Technique for inrush current modelling of power transformers based on core saturation analysis

Abstract

Energising a power transformer may cause inrush current, which misleads the protection systems. Therefore, the inrush current analysis is important in designing and protecting power transformers. The non-linear behaviour of transformer core saturation makes this analysis difficult. Thus, several researches try to model the core saturation and inrush current. This study presents a new technique based on core flux analysis to develop an equivalent circuit for power transformer during inrush current. For this purpose, a new λ-i equivalent circuit is proposed for saturated core transformer by transformation of conventional v-i circuit. This λ-i equivalent circuit clearly shows the effect of parameters on transformer saturation and inrush current; and provides a powerful insight into these phenomena. Moreover, new equations are developed which can predict inrush current and core-flux envelopes. The predicted waveforms can be compared with measured transformer current to detect transformer internal-fault during inrush current, which is a challenge in transformer protection. This model and the equations are compared with the recorded inrush current waveform of a real transformer, and simulation results. These comparisons verify the efficiency of the model and accuracy of the equations. © 2018, The Institution of Engineering and Technology.