230 kV). However, it is felt that the information
included may also be of interest to others-particularly IEEE
Technical Committees and those concerned with transformers,
power systems, and related quipment.
The growth and evolution of power systems has been
accompanied by extensive standardization which has been of
great benefit to society and the electrical industry, both users
and producers. This paper examines the status of the standard-
ization of voltages. Perusal of the paper reveals substantial
variations in the effectiveness of the standardization of volt-
ages, depending upon the voltage class involved.
The author's exposure to various transformer-related
standards activities has provided a unique opportunity to
scrutinize closely the interrelationships between various
technical groups and standards. Certain patterns of voltages
and problems have become apparent which are felt worthy
of the investigation and analysis presented in this paper
with the purpose of providing data for improved planning and
coordination relative to "preferred," "non-preferred," and
"noin-standard" voltages. A future companion paper, "Trans-
former Voltages-II: Analysis of Possible Transformer Volt-
ages Under Various Operating Conditions," is planned to
Paper IPSD 79-1, approved by the Industrial Plants Power Systems
Cotinmittee of the IEEE Industry Applications Society for presentation
at the 1979 Industrial and Commerical Power Systems Technical Con-
terence, Seattle, WA, May 14-17. Manuscript released for publication
July 16, 1979.
The aulthor is witlh the Mediunm Transtormer Department, General
Electric Company, Rome, GA 30161.
0093-9994/80/0100-0008$00.75 © 1980 IEEE
SENIOR NlNEBER. IEEE
analyze the voltages which may be present in transformers un-
der various operating conditions.
The Appendix is also included to provide information
which will allow comparison with similar International Electro-
technical Committee (IEC) standards activities. Such compari-
son may have substantial future significance, in view of the
probable imminence of the General Agreement on Trade and
Tariffs Proposal (GATT) now being negotiated internationally
by the United States in preparation for consideration by
Congress, since the present direction of GATT negotiations
appears to place the IEC and the International Standards
Organization (ISO) standards in positions of preference world-
wide, including the United States. It is hoped that thoughtful
consideration of the data presented in this paper may contri-
bute to increasing the productive efficiency of the U.S. elec-
trical industry to meet the many challenges facing the country
both at home and abroad.
DEFINITIONS AND SYMBOLS
Certain definitions are quoted below for background infor-
mation.
General (fro m A NSI C92. 2-1 9 78)
System Voltage. A root-mean-square (rms) phase-to-
phase power frequency voltage on a three-phase alter-
nating-current electrical system.
lfaximum System VXoltage. The highest rms phase-to-
phase voltage that occurs on the system under normal
operating conditions, and the highest rms phase-to-phase
voltage for which equipment and other system coimlpo-
nents are designed for satisfactory continuous operation
without derating of any kind. (This voltage generally
provides a per-unit base voltage for insulation coordina-
tion studies and for the application of surge arresters.
When defining maximiium system voltage, voltage tran-
sients and temporary overvoltages caused by abnormal
system conditions such as faults, load rejection, etc. are
excluded. However, voltage transients and temporary
overvoltages may affect equipment operating perform-
ance and are considered in equipnment application.")
A'ominal System Vloltage. The system voltage by
which the system may be designated and to which cer-
tain operating characteristics of the system are related.
(The nominal voltage of a system is near the voltage level
at which the system normally operates and provides a
per-unit base voltage for system studies such as load
flows. To allow for operating contingencies, systems gen-
erally operate at voltage levels about 5'-c-1 0% below the
maximum systein voltage for which systenm components
are designed.)
DUTTON: TRANSFORMER VOLTAGES, PART I
Voltage Classes
"Low-Voltage System (electric power). An electric
system having a maximum rms ac voltage of 1000 volts
or less." (ANSI/IEEE 100- 1977.)
"Medium-Voltage System (electric power for industrial
and commercial systems only). An electric system having
a maximum rms ac voltage above 1000 volts to 72,500
volts." (ANSI/IEEE 100- 1977.)
"High-Voltage System (electric power for industrial
and commercial systems only). An electric system having
a rms ac voltage above 72.500 volts to 242,000 volts."
(ANSI/IEEE 100-1977.)
"Extra High-Voltage (EHV). A maximum system
voltage that is greater than 242 kilovolts but less than
1000 kilovolts" (ANSI C92.2-1978.)
"Ultra High-Voltage (UHV). A maximum system volt-
age that is equal to or greater than 1000 kilovolts."
(ANSI C92.2-1978.)
Note-It is suggested that the ANSI C92 Committee con-
sider minor revisions to achieve consistency with the ANSI/
IEEE 100-1977 definitions in the EHV and UHV definitions
when next revising ANSI C92.2. The following are suggested.
"Extra high-voltage (EHV). An electric system having a
rms ac voltage above 242 kilovolts but less than 1 000
kilovolts."
"Ultra high-voltage (UHV). An electric system having a
rms ac voltage equal to or greater than 1000 kilovolts."
Chart Symbols
Voltages included in various ANSI Standards are tabulated
in Tables I-V, and categorized with respect to their status using
the following symbols:
* recommended as a standard voltage in ANSI C84.1,
1977 or C92.2-1978 (sometimes referred to as "prefer-
red");
o recognized voltage, not recommended for new systems
or new voltage levels in existing systems in ANSI C84.1-
1977 (sometimes referred to as "non-preferred");
x other identified voltages, not listed in ANSI C84.1-
1977 or ANSI C92.2-1978 (sometimes referred to as
"non-standard").
Note-for brevity, the tables in this paper use the terms
"preferred voltage," "non-preferred voltage" and "non-
standard voltage."
OBSERVATIONS
"Standardization Effectiveness" of Voltages Listed in Various
Tables
Voltage tables have been prepared to show the interrela-
tionships between the voltages identified in ANSI Standards
C84.1-1977 and C92.2-1978 and the various ANSI product
standards for various types of distribution and power trans-
formers.
9
1) "Low" Voltages: Examination of Table I shows that
with a few exceptions transformer standards have generally
listed the "preferred" and "non-preferred" voltages of ANSI
C84.1-1977. There is an anomaly present in the ANSI C84.1-
1977 listing of 120/240 as a single-phase voltage since the
standards for single-phase transformers list 240/120 instead.
2) "Medium" Voltages: Examination of Tables II, III, and
IV shows a very mixed pattern with "non-preferred" and
"non-standard" voltages predominating-depending in part on
how grounded-Y voltages are considered. It is significant to
note that the "A V%" steps between some adjacent voltages
are quite small.
3) "High," "Extra-High, "gnd "Ultra-High" Voltages: Ex-
amination of Table V shows excellent coordination with ANSI
C84.1-1977 and C92.2-1978. All voltages are "preferred"
except one "non-preferred," and there are no "non-standard"
voltages listed.
"A rchaelogical " Voltage Patterns
1) A group of voltages appear to be present only in certain
standards which originated approximately 20-30 years
ago. The particular standards involved include C57.12.10,
C57.12.20, C57.12.30, and C57.12.40.
2) The voltages involved include 2520,4360Y/2520, 5040,
8720Y/5040, 7560, 7970, 6900/119SOY, 13090Y/7560,
22900, 34400, 43800, and 67000. None of these are listed as
"preferred" or "non-preferred" voltages in ANSI C84.1-
1977. The reasons for the origination of these "non-standard"
voltages are not known to the author.
3) It appears that it would be desirable to re-examine the
need for these voltages in the standards involved and take
appropriate action when the standards are next revised.
4) Certain of these voltages are relatively close to ANSI
C84.1-1977 voltages, and it appears might be changed to the
C84.1 values. Examples include 22 900 V-23 000 V, 34 400 V-
34 500 V, 43 800 V-46 000 V, and 67 000 V-69 000 V.
Grounded-Y Voltages
1) In recent years the U. S. utility industry has developed
a series of ANSI Standards (C57.12.21, C57.12.22, C57.12.23,
C57.12.24, C57.12.25, and C57.12.26) which involve ground-
ed neutral Y-Y connected transformers.
2) There are various reasons for this choice which have
been well described previously. However, it should be realized
that the choice of Y-Y system has significant effects on the
design of the transformers involved.
3) It is felt that it would be helpful to many in the industry
if there was a better understanding as to where grounded-Y
and Y-Y voltages fit in the thinking and plans of the electrical
industry (considering ANSI C84 and other ANSI Commit-
tees). It would be desirable to clarify this matter in view of
its effects on other transformer users (such as industrials),
transformer manufacturers, and others who may be affected
by the results of this trend. Perhaps the ANSI C84 Committee
might consider if information on grounded-Y voltages should
in some way be recognized in ANSI C84. I.
10 lIi 1'xI"FANSA.CTIONS ON IN ID(J STRN' AI'FI'L(C'.A'1I(INS, VOl LA I6 NO. 1. JANUARY/1 VLBRUA\RY 1980

