A review of transformer aging and control strategies

Abstract

This paper reviews factors that influence the aging of distribution transformers, including root causes of transformer failure. Existing and proposed load control methods are then reviewed. A distribution model is introduced to help evaluate potential control methods. Coping with transformer aging is an important challenge in power system. The nature of transformer loads is changing with the integration of distributed energy resources (DERs) and electric vehicles (EVs). Distribution transformers themselves are minimally controllable, but smart meters provide excellent, new insights into electrical loads, which insights can be used to understand and mitigate transformer aging.