De-energized Tap Changer, Type DTUApplication, Installation & SelectionGuideIZUA 4643-210

2 ABB

ScopeThis leaflet contains general information about ordering andinstalling the type DTU de-energized tap changer. These in-structions do not describe all possible contingencies that mayarise during installation, operation, or maintenance of the tapchanger, nor does it describe all details and variations of theequipment. If you require additional information regarding thisinstallation and the operation or maintenance of your equip-ment, contact the local representative of ABB.

Safety DefinitionsSafety notations are intended to alert personnel of possiblepersonal injury, property damage, or even death. They havebeen inserted in this instructional text prior to the step in whichthe condition is cited.

The safety notations are headed by one of two hazard intensitylevels, which are defined as follows:

DANGER- immediate hazard that will result in severe personal injury, property damage, or death.

WARNING- hazard or unsafe practice that could result in personal injury, property damage, or death.

CAUTION- hazard or unsafe practice, which could result in minor personal injury, or property damage.

IntroductionThe type DTU de-energized tap changer is one of a family ofABB tap changers for power transformers. A de energizedtap changer is a switch, which is connected to the windingtaps of the transformer. When the tap changer is moved fromone position to another, the amount of the tap windingconnected into the circuit is changed. This permits theadjustment of the voltage ratio of the transformer to best suitthe voltage requirements at the transformer’s installation site.The de-energized tap changer is usually installed into the highvoltage circuit of the transformer and, most of the time, it isused to adjust the primary voltage of the transformer within a10 percent range in 5 steps.

D A N G E RThe type DTU tap changer is a de-energized tap changer,and therefore, is designed to be operated only whenthe transformer is completely de-energized. This typeof tap changer must not be operated when thetransformer is energized. Operation when thetransformer is energized is dangerous and could resultin serious injury to personnel and serious damage tothe transformer.

The type DTU tap changer is a modular, bridging-type (zig-zag) tap changer with external operating mechanism. It is

most commonly available as a 5-position device. A specialdesign of the type DTU tap changer is available which allowsit to be used as a 7 position tap changer.

The type DTU tap changer is made of individual tap decks(one or two on the same housing). The DTU is designed tobe mounted in the space between adjacent transformer coilsand to be held in place by an insulating framework, which isattached to the transformer superstructure. Figure 1 showsa typical DTU installation.

The ability to locate the type DTU tap changer in betweeneach phase coil, permits very direct tap lead routing with aminimum of bends.

Figure 2.

RatingsThe type DTU tap changer is available in one basiccurrent rating, and is offered with several differentelectrostatic shielding and insulation options (see page5). Table 1 presents the ratings.

Figure 1.

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Construction Details and Features

Basic InformationThe type DTU, de-energized tap changer is constructed fromfive major components:

1. Main Housing2. Sliding Rack3. Moving Contact4. Stationary Contacts5. Drive Shaft and External Operating Mechanism

Figure 3 shows the first four major components and somemounting details.

2. Sliding Rack

3. Moving Contact A ssembly

Upper Mountin gHo les (2)

Shaft Conne ctor

Drive Pinion (h idd en )

Linea r Gene va Gear

1. Ma in Housing

4. Stat ionaryContac ts (6)

Lower Mount ingHo les (2)

Figure 3. Major components of the DTU tap changer

1 See Figure 22 Based on a steady state contact temperature rise of 15˚C at a continuous current equal to 120% of rated current3 This is dependant also on how the DETC is applied to the transformer, e.g. distance to the tank wall and distance betweenphases. See also Electrostatic Shielding and Insulation (page 5)

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Main HousingThe main housing consists of two flat insulating plates fas-tened together with insulating bolts and spacers to form asandwich-like structure. The stationary contacts are boltedto the main housing at its upper end and the driving gearpinion and shaft connector are attached at its lower end. Themain housing contains two sets of holes which are used tobolt the tap changer to the transformer framework. The flatinsulating plates are machined from high strength, electricalgrade, low power factor Micarta™. This structure carries allof the mechanical loads created by the weight of the tap leadsand the thrust and weight of the drive shafts.

Sliding RackThe sliding rack rides in the space between the two main hous-ing plates. The moving contacts are attached to the slidingrack at its top end. The bottom end of the sliding rack ismachined into a linear Geneva gear which is moved verticallyby the rotary action of the drive pinion. One full turn of thedrive pinion moves the sliding rack from one set of stationarycontacts to the next. The sliding rack is machined from thesame Micarta™ material as the main housing plates.

