Reliability Assessment of Distribution Transformers Considering Load Harmonics

The progressive application of non-linear loads in distribution systems (DS) increases current harmonics flow in DS's apparatuses, especially distribution transformers (DTs). Since DTs' operating temperature rises due to the harmonics flow, their loading should be reduced such that the hot spot temperature (HST) is preserved under its permissible value. This means that DTs' available capacity is influenced by load harmonic content. In this paper, a novel formulation for DTs' failure rate in the presence of harmonics is presented as a function of load harmonic contents. Using the suggested equivalent failure rate, DTs' available capacity in harmonic polluted DS is mathematically formulated. Additionally, the presence of the harmonic increases the HST, leading to DTs' aging acceleration. Therefore, the impact of harmonic components on DTs' aging is arithmetically modeled. To evaluate the efficacy of the suggested reliability model, it is applied to three distinct DTs having respectively industrial, commercial, and residential loads. The obtained results indicate that the available capacity of DTs with the same rated capacity would be different regarding to their load harmonic contents. On the other hand, it is comprehended from the achieved results that the aging acceleration factor (Faa) of the DTs increases owing to their load harmonic contents.