10 C.F.R. Subpart K—Distribution Transformers


Title 10 - Energy


Title 10: Energy
PART 431—ENERGY EFFICIENCY PROGRAM FOR CERTAIN COMMERCIAL AND INDUSTRIAL EQUIPMENT

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Subpart K—Distribution Transformers

Source:  70 FR 60416, Oct. 18, 2005, unless otherwise noted.

§ 431.191   Purpose and scope.

This subpart contains energy conservation requirements for distribution transformers, pursuant to Parts B and C of Title III of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act, as amended, 42 U.S.C. 6291–6317.

[71 FR 24995, Apr. 27, 2006]

§ 431.192   Definitions.

The following definitions apply for purposes of this subpart:

Autotransformer means a transformer that:

(1) Has one physical winding that consists of a series winding part and a common winding part;

(2) Has no isolation between its primary and secondary circuits; and

(3) During step-down operation, has a primary voltage that is equal to the total of the series and common winding voltages, and a secondary voltage that is equal to the common winding voltage.

Basic model means a group of models of distribution transformers manufactured by a single manufacturer, that have the same insulation type (i.e., liquid-immersed or dry-type), have the same number of phases (i.e., single or three), have the same standard kVA rating, and do not have any differentiating electrical, physical or functional features that affect energy consumption. Differences in voltage and differences in basic impulse insulation level (BIL) rating are examples of differentiating electrical features that affect energy consumption.

Distribution transformer means a transformer that—

(1) Has an input voltage of 34.5 kV or less;

(2) Has an output voltage of 600 V or less;

(3) Is rated for operation at a frequency of 60 Hz; and

(4) Has a capacity of 10 kVA to 2500 kVA for liquid-immersed units and 15 kVA to 2500 kVA for dry-type units; but

(5) The term “distribution transformer” does not include a transformer that is an—

(i) Autotransformer;

(ii) Drive (isolation) transformer;

(iii) Grounding transformer;

(iv) Machine-tool (control) transformer;

(v) Nonventilated transformer;

(vi) Rectifier transformer;

(vii) Regulating transformer;

(viii) Sealed transformer;

(ix) Special-impedance transformer;

(x) Testing transformer;

(xi) Transformer with tap range of 20 percent or more;

(xii) Uninterruptible power supply transformer; or

(xiii) Welding transformer.

Drive (isolation) transformer means a transformer that:

(1) Isolates an electric motor from the line;

(2) Accommodates the added loads of drive-created harmonics; and

(3) Is designed to withstand the additional mechanical stresses resulting from an alternating current adjustable frequency motor drive or a direct current motor drive.

Efficiency means the ratio of the useful power output to the total power input.

Excitation current or no-load current means the current that flows in any winding used to excite the transformer when all other windings are open-circuited.

Grounding transformer means a three-phase transformer intended primarily to provide a neutral point for system-grounding purposes, either by means of:

(1) A grounded wye primary winding and a delta secondary winding; or

(2) A transformer with its primary winding in a zig-zag winding arrangement, and with no secondary winding.

Liquid-immersed distribution transformer means a distribution transformer in which the core and coil assembly is immersed in an insulating liquid.

Load loss means, for a distribution transformer, those losses incident to a specified load carried by the transformer, including losses in the windings as well as stray losses in the conducting parts of the transformer.

Low-voltage dry-type distribution transformer means a distribution transformer that—

(1) Has an input voltage of 600 volts or less;

(2) Is air-cooled; and

(3) Does not use oil as a coolant.

Machine-tool (control) transformer means a transformer that is equipped with a fuse or other over-current protection device, and is generally used for the operation of a solenoid, contactor, relay, portable tool, or localized lighting.

Medium-voltage dry-type distribution transformer means a distribution transformer in which the core and coil assembly is immersed in a gaseous or dry-compound insulating medium, and which has a rated primary voltage between 601 V and 34.5 kV.

No-load loss means those losses that are incident to the excitation of the transformer.

Nonventilated transformer means a transformer constructed so as to prevent external air circulation through the coils of the transformer while operating at zero gauge pressure.

Phase angle means the angle between two phasors, where the two phasors represent progressions of periodic waves of either:

(1) Two voltages;

(2) Two currents; or

(3) A voltage and a current of an alternating current circuit.

Phase angle correction means the adjustment (correction) of measurement data to negate the effects of phase angle error.

Phase angle error means incorrect displacement of the phase angle, introduced by the components of the test equipment.

Rectifier transformer means a transformer that operates at the fundamental frequency of an alternating-current system and that is designed to have one or more output windings connected to a rectifier.

Reference temperature means 20 °C for no-load loss, 55 °C for load loss of liquid-immersed distribution transformers at 50 percent load, and 75 °C for load loss of both low-voltage and medium-voltage dry-type distribution transformers, at 35 percent load and 50 percent load, respectively. It is the temperature at which the transformer losses must be determined, and to which such losses must be corrected if testing is done at a different point. (These temperatures are specified in the test method in Appendix A to this part.)

Regulating transformer means a transformer that varies the voltage, the phase angle, or both voltage and phase angle, of an output circuit and compensates for fluctuation of load and input voltage, phase angle or both voltage and phase angle.

Sealed transformer means a transformer designed to remain hermetically sealed under specified conditions of temperature and pressure.

Special-impedance transformer means any transformer built to operate at an impedance outside of the normal impedance range for that transformer's kVA rating. The normal impedance range for each kVA rating for liquid-immersed and dry-type transformers is shown in Tables 1 and 2, respectively.

                        Table 1_Normal Impedance Ranges for Liquid-Immersed Transformers----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------                            Single-phase transformers                                Three-phase transformers----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------                               kVA                                Impedance  (%)        kVA       Impedance  (%)----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------10..............................................................         1.0-4.5              15         1.0-4.515..............................................................         1.0-4.5              30         1.0-4.525..............................................................         1.0-4.5              45         1.0-4.537.5............................................................         1.0-4.5              75         1.0-5.050..............................................................         1.5-4.5           112.5         1.2-6.075..............................................................         1.5-4.5             150         1.2-6.0100.............................................................         1.5-4.5             225         1.2-6.0167.............................................................         1.5-4.5             300         1.2-6.0250.............................................................         1.5-6.0             500         1.5-7.0333.............................................................         1.5-6.0             750         5.0-7.5500.............................................................         1.5-7.0            1000         5.0-7.5667.............................................................         5.0-7.5            1500         5.0-7.5833.............................................................         5.0-7.5            2000         5.0-7.5                                                                                            2500         5.0-7.5----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                            Table 2_Normal Impedance Ranges for Dry-Type Transformers----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------                            Single-phase transformers                                Three-phase transformers----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------                               kVA                                Impedance  (%)        kVA       Impedance  (%)----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------15..............................................................         1.5-6.0              15         1.5-6.025..............................................................         1.5-6.0              30         1.5-6.037.5............................................................         1.5-6.0              45         1.5-6.050..............................................................         1.5-6.0              75         1.5-6.075..............................................................         2.0-7.0           112.5         1.5-6.0100.............................................................         2.0-7.0             150         1.5-6.0167.............................................................         2.5-8.0             225         3.0-7.0250.............................................................         3.5-8.0             300         3.0-7.0333.............................................................         3.5-8.0             500         4.5-8.0500.............................................................         3.5-8.0             750         5.0-8.0667.............................................................         5.0-8.0            1000         5.0-8.0833.............................................................         5.0-8.0            1500         5.0-8.0                                                                                            2000         5.0-8.0                                                                                            2500         5.0-8.0----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Temperature correction means the mathematical correction(s) of measurement data, obtained when a transformer is tested at a temperature that is different from the reference temperature, to the value(s) that would have been obtained if the transformer had been tested at the reference temperature.

