Transformer Iron Core Temperature Field Calculation Based on Finite Element Analysis

Temperature anomaly is a common fault in power transformers; therefore, achieving a fast and accurate calculation of the transformer temperature field is of great significance. This paper primarily introduces the methodology and self-programmed calculation for realizing the temperature field analysis of a single-phase, two-limb transformer iron core. First, the finite element equation for the three-dimensional steady-state temperature field is derived to provide the basis for the self-programmed Finite Element Method (FEM) calculation. Subsequently, the Finite Element Method (FEM) calculation of the single-phase, two-limb transformer iron core temperature field was implemented using the self-programmed code, and the results were compared with the COMSOL calculation results. The comparison showed that the error at each node was within 0.5 K. Compared to COMSOL, the computation time was reduced by 46.89%, and the memory usage was reduced by 82.37%. Finally, a temperature rise test was designed for the single-phase, two-limb transformer. Compared with the experimental data, the maximum error is within 3 K, which further confirms the accuracy of the program.