Transformers are regularly sampled and subjected to several routine tests including short-circuit test (SC) in order to guarantee the quality of the devices. In France, three-phase SC test consists of 3 impulses on each phase which account for 9 impulses in total. After each impulse, impedance variation (in %) is measured. This value plays a crucial part in certifying transformers in general. It should be mentioned that after SC, several tests will be conducted in order to analyze dielectric and magnetic properties of the transformer.
The prototypes received from different manufacturers were all made from SA1-based amorphous cores. The SC tests were carried out at EDF R&D. The impedance variation after SC are given below in Tab.1. It is observed the impedance values defer from one manufacturer to another, independently of transformer power. According to ERDF requirements, out of 8 prototypes received, 4 are cleared after SC tests. As previously mentioned, the shape of the windings in amorphous products is rectangular. In that configuration, electrodynamic stresses are not uniformly distributed, unlike conventional circular coils. In Fig. 5, a drawing of a rectangular winding before and after SC is presented, which shows an important deformation of the coil due to its irregular shape. LV winding adopts a flattened profile and the HV tends to take a circular design where stress is equally shared.
Both amorphous transformers from M3 passed the SC test but failed in partial discharge measurement. In fact, dielectric withstand before and after SC is absolutely needed to ensure a smooth running of the transformer in the distribution network. At last, only 2 (400 kVA from M2 and 250 kVA from M2) out of 8 devices are accepted.
After SC tests, prototypes were opened up for a deeper inspection of their active parts. During examination of some of them, small particles of amorphous ribbons were discovered at the bottom of the tank. These metal pieces are counterproductive during partial discharge measurement, as it was found in M2 transformers.
In fact, during SC, extreme electrodynamic forces cause the windings to deform and this shape deformity creates a lot of shear stress on amorphous cores which lead to breakup of some ribbons. The active part of an amorphous transformer should be strong enough to counterattack these stresses.