Application Note

Measuring and Analyzing the Dielectric Response of Power Transformers

Author Maik Koch | maik.koch@omicron.at Date Feb 2010 Related OMICRON Product DIRANA Application Area Power Transformers Version v2.0 Document ID ANP_10018_ENU

Abstract This application guide informs how to measure and analyze the dielectric response of power transformers in order to reliably assess the moisture content of the paper and pressboard insulation.

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Content
1 Using this document ....................................................................................................................... 4 1.1 Operator Qualifications and Safety Standards ........................................................................... 4 1.2 Safety Measures ....................................................................................................................... 4 1.3 Related Documents .................................................................................................................. 4 Preparing the Transformer ............................................................................................................. 5 2.1 Disconnection from the Network ................................................................................................ 5 2.2 Gathering Transformer Data ..................................................................................................... 5
2.2.1 2.2.2 2.2.3 2.2.4 2.2.5 Insulation Temperature ................................................................................................................5 Nameplate Data ...........................................................................................................................6 Oil Tests ......................................................................................................................................7 Environmental Conditions.............................................................................................................8 Other Information .........................................................................................................................8

Connecting DIRANA to the Transformer ........................................................................................ 9 3.1 Basic Measurement Circuit Guarding Principle ....................................................................... 9 3.2 General Procedure ..................................................................................................................10 3.3 Wiring Diagram for Various Winding Set-Ups ...........................................................................12
3.3.1 3.3.2 3.3.3 3.3.4 Two Winding Transformer .......................................................................................................... 12 Three Winding Transformer ........................................................................................................ 12 Autotransformer with tertiary winding .......................................................................................... 13 Shunt Reactor and autotransformer without tertiary winding ........................................................ 13

3.4 4 5

Which HV Devices Can Be Left Connected? ............................................................................14

Setting up the Software..................................................................................................................16 4.1 Required Stop Frequency for Subsequent Moisture Analysis....................................................17 Performing the Measurement ........................................................................................................18 5.1 Pre Measurement Check .........................................................................................................18 5.2 Development of the Dissipation Factor Curve ...........................................................................19 5.3 Creating a Measurement Report ..............................................................................................20 5.4 Measurement Errors ................................................................................................................20
5.4.1 5.4.2 5.4.3 5.4.4 5.4.5 Voltage Source Overload ........................................................................................................... 20 Input Overflow ........................................................................................................................... 20 Negative Dissipation Factor ........................................................................................................ 20 Dip at the Transition from Time to Frequency Domain ................................................................. 21 Disturbances during Time Domain Measurement ........................................................................ 22

6 7

Interpreting the Dielectric Response in Frequency Domain ........................................................23 6.1 Superposition of Dielectric Properties .......................................................................................23 Moisture Analysis Using DIRANA..................................................................................................26 7.1 Principle of Moisture Analysis ..................................................................................................26 7.2 Step by Step Guide for Moisture Analysis ................................................................................26 7.3 Analysis of a Measurement with Limited Frequency Range ......................................................29 Assessing the Analysis Results ....................................................................................................30 8.1 Assessment According to IEC 60422 .......................................................................................30 8.2 Accuracy of Analysis Results ...................................................................................................31 8.3 Comparison to Other Moisture Measurement Techniques ........................................................31 Contact Technical Support ............................................................................................................33

10 Literature ........................................................................................................................................34

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Please use this note only in combination with the related product manual which contains several important safety instructions. The user is responsible for every application that makes use of an OMICRON product. OMICRON electronics GmbH including all international branch offices is henceforth referred to as OMICRON. OMICRON 2010. All rights reserved. This application note is a publication of OMICRON. All rights including translation reserved. Reproduction of any kind, for example, photocopying, microfilming, optical character recognition and/or storage in electronic data processing systems, requires the explicit consent of OMICRON. Reprinting, wholly or in part, is not permitted. The product information, specifications, and technical data embodied in this application note represent the technical status at the time of writing and are subject to change without prior notice. We have done our best to ensure that the information given in this application note is useful, accurate and entirely reliable. However, OMICRON does not assume responsibility for any inaccuracies which may be present. OMICRON translates this application note from the source language English into a number of other languages. Any translation of this document is done for local requirements, and in the event of a dispute between the English and a nonEnglish version, the English version of this note shall govern.

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Using this document

This application guide provides detailed information on how to measure and to analyze the dielectric response of an oil-paper-insulated power transformer using OMICRON DIRANA. Please refer to national and international safety regulations relevant to working with DIRANA. The regulation EN 50191 "The Erection and Operation of Electrical Test Equipment" as well as all the applicable regulations for accident prevention in the country and at the site of operation has to be fulfilled.

