Three-phase Transformer Circuits

Three-phase transformers are passive machines that pass electrical energy between circuits. In the
secondary circuit, a magnetic flux induces an electromotive force (emf), thus stepping up (increase)
or stepping down (decrease) voltages without altering the frequency.

Since three-phase is used so often for power distribution systems, it makes sense that we would need
three-phase transformers to be able to step voltages up or down.

This is only partially true, as regular single-phase transformers can be ganged together to transform
power between two three-phase systems in a variety of configurations, eliminating the requirement
for a special three-phase transformer.

However, special three-phase transformers are built for those tasks and are able to perform with less
material requirement, less size, and less weight than their modular counterparts.

Three-Phase Transformer Windings and Connections

A three-phase transformer is made of three sets of primary and secondary windings, each set wound
around one leg of an iron core assembly. Essentially it looks like three single-phase transformers
sharing a joined core as in Figure below.

Three phase transformer core has three sets of windings

Those sets of primary and secondary windings will be connected in either Δ or Y configurations to
form a complete unit. The various combinations of ways that these windings can be connected
together it will be the focus of this section.

Whether the winding sets share a common core assembly or each winding pair is a separate
transformer, the winding connection options are the same:

Primary - Secondary

 Y-Y
 Y-Δ
 Δ-Y
 Δ-Δ
The reasons for choosing a Y or Δ configuration for transformer winding connections are the same
as for any other three-phase application: Y connections provide the opportunity for multiple voltages,
while Δ connections enjoy a higher level of reliability (if one winding fails open, the other two can
still maintain full line voltages to the load).
Probably the most important aspect of connecting three sets of primary and secondary windings
together to form a three-phase transformer bank is paying attention to proper winding phasing (the
dots used to denote “polarity” of windings). Remember the proper phase relationships between the
phase windings of Δ and Y: (Figure below)

(Y) The center point of the “Y” must tie either all the “-” or all the “+” winding points together.
(Δ) The winding polarities must stack together in a complementary manner ( + to -).

Getting this phasing correct when the windings aren’t shown in regular Y or Δ configuration can be
tricky. Let me illustrate, starting with the figure below.

Inputs A1, B1, C1 may be wired either “Δ” or “Y”, as may outputs A2, B2, C2.

Phase Wiring for “Y-Y” Transformer

Three individual transformers are to be connected together to transform power from one three-phase
system to another. First, I’ll show the wiring connections for a Y-Y configuration:
Note in Figure above how all the winding ends marked with dots are connected to their respective
phases A, B, and C, while the non-dot ends are connected together to form the centers of each “Y”.

Having both primary and secondary winding sets connected in “Y” formations allows for the use of
neutral conductors (N1 and N2) in each power system.

Phase Wiring for “Y-Δ” Transformer

Now, we’ll take a look at a Y-Δ configuration:

Note how the secondary windings (bottom set, Figure above) are connected in a chain, the “dot” side
of one winding connected to the “non-dot” side of the next, forming the Δ loop.

At every connection point between pairs of windings, a connection is made to a line of the second
power system (A, B, and C).

Phase Wiring for “Δ-Y” Transformer

Now, let’s examine a Δ-Y system in the figure below.

Phase wiring for “Δ-Y” transformer.

Such a configuration (Figure above) would allow for the provision of multiple voltages (line-to-line
or line-to-neutral) in the second power system, from a source power system having no neutral.

Phase Wiring for “Δ-Δ” Transformer

And finally, we turn to the Δ-Δ configuration:

Phase wiring for “Δ-Δ” transformer.

When there is no need for a neutral conductor in the secondary power system, Δ-Δ connection
schemes (Figure above) are preferred because of the inherent reliability of the Δ configuration.