TABLE I
COMPARISON O1 ANSI C84.1 NOMINAL SYSTLNI VOLTAGES \WITH ANSI C57 TRANSFORMER V`OLTAGIIS:
"LOW" VOLTAGEl S

ANSI
STANDAR D
NUMBERS
ANSI C84.1-1977 0 0 *
ANSI C57.12.10- 1977
ANSI C57.12.30-1977
ANSI C57.12.20-1974 * O X x X
I
ANSI C57. 12.21 -1979 X _
-t
ANSI C57.12.22-1979 * o

---C7-1-2-1-9-7- __---- ---t-- .--- --

ANSIC57.12.23-i9782
ANSI C57.12.24 -1978
x .
*

ANSI C57.S2.25-1975 _
ANSIC52S *C26
1975
ANSI C57,12.40 1975p44

SYMBOLS PREFERRED" VOLTAGE. LISTED IN ANSI C84.1-1977 DR ANSI C92.2 1978

0 "NON -PREFERRED- ANSI 084.1-1977 OR ANSI 092.1- 978
VOLTAGE. LISTED

| "NON -STANDARD' VOLTAGE, NOT LISTED IN ANSI C84 i-,977 OR ANSI C92. -1978
NOTES III ALL VOLTAGES LISTED INVOLVE THE LOWER VOLTAGE WINDINGS OF TRANSFORMER.
121 7HE TOP LINE LISTING VOLTAGES IS DIVIDED. THREE-PHASE VOLTAGES
|WHENi LISTED IN STANDARDS) ARE SHOWN IN THE UPPER ZONE.
SINGI-E-PHASE VOLTAGES (WHEN LISTED IN STANDARDSI ARE SHOWN IN THE LOWER 21ONE,

"EV ISED ;§p, F 'P-'NT IT 5%f.s{,'r '

TABLE If
COMPARISON OF ANSI C84.1 NOMINAL SYSTEM VOLTAGES WITH ANSI C57 TRANSI ORME R VOLTAGES:
"M DILJM" VOLTA\GES

LISTED VOLTAGES-IN KILOVOLTS (NOTES 1,2

4 I1GY 4 16Y/ 4.36Y/ 8.32GY/ 8.32Y/ 8.72Y/
ANSI
3 2.4
4
3 2.52
252 24 2.4 2.52 4.16 4.36 4.8 5.04 4.8 4.8 |504 9 721 7.56 7.62 7.97

