Analysis of an Autotransformer

Restricted Earth Fault Application

Normann Fischer, Derrick Haas, and David Costello

Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories, Inc.

Revised edition released July 2010

Previously presented at the

62nd Annual Georgia Tech Protective Relaying Conference, May 2008,
61st Annual Conference for Protective Relay Engineers, April 2008,
and 7th Annual Clemson University Power Systems Conference, March 2008

Previous revised edition released January 2008

Originally presented at the

34th Annual Western Protective Relay Conference, October 2007
 1

Analysis of an Autotransformer Restricted

Earth Fault Application
Normann Fischer, Derrick Haas, and David Costello, Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories, Inc.

AbstractRestricted earth fault, or zero-sequence differential 30 percent or 0.3 per unit of the transformer-rated load current
protection, is beneficial in transformer applications. Because it and is necessary to address errors at very low current
does not respond to load current, it offers a significant magnitudes, such as those due to tap changer operations.
improvement in sensitivity over traditional differential protec-
tion. Ground current in the transformer neutral is used as a
Because a CT error resulting from saturation is most likely to
reference and is compared to zero-sequence current at the be a problem at higher current levels, the slope of the
terminals to determine if a fault is internal to the transformer. characteristic provides increased security as currents increase.
The predictability of the neutral current phase angle is critical to The slope characteristic of the primary phase-differential
it being a stable reference. It is not well understood how the element causes relay sensitivity to decrease as load current
magnitude and direction of circulating zero-sequence current in increases. Therefore, at maximum transformer loading, the
a delta tertiary relates to the zero-sequence current in the auto-
transformer neutral. This technical paper derives that relation-
phase-differential element may be unable to detect ground
ship, explains restricted earth fault protection, and uses a real- faults near the neutral until the fault evolves. Because of the
world, unexpected relay operation to demonstrate these concepts primary differential elements response to phase currents and
and make relay settings recommendations. the inherent security measures of the slope characteristic,
restricted earth fault (REF), or zero-sequence differential
I. INTRODUCTION protection, can provide better detection of phase-to-ground
Transformer differential protection is simple in concept and faults near the neutral on wye-connected windings. REF
the primary means for protecting power transformers. A elements are immune to balanced load, so set these elements
transformer differential relay compares current entering the to be more sensitive for this type of fault. Ground current in
transformer to current leaving the transformer. The phasor the transformer neutral is used as a reference and is compared
sum of the currents is the operate (or difference) current. If the to zero-sequence current at the wye-connected winding
currents are not nearly equal, we assume a possible internal terminals to determine if a ground fault is internal to the
fault. transformer-wye windings [1]. Section II describes in detail
the operation of a REF element.
IOP
As with any differential or directional application, the
Unrestrained phase angle measurement stability and the predictability of
Pickup current direction are critical to successful operation. In
Operating autotransformer installations, it is not well understood how the
Region Slope 2 magnitude and direction of circulating zero-sequence current
(Multiples of TAP)

in a delta tertiary relates to the zero-sequence current in the

autotransformer neutral. Section III derives the mathematics
and explains this relationship. From this, conclusions are
Slope 1 Restraining drawn as to what applications are appropriate for using CTs
Region
within the delta tertiary versus a CT in the autotransformer
Minimum neutral.
Pickup Section IV shares a real-world event report from an
IRT
Slope 12 (Multiples of TAP) unexpected operation in which CTs in an autotransformer
Transition delta tertiary were used as the reference current for a REF
application. Through detailed analysis, we develop a better
Fig. 1. Percentage Restraint Differential Characteristic
understanding of the REF element operation, the zero-
Instead of comparing the operate current to a simple sequence currents observed in an autotransformer, and the
threshold or pickup, the relay calculates the ratio of operate lessons learned.
current to a restraint quantity. Restraint current is typically
calculated as the scalar sum of the CT currents, (i.e., the II. REF PROTECTION
average of the current magnitudes). When the operate-to- REF elements are used to provide sensitive protection
restraint current ratio exceeds a certain percentage or slope, as against ground faults in wye-connected transformer windings.
shown in Fig. 1, the relay operates. The lowest horizontal The element is restricted in the sense that protection is
portion of the trip threshold represents the minimum
sensitivity of the relay. This minimum setting is typically
 2

restricted to ground faults within a zone defined by neutral and asserts if any of the winding residual currents used in the REF
line CT placement. function are less than a positive-sequence current restraint
Because it employs a neutral CT at one end of the winding factor (a0) multiplied by the positive-sequence current for their
and the normal set of three CTs at the line end of the winding, respective winding. Such a winding residual current value
REF protection can detect only ground faults within that might occur with false I0 or if zero-sequence current for that
particular wye-connected winding. For REF to function, the winding exceeds 50GP. False I0 can occur in cases of CT
line-end CTs must also be connected in wye, because the saturation during heavy three-phase faults. If the blocking
technique uses zero-sequence current comparisons. Delta- logic asserts, the CTS bit asserts. To prevent 32IE assertion
connected CTs cancel out all zero-sequence components of the when CTS asserts, set the E32I logic equation setting not
currents, eliminating one of the quantities the REF element equal to CTS.
needs for comparison. The lower logic group adjusts the winding residual currents
REF implementations commonly use a directional element to a common sensitivity level with the neutral CT, calculates a
(32I) that compares the direction of an operating current, phasor sum of the appropriate currents, and compares this sum
derived from the line-end CTs, with the polarizing current to the 50GP pickup value. If the sum is greater than the pickup
obtained from the neutral CT. A zero-sequence current level, the 50GC bit asserts. This bit indicates that the winding
threshold and positive-sequence restraint supervise tripping. currents are present in sufficient magnitude.
Apply REF protection to a single wye winding in a trans- Fig. 3 illustrates the logic of the REF directional element
former or to an entire autotransformer winding with as many 32I. At this stage, the element decides whether or not to
as three sets of line-end CT inputs. The line-end, three-phase operate.
winding inputs can additionally be used for normal percent-
Relay
age-restraint differential, overcurrent protection, or metering Word
Bits Relay
purposes. AND 1
Word
Bits
50GC
|IRW1| + 32IOP = 1,12,123 AND 2
AND 2 32IE Pos. _ 1.5 cyc
_C6 OR 1 32IF
Threshold C1 0
a0|I1W1| + +
|I0W1| _C2 IRW1 CTR1