Test current means the current of the electrical power supplied to the transformer under test.

Test frequency means the frequency of the electrical power supplied to the transformer under test.

Test voltage means the voltage of the electrical power supplied to the transformer under test.

Testing transformer means a transformer used in a circuit to produce a specific voltage or current for the purpose of testing electrical equipment.

Total loss means the sum of the no-load loss and the load loss for a transformer.

Transformer means a device consisting of 2 or more coils of insulated wire that transfers alternating current by electromagnetic induction from 1 coil to another to change the original voltage or current value.

Transformer with tap range of 20 percent or more means a transformer with multiple voltage taps, the highest of which equals at least 20 percent more than the lowest, computed based on the sum of the deviations of the voltages of these taps from the transformer's nominal voltage.

Uninterruptible power supply transformer means a transformer that supplies power to an uninterruptible power system, which in turn supplies power to loads that are sensitive to power failure, power sags, over voltage, switching transients, line noise, and other power quality factors.

Waveform correction means the adjustment(s) (mathematical correction(s)) of measurement data obtained with a test voltage that is non-sinusoidal, to a value(s) that would have been obtained with a sinusoidal voltage.

Welding transformer means a transformer designed for use in arc welding equipment or resistance welding equipment.

[70 FR 60416, Oct. 18, 2005, as amended at 71 FR 24995, Apr. 27, 2006]

Test Procedures

§ 431.193   Test procedures for measuring energy consumption of distribution transformers.

The test procedures for measuring the energy efficiency of distribution transformers for purposes of EPCA are specified in Appendix A to this subpart.

[71 FR 24997, Apr. 27, 2006]

Energy Conservation Standards

§ 431.196   Energy conservation standards and their effective dates.

(a) Low Voltage Dry-Type Distribution Transformers. The efficiency of a low voltage dry-type distribution transformer manufactured on or after January 1, 2007, shall be no less than the following:

 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------                                  Single phase                                              Three phase----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------                                                                  Efficiency (%)                  Efficiency (%)                               kVA                                      \1\             kVA             \1\----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------15..............................................................            97.7              15            97.025..............................................................            98.0              30            97.537.5............................................................            98.2              45            97.750..............................................................            98.3              75            98.075..............................................................            98.5           112.5            98.2100.............................................................            98.6             150            98.3167.............................................................            98.7             225            98.5250.............................................................            98.8             300            98.6333.............................................................            98.9             500            98.7                                                                                             750            98.8                                                                                            1000            98.9----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------\1\ Efficiencies are determined at the following reference conditions: (1) for no-load losses, at the  temperature of 20 °C, and (2) for load-losses, at the temperature of 75 °C and 35 percent of nameplate  load.(Source: Table 4-2 of National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) Standard TP-1-2002, ``Guide for  Determining Energy Efficiency for Distribution Transformers.'')

(b) Liquid-Immersed Distribution Transformers. [Reserved]

(c) Medium Voltage Dry-Type Distribution Transformers. [Reserved]

[70 FR 60416, Oct. 18, 2005, as amended at 71 FR 24997, Apr. 27, 2006]

Compliance and Enforcement

Source:  71 FR 24997, Apr. 27, 2006, unless otherwise noted.

§ 431.197   Manufacturer's determination of efficiency for distribution transformers.

When a manufacturer or other party (both of which this section refers to as a “manufacturer”) determines the efficiency of a distribution transformer in order to comply with an obligation imposed on it by or pursuant to Part C of Title III of EPCA, 42 U.S.C. 6311–6317, this section applies. This section does not apply to enforcement testing conducted pursuant to §431.198 of this part.

(a) Methods used to determine efficiency—(1) General requirements. A manufacturer must determine the efficiency of each basic model of distribution transformer either by testing, in accordance with §431.193 of this part and paragraphs (b)(2) and (b)(3) of this section, or by application of an alternative efficiency determination method (AEDM) that meets the requirements of paragraphs (a)(2) and (a)(3) of this section; provided, however, that a manufacturer may use an AEDM to determine the efficiency of one or more of its untested basic models only if it determines the efficiency of at least five of its other basic models (selected in accordance with paragraph (b)(1) of this section) through actual testing. For each basic model of distribution transformer that has a configuration of windings which allows for more than one nominal rated voltage, the manufacturer must determine the basic model's efficiency either at the voltage at which the highest losses occur or at each voltage at which the transformer is rated to operate.

(2) Alternative efficiency determination method. A manufacturer may apply an AEDM to a basic model pursuant to paragraph (a)(1) of this section only if:

(i) The AEDM has been derived from a mathematical model that represents the electrical characteristics of that basic model;

(ii) The AEDM is based on engineering and statistical analysis, computer simulation or modeling, or other analytic evaluation of performance data; and

(iii) The manufacturer has substantiated the AEDM, in accordance with paragraph (a)(3) of this section, by applying it to, and testing, at least five other basic models of the same type, i.e., low-voltage dry-type distribution transformers, medium-voltage dry-type distribution transformers, or liquid-immersed distribution transformers.

(3) Substantiation of an alternative efficiency determination method. Before using an AEDM, the manufacturer must substantiate the AEDM's accuracy and reliability as follows:

(i) Apply the AEDM to at least five of the manufacturer's basic models that have been selected for testing in accordance with paragraph (b)(1) of this section, and calculate the power loss for each of these basic models;

(ii) Test at least five units of each of these basic models in accordance with the applicable test procedure and paragraph (b)(2) of this section, and determine the power loss for each of these basic models;

(iii) The predicted total power loss for each of these basic models, calculated by applying the AEDM pursuant to paragraph (a)(3)(i) of this section, must be within plus or minus five percent of the mean total power loss determined from the testing of that basic model pursuant to paragraph (a)(3)(ii) of this section; and

(iv) Calculate for each of these basic models the percentage that its power loss calculated pursuant to paragraph (a)(3)(i) is of its power loss determined from testing pursuant to paragraph (a)(3)(ii), compute the average of these percentages, and that calculated average power loss, expressed as a percentage of the average power loss determined from testing, must be no less than 97 percent and no greater than 103 percent.

(4) Subsequent verification of an AEDM. (i) Each manufacturer that has used an AEDM under this section shall have available for inspection by the Department of Energy records showing: The method or methods used; the mathematical model, the engineering or statistical analysis, computer simulation or modeling, and other analytic evaluation of performance data on which the AEDM is based; complete test data, product information, and related information that the manufacturer has generated or acquired pursuant to paragraph (a)(3) of this section; and the calculations used to determine the efficiency and total power losses of each basic model to which the AEDM was applied.

