Grounding transformer
   HOME

TheInfoList



OR:

A grounding transformer or earthing transformer is a type of auxiliary
transformer A transformer is a passive component that transfers electrical energy from one electrical circuit to another circuit, or multiple circuits. A varying current in any coil of the transformer produces a varying magnetic flux in the transformer' ...
used in
three-phase electric power Three-phase electric power (abbreviated 3φ) is a common type of alternating current used in electricity generation, transmission, and distribution. It is a type of polyphase system employing three wires (or four including an optional neutral ...
systems to provide a ground path to either an ungrounded wye or a delta-connected system. Grounding transformers are part of an
earthing system An earthing system (UK and IEC) or grounding system (US) connects specific parts of an electric power system with the ground, typically the Earth's conductive surface, for safety and functional purposes. The choice of earthing system can affec ...
of the network. They let
three-phase Three-phase electric power (abbreviated 3φ) is a common type of alternating current used in electricity generation, Electric power transmission, transmission, and Electric power distribution, distribution. It is a type of polyphase system empl ...
( delta connected) systems accommodate phase-to-neutral loads by providing a return path for current to a neutral. Grounding transformers are typically used to: * Provide a relatively low-impedance path to ground, thereby maintaining the system neutral at or near ground potential. * Limit the magnitude of transient overvoltages when restriking ground faults occur. * Provide a source of ground fault current during line-to-ground faults. * Permit the connection of phase-to-neutral loads when desired. Grounding transformers most commonly incorporate a single winding transformer with a
zigzag A zigzag is a pattern made up of small corners at variable angles, though constant within the zigzag, tracing a path between two parallel lines; it can be described as both jagged and fairly regular. In geometry, this pattern is described as a ...
winding configuration, but may also be created with a wye-delta winding transformer. Neutral grounding transformers are very common on generators in power plants and wind farms. Neutral grounding transformers are sometimes applied on high-voltage (sub-transmission) systems, such as at 33 kV, where the circuit would otherwise not have a ground; for example, if a system is fed by a delta-connected transformer. The grounding point of the transformer may be connected through a resistor or arc suppression coil to limit the fault current on the system in the event of a line-to-ground fault. Martin Heathcote (ed.), ''J & P Transformer Book'', Newnes, 2011 pp. 421-422


References

Electric transformers Power engineering {{Electric-power-stub