What are the main reasons that can lead to the burning of transformers?

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●Overloading:

Overloading is one of the common causes of transformer burnout. Overloading refers to the condition where the transformer is subjected to current exceeding its rated capacity, resulting in excessive heat generation in the windings and insulation materials. When a transformer operates under prolonged overload conditions, the temperature may rise beyond its design limits, causing the insulation materials to gradually fail and ultimately leading to burnout. Overloading can also causethermal expansion of the windings, leading tomechanical stress and damage to the insulation materials, further increasing the risk of burnout.

●Short Circuit:

A short circuit refers to an accidental electrical contact within the transformer’s windings or between the windings and the ground, causing current to flow through an unintended path. Short circuits can causea sudden and dramatic increase in current, far exceeding the transformer's designed capacity. The surge in current results in significantly increased resistive losses in the windings, generating heat that can cause rapid degradation of the insulation materials, leading to transformer burnout. Additionally, short circuit faults can cause structural damage to the transformer, such as melting of the windings and deformation of the core.

●Insulation Failure:

Insulation failures occur due toaging,damage, ordefects in the insulation materials, often caused by electrical stress, mechanical stress, or environmental factors. Insulation failure can lead to electrical breakdowns between windings or between the windings and the ground, resulting in partial or complete discharge phenomena. As the insulation materials fail, short-circuit currents may flow through the damaged areas, causing transformer burnout. Causes of insulation failure includeexcessive operating temperatures, humid environments, and poor-quality insulation materials.

●Overvoltage:

Overvoltage occurs when the voltage applied to the transformer exceeds its rated voltage range. Overvoltage conditions subject the insulation materials to excessive electric field strength, leading to their degradation and failure. Insulation materials may experience breakdown under overvoltage conditions, causing arcing or discharge that can lead to transformer burnout. Overvoltage can be caused by voltage fluctuations in the power grid, improper operation of equipment, or system faults.

●Poor Cooling:

Transformers require an effective cooling system to maintain their normal operating temperature. Cooling systems include cooling oil (for oil-immersed transformers) or air cooling systems (for dry-type transformers). If the cooling system fails or is inadequate, the internal temperature of the transformer can rise rapidly, accelerating the aging of the insulation materials and increasing heat losses, potentially leading to burnout. Common cooling problems include insufficient cooling oil flow, cooling fan failures, or blocked radiators.

●Manufacturing Defects:

Manufacturing defects are potential causes of transformer burnout. These defects include improper material selection, process errors, and poor assembly. Such issues can result in inadequate structural strength, poor insulation, or bad electrical contacts, leading to failures during normal operation. Manufacturing defects may cause abnormal heat buildup, current imbalances, and other problems during operation, ultimately resulting in transformer burnout.

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