Dynamic transformers rating for expansion of expansion of existing wind farms

Sammanfattning: Distribution system operators face the challenge to connect users rapidly to the grid and the opportunity to reduce costs for new connections. A method to enhance network operation and planning is dynamic transformer rating (DTR), which considers load and temperature variations to increase the rating of the transformer while maintaining in safe operation. This project investigates DTR application to an existing population of transformers connected to a wind park and proposes a method for adding new turbines to the grid using installed transformers. Five transformer locations and nine units belonging to E.ON AB are used to find the potential of DTR for network expansion. A weather analysis reveals that simultaneous high wind speeds and high temperatures seldom occur. An aging estimation based on the IEC 60076-7 standard shows that the transformers for wind power applications are underused. Considering the transformer thermal model, a sensitivity analysis shows that the parameters that mostly affect the aging rate are the moisture content, the hot spot factor, and the top-oil temperature rise. The maximum load to assure aging below 50 years is calculated for each transformer for different maximum hot-spot temperature levels showing that increasing the maximum allowed temperature reduces curtailment and increases aging. A single node analysis depicts the optimal expansion of wind power from a generator perspective, and a network analysis introduces further restrictions to the network. As a result, the optimal increase factor is around 30 to 50 % and is larger for higher hot-spot temperature limits. Accurate weather measurements and transformer parameters are necessary to make a proper estimation of transformer aging to unlock transformer potential. To use fiber optic temperature sensors in new transformers and on-site temperature measurements can increase the rating of the transformer. A maximum allowed temperature of 110◦C is conservative and limits the potential of the transformer for wind power applications. Finally, society benefits from DTR in wind power applications because there is a more efficient use of resources and additional renewable energy can be introduced to the network.