Transformer Electrical tests

Turn ratio test

This uses a low-voltage signal. If possible, connect this to the high-voltage winding
and use the measuring equipment to collect data from the low-voltage winding. If you
must test the transformer from the low-voltage side, use the lowest available voltage.

Winding resistance test

The test is normally performed on each winding separately. Start from the high-
voltage side and then move to the low-voltage side. Disconnecting the leads during
current injection while performing the test may result in a high-energy discharge.
Ensure you discharge and de-magnetise the transformer after running a direct
current winding resistance tests. For large Y configured transformers, use the
simultaneous winding magnetisation technique. This injects the test current through
high-voltage and low-voltage windings simultaneously, shortening the measurement
time.

Dissipation factor (tan ) test

This is a high-voltage test. Be sure your testing equipment is properly earthed and
safely connected to the transformer. You will almost certainly encounter electro-
magnetic interference, which must be suppressed by the test equipment. Record the
temperature of the insulation system and apply a correction factor to normalise the
results to 20C, using either a table of factors or an individual temperature correction
factor determined using sweep frequency technology. Verify bushings are clean and
dry to avoid problems with leakage currents and also ensure that neither the high-
voltage leads nor the measurement leads are in contact with any earthed point.

Excitation current test

This test is usually performed only on the high-voltage side of the transformer. Either
a transformer turn ratio (TTR) tester or a dissipation factor test set can be used. The
major difference is the test voltage. Never compare results for a test performed at
100 volts with a test at 10 kilovolts they are very different, because of the widely
differing excitation voltages applied.

Short circuit impedance test

When you short circuit the secondary winding for this test, a high current is likely to
flow. Therefore, use jumper cables of at least 50 mm2 cross sectional area.

Insulation resistance test

You should discharge the transformer before and after performing insulation
resistance tests so that personnel are not put at risk by residual charges. Be aware
of possible leakage currents flowing on the surface of bushings and use the
insulation resistance test set guard lead to minimise the effect of these currents.

SFRA test
This new test can detect many types of fault. It is straightforward, but it is essential to
following standards and procedures to ensure repeatability. The test is sensitive to
connections and set-up and you should be aware of the effect of noise on your
testing device. The transfer function of many transformers reaches a value close to -
90dB and sometimes down to -100 dB and, therefore, your instrumentation must
have a wide dynamic range. Earthing practices are critical.
CIGRE 342 (2008): Mechanical Condition Assessment of Transformer Windings
Using Frequency Response Analysis describes in section 2.4.1.2 how to use
adjustable extension leads. Note that residual magnetisation in the core will affect
open circuit readings, so de-magnetize the transformer before performing SFRA
tests. For more detailed instructions see CIGRE 342 section 2.4.8.

Diekectric frequency response (DFR) test

Insulation diagnostic testing using Dielectric Frequency Response (DFR), which is
also called Frequency Domain Spectroscopy (FDS), is useful for determining the
moisture concentration in solid insulation, the conductivity of liquid insulation and the
temperature dependence of the dissipation factor. The procedure is similar to
performing a tan test. The main differences are that with DFR, the capacitance and
tan measurements are made over a range of frequencies and at a lower voltage,
typically 140 Vrms. Recommendations regarding input signal location and
measurement leads are the same as those for tan testing.
When performing this test, refer to CIGRE 254 - Dielectric Response Methods for
Diagnostics of Power Transformers, and CIGRE 414 - Dielectric Response
Diagnoses for Transformer Windings, section 4.1.3. - Suggested Checklist for
Execution of Dielectric Response Measurements on Power Transformers.
We hope this brief set of recommendations will help you perform transformer testing
in a safe manner, producing accurate results and valuable readings. Please
remember to practice good management of the data obtained from field tests.
Always keep an accurate record of the results, as data trending will help you to
better determine the condition of the transformer.