Hybrid Heuristic and Pattern Search Optimization Algorithm for Design Optimization of Energy Efficient Distribution Transformer

Abstract

Transformers are widely used in the electric power grid. The design of power and distribution transformers is a tedious and time-consuming task that requires solving numerous equations considering technical constraints. Most conventional methods get stuck in a local optimum point. In this paper, a hybrid algorithm is proposed to solve the transformer design problem with higher closeness to the global optimum solution. The algorithm is a combination of the novel Pelican Optimization Algorithm (POA) and Pattern Search Method (PSM). The proposed POA-PSM algorithm is applied for the design optimization of 630 kVA and 1000 kVA oil-immersed eco-design distribution transformers and the results are compared to already-designed transformers with the same power ratings.