Analysis design of new generation of fixed venilation fan for power transformer

• Main Author: Navin Raas
• Published: 2023
• Subjects: New generation of fixed ventilation; Power transformer

Power transformers are used to transfer electrical energy from generator to transmission line as a step-up transformer or step-down transformer. Power transformers produce heat through the process of transferring the electrical energy. This may affect the life span of the power transformers when it undergoes the overload. In order to keep the power transformer to run on its optimal temperature 60°C, transformer oil was introduced to avoid any increase in temperature. The pump helps to circulate the transformer oil from power transformer to the radiator fins. The heat from the transformer oil will release out to the surround from the power transformer radiator fins. The rate of heat exchange from the power transformer radiator fins to the surrounding was low. This leads the life span of the transformer oil to reduce due to the cellulose condition would be worsen. Furthermore, reduce in life span of the transformer oil which leads to frequent maintenance. To increase the rate of heat exchange from the radiator fins to the surrounding cooling systems were installed on the radiator fins to have higher heat exchange. The cooling system which is single motor fan was installed in different position of the radiator fin was tested in CFD simulation to identify the suitable location to install the cooling fan on the power transformer. CFD simulation was used to study the fluid flow on the fan cover to justify the number of fans needed to cool down the system. The new design of the fixed ventilation cooling fan cover was compared with material selection and tested on stress analysis to obtain the maximum von misses stress. Future studies may also include more up to date enhancements in cooling system with the usage of fluid coolant rather than air cooling system to reduce the temperature of the power transformer.