ContactsThe stationary contacts are machined from 3/4 of an inch (19mm) copper bar stock. These contacts are bolted betweentwo Micarta™ plates of the main housing. Two bolts are usedfor each contact. The bolt heads and nuts are shielded withspecial toriodially shaped washers to minimize electrical stressconcentration. The connection between the stationarycontacts and the transformer’s tap leads is made using thestandard ABB UZ tap changer cable lug (see UZ technicalguide 1ZSE 5492-104). This lug accepts the tap cable into atubular recess; the cable can be held in place by either crimpingor brazing to the lug. The other end of the lug contains acaptive steel, M10 (0.40 inch) bolt with a hex recess. Thecable lug attaches to the stationary contact by means of thisbolt, which is threaded into a tapped cross-hole on the end ofthe stationary contact. The cable lug is available in severalsizes to suit the tap cable diameter.

The moving contact assembly is a clam shell type of contact;the spring loaded contact plates slide over the stationarycontacts. Each contact plate is made from silver plated copperflat stock. Two pairs of springs precisely control contactpressure. These springs are designed to interact with thecontact plates and the support structure to provide uniformand consistent contact pressure. The moving contactassembly also contains an external magnetic yoke. Thepurpose of this yoke is to generate additional compressionforces on the contact structure during high currents createdby through faults or surges. The combination of clam shellcontact and magnetic yoke creates a contact system whichgenerates large compression forces during faults, yet allowslighter contact forces during normal operation. This featurepermits the tap changer to have a relatively low driving torque

Driving SystemThe drive system consists of four parts:1. Linear Geneva gear2. Drive pinion3. Interphase shafts (insulating material)4. Main drive shaft and external mechanism

These parts are illustrated in figure 5.

Figure 4. Contact Structure

and high fault current withstand capability by preventingcontact bounce and arcing during faults.

The action of the sliding contact over the moving contactduring a tap change creates a good wiping action thatcleans contact surfaces. This wiping action insures asolid, low resistance electrical connection. Details of thecontact system can be seen in figure 4.

Cable Lug Captive Bolt

Tap Lead

Moving Contact Set

Stat ionary Contact

Magnetic Yoke

Figure 4 : Contact structure

1. Linea r Gene va Gear

2. Drive Pinionand Shaft

4. Spring LoadedTelescoping Drive Shaft & ExternalMechanism 3. Interphase Drive

Shaft

Figure 5. Drive System

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1. Unshielded decks are typically used for applications that have an impulse voltage withstand requirement of 250 kV or less.2. For applications that require an impulse voltage withstand

of 350 kV or less, a cast aluminum electrostatic shield ringis bolted to each end of the tap deck. The ring portion ofeach shield is insulated with layers of paper tape.

3. For applications requiring an impulse withstand greaterthan 350 kV and up to 650 kV, a pressboard box shieldis added to the tap deck. This box shield extendsbetween the upper and lower aluminum shield ring.

Figure 6. DTU tap deckwith no shielding

The linear Geneva gear is machined into the sliding rackthat carries the sliding contacts. The drive gear pinion isinstalled between the two main plates such that the drivepinion engages the linear Geneva gear.

The interphase shafts are steel tubes that are attached tothe drive pinion with a slotted cross pin connection. Bothends of each interphase shaft act as slip joint connections.The main drive shaft is a spring loaded, telescoping tubeassembly. This assembly connects the first tap deck drivepinion to the ball joint coupling on the inner end of theoperating mechanism.

The combination of slotted interphase shaft connections andspring loaded telescoping drive tube allows for minormisalignments between tap changer components andpermits the shafts and operating mechanism to adjust tothe dimensional changes that occur as the transformerresponds to temperature variations.

The operating mechanism uses a packing gland backed upby a secondary o-ring to form a redundant shaft seal betweenthe transformer and the atmosphere. The flange of theoperating mechanism is gasketed and bolted to a mountingboss which is welded to the transformer tank.

The external operating mechanism drives the tap changer’soperating shafts so that one complete revolution of theexternal handle indexes each tap deck one position. Thisone-turn-per-tap action allows the driving mechanism systemto absorb any backlash in the entire tap changer structureand still provide precise positioning of the tap changercontacts.

To make a tap change the operator must perform twoseparate actions:

1. Pull a fixing pin which frees the mechanism shaft2. Turn the operating handle 360 degrees

A number on a Geneva wheel that is visible through a view-port indicates the position number. A position number isonly fully visible when the tap changer is in position. Thefixing pin will not re-seat itself unless the tap changer is fixedon a position. Positive mechanical stops are built into thetap changing mechanism that will prevent turning past thelowest and highest positions. The external mechanism canbe padlocked in any position.

Electrostatic Shielding and InsulationElectrical spacing requirements between the tap decks andthe tank wall and between the tap decks and adjacentphases or other metallic objects is a complex subject. Whendesigning the transformer, required distances should becalculated between phases and between phase and groundfor the DTU. Three levels of shielding and insulation are avail-able for the tap decks.

