Efficient finite element model for power transformer optimization

Abstract-- In this article, an efficient model for the finite element analysis of distribution transformers is presented. In this model, a particular reduced scalar potential formulation is adopted, necessitating no prior source field calculation, reducing significantly the computational effort of the magnetic field sources calculation. This formulation, in conjunction with the detailed modeling of the transformer windings results to a computational tool, which allows the accurate and fast transformer optimization. Comparisons between this method and test values for a number of commercial transformers, prove its validity and accuracy. The model is also used for the magnetic field and transformer characteristics prediction under open circuit test. I. TRANSFORMER MODELING METHODOLOGY A. Particular reduced scalar potential formulation The finite element method is a numerical technique for the solution of problems described by partial differential equations. The governing equation in the case of a magnetostatic field is the Laplace equation