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.