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4.1 Explain the purpose of a step-up transformer - NSC Electrical Technology Power Systems - Question 4 - 2020 - Paper 1

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4.1 Explain the purpose of a step-up transformer. 4.2 List THREE factors that may contribute to excessive heating in a three-phase oil-immersed transformer. 4.3 Na... show full transcript

Worked Solution & Example Answer:4.1 Explain the purpose of a step-up transformer - NSC Electrical Technology Power Systems - Question 4 - 2020 - Paper 1

Step 1

Explain the purpose of a step-up transformer.

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Answer

A step-up transformer is designed to increase the voltage from the primary to the secondary winding, while decreasing the current proportionally. This is particularly useful in electrical transmission systems where high voltage is needed to reduce power losses over long distances.

Step 2

List THREE factors that may contribute to excessive heating in a three-phase oil-immersed transformer.

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Answer

  1. High load current: An increase in load can lead to higher current flow, causing increased heat generation.
  2. Poor ventilation: Insufficient airflow around the transformer can trap heat, elevating temperature.
  3. Insulation breakdown: Over time, insulation materials can degrade, leading to short circuits and increased heating.

Step 3

Name TWO cooling methods used for oil-immersed transformers.

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Answer

  1. Oil Natural Air Natural (ONAN): The heat is dissipated through the natural circulation of oil and air.
  2. Oil Forced Air Forced (OFAF): This method employs a fan to circulate air and oil to enhance cooling efficiency.

Step 4

Explain the consequences of transformer cooling failure.

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Answer

Cooling failure can lead to overheating of the transformer, which may cause insulation damage, reduced efficiency, and ultimately failure of the transformer. This could lead to costly repairs, loss of service, and potential hazards such as fire.

Step 5

Explain what effect an increase in the load will have on the primary current of a transformer.

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Answer

An increase in load will cause the primary current to rise, as the transformer will draw more current from the supply to meet the increased demand. This is due to the conservation of power, where the apparent power on the primary side is equal to that on the secondary side.

Step 6

The primary and secondary windings of a three-phase transformer can be connected in different ways to form a single unit. Name TWO ways.

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Answer

  1. Star (Y) connection: This connection ties one terminal of each winding together, forming a neutral point.
  2. Delta (Δ) connection: In this setup, each winding is connected end-to-end in a closed loop.

Step 7

Name TWO electrical protective devices used in three-phase transformers.

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Answer

  1. Circuit breakers: Protect against overcurrent conditions.
  2. Fuses: Provide overcurrent protection by melting and disconnecting the circuit.

Step 8

Illustrate, by means of a labelled diagram, the construction of a core-type three-phase transformer. Also show the magnetic columns.

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Answer

The diagram should depict the core construction with three limbs where the windings are placed. Label the primary and secondary windings, and show the magnetic flux paths in the core.

Step 9

Name ONE safety measure to consider when working with an energised three-phase transformer.

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Answer

Ensure the supply is switched off before wiring the transformer to avoid electric shock and accidents.

Step 10

Efficiency of the transformer if it operates at a power factor of 0,85 lagging.

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Answer

Given: Pout=200,000imes0.85=170,000 WP_{out} = 200,000 imes 0.85 = 170,000 \text{ W} Calculate the input power using: Pin=171,800 WP_{in} = 171,800 \text{ W}
Efficiency η=PoutPin×100=170,000171,800×10098.95%\eta = \frac{P_{out}}{P_{in}} \times 100 = \frac{170,000}{171,800} \times 100 \approx 98.95\%.

Step 11

Turns ratio.

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Answer

Use the formula: TR=Vl(3)Vl(1)=380V11kV=50:1TR = \frac{V_{l(3)}}{V_{l(1)}} = \frac{380\,V}{11\,kV} = 50:1.

Step 12

Secondary line voltage.

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Answer

The secondary line voltage can be calculated from the turns ratio and primary line voltage, confirmed through the transformer equations derived from the basic transformer principles.

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