Earthing transformers are used to create a neutral point in a

three-phase system, which provides possibility for neutral

earthing. The earthing can be through an arc-suppression
reactor, a neutral earthing reactor or resistor or directly.

The design can be a transformer with just one winding, which is

zigzag connected. The zero sequence impedance of such a
winding is normally quite low, but it can be increased if the
purpose is to limit the current through the transformer in case of
an earth fault somewhere in the system. Figure shows the
connection diagram.
During undisturbed system operation with balanced (symmetrical) voltages the
current through the earthing transformer is small & of the same size as the
magnetizing current. Unbalanced voltages will cause some higher currents
flowing through the earthing transformer, which it must be capable to carry.

An alternative connection to the zigzag is star/delta connection where the delta

connected winding will compensate the zero sequence magnetic fields so it will
be confined to a leakage field between the star and the delta winding and make
the zero sequence impedance of the transformer relatively small. However, if it
is desired to increase the zero sequence impedance, this can be achieved by
opening the delta connection and insert a reactor or resistor

It is possible to provide the earthing transformer with a secondary winding for

continuous auxiliary station supply.

Earthing transformers are usually oil immersed and may be installed outdoor. In
cases where a separate reactor is connected between the transformer neutral
and earth, the reactor and the transformer can be incorporated in the same

Earthing Transformers. Sheet 1 of 2.

 tank.

When the earthing transformer is going to be used together with an arc-

suppression reactor, the rated current (and its duration) of the earthing
transformer will be determined by the data for the arc-suppression reactor.

If the earthing transformer is used for directly earthing or through a current

limiting reactor, the neutral current through the transformer will be high but the
duration is limited to a few seconds. Earthing transformer must be designed to
withstand the thermal and mechanical effects of the rated neutral current. The
characteristic of earthing transformer should be selected to match the property
of the system.

Most of the time in service the loading of earthing transformers is very low. It is
the randomly occurring short – duration currents that cause any heating of
significance. Ageing of the cellulose materials is then not a matter of concern.
Regarding acceptable temperatures there are two aspects to consider. The
temperature during currents of say 10 seconds duration must not cause
softening of the winding conductor material, say 250o C for copper and 200 o C
for aluminium.

For currents with duration in the order of hours or more, temperatures that
cause excessive gas development in the oil should be avoided. Temperatures for
items in direct contact with the oil should then not exceed 140 o C

The system earth fault protection relay may not be effective at low currents. To
prevent damage to earthing transformer by such current, oil thermometer with
alarm/trip contacts is recommended. Alternatively, the value of maximum
continuous earth fault current may be declared and sensitive protection
provided.

For earthing transformers that carry continuous load because of a secondary

winding that supplies local consumers, the temperature limits in IEC 60076-2
(1993-04) Power transformers Part 2; Temperature rise apply.

Earthing Transformers. Sheet 2 of 2.