SPICE model for effective and accurate time domain simulation of power transformers

Abstract

The paper proposes an effective time-domain modeling and simulation strategy of power transformers, using the SPICE circuit simulator. The nonlinear phenomena of the iron core are carefully considered, including saturation, static hysteresis and eddy currents. The principle of magnetic circuit modeling is based on analog lumped equivalent circuits and the SPICE implementation uses the principle of modularity. Such a module includes a transformer winding and its core leg together with the ferromagnetic phenomena. The method allows simulating normal operation modes, as well as critical transients and faulty conditions, the simulation result containing all electromagnetic quantities as time-domain functions. The method is remarkable through its extremely short computation time and reasonable accuracy, it being conceived firstly as useful tool for design purposes.