Three-phase transformers can be connected in various configurations, primarily delta (Δ) and star (Y)
connections. Each connection type has its advantages and disadvantages, which can impact
performance, efficiency, and application suitability. Here’s a breakdown of the most common types:

1. Delta-Delta (Δ-Δ) Connection

Advantages:
- No Neutral Required: Delta connections do not require a neutral point, making them suitable for
systems where a neutral is not available.
- High Starting Torque: They provide higher starting torque for motors.
- Balanced Load Handling: Well-suited for handling unbalanced loads without significant voltage
drops.
- Lower Harmonics: Generally produces lower harmonic distortion compared to other connections.

Disadvantages:
- No Grounding: Lack of a neutral can complicate grounding and fault detection.
- Higher Phase Voltage: Each phase voltage is equal to the line voltage, which can be higher than
in Y connections.
- Potential Overheating: If one transformer in the delta connection fails, it can lead to overheating
in the remaining transformers.

2. Star-Star (Y-Y) Connection

Advantages:
- Neutral Point: Provides a neutral point, which is useful for grounding and connecting single-
phase loads.
- Lower Phase Voltage: Each phase voltage is lower than the line voltage, which can be
advantageous in certain applications.
- Easier Fault Detection: Grounding through a neutral allows for easier detection of earth faults.

Disadvantages:
- Harmonic Issues: More susceptible to harmonics, which can lead to overheating and reduced
efficiency.
- Unbalanced Loads: Can struggle with unbalanced loads, leading to voltage imbalances.
- Lower Starting Torque: Generally provides lower starting torque for motors compared to delta
connections.

3. Delta-Star (Δ-Y) Connection

Advantages:
- Step Down Voltage: Commonly used for stepping down voltage levels in power distribution.
- Neutral Availability: Provides a neutral point for single-phase loads.
- Improved Stability: Can handle unbalanced loads better than Y-Y connections.

Disadvantages:
- Harmonic Generation: Can introduce harmonics into the system due to the conversion process.
- Voltage Transformation: The line voltage on the delta side is higher, which may require careful
consideration in design.

4. Star-Delta (Y-Δ) Connection

Advantages:
- Reduced Starting Current: Often used in motor applications to reduce starting current and
torque.
- High Efficiency: Provides high efficiency in motor operation after starting.

Disadvantages:
- Complex Control: Requires additional control circuits for switching between Y and Δ, adding
complexity.
- Transient Response: Can experience transient issues during switching that may affect stability.

Summary

The choice of transformer connection depends on the specific requirements of the electrical system,
including load types, grounding needs, and efficiency considerations. Understanding the advantages
and disadvantages of each connection type is crucial for optimal system design and operation.
Open delta and T-connectins
When it comes to three-phase transformer connections, there are two primary types of connections
that are often used: Open Delta and T-connection. Both types have their specific advantages and
disadvantages depending on the application. Here’s a breakdown:

1. Open Delta Connection

An open delta (also known as V-connection) is a type of three-phase transformer connection where
only two transformers are used to provide the three-phase output. It is a reduction of the typical delta-
delta or delta-wye configuration.

Advantages of Open Delta Connection:

 Cost-Effective: Since only two transformers are used instead of three, the initial cost of
equipment is lower. This is beneficial in situations where a full three-phase transformer bank
is not needed.
 Simplicity: The connection is simple to install and maintain.
 Partial Load Operation: Open delta can still operate under reduced load conditions, making
it useful for systems where full load operation is not necessary.

Disadvantages of Open Delta Connection:

 Reduced Power Handling Capacity: An open delta connection provides only 57.7% (or
about 2/3) of the full capacity that a full delta connection would provide. It’s not suitable for
applications where full power capacity is needed.
 Unbalanced Load Problems: There may be higher chances of unbalanced voltages or
currents in certain applications, leading to inefficient operation.
 Overloading Risk: If the load exceeds the reduced power capacity, transformers could be
over-loaded and lead to system failure or damage.

2. T-Connection (or T-T Connection)

In a T-connection, the third-phase leg is derived from one of the phases of the transformer, creating
a unique three-phase output. This type of connection is often used when balancing three-phase loads
in certain specific configurations.