(ii) If requested by the Department, the manufacturer shall conduct simulations to predict the performance of particular basic models of distribution transformers specified by the Department, analyses of previous simulations conducted by the manufacturer, sample testing of basic models selected by the Department, or a combination of the foregoing.

(b) Additional testing requirements—(1) Selection of basic models for testing if an AEDM is to be applied. (i) A manufacturer must select basic models for testing in accordance with the following criteria:

(A) Two of the basic models must be among the five basic models with the highest unit volumes of production by the manufacturer in the prior year, or during the prior 12-calendar-month period beginning in 2003,1 whichever is later;

1 When identifying these five basic models, any basic model that does not comply with Federal energy conservation standards for distribution transformers that may be in effect shall be excluded from consideration.

(B) No two basic models should have the same combination of power and voltage ratings; and

(C) At least one basic model should be single-phase and at least one should be three-phase.

(ii) In any instance where it is impossible for a manufacturer to select basic models for testing in accordance with all of these criteria, the criteria shall be given priority in the order in which they are listed. Within the limits imposed by the criteria, basic models shall be selected randomly.

(2) Selection of units for testing within a basic model. For each basic model a manufacturer selects for testing, it shall select and test units as follows:

(i) If the manufacturer would produce five or fewer units of a basic model over a reasonable period of time (approximately 180 days), then it must test each unit. However, a manufacturer may not use a basic model with a sample size of fewer than five units to substantiate an AEDM pursuant to paragraph (a)(3) of this section.

(ii) If the manufacturer produces more than five units over such period of time, it must either test all such units or select a sample of at least five units at random and test them. Any such sample shall be comprised of production units of the basic model, or units that are representative of such production units.

(3) Applying results of testing. In a test of compliance with a represented efficiency, the average efficiency of the sample, X , which is defined by

where Xi is the measured efficiency of unit i and n is the number of units tested, must satisfy the condition:

where RE is the represented efficiency.

Effective Date Note:  At 71 FR 24997, Apr. 27, 2006, §431.197 was added, effective May 30, 2006, except for paragraph (a)(4)(i) which contains information collection requirements and will not become effective until approval has been given by the Office of Management and Budget.

§ 431.198   Enforcement testing for distribution transformers.

(a) Test notice. Upon receiving information in writing, concerning the energy performance of a particular distribution transformer sold by a particular manufacturer or private labeler, which indicates that the transformer may not be in compliance with the applicable energy efficiency standard, or upon undertaking to ascertain the accuracy of the efficiency rating on the nameplate or in marketing materials for a distribution transformer, disclosed pursuant to this part, the Department may conduct testing of that equipment under this subpart by means of a test notice addressed to the manufacturer in accordance with the following requirements:

(1) The test notice procedure will only be followed after the Department has examined the underlying test data (or, where appropriate, data as to use of an AEDM) provided by the manufacturer and after the manufacturer has been offered the opportunity to meet with the Department to verify, as applicable, compliance with the applicable efficiency standard, or the accuracy of labeling information, or both. In addition, where compliance of a basic model was certified based on an AEDM, the Department shall have the discretion to pursue the provisions of §431.197(a)(4)(ii) prior to invoking the test notice procedure. The Department shall be permitted to observe any reverification procedures undertaken pursuant to this subpart, and to inspect the results of such reverification.

(2) The Department will mail or deliver the test notice to the plant manager or other responsible official, as designated by the manufacturer.

(3) The test notice will specify the basic model(s) to be selected for testing, the method of selecting the test sample, the date and time at which testing shall be initiated, the date by which testing is scheduled to be completed and the facility at which testing will be conducted. The test notice may also provide for situations in which a specified basic model is unavailable for testing, and may include alternative basic models. The specified basic model may be one either that the manufacturer has rated by actual testing or that it has rated by the use of an AEDM.

(4) The Department may require in the test notice that the manufacturer shall ship at its expense a reasonable number of units of each basic model specified in such test notice to a testing laboratory designated by the Department. The number of units of each basic model specified in a test notice shall not exceed twenty (20).

(5) Except as required or provided in paragraphs (a)(6) or (a)(7) of this section, initially the Department will test five units.

(6) Except as provided in paragraph (a)(7) of this section, if fewer than five units of a basic model are available for testing when the manufacturer receives the test notice, then

(i) DOE will test the available unit(s); or

(ii) If one or more other units of the basic model are expected to become available within six months, DOE may instead, at its discretion, test either:

(A) The available unit(s) and one or more of the other units that subsequently become available (up to a maximum of twenty); or

(B) Up to twenty of the other units that subsequently become available.

(7) Notwithstanding paragraphs (a)(5) and (a)(6) of this section, if testing of the available or subsequently available units of a basic model would be impractical, as for example where a basic model is very large, has unusual testing requirements, or has limited production, the Department may in its discretion decide to base the determination of compliance on the testing of fewer than the available number of units, if the manufacturer so requests and demonstrates that the criteria of this paragraph are met.

(8) When testing units under paragraphs (a)(5), (a)(6), or (a)(7) of this section, DOE shall perform the following number of tests:

(i) If DOE tests four or more units, it will test each unit once;

(ii) If DOE tests two or three units, it will test each unit twice; or

(iii) If DOE tests one unit, it will test that unit four times.

(9) Within five working days of the time the units are selected, the manufacturer shall ship the specified test units of the basic model to the testing laboratory.

(b) Testing laboratory. Whenever the Department conducts enforcement testing at a designated laboratory in accordance with a test notice under this section, the resulting test data shall constitute official test data for that basic model. Such test data will be used by the Department to make a determination of compliance or noncompliance.

(c) Sampling. The determination that a manufacturer's basic model complies with its labeled efficiency, or the applicable energy efficiency standard, shall be based on the testing conducted in accordance with the statistical sampling procedures set forth in Appendix B of this subpart and the test procedures specified for distribution transformers.

(d) Test unit selection. The Department shall select a batch, a batch sample, and test units from the batch sample in accordance with the following provisions of this paragraph and the conditions specified in the test notice.

(1) The batch may be subdivided by the Department utilizing criteria specified in the test notice.

(2) The Department will then randomly select a batch sample of up to 20 units from one or more subdivided groups within the batch. The manufacturer shall keep on hand all units in the batch sample until such time as the basic model is determined to be in compliance or non-compliance.

(3) The Department will randomly select individual test units comprising the test sample from the batch sample.

(4) All random selection shall be achieved by sequentially numbering all of the units in a batch sample and then using a table of random numbers to select the units to be tested.

(e) Test unit preparation. (1) Prior to and during the testing, a test unit selected in accordance with paragraph (d) of this section shall not be prepared, modified, or adjusted in any manner unless such preparation, modification, or adjustment is allowed by the applicable Department of Energy test procedure.

(2) No quality control, testing, or assembly procedures shall be performed on a test unit, or any parts and sub-assemblies thereof, that is not performed during the production and assembly of all other units included in the basic model.

(3) A test unit shall be considered defective if such unit is inoperative or is found to be in noncompliance due to failure of the unit to operate according to the manufacturer's design and operating instructions. Defective units, including those damaged due to shipping or handling, shall be reported immediately to the Department. The Department shall authorize testing of an additional unit on a case-by-case basis.

