206 Manual on Transformers

8.3 Winding Resistance Measurement

Transformer winding resistances are measured at site in order to check for abnormalities due
to loose connections, broken strands of conductor, high contact resistance in tap changers,
high voltage leads and bushings.

The resistance is measured by two methods :

(a) Voltmeter Ammeter method

(b) Bridge method

(c) Digital meters

The detailed test procedure of above methods is same as factory testing and is covered in
clause 4.1 of this section. Precautions shall be taken during field testing as given below.

The test shall be conducted at all taps of the transformer winding and the measured value
shall be converted to 75 0 C.

The acceptance criterion is usually agreement to within 5% of resistance measurements made

separately on different phases, under field condition. But, for large transformers it is
recommended to compare the resistance values with original data measured in the factory
and in case of large variation, connection tightness to be checked.

The current used for these measurements should not exceed 15% of the rated current in order
to avoid heating the winding thereby changing its resistance. However, the current should not
be too small, which may not be sufficient to avoid inductive effect, due to core magnetization

The winding resistance shall preferably be measured when the difference in the top and
bottom temperature of the oil (temperature of oil in steady-state condition) is equal to or less
than 5°C.

Winding resistance measurement shall be done only after measurement of magnetic balance
and magnetization current (excitation current). The polarity of the core magnetization shall
be kept constant during all resistance measurement. A reversal in magnetization of the core
can change the time constant and result in erroneous readings.