STANDARD < -__

i__ i__ |__ 2 |44
7.2IE48650
2.4 2.52/
NUMBERS IQI 4.16SY 4.35Y Y 8.32Y 8.72Y
ANSI C84.1- 1977 0 0 0 0 0

Al NSIC57.12.10-197700o X 0 xLO 00 X 0 0 <00

AlkNSI C57.12.30- 197' 0 x 0 x 0 x ox

00

AiNSI C5712.20-197400 0 0 0 00 0 0
|X x x|
AkNSI 057.12.21-1979
-----A -4--- t---- -- t- -t- - - t--t
---F- -t--

AkNSI C57.12.22-1979
- -- --
-
- - - -H- - - --5-F-t---
--t-t-8
--t---n

AkNSI C57.12.23 1-978 i<

A NSI C57.12.24-1978 _--
0 0 0

KNSI
A - - --
--------
057.12_5 19754-t-
_ -1-
I_ ___1
-
_T>X --
_W__W__
AkNSI C57.12.26-1975 0 0: 0 x

AkNSI C57.12.40- 1975 0

AV% INOTE 31 S.D 4.8 10.1 5.0 4.8
54
23 0 0.8 4.6

SYMBOLS * -PREFERRED- VOLTAGE, LISTED IN ANSI C84.1-1977 OR ANSI C92.2-1978

0 -NON -PREFERRED" VOLTAGE, LISTED IN ANSI C84.1-1977 OR ANSI C92.1-1978
X 'NON -STANDARD' VOLTAGE, NOT LISTED IN ANSI C84.1- 1977 OR ANSI C92.1 - 1978
COLUMN-TO-COLUMNA V % COMPARISON NOT APPLICABLE
NOTES THE TOP LINE LISTING VOLTAGES IS DIVIDED. THREE-PHASE VOLTAGES
(WHEN LISTED IN STANDARDS] ARE SHOWN IN THE UPPER ZONE.
SINGLE -PHASE VOLTAGES (WHEN LISTED IN STANDARDS) ARE SHOWN IN THE LOWER ZONE
121 POSITIONS OF SYMBOLS INDICATE IF THE HIGHER OR LOWER WINDING OF THE TRANSFORMER
IS INVOLVED. LEFT INDICATES HIGHER VOLTAGE WINDING. RIGHT- INDICATES LOWER VOLTAGE WINDING.
t3) 5V%=. 100i V2-VI' VI
14) THREE-PHASE. THREE-WIRE Y VOLTAGES ARE NOT LISTED, IA FEW ARE INCLUDED IN ANSI C57.12.20-19'4.
15) THREE-PHASE GROUNDED Y CONNECTIONS (EXAMPLE 34.5 GY/19.2) ARE SHOWN IN SEPARATE COLUMNS.
DUTTON: TRANSFORMER VOLTAGES, PART I 11

TABLE III
COMPARISON OF ANSI C84.1 NOMINAL SYSTEM VOLTAGES WITH ANSI C57 TRANSFORMER VOLTAGES:
"MEDIUM" VOLTAGES
LISTED VOLTAGES-IN KILOVOLTS (NOTE I, 2
ANSI
I
w AN 12 OGY,
6.93 2.OOY27.247GY/ 7.2
6.93 13.09Y/ 7.62
12.47Y/ 7.56 137.2/ 7.97
i3.2GY/ 7.62 13.8GY/ 7.97
13.8Y/
9.43 I16.34GY6 16.34Y/
9.43
12.0 12.47 12.6 13.2 13.75 13.8 14.4 16.34
STANDARD < 16.9 6.93/ 12.47GY/ 7.2/ 7.56/ 13.25Y/ 7.621 13.85Y7 7.97/ t6.34GY/ 9.43/ _ - _
NUMBERS a- 11.95Y 12.0Y 7.2 12.47Y 13.09Y 7.62 13.2Y 7.97 13.8Y 9.43 16.34Y
ANSI C84.1- 1977 _ 0 _ * 0
ANSI C57.12.10-1977 <x _X - ** Q.xx _x
x xx
ANSI C57.12.30-1977 X Q - _ x_
ANSI C57.12.20-19741 __ 7< __ X __ _ x __ _ _____
ANSI C57.12.21-1979 x x x x
ANSI C57.12.22-1979 _ ______X_ X __ X . X
ANSI C57.12.23-1978 X__ ___X ___ __ _ X X
ANSI C57.12.24- 1978 ** ) X__ X X_ X X
ANSI C57.12.25-1975 X_____ x X
ANSI C57.12.26-1975 X X
ANSI C57.12.40-1975 * XX
AVS I(NOTE 31 10.421 W _3.[92 5.0 08 4-6 X 18.4 7 3.92 0.11 14.-74-4161 0.364.3 13.41
SYMBOLS * PREFERRED" VOLTAGE. LISTED IN ANSI C84,1-1977 OR ANSI C92.2-1978
o "NON-PREFERRED" VOLTAGE. LISTED IN ANSI C84.1-1977 OR ANSI C92.1-1978
X -NON-STANDARD" VOLTAGE, NOT LISTED IN ANSI C84.1-1977 OR ANSI C92.1-1978
WK COLUMN-TO-COLUMNA V x COMPARISON NOT APPLICABLE
NOTES (1I THE TOP LINE LISTING VOLTAGES IS DIVIDED. THREE-PHASE VOLTAGES
(WHEN LISTED IN STANDARDS) ARE SHOWN IN THE UPPER ZONE.
SINGLE-PHASE VOLTAGES (WHEN LISTED IN STANDARDS) ARE SHOWN IN THE LOWER ZONE.
(21 POSITIONS OF SYMBOLS INDICATE IF THE HIGHER OR LOWER WINDING OF THE TRANSFORMER
IS INVOLVED. LEFT- INDICATES HIGHER VOLTAGE WINDING. RIGHT- INDICATES LOWER VOLTAGE WINDING.
(31 & V% = IOO(V2-VII / VI
141 THREE-PHASE, THREE-WIRE Y VOLTAGES ARE NOT LISTED. (A FEW ARE INCLUDED IN ANSI C57.12.20-1974.(
(5I THREE-PHASE GROUNDED Y CONNECTIONS (EXAMPLE 34 5 GY/19.21 ARE SHOWN IN SEPARATE COLUMNS.

