Projects:2014S1-29 Measurement and Estimation of Transformer Parameters

Project Information

The aim of this project is to rigorously combine measurements of practical transformers, with standard transformer-models, using the method of least squares and optimisation techniques, to obtain best estimates of transformer-model parameters. Transformers are the most important building-block of power transmission systems. They are used to transform the magnitudes of voltages and currents. They are used to match sources to loads, to reduce losses, and to improve efficiency. They isolate consumers from dangerous voltages in the transmission network. One of the main problems with modelling transformers is that the fields are distributed in space, which means that lumped models will always be approximate. Also, most practical transformers are significantly non-linear due to saturation of magnetic materials. Transformer models are always provisional, and only apply within certain ranges of current, and frequency. The practical goal of a modeller is to match a chosen equivalent-circuit, to a given device in such a way as to minimise any discrepancy between the observed behaviour of the device and the predicted behaviour of the model.

Outline of Main Tasks

• Task 1: Literature search on transformer models and measurement techniques
• Task 2: Identification of a suitable physical transformer for initial study
• Task 3: Open-circuit tests of the transformer using inductor models
• Task 4: Open-Circuit and Short-circuit tests of the transformer, using inductor, and coupled-magnetic-circuit models.
• Task 5: Full-analysis of the transformer, under many (at least seven...) loading conditions, and full estimates of all parameters.

High Level Design

• Stage 1:
  • Basic equipment setup(transformer, current sensor)

• Stage 2:
  • SC & OC tests based on the transformer module, transformer parameter estimation

• Stage 3:
  • 7 different loading conditions, power source under different frequencies conditions.

Task Allocation

• David Minh Nguyen
  • Project management
  • Calibrate the current sensor
  • PCB design
  • Set up the equipment, plan and do most of OC, SC tests, tests with **loads and record results
  • Implemented Software Architecture
  • Processing and refinement of results

• Chandima De Silva
  • Implemented Software Architecture
  • Calibrate the current sensor
  • PCB design
  • Participate the OC, SC tests and tests with loads and record results
  • Processing and refinement of results

• Rui Song
  • Project Plan
  • Select relevant equipment and balance budget
  • PCB design
  • Negotiate with relevant personnels (Danny, Pevel, Aubrey etc.)
  • Calibrate the current sensor
  • Participate the OC, SC tests and tests with loads and record results

Supervisors

• Dr Andrew Allison
• Dr Rastko Zivanovic

Workplace

• Bench 6 in Project Lab