Elvim TFs - Use & Maintenance Guide EN

Use and Maintenance of
Oil-immersed
Distribution Transformers
Elvim range
Use and Maintenance of Oil-immersed Distribution Transformers - Elvim range / page 1

Elvim, Merlin Gerin and Telemecanique
become Schneider Electric
Moving our brands under the flagship brand Schneider Electric is an ambitious project that will
make things simpler for all our partners and customers.
Selection becomes simpler, the guarantee of equipment compatibility is reinforced and the
integration of recently acquired technologies is optimized. The products themselves remain the
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help you make the most of your energy, improve your efficiency and ensure the sustainable
development of your business.
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Gradually, all major product families will be marked “Schneider Electric”. Only the
product marking visual design changes. All the other specifications will remain the
same: Technical features, function, weight, quality, commercial reference, technical
information,… From the 2nd trimester 2009, oil-immersed distribution transformers will
be branded Schneider Electric and the name Elvim will become a range name.
From now on you will see

Use and Maintenance of
Oil-immersed
Distribution Transformers
Elvim range
The transformer is an electrical machine that allows the transmission
and distribution of electric energy simply and inexpensively, since its
efficiency is greater than 95%.
Through the brief description of the use and maintenance of the

oil-immersed distribution transformers, the present technical leaflet
provides useful information for the engineers, who are involved in the
selection, purchasing, installation, operation and maintenance of
transformers.

Contents
Section A: Use of Transformers

A.1 Transformer Types A.1.1 Classification of transformers according to the use page 4
A.1.2 Classification of transformers
according to the cooling method page 5
according to the insulating medium page 5
according to the construction of the magnetic circuit page 6
A.2 Elvim Distribution A.2.1 General characteristics page 7

Transformers A.2.2 Advantages of Elvim distribution transformers page 7
A.3 Transformer A.3.1 Magnetic circuit page 8

Manufacturing A.3.2 Windings page 8
Features
A.3.3 Metallic parts page 9
A.3.4 Assembly page 9
A.3.5 Cooling medium page 9
A.4 Transformer A.4.1 Tank page 10

Components A.4.2 Cover page 10
A.4.3 Lifting lugs page 10
A.4.4 Rollers page 10
A.4.5 Draining and sampling oil valve page 10
A.4.6 Neutral earthing link page 10
A.4.7 High voltage bushings page 11
A.4.8 Low voltage bushings page 11
A.4.9 Low voltage connectors page 11
A.4.10 Tap changer page 11
A.4.11 Voltage selector page 11
A.4.12 Transformer thermometer page 11
A.4.13 Oil conservator page 12
A.4.14 Buchholz relay page 12
A.4.15 Air dehumidifier page 12
A.4.16 Filling valve page 12
A.4.17 Oil level indicator page 12
A.4.18 Rating plate page 13
A.4.19 Tank earthing point page 13
A.4.20 Accessories of sealed type transformers page 13
A.5 Transformer tests A.5.1 Type tests page 14

A.5.2 Routine tests page 14
A.5.3 Special tests page 15
A.6 Transformer A.6.1 Rated power page 16
electrical A.6.2 Temperature rise page 16
characteristics
A.6.3 Ambient temperature page 16
A.6.4 Altitude of installation page 16
A.6.5 Short-circuit impedance page 16
A.6.6 Vector group page 16
A.6.7 No-load losses page 17

A.6 Transformer A.6.8 Load losses page 17
electrical A.6.9 Rated voltage page 17
characteristics
A.6.10 Frequency page 18
A.6.11 Noise page 18
A.6.12 Efficiency page 18
A.6.13 Short-circuit current page 18
A.6.14 No-load current page 18
A.7 Transformer standards page 19
A.8 Tolerances page 19
A.9 Transformer A.9.1 Overloading page 20

operation A.9.2 Parallel operation page 21
A.9.3 Load distribution of transformers in parallel operation page 21
A.10 Transformer order form page 22
A.11 Transformer A.11.1 Electrical utilities page 23

selection A.11.2 Industrial users page 23
A.12 Elvim A.12.1 Single-phase transformers,

transformers from 5 to 50 kVA, 20/0.231 kV page 24
series A.12.2 Three-phase transformers,
from 250 to 1600 kVA, 20/0.4 kV page 26
A.12.3 Three-phase transformers,
from 250 to 1600 kVA, 20/0.4 kV, with low losses page 28
A.12.4 Three-phase transformers, from 250 to 1600 kVA,
20-15/0.4 kV page 30
A.12.5 Three-phase sealed type transformers,
from 25 to 1600 kVA, 20/0.4 kV page 32
A.13 Examples A.13.1 Calculation of transformer efficiency page 34

A.13.2 Calculation of voltage drop page 34
A.13.3 Parallel operation of transformers page 35
A.13.4 Transformer selection page 35
Section B: Transformer installation and maintenance

B.1 Dimensions of transformer installation area page 36
B.2 Instructions for transformer installation page 37
B.3 Instructions for transformer maintenance page 37
B.4 Instructions for thermometer connection page 38
B.5 Instructions for the connection of the Buchholz relay page 39
B.6 Instructions for the connection of the air dehumidifier page 40
Schneider Electric Services page 41

Section A:
Use of Transformers
A.1 Transformer types

The transformers are classified into various categories, according to their:
(a) use,
(b) cooling method,
(c) insulating medium,
(d) core construction.
These categories are presented in the following subsections.
A.1.1 Classification of transformers according to the use

According to their use, the transformers are classified into the following categories:
(a) Distribution transformers

They are used in the distribution networks in order to transmit energy from the medium voltage (MV) network
to the low voltage (LV) network of the consumers. Their power is usually ranging from 50 to 2500 kVA.
(b) Power transformers

They are used in the high-power generating stations for voltage step up and in the transmission substations
for voltage step up or step down. Usually their power is bigger than 2,5 MVA.
(c) Autotransformers
They are used for voltage transformation within relatively small limits, for connection of electric energy systems
of various voltages, for starting of AC (alternative current) motors, etc.
(d) Test transformers

They are used for the execution of performance tests with high or ultra-high voltage.
(e) Special power transformers

They are used for special applications, e.g. in furnaces and in welding.
(f) Instrument transformers

They are used for the accurate measurement of voltage or current.
(g) Telecommunication transformers

They are used in telecommunication applications aiming at the reliable reproduction of the signal in a wide range
of frequency and voltage.

A.1.2 Classification of transformers according to the cooling method
The identification of oil-immersed transformers according to the cooling method is expressed by a four-letter code.
The first letter expresses the internal cooling medium in contact with the windings. The second letter identifies the
circulation mechanism for internal cooling medium. The third letter expresses the external cooling medium.
The fourth letter identifies the circulation mechanism for external cooling medium. For example, if the internal
cooling medium is mineral oil, which is circulated with natural flow, and the external cooling medium is air, which is
circulated with natural convection, then this cooling method is coded as ONAN (Oil Natural Air Natural).
In power transformers, various cooling methods are used including oil circulation by pumps, or forced air
circulation by fans, or both of the above. As a result, the following cooling methods exist:
ONAF: Oil Natural Air Forced.

OFAN: Oil Forced Air Natural.
OFAF: Oil Forced Air Forced.
OFWF: Oil Forced Water Forced.
Combinations like ONAN/ONAF, ONAN/OFAN or ONAN/OFAF are also applicable.
A.1.3 Classification of transformers according to the insulating medium

According to their insulating medium, the transformers are classified into the following categories:
(a) Oil-immersed type transformers

The insulating medium is mineral oil or synthetic (silicon) oil.
(b) Dry type transformers

The cooling is implemented with natural air circulation and the windings are usually insulated with materials of
H or F class. The materials of H class are designed in order to operate, in normal conditions, under temperatures
up to 180ºC and the materials of F class under temperatures up to 155ºC.
(c) Resin type transformers

The resin type transformer is a dry type transformer insulated with epoxy resin cast under vacuum.

according to the construction of the magnetic circuit
The construction of the magnetic circuit of the three-phase transformers can be done, alternatively, as follows:
(a) With three legs (vertical limbs) (b) With five legs (vertical limbs)
The magnetic flux of one leg must close through the Free return of the flux through the external legs.
other two legs and the flux also flows through the
windings of the other phases, namely the transformer
has non free return of the flux.
There are two different technologies for stacking the sheets of the magnetic material of the core:
(a) Stack core (b) Wound core

The layers of the sheets of the magnetic material are The magnetic circuit is of shell type and the sheets are
placed one over the other and the vertical and the wound.
horizontal layers are over lapped.
Two different materials are used for core construction:
(a) Silicon steel sheet (b) Amorphous metal sheet

The silicon steel sheet that is used for the core The amorphous metal sheet that is used for the core
construction is an alloy consisting of 97% iron and 3% construction is an alloy consisting of 92% iron, 5%
silicon. This material has crystallic structure. The silicon silicon and 3% boron. This material has not crystallic
steel sheets have thickness from 0.18 up to 0.5 mm. structure. It has 70% lower no-load loss than the silicon
There are also silicon steel sheets for operation in high steel. The thickness of the amorphous metal sheet is
magnetic induction (Hi-B). 0.025 mm, namely it is about 10 times thinner than the
typical thickness of the silicon steel sheet.

