Grounding Transformer

Basics & Specification

 Grounding Transformer
Grounding transformer are basically used in delta connected systems where
Neutral is not available for grounding. It is mostly two types
1 A typical two winding Star –delta transformer
2. Zig zag Connection transformer ( Mostly used )
 Grounding Transformer
Grounding of a system through a star delta transformer

Grounding of a system through a Zigzag transformer

 Zigzag Transformer

System phasor Zigzag Connection

A

A B C
B
C

Equivalent phasor Phasor’s Addition

 ZIG ZAG Transformer : Normal condition

In a normal balanced system all the current phasors in the primary cancel each
other so equivalent current taken by the transformer is zero. But in unbalanced
system or faulted condition a zero sequence current flows .
 ZIG ZAG Transformer : Neutral Current

The Short time rating of the grounding transformer is however determined

by current it is required to carry for short time ( typically 30 second ). It is
normal practice to select the zero sequence impedance such that as in
faulted condition the rated full load current ( of the transformer whose
winding is connected to Zig-Zag ) flows through neutral.

The only criteria is while the flow of neutral current the copper
temperature must not exceed 250 degree celcius .
 ZIG ZAG Transformer : Short time Duty
According to IEEE 32 (1972) relation of short time duty and
continuous duty is given below
ZIG ZAG Transformer : Why ?
ZIG ZAG Transformer : Specification
 ZIG ZAG Transformer : Calculation Example

Solution :

(As base voltage is 34.5 KV so 1 pu )

ZIG ZAG Transformer : Calculation Example
 ZIG ZAG Transformer : Secondary

It is common practice to provide an auxillary winding usually star connected

415 V winding ( ZNyn11 or similar ) to provide three phase supply to
substation and the typical rating of the winding is 200 kVA with 4 to 5%
impedance with the main Zig-Zag winding

ZIG ZAG LV
1 2 3