TABLE IV
COMPARISON OF ANSI C84.1 NOMINAL SYSTEM VOLTAGES WITH ANSI C57 TRANSFORMER VOLTAGES:
"MEDIUM" VOLTAGES

LISTED VOLTAGES-IN KILOVOLTS (NOTE , 2

20.78. 6Y 2.6/2.90Y,' 24.94GY/ 24.94Y/ 22.9123.0 27.06 34.507l 34.5Y7 34.4 34.5 36.23GY/
3' 12.0
STANDARD 13*2 13.8 14.4 (4.4 19.92 19.92 20.92 43.8 4.0

AN
M
L ERSI a.20.78Y 13.2 22.86Y 23.9Y 14.4 24.94Y 19.92 34.5Y 36.23Y
ANSI C84.1- 1977 0 * O *0 0
ANSI C57.12.10-1977 -=
0 0

__ __ X ___ ._ - -_ ___
ANSI C57.12.30-1977 X - x X X X X
ANSI C57.12.20 1974 X_ X X_

ANSI C57.12.21-1979 X___

ANSI C57.12.23-1978
ANSI C57.12.21 1979
X__ _ _ _
) x__
ANSI C57. 2.24-1978 X _x
ANSI C57.12.25-1975 >X
ANSI C57.12.26-1975 7<X
ANbI C57.12.40 -1975 I*x-
-

A V %(NOTE 31 27.2 |0.0 W 4.54 W W 0.04 |4.35

X WT T|oo 5.0 5.02 45.7 1717.71 I| 12.98
SYMBOLS 0 'PREFERRED- VOLTAGE. LISTED IN ANSI C84.1-1977 OR ANSI C92.2-1978
0 -NON-PREFERRED- VOLTAGE. LISTED IN ANSI C84.1-1977 OR ANSI C92.1 (-978
"NON-STANDARD' VOLTAGE, NOT LISTED IN ANSI C84.1-1977 OR ANSI C92.1- 1978
'

COLUMN -TO -COLUMN A V % COMPARISON NOT APPLICABLE

NOTES 11) (WHEN
THE TOP LINE LISTING VOLTAGES IS DIVIDED. THREE-PHASE VOLTAGES
LISTED IN STANDARDSI ARE SHOWN IN THE UPPER ZONE.
SINGLE.-PHASE VOLTAGES (WHEN LISTED IN STANDARDS) ARE SHOWN IN THE LOWER ZONE.
121 POSITIONS OF SYMBOLS INDICATE IF THE HIGHER OR LOWER WINDING OF THE TRANSFORMER
IS INVOLVED. LEFT- INDICATES HIGHER VOLTAGE WINDING. RIGHT- INDICATES LOWER VOLTAGE WINDING.
13) A V% - 100V2-VI( / VI
(4) THREE-PHASE, THREE-WIRE Y VOLTAGES ARE NOT LISTED. ,A FEW ARE INCLUDED IN ANSI C57.12.20-1974.1
(5 THREE-PHASE GROUNDED Y CONNECTIONS (EXAMPLE 34.5 GY/19.2) ARE SHOWN IN SEPARATE COLUMNS.
I 2 IEEE TRANSACTIONS ON INDUSTRY APPLICATIONS, VOL. IA-16, NO. 1. JANUARY/FEBRUARY 1980

TABLE V
COMPARISON OF ANSI C84.1 AND ANSI C92.2 NOMINAL SYSTEM VOLTAGES WITH ANSI C57 TRANSFORMER
VOLTAGES: "HIGH," "EXTRA-HIGH," AND "UILTRA-HIGH" VOLTAGES

LISTED VOLTAGES-IN KILOVOLTS (NOTE 11

ANSI
STANDARD "HIGH" VOLTAGE "EXTRA-HIGH" VOLTAGE ' VOLTRA-HIGH"
NUMBERS _i_NOITE 4! (NOTE 4
I~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ I I~
X
15
I 138 161 230 345 500 765 1100 (NOTE 31
ANSI C841-1977 _ t_
ANSI C92.1-1978 I I
ANSI C57.1IZ.0- 1978 __ ______Q__ ____ __t_____ t
ANSI C57. 1 - 2141978 Q
ANSI C57.1.30-1977 * *

A V% (NOTE 2) 66.7 20.0 16.7

6 l 42.8 50.0 44.9 53.0 43.8
*PEVISED SLiPSEOtSENT TO PRESENTATION TO ADD NOTE D4.

SYMBOLS * "PREFERRED" VOLTAGE, LISTED IN ANSI C84.1-13977 OR ANSI C92.2-1978

0 -NON-PREFERRED" VOLTAGE, LISTED IN ANSI C84.1-1977 OR ANSI C92.1-1978

NOTES i; ALL VOLTAGES LISTED INVOLVE THE HIGHER VOLTAGE WINDINGS OF TRANSFORMER.
323 A V% - 100 V2-V 1.'V3
131 FROM THE FOREWORD OF ANSI C92.2-1978: 'IT IS EXPECTED THAT THE
NEXT VOLTAGE LEVEL TO BE ESTABLISHED WILL BE AS HIGH AS IS
TECHNICALLY AND ECONOMICALLY FEASIBLE AT THE TIME THAT
IT IS INTRODUCED.'
4) THE LAST NOTE OF ANSI C92.2-1978 STATES: "NOTE: NOMINAL SYSTEM VOLTAGES FOR EHV AND UHV ARE NOT STANDARDIZED. ASSOCIATEE
WITH EACH PREFERRED MAXIMUM SYSTEM VOLTAGE RATING, THERE MAY BE ONE OR MORE NOMINAL SYSTEM VOLTAGES. NOMINAL SYSTEM
VOLTAGES IN KILOVOLTS TYPICALLY USED WITH THE ABOVE PREFERRED MAXIMUM SYSTEM VOLTAGES ARE: 345, SAT, 765, 1100."