(f) Testing at manufacturer's option. (1) If a manufacturer's basic model is determined to be in noncompliance with the applicable energy performance standard at the conclusion of Department testing in accordance with the sampling plan specified in Appendix B of this subpart, the manufacturer may request that the Department conduct additional testing of the basic model according to procedures set forth in Appendix B of this subpart and the test procedures specified for distribution transformers.

(2) All units tested under this paragraph (f) shall be selected and tested in accordance with the provisions given in paragraphs (a)(9), (b), (d) and (e) of this section.

(3) The manufacturer shall bear the cost of all testing conducted under this paragraph (f).

(4) The manufacturer shall cease distribution of the basic model tested under the provisions of this paragraph from the time the manufacturer elects to exercise the option provided in this paragraph until the basic model is determined to be in compliance. The Department may seek civil penalties for all units distributed during such period.

(5) If the additional testing results in a determination of compliance, a notice of allowance to resume distribution shall be issued by the Department.

Appendix A to Subpart K of Part 431—Uniform Test Method for Measuring the Energy Consumption of Distribution Transformers

1.0  Definitions.

The definitions contained in §§431.2 and 431.192 are applicable to this Appendix A.

2.0  Accuracy Requirements.

(a) Equipment and methods for loss measurement shall be sufficiently accurate that measurement error will be limited to the values shown in Table 2.1.

 Table 2.1_Test System Accuracy Requirements for Each Measured Quantity------------------------------------------------------------------------             Measured quantity                  Test system  accuracy------------------------------------------------------------------------Power Losses..............................  ± 3.0%Voltage...................................  ± 0.5%Current...................................  ± 0.5%Resistance................................  ± 0.5%Temperature...............................  ± 1.0 °C------------------------------------------------------------------------

(b) Only instrument transformers meeting the 0.3 metering accuracy class, or better, may be used under this test method.

3.0  Resistance Measurements

3.1  General Considerations

(a) Measure or establish the winding temperature at the time of the winding resistance measurement.

(b) Measure the direct current resistance (Rdc) of transformer windings by one of the methods outlined in section 3.3. The methods of section 3.5 must be used to correct load losses to the applicable reference temperature from the temperature at which they are measured. Observe precautions while taking measurements, such as those in section 3.4, in order to maintain measurement uncertainty limits specified in Table 2.1.

3.2  Temperature Determination of Windings and Pre-conditions for Resistance Measurement.

Make temperature measurements in protected areas where the air temperature is stable and there are no drafts. Determine the winding temperature (Tdc) for liquid-immersed and dry-type distribution transformers by the methods described in sections 3.2.1 and 3.2.2, respectively.

3.2.1  Liquid-Immersed Distribution Transformers.

3.2.1.1  Methods

Record the winding temperature (Tdc) of liquid-immersed transformers as the average of either of the following:

(a) The measurements from two temperature sensing devices (for example, thermocouples) applied to the outside of the transformer tank and thermally insulated from the surrounding environment, with one located at the level of the oil and the other located near the tank bottom or at the lower radiator header if applicable; or

(b) The measurements from two temperature sensing devices immersed in the transformer liquid, with one located directly above the winding and other located directly below the winding.

3.2.1.2  Conditions

Make this determination under either of the following conditions:

(a) The windings have been under insulating liquid with no excitation and no current in the windings for four hours before the dc resistance is measured; or

(b) The temperature of the insulating liquid has stabilized, and the difference between the top and bottom temperature does not exceed 5 °C.

3.2.2  Dry-Type Distribution Transformers.

Record the winding temperature (Tdc) of dry-type transformers as either of the following:

(a) For ventilated dry-type units, use the average of readings of four or more thermometers, thermocouples, or other suitable temperature sensors inserted within the coils. Place the sensing points of the measuring devices as close as possible to the winding conductors. For sealed units, such as epoxy-coated or epoxy-encapsulated units, use the average of four or more temperature sensors located on the enclosure and/or cover, as close to different parts of the winding assemblies as possible; or

(b) For both ventilated and sealed units, use the ambient temperature of the test area, under the following conditions:

(1) All internal temperatures measured by the internal temperature sensors must not differ from the test area ambient temperature by more than 2 °C.

(2) Enclosure surface temperatures for sealed units must not differ from the test area ambient temperature by more than 2 °C.

(3) Test area ambient temperature should not have changed by more than 3 °C for 3 hours before the test.

(4) Neither voltage nor current has been applied to the unit under test for 24 hours. In addition, increase this initial 24 hour period by any added amount of time necessary for the temperature of the transformer windings to stabilize at the level of the ambient temperature. However, this additional amount of time need not exceed 24 hours.

3.3  Resistance Measurement Methods.

Make resistance measurements using either the resistance bridge method, the voltmeter-ammeter method or a resistance meter. In each instance when this Uniform Test Method is used to test more than one unit of a basic model to determine the efficiency of that basic model, the resistance of the units being tested may be determined from making resistance measurements on only one of the units.

3.3.1  Resistance Bridge Methods.

If the resistance bridge method is selected, use either the Wheatstone or Kelvin bridge circuit (or the equivalent of either).

3.3.1.1  Wheatstone Bridge

(a) This bridge is best suited for measuring resistances larger than ten ohms. A schematic diagram of a Wheatstone bridge with a representative transformer under test is shown in Figure 3.1.

View or download PDF

Where:

Rdc is the resistance of the transformer winding being measured,

Rs is a standard resistor having the resistance Rs,

Ra, Rb are two precision resistors with resistance values Ra and Rb , respectively; at least one resistor must have a provision for resistance adjustment,

Rt is a resistor for reducing the time constant of the circuit,

D is a null detector, which may be either a micro ammeter or microvoltmeter or equivalent instrument for observing that no signal is present when the bridge is balanced, and

Vdc is a source of dc voltage for supplying the power to the Wheatstone Bridge.

(b) In the measurement process, turn on the source (Vdc), and adjust the resistance ratio (Ra/Rb) to produce zero signal at the detector (D). Determine the winding resistance by using equation 3–1 as follows:

3.3.1.2  Kelvin Bridge

(a) This bridge separates the resistance of the connecting conductors to the transformer winding being measured from the resistance of the winding, and therefore is best suited for measuring resistances of ten ohms and smaller. A schematic diagram of a Kelvin bridge with a representative transformer under test is shown in Figure 3.2.

  

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(b) The Kelvin Bridge has seven of the same type of components as in the Wheatstone Bridge. It has two more resistors than the Wheatstone bridge, Ra1 and Rb1. At least one of these resistors must have adjustable resistance. In the measurement process, the source is turned on, two resistance ratios (Ra/Rb) and (Ra1/Rb1) are adjusted to be equal, and then the two ratios are adjusted together to balance the bridge producing zero signal at the detector. Determine the winding resistance by using equation 3–2 as follows:

as with the Wheatstone bridge, with an additional condition that:

(c) The Kelvin bridge provides two sets of leads, current-carrying and voltage-sensing, to the transformer terminals and the standard resistor, thus eliminating voltage drops from the measurement in the current-carrying leads as represented by Rd.