32IOP = 1,12,123
Relay
Word IOP
|IRW2| + 32IOP = 2,12,123,23 Bits IRW2 CTR2
AND 3 OR 1 RE(lop Ipol*)
_C7 CTS
32IOP = 2,12,123,23
a0|I1W2| + _ 1.5 cyc

|I0W2| _C3 IRW3 CTR3 Neg. C2 32IR

32IOP = 3,123,23 Threshold + 0
IPOL
IRW4 CTR4
|IRW3| + 32IOP = 3,123,23
AND 4
_C8 Fig. 3. REF Directional Element
a0|I1W3| + The relay enables the 32I directional element if the output
|I0W3| _C4
of AND 2 in Fig. 3 asserts. This will occur if 32IE and 50GC
assert.
|IRW4| + 50G4 (Relay Word Bit)
_C5
The directional element compares the polarizing current to
50GP AND 1 32IE
E32I the operating current and indicates forward (internal) fault
CTR1
location or reverse (external) fault location. The for-
IRW1 CTR4 ward/internal indication occurs if the fault is within the
32IOP = 1,12,123
protected winding, between the line-end CTs and the neutral
CTR2 CT. The relay multiplies each current by the appropriate CT
IRW2 CTR4 +
50GC
32IOP = 2,12,123,23
_C1 ratio to convert input currents to actual primary amperes. This
50GP 0.8 must be done to properly sum the currents in the autotrans-
IRW3
CTR3
CTR4
former winding.
32IOP = 3,123,23 The polarizing current (IPOL) is the neutral CT current
multiplied by the neutral CT ratio (CTR4) to produce a
Fig. 2. REF Enable/Block Logic
primary current value. The operating current (IOP) is the
Fig. 2 shows the REF simplified enable/block logic. The phasor sum of the winding residual currents, which is also on
upper logic group determines whether to enable the REF a primary basis. The 32IOP setting determines the appropriate
directional element by asserting the 32IE bit. The two IRWn (n = 1, 2, 3), which the relay multiplies by the
enabling quantities are assertion of the E32I programmable associated CTRn. The relay then sums the products. The 32I
logic equation and a magnitude of the neutral CT secondary element calculates the real part of IOP times IPOL* (IPOL
current (IRW4) greater than the pickup setting 50GP. The complex conjugate). This equates to |IOP| times |IPOL| times the
topmost part of this logic is a blocking function. This function cosine of the angle between them. The result is positive if the
 3

angle is within 90 degrees, indicating a forward or internal H

fault. The result is negative if the angle is greater than +90 or ZHS 3I0F = 1500 A M
less than 90 degrees, indicating a reverse or external fault.
The relay compares the output of the 32I element to positive IT ZMS
VHS
L VMS
and negative thresholds to ensure security for very small
currents or for an angle very near +90 or 90 degrees. If the
32I output exceeds the threshold test, then it must persist for at
least 1.5 cycles before 32IF (forward) or 32IR (reverse) assert. a) One-Line Diagram
32IF assertion constitutes a decision to trip by the REF
K0I0HF (K01)I0HF
function. kVH
A second path can also assert the 32IF bit. This path comes P0I0HF
kVM
from AND 1 at the top of Fig. 3. The gate asserts if 32IE is I0HF
asserted. This assertion indicates that neutral current is above
ITH
pickup but 50GC is not asserted, indicating no line-end
current flow. This logic covers the situation of an internal
wye-winding fault with the line-end breaker open.
Tripping can be performed directly by the 32IF bit. If
additional security is desired, the 32IF bit can be used to 100 MVA
torque control an inverse-time curve for delayed tripping. VH = 138 kV
INH
VM = 69 kV
Fig. 4 shows the output of the REF protection function.
VL = 13.2 kV
Timing is on an extremely inverse-time overcurrent curve at
the lowest time-dial setting, with 50GP as the pickup setting. b) Three-Line Diagram and Zero-Sequence Current

Relay Relay Fig. 5. Example System for Fault Calculation

Word Timing Word
Bits Bit
ZL kVH
|IRW4| 50GP (pickup) I N = 3 K 0 I0 F 1
(1)
ZL + ZM + Z0 MS kVM
+ 50G4
U4 Curve
50GP REFP
32IF TD 0.5
Reset 1 Cycle ZM + Z0 MS kVH
IT = 3 K 0 I0 F
(2)
ZL + ZM + Z0 MS 3 kVL
where
Fig. 4. REF Protection Output Z0 HS I
K0 = = 0H
Z (Z + Z0 MS ) I0 F
Logic bit 32IF (forward fault) torque controls the timing Z0 HZ + ZH + L M

curve, while IRW4 operates the timing function. The curve ZL + ZM + Z0 MS
resets in one cycle if the current drops below pickup or if 32IF The equivalent zero-sequence network for the example
deasserts. When the curve times out, logic bit REFP asserts. system in Fig. 5 is shown in Fig. 6.
Tripping can be performed directly by logic bit REFP [2].
Neutral Bus
III. AUTOTRANSFORMER ZERO-SEQUENCE FAULT
(K0P0)I0HF (1K0)I0HF
CURRENT DERIVATION
An important part of REF protection is having a reliable
Z0MS ZL Z0HS
zero-sequence source for polarizing current. For a two-
winding, delta-wye transformer, the current in the X0 (or H0)
P0I0HF K0I0HF
bushing is the only ground source available. An autotrans-
former with a delta-tertiary winding provides zero-sequence
ZM ZH I0HF
polarizing current in two locations:
Neutral of the transformer
Inside the delta-tertiary winding Fig. 6. Example System Zero-Sequence Network
This section describes the appropriate location in an
A derivation of these equations is provided in the
autotransformer to use a REF scheme polarizing quantity and
Appendix in Section VI. The current in the neutral and the
how the two currents are affected by changes in source and
current in the tertiary winding are different. Both are depend-
transformer impedances.
ent on the system impedance and transformer impedances.
Consider the example system in Fig. 5, with a ground fault
placed on the high-voltage (HV) system. The zero-sequence
currents present in the transformer neutral and tertiary
windings are given in (1) and (2), respectively.
 4