1.1

Operator Qualifications and Safety Standards

Working on HV devices is extremely dangerous. The measurements described in this Application Guide must be carried out only by qualified, skilled and authorized personnel. Before starting to work, clearly establish the responsibilities. Personnel receiving training, instructions, directions, or education on the measurement setup must be under constant supervision of an experienced operator while working with the equipment. The measurement must comply with the relevant national and international safety standards listed below: EN 50191 (VDE 0104) "Erection and Operation of Electrical Equipment" EN 50110-1 (VDE 0105 Part 100) "Operation of Electrical Installations" IEEE 510 "Recommended Practices for Safety in High-Voltage and High-Power Testing" LAPG 1710.6 NASA "Electrical Safety"

Moreover, additional relevant laws and internal safety standards have to be followed.

1.2

Safety Measures

Before starting a measurement, read the safety rules in the DIRANA User Manual and observe the application specific safety instructions in this Application Note when performing measurements to protect yourself from high-voltage hazards.

1.3

Related Documents
Title
DIRANA User Manual

Description
Contains information on how to use the DIRANA test system and relevant safety instructions.

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2
2.1

Preparing the Transformer

Disconnection from the Network
For a dielectric response measurement, the transformer needs to be switched off and then disconnected from the network. All connections to the HV, MV and LV bushings should be removed in a similar as to conventional dissipation factor tests. If complete disconnection is impossible, please refer to p. 14. After switching off it is not necessary to wait for a cool down period or for moisture equilibrium. However, in order to avoid rapid temperature changes, the cooling system should be off during the measurement.

2.2
2.2.1

Gathering Transformer Data

Insulation Temperature Various data provide useful information in order to reliably assess the condition of a transformer. The temperature of the insulation is of essential importance for moisture analysis and, therefore, should be carefully noted. To measure this value, the oil temperature may be used. As an example, Figure 1 depicts the temperature distribution in a large power transformer with ONAN cooling. The top oil temperature best correlates with the average insulation temperature.

Figure 1: Example of temperature distribution in a large power transformer with ONAN cooling according to IEC 60354

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Temperature from Oil Sample The most accurate way to determine the top oil temperature is to take an oil sample and measure the temperature directly on-site of that oil. After opening the valve, colder oil trapped in the valve will flow out at first, thus, wait for sufficient time in order to get a representative reading. Temperature from Build-In Temperature Gauge If direct sampling of the oil is not possible, the temperature of the built-in temperature gauge may be used. This, however, may display inaccurate readings depending on the place, where the temperature probe is located. Figure 2 depicts a build-in temperature gauge of a transformer. Taking photographs helps for later data analysis and documentation.

Figure 2: Built-in temperature gauge displaying the top oil temperature; in this case 42C

Temperature from Contact Thermometers Another way to determine the top oil temperature is to place a contact thermometer on top of the transformer tank. Temperature from Winding Resistance Measurement The winding temperature may also be calculated using winding resistance measurement. From the difference between the winding resistance during the dielectric response measurement and that in the workshop at ambient temperature the winding temperature may be calculated. Temperature Change during Measurement If the transformer has been switched off prior to the measurement, the temperature will slowly decrease. Typical temperature time constants for power transformers are 1-2 Kelvin/h. Since a dielectric response measurement takes typically less than 1 h, in maximum 3 h, the decrease in temperature will be of minor importance. However, the cooling systems must be turned off. 2.2.2 Nameplate Data The transformer nameplate displays the winding configuration which is essential information for making correct connect of the DIRANA instrument. Beside this, the year of manufacture and the voltage ratio help to check the consistency of the subsequent moisture analysis. Taking a photograph of the nameplate, again, helps in the documentation process.

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2.2.3

Oil Tests The operators of power transformers depend heavily on the periodic sampling of the oil. The screening consists of several parameters that are of particular interest with regard to the dielectric response measurement: Acidity High acidity reflects paper and oil aging and often increases the oil conductivity. It takes a certain quantity of an alkaline material to neutralize these acids. A standard method that is used to find this quantity neutralization number is to mix potassium hydroxide (KOH) with the acid/oil until it is neutralized, and is measured in milligrams of KOH per gram of oil. [ASTM D974, D664, D1534]. New oils have an acidity below 0.05 mg KOH / g oil. It increases with aging to 0.5 and above. The conductivity of oil is influenced by acids and given in Siemens per meter, that is S / m or 1/m. New oils have around 0.05 pS/m and a conductivity of above 20 pS/m at ambient temperature points on a progressed aging state. Water content in oil Since the water content in oil in ppm strictly depends on temperature, no levels of permitted moisture concentration based on ppm can be given. By applying the water content in oil (ppm) and the sampling temperature (C) to a moisture equilibrium diagram (Figure 3) a very rough estimation of moisture content in paper can be made. Since aging of oil and paper shifts the equilibrium curves, this method overestimates moisture in paper. This especially applies if the acidity and / or oil conductivity are high. To overcome the influence of oil aging, water saturation in oil (%) instead of water content in oil (ppm) can be used [6]. An example for this can be seen in Figure 4.