A.2 Elvim Distribution Trasformers
A.2.1 General characteristics
At the industrial site of Schneider Electric Greece, Elvim distribution transformers are manufactured, with voltages
up to 36 kV, having oil as cooling medium and the following technical characteristics:
Single-phase transformers from 5 up to 500 kVA.
Three-phase transformers from 25 up to 2500 kVA.
A.2.2 Advantages of Elvim distribution transformers
A potential transformer user has a lot of reasons to choose Elvim distribution transformers that are manufactured
by the industrial site of Schneider Electric Greece. Some of the most important reasons are the following:
More than 35 years of experience in transformer The high automation of the industrial process has
manufacturing (the manufacturing site is active since dramatically decreased the delivery time.
1969). As a result, the best techniques and methods For example, special transformers can be delivered
are used during transformer design and within 3 weeks.
manufacturing.
All the transformer offers are treated very carefully in
The application of the ISO 9001 quality assurance order to finally give an offer, which fully satisfies
system in combination with the very careful the needs of the transformer user.
monitoring of the whole industrial process lead in the The offer is technically complete and represents the
manufacturing of high quality transformers. optimum technical and economical solution for the
specific transformer application.
The application of the ISO 14001 environmental
management system assures the protection of the The wound core technology that is followed has the
environment and the reasonable use of natural following advantages, in comparison with the stack
resources during the transformer production. core technology:
The application of the OHSAS 18001 Health & Lower magnetization current.
Safety system assures that each employee enjoys As a result, the transformer has lower current
the maximum level of health and safety in the harmonics (better quality), lower consumption
working environment. of reactive power and lower magnetization
current.
The use of the best materials for the transformer Less noise.
construction. The reliability of the suppliers of the
transformer materials is systematically monitored
and checked.

A.3 Transformer Manufacturing Features
A.3.1 Magnetic circuit
The wound core technology is followed and magnetic

materials with low losses are used.
The magnetic circuit is of shell type and the cores
are wound.
The production procedure of the wound core is as
follows: the magnetic material is slit into sheets of
standard widths.
Next, the sheets are cut to predetermined lengths.
Next, the sheets are wound on a circular mandrel
and a circular core is created.
Annealing treatment follows in order to recover
the core’s physical and electrical properties.
The quality control department checks the quality
of the wound core.
Figure 1 shows one wound core.
Figure 1: Wound core.
A.3.2 Windings
The type of coil is rectangular concentric winding.

For the low voltage coil, copper sheet or copper CORES
rectangular wire is mainly used.
The high voltage coil is constructed from copper wire or
copper rectangular wire. The combination of copper
sheet in low voltage with copper wire in high voltage
plus coated press paper with epoxy resin as interlayer
insulation, increases the coil’s ability to withstand
short-circuit.
Important points during the production procedure are

the following:
Coil heat treatment at 100ºC so that epoxy resin is

polymerized giving an extremely compact product,
All coils pass through quality control.

COILS
Figure 2 shows the assembled active part
(cores and coils) of one three-phase wound core type
transformer. Figure 2: Transformer active part.

A.3.3 Metallic parts
For the construction of transformer metallic parts, the following basic mechanical equipment is used:
CNC machines for cutting, punching and bending Equipment for oil leak detection of the transformer
of steel sheets. tanks.
Different types of welding machines (i.e. MIG-MAG, Modern painting shop for the painting of the metallic
TIG, and electrode) for the welding of the metallic parts. The usual painting procedure includes the
parts. following steps: sandblasting, decreasing-
phosphatizing Fe, painting with 4 coats (two primer
Machines for construction and welding of
coats and two final color coats) with total thickness
corrugated panels and tanks. Certified technicians
of 160 μm. This painting procedure results in a
and welders are the operators of these machines.
durable corrosion protection and therefore lengthy
Stud welding equipment for stud welding on the life expectancy.
transformer cover so that secure insulator
placement is achieved.
A.3.4 Assembly
For the transformer assembly, the following basic equipment is used:
various cranes from 1 to 35 tons, two vacuum chambers, in which the transformers
are filled with oil,
one drying chamber to dry the active parts in order to
remove the moisture, which is absorbed by the
machines for the processing of transformer oil, so
transformer insulating materials during the
that the oil obtains the appropriate characteristics,
production procedure,
according to the international standards.
A.3.5 Cooling medium
Transformer oil according to IEC 60296 specifications Oil can also be filled later on without vacuum under the
is used as cooling medium. prerequisite that the oil level covers the active part and
The initial filling of transformer with oil is done under the oil has been filtered. In agreement with the
high vacuum in order to assure the high penetration of customer, the oil can be supplied from Schneider
oil everywhere and to remove air bubbles or moisture Electric or another company provided that the oil is
that could cause dielectric failure of coil. according to the given standard.

A.4 Transformer Components
A.4.1 Tank
The transformer tank consists of the bottom plate, The corrugated panels do not allow the creation
frame, and the tank sides. of significant increase of pressure internally,
which is caused by the increase of oil temperature
The tank sides are made of corrugated panels in order during transformer’s operation.
to increase the total cooling area.
The transformer tank has two earthing points.
The tank of sealed type transformers (without oil The rolling system or the base skid is welded to the tank
conservator) is filled with oil and is sealed. bottom plate.
A.4.2 Cover
There are two lifting lugs on the tank cover, which Moreover, a neutral earthing link is also placed
are used for lifting and carrying the transformer. on the cover. A pressure relief device is usually placed
On request, the thermometer pocket and the on the cover of the sealed type transformers.
thermometer with two electrical contacts are placed on
the cover.
A.4.3 Lifting lugs
The lifting lugs are used for lifting and carrying the transformer.
A.4.4 Rollers
The transformers up to 160 kVA are usually manufactured as pole-mounted. The transformers above 160 kVA
are equipped with bi-directional rollers.
A.4.5 Draining and sampling oil valve
In the lower part of the tank side there is a draining and sampling oil valve, which allows the oil sampling in order
to test the oil dielectric strength.
A.4.6 Neutral earthing link
This link ensures the neutral earthing of the three-phase winding with the transformer tank.

A.4.7 High voltage bushings
For medium voltage of 6, 10, 20, 30 kV, porcelain bushings according to DIN 42531 are used. Alternatively,
on request, plug-in bushings can be used.
A.4.8 Low voltage bushings
Low voltage bushings of 1 kV series, according to DIN 42530, are used in the low voltage.
A.4.9 Low voltage connectors
Low voltage connectors, according to DIN 43675, are used.
A.4.10 Tap changer
The applying medium voltage to the primary winding of Then we turn the handle right or left so that the pin is
transformer is not stable and depends upon the placed to the desirable tap position. If it is desirable to
transformer position in the distribution network. switch from one position (e.g. position 1) to another
Therefore, taken the primary voltage as granted, the tap (e.g. position 5), then the handling is implemented
changer is used in order to keep the secondary voltage step by step, through all intermediate positions
of the transformer as stable as possible. (e.g. positions 2, 3, 4).
The tap changer is placed into the transformer tank. The taps positions are inscribed on the rating plate of
The control interface of the tap changer is placed on the the transformer.
cover. The handling of the tap changer must be done For example, when the transformer is designed to
when the transformer is out of voltage, as follows: operate in two voltage levels, e.g. 20 kV and 15 kV, then
initially, the handle of the tap changer is pulled upwards using a 5-position tap changer, the regulation of the
so that the pin is released and entered into the fixed primary voltage can be ±2x2.5 % for medium voltage
annulus. 20 kV (i.e. voltages 19.0, 19.5, 20.0, 20.5, and 21.0 kV)
and ±2x3.3 % for medium voltage 15 kV (i.e. voltages
14.0, 14.5, 15.0, 15.5, and 16.0 kV).
A.4.11 Voltage selector
The voltage selector (changeover switch) is used for The handling of the voltage selector is the same with the
the change of the transformer operating voltage from handling of the tap changer, the only difference is that
one voltage level to another (e.g. from 15 kV to 20 kV the annulus has two positions (e.g. 15 kV or 20 kV).
and vice-versa) in proportion with the voltage of the For example, if we want a 20-15/.4 kV transformer to
network that the transformer is connected. operate with primary voltage 19.5 kV, we set the voltage
selector at the 20 kV position and the tap changer at the
-2.5% position.
A.4.12 Transformer thermometer
The thermocouple of the thermometer is set at the connected to the protection circuit for alarm and
higher oil layer, in order to measure the maximum oil tripping of the circuit, when the corresponding
temperature. The electrical contacts of the thermometer temperature limits are exceeded.
are regulated to the desirable temperatures and are