A simple example is used to illustrate how changing the 3I0H = 588 A

system impedance can affect the magnitude and direction of H
the currents. Consider the system in Fig. 5 with the system and 0.245 pu 3I0M = 561 A 3I0F = 1500 A
transformer impedances shown in Table I. The zero-sequence M
current in both the neutral and tertiary windings can be Z0MS ZL Z0HS
IT = 1864 A
L
calculated using (1) and (2). 0.469 pu
0.224 pu
TABLE I IN = 27 A
IMPEDANCE VALUES FOR CASE 1 FAULT CALCULATION ZM ZH I0 = 1.19 pu

Zero-Sequence Reactance
Circuit Component Fig. 7. Example System for Case 1 Fault Calculation
(in Per Unit, 100 MVA Base)
ZL 0.1377
Consider the same fault on the same transformer with the
same equivalent system impedance on the HV side. However,
ZM 0.0147
in this case, we use a lower equivalent system impedance on
ZH 0.0870 the autotransformer medium-voltage (MV) side. Using the
Z0MS 0.1653 impedance values in Table II, we can perform the same
calculations to determine the current in the neutral and
Z0HS 0.1034
tertiary.
Note that ZM is less than zero. This negative impedance is TABLE II
a result of the autotransformer mathematical representation as IMPEDANCE VALUES FOR CASE 2 FAULT CALCULATION
an equivalent wye set of impedances. Impedances for Zero-Sequence Reactance
Circuit Component
autotransformers are given typically as a percentage based on (in Per Unit, 100 MVA Base)
two windings connected in delta (e.g., ZML, ZHL, and ZHM). ZL 0.1377
To perform fault calculations, we must first convert these
impedances to an equivalent wye circuit consisting of three ZM 0.0147
impedances, ZL, ZM, and ZH. This conversion often results in ZH 0.0870
negative values for one of the three impedances, ZL, ZM, or Z0MS 0.0109
ZH. This does not imply that the capacitance between two
Z0HS 0.1034
windings is being modeled, but is a result of the autotrans-
former mathematical representation. The fact that one of the K 0 = 0.5544
impedances is negative makes the autotransformer circuit j0.1377 138
interesting, as we will see in the example calculation. I N = 3 (0.5544) (500) 1
Assume there is a single-line-to-ground fault on A-phase j0.1377 + j0.0109 j0.01476 69
with a fault current of 1500 amperes at the point of the fault. = 878 A
Substituting the values for impedances and total zero- j0.0109 j0.0147 138
IT = 3 (0.5544) (500)

sequence current into (1) and (2) yields: j0.1377 + j0.0109 j0.0147 3 13.2
j0.1034 = 142 A
K0 =
j0.1377( j0.1653 j0.0147)
j0.1034 + j0.0870 + Fig. 8 shows the current distribution throughout the
j0.1377 + j0.1653 j0.0147 equivalent zero-sequence network and the autotransformer
= 0.3942 terminals when the MV system impedance was lowered. Note
j0.1377 138 that the zero-sequence currents in the neutral and tertiary have
I N = 3 (0.3942) (500) 1
j0. 1377 + j0.1653 j0. 0147 69 changed direction for a fault at the same location on the
= 26.46 A system. Also, the zero-sequence current on the MV side is
larger (when expressed as per unit) than the current on the HV
j0.1653 j0.0147 138
IT = 3 (0.3942) (500)

side.
j0.1653 + j0.1377 j0.0147 3 13.2
3I0H = 828 A
= 1864 A
H
Fig. 7 shows the current distribution throughout the
0.019 pu 3I0M = 1703 A 3I0F = 1500 A
equivalent zero-sequence network and the autotransformer
M
terminals. Z0MS ZL Z0HS
IT = 142 A
L
0.679 pu 0.660 pu
IN = 875 A
ZM ZH I0 = 1.19 pu

Fig. 8. Example System for Case 2 Fault Calculation

 5

Even though both the neutral and tertiary currents changed IV. REAL-WORLD CASE EXAMPLE
direction, the relationship between their magnitudes is more In March 2006, a REF element on a 100 MVA
complex than applying a simple scaling factor. In Case 2, the autotransformer operated unexpectedly. The customer queried
current in the neutral was almost 6 times larger than the the REF element operation. This section analyzes the
current in the tertiary winding. In Case 1, the current in the unexpected operation and explains why the element operated.
tertiary was 69 times larger than the current in the neutral. The autotransformer includes a tertiary winding connected
When the system impedance was changed, both the neutral in delta. The voltage levels of the autotransformer are
and tertiary currents changed direction for a fault in the same 138/69/13 kV. The MV winding supplies a dual 69 kV bus.
physical location. This scenario creates a problem for either Fig. 10 is a sketch of the autotransformer and REF element
current as a directional element polarizing quantity. Perform configuration.
fault and system studies to determine the effect of realistic
138 kV Bus
system impedance changes on neutral and tertiary current
direction before using either current to polarize a ground
directional element [3] [4] [5]. SLG
In autotransformer REF protection, the operate quantity
Iop is not the residual current in one set of CTs but rather is Polarizing
the summation of the residual currents in the high-side and Current
low-side windings. Which current, neutral or tertiary, is the
correct quantity to use as a polarizing current for REF? REF
Fig. 9 gives a one-line representation of an autotransformer Operate
Element 32IF
13 kV Bus
with a fault on the high side. The operating current and neutral Current