Figure 3: Moisture equilibrium curves based on moisture content in oil in ppm (redrawn according to the original source [1]). Note that these diagrams usually overestimate moisture content in paper

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Figure 4: Moisture equilibrium diagram based on moisture saturation in oil [5]

2.2.4

Environmental Conditions In case the transformer was out of service, the ambient temperature helps to judge about the accuracy of the build-in temperature gauge. The relative humidity in the air and possible rain should be noted. Wet bushings increase the guard current and may lead to a negative dissipation factor. This is especially important, if an insulation system to ground is measured (CL or CH).

2.2.5

Other Information If available, take note of the setup of the main insulation (number and diameter of barriers and spacers). Since the position of the tap changer may influence the high frequency portion of the dissipation factor trace, note the tap changer position.

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3
3.1

Connecting DIRANA to the Transformer

Basic Measurement Circuit Guarding Principle
A dielectric response measurement is a three terminal measurement that includes the output voltage, the measured current and a guard. Generally, the output voltage should be connected to the bushing, which is mostly exposed to electromagnetic disturbances. Guarding is required to prevent disturbances due to unwanted current paths as caused by dirty bushings and unwanted electromagnetic fields. Figure 5 illustrates the principle of guarding. Without guarding, the ammeter measures the current through the insulation volume Ivol and the unwanted current over the insulation surface Isur. After applying a guard wire, the unwanted current Isur will bypass the ammeter and flow directly to the voltage source.

Figure 5: A dielectric response measurement without guarding (left) and with guarding (right)

Figure 6 illustrates the guarding principle for a power transformer. Here the currents over dirty bushings will not be measured by the instrument. Additionally, the transformer tank and the shielded measurement cables will prevent electromagnetic field coupling.

Figure 6: Guarding principle applied to a power transformer

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3.2

General Procedure
This section gives illustrated introductions how to connect the DIRANA to a power transformer. Please refer also to the user manual.
1.

In order to have the same reference potential, connect the grounding cable to the ground terminal on the rear panel of the DIRANA, and clamp its other end to the transformer tank.

2.

Next, connect all HV bushings to each other. Do the same for all LV bushings.

3.

After this, connect the cable for the voltage output (yellow) to the HV bushings and the cable for the input channel (red) to the LV bushings.

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4.

Connect the guard of both measurement cables to the transformer tank. Insure a good connection, avoid lacquered surfaces or corroded metal.

5.

Finally, plug the measurement cables into the DIRANA instrument.

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3.3
3.3.1

Wiring Diagram for Various Winding Set-Ups

Two Winding Transformer To determine the water content of the main insulation, the capacitance between HV and LV winding CHL provides the most valuable information. The wiring diagram is the same for three phase transformer as for single phase (Figure 7).

Figure 7: Typical measurement set-up for a two winding transformer

3.3.2

Three Winding Transformer For a three winding transformer with HV, MV and LV winding (or tertiary winding), both current measurement channels can be used simultaneously. Figure 8 depicts this connection. The measurement voltage is applied to the winding which is located in between the other two windings. Capacitance measurements help to identify the location of the windings.

Figure 8: Typical measurement set-up for a three winding transformer

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3.3.3

Autotransformer with tertiary winding For an autotransformer, the measurement voltage should be connected to the (internally connected) HV and LV winding and the input channel to the tertiary winding. In case, the tertiary winding cannot be reached, use the same connection as for the shunt reactor (see below).

Figure 9: Measurement set-up for an autotransformer with tertiary winding

3.3.4

Shunt Reactor and autotransformer without tertiary winding A shunt reactor contains only one single winding per phase, not two, as for normal power transformers. Instead of measuring the capacitance between windings CHL, the capacitance of the single winding to ground CH will be measured. Therefore, the guarding technique (voltage to HV, current from LV and guard to tank) cannot be used. Figure 10 displays the corresponding wiring diagram. In order to minimize disturbances, the voltage here is applied to the tank and the current is measured at the bushings. Depending upon the on-site conditions, the connection with fewer disturbances might also be to apply the voltage to the bushings and measure the current at the tank. Since the capacitance of the bushings to tank will not be guarded, the measured losses will be higher than the losses of the internal capacitance CH only. Depending on the condition of the bushing (surface wetness, dirt), this will result in an overestimation of moisture content. A typical overestimation compared to the "true" moisture content (m.c.) is 15 %; that means for example 2% m.c. + 15% = 2.3% m.c..

Figure 10: Measurement set-up for a shunt reactor or an autotransformer without tertiary winding

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3.4

Which HV Devices Can Be Left Connected?

It is the best practice to completely disconnect the transformer from the network. However, if a complete disconnection is impossible, it must be distinguished between CHL and CH/CL measurements. The capacitance between the windings CHL provides most valuable information for subsequent moisture determination. The high and low voltage winding capacitances to ground (CH and CL) are only useful if a measurement of CHL is impossible. Effect of Remaining HV Devices on Guarded CHL- Measurements While measuring the capacitance between windings CHL (voltage output to HV-winding, current input to LV or MV winding, guard to tank), the guarding technique prevents disturbing influences by stillconnected devices. However, the following requirements must be fulfilled: Disconnect voltage transformers and neutral point impedances as they cause a short circuit to ground. Avoid overloading of the instrument due to high currents, e.g. long cables. The still-connected devices should have low capacitances and losses compared to the transformer insulation; otherwise high guard currents may cause a negative dissipation factor (p. 20). Avoid electromagnetic field coupling since the still-connected devices might act as antennas.

