Tap-Changing Transformer Control for No-Load Loss Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Transformers in electric grids experience significant no-load power losses, especially in renewable energy production facilities and redundant systems, which are costly and inefficient, as they generate magnetic flux even when not in use, limiting their performance when in load conditions.
Innovation Solution
A transformer assembly with a control unit that determines the operational condition of the transformer and commands the tap changer to set the maximum number of turns for the windings when in a no-load condition, reducing magnetic flux and power losses, while maintaining optimal voltage regulation during load conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If the magnetic core is designed to generate lower magnetic flux, then no-load power losses are reduced, but transformer performance in load condition is unacceptably limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the number of winding turns variable through a tap changer mechanism. The control unit dynamically adjusts the tap position based on operational conditions: in no-load condition, it selects taps that reduce the number of turns to lower magnetic flux and minimize no-load power losses; in load condition, it selects taps that maintain optimal transformer performance. This dynamic adaptation resolves the contradiction between reducing energy loss and maintaining power capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the electrical parameter of winding turns through the tap changer. By varying the number of turns enchained with the magnetic core, the system alters the magnetic flux generation. In no-load condition, fewer turns are selected to reduce magnetic flux and associated power losses; in load condition, the appropriate number of turns is selected to maintain transformer performance, thus resolving the contradiction through parameter adjustment.
2Loss of energy
If the transformer operates in no-load condition frequently, then energy dissipation costs increase, but the transformer must remain ready for load conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback through the control unit that continuously monitors the operational condition of the transformer (no-load or load). Based on this feedback, the control unit automatically adjusts the tap changer position. When no-load condition is detected, the system switches to a configuration that minimizes energy dissipation costs. When load condition is detected, it switches to maintain reliability and readiness. This feedback mechanism resolves the contradiction by automatically adapting to operational requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The transformer assembly performs self-service by automatically adjusting its own configuration through the control unit and tap changer without external intervention. The system monitors its own operational state and self-adjusts the winding turns to optimize performance for the current condition, thereby reducing energy costs during no-load periods while maintaining reliability when needed.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution reduces no-load power losses by up to 65% compared to traditional systems, lowering operational costs and allowing for more efficient energy transfer between grid sections, with estimated savings of thousands of euros per year for medium-size power transformers.
Implementation Method 1
due to the induced magnetic flux generated by the primary windings
Implementation Method 2
a tap changer operatively associated with said electric transformer to vary the number of turns enchained with said magnetic core for said first windings or for said second windings
Data Source
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AI summary
A transformer assembly (1) for electric grids comprising: - an electric transformer (2) comprising a magnetic core (20), a first side (2A) including one or more first windings (21) enchained with said magnetic core and adapted to be electrically connected to a first grid section (50) and a second side (2B) including one or more second windings (22) enchained with said magnetic core and adapted to be electrically connected to a second grid section (60); - a tap changer (3) operatively associated with said electric transformer (2) to vary the number of turns enchained with said magnetic core (20) for said first windings (21) or for said second windings (22). The transformer assembly comprises a control unit (6) operatively coupled with said tap changer (3) to control the operation of said tap changer, said control unit being configured to: - acquire input data (IN) indicative of an electrical connectivity condition of said second grid section (60) with said second windings (22); - basing on said input signals (IN), determine whether said transformer (2) is in a load condition or in a no-load condition; - if said transformer (2) is in a no-load condition, command said tap changer to set a maximum available number of turns for said first windings (21) or for said second windings (22).