A.4.13 Oil conservator
During the transformer oil temperature variation, and indicator with two marks: the first mark shows the oil
consequently the oil volume variation, the oil level at -20ºC and the second the oil level at +20ºC.
conservator undergoes this oil volume fluctuation. Transformers with oil conservator are usually equipped
The oil conservator is equipped with an oil level with an air dehumidifier and a Buchholz relay.
A.4.14 Buchholz relay
The protection of the oil-immersed transformers from If the gases are sufficient (i.e. the internal fault is
internal faults, which cause the development of gases significant), then the second float is moved downwards
or strong oil leakage, is implemented with Buchholz and the trip contact is activated. The trip contact is also
relay, which is installed between the transformer tank activated in case of strong oil flux to the oil conservator
and the oil conservator. In case of gases creation (as a after short-circuit or internal fault. Moreover, the
result of internal fault) or lack of oil, the first float is Buchholz relay provides protection from oil leakage.
moved downwards and the alarm contact is activated.
A.4.15 Air dehumidifier
The air dehumidifier is placed on the oil conservator. The silica gel absorbs the moisture until its color is
Because of contraction and expansion of oil volume, yellow. When it is full of moisture and it changes its color
the air passes through the dehumidifier towards and and becomes soft blue-white, it must be dried
from the oil conservator. The air dehumidifier contains or it must be replaced. Drying is achieved by heating it
SiO2 crystals (silica gel), which absorb the air moisture. at temperatures between 120ºC and 150ºC until its
color becomes yellow again.
The silica gel should have the following colors:
Yellow (silica gel is fully dry).
Soft blue-white (silica gel is full of moisture).
A.4.16 Filling valve
The transformers are equipped with a filling valve, in order to have the ability to fill the transformers with mineral oil.
A.4.17 Oil level indicator
For the sealed type transformers (without oil with oil conservator, an oil level indicator of tube type
conservator), the oil level indicator is placed on the tank (glass transparent tube) or magnetic type is placed on
side or on the transformer cover. For the transformers the oil conservator.

A.4.18 Rating plate
According to the international standards, all the temperature rise, oil temperature rise, rated voltage of
transformer data are mentioned on the rating plate: the primary winding, rated voltage of the secondary
type of transformer, power in kVA, phases, frequency, winding, rated current of the primary winding, rated
short-circuit impedance, vector group, type of cooling, current of the secondary winding, no-load losses, load
windings material, serial number, year of losses, positions of tap changer and positions of
manufacturing, core and windings weight, oil weight, voltage selector (if one exists).
total weight, maximum ambient temperature, winding
A.4.19 Tank earthing point
Two tank earthing points are placed near the bottom of the tank (one earthing point in diametric opposite direction
with the other earthing point), in order to have the ability for tank earthing.
A.4.20 Accessories of sealed type transformers
The sealed type transformers are usually equipped with a pressure relief valve and thermometer or DGPT2 relay.
The DGPT2 relay has an overpressure switch, thermometer with alarm and trip contacts and oil indicator with
contact for the trip of the circuit.
Elvim Oil-immersed Distribution Transformer
Buchholz relay
Tap changer
High voltage
bushings
Oil conservator Low voltage
bushings
Oil level
indicator Lifting lug
Air dehumidifier Thermometer
Rating plate
Tank
Rollers

A.5 Transformer tests
The transformer tests are classified, in accordance with the specification IEC 60076, as follows:
Type tests.
Routine tests.
Special tests.
A.5.1 Type tests
The type tests, which are performed on one transformer from every transformer type, are the following:
(a) Temperature rise test (b) Lighting impulse test

The procedure of the temperature rise test is performed The procedure of the lightning impulse test is performed
according to IEC 60076-2. With this specific test, the according to IEC 60076-3. With this specific test, the
following tasks are implemented: transformer’s withstand against overvoltages
a) the determination of the temperature rise of the oil, is checked. These overvoltages are caused from:
and a) traveling waves (that are caused from thunders)
b) the determination of the average temperature rise of of transmission lines,
the windings. b) sudden on/off switching of breakers,
c) short-circuits at the substation area.
A.5.2 Routine tests
The routine tests are performed on every transformer separately.

The routine tests include:
(a) Measurement of winding resistance (c) Measurement of short-circuit impedance

The procedure of the measurement of windings The measurement of short-circuit impedance is
resistance is performed according to IEC 60076-1. performed according to IEC 60076-1. The short-circuit
During this test the resistance of each winding is impedance, which is expressed as a percentage of the
measured and the temperature is recorded. The test is rated voltage, represents the transformer’s impedance.
performed with DC (direct current). The measurement The international standards require the short-circuit
of the resistance of the windings is performed using a impedance to be calculated at the reference
resistance bridge. temperature of 75ºC.
(d) Measurement of load losses

(b) Measurement of the voltage ratio and The measurement of load losses is implemented with
check of phase displacement the secondary winding short-circuited and by
The measurement of the voltage ratio is performed increasing the voltage of the primary winding till the
according to IEC 60076-1. current of the primary winding reaches its nominal
The objective of the specific test is to compare the value. The load losses are calculated at the reference
measured values of the transformer ratio with the temperature of 75ºC.
respective guaranteed values.
For the transformer, the turns ratio is equal to the
voltage ratio of primary and secondary winding, (e) Measurement of no load current and
namely: no-load losses
The measurement is performed according to
U1 N1 IEC 60076-1. The no load current represents the real
= value of current that is required to magnetize the
U2 N2 magnetic core.
The no-load losses represent the active power that is
absorbed by the transformer core when it is applied
rated voltage and rated frequency in the one winding
(e.g. secondary) and the other winding (e.g. primary)
is open-circuited.

A.5.2 Routine tests (continue)
(f) Dielectric routine tests (b) LV windings

The dielectric routine tests are the following: The MV windings are short-circuited and grounded
with the transformer tank. Then, single-phase voltage is
applied to the LV windings, this voltage is determined
Applied voltage dielectric test
by the voltage of the LV system, in which the
transformer is going to be connected.
The duration of the test, according to IEC 60076-3,
is 1 min.
With this specific test, the following are checked: Induced voltage dielectric test
a) the insulation between MV and LV windings,
b) the insulation between the tested windings and the Three-phase voltage, twice the rated voltage, is
tank, and induced to the transformer for 1 min. However, due to
c) the insulation between the tested windings and the the doubling of the voltage, the magnetic induction is
magnetic circuit. also doubled, resulting in transformer saturation and,
consequently, there is a danger for the transformer to
The procedure of the measurement is as follows. be destroyed. In order to avoid saturation, the
frequency is doubled, so that the magnetic induction
remains constant. Finally, during this test, the volts per
(a) MV windings turn and therefore the volts per layer are doubled.
The LV windings are short-circuited and grounded with
the transformer tank. Then, single-phase voltage is With this test, the dielectric strength between turns and
applied to the MV windings, this voltage is determined layers is verified.
by the voltage of the MV system, in which the
transformer is going to be connected.
A.5.3 Special tests
The special tests are not included in the category of type or routine tests and are executed after agreement between
customer and manufacturer. The special tests are the following:
(a) Dielectric special tests (e) Measurement of the harmonics of the

no-load current
(b) Determination of capacitances of
windings-to-earth and between windings ( f) Measurement of insulation resistance
and/or measurement of dissipation factor
(c) Short-circuit withstand test (tanδ) of the insulation system capacitances
According to this test, the transformer is subjected to
successively short-circuits of 0.5 sec duration and the (g) Radio interference voltage
transformer must withstand these short-circuits. Since
this test requires high power, it is executed in special
test centers. For example, in Greece, the Tests
(h) Measurement of zero-sequence
Research and Standards Center of Public Power impedance
Corporation executes this test.
(d) Determination of sound levels

The transformer is energized at no-load and at rated
voltage and rated frequency, so the noise peripherally
to the transformer can be measured. The test is
performed in accordance to specification NEMA
TR - 1/1974.

A.6 Trasformer Electrical Characteristics
A.6.1 Rated Power
The rated power, Pn, of the three-phase transformer is calculated by the following formula:
Pn= Un In √3 where Un is the rated voltage and In is the rated current of the transformer.
A.6.2 Temperature rise
The temperature rise is the maximum rise when the Transformer typical characteristics:
transformer operates at the primary rated voltage,
The average temperature rise of the winding
secondary rated current and rated frequency.
is 65 K.
The top oil temperature rise is 60 K.
A.6.3 Ambient Temperature
The rated power of the transformer is typically On request, transformers operating under different
calculated for the following conditions: ambient temperature conditions can be produced.
Maximum ambient temperature of 40ºC.
Average daily ambient temperature of 30ºC.
Average annual ambient temperature of 20ºC.
A.6.4 Altitude of installation
The rated power of the transformer is valid for installation altitude up to 1000 m. If the transformer is going to be
installed in an altitude higher than 1000 m, this should be mentioned in the transformer specification.
A.6.5 Short-circuit impedance
The short-circuit impedance is the percentage of the the short-circuit impedance, the higher the voltage
primary rated voltage that has to be applied at the drop. The lower the short-circuit impedance, the higher
transformer primary winding, when the secondary the short-circuit current, in case of short-circuit. Based
winding is short-circuited, in order to have the rated on the short-circuit impedance, the following are
current at the primary winding. determined: the voltage drop due to the transformer
The short-circuit impedance is very important, because loading, the distribution of loads in case of transformers
it represents the transformer’s impedance. The higher parallel operation, and the short-circuit current.
A.6.6 Vector group
The vector group determines the phase displacement These connections are the following:
between the primary and the secondary winding. D (d): delta connection for high voltage
The three primary or secondary windings can be (low voltage) winding
connected with different ways in order to have a three- Y (y): star connection for high voltage (low voltage)
phase transformer. winding
Z (z): zigzag connection for high voltage
(low voltage) winding
N (n): the neutral exists in high voltage
(low voltage) winding for connection outside the
transformer.

