Study on different techniques of partial discharge (PD) detection in power transformers winding: simulation between paper and EPOXY resin using UHF method

Increasing load on power transformers causes the stress on power transformers. Due to continuously stress on power transformers weakens the insulation of winding and producing arcing called partial discharge (PD). Partial discharges seriously affect the reliability of power transformers and lead to destroy transformer. Insulating materials play a major role in longevity of power transformer. The objective of this paper is to contrast the different techniques used for detection and localization of PD at the initial stage in power transformer winding and to investigate which is the best insulating materials (paper and epoxy resins) to be used to prolong the power transformers’ life expectancy. From literature, it is found that information regarding detection of PD in power transformer is not enough to perform necessary action because the location of PD is still unknown. So localization of PD is necessary to recommend corrective actions. In order to overcome this problem, different techniques such as electrical method, acoustic method, UHF detection method and optical methods are used to locate and detect the PD. UHF detection method has a many advantages compared to other PD detection methods such as immunity against background noise and other unwanted signals that can affect the measurement, reduce the design complexity, reduce the design cost and provides the accurate and precise location of PD source. From the simulation, it is found that the paper is most recommended to be used as insulating material in power transformers compare to epoxy resins due to paper’s electrical properties.