Advantages of T-Connection:

 Balanced Load Distribution: T-connections help balance the system in applications where
full three-phase power is not necessary, improving overall efficiency.
 Reduced Transformer Load: The T-connection can reduce the total load on each
transformer, spreading the demand more evenly across the system.
 Flexibility in Load Distribution: This configuration allows for a flexible means of
configuring power for certain smaller or specialized loads, such as in the case of medium- or
low-voltage applications.

Disadvantages of T-Connection:

 Less Common/More Complex Design: T-connections are not as commonly used as other
transformer connections, which may result in higher design complexity and a lack of standard
components or designs.
 Potential for Imbalance: If not properly balanced, the T-connection can suffer from
unbalanced load distribution, leading to inefficiencies.
  Limited Power Handling: Like Open Delta, the T-connection might not be ideal for larger
power requirements because of the way it shares the load across transformers.

Summary Comparison:
Criteria Open Delta Connection T-Connection

Cost Low (uses two transformers) Moderate (more complex design)

Efficiency Moderate, but can be unbalanced Better load distribution

Power Capacity 57.7% of the full capacity Depends on load balancing

Complexity Simple to install More complex design

Application Partial load, backup, smaller systems Balanced load, medium/low voltage systems

Reliability Less reliable at high loads Potential for imbalance if not configured well

Conclusion:

 Open Delta is best suited for applications where only partial power is needed or as a
temporary solution. It's affordable and simple, but its capacity and efficiency are limited.
 T-Connection is a more balanced approach for certain systems that require flexibility in load
distribution, but it tends to be more complex and can still experience issues with load
imbalances if not properly designed.

Choosing between these two depends on the specific needs of the system, such as cost
constraints, power requirements, and complexity tolerance.

Example 1: A 50 kVA, 13800/208 –V -Y distribution transformerhas a resistance of 1 per cent

and a reactance of 7 percent ver unit.

(a) What is the transformer’s phase impedance per unit referred to the high voltage side
(b) Calculate the transformer voltage regulation at full load and 0.8 p.f. lagging using the
calculated high side impedance.

Solution:

(a) For the high side, VL = 13,800 volt and apparant power S = 50kVA = 50000 VA. Since the
primary is delta connected, its phase voltage is equal to line voltage. i.e. V1, = 13800 volts.

The base impedance with respect to high voltage side can be calculated as

Zbase = V,base / I,base Sbase = 3 VL,base IL,base = 3V,base I,base

Therefore, I,base = Sbase/3V,base

Zbase = V,base / I,base = 3 (V,base )2 / Sbase = 3(13800)2 / 50000 = 11,426 

The per unit impedance of the transformer is 0.01 + j 0.07 pu

So, the transformer impedance with respect to high side is

 Zeq = Zeq,pu Zbase = ( 0.01 + j 0.07 )  11426  = 114.2 + j800 

(c) To determine the voltage regulation of a 3-phase transformer bank, determine the voltage
regulation of any single in the bank. As we know,

𝑽∅,𝟏 − 𝒂𝑽∅,𝟐
𝑽𝑹 = × 𝟏𝟎𝟎%
𝒂𝑽∅,𝟐

The rated transformer phase voltage on the primary is 13,800 V, so the rated phase current on the
primary is given by, I,1 = Sbase/3V,1 = 50000/(313800) = 1.208 A

Given, Power factor =0.8 lag. The angle is 36.87 lagging.

Here, turns ratio, a = 13800/(208/3)

Let R1,eq = R1 + a2R2 and X1,eq = X1 + a2X2 .