polarizing current should be equal in magnitude and opposite
in phase for an external fault. This is the case for both systems 69 kV Bus
shown in Figs. 7 and 8, despite the fact that the neutral current
direction changed. This is not the case if the tertiary currents
shown in Figs. 7 and 8 are used as the polarizing current.
From the equation for 32I (shown in Fig. 3), we can see that
the cosine of 180 degrees is a negative value. A negative value
for 32I indicates a reverse or out-of-zone fault.
3I0H H Fig. 10. Autotransformer and REF Element Configuration
P
3I0F Fig. 11 is an oscillographic plot of the fault currents in
3I0M
M secondary amperes. This plot shows the fault current distribu-
tion in the autotransformer during what, at first, appeared to be
IRW2
an external double-line-to-ground fault on the 138 kV
IRW1 transmission system. The double-line-to-ground fault assump-
IN L tion was made because of the phase currents observed in
IRW4

Fig. 11.

IAW1 IBW1 ICW1 IAW2 IBW2 ICW2 IAW3 IBW3 ICW3 IAW4
2.5
CTR2
To REF Logic

IAW1 IBW1 ICW1

S = Iop 0.0
CTR1
-2.5
1
CTR4 Ipol
IAW2 IBW2 ICW2

Kirchoffs Law at Point P -1

3I0M 3I0H = IN 1
IAW3 IBW3 ICW3

IRW1 CTR1 + IRW2 CTR2 = IRW4 CTR4

0
Iop = Ipol
-1
Fig. 9. Relationship Between Iop and Ipol for Ideal External Fault on the
10
Autotransformer HV Side
IAW4

0
REF protection must use the neutral current as the -10
polarizing quantity not the tertiary current. Equations (1) and
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
(2) and the fault calculations summarized in Figs. 7 and 8 Cycles
illustrate that the tertiary current and neutral current are Fig. 11. Autotransformer Fault Current Oscillographic Plot
different, and one cannot be substituted for another as a
polarizing quantity for REF protection.
 6

Fig. 12 is an oscillographic plot of the currents and voltages the operation of the REF element was simulated to understand
in primary units of a nearby transmission line terminal that why the element operated.
observed the same fault. A quick observation of Fig. 12 Fig. 14 is a plot of the residual (zero-sequence) currents
indicates that the fault was a B-phase-to-ground fault (BG). present in the autotransformer HV and MV windings during
the fault. The autotransformer MV winding residual current is
IA IB IC IRMag VA VB VC VBMag
1000 simply the sum of the residual current in the two 69 kV
500 breakers.
IA IB IC IRMag

0 1000

-500

-1000
500

Amperes Primary
100
138_IG
VA VB VC VBMag

50 0

0 69_IG

500
-50

-100 1000
3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Cycles
Time (Cycles)
Fig. 12. Oscillographic Plot of Fault Currents and Voltages for a BG Fault at
a Nearby Transmission Line Terminal Fig. 14. Residual Current in Autotransformer HV and MV Windings

Analyzing the sequence currents shown in Fig. 13 for the Fig. 14 shows that the residual current in the HV winding
phase currents from the transformer relay in Fig. 11, we is approximately equal in magnitude but of opposite phase to
observe that the zero-sequence current phase angle leads the that in the MV winding. Fig. 15 is a plot of the sum of the HV
negative-sequence current by 120 degrees on all windings. and MV winding currents or the REF element operate current.
Fault identification and selection (FIDS) logic found in
100
commonly used microprocessor-based distance and directional
relays indicated that the fault was either a BG fault or a CAG
Amperes Primary

50
fault [6]. From this and the large B-phase fault current IRST_REF
observed in Fig. 12, we conclude that this was a 138 kV BG 0
fault.
200 50
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Time (Cycles)
100
Angle (Degrees)

Fig. 15. REF Element Operate Current Plot

0
In Fig. 15, the magnitude of the operate current in primary
amperes is a fraction of the residual current in the HV or MV
100
transformer windings.
200
Fig. 16 is a REF operate current plot obtained from the
0 2 4 6 8 10 tertiary autotransformer winding.
Time (Cycles)
2000
Fig. 13. Angle Difference Between Zero-Sequence and Negative-Sequence
Currents for Transformer Relay Winding One-Phase Currents in Fig. 11 1000
Amperes Primary

Next, we analyze the transformer fault currents from 0

IOP_REF
Fig. 11 by calculating the sequence components in each of the
windings. The positive- and negative-sequence components 1000

comply with the transformer transformation ratio, as expected. 2000

The sum of the MV (69 kV) winding zero-sequence currents is 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Time (Cycles)
roughly equal to the current on the HV (138 kV) winding, and
this does not abide by the transformation ratio. For all Fig. 16. REF Element Polarizing Current Plot
windings, however, the zero-sequence current angle leads the Plotting the REF element operate and polarizing current on
negative-sequence angle by roughly 120 degrees. This the same set of axes (Fig. 17) shows that the polarizing current
confirms that the fault type is BG. is much larger than the operate current. Effectively, we can
The sum of the residual HV and MV winding currents say that the operate current is nonexistent.
make up the REF operate current. The tertiary winding
(13 kV) current is used as the polarizing current. Using a
Mathcad file and data from the captured oscillographic data,
 7

