ABSTRACT
This chapter summarizes challenges in design of transformers in competitive market conditions. Advanced computational techniques are being used to accurately predict performance parameters of transformers. Competitive market conditions, improvements in computational facilities, and rapid advances in instrumentation are the main enabling factors for all-round improvements in transformer engineering. The design of a transformer mainly constitutes the analysis of the following parts: magnetic circuit, windings, insulation, cooling system, and tank/structural parts. The transformer is a complex three-dimensional (3-D) structure having materials with nonlinear characteristics and anisotropic properties. The magnetic circuit of a transformer, which is often subjected to overexcitation conditions, deserves special design considerations. The calculation of temperature distribution in the transformer core is a complex 3-D problem with nonuniform heat generation. The hot-spot temperatures measured at the locations should be reasonably close to the calculated values.
