THE EFFECT OF A HIGH-INTENSITY ELECTRIC FIELD ON THE AGING OF CELLULOSE INSULATION OF A POWER TRANSFORMER IN THE FEMM SOFTWARE PACKAGE

Predicting the aging of cellulose insulation of power transformers is an important condition for improving the reliability of power systems. The paper analyses the factors of insulation degradation with a focus on the influence of the electric field. To study its distribution, a mathematical model of the transformer was created in the FEMM environment. This made it possible to visualise the spatial characteristics of the field and assess its interaction with insulating materials. The modelling confirmed the key role of the electric field in the aging process of cellulose. The importance of mechanical loads as an additional degradation factor was also emphasised. Further development of multiphysics models will help to improve the accuracy of predictions, optimise operation and extend the life of transformers. Tools such as FEMM open up new opportunities for comprehensive ageing analysis in power equipment.