2000 windings are electrically and magnetically coupled. In a

conventional delta-wye transformer, the windings are only
Amperes Primary
1000
magnetically coupled. This is the major difference between an
IRST_REF
0 autotransformer and a conventional transformer with respect
to the zero-sequence path.
IOP_REF
1000 Fig. 14 shows that the zero-sequence currents in the
autotransformer HV and MV windings had approximately the
2000
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 same magnitude and were 180 degrees out of phase.
Time (Cycles)
Overlaying this information on the one-line diagram in
Fig. 17. REF Element Operate and Restraint Current Plot Fig. 19, and using Kirchhoffs current law, observe that
Let us return our attention to the REF logic shown in almost no current flows in the autotransformer neutral. Stated
Fig. 3. AND 1 was added to handle the situation shown in another way, the zero-sequence current entering the MV
Fig. 18, whereby the grounded wye-connected winding of the winding exits the HV winding with no zero-sequence current
transformer is disconnected from the power system, but the contribution from the autotransformer neutral.
transformer is still connected to the power system via another 3IOHV
winding (a delta-connected winding). If a ground fault were to
develop on the wye-connected winding close to the neutral 5880
3IOMV
point, the phase differential element will not likely see the
fault. No current would exist in the phase CTs, but current 5610
would exist in the transformer neutral. AND 1 (in Fig. 3) was
IN 170
added to protect a transformer under these conditions.
a
Fig. 19. Autotransformer One-Line With Zero-Sequence Fault Currents
A
This case clearly demonstrates that for an autotransformer,
one should not use the current from the tertiary winding as the
Source B
b
REF element polarizing current. Instead, use the current in the
autotransformer neutral, as is the case in conventional
C c transformers. Fig. 20 shows the recommended REF element
Operate connection for this specific case.
Current
138 kV Bus
Polarizing
Current REF
Element
SLG
Fig. 18. Ground Fault on Wye Winding With Wye Line-End Open
Polarizing
Armed with the above information, look closely at the REF Current
element operation and reexamine the REF logic in Figs. 2
and 3. For the torque calculation to be enabled, the restraint
REF
and operate current magnitudes must be above the pickup Element 32IF
Operate
setting (50GP). Because the operate current is not above the 13 kV Bus
Current
pickup value, 50GC remains deasserted, and the torque
calculation remains disabled. However, because the polarizing 69 kV Bus
current is above the pickup threshold, AND 1 in Fig. 3 is
enabled and the REF element determines that the fault is
internal, having never checked the directional element deci-
sion. The REF element trips for the external BG fault.
So now we know why the REF element operated and our
first instinct may be to blame the REF algorithm for being
faulty. This is a good time to revisit the transformer theory
discussed in Section III. For a normal delta-wye power Fig. 20. Recommended Autotransformer REF Element Connection
transformer, if zero-sequence current flows in the delta wind- If the autotransformer REF element would have been
ing, then zero-sequence current must flow in the wye-winding configured as shown in Fig. 20, the polarizing and operate
neutral. However, this is not the case for an autotransformer current magnitude compared to the pickup threshold in
with a delta-connected tertiary winding. From (1) and (2) we primary amperes would have been as shown in Fig. 21b.
see that it is possible to have current in the delta tertiary Another interesting observation from Fig. 21a is that the
autotransformer winding and no current in the neutral. Unlike operate and polarizing currents would have been of equal
a normal transformer, the autotransformer HV and MV
 8

magnitude and of opposite phase angles. The REF element VI. APPENDIX: AUTOTRANSFORMER NEUTRAL AND TERTIARY
would have remained secure for the out-of-zone fault [7]. CURRENT DERIVATION EQUATION
120 A. Typical Datasheet
65
Amperes Primary

IRST_REF 10

IOP_REF 45
(IN)

100
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Time (Cycles)
(a)
Fig. A.1. Typical Autotransformer Transformer Datasheet
120
50GP
From the example transformer datasheet in Figure A.1, the
90
Amperes Primary

impedance values are typically given from one winding to

IRST_REF 60 another, or what is referred to as the network basis. The
impedance values are given in per unit with the MVA base
IOP_REF 30
(IN) specified for each different impedance value.
0
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
B. Equivalent Wye Circuit
Time (Cycles)
(b)
If the magnetizing impedance is neglected, the autotrans-
former can be represented by a set of three wye-connected
Fig. 21 Simulated Autotransformer REF Element Response With impedances [4]. The process for determining these imped-
Recommended REF Element Connection
ances is to select three pairs of terminals (e.g., H, M, and L),
and calculate the equivalent wye impedances. Figs. A.2.a and
V. CONCLUSIONS
A.2.b show the two system representations.
REF elements compare zero-sequence current in the
transformer neutral to zero-sequence current at the
L
terminals of wye-connected windings to determine if a H
ground fault is internal to the transformer wye windings. M
REF sensitivity to ground faults is better than the phase
differential element, especially at higher load currents. a) Phase Domain

The angle between zero- and negative-sequence currents

is a commonly used and reliable fault-type indicator.
As with any differential or directional application, phase L
angle measurement stability and current direction
predictability are critical to successful operation.
ZL
For a normal delta-wye transformer, if zero-sequence
current flows in the delta winding, then zero-sequence M H
current flows in the wye winding neutral. ZM ZH
In autotransformers with a delta-connected tertiary, it is b) Sequence Domain
possible to have zero-sequence current in the delta
Fig. A.2. a) One-Line Equivalent Phase Domain Circuit b) Sequence
winding and none in the neutral because of magnetic and
Domain Equivalent Circuit
electrical coupling between the HV and MV windings.
REF applications with autotransformers should use Recognizing that ZHL is the measured impedance when L is
neutral currents rather than delta-tertiary currents for the short-circuited and M is open-circuited and applying this
operate quantity. information to Fig. A.2.b, we deduce the following relation-
Relay data and event analysis are key to a better ships:
understanding of power system operations and improving Z HL = Z H + Z L (A.1)
reliability. ZHM = Z H + Z M (A.2)
Z ML = Z M + Z L (A.3)
 9