Figure 7. DTU tap deck with shielding options

Pressboard BoxShield

Aluminum Shie ldRing

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Configuration A

Configuration B

Configuration C

Standard ConfigurationsThe type DTU tap changer is built in three standardconfigurations based on vertical tap decks. The operatingmechanism may be ordered for mounting on either the left orright hand side of the tap decks. An ordering data sheet isprovided to permit the customer to specify configuration,mechanism location, critical spacing dimensions, and crimplug sizes.

Configuration A: One vertically mounted, single tap deckand one vertically mounted double tap deck (three tap deckstotal). The two vertical units are connected by an interphasedrive shaft. One of the vertical decks is also connected to theexternal operating mechanism.

Configuration B: Three vertically mounted single tap decks(three tap decks total). The vertical units are connectedtogether by interphase shafts (two). One of the vertical decksis also connected to the external operating mechanism.

Configuration C: Three vertically mounted double tap decks(six tap decks total). The vertical units are connected togetherby interphase shafts (two). One of the vertical decks is alsoconnected to the external operating mechanism.

These configurations are shown in figure 9.

Left: DTU tap changer with no shieldingRight: DTU tap changer with aluminum ringshields

Above: DTU tap changer with aluminum ringshields and pressboard box

Figure 9. Standard configurations forDTU tap changer

Figure 8. DTU tap deck shielding options

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Installation and Mounting

Inspection Upon Receiving• Check for visible damage.• All DTU tap changers are shipped with moving

contacts in the same position. Please check to verifythat the moving contacts are indeed in the sameposition before continuing.

• Verify that the shipment is complete and contains allcomponents ordered.

• Check that the type designation and shop ordernumber agree with the delivery documents (i.e. thepacking list or ABB’s ordering acknowledgement). Theshop order number is stamped on the rating plate.

Required Tools and MaterialsOnly Standard tools are required.

Pre-Installation Work Required by Customer• Make the appropriate size hole in the transformer tank

according to the dimensions shown in the tap changeroutline drawing.

• Weld mounting boss (not supplied by ABB) to thetransformer wall. This weld must be gas tight.

• Prepare the superstructure with holes for theassembly of each DTU deck.

The DTU is usually mounted vertically, parallel to the windings,.The information that follows is intended for this type of instal-lation. If some other orientation is being considered, pleaseconsult ABB.

The type DTU tap changer requires a supportstructure constructed of appropriate insulatingmaterials to secure the tap changer decks vertically.This structure, which is part of the transformer design,usually also supports the HV cleats and leads.Clearance must be provided for the tap changer shaftoperating system that is located at the lower end ofthe deck frames.

Refer to the DTU dimension drawings for completemounting details.

Installation of tap changer decks:1. Make sure that all decks are in the same position.

Figure 10. DTU double tap decks

Unshielded double tap deck

Double tap deck with aluminum ring shields

2. Install the first deck with fiber bolts through thetwo mounting holes at the top and bottom ends.

3. To mount the second deck, insert one fiber boltat the top to loosely hold it in place.

4. Install the operating shaft between the first andsecond decks by inserting the slotted ends ontothe drive pinions located at the lower end of thetwo decks. No drilling or pinning is required.Install the remaining fiber bolts and tighten.

5. Repeat this process for the third deck.

6. To confirm that the installation has been donecorrectly, turn the operating shaft and observethe movement of the bridging contacts. All threephases should move together smoothly from oneend to the other.

7. The operating shaft between the outside deck,left or right end depending on what was ordered,and the external operating mechanism is installedafter the active part has been installed in the tank.This shaft is spring loaded to provide someflexibility in the length to compensate for theexpansion and contraction of the transformer tankduring operation.

8. Connecting tap leads:

Cut tap leads to the correct length for connectionto the appropriate tap changer terminal. Crimpthe supplied connectors to the tap leads.Connect the tap leads to the correct tap changerterminal.

9. Installation Tip:

To ease the installation of the tap changer, it isrecommended to make up a replica of the tapchanger and the connection points. This replicacan be installed in the place of the tap changerdeck plates, allowing the tap leads and insulationto be cut to the proper length and installed withoutrisk of damaging the tap changer. After the tapleads have been fully assembled on the replica,undo the connectors, remove the replica and theninstall the tap changer in its place.

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External Mounting BossAn external mounting boss must be fabricated and welded tothe transformer tank in order to seat the operating mecha-nism. This mounting boss may be purchased from ABB ifdesired.

