Finite element analysis for calculation of total and distributed electromagnetic forces on power transformers windings arrangements

Part of power transformers failures are result of great electromagnetic forces acting on its windings due the circulation of high currents, as in case of short circuits. To contribute for a more reliable mechanical design, this paper presents a finite element analysis (FEA) for a complete calculation and evaluation of electromagnetic forces on transformers windings. Three arrangements of concentric windings are analyzed considering three-phase and three-dimensional models, dealing with issues as the influence of magnetic core window and lateral phases presence, ensuring more accurate results. The adopted modeling allows to determinate the total axial and radial forces on all the phases and its distribution over the height of windings and around the core leg. It was possible to identify points of greater and lesser forces and the behavior of forces on different constructive arrangements, allowing its choice improvement during the design stage. The results present good agreement to the analytical method, allowing the application of the developed FEA for transformer design optimization, contributing for a time and costs reduction and avoiding future mistakes in its construction and failures during its operation.