All transformers, be it distribution or power transformers, act as the backbone that supports and the energy distribution in our homes and industries. Hence, selecting the right transformer is very important on the basis of where it is going to be used as there are various types of transformers. Proper selection of transformer type and rating not only results in the smooth power distribution in our homes and offices but will have an extensive effect on the overall growth and development of the industry.
Selecting the transformers is a very critical task and it should not be undermined in any way. Various technical and economic factors should be considered and observed carefully. Then only, one will be successful in selecting the right transformer and get the maximum benefit from them. All the different factors like load, voltage, losses, accessories, etc. should be considered while picking a transformer. Connected load and transformer loading is one of the most important factors in transformer selection and loading of transformers could even change from time to time.
Loading of transformers won’t remain the same throughout the day so selecting the right transformer as per the required loading is very important. Here are some technical parameters which will help you to choose the perfect transformer as per the requirement.
KVA Rating, Voltage Class (Primary and Secondary)
Voltage required by load, amperes or KVA required by the load, frequency in Hz and verify load which is designed to work on these three phases are all very important to be maintained in order to get proper loading in a transformer. The necessary standards for the above parameters may vary from transformer to transformer and we can get all the information regarding standard data can be got from instruction manuals and templates. Hence, we should check out the instructions and work on the transformers accordingly to get the best use out of them and also for selecting the right transformer.
No Load & Load Losses
According to the loading cycle, we should select the suitable transformer which will help us to save energy, charges and achieve the demands in the most effective way possible. Based on varied loading, the industries are also categorized as one where consumption is 1% or 2% of manufacturing cost of final product, one in which loading is around 75%, one in which loading varies between no load to 100%, and one in which energy cost is 50% - 90% of the final product. We should thoroughly research about which of the type of industry the transformer is going to be used in then only we will be successful in selecting the right transformer.
Find out supply voltage and determine voltage required by load
After installing the transformers, we should know what the available voltage is to connect to the primary of the transformer. Line voltage or primary voltage is the power from the local power source so you should maintain it in the transformer accordingly for the best results. Similarly, we should also determine the voltage required by the load. This is the secondary voltage or output voltage of the transformer and is required to operate the loads. Hence, selecting the right transformer isn’t just the job end of our work as we should also maintain the voltage according to the load in order to get the best usage of the transformers.
Flux Density & it’s Importance
Flux density can simply be understood as the amount of magnetic flux passing through lamination of transformer. Value of flux density is one of the most important factor for any transformer. When the voltage increases, the flux density also increases. E.g., let us take an example of a transformer designed on 1.7 T and now let’s suppose voltage increases by 10% i.e. 12 KV instead of 11 KV, then flux density also increases by 10% and value will reach about 1.87 T which is near the saturation point. In this situation, core may get overheated due to winding temperature, structural parts increasing the oil abnormally and finally resulting in damage of transformer. Hence, flux density is also a part that needs be focused on and maintained while selecting the right transformer.
Tap Changers
We all are aware that the voltage situation in Nepal’s case is a critical one and changes on a daily basis. Hence, to get the constant output voltage on outside side tap changer mechanism is needed. Since in our case, the voltage change occurs frequently on a daily basis, it would be best to use automatic tap changers that operate with computer controlled mechanisms.
Protection
Transformers are electrical devices that operate continuously on a regular basis. Therefore, if proper protection isn’t given various problems may arise. There may be reduction in product quality, production stoppage and equipment damages may occur which results in financial loss. While selecting the right transformer, we should also install proper winding / oil temperature indicator. This device gives temperature rise values along with alarm and trip contact which operates if temperatures go beyond predefined limits.
Buchholz relay is another device that needs to be installed in the transformers which gives alarm and trip facility if there is any abnormal gas formation which are usually caused due to insulation failure or overheating. Magnetic oil level gauze is another device which needs to be installed in the transformers. This device gives all the information about oil level in the transformer and lets the operators know if the oil levels go down We should monitor all these parameters while picking out a transformer depending on where it is going to be used, then only we will be selecting the right transformer.
Selecting the right transformer is a very important task as this will even shape the power distribution in the overall area. Here at BN Mahto Group, we offer the best distribution transformers and HDPE pipes in Nepal. So if you are looking forward to acquiring transformers and are confused about selecting the right transformer, feel free to contact us.