A.6.7 No-load losses
The no-load losses Rated Short circuit

E0 D0 C0 B0 A0
include losses due power impedance
to no-load current, P0 LwA P0 LwA P0 LwA P0 LwA P0 LwA
kVA %
hysteresis losses and W dB(A) W dB(A) W dB(A) W dB(A) W dB(A)
eddy current losses in 50 190 55 145 50 125 47 110 42 90 39
core laminations, stray
eddy current losses in 100 320 59 260 54 210 49 180 44 145 41
core clamps and bolts, 160 460 62 375 57 300 52 260 47 210 44
and losses in the 250 650 65 530 60 425 55 360 50 300 47
dielectric circuit. 4
315 770 67 630 61 520 57 440 52 360 49
Table 1 presents the 5 400 930 68 750 63 610 58 520 53 430 50
lists (E0, D0, C0, B0, A0)
500 1100 69 880 64 720 59 610 54 510 51
of no-load losses for
transformers from 50 630 1300 70 1030 65 860 60 730 55 600 52
to 2500 kVA, according 630 1200 70 940 65 800 60 680 55 560 52
to EN 50464-1:2007. 800 1400 71 1150 66 930 61 800 56 650 53
1000 1700 73 1400 68 1100 63 940 58 770 55
1250 2100 74 1750 69 1350 64 1150 59 950 56 6
1600 2600 76 2200 71 1700 66 1450 61 1200 58
2000 3100 78 2700 73 2100 68 1800 63 1450 60
2500 3500 81 3200 76 2500 71 2150 66 1750 63
NOTE: P0 = no load losses LwA = sound power level
Table 1: No load losses P0 (W) and sound power level (Lw(A)) for Um 24kV
A.6.8 Load losses
The load losses include Rated Short circuit

Dk Ck Bk Ak
losses due to load power impedance
currents and eddy kVA W W W W %
current losses in 50 1350 1100 875 750
conductors due to
leakage fields. 100 2150 1750 1475 1250
160 3100 2350 2000 1700
Table 2 presents the
250 4200 3250 2750 2350
4 lists (Dk, Ck, Bk, Ak) 4
of load losses for 315 5000 3900 3250 2800
transformers from 50 400 6000 4600 3850 3250
to 2500 kVA, according
500 7200 5500 4600 3900
to EN 50464-1:2007.
630 8400 6500 5400 4600
For example, a 630 8700 6750 5600 4800
transformer has a
combination of losses 800 10500 8400 7000 6000
of Dk-A0, if its load losses 1000 13000 10500 9000 7600
belong to list Dk, and its 1250 16000 13500 11000 9500 6
no-load losses belong
to list A0. 1600 20000 17000 14000 12000
2000 26000 21000 18000 15000
2500 32000 26500 22000 18500
Table 2: Load losses Pk (W) at 75ºC for Um 24kV
A.6.9 Rated voltage
The rated primary voltage (input voltage) is the voltage to withstand the overvoltages that can appear in the
at which the transformer is designed to operate. The network. The calculation of the winding insulation is
rated primary voltage determines the basic insulation based on the basic insulation level.
level (BIL) of the transformer, according to international The rated secondary voltage (output voltage) is the
standards (IEC 60076). The BIL is a basic transformer voltage at the terminals of the secondary winding at no-
characteristic, since it indicates the transformer ability load, under rated primary voltage and rated frequency.

A.6.10 Frequency
The frequency at which the transformer is designed to operate is 50 Hz or 60 Hz in accordance with the network
frequency.
A.6.11 Noise
The transformer noise is due to the magnetostriction of the sheets of the magnetic circuit.
In general, a transformer operating at low magnetic induction has low noise level.
A.6.12 Efficiency
The distribution transformers are very efficient where S is the transformer load in VA, losses are the
machines since their efficiency is greater than 95%. losses in W and cos φ is the power factor.
The power efficiency of any electrical machine is The transformer efficiency is increased with the
defined as the ratio of the useful power output to the decrease of transformer losses.
total power input. The efficiency can be defined by The transformer losses are divided into no-load losses
simultaneously measuring the output and the input and load losses. The no-load losses are constant, while
power. However, this measurement is expensive and the load losses are proportional to the transformer
difficult, especially for large machines. Moreover, in load. Consequently, the efficiency of the transformer is
case of high efficiency machines (e.g. transformer), calculated by the following formula:
higher precision can be achieved, if the efficiency is
expressed through the losses. Consequently, the S cos φ
transformer efficiency is calculated by the following n=
formula: S cos φ + NLL + LL(S/SB )2
S cos φ
n= where NLL are the no-load losses, LL are the load
S cos φ + losses losses and SB is the rated power of the transformer
in VA.
A.6.13 Short-circuit current
The short-circuit current is composed of the The asymmetrical short-circuit current stresses
asymmetrical and the symmetrical short-circuit current. mechanically the transformer, while the symmetrical
The amplitude of the first peak of the asymmetrical short-circuit current stresses thermally the transformer.
short-circuit current is equal to κ√2 times the value of Elvim transformers are designed and tested to with-
the symmetrical short-circuit current. stand short-circuit currents according to IEC 60076-5.
The factor κ√2 depends on the ratio of Ux /Ur, where
Ux is the voltage drop in the reactive components of the
transformer and Ur is the voltage drop in the resistance Ux / Urκ√2
components of the transformer. 1 1.51
1.5 1.63
Table 3 presents the values of the factor κ√2 versus the
2 1.75
ratio Ux/Ur.
3 1.95
The symmetrical short-circuit current, IK , is expressed 4 2.09
5 2.19
as a function of the rated current In. If the secondary
6 2.28
winding is short-circuited and the nominal current is
8 2.38
applied at the primary winding, the following equation
10 2.46
holds:
15 2.56
IK 100 25 2.66
= 50 2.77
In UK
where UK is the short-circuit impedance. Table 3: Values of the factor κ√2 versus the ratio Ux /Ur
A.6.14 No-load current
The no-load current represents the current that the transformer absorbs, when rated voltage is applied to the
primary winding and the secondary winding is open-circuited. The no-load current is expressed as a percentage
of the value of the rated current.

A.7 Transformer Standards
The transformer manufacturing is based on the international standards as well as on specific customer needs.
From time to time, some of the standards may be modified and in that case they are republished.
A list of transformer standards, according to IEC, is shown in Table 4.
Number Standard Description

1 IEC 60076-1 Power transformers: general
2 IEC 60076-2 Power transformers: temperature rise
3 IEC 60076-3 Power transformers: insulation levels and dielectric tests
4 IEC 60076-5 Power transformers: ability to withstand short circuit
5 IEC 60137 Bushings for alternating voltages above 1000 V
6 IEC 60354 Loading guide for oil-immersed power transformers
7 IEC 60726 Dry-type power transformers
8 IEC 60905 Loading guide for dry-type power transformers
Table 4: Transformer standards according to IEC.
The above standards are related with the electrical characteristics and the accessories of transformers.
The IEC 60076 standard describes the electrical characteristics and the transformer tests that are related with the
dynamic, thermal and electrical withstand of transformers. The DIN standard defines the transformer accessories
and the EN 50464-1 standard defines the lists of transformer losses and short-circuit impedance.
A.8 Tolerances
Constructional reasons result in deviations between the measured parameters and the values that are defined by
the specification of the transformer user (i.e. the guaranteed values).
Table 5 presents the tolerances that are applied to certain items, according to IEC 60076-1.
Ιtem Tolerance
Voltage ratio The lower of the following values:
a) ±0.5% of guaranteed voltage ratio
b) ±1/10 of the measured short-circuit impedance on
the principal tapping
Short-circuit impedance ±10% of the guaranteed short-circuit impedance
No-load losses +15% of the guaranteed no-load losses
Load losses +15% of the guaranteed load losses
Total losses (load and no-load) +10% of the guaranteed total losses
(load and no-load)
No-load current +30% of the guaranteed no-load current
Table 5: Tolerances on certain transformer items according to IEC 60076-1.