These three equations form a linear system of equations, H

(three equations and three unknowns), which can be solved M
using a variety of methods, yielding:
1
ZH = (ZHL + ZHM ZML ) (A.4)
2
1
ZM = (ZHM + ZML ZHL ) (A.5)
2
1
ZL = (ZML + ZHL ZHM ) (A.6) 3I0 ZN
2
It is important to note that because a term is subtracted,
often one of the three equivalent wye impedances is a negative a) Phase Domain Representation
value. This is a result of the mathematical representation of
the circuit and should not be interpreted to represent a VH
ZnH =
VM
capacitance in the autotransformer [5].
C. Accounting for Grounding Impedance
L
A common practice in some systems is to ground the H
M 3ZnH
autotransformer through an impedance. This impedance will
affect the zero-sequence representation of the autotransformer
OR
circuit. The equations for ZH, ZM, and ZL above did not
include this impedance.
S
The steps for deriving the equivalent circuit are shown in T
Fig. A.3. C 3ZnH
Consider our original wye-equivalent circuit for the
transformer shown in Fig. A.2.b; notice that there is no neutral b) Winding or Network Basis Representation
conductor shown. How do you modify the model to account
for the additional neutral impedance? Where does the
impedance get added? We must consider a different autotrans- L
former model. 3ZnH
Consider Fig. A.3.b, and define the following impedances: n
n1
ZS,TOT = ZS n
3ZnH ZL
ZC, TOT = ZC + 3 Z nH M H
ZM ZH
n1
ZT , TOT = Z T 2 3ZnH
n
In other words, the impedance seen at the S terminals is the c) Equivalent Zero-Sequence Network
leakage reactance of Winding S. The same is true for the T
terminals. However, for the C terminals, the impedance
consists of not only the leakage reactance of Winding C but L
also the neutral impedance. Representing the autotransformer

in terms of three different sets of Terminals S, C, and T is ZL
known as the winding basis and may be more convenient to M H
use when designing the transformer itself. However, repre-
ZM ZH
senting the autotransformer using a winding basis does not 1
translate well into fault calculations and system studies. Z 1 1 1 Z
n ML
L
Armed with this information, compute ZHL, ZML, and ZHM Z = 1 1 1 n 1 Z HL
1
using the circuit parameters ZS, ZT, and ZC. M 2 n ZHM
Z H
n 1 6Z



1 1 1 2 nH
n
d) Simplified Equivalent Zero-Sequence Network

Fig. A.3. Derivation of Sequence-Domain Equivalent Circuit With Neutral

Grounding Impedance Included
 10

We now recall that ZHL was the measured impedance when Vtest = (n 1)2 (ZS + ZC + 3 Z N ) I test (A.10)
a voltage (Vtest) is applied to the H terminals with the L
Vtest
= (n 1) (ZS + Z C + 3 Z N )
2
terminals short-circuited and the M terminals open-circuited, ZHM , act = (A.11)
as shown in Fig. A.4. I test
2
ZHM ,act n 1
(ZS + ZC + 3 Z N )
Itest
ZHM, baseC = = (A.12)
n2 n
Vtest Finally, it should be evident that:
Open 3ZN Z ML , baseC = ZC + Z T (A.13)
Fig. A.4. Test for Measuring ZHL We now have calculated the impedances ZHL,baseC, ZHM,baseC,
and ZML,baseC in equivalent ohms using a voltage base of VC.
It is important to note that ZHM, ZHL, and ZML are expressed
in per unit, whereas our circuit above is expressed in terms of However, a typical nameplate gives these values in terms of
volts and amperes. We will account for this by performing our per unit, not in ohms or equivalent ohms. So we can convert
by simply taking each impedance in equivalent ohms and
calculation in a common base. We will also assume that ZC,
ZS, and ZT are given as equivalent ohms or ohms at the dividing by the Zbase,C, yielding:
common base. This process is very similar to per unit. It ZC ZN
2 + 3
involves selecting a common MVA base just as per unit ZHL , baseC ZT n 1 ZS Z baseC ZbaseC
Z HL = = + +
calculations do; however, we will also select one voltage base ZbaseC ZbaseC n Z baseC n2
(A.14)
and convert all impedances to that voltage base regardless of
2
which transformer winding they are on. In order for our n 1 ZC, pu + 3 ZnH
= ZT , pu + ZS, pu +

common base model to avoid violating the laws of physics, n n2
we have to account for the turns ratio, just as if we had left the 2
quantities in terms of actual ohms. So we can define: Z HM , baseC n 1 ZS + ZC + 3 Z N

Z HM = =
VH VS + VC
Z baseC n Z baseC

n= = (A.15)
2
VM VC n 1
= (
ZS, pu + ZC, pu + 3 Z nH )
So: n

VS ZML, baseC ZC + ZT
= n 1 ZML = =
VC ZbaseC ZbaseC (A.16)
= ZC , pu + ZT , pu
Vtest is then calculated as:
Vtest = n 2 ZT I test + (n 1)2 ZS I test + (ZC + 3 Z N ) I test (A.7) where:
ZN
We can calculate ZHL,act: ZnH =
ZbaseC
Vtest
= n 2 ZT + (n 1) ZS + (ZC + 3 Z N )
2
Z HL,act = (A.8) We can take (A.14), (A.15), and (A.16) and substitute into
I test
(A.4), (A.5), and (A.6) to calculate ZH, ZM, and ZL.
If we choose the MV Winding M (or C) as our voltage base 2
and consider the transformer rating as a common MVA base n 1
ZH =
n 1 n 1
ZS, pu 2 ZC, pu 2 3 ZnH ( )
for all of our quantities, we can then convert ZHL from actual n n n (A.17)
ohms to equivalent ohms or ohms on voltage base M: n 1
= ZH 2 3 ZnH
2 n
ZHL,act n 1 Z + 3 Z
ZHL, baseC = = ZT + ZS + C 2 N (A.9)
n 2
n n n 1
ZM =
n
ZC, pu +
n
(
n 1
)
3 ZnH
Similarly, we can perform the same calculation for ZHL. (A.18)
n 1
= ZM + 3 ZnH
Itest n
0