3.3.2  Voltmeter-Ammeter Method.

(a) Employ the voltmeter-ammeter method only if the rated current of the winding is greater than one ampere and the test current is limited to 15 percent of the winding current. Connect the transformer winding under test to the circuit shown in Figure 3.3.

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Where:

A is an ammeter or a voltmeter-shunt combination for measuring the current (Imdc) in the transformer winding,

V is a voltmeter with sensitivity in the millivolt range for measuring the voltage (Vmdc) applied to the transformer winding,

Rdc is the resistance of the transformer winding being measured,

Rt is a resistor for reducing the time constant of the circuit, and

Vdc is a source of dc voltage for supplying power to the measuring circuit.

(b) To perform the measurement, turn on the source to produce current no larger than 15 percent of the rated current for the winding. Wait until the current and voltage readings have stabilized and then take simultaneous readings of voltage and current. Determine the winding resistance Rdc by using equation 3–4 as follows:

Where:

Vmdc is the voltage measured by the voltmeter V, and

Imdc is the current measured by the ammeter A.

(c) As shown in Figure 3.3, separate current and voltage leads must be brought to the transformer terminals. (This eliminates the errors due to lead and contact resistance.)

3.3.3  Resistance Meters.

Resistance meters may be based on voltmeter-ammeter, or resistance bridge, or some other operating principle. Any meter used to measure a transformer's winding resistance must have specifications for resistance range, current range, and ability to measure highly inductive resistors that cover the characteristics of the transformer being tested. Also the meter's specifications for accuracy must meet the applicable criteria of Table 2.1 in section 2.0.

3.4  Precautions in Measuring Winding Resistance.

3.4.1  Required actions.

The following guidelines must be observed when making resistance measurements:

(a) Use separate current and voltage leads when measuring small (< 10 ohms) resistance.

(b) Use null detectors in bridge circuits, and measuring instruments in voltmeter-ammeter circuits, that have sensitivity and resolution sufficient to enable observation of at least 0.1 percent change in the measured resistance.

(c) Maintain the dc test current at or below 15 percent of the rated winding current.

(d) Inclusion of a stabilizing resistor Rt (see section 3.4.2) will require higher source voltage.

(e) Disconnect the null detector (if a bridge circuit is used) and voltmeter from the circuit before the current is switched off, and switch off current by a suitable insulated switch.

3.4.2  Guideline for Time Constant.

(a) The following guideline is suggested for the tester as a means to facilitate the measurement of resistance in accordance with the accuracy requirements of section 2.0:

(b) The accurate reading of resistance Rdc may be facilitated by shortening the time constant. This is done by introducing a resistor Rt in series with the winding under test in both the bridge and voltmeter-ammeter circuits as shown in Figures 3.1 to 3.3. The relationship for the time constant is:

Where:

Tc is the time constant in seconds,

Ltc is the total magnetizing and leakage inductance of the winding under test, in henries, and

Rtc is the total resistance in ohms, consisting of Rt in series with the winding resistance Rdc and the resistance Rs of the standard resistor in the bridge circuit.

(c) Because Rtc is in the denominator of the expression for the time constant, increasing the resistance Rtc will decrease the time constant. If the time constant in a given test circuit is too long for the resistance readings to be stable, then a higher resistance can be substituted for the existing Rtc, and successive replacements can be made until adequate stability is reached.

3.5  Conversion of Resistance Measurements.

(a) Resistance measurements must be corrected, from the temperature at which the winding resistance measurements were made, to the reference temperature. As specified in these test procedures, the reference temperature for liquid-immersed transformers loaded at 50 percent of the rated load is 55 °C. For medium-voltage, dry-type transformers loaded at 50 percent of the rated load, and for low-voltage, dry-type transformers loaded at 35 percent of the rated load, the reference temperature is 75 °C.

(b) Correct the measured resistance to the resistance at the reference temperature using equation 3–6 as follows:

Where:

Rts is the resistance at the reference temperature, Ts,

Rdc is the measured resistance at temperature, Tdc,

Ts is the reference temperature in °C,

Tdc is the temperature at which resistance was measured in °C, and

Tk is 234.5 °C for copper or 225 °C for aluminum.

4.0 Loss Measurement

4.1  General Considerations.

The efficiency of a transformer is computed from the total transformer losses, which are determined from the measured value of the no-load loss and load loss power components. Each of these two power loss components is measured separately using test sets that are identical, except that shorting straps are added for the load-loss test. The measured quantities will need correction for instrumentation losses and may need corrections for known phase angle errors in measuring equipment and for the waveform distortion in the test voltage. Any power loss not measured at the applicable reference temperature must be adjusted to that reference temperature. The measured load loss must also be adjusted to a specified output loading level if not measured at the specified output loading level. Test distribution transformers designed for harmonic currents using a sinusoidal waveform (k=1).

4.2  Measurement of Power Losses.

4.2.1  No-Load Loss.

Measure the no-load loss and apply corrections as described in section 4.4, using the appropriate test set as described in section 4.3.

4.2.2  Load Loss.

Measure the load loss and apply corrections as described in section 4.5, using the appropriate test set as described in section 4.3.

4.3  Test Sets.

(a) The same test set may be used for both the no-load loss and load loss measurements provided the range of the test set encompasses the test requirements of both tests. Calibrate the test set to national standards to meet the tolerances in Table 2.1 in section 2.0. In addition, the wattmeter, current measuring system and voltage measuring system must be calibrated separately if the overall test set calibration is outside the tolerance as specified in section 2.0 or the individual phase angle error exceeds the values specified in section 4.5.3.

(b) A test set based on the wattmeter-voltmeter-ammeter principle may be used to measure the power loss and the applied voltage and current of a transformer where the transformer's test current and voltage are within the measurement capability of the measuring instruments. Current and voltage transformers, known collectively as instrument transformers, or other scaling devices such as resistive or capacitive dividers for voltage, may be used in the above circumstance, and must be used together with instruments to measure current, voltage, or power where the current or voltage of the transformer under test exceeds the measurement capability of such instruments. Thus, a test set may include a combination of measuring instruments and instrument transformers (or other scaling devices), so long as the current or voltage of the transformer under test does not exceed the measurement capability of any of the instruments.

4.3.1  Single-Phase Test Sets.

Use these for testing single-phase distribution transformers.

4.3.1.1  Without Instrument Transformers.

(a) A single-phase test set without an instrument transformer is shown in Figure 4.1.

View or download PDF

Where:

W is a wattmeter used to measure Pnm and Plm, the no-load and load loss power, respectively,

Vrms is a true root-mean-square (rms) voltmeter used to measure Vr(nm) and Vlm, the rms test voltages in no-load and load loss measurements, respectively,

Vav is an average sensing voltmeter, calibrated to indicate rms voltage for sinusoidal waveforms and used to measure Va(nm), the average voltage in no-load loss measurements,

A is an rms ammeter used to measure test current, especially Ilm, the load loss current, and

(SC) is a conductor for providing a short-circuit across the output windings for the load loss measurements.