A.9 Transformer Operation
A.9.1 Overloading
The rated overloading of transformer depends on the For example, if the transformer is loaded with 50% of its
transformer’s previous load or the corresponding oil rated power continuously, then the transformer can be
temperature at the beginning of the overloading. overloaded to150% of its rated power for 15 minutes or
Examples of the permissible duration and the to 120% of its rated power for 90 minutes.
respective levels of the acceptable overloadings are
shown in Table 6.
Previous continuous Oil temperature Duration (min) of overloading

loading (°C) for specific levels of overloading
(% of rated power) (% of rated power)
10% 20% 30% 40% 50%
min min min min min
50 55 180 90 60 30 15
75 68 120 60 30 15 8
90 78 60 30 15 8 4
Table 6: Permissible duration and level of acceptable overloading.
Moreover, it should be noted that the oil temperature is overloading must be done very carefully, since there is a
not a safe measure for the winding temperature, since danger for the winding temperature to exceed the
the time constant of the oil is 2 to 4 hours, while the time critical temperature of 105ºC, without this being visible
constant of the winding is 2 to 6 minutes. Therefore, the by the oil temperature.
determination of the permissible duration of the

A.9.2 Parallel operation
The parallel operation of two or more transformers is Their vector groups should be the same and the
feasible, when the following requirements are met: connection should be implemented with the
corresponding terminals U-u, V-v, W-w. In other
The ratio of their rated power should be less words, the transformers must have the same
than 3:1. inherent phase angle difference between primary
Their voltage ratio should be the same and secondary terminals, the same polarity and the
(the permitted tolerance is according to same phase sequence. It should be noted that, in
IEC 60076-1, Table 5, § A.8). case that the vector groups are not the same, the
Their short-circuit impedance should be the same parallel operation of transformers of groups 5 and 11
(the permitted tolerance is according to is permitted, if the connection is implemented
IEC 60076-1, Table 5, § A.8). according to Table 7.
Transformer group Group of existing Connection between phases

for parallel operation transformer High Voltage Low Voltage
RST rst
5 5 UVW xyz
11 UWV wvu
or W V U or v u w
or V U W or u w v
11 11 UVW uvw
5 UWV zyx
or W V U or y x z
or V U W or x z y
Table 7: Parallel operation of transformers of groups 5 and 11.
A.9.3 Load distribution of transformers in parallel operation
If the parallel operated transformers have the same where Pi is the load that is distributed to the i
voltage ratio but different short-circuit impedance, then transformer, Pni is the rated power of the i transformer
the load is distributed among them in such a way that
each transformer accepts a specific level of load for UKi is the rated short-circuit impedance of the i
which the short-circuit impedance becomes the same transformer and UK min is the minimum rated short-
for all the parallel operated transformers. circuit impedance of the n parallel operated
transformers.
When none of the parallel operated transformers is
permitted to be overloaded, the transformer with the Finally, the total power of the n parallel operated
minimum short-circuit impedance must operate transformers is:
maximum under its rated power.
Consequently, the load distribution is given by the n n

UK min
following equation:
Σ
i=1
(Pi )
UKi
< ΣP.
i=1
i
UK min
Pi = Pni , An arithmetic example of the load distribution of
UKi
transformers in parallel operation is given in § A.13.3.

A.10 Transformer order form
The transformer order form includes the following data:
Customer
Sales engineer
Transformer type three-phase single-phase
Rated power (kVA)
Rated primary/secondary voltage (kV)
Frequency (Hz) 50 60
Installation indoor outdoor
Altitude ≤1000 m >1000 m
Cooling ONAN other
Transformer type oil dry type
Oil conservator yes no
Transformer dimensions (mm) length width height

Taps ± 2x2.5% others
Short-circuit impedance (%) at 75°C
Vector group
No-load losses (W) tolerance acc. to IEC other tolerance
Load losses (W) tolerance acc. to IEC other tolerance
Maximum temperature rise of winding 65 K other
Top oil temperature rise 60 K other
Maximum ambient temperature 40°C other
Painting type RAL 7033 other
Accessories Buchholz relay DGPT2

air dehumidifier oil indicator
pressure relief valve thermometer
rollers Distance between rollers (mm)
Quantity (items)
Unit price (€)
Payment method
Order date
Delivery date
Comments

A.11 Transformer selection
The selection of the most appropriate transformer starts with the definition of the proper and detailed specification.
The special needs of each project specify the special characteristics or accessories that are needed. The evaluation
of the alternative transformer offers depends on the transformer user. The economic evaluation method of the
transformers by the electrical utilities and industrial users is presented below.
A.11.1 Electrical Utilities
The electrical utilities evaluate the transformers based Among alternative transformer offers, the economical
on the criterion of the total owning cost, TOC (€), which optimum is the one with the minimum total owning cost.
is calculated from the following equation: The values of the parameters BP, NLL, and LL are
determined by the transformer manufacturer.
TOC = BP + A* NLL + B* LL, The values of the parameters A and B are determined by
the electrical utilities.
where BP (€) is the transformer sales price,
A (€/W) is the no-load losses factor, NLL (W) are the no-
load losses, B (€/W) is the load losses factor, and LL
(W) are the load losses.
A.11.2 Industrial Users
The procurement of transformers by the industrial users is based mainly on the transformer sales price and
secondary on the transformer losses. An arithmetic example for the determination of the most economical
transformer for an industrial user is presented in § A.13.4.

A.12 Elvim Transformers Series
In this paragraph, five indicative Elvim transformers’ series are presented.
A.12.1 Single-phase transformers, from 5 to 50 kVA, 20/0.231 kV
General Description
Single-phase distribution transformers, 50 Hz.
IEC 60076 standard is followed.
The cooling is implemented with natural circulation (ONAN) of mineral oil according to IEC 60296.
Sealed type transformers.
Outdoor installation.
Pole-mounted.
Rated primary voltage 20 kV, rated secondary voltage 231 V at no-load.
The top oil temperature rise is 60 K and the average temperature rise of the winding is 65 K.
Tolerances of losses and short-circuit impedance according to IEC 60076.
The transformer painting type is RAL 7033.
Basic Equipment
3-position tap changer with ± 5 % tappings at 20 kV.
LV and HV bushings.
Valves for filling, filtering and oil sampling.
Pole-mounting elements.
Rating plate.
Electrical Characteristics
Rated Power (kVA) 5 10 15 20 25 30 50
No-load losses (W) (*) 55 55 70 85 105 120 180
Load losses at 20 kV (W)(*) 150 320 485 650 725 800 1350
Voltage drop cosφ =1 3.04 3.23 3.26 3.28 2.94 2.71 2.74
at full load (%) cosφ = 0.8 3.99 4.00 4.00 4.00 3.97 3.93 3.93
Rated short-circuit impedance (%)(*) 4 4 4 4 4 4 4
Load cosφ =1 96.06 96.39 96.43 96.46 96.79 97.02 97.03
Efficiency (%) 100% cosφ =0.8 95.12 95.52 95.58 95.61 96.02 96.31 96.32
Load cosφ =1 96.42 96.96 97.04 97.08 97.34 97.53 97.56
75% cosφ = 0.8 95.56 96.23 96.33 96.38 96.69 96.93 96.96
Order Details
Rated power Load losses
Short-circuit impedance Altitude of installation (if the altitude exceeds 1000 m)
Rated voltages Primary tappings
No-load losses Special accessories
Rated frequency Ambient temperature
(*) Transformers with different losses and short-circuit impedance can be manufactured, on request.

General Arrangement of Single-phase Transformers,
from 5 to 50 kVA, 20/0.231 kV
1. Filling plug DIN 42553 form "D"

2. Drain and sampling valve DIN 42551 NW22
3. Lifting lugs
4. H.V. bushings
5. L.V. bushings
6. Rating plate
7. Off-load tap changer
8. Transformer base
9. Pole mounted elements
Dimensions (mm)
Rated power (kVA) 5 10 15 20 25 30 50
A (mm) 620 620 690 690 730 730 805
B (mm) 540 540 630 630 640 640 770
C (mm) 930 1050 1020 1020 1020 1020 1035
Total weight (Kg) 115 140 155 165 210 225 295
Due to evolution of standards and materials, the present manual will bind us only after confirmation from our
transformer design department.

A.12.2 Three-phase transformers, from 250 to 1600 kVA, 20/0.4 kV
General Description
Three-phase disrtibution transformers, 50 Hz.
Transformers with oil conservator.
The cooling is implemented with natural circulation of mineral oil according to IEC 60296.
Indoor or outdoor installation.
Ground-mounted.
Vector group Dyn11.
Basic Equipment
5-position tap changer with ± 2 x 2.5 % tappings at 20 kV.
LV and HV bushings.
Oil conservator with oil level indicator.
Thermometer with oil level indicator and electrical contacts.
Buchholz relay.
Air dehumidifier.
Bi-directional rollers.
Rating plate.
Rated power (kVA) 250 400 500 630 800 1000 1250 1600
No-load losses (W)(*) 610 850 1000 1200 1450 1750 2100 2550
No-Load losses at 20 kV (W)(*) 4450 6450 7800 9300 11000 13500 16400 19800
Voltage drop cosφ=1 1.94 1.78 1.73 1.65 1.55 1.52 1.48 1.41
at full load (%) cosφ=0.8 4.92 4.82 4.79 4.74 4.68 4.66 4.64 4.59
Rated short-circuit impedance (%)(*) 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6
Load cosφ=1 98.02 98.21 98.27 98.36 98.47 98.50 98.54 98.62
Efficiency (%)) 100% cosφ=0.8 97.53 97.77 97.85 97.96 98.09 98.13 98.18 98.28
Load cosφ=1 98.37 98.53 98.58 98.66 98.74 98.77 98.81 98.87
75% cosφ=0.8 97.97 98.17 98.24 98.33 98.43 98.47 98.51 98.59
Order Details
Rated power Vector group
Load losses Details of cable boxes (on request)

General Arrangement of Three-phase Transformers,
from 250 up to 1600 kVA, 20/0.4 kV
C
D D
1. Transformer tank
2. Tank cover
3. Lifting lugs
4. Roller DIN 42561
5. Draining and sampling valve DIN 42551
B
6. Neutral earthing link

