A Novel Fast FEA No-Load Loss Calculation Method for Stacked Core Three Phase Distribution Transformers

Abstract Almost one third of the overall transmission and distribution systems energy losses are lost in distribution transformers, while its core losses account for almost 70 % of the total transformers losses. A reasonably fast calculation tool to facilitate the core loss optimization through accurate predetermination of the impact of different design parameters on its losses seems indispensable, for a transformer manufacturer. In this paper, a novel fast 2-D FEA transformer core loss determination method is presented. Assuming the normal component of the magnetic field to be zero, this method reduces the computation time substantially in comparison with the available conventional methods (maintaining the same accuracy level). Employing Gaussian fitting curve, the anisotropic and the non-linear behavior of the magnetic core material are modeled. The extra core losses which occur in the core sheets joints and the stacking holes are simulated accurately in this work. The proposed method is implemented on 12 different commercial size distribution transformers, to verify the speed and the accuracy of this computation method