(b) Either the primary or the secondary winding can be connected to the test set. However, more compatible voltage and current levels for the measuring instruments are available if for no-load loss measurements the secondary (low voltage) winding is connected to the test set, and for load loss measurements the primary winding is connected to the test set. Use the average-sensing voltmeter, Vav, only in no-load loss measurements.

4.3.1.2  With Instrument Transformers.

A single-phase test set with instrument transformers is shown in Figure 4.2. This circuit has the same four measuring instruments as that in Figure 4.1. The current and voltage transformers, designated as (CT) and (VT), respectively, are added.

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4.3.2  Three-Phase Test Sets.

Use these for testing three-phase distribution transformers. Use in a four-wire, three-wattmeter test circuit.

4.3.2.1  Without Instrument Transformers.

(a) A three-phase test set without instrument transformers is shown in Figure 4.3. This test set is essentially the same circuit shown in Figure 4.1 repeated three times, and the instruments are individual devices as shown. As an alternative, the entire instrumentation system of a three-phase test set without transformers may consist of a multi-function analyzer.

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(b) Either group of windings, the primary or the secondary, can be connected in wye or delta configuration. If both groups of windings are connected in the wye configuration for the no-load test, the neutral of the winding connected to the test set must be connected to the neutral of the source to provide a return path for the neutral current.

(c) In the no-load loss measurement, the voltage on the winding must be measured. Therefore a provision must be made to switch the voltmeters for line-to-neutral measurements for wye-connected windings and for line-to-line measurements for delta-connected windings.

4.3.2.2  With Instrument Transformers.

A three-phase test set with instrument transformers is shown in Figure 4.4. This test set is essentially the same circuit shown in Figure 4.2 repeated three times. Provision must be made to switch the voltmeters for line-to-neutral and line-to-line measurements as in section 4.3.2.1. The voltage sensors (“coils”) of the wattmeters must always be connected in the line-to-neutral configuration.

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4.3.2.3  Test Set Neutrals.

If the power source in the test circuit is wye-connected, ground the neutral. If the power source in the test circuit is delta-connected, use a grounding transformer to obtain neutral and ground for the test.

4.4  No-Load Losses: Measurement and Calculations.

4.4.1  General Considerations.

Measurement corrections are permitted but not required for instrumentation losses and for losses from auxiliary devices. Measurement corrections are required:

(a) When the waveform of the applied voltage is non-sinusoidal; and

(b) When the core temperature or liquid temperature is outside the 20 °C ± 10 °C range.

4.4.2  No-Load Loss Test.

(a) The purpose of the no-load loss test is to measure no-load losses at a specified excitation voltage and a specified frequency. The no-load loss determination must be based on a sine-wave voltage corrected to the reference temperature. Connect either of the transformer windings, primary or secondary, to the appropriate test set of Figures 4.1 to 4.4, giving consideration to section 4.4.2(a)(2). Leave the unconnected winding(s) open circuited. Apply the rated voltage at rated frequency, as measured by the average-sensing voltmeter, to the transformer. Take the readings of the wattmeter(s) and the average-sensing and true rms voltmeters. Observe the following precautions:

(1) Voltmeter connections. When correcting to a sine-wave basis using the average-voltmeter method, the voltmeter connections must be such that the waveform applied to the voltmeters is the same as the waveform across the energized windings.

(2) Energized windings. Energize either the high voltage or the low voltage winding of the transformer under test.

(3) Voltage and frequency. The no-load loss test must be conducted with rated voltage impressed across the transformer terminals using a voltage source at a frequency equal to the rated frequency of the transformer under test.

(b) Adjust the voltage to the specified value as indicated by the average-sensing voltmeter. Record the values of rms voltage, rms current, electrical power, and average voltage as close to simultaneously as possible. For a three-phase transformer, take all of the readings on one phase before proceeding to the next, and record the average of the three rms voltmeter readings as the rms voltage value.

Note: When the tester uses a power supply that is not synchronized with an electric utility grid, such as a dc/ac motor-generator set, check the frequency and maintain it within ±0.5 percent of the rated frequency of the transformer under test. A power source that is directly connected to, or synchronized with, an electric utility grid need not be monitored for frequency.

4.4.3  Corrections.

4.4.3.1  Correction for Instrumentation Losses.

Measured losses attributable to the voltmeters and wattmeter voltage circuit, and to voltage transformers if they are used, may be deducted from the total no-load losses measured during testing.

4.4.3.2  Correction for Non-Sinusoidal Applied Voltage.

(a) The measured value of no-load loss must be corrected to a sinusoidal voltage, except when waveform distortion in the test voltage causes the magnitude of the correction to be less than 1 percent. In such a case, no correction is required.

(b) To make a correction where the distortion requires a correction of 5 percent or less, use equation 4–1. If the distortion requires a correction to be greater than 5 percent, improve the test voltage and re-test. Repeat until the distortion requires a correction of 5 percent or less.

(c) Determine the no-load losses of the transformer corrected for sine-wave basis from the measured value by using equation 4–1 as follows:

Where:

Pncl is the no-load loss corrected to a sine-wave basis at the temperature (Tnm) at which no-load loss is measured,

Pnm is the measured no-load loss at temperature Tnm,

P1 is the per unit hysteresis loss,

P2 is the per unit eddy-current loss,

P1 + P2 = 1,

Vr(nm) is the test voltage measured by rms voltmeter, and

Va(nm) is the test voltage measured by average-voltage voltmeter.

(d) The two loss components (P1 and P2) are assumed equal in value, each assigned a value of 0.5 per unit, unless the actual measurement-based values of hysteresis and eddy-current losses are available (in per unit form), in which case the actual measurements apply.

4.4.3.3  Correction of No-Load Loss to Reference Temperature.

After correcting the measured no-load loss for waveform distortion, correct the loss to the reference temperature of 20 °C. If the no-load loss measurements were made between 10 °C and 30 °C, this correction is not required. If the correction to reference temperature is applied, then the core temperature of the transformer during no-load loss measurement (Tnm) must be determined within ± 10 °C of the true average core temperature. Correct the no-load loss to the reference temperature by using equation 4–2 as follows:

Where:

Pnc is the no-load losses corrected for waveform distortion and then to the reference temperature of 20 °C,

Pnc1 is the no-load losses, corrected for waveform distortion, at temperature Tnm,

Tnm is the core temperature during the measurement of no-load losses, and

Tnr is the reference temperature, 20 °C.

4.5  Load Losses: Measurement and Calculations.

4.5.1  General Considerations.

(a) The load losses of a transformer are those losses incident to a specified load carried by the transformer. Load losses consist of ohmic loss in the windings due to the load current and stray losses due to the eddy currents induced by the leakage flux in the windings, core clamps, magnetic shields, tank walls, and other conducting parts. The ohmic loss of a transformer varies directly with temperature, whereas the stray losses vary inversely with temperature.

(b) For a transformer with a tap changer, conduct the test at the rated current and rated-voltage tap position. For a transformer that has a configuration of windings which allows for more than one nominal rated voltage, determine its load losses either in the winding configuration in which the highest losses occur or in each winding configuration in which the transformer can operate.