Processing TemperaturesThe type DTU tap changer is designed to operate properly inthe transformer environment. However, the transformer manu-facturer must not thermally over-stress the tap changer dur-ing transformer manufacturing and processing. The maxi-mum temperature that the DTU tap changer can be exposedto during transformer manufacturing is 125°C. If the tapchanger will be exposed to temperatures greater than 125°Cduring manufacture, ABB should be consulted for technicalguidance. Processing within the temperature range of 105°Cto 125°C should not exceed 48 hours total exposure time.

Renewal PartsIf renewal parts are required, order them through the nearestABB Inc. representative. Please provide the item descriptionand the identification numbers (model, style, catalog) fromthe unit’s nameplate.

RepairsIn normal use, the DTU tap changer will not require repairs.We recommend that the transformer manufacturer becontacted before any repairs are made.

MaintenanceABB de-energized tap changers require little or no mainte-nance to ensure proper mechanical and electrical operation ofthe switch. The transformer should be de-energized beforeoperating the tap changer. The external operating mechanismshould be inspected for any damage and gears should belubricated to ensure proper operation. Operate the tap changeracross its full range a minimum of twenty times to assure propermechanical operation and cleaning of the contacts. The aboveshould be performed if the position of the switch is changedfor any reason.

W A R N I N GBEFORE ATTEMPTING ANY DISASSEMBLY OR RE-PAIRS, DE-ENERGIZE THE TRANSFORMER AND THEAUXILIARY POWER SOURCE. FAILURE TO DO SOCOULD RESULT IN PERSONAL INJURY, PROPERTYDAMAGE, OR DEATH.

Technical SupportIf a technical question arises regarding the product detailed inthis Technical Product Literature contact customer service atthe address below.

CommentsABB Inc. continually strives to make its instruction literaturecurrent, accurate, and easy to understand. Suggestions toimprove this document may be sent to: Literature Coordinatorfax (731) 696-5269 or use the mailing address below. For areply, please include name, company, phone number, and/orfax number.

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Notes

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Notes

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Notes

DISCLAIMER OF WARRANTIESAND LIMITATION OF LIABILITY

THERE ARE NO UNDERSTANDINGS, AGREEMENTS,REPRESENTATIONS OR WARRANTIES, EXPRESSEDOR IMPLIED, INCLUDING WARRANTIES OFMERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULARPURPOSE OTHER THAN THOSE SPECIFICALLY SETOUT BY AN EXISTING CONTRACT BETWEEN THEPARTIES. ANY SUCH CONTRACT STATES THE ENTIREOBLIGATION OF SELLER. THE CONTENTS OF THISDOCUMENT SHALL NOT BECOME PART OF ORMODIFY ANY PRIOR OR EXISTING AGREEMENT,COMMITMENT OR RELATIONSHIP.

THE INFORMATION, RECOMMENDATIONS, DESCRIP-TION AND SAFETY NOTATIONS IN THIS DOCUMENT AREBASED ON OUR EXPERIENCE AND JUDGEMENT. THISINFORMATION SHOULD NOT BE CONSIDERED TO BEALL INCLUSIVE OR COVERING ALL CONTINGENCIES.IF FURTHER INFORMATION IS REQUIRED, ABB INC.SHOULD BE CONSULTED.

NO WARRANTIES, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, INCLUDINGWARRANTIES OF FITNESS FOR A PARTICULARPURPOSE OR MERCHANTABILITY, OR WARRANTIESARISING FROM COURSE OF DEALING OR USAGE OFTRADE, ARE MADE REGARDING THE INFORMATION,RECOMMENDATIONS, DESCRIPTIONS, AND SAFETYNOTATIONS CONTAINED HEREIN. IN NO EVENT WILLABB INC. BE RESPONSIBLE TO THE USER IN CON-TRACT, IN TORT (INCLUDING NEGLIGENCE), STRICT LI-ABILITY OR OTHERWISE FOR ANY SPECIAL, INDIRECT,INCIDENTAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGE OR LOSSWHATSOEVER INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO DAM-AGE TO OR LOSS OR USE OF EQUIPMENT, PLANT ORPOWER SYSTEM, COST OF CAPITAL, LOSS OF PROF-ITS OR REVENUES, COST OF REPLACEMENT POWER,ADDITIONAL EXPENSES IN THE USE OF EXISTINGPOWER FACILITIES, OR CLAIMS AGAINST THE USER BYITS CUSTOMERS RESULTING FROM THE USE OF THEINFORMATION, RECOMMENDATIONS, DESCRIPTION,AND SAFETY NOTATIONS CONTAINED HEREIN.

ABB Inc.1128 S. Cavalier DriveAlamo, TN 38001, USATelephone: 731-696-5561Fax: 731-696-5269www.abb.com/electricalcomponents

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