16 340 V Windings Description of "Groups" of Transformer Voltages

1) In recent years 16 340 V winding ratings have been add-
ed to several distribution transformer standards using insula-
tion levels and other characteristics normally associated with
15 kV windings.
2) The appropriateness of including the 16 340 V rating has
been questioned-primarily because it may exceed the "maxi-
mum system voltage" ratings of circuit breakers and separable
insulated connectors, which may be used with 16 340 V
transformers.
Tap Voltages
1) Unless one examines the values of tap voltages closely,
it is generally the impression that most transformers following
ANSI Standards (except, of course, those built with no taps)
have four 2.5 percent taps-usually two above and two below
the mid-tap, which is normally the rated voltage.
2) While this is true in some transformer standards, the
pattern is not universal. The group of standards which were dis-
cussed above and which began development 20 to 30 years ago
(particularly ANSI C57.12.10, C57.12.20, C57.12.30, and
C57.12.40), lists a number of tap voltages which vary from
the increasingly common pattern of 95 percent, 97.5 percent,
102.5 percent and 105 percent.
3) Unless there are good reasons for preserving these old
values as "standard," perhaps consideration should be given
to a standard tap voltage pattern which would use the 95 per-
cent, 97.5 percent, 102.5 percent, and 105 percent values.
Further, it may be desirable to consider listing taps as 95 per-
cent, 97.5 percent, 10.25 percent and 105 percent instead of
listing the actual voltages as is done now.
4) Of course, the old tap voltages (or any other voltages
specified) continue to be available on a "when specified"
basis when needed for parallel operation or other reasons.
1) Insulation Classes: Voltages commonly utilized can be
grouped into classes with common characteristics, and such
groupings are useful for reference and discussion.
a) In the past such groupings have commonly been based
on insulation using the term "insulation class." Insulation
classes in common use for many years included the following
series (from ANSI C57.12.00-1973, Table 4): 1.2, 2.5, 5, 8.7,
15, 18, 25, 34.5 46, 60, 69, 92, 115, 138, 161, 180, 196,
215, 230, 260, 287, 315, 345, 375, 400, 430, 460, 490,
520, and 545. Most realize that some of the "insulation
classes" listed above do not represent actual operating volt-
ages. "Insulation class" was a meaningful and useful term
until transformers with reduced insulation were developed to
utilize the improved surge arresters which resulted from tech-
nical development progress. For example, with the advent of
improved surge arresters, 230 kV transformers are built and
protected with "Basic Lightning Impulse Insulation Levels"
(BIL) of 1050, 975, 900, 825, 750, and 650 kV.
b) The term "insulation class" has had another problem
because it has also been used to describe insulation systems
according to their temperature capabilities. Liquid-immersed
transformers have used insulation systems with 1050C and
1200C capability. Dry-type transformers have used insulation
systems with 1500C, 1850C, and 2200C capability. Thus, the
term "insulation class" had a sort of "split personality," and
its continued use for both functions has been confusing.
c) Because of these various reasons, the term "insulation
class" has become outmoded and has been withdrawn from
some modern transformer standards. ANSI/IEEE 100-1977
lists "insulation class" as a deprecated term for transformers.
The 1979 revision of ANSI/IEEE C57.12.00 no longer in-
cludes reference to "insulation class" as described in a) above.
2) Nominal System Voltages: The term "nominal system
DUTTON: TRANSFORMER VOLTAGES, PART I 13

voltage" (defined earlier) is very useful in describing individual 12 470, 13 200, 13 800, and 16 340 as "delta or wye." This
voltage ratings, but does not provide a basis for classifying appears a bit ambiguous and in some cases leads to unusual
groups of ratings because each is a specific distinct voltage voltages which may not be intended (i.e.: 2400Y, 4800Y,
rating. 7200Y). Possibly the next revision should consider the de-
3) Nominal Voltage Class: "Nominal voltage class" is sirability of utilizing the more commonly used format in
suggested as a possible new term defined as: "A series of listing these voltages.
voltage levels identifying groups of closely associated system CONCLUSION
operating voltages whch share common characteristics."
a) This proposed new term, "nominal voltage class:' 1) This paper provides tables comparing the voltages
may be useful in providing an unambiguous description or actually listed in transformer product standards with those
reference for groups of transformers accordlng to their "nomi- included in ANSI C84.1-1977 and ANSI C92.2-1978, which

nal system voltage" ratings. It would provide a meaningful list the voltages '"recommended as standard voltages" (here-
replacement for "insulation class" in describing groups of in described as "preferred"); or "recognized voltages, not
operating voltages-with no indication or inference concermng recommended for new systems new voltage levels in existing
or

the BIL involved. systems" (herein described as "non-preferred"). Other voltages,