4.5.2  Tests for Measuring Load Losses.

(a) Connect the transformer with either the high-voltage or low-voltage windings to the appropriate test set. Then short-circuit the winding that was not connected to the test set. Apply a voltage at the rated frequency (of the transformer under test) to the connected windings to produce the rated current in the transformer. Take the readings of the wattmeter(s), the ammeters(s), and rms voltmeter(s).

(b) Regardless of the test set selected, the following preparatory requirements must be satisfied for accurate test results:

(1) Determine the temperature of the windings using the applicable method in section 3.2.1 or section 3.2.2.

(2) The conductors used to short-circuit the windings must have a cross-sectional area equal to, or greater than, the corresponding transformer leads, or, if the tester uses a different method to short-circuit the windings, the losses in the short-circuiting conductor assembly must be less than 10 percent of the transformer's load losses.

(3) When the tester uses a power supply that is not synchronized with an electric utility grid, such as a dc/ac motor-generator set, follow the provisions of the “Note” in section 4.4.2.

4.5.3  Corrections.

4.5.3.1  Correction for Losses from Instrumentation and Auxiliary Devices.

4.5.3.1.1  Instrumentation Losses.

Measured losses attributable to the voltmeters, wattmeter voltage circuit and short-circuiting conductor (SC), and to the voltage transformers if they are used, may be deducted from the total load losses measured during testing.

4.5.3.1.2  Losses from Auxiliary Devices.

Measured losses attributable to auxiliary devices (e.g., circuit breakers, fuses, switches) installed in the transformer, if any, that are not part of the winding and core assembly, may be excluded from load losses measured during testing. To exclude these losses, either (1) measure transformer losses without the auxiliary devices by removing or by-passing them, or (2) measure transformer losses with the auxiliary devices connected, determine the losses associated with the auxiliary devices, and deduct these losses from the load losses measured during testing.

4.5.3.2  Correction for Phase Angle Errors.

(a) Corrections for phase angle errors are not required if the instrumentation is calibrated over the entire range of power factors and phase angle errors. Otherwise, determine whether to correct for phase angle errors from the magnitude of the normalized per unit correction, βn, obtained by using equation 4–3 as follows:

(b) The correction must be applied if βn is outside the limits of ±0.01. If βn is within the limits of ±0.01, the correction is permitted but not required.

(c) If the correction for phase angle errors is to be applied, first examine the total system phase angle (βw − βv + βc). Where the total system phase angle is equal to or less than ±12 milliradians (±41 minutes), use either equation 4–4 or 4–5 to correct the measured load loss power for phase angle errors, and where the total system phase angle exceeds ±12 milliradians (±41 minutes) use equation 4–5, as follows:

(d) The symbols in this section (4.5.3.2) have the following meanings:

Plc1 is the corrected wattmeter reading for phase angle errors,

Plm is the actual wattmeter reading,

Vlm is the measured voltage at the transformer winding,

Ilm is the measured rms current in the transformer winding,

is the measured phase angle between Vlm and Ilm,

βw is the phase angle error (in radians) of the wattmeter; the error is positive if the phase angle between the voltage and current phasors as sensed by the wattmeter is smaller than the true phase angle, thus effectively increasing the measured power,

βv is the phase angle error (in radians) of the voltage transformer; the error is positive if the secondary voltage leads the primary voltage, and

βc is the phase angle error (in radians) of the current transformer; the error is positive if the secondary current leads the primary current.

(e) The instrumentation phase angle errors used in the correction equations must be specific for the test conditions involved.

4.5.3.3  Temperature Correction of Load Loss.

(a) When the measurement of load loss is made at a temperature Tlm that is different from the reference temperature, use the procedure summarized in the equations 4–6 to 4–10 to correct the measured load loss to the reference temperature. The symbols used in these equations are defined at the end of this section.

(b) Calculate the ohmic loss (Pe) by using equation 4–6 as follows:

(c) Obtain the stray loss by subtracting the calculated ohmic loss from the measured load loss, by using equation 4–7 as follows:

(d) Correct the ohmic and stray losses to the reference temperature for the load loss by using equations 4–8 and 4–9, respectively, as follows:

(e) Add the ohmic and stray losses, corrected to the reference temperature, to give the load loss, Plc2, at the reference temperature, by using equation 4–10 as follows:

(f) The symbols in this section (4.5.3.3) have the following meanings:

Ilm(p) is the primary current in amperes,

Ilm(s) is the secondary current in amperes,

Pe is the ohmic loss in the transformer in watts at the temperature Tlm,

Pe(p) is the ohmic loss in watts in the primary winding at the temperature Tlm,

Pe(s) is the ohmic loss in watts in the secondary winding at the temperature Tlm,

Per is the ohmic loss in watts corrected to the reference temperature,

Plc1 is the measured load loss in watts, corrected for phase angle error, at the temperature Tlm,

Plc2 is the load loss at the reference temperature,

Ps is the stray loss in watts at the temperature Tlm,

Psr is the stray loss in watts corrected to the reference temperature,

Rdc(p) is the measured dc primary winding resistance in ohms,

Rdc(s) is the measured dc secondary winding resistance in ohms,

Tk is the critical temperature in degrees Celsius for the material of the transformer windings. Where copper is used in both primary and secondary windings, Tk is 234.5 °C; where aluminum is used in both primary and secondary windings, Tk is 225 °C; where both copper and aluminum are used in the same transformer, the value of 229 °C is used for Tk,

Tk(p) is the critical temperature in degrees Celsius for the material of the primary winding: 234.5 °C if copper and 225 °C if aluminum,

Tk(s) is the critical temperature in degrees Celsius for the material of the secondary winding: 234.5 °C if copper and 225 °C if aluminum,

Tlm is the temperature in degrees Celsius at which the load loss is measured,

Tlr is the reference temperature for the load loss in degrees Celsius,

Tdc is the temperature in degrees Celsius at which the resistance values are measured, and

N1/N2 is the ratio of the number of turns in the primary winding (N1) to the number of turns in the secondary winding (N2); for a primary winding with taps, N1 is the number of turns used when the voltage applied to the primary winding is the rated primary voltage.

5.0  Determining the Efficiency Value of the Transformer

This section presents the equations to use in determining the efficiency value of the transformer at the required reference conditions and at the specified loading level. The details of measurements are described in sections 3.0 and 4.0. For a transformer that has a configuration of windings which allows for more than one nominal rated voltage, determine its efficiency either at the voltage at which the highest losses occur or at each voltage at which the transformer is rated to operate.

5.1  Output Loading Level Adjustment.

If the output loading level for energy efficiency is different from the level at which the load loss power measurements were made, then adjust the corrected load loss power, Plc2, by using equation 5–1 as follows:

Where:

Plc is the adjusted load loss power to the specified energy efficiency load level,

Plc2 is as calculated in section 4.5.3.3,

Por is the rated transformer apparent power (name plate),

Pos is the specified energy efficiency load level, where , and Pos = PorL2 , and

L is the per unit load level, e.g., if the load level is 50 percent then “L” will be 0.5.

5.2  Total Loss Power Calculation.

Calculate the corrected total loss power by using equation 5–2 as follows:

Where:

Pts is the corrected total loss power adjusted for the transformer output loading specified by the standard,

Pnc is as calculated in section 4.4.3.3, and

Plc is as calculated in section 5.1.

