What information is typically provided on a transformer nameplate?
1 Answer
A transformer nameplate typically provides important information about the transformer's specifications and characteristics. This information is crucial for proper installation, maintenance, and operation of the transformer. The specific details on a transformer nameplate may vary depending on the manufacturer and the type of transformer, but here are some common pieces of information you can expect to find:
Transformer Identification:
Manufacturer's name or logo.
Transformer model or serial number.
Manufacturing date or year.
Voltage Ratings:
Primary (input) voltage rating: This indicates the voltage at which the transformer is designed to receive power from the source.
Secondary (output) voltage rating: This indicates the voltage the transformer will provide at its output.
If the transformer is multi-tapped, the different available voltage taps may be listed.
Power Ratings:
Apparent power (in kVA or MVA): The total power capacity of the transformer, which is the product of the primary voltage and rated current.
Rated current (in amperes): The maximum current the transformer can handle without exceeding its thermal limits.
Frequency:
The frequency of the AC power system for which the transformer is designed (typically 50 Hz or 60 Hz).
Cooling System:
Cooling type: Whether the transformer uses air cooling, liquid cooling, or a combination of both.
Impedance:
Percentage impedance: This value indicates the internal impedance of the transformer, which affects its ability to withstand short-circuit currents.
Insulation Class:
Insulation material and class, indicating the maximum temperature the insulation can withstand.
Winding Configuration:
Information about the winding connections, such as delta, star, or zigzag.
Tap Changer Information:
If the transformer has an on-load tap changer (OLTC), information about the tap changing range and control mechanisms.
Efficiency and Losses:
Information about the transformer's efficiency and losses, often given as a percentage at full load.
Weight and Dimensions:
Physical dimensions of the transformer, including height, width, and depth.
Weight of the transformer.
Standards and Certifications:
Applicable standards and certifications that the transformer complies with (e.g., ANSI, IEC, IEEE).
Diagram:
A connection diagram that shows the configuration of the primary and secondary windings, taps, and grounding points.
Warnings and Safety Instructions:
Safety warnings, operating instructions, and maintenance recommendations.
It's important to refer to the transformer's nameplate when installing, operating, or maintaining the transformer to ensure it is used within its designed parameters and to ensure the safety of personnel and equipment.
Transformer Identification:
Manufacturer's name or logo.
Transformer model or serial number.
Manufacturing date or year.
Voltage Ratings:
Primary (input) voltage rating: This indicates the voltage at which the transformer is designed to receive power from the source.
Secondary (output) voltage rating: This indicates the voltage the transformer will provide at its output.
If the transformer is multi-tapped, the different available voltage taps may be listed.
Power Ratings:
Apparent power (in kVA or MVA): The total power capacity of the transformer, which is the product of the primary voltage and rated current.
Rated current (in amperes): The maximum current the transformer can handle without exceeding its thermal limits.
Frequency:
The frequency of the AC power system for which the transformer is designed (typically 50 Hz or 60 Hz).
Cooling System:
Cooling type: Whether the transformer uses air cooling, liquid cooling, or a combination of both.
Impedance:
Percentage impedance: This value indicates the internal impedance of the transformer, which affects its ability to withstand short-circuit currents.
Insulation Class:
Insulation material and class, indicating the maximum temperature the insulation can withstand.
Winding Configuration:
Information about the winding connections, such as delta, star, or zigzag.
Tap Changer Information:
If the transformer has an on-load tap changer (OLTC), information about the tap changing range and control mechanisms.
Efficiency and Losses:
Information about the transformer's efficiency and losses, often given as a percentage at full load.
Weight and Dimensions:
Physical dimensions of the transformer, including height, width, and depth.
Weight of the transformer.
Standards and Certifications:
Applicable standards and certifications that the transformer complies with (e.g., ANSI, IEC, IEEE).
Diagram:
A connection diagram that shows the configuration of the primary and secondary windings, taps, and grounding points.
Warnings and Safety Instructions:
Safety warnings, operating instructions, and maintenance recommendations.
It's important to refer to the transformer's nameplate when installing, operating, or maintaining the transformer to ensure it is used within its designed parameters and to ensure the safety of personnel and equipment.