If these requirements are fulfilled, the instrument can attain the same accuracy as that of a complete disconnection. Figure 11 illustrates the effect of a still connected HV device CExt which is connected to ground / guard.

Figure 11: Wiring diagram for a three winding transformer having an external device C Ext still connected

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Effect of Remaining HV Devices on Not Guarded CH/CL - Measurements For CH and CL measurements (voltage output to HV/LV-winding, current sense to tank, guard to LV or MV winding if available) the still-connected HV devices will increase the losses and thus lead to an overestimation of moisture. This is especially true for insulations having losses or impedances in the range of the transformer insulation

Figure 12: Wiring diagram for C H - measurement having an external device C Ext still connected

A measurement is of little value or impossible in case of Wet or dirty bushings Remaining cables with paper / oil insulation Remaining voltage transformers

Whereas the following devices will have a minor influence: Remaining short PE cables Remaining short bus bars with high resistance to ground Other devices having low losses compared to the transformer insulation

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Setting up the Software

1.

Connect DIRANA to one USB port of your laptop and start the DIRANA software. The status field in the lower right corner of the main window indicates that the connection is established.

2.

Press the button "Configure Measurement".

3.

By clicking the drop-down-list, choose the configuration that fits to your measurement specimen. You may also refer to the corresponding wiring diagram in order to connect DIRANA to the transformer.

4.

Click the settings tab and then enter 50 Hz as stop frequency. The section below will explain the required frequency ranges.

5.

After this, close the dialog field "Configure Measurement" by clicking on "OK".

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4.1

Required Stop Frequency for Subsequent Moisture Analysis

For moisture analysis, the very low frequencies of the dissipation factor curve are required. The dissipation factor plotted over frequency shows a typical s-shaped curve (Figure 13). With increasing moisture content, temperature, or aging, the curve shifts towards higher frequencies. Moisture particularly influences the low frequency part. A change in the high frequency part occurs only for high water content. The middle part of the curve with the steep gradient reflects oil conductivity. Insulation geometry determines the local maximum or "hump" on the left-hand side of the steep gradient. In order to determine the moisture content of the insulation, the measurement should provide the point of inflection on the left-hand side of the area dominated by insulation geometry. There, the properties of the cellulose insulation and its water content dominate.

Figure 13: Interpretation scheme of a dissipation factor curve providing discrimination between the influences of moisture, oil conductivity and insulation geometry

The position of the area influenced by moisture in cellulose and, consequently, the frequency range required for the specific insulation depends on the condition of the insulation. Dry or cold insulations require measuring down to very low frequencies, i.e. 100 Hz. For hot or highly conductive insulations, the stop frequency can be much higher; e.g. 0.1 Hz. As the condition of the transformer to be measured is unknown in most cases, set the stop frequency to the lowest value, i.e. 50 Hz. Then, observe the dissipation factor curve during the measurement and stop the measurement when the "hump" and the point of inflexion on its left-hand side appear. An intelligent curve recognition algorithm will also inform you if sufficient data for later moisture analysis have been recorded. Note that for elevated temperatures the "hump" will not be as distinct as in Figure 13. The dissipation factor trace does not show such a clear local maximum, but rather, a slight point of inflexion (Figure 26).

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5
5.1

Performing the Measurement

Pre Measurement Check
Often simple connection problems affect the measurement. To determine the capacitance, signal-tonoise ratio and noise current for ensuring a successful measurement press the button . The "PDC Monitor" can be used to estimate the signal-to-noise ratio at different polarization voltages. Before starting the polarization, the in coupling noise causes a current, which should be considerably lower (at least 1:10) than the current after the polarization is started (Figure 14). Recommendations are given in the information box, how to improve the measurement.

Figure 14: Pre measurement check with the PDC Monitor

The dependence of capacity, tangent delta, power factor or impedance depending on frequency and voltage can be checked using the "FDS Monitor" (Figure 15). The frequency and the voltage amplitude can be changed using the settings. After applying settings the capacity, tangent delta, power factor and/or impedance are displayed. They should be stable for a good measurement. Typical values for a transformer are a capacity of 2 25 nF and a tangent delta of 0.1 10%. If the values differ significantly, the measurement connections should be checked.

Figure 15: Pre measurement check using the FDS Monitor

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5.2

Development of the Dissipation Factor Curve

After setting up the software and checking the measurement cables, press the "Send Configuration to Device and Start Measurement" button. The dissipation factor curve will appear, starting at the high frequencies, and developing toward the low frequencies.

Figure 16: Dissipation factor curve starting at the high frequencies. The table at the top displays the values for the curser position, currently for power frequency.