7. High voltage bushing DIN 42531
8. Low voltage bushing DIN 42530
9. Low voltage connector DIN 43675
10. Tap changer
11. Thermometer with two electrical A
contacts
12. Oil conservator
13. Buchholz relay
14. Air dehumidifier
15. Filling valve DIN 42553
16. Oil level indicator
17. Rating plate
18. Tank earthing point
Dimensions (mm)
Rated power (kVA) 250 400 500 630 800 1000 1250 1600
A (mm) 1475 1700 1735 1710 1855 1960 1940 2155
B (mm) 905 1005 1005 1050 1195 1290 1270 1450
C (mm) 1530 1490 1720 1815 1890 1895 2085 2095
D (mm) 520 670 670 670 670 820 820 820
Total weight (Kg) 1100 1380 1700 1940 2380 2650 3200 3760
Due to the evolution of standards and materials, the present manual will bind us only after confirmation from our

A.12.3 Three-phase transformers, from 250 to 1600 kVA, 20/0.4 kV,
with low losses
General Description
Three-phase distribution transformers, 50 Hz.
Combination of losses Dk-A0, EN 50464-1:2007.
Ground-mounded.
Vector group Dyn11.
Basic Equipment
LV and HV bushings.
Thermometer with oil level indicator and contacts.
Buchholz relay.
Air dehumidifier.
Rating plate.
Rated Power (kVA) 250 400 500 630 800 1000 1250 1600
No-load losses (W)(*) 425 610 750 860 940 1100 1350 1700
Load losses at 20 kV (W)(*) 3250 4600 5500 6500 8700 10500 13300 17000
at full load (%) cosφ=0.8 3.33 3.25 3.22 3.17 4.49 4.47 4.48 4.48
Load cosφ=1 98.55 98.71 98.77 98.85 98.81 98.85 98.84 98.84
Efficiency (%) 100% cosφ=0.8 98.20 98.40 98.46 98.56 98.52 98.57 98.56 98.56
Load cosφ=1 98.81 98.95 98.99 99.05 99.04 99.07 99.07 99.07
75% cosφ=0.8 98.52 98.69 98.73 98.82 98.80 98.85 98.84 98.84
Order Details

General Arrangement of Three-phase Transformers, from 250 to 1600kVA,
20/0.4 kV, with low losses
C
D D
1. Transformer tank
2. Tank cover
3. Lifting lugs
4. Roller DIN 42561
B

10. Tap changer
A
11. Thermometer with two electrical contacts
12. Oil conservator
13. Buchholz relay
17. Rating plate
Dimensions (mm)
Rated power (kVA) 250 400 500 630 800 1000 1250 1600
A (mm) 1580 1710 1705 1790 1950 2030 2120 2300
B (mm) 880 900 1020 1000 1140 1260 1350 1300
C (mm) 1480 1560 1580 1670 1740 1780 1880 1950
D (mm) 520 670 670 670 670 820 820 820
Total weight (Kg) 1150 1500 1750 2100 2400 2800 3200 4050

A.12.4 Three-phase transformers, from 250 to 1600 kVA, 20-15/0.4 kV
General Description
Ground-mounted.
Rated primary voltage 20 and 15 kV, rated secondary 400 V at no-load.
Vector group Dyn11.
Basic Equipment
Voltage selector.
5-position tap changer with ± 2 x 2.5 % tappings at 20 kV and ± 2 x 3.33 % tappings at 15 kV.
LV and HV bushings.
Thermometer with level indicator and contacts.
Buchholz relay.
Air dehumidifier.
Rating plate.
Rated power (kVA) 250 400 500 630 800 1000 1250 1600
No-load losses (W)(*) 575 810 930 1000 1180 1360 1720 1950
Load losses as 20 kV (W)(*) 4000 6350 7500 9300 10800 12800 13500 17400
at full load (%) cosφ=0.8 4.82 4.81 4.76 4.74 4.66 4.62 4.49 4.49
Load cosφ=1 98.20 98.24 98.34 98.39 98.52 98.60 98.80 98.81
Efficiency (%) 100% cosφ=0.8 97.76 97.81 97.94 98.00 98.16 98.26 98.50 98.51
Load cosφ=1 98.52 98.56 98.65 98.70 98.81 98.87 99.02 99.03
75% cosφ=0.8 98.15 98.21 98.31 98.38 98.51 98.59 98.77 98.79
Order Details

General Arrangement of Tree-phase Transformers,
from 250 to 1600 kVA, 20-15/0.4 kV
D
D
1. Transformer tank
2. Tank cover
3. Lifting lugs
4. Roller DIN 42561
B

10. Tap changer
11. Voltage selector A
13. Oil conservator
14. Buchholz relay
18. Rating plate
Dimensions (mm)
Rated power (kVA) 250 400 500 630 800 1000 1250 1600
A (mm) 1530 1650 1873 1758 2025 1990 2135 2240
B (mm) 925 1035 960 1005 1225 1230 1280 1470
C (mm) 1520 1530 1718 1820 1890 1890 1910 2080
D (mm) 520 670 670 670 670 820 820 820
Total weight (Kg) 1100 1560 1800 2100 2550 2800 3200 3760

A.12.5 Three-phase sealed type transformers,
from 25 to 1600 kVA, 20/0.4 kV
General Description
Sealed type transformers (without oil conservator).
Ground-mounted.
Rated primary voltage 20 kV, rated secondary 400 V at no-load.
Vector group Yzn5 (up to 160 kVA) and Dyn5 (from 250 kVA to 1600 kVA).
Basic Equipmemt
LV and HV bushings.
Oil level indicator.
Rating plate.
Pressure relief device.
Thermometer with two electrical contacts.
Rated power (kVA) 25 40 50 63 100 125 160 250 400 630 800 1000 1600
No-load losses (W)(*) 110 170 180 230 320 380 460 650 930 1270 1350 1700 2300
Load losses at 20 kV (W)(*) 700 985 1100 1350 1750 2100 2350 3250 4600 6500 8600 10500 13600
Voltage drop cosφ=1 2.84 2.51 2.26 2.20 1.81 1.75 1.54 1.47 1.32 1.21 1.25 1.22 1.03
at full load (%) cosφ=0.8 3.96 3.87 3.77 3.75 3.57 3.54 3.43 4.63 4.53 4.46 4.48 4.47 4.33
Rated short-circuit impedance (%)(*) 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 6 6 6 6 6 6
Load cosφ=1 96.86 97.19 97.50 97.55 97.97 98.05 98.27 98.46 98.64 98.78 98.77 98.79 99.02
Efficiency (%) 100% cosφ=0.8 96.11 96.52 96.90 96.96 97.48 97.58 97.85 98.09 98.30 98.48 98.47 98.50 98.77
Load cosφ=1 97.38 97.64 97.91 97.95 98.29 98.36 98.54 98.70 98.84 98.97 98.98 99.00 99.18
75% cosφ=0.8 96.75 97.07 97.41 97.45 97.87 97.96 98.18 98.37 98.56 98.71 98.73 98.75 98.97
Order Details

General Arrangement of Three-phase Sealed Type Transformers, from 25 to 1600 kVA, 20/0.4 kV
Alternative position
of rating plate
D D
B
1. Corrugated panels
4. Draining and sampling valve
5. Lifting lugs
6. High voltage bushings
7. Low voltage bushings DIN 42530
8. Rating plate
10. Tap changer
11. Pressure relief device
12. Rollers
A 14. Oil level indicator
Dimensions (mm)
Rated power (kVA) 25 40 50 63 100 125 160 250 400 630 800 1000 1600
A (mm) 850 870 900 930 950 1000 1130 1370 1530 1820 1870 1900 2260
B (mm) 680 680 680 680 680 680 770 855 895 1160 1240 1220 1415
C (mm) 1140 1140 1140 1200 1260 1275 1275 1270 1350 1350 1460 1570 1600
D (mm) 520 520 520 520 520 520 520 520 670 670 670 820 820
Total weight (Kg) 365 435 450 500 640 705 825 1050 1450 1950 2220 2600 2740
Due to the evolution of standards and materials, the present document will bind us only after confirmation from our

A.13 Examples
A.13.1 Calculation of Transformer Efficiency

Let us assume that a three-phase transformer, 630 kVA, 20/0.4 kV, has 1200 W no-load losses and 9300 W
load losses. Determine the transformer efficiency at full load (case 1) and at 75% load (case 2) for power factor
1.0 and 0.8.
Case 1: full load Case 2: load 75%

The efficiency at full load and for power factor equal to The efficiency at load 75% and cos φ=1.0 is:
1.0 (cos φ=1.0) is calculated as follows:
S cos φ η3 = 472500*1.0 = 98.66 %
η1 = = 472500*1.0 + 1200 + 9300*(0.75)2
S cos φ + NLL + LL(S/SB)2
= 630000*1.0 = 0.9836 = 98.36 %

630000*1.0 + 1200 + 9300*(1.0)2 The efficiency at load 75% and cos φ=0.8 is:
The efficiency at full load and cos φ=0.8 is: 472500*0.8

η4 = = 98.33 %
472500*0.8 + 1200 + 9300*(0.75)2
η2 = 630000*0.8 = 97.96 %
630000*0.8 + 1200 + 9300*(1)2
A.13.2 Calculation of Voltage Drop

