Testing Procedure for Transformer Differential Protection Relay

A. Secondary Injection Test for Relay

1. Record all particulars of relay to be tested and its service settings.
2. Check that all auxiliary supply voltage connected to the relay corresponds to rated auxiliary
voltage stated on its nameplate.
3. Connect output of the test set to R phase of relay for transformer primary side. Turn on
auxiliary supply to the relay.
4. Ensure that control knob on test set has returned to zero position. Then switch on the test set.
5. Increase output current of test set gradually until relay operates. Record the current in test
form. Switch off the test set.
6. Repeat the test for Y and B elements for transformer primary side of relay.
7. Repeat the test for R, Y, B elements for transformer secondary side of relay.

B. Differential Stability Test

1. Check that both HV and LV breaker of transformer is switched off. Close the earthing switch
of both breaker to ground the transformer. If busbar is alive, lock busbar shutters with
padlock.
2. With supply in off position, connect three phase wires from a three phase variac to spouts on
circuit side of HV breaker.
3. Short the spouts on circuit side of LV breaker together and then connect to earth.
4. Open the earth switch on both HV and LV breaker.
5. Switch on power supply, raise output voltage of variac gradually until a current of at least
10mA is measured on the CT secondary circuit of HV and LV windings.
6. Record the current obtained for both HV and LV side of transformer.
7. Measured the spill current of relay operating coil. As stable condition is being simulated now,
the spill current shall be negligible.
8. Switch off supply to three phase variac. Remove shorting on circuit spouts of LV breaker.
Switch on earthing switch of LV breaker.
9. Repeat steps 5 to 7 above, as unstable condition is being simulated now, the spill current
would be significant.
10. Switch off power supply. Disconnect all test connections. Open earth switch on LV breaker.
Remove all padlocks on busbar shutters of breakers.

HV HV
Breaker Breaker

3 Phase 3 Phase
Variac Variac

LV
Breaker
LV Breaker

Fig 1. Differential Stability Test (Stable Condition) Fig 2. Differential Stability Test (Unstable Condition)