Figure 17: Dissipation factor curve after transition from time to frequency domain at 0.1 Hz

Figure 18: Complete dissipation factor curve. Sufficient data for moisture analysis were already available at 0.5 mHz, corresponding to 40 minutes measurement time. The measurement could have been stopped at this point.

During the measurement, DIRANA can be disconnected from the computer and the measurement will continue offline. After reconnection to the computer, the measurement results are loaded into the DIRANA software and displayed in the graphical view pane. The measurement can be stopped when the "hump" and the point of inflexion on its left-hand side are measured; please refer to the explanations for Figure 13.

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5.3

Creating a Measurement Report

A measurement report is provided by the software, containing dissipation factor curve main measurement information relevant measurement data like e.g. the dissipation factor and capacity at power frequency results from moisture analysis (if done)

For creating a measurement report, select the measurements which should be included in the report using the check boxes. The "Print Preview" will now show the measurement report.

Use the "Save as/Export" button to save the measurement report as an Excel file or in PDF format.

5.4
5.4.1

Measurement Errors
Voltage Source Overload If the instrument is not able to reach the desired voltage, an error message will indicate the instrument overload. To solve the problem: Check whether the measurement setup has resulted in a short-circuit. If capacitive currents cause an overload (typical for long cables), decrease the output voltage or start the measurement at lower frequencies than 1000 Hz; i.e. at 100 Hz.

5.4.2

Input Overflow In case the software displays an input overflow error, check that the transformer and the DIRANA have the same reference potential. Usually this error appears when the transformer tank is on a floating potential. Connect the transformer tank to the ground terminal on the rear panel of the DIRANA (p. 10).

5.4.3

Negative Dissipation Factor The dissipation factor curve may turn negative at high frequencies, see Figure 19. Reasons for this problem may be at first a high guard impedance, at second a small measured capacitance in conjunction with a large guard capacitance, at third high guard currents (dirty bushings) and at fourth the inductivity of coils.

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Figure 19: Dielectric measurement with negative dissipation factor

To solve the problem: Connect all guards of measurement cables and if possible an additional wire from the triaxial connectors at the DIRANA front plate to the transformer tank. Try to decrease the guard currents (clean bushings, disconnect all devices which are possibly still connected to the transformer). Check ratio of capacitances (measure adjacent windings only). Ensure a proper connection of the DIRANA housing to the reference potential, usually the transformer tank.

5.4.4

Dip at the Transition from Time to Frequency Domain At the transition from time domain (PDC) to frequency domain (FDS) a dip may appear. Two reasons for this are possible: first a remaining polarization of the dielectric and second disturbances at in the time domain measurement.

Figure 20: Dip at the transition from frequency domain (FDS) to time domain (PDC)

Figure 20 illustrates a dip caused by a remaining polarization. For this transformer, the resistance of the dielectric was tested with 5 kV DC prior to the dielectric response measurement using DIRANA. The remaining polarization shifts the time domain current and, consequently, the dissipation factor as displayed in frequency domain.

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To solve this problem, Depolarize the dielectric by connecting the terminals of the HV and the LV bushings to each over and to the transformer tank. The depolarization time should be at least as long as the polarization time (duration, for which the voltage was applied), however this also depends on the applied voltage. After this, the DIRANA measurement can be repeated. Measure the dielectric response using DIRANA at first prior to the resistance test of the dielectric.

5.4.5

Disturbances during Time Domain Measurement Disturbances in the time domain current are transformed into the frequency domain and affect the results displayed in frequency domain (e.g. dissipation factor). Figure 21 shows disturbances on the time domain current for 600-1100 s measurement time as an example. They cause disturbances in dissipation factor for the low frequencies. Generally, the disturbances in time domain will appear in frequency domain depending on their frequency spectrum.

Figure 21: Time domain current with disturbances at around 1000 s (left) and its transformation in frequency domain with disturbances at the low frequencies (right). The reason for the disturbances was that guarding was not applicable for this CL-measurement.

To solve this problem, Use a guarded measurement set-up Apply all guards of the measurement cables Increase measurement voltage Try to minimize disturbances by e.g. using an electrostatic shield Perform the measurement in frequency domain only. In the dialog field "Configure Measurement", click on the "Show Advanced Settings" button. Set the "Type of Measurement Sequence" to "FDS only". Note that this increases the time duration for the measurement substantially.

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Interpreting the Dielectric Response in Frequency Domain

The dielectric response of oil-paper-insulated power transformers consists of three components: The dielectric response of the cellulose insulation (paper, pressboard), the dielectric response of the oil and the interfacial polarization effect. The superposition of these three components follows in the dielectric response. Moisture, temperature, insulation geometry, oil conductivity and conductive aging by-products influence the dielectric response. The discrimination of moisture from other effects is a key quality feature for the analysis of dielectric measurements.

6.1

Superposition of Dielectric Properties

Figure 22 displays the dissipation factor of only pressboard with a moisture content of 1, 2 and 3 % measured at 20C.