Open
1 1
(
ZL = ZT, pu + ZC, pu + 3 ZnH
n n
)
Vtest (A.19)
3ZN 1
= ZL + 3 ZnH
n
Itest
Notice that (A.17), (A.18), and (A.19) match the equivalent
Fig. A.5. Test for Measuring ZHM wye network shown in Figure A.3.c.
 11

Alternatively, we can write (A.17), (A.18), (A.19) in a Fig. A.6.b, we can use a current divider to calculate the zero-
matrix form: sequence current on the autotransformer high side as follows:
1 Z0 HS
I 0 Hpu = I (A.21)
Z 1 1 1
n ZML Z (Z M + Z0 MS ) 0 HFpu
Z0 HS + Z H + L
L Z L + Z M + Z0 MS
Z = 1 1 1 n 1 ZHL
1 (A.20)
2
M
n ZHM Similarly, we can apply a current divider to obtain the
ZH
n 1
1 1 1 2 6ZnH current in the tertiary winding
n ZM + Z0 MS
I0 Lpu = I0 Hpu
D. Zero-Sequence Network Representation ZL + ZM + Z0 MS

Using the wye-equivalent circuit derived, we can draw an (A.22)

ZM + Z0 MS Z0 HS
equivalent-sequence network. To make our equivalent- = I
Z L + Z M + Z0 MS Z0 HS + Z H + ZL (ZM + Z0 MS )
0 HFpu
sequence networks general in nature, use an equivalent source
Z L + Z M + Z0 MS
for both systems on the MV and HV side.
Because our derivation is focused on zero-sequence current and on the MV side of the transformer.
in the neutral and tertiary, we are concerned with zero- ZL
I 0 Mpu = I 0 Hpu
sequence current and only the zero-sequence network is ZL + Z M + Z0 MS
drawn. (A.23)

The network can then be reduced and the total sequence ZL Z0 HS
= I
Z L + Z M + Z0 MS Z0 HS + Z H + Z L (Z M + Z 0 MS )
currents, positive, negative, and zero sequence, can be calcu- 0 HFpu
lated by connecting the sequence networks appropriately for Z L + Z M + Z 0 MS
the fault type. After calculating the total positive-, negative-, In order to simplify the expressions, we can define current
and zero-sequence currents at the point of fault, we examine distribution factors such that:
the contribution from each source or branch within the circuit,
I0Hpu = K 0 I0HFpu (A.24)
and this is the basis for deriving the current in the neutral and
tertiary branches. and
I0Mpu = P0 I0HFpu (A.25)
Neutral Bus
If we then look at the sequence diagram in Fig. A.6.b and
I0LS I0L
apply Kirchoffs law, then:
I 0 Lpu = (K 0 P0 ) I 0 HFpu (A.26)
Z0MS ZL Z0HS
Comparing (A.24) to (A.21) we can see that:
I0M I0H Z0 HS
K0 = (A.27)
Z (ZM + Z0 MS )
Z0 HS + ZH + L
ZM ZH ZL + ZM + Z0 MS
I0LF Then, by comparing (A.26) to (A.22):
a) Low-Side Fault


ZM + Z0 MS Z0 HS (A.28)
Neutral Bus K 0 P0 =
ZL + ZM + Z0 MS Z0 HS + ZH + ZL (ZM + Z0 MS )

I0L I0HS Z + Z + Z
L M 0 MS

Substituting for K0:

Z0MS ZL Z0HS
ZM + Z0 MS
K 0 P0 = K0
(A.29)
I0M I0H ZL + ZM + Z0 MS
Finally, comparing (A.25) to (A.23):
ZM ZH I0HF

ZL Z0 HS (A.30)
P0 =
b) High-Side Fault Z
L + Z + Z
0 MS
Z (Z + Z )
Z0 HS + ZH +
M L M 0 MS

Fig. A.6. Equivalent Zero-Sequence Network for a) A Ground Fault on the Z L + Z M + Z 0 MS
Autotransformer Low Side b) A Ground Fault on the Autotransformer High
Side Substituting,
Considering the external fault on the autotransformer high ZL
P0 = K0
(A.31)
side with the equivalent zero-sequence network shown in Z
L + Z M + Z 0 MS
 12

We can then express the tertiary current as: Substituting for P0 from (A.31):
ZM + Z0 MS ZL kV
I0 Lpu = K 0 I0 HFpu
(A.32) I N = 3 K 0 I 0 HF 3 K 0 I0 HF H (A.38)

ZL + ZM + Z0 MS Z
L + Z M + Z 0 MS kVM

This is given in per unit. It may be useful to consider the Finally, we can factor out the common terms and are left
values in actual amperes. If we use the total zero-sequence with:
current in amperes (I0HF) rather than in per unit (I0Hfpu) and ZL kVH
substitute into (A.32) we get: I N = 3 K 0 I0 HF 1
kV
(A.39)
Z + Z + Z
L M 0 MS M
ZM + Z0 MS I
I0 L = K 0 I0 HF base, LOW
(A.33) Thus the current in the neutral and tertiary for the high-side
Z
L + Z M + Z 0 MS I base, HIGH
fault are given in (A.39) and (A.35), respectively.
but For brevity, the current in the neutral and tertiary windings
I base, LOW kVH for the low-side fault are not included; however, the process is
= (A.34) similar. The equations for both cases are summarized in
I base, HIGH kVL
Table A-I.
Now consider that the zero-sequence current in the tertiary Fig. A.8 shows the zero-sequence diagrams for both cases
is trapped inside the delta. The base quantities for per-unit with the current distribution factors included.
calculation are line currents not delta currents. Taking this into
consideration and substituting into (A.33) we arrive at: Neutral Bus
ZM + Z0 MS kVH (S0 R0)I0LF
I0 L = K 0 I0 HF
(A.35) (1 S0)I0LF
Z
L + Z M + Z 0 MS kVL 3
Because the neutral current does not appear on the zero- Z0MS ZL Z0HS
sequence network diagram, we consider Fig. A.7 and apply
Kirchoffs Law to obtain the neutral current from 3I0H and S0I0LF R0I0LF

