Transformer Inrush Current
In this report, we will discuss the magnetising inrush current in power transformers. Magnetising
inrush current occurs due to abrupt changes in the magnetising voltage. This phenomenon can be
triggered by several factors, including:
• Energising an unloaded transformer
• The occurrence of an external fault
• Voltage recovery after clearing an external fault
• Out-of-phase synchronising of connected generators
The magnitude of inrush current can be as high as that of a short-circuit current. Therefore,
a detailed analysis of magnetising inrush current under various conditions is essential for
setting the appropriate protective systems for transformers.
A common question arises: Why does a power transformer draw inrush current when
energized in an unloaded condition?
When a power transformer is energized with its secondary circuit open, it behaves like an
inductance. Under normal operating conditions, the magnetic flux produced in the core is in
quadrature with the applied voltage. This means that the flux lags behind the applied voltage by
90 degrees.
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The flux wave in a power transformer reaches its maximum value after one-quarter cycle (or π/2
radians), coinciding with the maximum value of the voltage wave.
Phase Relationship: At the instant when the voltage is zero, the steady-state value of the flux
would ideally be at its negative maximum. However, this situation is not practically feasible when
the transformer is first energised.
Key Points
1. Initial Conditions: Before the supply is switched on, there is no magnetic flux linked to the core
of the transformer. Therefore, at the moment of energisation, the flux cannot instantly achieve its
maximum value.
2. Transient Response: The steady-state flux will only be established after a finite amount of time,
which depends on how quickly the circuit can absorb energy.
3. Starting Point: Consequently, when the transformer is energised, the flux in the core begins from
zero, gradually increasing as the transformer takes in energy from the supply.
As we know that,
e = dφ/dt where φ is the Flux in the core
Therefore assuming e = ESinωt,
Now suppose, Transformer is switched on when Voltage is zero. Therefore Flux will also start from
zero. Therefore, total Flux at the end of first half cycle of voltage wave will be:
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Where Øm = Maximum flux in the core in steady state or normal operating condition.
Therefore, the flux in the core of Transformer will be double the maximum value of flux in steady
state condition.
When the transformer core is saturated just above the maximum steady-state value of flux (Φm),
the following occurs upon energizing the primary:
1. Flux Surge: Upon switching on the power supply, the flux can jump to double the steady-state
maximum value (2Φm).
2. Saturation Effects: After reaching this peak, as the core enters saturation, the current required to
maintain the additional flux (2Φm - Φm = Φm) becomes significantly high.
3. High Inrush Current: Consequently, the transformer primary will draw a very high current from
the source, known as magnetizing inrush current. This inrush current is characterized by its
magnitude and transient nature.
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It's important to note that the waveform of transformer inrush current is asymmetric, primarily due
to the presence of a significant second harmonic component.
1. Decay Over Time: The magnetizing inrush current decays over time, typically reaching zero
within a few milliseconds after energization.
2. Magnitude: The inrush current can be as much as 10 times higher than the normal rated current
of the transformer.
3. Transient Nature: Despite its high magnitude, the inrush current is generally not sufficient to
cause permanent faults in the transformer because it lasts only a brief period.
4. Protection Challenges: However, the presence of this high inrush current poses challenges for
transformer protection schemes. The transient can inadvertently trigger protective devices, leading
to the unnecessary tripping of the primary circuit breaker.
Is there no way to minimize Magnetizing Inrush Current of Transformer?
Point on Wave Switch is used to minimize the Magnetizing Inrush Current of Transformer.
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