Figure 22: Dissipation factor of pressboard only having moisture content of 1, 2 and 3%

Figure 23: dissipation factor of oil having a conductivity of 1pS/m at 20C

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Figure 23 shows the dissipation factor of only oil with a conductivity of 1 pS/m measured at 20C. Note, that the losses are much higher as for pressboard and that the dissipation factor is just a line with a slope of 20 dB / decade. The dielectric properties of pressboard and oil are superimposed together with interfacial polarization. Interfacial polarization is typical for non-homogeneous dielectrics with different permittivity or conductivity. Here charge carriers such as ions accumulate at the interfaces, forming clouds with a dipole-like behavior. This kind of polarization is effective only somewhere below 10 Hz.

Figure 24: Dissipation factor of pressboard and oil together with the interfacial polarization effect (insulation geometry)

Figure 24 displays the dissipation factor of pressboard having 1 % moisture content and oil together with the interfacial polarization effect (insulation geometry). The insulation geometry (ratio of oil to pressboard) determines the interfacial polarization effect. The frequency range of 1000-10 Hz is dominated by the pressboard. Oil conductivity causes the steep slope at 1-0.01 Hz. The interfacial polarization (insulation geometry) determines the local maximum or "hump" at 0.003 Hz. Finally, the properties of pressboard appear again at the frequencies below 0.0005 Hz. The frequency limits correspond to Figure 24, but will vary in a wide range with moisture, oil conductivity, temperature and amount of conductive aging by-products. Moisture especially increases the losses in the low frequency range of the dielectric response of pressboard. Thus, data on the left-hand side of the area dominated by interfacial polarization (insulation geometry) are required for a reliable moisture determination. The point of inflexion on the left hand side of the area dominated by insulation geometry must be reached. Since pressboard also dominates the high frequency area above 10 Hz in Figure 24, it might appear that it is sufficient to measure this frequency range. However, moisture especially affects the low frequency branch of the dissipation factor curve. Figure 22 illustrates, that the high frequency part of the dissipation factor curve is very similar for different moisture contents, but the low frequency part differs. Consequently, if the measurement range is restricted to the high frequencies, the accuracy of water determination will be very low allowing only for a rough discrimination between wet and dry. If geometry data of the transformer are known, it is not necessary to measure down to these low frequencies. For example, for Figure 24, the measurement could be stopped at 0.001 Hz. Influence of Moisture and Temperature For increasing moisture content and oil conductivity, the curve shifts toward higher frequencies, but the shape remains similar. Figure 25 depicts the dissipation factor over frequency for 3 % moisture content and 10 pS/m oil conductivity. Figure 26 illustrates the influence of temperature on the same insulation system. At 50C the losses of pressboard along with the oil conductivity increase while the shape of the curve remains similar.

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Figure 25: Dissipation factor of an oil-paper-insulation with pressboard having 3 % moisture content and oil with a conductivity of 10 pS/m

Figure 26: Dissipation factor of an oil-paper-insulation with pressboard having 3 % moisture content and oil with a conductivity of 43 pS/m

For the measurement as shown in Figure 25, sufficient data for subsequent moisture analysis was available at 0.0021 Hz, corresponding to a measurement time of 14 minutes. At this frequency the only properties of pressboard appear, which is the prerequisite for accurate moisture analysis. Finally, for the elevated temperature of 50C of Figure 26, the measurement could have been stopped at 0.01 Hz.

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7
7.1

Moisture Analysis Using DIRANA

Principle of Moisture Analysis
Moisture determination is based upon a comparison of the transformer's dielectric response to a modeled dielectric response. A so-called XY model combines the dielectric response of pressboard as taken from a database with that of oil with regard to the insulation temperature. A fitting algorithm rearranges the modeled dielectric response and delivers moisture content and oil conductivity. The software will automatically compensate for the influence of conductive aging by-products. Figure 27 depicts the programming flowchart of the analysis algorithm.

Figure 27: Programming flowchart of the analysis algorithm

7.2

Step by Step Guide for Moisture Analysis

1.

Select the Measurement Select the desired measurement in the measurement collection and open the moisture assessment window by clicking on the Assessment button.

2.

Enter Variables For temperature compensation, type the insulation temperature into the corresponding field. For this measurement, it was 44C. The fields barriers (X - ratio of barriers to oil) and spacers (Y - ratio of spacers to oil) determine the insulation geometry. If data with a sufficient frequency depth were measured (3-5 points on the left hand side of the hump), the software would automatically calculate these values. Therefore, no numbers have to be entered.

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Figure 28: Initial moisture assessment screen

The oil conductivity will also be calculated automatically. If the oil conductivity is known, it can be entered taking into account the measurement temperature. Using the "Convert" button, the conductivity can be recalculated to the insulation temperature. All parameters with a check mark will be calculated automatically by the DIRANA software. The only parameter that is absolutely necessary is the insulation temperature.
3.

