Advanced computational tools for wound core distribution transformer no‐load analysis

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to present an accurate representation of laminated wound cores with a low computational cost using 2D and 3D finite element (FE) method.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors developed an anisotropy model in order to model laminated wound cores. The anisotropy model was integrated to the 2D and 3D FE method. A comparison between 2D and 3D FE techniques was carried out. FE techniques were validated by experimental analysis.

Findings

In the case of no‐load operation of wound core transformers both 2D and 3D FE techniques yield the same results. Computed and experimental local flux density distribution and no‐load loss agree within 2 per cent to 6 per cent.

Originality/value

The originality of the paper consists in the development of an anisotropy model specifically formulated for laminated wound cores, and in the effective representation of electrical steels using a composite single‐valued function. By using the aforementioned techniques, the FE computational cost is minimised and the 3D FE analysis of wound cores is rendered practical.

Citation

Kefalas, T.D. and Kladas, A.G. (2012), "Advanced computational tools for wound core distribution transformer no‐load analysis", COMPEL - The international journal for computation and mathematics in electrical and electronic engineering, Vol. 31 No. 2, pp. 682-691. https://doi.org/10.1108/03321641211200653