I1

R1,eq X1,eq
V1
aV2

Transformer equivalent circuit referred to primary

V,1 = aV,2 + I,1 (R1,eq + jX1,eq) = (13800/(208/3)  (208/3) 0 + 1.208-36.87  =( 0.01 + j 0.07 )
= 145062.73

𝟏𝟒, 𝟓𝟎𝟔 − 𝟏𝟑, 𝟖𝟎𝟎

𝑽𝑹 = × 𝟏𝟎𝟎% = 𝟓. 𝟏% 𝑨𝒏𝒔
𝟏𝟑𝟖𝟎𝟎
Open Delta Connection of Transformer: Calculation, Formula and
Diagram (V-V Connection)
Key learnings:

 Open Delta Connection Definition: An open delta connection transformer uses two single-
phase transformers to create a three-phase supply, typically used in emergencies.
 Efficiency: Open delta systems are less efficient than closed delta systems because they
provide less power output while operating at full transformer capacity.
 Calculation Formula: The capacity of an open delta system is found by multiplying the
square root of three with the rating of one transformer, resulting in a lower total power output
compared to a closed delta system.
 Diagram: The connection diagram shows how two transformers supply a three-phase load
with a unity power factor, illustrating the system’s operation.
 Load Distribution: In an open delta system, each transformer supplies 10 kVA, totaling 17.32
kVA, demonstrating how power is distributed and why efficiency drops.

What is an Open Delta Connection Transformer?

An open delta connection transformer uses two single-phase transformers to supply a three-phase
load. Also known as a V-V system, this setup is typically used only in emergencies because it is less
efficient than a closed delta (delta-delta) system used in normal operations.

Imagine you have three single-phase transformers, each rated at 10 kVA. If they are connected in a
delta connection on both primary and secondary sides, this forms a closed delta system.

How much 3Ø balanced load can be supplied by this combination?

The answer is, this combination can supply 30 kVA, three-phase balanced load. Load on each
transformer will be 10 kVA, i.e. each transformer is operating at its rated capacity.

If one transformer is damaged and disconnected for repairs, the remaining system functions as an
open delta system with only two single-phase transformers.

If VA = V0 , VB = V-120 and VC is open. Then, for balanced system, VA + VB + VC = 0

or, VC = -VA – VB = - V0 - V-120 = V120.

That means we get balanced voltage even if one transformer is open.

Now, how much 3Ø balanced load can be supplied by this combination?
Answer is, now we have two single-phase transformers of 10 kVA, but we are not able to supply 20
kVA, 3Ø balanced load. This combination can supply a maximum of 17.32 kVA three-phase balanced
load. Load on each transformer will be 10 kVA, i.e. each transformer is operating at its rated capacity.

The efficiency of this open delta system will be less as compared to the closed delta system. This is
because both transformers are operating at rated capacity (i.e. 10 kVA), so their losses will be full
load losses, but the output is reduced (output is 17.32 kVA instead of 20 KVA).

How do we calculate the 17.32 kVA value?

Let’s break down this calculation in the next section.

Capacity of open delta system = 3  rating of one transformer = 3  10 kVA= 17.32 kVA.
OR
Capacity of open delta system = 0.577 x rating of closed delta system=0.577 x 30 kVA= 17.32
kVA.
(The total load carried by open delta system is 57.7% of closed delta system)

1. If we need 15 KVA load 3 phase load, then the closest single phase rating of a transformer is 10
kVA and using three phase system the rating will be into 10 KVA  3 = 30 kVA, which is too much.
2. If one of the transformer in a delta delta Bank falls, so that the service may be continued with open
delta connection until the fault cleared. If the transformer is repaired or a good one is substitute,
substitute it . So it is very clear that they open interconnection is used during emergency condition

Except for a balanced load having a unity power factor, the two Transformers in open delts system
will operate at different power factors. When an open delta transformer bak delivers a balanced three
phase load whose power factor is cos, their power facors becomes

Pf1 = (30+)

Pf2 = (30- )

The reduction in rating also comes because the power factor at which the Transformer operate is
less than that of the total power factor. The average power factor is always 86.6% of the balance
load power factor

