Transformer faults and protection systems

Although safety of property and persons, respect for the environment and improvement of operating conditions have always formed part of the aims of power network operators, these matters are gaining in importance daily as the Century draws to a close, given that the basic functions have been acquired. As the ultimate element in the electricity supply process chain, the power distribution transformer is one of the most widespread items of equipment and, being located nearest to the user, it is therefore one of the most sensitive. Consequently, it should not come as a surprise that this element forms the subject of a permanent research effort. Following a brief overview of the state-of-the-art, this paper sets out to provide an exhaustive analysis of faults (those of electrical origin) which can occur in a transformer, and to offer relevant solutions