THE IMPACT OF LOADING, LOAD IMBALANCE, AND AMBIENT TEMPERATURE ON THE DETERMINATION OF DISTRIBUTION TRANSFORMER AGING

Abstrak

In the operation of distribution transformers, it is expected that they can operate continuously and at maximum capacity. However, this can impact the lifespan of the transformer, as it will gradually decrease over time. One of the key factors contributing to the reduced lifespan of transformers is loading, along with other factors such as load imbalance and ambient temperature. Based on these factors, the author conducted a study on the impact of loading, load imbalance, and ambient temperature on the determination of the aging rate of distribution transformers. The research method involves collecting load current and ambient temperature data from four transformers to calculate the aging rate and remaining life of the transformers using IEEE and IEC standards. The study reveals that the loading factor is the most significant contributor to the aging of distribution transformers. The calculation results indicate that the lowest estimated aging rate occurs in Transformer 1, at 0.0052 hours per day (24 hours), resulting in the highest estimated remaining life of the transformer at 11.997 years, with a life difference of 0.003 years compared to the normal remaining life of 12 years, based on a standard life expectancy of 20 years. Conversely, the highest estimated aging rate occurs in Transformer 2, at 0.276 hours per day (24 hours), resulting in the lowest estimated remaining life of the transformer at 14.8275 years, with a life difference of 0.1725 years compared to the normal remaining life of 15 years, based on the standard life expectancy of 20 years. The impact of loading is more dominant than load imbalance and ambient temperature in accelerating transformer aging.