b) Using this concept, "nominal voltage classes" of which do not fall in either of the above categories, are herein
0.6, 2.5, 5, 8.7, 15, 25, 34.5, 461, 69, 115, 138, 161, 230, descrnbed as "non-standard."
345, 500, 765, and 1100 kV could be useful in describing 2) Examination of the voltage tables indicates the folowimg,
designs which fall into these classifications. a) In the "low voltage category" (1000 V and below),
c) Examples are 5 kV nominal voltage class-4160, a substantial proportion of the voltages listed are "preferred"
4800 V, etc.; IS kV nominal voltage class-12 OOOY/6930, or 4"non-preferred," with relatively few "non-standard" volt-
12 470Y/7200, 13 200Y/7620, 13 800Y/7970, 13 800 V, etc.; ages. However, there is an apparent anomaly with respect to
34.5 kV nominal voltage class-34 500Y/19 920, 34 500 V, the single-phase values of 120/240 and 2401120.
etc.; and similarly for other "nominal voltage classes." b) In the "medium voltage" category (above 1000 V
to 72 500 V), "non-preferred" and "non-standard" voltages
4) Description of Transformer Windings 600 Vand Less: predominate, and the "AV%" steps between some voltages
a) For reasons not known to the author, windimgs 600 V very small.
are

and less have in the past been described as being in the 1200 V c) In the "high, extra-high, and ultra-high voltage"
(or 1.2 kV) "insulation class." categories (above 72 500 V), most voltages are "preferred,"
b) This does not follow the usual pattem of past usage one is "non-preferred," and there are no "non-standard"
of the term "insulation class," since 1200 V is twice 600 V, voltages.
and the value of the "insulation class" (as originally applied) 3) A series of "observations" are presented to brimg to the
attention of ANSI Committees C57, C84, and C92 items
usually was approximately equal to the rated voltage of the
winding involved. identified as needs or suggestions for possible changes to be
c) If the suggestion described in 3) should be utilized considered in future revisions of standards,
by the transformer industry, one of the "nominal voltage 4) A new term "nominal voltage class" is described and
classes" should be 0.6 kV to describe windings 600 V and suggested for use in the transformer industry.
less. 5) In the preparation of this paper the author felt con-
fronted by emerging questions, some of which are shared
Identification of Voltages Listed in Transformer Standards below with readers with the hope that they may be stimulating.
I) It is suggested that consideration be given to identifying spaceda)"mediumreally
Do we need the rather large number of closely

listed voltages in transformer standards with respect to their voltages" which this study reveals?
b) Is the U.S. electrical industry utilizing its resources
status in ANSI C84.1 and C92.2 as "Preferred," "non-prefer- as efficiently as it could, with such a
red," and "non-standard." large number of voltages?
c) Is the failure to comprehensively recognize the effect
2) Such identification would provide useful guidance for of many nonstandard items on productivity adequately
system designers and others responsible for choosing voltag recognized?
ratings, and help to increase the usage of levels recognized by d) Would it be beneficial to the U.S. electrical industry
ANSI Committees C84 and C92. to take steps to make obsolete of these voltages-at
3) While this suggestion may be disturbing to those using least for new construction? some

voltages not listed in ANSI C84.1 or C92.2, it should be e) In view of the potentially important fiture effects
remembered that unisted voltages can always be obtained by of GATT negotiations on preferred standards, should the
user specification. electrical industry be participating more actively in IEC stan-
dards activities?
Miscellaneous
f) What would be the effects if IEC 38-1975, 'lEC
ANSI C57.12.24-1978 differs in its listing of voltages in Standard Voltages" (and it's amendment No. I, dated 1977)
Table I from the arrangement usually used in other trans- was to become the preferred standard in the United States?
fOrmer standards in listing 2400, 4160, 4800, 7200, 12 000, 6) It is the author's hope that this paper and the suggestions
14 14E14 I'RANSAC'TIONS ON INDUSTRY
and questions raised lherein will be useful to ANSI Committees
C57, C84, and C92, and others concerned, in improving the
quality, consistency, and coordiination of the various stan-
dards examined, and in improving the productivity of the U.S.
electrical industry.
APPENDIX
IEC STANDARD VOLTAGES
A. To provide additional pertinent information, selected IEC
data is reproduced to allow comparison of information pre-
pared by the IEC Technical Committee 8 in IEC Publication
38-1975, and Amendment No. 1, dated August, 1977.
B. The following IEC 38 data is included. (Data relating to
dc and traction system voltages are omitted.)
1) Section One-Definitions (from IEC 38-1975.)
2) Table I, from Amendment 1 to IEC 38, August 1977.
Please note that additional changes in Table I were to
be considered in May 1979.
3) Table III, from IEC 38-1975.
4) Table IV, from IEC 38-1975.
5) Table V, from Amendment 1 to IEC 38, August 1977.
SECTION ONE-DEFINITIONS
For alternating voltages, the voltages stated below are
r.m.s. values.
1. Nominal voltage of a system
Voltage by which the system is designated and to which
certain operating characteristcs of the system are referred.
2. Highest and lowest voltages of a system (excluding transient
or abnormal conditions)
2 1 Highlest voltage oJ a
s'ystemn
The highest value of voltage which occurs under normal
operating conditions at any time and at any point on the
system.
It excludes voltage transients, such as those due to system
switching, and temporary voltage variations.
2.2 Lowvest voltage of a sy,stem
The lowest value of voltage which occurs under normal
operating conditions at any time and at any point on the
system.
It excludes voltage transients. such as those due to system
switching, and temporary voltage variations.
3. Highest voltage for equipment.
Highest voltage for which the equipment is specified
regarding:
a) the insulation;
b) other characteristics which may be referred to this
highest voltage in the relevant equipment recom-
mendations.
The highest voltage for equipment is the maximum value of
the "highest system voltage" (see Sub-clause 2.1) for which
the equipment may be used.
Notes 1.-The highest voltage for equipment is indicated only for
nominal system voltages higher than 1000 V. It is understood
that, particularly for certain nominal system voltages, normal
operation of equipment cannot be ensured up to this highest
voltage for equipment, having regard to voltage sensitive
AMl'OLIC'ATIONS, VOL. IA-16, NO. 1. JANUARY/F I BRUARY 1980
chiaracteristies suLch as losses of capacitors, magnetizing
cuLrreit o0 tranlsormiiers. etc.
In such cases, the relevant recommiiiiendations must specifv the
limit to which the normal operation of this equipment can be
elnSLired.
-.--t is uLnderstood that thie equipment to be used in systems
having nominal voltage niot exceeding 1000 V should be
specified with reterence to the nominal system voltage onlv'
bothl for operationi and for insulationl.
* The standardization ot a.c. voltages lower than 100 V and of d.c.
voltages lower than 750 V is uLnder consideration.
TABLI' 1
A. C. s'stemns hiaving a nomtilinal voltage betwveen 100
Vf an d
1)000 V inchlsive anid related equipinent
In the followiing table, the three-phase four-wire systems
and single-phase three-wire systems include single-phase cir-
cuits (extensions, services, etc.) coinnected to these systems.
The lower values in the first column are voltages to neutral
and the higher values are voltages between phases. When only
one value is indicated, it refers to three-wire systems and
specifies the voltage between phases. The lower value in the
second column is the voltage to neutral and the higher value
is the voltage betweein lines.
The voltages in excess of 240 V/415 V are intended exclu-
sively for heavy industrial applications and large commercial
premises. A large number of voltages are in use for such
purposes, and the preferred values only are indicated.
Three-Phase Four-Wire or Single-Phase Three-Wire
Three-Wire Systems Systems
Nominal Voltage Nominal Voltage
V
120/24(0
220/3 80
230/4001)
240/415
277/4802)
660
1000
The nominal voltages for single-phase supplies to appliances slhall be
selected arnong the values of this table and shall normally not exceed
240 V.
Under normal systemn conditions, it is recommended that the voltage
at the supply terminals should not differ from the nominal voltage by
more than + I 0%.
1 The valLues 230/400 V will be, in future, the only IEC standard
voltage, and its adoption is recommended in new systems. The
voltage variations of existing systems at 220/380 V and 240/415 V
should be brought within the range 230/400 V ±10%. The reduc-
tion of this range will be considered in a later stage of standardiza-
tioin.
2 The value 500 V is used in some countries for three-phase tlhree-
\vire systems.
TAB1E III
A.C. tliree-phase systemns h7avinig a nominal voltage above I
k V azncl nzot exc eedinlg 33 k V and related equipment*
Two series of highest voltages for equipment are given
below; one for 50 Hz and 60 Hz systems (Series I), the other
for 60 Hz systems (Series II North American practice). It is
DUTTON: TRANSFORMER VOLTAGE, PART I 15