Let us assume that a three-phase transformer, 630 kVA, 20/0.4 kV, has 9300 W load losses and 6% short-circuit
impedance. Determine the voltage drop at full load (case 1) and at 75% load (case 2) for power factor 1.0 and 0.8.
The voltage drop is given by the following equation:
Udrop = S (er cos φ + ex sin φ) + 1 1 ( S )2 (er sin φ - ex cos φ)2 , where

SB 2 100 SB
er = LL = 9300 = 0.014762 = 1.4762% and ex = U2k - e2r = 0.062 - 0.0147622 = 0.05816 = 5.816 %
SB 630000
Case 1: full load Case 2: load 75%

For cos φ = 1 , sin φ=0. For cos φ = 1, the voltage drop is calculated as follows:
Udrop = S (er cos φ + ex sin φ) + Udrop = (0.75) * (1.4762 * 1 + 5.816 * 0) +

SB
+ 1 1 ( S )2 (er sin φ - ex cos φ)2 = + 1 1 (0.75)2 (1.4762 * 0 - 5.816 * 1)2 = 1.202 %

2 100 SB 2 100
= 1.0*(1.4762*1 + 5.816*0) +
+ 1 1 (1.0)2 (1.4762*0 - 5.816*1)2 = 1.645 %

2 100 For cos φ = 0.8, the voltage drop is:
Udrop = (0.75) * (1.4762 * 0.8 + 5.816 * 0.6) +

For cos φ = 0.8, sin φ = 1 - (cos φ)2 = 0.6.
+ 1 1 (0.75)2 (1.4762 * 0.6 - 5.816 * 0.8)2 = 3.543 %
2 100
Udrop = (1.0) * (1.4762 * 0.8 + 5.816 * 0.6) +
+ 1 1 (1.0)2 (1.4762 * 0.6 - 5.816 * 0.8)2 = 4.741 %

2 100

A.13.3 Parallel Operation of Transformers
Let us assume that three transformers operate in parallel. The first transformer has 800 kVA rated power and 4.4%
short-circuit impedance. The rated power and the short-circuit impedance of the other two transformers is 500 kVA
and 4.8%, and 315 kVA and 4.0%, respectively. Calculate the maximum total load of the three transformers.
Among the three transformers, the third transformer The maximum total load of the three transformers is:
has the minimum short-circuit impedance,
Ptot = Pn,1 + Pn,2 + Pn,3 = 728 + 417 + 315 = 1460 kVA.
i.e Uk, min = 4.0 %.
The load of transformer 1 is:
The three transformers have total installed power:
Uk, min
Pn,1 = P1 U = 800 4 = 728 kVA. P = P1 + P2 + P3 = 800 + 500 + 315 = 1615 kVA.
k,1 4.4
The load of transformer 2 is:

From the above, it is concluded that the maximum
Uk, min total load (1460 kVA) represents the 90.4% of the total
Pn,2 = P2 U = 500 4 = 417 kVA.
k,2 4.8 installed power (1615 kVA).
It should be noted that, in order the maximum total
The load of the transformer 3 is: load to be equal to the total installed power, the
Uk, min transformers must have the same short-circuit
Pn,3 = P3 4 = 315 kVA. impedance.
Uk,3 = 315 4
A.13.4 Transformer Selection

Let us assume that an industrial user wants to buy a 630 kVA transformer. The transformer will operate with 60%
average loading, 8 hours per day, 200 working days per year. Two transformer manufacturers submit two different
offers to the industrial user. The first manufacturer offers a transformer with 1200 W no-load losses and 8700 W load
losses at a sales price of 5870 €. The second manufacturer offers a transformer with 940 W no-load losses and 6750
W load losses at a sales price of 7045 €. Considering that the depreciation of the transformer purchase investment
is going to be done in 5 years and the energy charge is 0.075 €/kWh, calculate the economical optimum offer.
The comparison of the two offers will be based on the annual total owning cost, which is the sum of the annual
buying cost and the annual usage cost. An approximation of the annual buying cost can be found by dividing the
sales price with the years of depreciation. An approximation of the annual usage cost can be calculated based on
the annual charge due to the transformer operation (annual charge for load losses and no-load losses).
Manufacturer A Manufacturer B
The annual buying cost (€) is: The annual buying cost (€) is:
5870 € 7045 €
OC1 = = 1174 € OC2 = = 1409 €
5 5
The annual charge (€) for the no-load losses is: The annual charge (€) for the no-load losses is:
€ €
NLLC1 = 8,760 h * 1.2 kW * 0.075 = 788.4 € NLLC2 = 8,760 h * 0.94 kW * 0.075 = 617.58 €
kWh kWh
The annual charge (€) for the load losses is: The annual charge (€) for the load losses is:
€ €
LLC1 = (200 * 8 h) * 0,62 * 8.7 kW * 0.075 = 375.84 € LLC2 = (200 * 8 h) * 0,62 * 6.75 kW * 0.075 = 291.6 €
kWh kWh
The annual total owning cost (€) is: The annual total owning cost (€) is:
TOC1 = OC1 + NLLC1 + LLC1 = 2338.24 € TOC2 = OC2 + NLLC2 + LLC2 = 2318.18 €
As a result, although the transformer sales price of the second manufacturer is 20% more expensive (i.e.
1175 € more expensive), the transformer of the second manufacturer is finally more economical, since its
annual total owning cost is 0.9% less (i.e. 20.06 € less). From the above, it is concluded that the cheapest
transformer is not always the most economical. In particular, the difference at the annual total owning cost
could be more than 0.9%. This will happen, if we consider more years for the depreciation (instead of the
current assumption of 5 years), or if we use the transformer more (instead of the current assumption of 60%
average loading, 8 hours per day, 200 working days per year).

Section B:
Transformer Installation
and Maintenance
B.1 Dimensions of transformer installation area
When the transformer is going to be installed inside an electrical room (indoor installation), particular attention
should be paid to the calculation of the dimensions of the installation area as well as to the ventilation of the
installation room. The ventilation of the electrical room influences the cooling, and consequently, the transformer’s
life. The distance between the walls of the room and the transformer end points must be from 50 to 60 cm.
Calculation of air resistance

For the calculation of the dimensions of the openings For each adjustable venetian blind, the value of
for the input and output of air in the electrical room, the WV = 3 is added to the value of Wmin .
calculation of the air resistance is required. For example, for a transformer installation room with
For the air resistance, the symbol W is used in the two meshes (one in the input and one in the output of
sequel. The value of the air resistance depends on the air), the minimum air resistance is:
existence or not of lattices, meshes and venetian
blinds. W = Wmin + 2 WM = 4 + 2 x 1.5 = 7.
If there are no lattices, meshes and venetian blinds in
the input and output openings of the air, then the The lowest possible temperature in the transformer
minimum air resistance is : electrical room is achieved with the following ways:
Wmin = 4. the opening for the output of the hot air is placed in
For each lattice, the value WL=1 is added to the value the highest possible location, and
of Wmin . the opening for the input of the cold air is placed in
the lowest possible location.
For each mesh, the value WM =1.5 is added to the value
of Wmin .
Calculation of cross-section area of the input and output openings

The cross-section area of the opening for the input of
air, F1 (m2), is calculated by the following formula:
F1 = 4.25 . V . 104W ,
100 H . t3
where V is the total transformer losses (kW), W is the air
resistance, H is the height (m) of the opening for the
output of air from the horizontal symmetry axis of
transformer (Figure 3), and t is the temperature rise (°C)
of the transformer room.
The cross-section area of the opening for the output of
air, F2 (m2), should be 10% to 15% larger than the
cross-section area of the opening for the input of air
(F1).
Gravel
Pit for oil
Figure 3: Dimensions of transformer installation room.

B.2 Instructions for transformer installation
The transformer is delivered at the industrial site of regulations of the local authorities (e.g. construction
Schneider Electric at Inofyta, Greece. authority, electrical utility).
The responsibility for the safe transportation, unloading, The unloading and transportation of the transformer
and connection to the network belongs to the should be done in such a way that the transformer does
transformer user. The substation must be constructed not deviate by more than 15° from its horizontal
after study and design from a certified engineer and the position. When the transformer is installed at its
relevant authorities (e.g. electrical utility, etc) must position, no deviation is allowed from its horizontal
approve the substation design. position. If the transformer is equipped with a Buchholz
Under the transformer, there should be an oil collection relay, the Buchholz connection instructions must be
tank, which has on its upper part a metallic mesh and followed.
gravel. The oil collection tank must have the appropriate Before the connection of the transformer to the network,
volume, so that in case of leakage all the quantity of the the transformer must be optically checked,
transformer oil can be collected within the oil collection in order to ensure that it has no damage during its
tank. The whole substation has an isodynamic mesh. transportation or it has no oil leakage. In case of
The resistance of the earthing must be less than 1Ω and scratches in its painting, the transformer must be
generally the substation must be constructed in repainted immediately in order to avoid future rust.
accordance with the existing instructions and
B.3 Instructions for transformer Maintenance

