Substation transformers are categorized in different ways depending on factors such as voltage level, their
position in the electrical grid, and their purpose in the power system. Here’s a breakdown of these
classifications:
1. According to Voltage:
Transformers are classified into different voltage levels based on the amount of voltage they handle. This
classification is essential for ensuring safe and efficient transmission and distribution of electricity.
- High Voltage Transformers (HV): These transformers handle voltages greater than 100 kV. They are used
in transmission networks to step up the voltage for efficient long-distance transmission and to step down
voltage at substations closer to consumption areas.
- Medium Voltage Transformers (MV): These transformers operate at voltage levels between 1 kV and
100 kV. They are typically used in regional distribution networks, stepping down the voltage from the
high-voltage transmission lines for use in industrial and large commercial facilities.
- Low Voltage Transformers (LV): Operating below 1 kV, these transformers are used for final voltage step-
downs before electricity reaches residential or small commercial consumers. They ensure that electricity
is delivered at a safe and usable voltage level (e.g., 120/240 V).
2. According to Position on the Grid:
Substation transformers are positioned at different stages of the electrical power grid, which affects their
role in energy transmission and distribution.
- Step-up Transformers (Transmission Substations): These transformers are located at generating stations
and step up the voltage from the generators (e.g., from 11-25 kV to hundreds of kV) to minimize power
loss over long-distance transmission. High voltage reduces current and, in turn, the energy lost as heat in
the transmission lines.
- Step-down Transformers (Distribution Substations): Located near consumption areas, step-down
transformers reduce the high voltage from transmission lines (e.g., from 220 kV to 33 kV or lower) for safe
use in regional or local distribution networks.
- Interconnecting Transformers (Auto-transformers): These transformers connect different parts of the
grid that operate at different voltage levels, facilitating the smooth transfer of power from one grid region
to another without needing multiple transformations.
3. According to Purpose of Using:
The purpose behind the transformer also defines its classification, depending on whether it's being used
for transmission, distribution, or specific industrial needs.
- Power Transformers: These are designed for high-voltage transmission applications. They operate at
peak efficiency at high loads and are essential in transmitting electricity over long distances. Power
transformers are generally found in generating stations and high-voltage substations.
- Distribution Transformers: These transformers step down voltage for final distribution to end consumers.
They are designed to operate efficiently at lower loads compared to power transformers. Distribution
transformers are found in local substations closer to end-users like residential homes and small
businesses.
- Instrument Transformers: This category includes current transformers (CTs) and voltage transformers
(VTs). They are used for measuring electrical parameters (current and voltage) or providing inputs to
protective relays and metering systems. They do not handle large power levels but ensure accurate
monitoring and protection of the electrical system.
- Special-purpose Transformers: These are used for specific industrial applications such as welding
transformers, rectifier transformers for converting AC to DC, or earthing transformers for creating a
neutral point in ungrounded systems.