recommnended that only one of these series should be used in TABLE V

any one country. A. C three-phase systems having a highest voltage for
It is also recommended that only one of the two series of equipnent evceeding 245 k V1
vortay. s giver
comuini
nist1r%JaltaA f{or 4Zprioc
C1;1trIp al zOerieI IA sjtiouiu Lve vepr4
oh^11dA ho inI any5
usuS 1n Anwt 'riV
nnA
It is recommended that in any one geographical area only
country. one value in the following groups should be used for the
Series I 1i
eA.rTy
aeries
highest voltage for equipment:
245 kV (see Table IV)-300 kV-362 kV
Highest Volt- 362 kV-420 kV
Highest Voltage Nominal System age for Nomn
for Equipment voltage Equipment tilte11 VYNltJ1 age
aa 420 kV-525 kV
kV kV kV kV
Highest Voltage for Equipment
3.61) 3,31) 31 4,401) 4.161) kV
7,21) 6.61) 61
12 11 10 (300)
13.22) 12.472) (362)
13.972) 13.22) 420
14.521) 13.81) 5252)
(1 75) (15) 7653)
24 22 20 l0004)
26.42) 29.942)
363) 333) 1) The values indicated in parentheses should be considered as non-
36.52) 34.52) preferred values. It is recomnmended that these values should not
40.53) 353) be used for new systems to be constructed in future. The values
are voltages between phases.
* These systems are generally three-wire systems unless otherwise 2) The value 550 kV is also used.
indicated. The values indicated are voltages between phases. The 3) It is permissible to adopt values between 765 kV and 800 kV
values indicated in parentheses should be considered as non-pre- provided that the test values for equipment should be the same
ferred values. It is recommended that these values should not be as defined by the IEC for 765 kV.
used for new systems to be constructed in future. 4) An intermediate value between 765 kV and 1200 kV, suffi-
Notes ]- It is recommended that in any one country the ratio between ciently distant from these two values, will be introduced later in
two adjacent nominal voltages should be not less than two. the table if a certain region of the world considers it necessary. In
2.- In a normal system of Series I, the highest voltage and the
such a case in any one geographical area where the intermediate
lowest voltage do not differ by more than approximately value is adopted, neither the value 765 kV nor the value 1200 kV
+10%s from the nominal voltage of the system. In a normal should be used.
system of Series II, the highest voltage does not differ by Note-In the present table, the terms "a certain region of the world"
more than +5% and the lowest voltage by more than 10% and "geographical area" may indicate a single country, a group of
from the nominal voltage of the system. countries which agree to adopt the same voltage level, or a part of a
1) These values should not be used for public distribution systems. very large country.
2) These systems are generally four-wire systems.
3) The unification of these values is under consideration. REFERENCES
1f Dictionarv of Electrical and Electronics Terms. " ANSI/IEEE 100.
1977.
TABLE IV [21 Voltage Ratings for Electric Power Systems and Equipment (60 Hz).
AX C. three-phase systems having a nominal voltage above 35 ANSI C84.1. 1477.
k V and not exceeding 230 k V and related equipment* 13A Preferred Voltage Ratings for Alternating-Current Electrical Systems
and Equipment Operating at Voltages Above 230 Kilovolts Nominal,
Two series of nominal system voltages are given below. It is ANSI C92.2, 1978.
recommended that only one of the two series should be used [41 Requirements for Liquid-immersed Distribution, Power and Regulating
in any one country. Transformers, ANSI C57,12.00I 1979.
f 51 Requirements for Transformers 230000 Volts and Below, 833/958
It is recommended that in any one country only one value through 8333110417 kVA, Single-Phase; and 7501862 through 600001
in the following groups should be used for the highest voltage 800001100000 kVa, Three-phase, ANSI C57. 12.10. 1977.
for equipment: [61 Requirements for Load-Tap-Changing Transformers, 230000 Volts and
Below, 3750/4687 through 60 0001800001100000 VA, Three-Phase,
123 kV-145 kV ANSI C57. 12.30, 1977.
245 kV-300 kV (see Table V)-362 kV (see Table V.) [71 Requirements for Overhead-Type Distribution Transformers. 67000
Volts and Below;500 kVA and Smaller, ANSI C57. 12.20, 1974.
[8J Requirements for Pad-Mounted, Compartmental-Type, Self-Cooled,
