Performance of single wire earth return transformers with amorphous alloy core in a rural electric energy distribution system

Abstract

In this paper are presented some considerations about the performance of single wire earth return amorphous alloy core transformers in comparison with conventional silicon steel sheets cores transformers used in rural electric energy distribution network. It has been recognized that amorphous metal core transformers improve electrical power distribution efficiency by reducing transformer core losses. This reduction is due to some electromagnetic properties of the amorphous alloys such as: high magnetic permeability, high resistivity, and low coercivity. Experimental results obtained with some single-phase, 60 Hz, 5 kVA amorphous core transformers installed in a rural area electric distribution system in Northern Brazil have been confirming their superior performance in comparison to identical nominal rated transformers built with conventional silicon steel cores, particularly with regard to the excitation power and to the no-load losses.

Investigation on Vibration of Amorphous Alloy Transformer Core

“…AMDTs are prepared by using amorphous alloy strips as iron core materials through a special process. After secondary annealing in a vertical magnetic field, the core loss value is the lowest value of the metal core, and its saturation induction B s is slightly higher than 1.5 T. This material has a lower core loss [1]. The no-load loss and no-load current generated during operation are 25% and 20% of those of silicon steel sheet transformers, respectively [2,3].…”

Potential for Increased Rural Electrification Rate in Sub-Saharan Africa using SWER Power Distribution Networks

“…It was developed and first implemented in New Zealand around 1925 (Mandeno, 1947), then it spread to Australia (Nobbs, 2012). Further, it has been implemented in Sri Lanka (Mahanthege, 2015), Brazil (Luciano et al, 2012), Namibia (Himmel and Huysen, 2002), South Africa (Kessides et al, 2007), Tunisia (Cecelski et al, 2005), Ghana (Iliceto et al, 1989) and Uganda (Bakkabulindi et al, 2012;Bakkabulindi et al, 2009;Da Silva et al, 2001). Realizing the potential of SWER, some researchers suggested it as a feasible electrification for a settlement in Rwanda (Solange, 2017); Tanzania (Irechukwu, 2020;Irechukwu and Mushi, 2021;Meijer, 1995); a minigrid extension in Uganda (Bakkabulindi, 2012); and a future rural electrification plan for Nigeria (FMPWH, 2016).…”