3I0M. Again, it is important to note that we are now dealing in

the phase domain and the values are in amperes not per unit. ZM ZH

3I0H a) Low-Side Fault

H
Neutral Bus
3I0M
(K0 P0)I0HF (1 K0)I0HF
M
IT
L Z0MS ZL Z0HS
IN
P0I0HF K0I0HF
Fig. A.7. Kirchoffs Law Applied to Autotransformer to Derive IN
ZM ZH I0HF
Applying Kirchoffs Law yields:
I N = 3I 0 H 3I 0 M (A.36) b) High-Side Fault
We have expressions for I0Hpu and I0Mpu given in (A.24) and Fig. A.8. Zero-Sequence Networks With Current Distribution Factors for a)
(A.25); however, they are in per unit and not amperes. A Ground Fault on the Autotransformer High Side and b) A Ground Fault on
Converting to amperes and substituting into (A.36) yields: the Fault Low Side

kVH
I N = 3 K 0 I0 HF 3 P0 I 0 HF (A.37)
kVM

TABLE A-I:
NEUTRAL AND TERTIARY CURRENTS FOR BOTH FAULTS ON THE AUTOTRANSFORMER HIGH SIDE AND LOW SIDE
Fault Location Neutral Current (Amperes) Tertiary Current (Amperes)
ZL kVH Z M + Z0 MS kVH
Autotransformer High Side I N = 3 K 0 I0 HF 1
kV
I0 L = K 0 I0 HF

+ +
Z L Z M Z 0 MS M Z L + Z M + Z0 MS kVL 3
ZL kVM ZH + Z0 HS kVM
Autotransformer Low Side I N = 3 S0 I0 LF 1

I0 L = S0 I0 LF

Z + Z + Z 0 HS kVH
Z + Z + Z kV
L H L H 0 HS L 3
 13

VII. ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
The authors gratefully acknowledge the contributions of
Bill Fleming, Armando Guzmn, Hctor Altuve, and Luis
Perez of Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories, Inc. for their
insight during the original event data analysis and
understanding of this topic. Shawn Jacobs of Oklahoma Gas
and Electric is greatly appreciated for sharing the real-world
event data that provided the basis for this technical paper.

VIII. REFERENCES
[1] D. Costello, Lessons Learned From Commissioning and Analyzing
Data From Transformer Differential Relay Installations, presented at
the 33rd Annual Western Protective Relay Conference, Spokane, WA.
[Online] Available: http://www.selinc.com/techpprs.htm.
[2] SEL-387-0, -5,-6 Instruction Manual, Schweitzer Engineering
Laboratories, Inc., Pullman, WA.
[Online] Available: http://www.selinc.com/instruction_manual.htm.
[3] Applied Protective Relaying, Westinghouse Electric Corporation,
[457] p. in various pages: ill.; 29 cm. Newark, N.J.: Westinghouse
Electric Corp., Relay-Instrument Division, 1976. TK 2861 A66 1976.
[4] Symmetrical Components, 1st Edition, C. F. Wagner and R. D. Evans,
1933, McGraw-Hill.
[5] Protective Relaying: Principles and Applications, 2nd Edition, J. Lewis
Blackburn, 1998, Marcel Dekker.
[6] E. O. Schweitzer, III and J. Roberts, Distance Relay Element Design,
presented at the 46th Annual Conference for Protective Relay Engineers,
Brazil. [Online] Available: http://www.selinc.com/techpprs.htm.
[7] C. Labuschagne and N. Fischer, Transformer Fault Analysis Using
Event Oscillography, presented at the 33rd Annual Western Protective
Relay Conference, Spokane, WA.

IX. BIOGRAPHIES
Normann Fischer received a Higher Diploma in Technology, with honors,
from Witwatersrand Technikon, Johannesburg in 1988, a BSc in Electrical
Engineering, with honors, from the University of Cape Town in 1993, and an
MSEE from the University of Idaho in 2005. He joined Eskom as a protection
technician in 1984 and was a senior design engineer in Eskoms Protection
Design Department for three years. He then joined IST Energy as a senior
design engineer in 1996. In 1999, he joined Schweitzer Engineering
Laboratories, Inc. as a power engineer in the Research and Development
Division. He was a registered professional engineer in South Africa and a
member of the South Africa Institute of Electrical Engineers.
Derrick Haas graduated from Texas A&M University in 2002 with a BSEE.
He worked as a distribution engineer at CenterPoint Energy in Houston, Texas
from 2002 to 2006. In April 2006, Derrick joined Schweitzer Engineering
Laboratories, Inc. and works as a field application engineer in Houston,
Texas.
David Costello graduated from Texas A&M University in 1991 with a BSEE.
He worked as a system protection engineer at Central Power and Light and
Central and Southwest Services in Texas and Oklahoma. He has served on the
System Protection Task Force for ERCOT. In 1996, David joined Schweitzer
Engineering Laboratories, Inc. where he has served as a field application
engineer and regional service manager. He presently holds the title of senior
application engineer and works in Boerne, Texas. He is a senior member of
IEEE and a member of the planning committee for the Conference for
Protective Relay Engineers at Texas A&M University.

Previously presented at the 2008 Texas A&M

Conference for Protective Relay Engineers.
2008, 2010 IEEE All rights reserved.
20100715 TP6279-01