Highest Voltage for Single-Phase Distribution Transformers with High-Voltage Bushings,
Equipment Nominal System Voltage High-Voltage;34500GRDY/19 92OVolts andBelow;Low-Voltage,2401
kV kV 120 Volts; 167 kVA and Smaller, " ANSI C57. 12.21, 1979.
191 Requirements for Pad-Mounted Compartmental-Type, Self-Cooled.
(52) 5) Three-Phase Distribution Transformers with High-Voltage Bushings.
72.5 66 69 High-Voltage, 34500GRDY11992. Volts and Below; 2500 kVA and
123 110 115 Smaller, ANSI C57 12.22. 1979.
145 132 138 1101 Requirements for Underground-Type Single-Phase Distribution
(170) (150) Transformers. with Separable Insulated High-Voltage Connectors, /00
245 220 230 kVA and Smaller; High-Voltage 24940GRDY/14000400 Volts and
Below, Low-Voltage 2401120, ANSI C57. 1223. 1978.
*
The values indicated in parentheses should be considered as non- fi1 Requirements for Underground-Tvpe Three-Phase Distribution
preferred values It is recommended that these values should not Transformers, 2500 kVA and Smaller; High-Voltage 24940GRDYI
be used for new -systems to be constructed in future. The values 14400 Volts and Below; Low-Voltage 480 Volts and Below, ANSI
are voltages between phases. C57.12.24. 1978
 IEEE TRANSACTIONS ON INDUSTRY APPLICATIONS, VOL. IA-16, NO. 1, JANUARY/FEBRUARY 1980
[121 Requirements for Pad-Mounted Compartmental-Type Single-Phase
Distribution Transformers with Separable Insulated High-Voltage
Connectors, High-Voltage, 24 940GRDY/14400 Volts and Below; Low-
Voltage, 240/120; 167 kVA and Smaller, ANSI C57.12.25, 1975.
[131 Requirements for Pad-Mounted Compartmental-Type, Self-Cooled,
Three-Phase Distribution Transformers for Use With Separable
Insulated High-Voltage Connectors, High-Voltage, 24 940GRDY/ 14400
Volts and Below; 2500 kVA and Smaller, ANSI C57.12.26, 1975.
[141 Requirements for Secondary Network Transformers, Subway and Vault
Types(Liquid-Immersed), ANSIC57.12.40, 1975.
[15]
Separable Insulated Connectors for Power Distribution Systems Above
600 V, ANSI C 119.2, 1974.
161 IEC Standard Voltages; and Amendment No. I to IEC 38- 1975. August
1977, IEC 38, 1975.
[171 D. S. Brereton and D. T. Michael, Significance of proposed changes in
AC system voltage nomenclature for industrial and commercial power
systems: I-Low-Voltage systems," IEEE Trans. Ind. Gen. Appl., vol.
IGA-3, pp. 504-513, Nov./Dec. 1967.
[181 . "Significance of proposed changes in AC system voltage
nomenclature for industrial and commercial power systems: 11-Medium
voltage systems," IEEE Trans. Ind. Gen. Appl., vol. IGA-3, pp. 514-
520. Nov./Dec. 1967.
1191 - "Developing a new voltage standard for industrial and commercial
power systems, ' in Proc. American Power Conf., vol. 30, pp. 733-751,
1968.
John C. Dutton (M'40-SM'48) was born in Illinois.
He received the B.S.E. degree with honors from
Swarthmore College, Swarthmore, PA, and the
0::0 M.S.E.E. degree from Rensselaer Polytechnic
_ g*
Institute, Troy, NY.
He has held various managerial and supervisory
positions with the General Electric Company in the
Power Transformer Department, Pittsfield, MA;
Corporate Research and Development Division,
Schenectady, NY; and is presently Consulting
Engineer, Standards, with the Medium Transformer
Department, Rome, GA. His assignments with General Electric have included
the General Electric Test Course, Transformer Design, Computer Application.
Development, and Standards. During recent years he has been extensively
involved in standards activities: particularly relating to liquid-immersed and
dry-type distribution and power transformers.
Mr. Dutton is a member of the IEEE Transformers Committee, a liason
member of ANSI Committees C84 and C92 (representing the IEEE
Transformers Committee), Chairman of the IEEE Delegation to the ANSI C57
Transformer Committee, and has served as chairman or a member of various
other transformer-related standards activities. He has receivedvarious awards.
including Sigma Tau Honorary Engineering Fraternity in 1939, the General,
Electric Power Systems Sector Engineering Award "For Professional and
Social Activities" in 1979, and the IEEE Transformer Committee Award "In
Recognition of Distinguished Service to the Committee" in 1978. He is a
Registered Professional Engineer in the States of Georgia and Massachusetts.