Example 1: Two transformers are connected in open delta and delivery balance three phase load of
245 kilowatt at 460 volts and a power factor 707. Calculate (a) the secondary line current; (b) the
kVA load on each transformer; (c) the power delivered by the individual Transformers; (d) if a third
transformer having the same rating as each other is added to form a Delta Bank, what total load can
be handled?
P = 3 VLIL cos or IL = P / (3 VL cos )
𝟐𝟒𝟓𝟎𝟎𝟎
(𝒂) 𝑰𝑳 = = 𝟒𝟑𝟒. 𝟗𝟑𝟗 𝑨 𝑇ℎ𝑖𝑠 𝑖𝑠 𝑠𝑒𝑐𝑜𝑛𝑑𝑎𝑟𝑦 𝑐𝑢𝑟𝑟𝑒𝑛𝑡.
√𝟑 (𝟒𝟔𝟎)(𝟎. 𝟕𝟎𝟕)
(b) The KVA load on each transformer = 460  434.939 = 200,071.94 VA  200 kVA

(c) The effective power delivered by each transformer

Given load power factor, cos = 0.707. Therefore,  = 45.
Pf1 = cos(30+) = cos 75 = 0.259 P1 = 200  0.259 = 51.8 kW

Pf2 = cos(30- ) = cos15 = 0.966 P2 = 200  0.966 = 193.2 kW

Total power = 51.8 + 193.2 = 245 kW (Checked)

(d) The kVA rating of each transformer = 200 kVA

KVA( bank) = 3  200= 600 kVA. It can handle 600 kVA.

But open delta handle = 3 200 = 173.2 kVA

Example 2: Two transformers are connected in open delta and deliver a balanced three phase load
of 150 kilowatt at 230 volts and the power factor of 0.82. Calculate (a) the secondary line current;
(b) the kVA load on each transformer, (c) the power delivered by the individual transformer.

Solution:

𝟏𝟓𝟎𝟎𝟎𝟎
(𝒂) 𝑰𝑳 = = 𝟒𝟓𝟗. 𝟏𝟖𝟔 𝑨 𝑇ℎ𝑖𝑠 𝑖𝑠 𝑠𝑒𝑐𝑜𝑛𝑑𝑎𝑟𝑦 𝑐𝑢𝑟𝑟𝑒𝑛𝑡.
√𝟑 (𝟐𝟑𝟎)(𝟎. 𝟖𝟐)

(b) The KVA load on each transformer = 230  459.186 = 105 612.85 VA  105.6 kVA

(c) The effective power delivered by each transformer

Given load power factor, cos = 0.82. Therefore,  = 34.9.

Pf1 = cos(30+) = cos 64.9 = 0.424 P1 = 105.6  0.259 = 44.774 kW

Pf2 = cos(30- ) = cos4.9 = 0.996 P2 = 105.6  0.966 = 105.178 kW

Total power = 44.77 + 105.178= 149.952 kW (Checked)

Scott-T Transformer Connection
The Scott-T connection is a method of connecting two 1-phase transformers to perform the 3-
phase to 2-phase conversion and vice-versa. In the Scott connection, the two 1-phase transformers
are connected electrically (not magnetically), where one transformer is known as main
transformer and the other is called as auxiliary or teaser transformer.

The connection diagram of the Scott connection is shown in the figure. The main transformer is the
centre tapped transformer at point D and is connected across the lines Y and B of the 3- phase side.
Thus, the primary of the main transformer is YB and the secondary is a1a2. The teaser transformer is
connected between the line terminal R and the centre tapping point D. Thus, the teaser transformer
has primary winding RD and the secondary winding b1b2.

Phasor Diagram of Scott-T Connection

The phasor diagram of the Scott connection is shown in the figure.

Here, the line voltages of the three-phase balanced supply systb are −

VRY=VYB=VBR=VL
Let VYB be taken as the reference phasor, then

VYB=VL∠0∘
VRY=VL∠+120∘
VBR=VL∠−120∘

The figure also shows the voltages on the primary windings of the main and teaser transformers.
Since, the centre tapping point D divides the primary winding YB of the main transformer into two
equal halves. Therefore,

Number of turns in portion YD= Number of turns in portion DB=NP2

Hence, the voltages VYD and VDB are equal and in phase with the voltage VYB i.e.

