Introduction:

There are various Test required on Transformer to conform

performance of Transformer.
Mainly two types of transformer are done by manufacturer before
dispatching the transformer mainly (1) Type test of transformer and (2)
Routine test.
In addition some other tests are also carried out by the consumer at site
before commissioning and also periodically in regular & emergency
basis throughout its life.
Transformer Testing mainly classified in
Transformer Tests done by Manufacturer
(A) Routine Tests
(B)Type Tests
(C) Special Tests
Transformer Tests done at Site
(D) Pre Commissioning Tests
(E) Periodic/Condition Monitoring Tests
(F) Emergency Tests

(A) Routine tests:

A Routine test of transformer is mainly for confirming operational

performance of individual unit in a production lot. Routine tests are
carried out on every unit manufactured.
All transformers are subjected to the following Routine tests:
Insulation resistance Test.
Winding resistance Test.
Turns Ration / Voltage ratio Test
Polarity / Vector group Test.
No-load losses and current Test.
Short-circuit impedance and load loss Test.
Continuity Test
Magnetizing Current Test
Magnetic Balance Test
High Voltage Test.
Dielectric tests
Separate source AC voltage.
Induced overvoltage.
Lightning impulse tests.
Test on On-load tap changers, where appropriate.

(B) Type tests

Type tests are tests made on a transformer which is representative of

other transformers to demonstrate that they comply with specified
requirements not covered by routine tests:
Temperature rise test (IEC 60076-2).
Dielectric type tests (IEC 60076-3).

(C) Special tests

Special tests are tests, other than routine or type tests, agreed between
manufacturer and purchaser.
Dielectric special tests.
Zero-sequence impedance on three-phase transformers.
Short-circuit test.
Harmonics on the no-load current.
Power taken by fan and oil-pump motors.
Determination of sound levels.
Determination of capacitances between windings and earth, and
between windings.
Determination of transient voltage transfer between windings.
Tests intended to be repeated in the field to confirm no damage during
shipment, for example frequency response analysis (FRA).

(D) Pre commissioning Tests

The Test performed before commissioning the transformer at site is

called pre commissioning test of transformer. These tests are done to
assess the condition of transformer after installation and compare the
test results of all the low voltage tests with the factory test reports.
All transformers are subjected to the following Pre commissioning
tests:
IR value of transformer and cables
Winding Resistance
Transformer Turns Ratio
Polarity Test
Magnetizing Current
Vector Group
Magnetic Balance
Bushing & Winding Tan Delta (HV )
Protective relay testing
Transformer oil testing
Hipot test

(A) Routine tests of Transformer

(1) Insulation Resistance Test:
Test Purpose:

Insulation resistance test of transformer is essential to ensure the

healthiness of overall insulation of an electrical power transformer.

Test Instruments:

For LT System: Use 500V or 1000V Megger.

For MV / HV System: Use 2500V or 5000V Megger.

Test Procedure:

First disconnect all the line and neutral terminals of the transformer.
Megger leads to be connected to LV and HV bushing studs to measure
Insulation Resistance (IR) value in between the LV and HV windings.
Megger leads to be connected to HV bushing studs and transformer
tank earth point to measure Insulation Resistance IR value in between
the HV windings and earth.
Megger leads to be connected to LV bushing studs and transformer
tank earth point to measure Insulation Resistance IR value in between
the LV windings and earth.
NB: It is unnecessary to perform insulation resistance test of
transformer per phase wise in three phase transformer. IR values are
taken between the windings collectively as because all the windings on
HV side are internally connected together to form either star or delta
and also all the windings on LV side are internally connected together
to form either star or delta.
Measurements are to be taken as follows:

Type of Transformer
Auto Transformer
Two Winding Transformer

Testing-1
HV-LV to
LV
HV to LV

Testing-2

Testing-3

HV-IV to E

LV to E

LV to E
HV to E & LV to
Three Winding Transformers
HV to LV
LV to LV
E
Oil temperature should be noted at the time of insulation resistance test
of transformer. Since the IR value of transformer insulating oil may
vary with temperature.
IR values to be recorded at intervals of 15 seconds, 1 minute and 10
minutes.
With the duration of application of voltage, IR value increases. The
increase in IR is an indication of dryness of insulation.
Absorption Coefficient = 1 minute value/ 15 second value.
Polarization Index = 10 minutes value / 1 minute value
Tests can detect:

Weakness of Insulation.

HV to E