Using power state estimation to calculate hotspot temperature of distribution transformers

A significant challenge the utilities face when determining the life remaining of distribution transformer insulation is that they often do not record the required load or temperature data. This is detrimental because insulation life remaining algorithms cannot therefore be applied. In power flow studies the state estimation methods are being applied to determine the flow of power around a network. In this article a study is presented where state estimation techniques were applied to a network to estimate the load of one distribution transformer on the network. Consequently, the insulation temperature and life remaining could be estimated. The results were very promising and further measurements are planned to verify the practically of this method.