ABB's business unit transformers achieved another milestone on successful completion of the dynamic short-circuit tests on a 315 mega volt ampere (MVA), 765 kilovolt (kV) single phase generator step up transformer (GSU), manufactured at its factory in Vadodara, India. A total of seven transformers will be supplied to NTPC Ltd. India for its 2x800MW Gadarwara Super Thermal Power station in Madhya Pradesh in India.
The dynamic short circuit test is the most difficult test a transformer can be put through, where it is subject to higher fault levels than it would face in the power network. Passing this test proves the transformer's robustness to withstand rigours in the field, validating design excellence and flawless production.
ABB transformers are designed to ensure maximum reliability and availability. The tests verify the mechanical and electrical stability to withstand high forces. ABB conducted the test at KEMA, an independent laboratory in the Netherlands, according to International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) standards.
ABB has short circuit tested over 170 power transformers of various ratings and demonstrated best in class short circuit performance, with a failure rate that is less than half of the market average. To date, this is the highest voltage generator transformer ever to have undergone and passed such rigorous testing.
The large generator transformers are based on ABB's TrafoStar™ design concept, which is a unified engineering technology platform. TrafoStar has been implemented at the transformer factory in Vadodara, India, for more than a decade. It ensures products with the same high standard of quality from across ABB's manufacturing facilities world over and enables a successful track record of short circuit testing.