Automatic Assessment Press the "Start Assessment" button. The fitting algorithm arranges the parameters of the model (barriers X, spacers Y, oil conductivity, moisture content) in order to obtain the best fit between the model curve and the measurement curve. The intelligent curve recognition algorithm informs about the data quality, i.e. if sufficient data are recorded for a high quality moisture analysis. Figure 29 displays the result of the automatic moisture assessment. In this example, it gives the result of 1.8 % moisture content, 9.1 pS/m oil conductivity.

Figure 29: Assessment screen after automatic curve fitting

If more information is needed, press the "Advanced..." button. Beside moisture content and oil conductivity the values for insulation geometry, moisture saturation and bubbling inception temperature can be found here (Figure 30). Also the measurement results and the fitted model curve are shown here.

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Figure 30: Advanced assessment screen after automatic curve fitting

4.

Optimizing the Moisture Analysis by Hand As the low frequencies on the left-hand side of the "hump" reflect moisture, a good fitting of this area should be observed. In this respect, Figure 30 leaves some room for improvements. Since insulation geometry causes the hump, decreasing the amount of barriers to 12 % gives a better fitting of this area. Consequently, the moisture content must be adjusted to 1.6 %. The automatic assessment gave a different result than the optimization by hand because the lower limit for barriers was set to 20 %. By setting the limit for barriers to 10 % in the "Advanced Limits for Automatic Assessment" tab, the automatic assessment comes to the same result as the optimization by hand.

Figure 31: Advanced assessment screen after optimization by hand

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7.3

Analysis of a Measurement with Limited Frequency Range

The moisture analysis reaches a high accuracy, if data of the low frequencies dominated by pressboard are available (Figure 24). Figure 32 depicts an example with a limited frequency range where the measurement was stopped too early; the low frequency properties of pressboard are invisible.

Figure 32: Dissipation factor curve without information on the left hand side of the "hump"

To analyze such a measurement, some estimation of the geometric conditions will help. Set the geometry condition to fixed values of X = 30 % and Y = 20 %. The amount of barriers to oil X typically ranges from 15 to 55 % and of spacers Y from 13 to 24 %. Usually, older transformers contain a higher ratio of pressboard to oil (Figure 33). To estimate the ratio of solid to liquid insulation, one may also look at the high frequencies of 100-1000 Hz. After this, perform the automatic assessment and, if necessary, some optimization by hand as described above.

Figure 33: Ratio of barriers to oil X for various transformers depending on year of manufacture

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8.1

Assessing the Analysis Results

Assessment According to IEC 60422
The DIRANA software assesses the moisture concentration based on the classifications given in the IEC 60422 "Mineral insulating oils in electrical equipment Supervision and maintenance guidance". The categories are:

IEC 60422 provides categories for moisture contamination of power transformers based on moisture saturation. Moisture saturation can be converted into moisture content using sorption isotherms (Figure 34). The IEC rates moisture saturations of more than 6 % as "moderately wet", which is equivalent to a moisture content of approximately 2.2 %. In this area the water molecules become more and more active, increasing the dangerous effects of water. At this level, maintenance actions such as drying should be considered, taking into account the importance and future operation of the transformer. Figure 34 shows the relationship between moisture content and moisture saturation and illustrates the categories of IEC 60422 in order to assess the results analyzed by DIRANA.

Figure 34: Moisture sorption isotherm for a cellulose material relating moisture saturation to moisture content with categories according to IEC 60422

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8.2

Accuracy of Analysis Results

The analysis software will reliably calculate moisture content if the following conditions are fulfilled: Materials consist of oil and oil-impregnated paper/pressboard. An analysis of transformers without oil is possible as well; however the cellulose materials must be oil-impregnated. Measurement data on the left-hand side of the "hump" are available (Figure 24). This makes the analysis independent from the geometric setup and the oil conductivity of the specific insulation. The software will calculate the insulation geometry; the user doesn't have to enter the data. No "direct" oil connection between the windings, at least one winding must be fully covered with paper/pressboard. This condition is surely fulfilled at voltages above 20 kV. In the other case the large influence of the oil gap might hide the properties of pressboard and paper. If this occurs, the dissipation factor curve will not have the specific shape of Figure 24.

The following conditions influence the accuracy of moisture analysis: Very high temperature: Cellulose materials have different temperature dependent behavior. The temperature compensation of the software will perfectly compensate the influence of temperature if the materials inside the transformer are the same as in the data base. As this is rarely the case, an increase in temperature of 30 K can lead to an underestimation of moisture content of 0.5 %. For example, the moisture analysis indicated 2.5 % moisture content for a transformer measured at 50C. Here the "true" moisture content may range from 2.5-3 % depending on the temperature characteristic of the material used. Low temperature: Temperatures below 10C involve the problems of a reliable temperature measurement and of the temperature dependent behavior of the cellulose materials used in the particular transformer. High oil conductivity: An oil conductivity of more than 20 pS/m at ambient temperature points on conductive aging by-products. These by-products increase the dielectric losses in a similar way as water and may lead to an overestimation of moisture. Without compensation the overestimation can be up to 1.5 % moisture content. DIRANA compensates for this influence, however an overestimation of moisture of up to 0.3 % may occur.

