Analyzing the influence of ZnO nanoparticles on transformer oil using dissolved gas analysis

Abstract

Transformer oil-based nanofluids have attracted considerable attention in recent years due to their improved thermal and dielectric properties, which are essential for the efficient and reliable operation of power transformers. The addition of nanoparticles, such as Al₂O₃, SiO₂, TiO₂, and ZnO, plays a pivotal role in enhancing the heat dissipation and insulation characteristics of transformer oil. Despite this, research on the use of ZnO nanoparticles in transformer oil remains limited. This study focuses on the preparation and evaluation of transformer oil-based nanofluids with ZnO nanoparticles at varying weight percentages (0.01 %, 0.05 %, 0.075 %, and 0.1 %). Dissolved Gas Analysis (DGA) which identifies the types and concentrations of dissolved gas in transformer oil, can reveal details on fault indicators in power transformers. The diagnostic methods applied included the Doernenburg Ratio, Roger's Ratio, and the IEC method. In this study, we used the interpretation of the IEEE std 2008-C57.104 and IEC 2015-60599. The results of the DGA test are used to assess the conditions and identify potential disturbances in the power transformer. The outcome of the fault indication is also influenced by the different gas analysis techniques employed.The findings indicate that incorporating ZnO nanoparticles significantly alters the dissolved gas patterns, with each diagnostic method offering unique perspectives on fault conditions. Additionally, the results suggest that specific weight percentages of ZnO nanoparticles can enhance the performance of transformer oil, contributing to more reliable transformer operation.