VYD=VDB=VBC2=VL2∠0∘…(1)

Now, the voltage between terminals R and D is

VRD=VRY+VYD=VL∠120∘+VL2∠0∘
⇒VRD=[VL(−12+j√32)]+[VL2(1+j0)]
⇒VRD=j√32VL=0.866VL∠90∘…(2)

Thus, the primary voltage VRD of the teaser transformer is 0.866 times of that of the main
transformer and is 90° displaced from it in time.

hort Questions
Single-Phase Transformers

1. What is a single-phase transformer?

2. What is the principle of operation of a transformer?
3. What are the main components of a single-phase transformer?
4. What is the difference between the primary and secondary windings in a transformer?
5. Explain the terms "rated voltage" and "rated current" in the context of a transformer.
 6. What is the significance of the turns ratio in a transformer?
7. Define transformer efficiency.
8. What is meant by “no-load current” in a transformer?
9. What are core losses in a transformer?
10. What is the function of a transformer’s core?
11. What is the difference between step-up and step-down transformers?
12. What does the "impedance" of a transformer refer to?
13. What are the different types of transformer losses?
14. What is the concept of “magnetic coupling” in transformers?
15. How does a short-circuit test on a transformer work?
16. What are the consequences of overloading a transformer?
17. What is the significance of the power factor in transformer operation?
18. How does frequency affect the operation of a transformer?

Three-Phase Transformers

1. What is a three-phase transformer?

2. What is the principle of operation of a three-phase transformer?
3. How is a three-phase transformer different from a single-phase transformer?
4. What are the advantages of three-phase transformers over single-phase transformers?
5. What is the connection between the phases in a three-phase transformer?
6. What are the different winding configurations in three-phase transformers?
7. Explain the concept of "Delta-Delta" connection in a three-phase transformer.
8. What is the "Star-Delta" connection in a three-phase transformer?
9. What is the "Y-Y" connection in a three-phase transformer?
10. Explain why three-phase transformers are used in industrial power distribution.
11. What is the difference between “star” and “delta” connections in three-phase transformers?
12. What is a Scott-T connection in transformers?
13. What is the importance of three-phase transformers in large industrial systems?
14. Explain how a three-phase transformer operates at full load.

Broad Questions
Single-Phase Transformers

1. Discuss the working principle of a single-phase transformer and explain the role of the magnetic
core.
2. Explain the losses in a single-phase transformer, including core losses, copper losses, and how
they affect transformer efficiency.
3. Derive the equation for the transformer’s efficiency and discuss the factors affecting it.
4. Discuss the application of single-phase transformers in domestic power distribution systems.
5. Describe the different tests performed on single-phase transformers, including the open-circuit
and short-circuit tests, and explain how they help in determining transformer parameters.
6. Discuss the effects of voltage regulation in a single-phase transformer and how it is measured.
7. Explain the significance of the turns ratio in voltage regulation and how it impacts transformer
design.

Three-Phase Transformers

1. Explain the operation and construction of three-phase transformers. How do they differ from
single-phase transformers in terms of performance and efficiency?
2. Discuss the different types of three-phase transformer connections (Star-Star, Delta-Delta, Star-
Delta) and their applications in the power system.
3. Explain the method of vector group classification in three-phase transformers and its importance
in determining the connection and operation of the transformer.
4. Discuss the role of three-phase transformers in the generation, transmission, and distribution of
electrical power.
5. What are the advantages and disadvantages of using a three-phase transformer compared to a
single-phase transformer in industrial applications?
6. Describe the construction of a three-phase transformer and how its design differs from that of a
single-phase transformer.
7. Describe the operation of a three-phase autotransformer and compare it with a traditional three-
phase transformer in terms of performance and efficiency.
8. Discuss how the cooling of three-phase transformers is handled in large power plants, and
explain the importance of cooling in maintaining transformer health.
9. Explain the importance of three-phase transformers in renewable energy systems, especially in
wind and solar power generation.
10. How do three-phase transformers help improve power factor and efficiency in industrial
applications?
11. Explain the implications of harmonics in a three-phase transformer and how they can affect
system performance.