The transformer is a very reliable electrical machine and it will practically need no maintenance during the many
years of its operation. However, this presupposes that the transformer remains clean and it is not overloaded more
than the permissible levels of duration and loading. Moreover, it also assumes that the network that the transformer
serves is not affected by short-circuits, overvoltages, thunders, and the coupling apparatus of the high and low
voltage as well as the transformer’s protective devices operate normally. In practice, it is not possible to guarantee
all these conditions, that’s why the following are recommended:
1. Optical inspection (every three months) 2. Oil check (every year)

Check if the transformer is clean, especially on the Check of the oil dielectric strength. This is based
surface of insulators (dust and moisture can cause on the sample that is taken, by opening the draining
flashover). and sampling oil valve of the transformer. 10 lt of oil
Check for oil leakage. are initially taken out and next, a sample of 1 lt is
taken. The cans, bottles and funnels that are going
Check for damage in the transformer painting. In to be used for sampling, must be absolutely clean
case of scratches, they should be repainted in order and dry.
to prevent the tank oxidation. The bottle, which is going to be used for the
Check of the oil level of the oil indicator, when the shipment of the oil, must be hermetically sealed.
transformer is out of operation. For example, if the If the check results in an oil dielectric strength less
ambient temperature is +20°C and the reading of than 40 kV, then the oil must be replaced or must be
the oil indicator is below the reading of +20°C, then reprocessed with a special cleaning apparatus.
oil filling is required.
Check of the condition of the air dehumidifier. If the Check of the operation of the Buchholz relay, the
color of the silica gel becomes yellow, then it is in thermometer and the condition of their contacts.
good condition, while if it has a soft blue-white color,
then it must be dried or it must be replaced.
Before each action it is necessary:

to turn off the medium and low voltage switches,
to ground the transformer in order to remove any
capacity loads.

B.4 Instructions for thermometer connection
The transformer thermometer is used to follow the

variations of the oil temperature.
The thermometer has two normally open contacts,
which change status when the transformer reaches
the predetermined limits.
The first contact (alarm contact) is used for warning and

the second (trip-off contact) is used for tripping off the
circuit breaker at the low voltage switchboard.
The warning could be:

Activation of alarm,
Load rejection,
Optical indication (warning lamp).
The suggested activation adjustments of the

transformer contacts are:
90°C for warning (left movable pointer with
red end),
100°C for trip-off (right movable pointer with
red end).
A general arrangement of the transformer and

Buchholz relay is shown in Figure 4.
A typical wiring of thermometer and Buchholz

connected to an alarm panel is shown in Figure 5.
Figure 4: General arrangment of thermometer and Buchholz.
Figure 5: Typical wiring of thermometer and Buchholz connected to an alarm panel.

B.5 Instructions for the connection of the Buchholz relay
If the transformer has a Buchholz relay, the following connection instructions are suggested:
Initially, the protective cylindrical cover of the testing button of the Buchholz relay must be unscrewed, and then
the cylindrical piece of wood (which blocks the floats during transportation) must be removed.
Next, it is necessary to check (from the inspection door) if the Buchholz relay is full with oil. In case that it is not
full, the hexagonal cover must be removed and the ventilation valve must be opened so that the Buchholz relay
to be filled with oil. The filling and the free movement of the floats with the contacts are checked through the
inspection door. As soon as the Buchholz relay is filled with oil, the ventilation valve must be closed again.
A general arrangement of the Buchholz relay (and the transformer) is shown in Figure 4.
A typical wiring of thermometer and Buchholz relay connected to an alarm panel is shown in Figure 5.
(“Electrical contacts” and “check of the operation

of the protection circuits”, page 40)
Dry type contacts for signaling (alarm and trip)

B.5 Instructions for the connection of the Buchholz relay (continue)
Electrical contacts
The electrical contacts consist of two pairs of normally open contacts.
The one pair of contacts is used for alarm and the other pair of contacts for tripping off the circuit breaker.
The required voltage is 24-230V alternative or direct current.
Check of the operation of the protection circuits

The check of the operation of the protection circuits is The alarm contacts (3 and 4) are connected to an
implemented through the following steps: alarm horn, which will operate when gases are
collected to the Buchholz relay or the oil level gets
The cylindrical cover of the testing button is removed down.
and the button is gradually pressed so that to get
down the floats. Next, it is checked if the alarm The trip-off contacts (1 and 2) act on the trip-off coil
contacts and the trip-off contacts are closed. of the medium voltage circuit breaker and open the
circuit breaker, when the oil level gets down or the oil
As soon as the testing button is left free, the floats are pressure in the transformer tank increases suddenly.
moved to the normal position and the contacts open.
B.6 Instruction for the connection of the air dehumidifier
If the transformer has an air

dehumidifier, the following VE.11/TV75 type
connection instructions are
suggested:
Waterproof packing is used

for the transportation of the
dehumidifier, in order to avoid
the absorption of moisture by
the silica gel.
During the placement of the
dehumidifier to the transformer,
the oil glass (which is under the
dehumidifier) is removed.
Then the oil glass is filled with
mineral oil until the end of the
tube (which goes out of the
dehumidifier) to be sink in the oil.
In case of transformer
transportation, the dehumidifier
must be removed, its tap must
be sealed and a cap must 1. Top cover Type Oil H D F silica gel Tank
be put to the tube of the oil 2. Stainless tank weight weight volume
conservator. 3. Transparent silica
gel tank VE.1 1500 kg 250 mm 100 mm 1/2” GF 0,35 kg 0,465 dm3
The air dehumidifier is shown 4. Tube

5. Transparent oil tank
in Figure 6. 6. Oil indicator - air input
7. Base
8. Rating plate
9. Draining tube
11. Air input
Figure 6: Air dehumidifier

Schneider Electric Services
Schneider Electric Services offer:
• Engineering and technical support

• Startup
• Training
• Preventive maintenance and maintenance after failure
• Adaptation works
• Spare parts
• Maintenance contracts
For questions please contact our Customer Care Center:

+30 800 11 62900 (toll free) or
+30 210 62 95 325

Make the most of your energy
Schneider 318-05AD/04.09
Inofyta Plant
55th km Athens-Lamia N.R., GR-32011 Inofyta, Greece
Customer care center: +30 800 11 62900 (toll free)

http://www.schneider-electric.gr

Elvim TFs - Use & Maintenance Guide EN

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Use and Maintenance of

Use and Maintenance of Oil-immersed Distribution Transformers - Elvim range / page 1

New product marking

From now on you will see

Use and Maintenance of Oil-immersed Distribution Transformers - Elvim range / page 2

Through the brief description of the use and maintenance of the

Use and Maintenance of Oil-immersed Distribution Transformers - Elvim range / page 1

Section A: Use of Transformers

A.2 Elvim Distribution A.2.1 General characteristics page 7

A.3 Transformer A.3.1 Magnetic circuit page 8

A.4 Transformer A.4.1 Tank page 10

A.5 Transformer tests A.5.1 Type tests page 14

Use and Maintenance of Oil-immersed Distribution Transformers - Elvim range / page 2

A.7 Transformer standards page 19

A.8 Tolerances page 19

A.9 Transformer A.9.1 Overloading page 20

A.10 Transformer order form page 22

A.11 Transformer A.11.1 Electrical utilities page 23

A.12 Elvim A.12.1 Single-phase transformers,

A.13 Examples A.13.1 Calculation of transformer efficiency page 34

Section B: Transformer installation and maintenance

Schneider Electric Services page 41

Use and Maintenance of Oil-immersed Distribution Transformers - Elvim range / page 3

A.1 Transformer types

A.1.1 Classification of transformers according to the use

(a) Distribution transformers

(b) Power transformers

(d) Test transformers

(e) Special power transformers

(f) Instrument transformers

(g) Telecommunication transformers

Use and Maintenance of Oil-immersed Distribution Transformers - Elvim range / page 4

ONAF: Oil Natural Air Forced.

Combinations like ONAN/ONAF, ONAN/OFAN or ONAN/OFAF are also applicable.

A.1.3 Classification of transformers according to the insulating medium

(a) Oil-immersed type transformers

(b) Dry type transformers

(c) Resin type transformers

Use and Maintenance of Oil-immersed Distribution Transformers - Elvim range / page 5

(a) Stack core (b) Wound core

Two different materials are used for core construction:

(a) Silicon steel sheet (b) Amorphous metal sheet

Use and Maintenance of Oil-immersed Distribution Transformers - Elvim range / page 6

A.2.1 General characteristics

A.2.2 Advantages of Elvim distribution transformers

Use and Maintenance of Oil-immersed Distribution Transformers - Elvim range / page 7

A.3.1 Magnetic circuit

The wound core technology is followed and magnetic

Figure 1 shows one wound core.

Figure 1: Wound core.

The type of coil is rectangular concentric winding.

Important points during the production procedure are

Coil heat treatment at 100ºC so that epoxy resin is

All coils pass through quality control.

Use and Maintenance of Oil-immersed Distribution Transformers - Elvim range / page 8

For the transformer assembly, the following basic equipment is used:

A.3.5 Cooling medium

Use and Maintenance of Oil-immersed Distribution Transformers - Elvim range / page 9

A.4.3 Lifting lugs

A.4.5 Draining and sampling oil valve

A.4.6 Neutral earthing link

Use and Maintenance of Oil-immersed Distribution Transformers - Elvim range / page 10

A.4.8 Low voltage bushings