5.3  Energy Efficiency Calculation.

Calculate efficiency (η) in percent at specified energy efficiency load level, Pos, by using equation 5–3 as follows:

Where:

Pos is as described and calculated in section 5.1, and

Pts is as described and calculated in section 5.2.

5.4  Significant Figures in Power Loss and Efficiency Data.

In measured and calculated data, retain enough significant figures to provide at least 1 percent resolution in power loss data and 0.01 percent resolution in efficiency data.

6.0  Test Equipment Calibration and Certification

Maintain and calibrate test equipment and measuring instruments, maintain calibration records, and perform other test and measurement quality assurance procedures according to the following sections. The calibration of the test set must confirm the accuracy of the test set to that specified in section 2.0, Table 2.1.

6.1  Test Equipment.

The party performing the tests shall control, calibrate and maintain measuring and test equipment, whether or not it owns the equipment, has the equipment on loan, or the equipment is provided by another party. Equipment shall be used in a manner which assures that measurement uncertainty is known and is consistent with the required measurement capability.

6.2  Calibration and Certification.

The party performing the tests must:

(a) Identify the measurements to be made, the accuracy required (section 2.0) and select the appropriate measurement and test equipment;

(b) At prescribed intervals, or prior to use, identify, check and calibrate, if needed, all measuring and test equipment systems or devices that affect test accuracy, against certified equipment having a known valid relationship to nationally recognized standards; where no such standards exist, the basis used for calibration must be documented;

(c) Establish, document and maintain calibration procedures, including details of equipment type, identification number, location, frequency of checks, check method, acceptance criteria and action to be taken when results are unsatisfactory;

(d) Ensure that the measuring and test equipment is capable of the accuracy and precision necessary, taking into account the voltage, current and power factor of the transformer under test;

(e) Identify measuring and test equipment with a suitable indicator or approved identification record to show the calibration status;

(f) Maintain calibration records for measuring and test equipment;

(g) Assess and document the validity of previous test results when measuring and test equipment is found to be out of calibration;

(h) Ensure that the environmental conditions are suitable for the calibrations, measurements and tests being carried out;

(i) Ensure that the handling, preservation and storage of measuring and test equipment is such that the accuracy and fitness for use is maintained; and

(j) Safeguard measuring and test facilities, including both test hardware and test software, from adjustments which would invalidate the calibration setting.

[71 FR 24999, Apr. 27, 2006]

Effective Date Note:  At 71 FR 24999, Apr. 27, 2006, appendix A to subpart K of part 431 was added, effective May 30, 2006, except for section 6.2(f) and section 6.2 (b) and (c) which contain information collection requirements and will not become effective until approval has been given by the Office of Management and Budget.

Appendix B to Subpart K of Part 431—Sampling Plan for Enforcement Testing

Step 1. The number of units in the sample (m1) shall be in accordance with §§431.198(a)(4), 431.198(a)(5), 431.198(a)(6) and 431.198(a)(7) and shall not be greater than twenty. The number of tests in the first sample (n1) shall be in accordance with §431.198(a)(8) and shall be not fewer than four.

Step 2. Compute the mean (X i) of the measured energy performance of the n1 tests in the first sample by using equation 1 as follows:

where Xi is the measured efficiency of test i.

Step 3. Compute the sample standard deviation (S1) of the measured efficiency of the n1 tests in the first sample by using equation 2 as follows:

Step 4. Compute the standard error (SE(X 1)) of the mean efficiency of the first sample by using equation 3 as follows:

Step 5. Compute the sample size discount (SSD(m1)) by using equation 4 as follows:

where m1 is the number of units in the sample, and RE is the applicable EPCA efficiency when the test is to determine compliance with the applicable statutory standard, or is the labeled efficiency when the test is to determine compliance with the labeled efficiency value.

Step 6. Compute the lower control limit (LCL1) for the mean of the first sample by using equation 5 as follows:

where t is the 2.5th percentile of a t-distribution for a sample size of n1, which yields a 97.5 percent confidence level for a one-tailed t-test.

Step 7. Compare the mean of the first sample (X 1) with the lower control limit (LCL1) to determine one of the following:

(i) If the mean of the first sample is below the lower control limit, then the basic model is in non-compliance and testing is at an end.

(ii) If the mean is equal to or greater than the lower control limit, no final determination of compliance or non-compliance can be made; proceed to Step 8.

Step 8. Determine the recommended sample size (n) by using equation 6 as follows:

where S1 and t have the values used in Steps 3 and 6, respectively. The factor

is based on an 8-percent tolerance in the total power loss.

Given the value of n, determine one of the following:

(i) If the value of n is less than or equal to n1 and if the mean energy efficiency of the first sample (X 1) is equal to or greater than the lower control limit (LCL1), the basic model is in compliance and testing is at an end.

(ii) If the value of n is greater than n1, and no additional units are available for testing, testing is at an end and the basic model is in non-compliance. If the value of n is greater than n1, and additional units are available for testing, select a second sample n2. The size of the n2 sample is determined to be the smallest integer equal to or greater than the difference n–n1. If the value of n2 so calculated is greater than 20–n1, set n2 equal to 20–n1.

Step 9. After testing the n2 sample, compute the combined mean (X 2) of the measured energy performance of the n1 and n2 tests of the combined first and second samples by using equation 7 as follows:

Step 10. Compute the standard error (SE(X 2)) of the mean efficiency of the n1 and n2 tests in the combined first and second samples by using equation 8 as follows:

(Note that S1 is the value obtained above in Step 3.)

Step 11. Set the lower control limit (LCL2) to,

where t has the value obtained in Step 5 and SSD(m1) is sample size discount from Step 5. Compare the combined sample mean (X 2) to the lower control limit (LCL2) to find one of the following:

(i) If the mean of the combined sample (X 2) is less than the lower control limit (LCL2), the basic model is in non-compliance and testing is at an end.

(ii) If the mean of the combined sample (X 2) is equal to or greater than the lower control limit (LCL2), the basic model is in compliance and testing is at an end.

Manufacturer-Option Testing

If a determination of non-compliance is made in Steps 6, 7 or 11, above, the manufacturer may request that additional testing be conducted, in accordance with the following procedures.

Step A. The manufacturer requests that an additional number, n3, of units be tested, with n3 chosen such that n1+n2+n3 does not exceed 20.

Step B. Compute the mean efficiency, standard error, and lower control limit of the new combined sample in accordance with the procedures prescribed in Steps 8, 9, and 10, above.

Step C. Compare the mean performance of the new combined sample to the lower control limit (LCL2) to determine one of the following:

(a) If the new combined sample mean is equal to or greater than the lower control limit, the basic model is in compliance and testing is at an end.

(b) If the new combined sample mean is less than the lower control limit and the value of n1+n2+n3 is less than 20, the manufacturer may request that additional units be tested. The total of all units tested may not exceed 20. Steps A, B, and C are then repeated.

(c) Otherwise, the basic model is determined to be in non-compliance.

[71 FR 24999, Apr. 27, 2006]

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