A Combined Computational Fluid Dynamics and Thermal–Hydraulic Modeling Approach for Improving the Thermal Performance of Corrugated Tank Transformers: A Comparative Study

In this study, we present a complete analysis of the thermal behavior of an oil-filled distribution transformer using two different approaches: numerically, by applying computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations; and analytically, by using thermal–hydraulic modelling (THM). The THM method become...

Full description

Saved in:
Bibliographic Details
Published in:Energies (Basel) 2024-04, Vol.17 (8), p.1802
Main Authors: Wang, Chunping, Sun, Qingjun, Al-Abadi, Ali, Wu, Wei
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Accuracy
Case studies
Comparative analysis
computational fluid dynamics
Computer software industry
Cooling
corrugated walls
Design
distribution transformer
Electric transformers
Fluid dynamics
Geometry
Heat conductivity
Heat transfer
Hydraulics
Methods
Simulation
Simulation methods
thermal hydraulic modelling
thermal performance
Turbulence models
Citations: Items that this one cites
Online Access:Get full text
Tags: Add Tag
No Tags, Be the first to tag this record!
Description
Summary:In this study, we present a complete analysis of the thermal behavior of an oil-filled distribution transformer using two different approaches: numerically, by applying computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations; and analytically, by using thermal–hydraulic modelling (THM). The THM method becomes challenging when the corrugated transformer tank wall structures are complex, and therefore CFD simulations are required to provide in-depth details of the winding oil thermal–hydraulic behavior and to generate parameters for improving the THM calculation. The numerical and analytical thermal performance results were then compared with heat-run measurements of a case study transformer and the accuracy of both approaches on different thermal performance parameters was validated. This study has certain reference value for improving the thermal performance and operation efficiency of distribution transformers, and eventually aims to provide engineers with an effective tool to design the most efficient and reliable distribution transformers with corrugated tank walls for various applications.
ISSN:1996-1073
1996-1073
DOI:10.3390/en17081802