8.3

Comparison to Other Moisture Measurement Techniques

Oil Sampling with Equilibrium Diagrams By applying the water content in oil (ppm) and the sampling temperature (C) to a moisture equilibrium diagram only a very rough estimation of moisture content in paper can be made. Since aging of oil and paper shifts the equilibrium curves, this method essentially overestimates moisture content in paper. This especially applies if the acidity and / or oil conductivity are high. Dielectric Response Methods For the recovery voltage method RVM, the CIGR task force 15.01.09 stated: "For the RVM technique, the old interpretation based only on simple relationship between the dominant time constant of the polarization spectrum and the water content in cellulose is not correct" [7]. The newer methods of polarization and depolarization currents (PDC) and frequency domain spectroscopy (FDS) are based on a comparison of the measured dielectric response to a modeled dielectric response. As the data base of the modeled dielectric response was scaled with different Karl Fischer titration techniques, the moisture contents as analyzed by these methods may differ as well.

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Paper Samples and Karl Fischer Titration Taking paper samples offers a good opportunity to validate dielectric response methods. On the other hand, three restrictions apply: Sampling procedure During paper sampling and transportation to the laboratory, moisture from the atmosphere easily increases the moisture content of the sample. A few minutes of exposure to air makes the test useless. Therefore the sampling conditions may lead to an overestimation of moisture content. Comparability of Karl Fischer titration Karl Fischer titration suffers from a poor comparability between different instruments and laboratories [8]. The laboratory measuring the water content of paper samples may use a different instrument and procedure as the one used to scale the DIRANA data base. Consequently, the indicated moisture content might differ to a certain extend. Sample position The temperature distribution inside a power transformer causes a moisture distribution. The cold insulation structures (construction elements) accumulate water and the hot structures (winding paper) are drier. DIRANA will indicate an average moisture content of the barriers and spacers operated at oil temperature and the winding paper.

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Contact Technical Support

support@omicron.at Phone: +43 5523-507-333 Fax: +43 5523-507-7333 techsupport@omicronusa.com Phone: +1 713 830-4660 or 1 800 OMICRON Fax: +1 713 830+4661 support@asia.omicron.at Phone: +852 2634 0377 Fax: +852 2634 0390

In case of further questions, please contact OMICRON's technical support: Europe/Middle East/Africa

North and South America

Asia/Pacific

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10

Literature
[1] M. Koch, M. Krger: The Negative Dissipation Factor and The Interpretation of the Dielectric Response of Power Transformers" Proceedings of the XVIth International Symposium on High Voltage Engineering, ISH, Cape Town, South Africa, 2009 M. Koch, M. Krger, S. Tenbohlen: " Comparing Various Moisture Determination Methods for Power Transformers" CIGR Southern Africa Regional Conference, 2009 M. Koch, M. Krger: A Fast and Reliable Dielectric Diagnostic Method to Determine Moisture in Power Transformers" Proceedings of the International Conference on Condition Monitoring and Diagnosis CMD, Peking, China, 2008 T. V. Oommen: Moisture Equilibrium Charts for Transformer Insulation Drying Practice IEEE Transaction on Power Apparatus and Systems, Vol. PAS-103, No. 10, Oct. 1984, pp. 3063-3067. M. Koch, S. Tenbohlen, D. Giselbrecht, C. Homagk, T. Leibfried: Onsite, Online and Post Mortem Insulation Diagnostics at Power Transformers, Cigr SC A2 & D1 Colloquium, Brugge, Belgium 2007 M. Koch, M. Krger: Moisture Determination by Improved On-Site Diagnostics, TechCon Asia Pacific, Sydney 2008 S. M. Gubanski et al.: Dielectric Response Methods for Diagnostics of Power Transformers CIGR Task Force 15.01.09, Technical Brochure 254, Paris, 2004 M. Koch, S. Tenbohlen, J. Blennow, I. Hoehlein: Reliability and Improvements of Water Titration by the Karl Fischer Technique Proceedings of the XVth International Symposium on High Voltage Engineering, ISH, Ljubljana, Slovenia, 2007

[2]

[3]

[4]

[5]

[6] [7]

[8]

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OMICRON is an international company serving the electrical power industry with innovative testing and diagnostic solutions. The application of OMICRON products provides users with the highest level of confidence in the condition assessment of primary and secondary equipment on their systems. Services offered in the area of consulting, commissioning, testing, diagnosis, and training make the product range complete. Customers in more than 140 countries rely on the company's ability to supply leading edge technology of excellent quality. Broad application knowledge and extraordinary customer support provided by offices in North America, Europe, South and East Asia, and the Middle East, together with a worldwide network of distributors and representatives, make the company a market leader in its sector.

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