Modeling and realization of dry type transformer with optimum weight and efficiency characteristics

When compared to the oil-filled transformers, dry type transformers are widely used in power distribution systems due to their non-flammable characteristic, high electrical strength against short circuits, easy maintenance and superior environmental performance. However, the thermal behavior of these transformers is undesirable since they have the natural cooling mechanism and operate at high temperatures in the distributed power systems. Moreover, the dry type transformers need the larger coils compared to oil-filled transformers with the same capacity ratings due to requiring a better insulating system. This case results in higher costs. Therefore, the main aim of this thesis is to design and produce a 3-phase dry-type transformer based on optimum weight and efficiency. Firstly, a mathematical model of a 3-phase dry-type transformer is obtained taken in the account of the transformer's design parameters and losses in the core and windings. Secondly, this transformer is optimized by using Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) method, one of the most preferred optimization methods in the literature. Thirdly, the transformer is designed by using it's the optimization parameters in ANSYS/Maxwell program so electromagnetic and thermal analysis of the transformer is performed. Finally, the transformer which is optimized, designed and analyzed efficiently is manufactured in the lower weight and higher efficiency. The manufactured transformer is also tested in the laboratory. Thus, the designed transformer is also verified experimentally. It is hoped that this thesis will contribute to the researchers and transformer manufacturing industries dealing with the optimum design, electromagnetic and thermal analysis of the 3-phase dry type transformers.