Analysis of Failure Rate Due to Transformer Loadings of Commonly Used Transformers in Porac Substation
Abstract
Electricity plays a vital role in the modern world, and secure distribution to end-users heavily relies on distribution transformers. Designed to last up to 30 years, transformers often suffer from early failure due to factors like moisture, equipment mishaps, and especially overloading. This study focuses on Pampanga II Electric Cooperative, specifically Feeder 4 of the Pio Substation in Porac, Pampanga. Feeder 4 serves over 8,400 residential consumers and operates 100 Commonly Used distribution transformers. The study assessed and identified transformer failure causes and rates of occurrence, categorize loading conditions and examined their relation using 2023–2024 data through a quantitative approach. Of the 100 units, 34 failures occurred in the said period. Causes such as the overloading and equipment failure show that most transformers are categorized as overloaded. In summary, overloading transformers significantly contributes to failures within the Pampanga II Electric Cooperative system. The findings imply the need for better management of transformer loads. The optimal loading conditions increase efficiency and extend their lifespan, which in turn reduces power outages and maintenance costs. This situation benefits both utilities and consumers, as it ensures a more stable and reliable power supply.
Keywords
Analysis, Failure Rate, Commonly-Used Distribution Transformer, Transformer Loading, Transformer Failrue
References
- [1] G. Liang, S. Li, R. Liu, J. Cao, and W. Chen, “A Probabilistic Maintenance Scheme Evaluation Method for Transformer Based on Failure Rate,” 2017 4th International Conference on Information Science and Control Engineering (ICISCE), pp. 90–93, Jul. 2017, doi: https://doi.org/10.1109/ICISCE.2017.29.
- [2] R. Gomez Jr., E. Santos, A. Tolentino, E. Bulanan, and N. Florencondia, “Electrical Loading Assessment of Commonly Used Transformers for Feeder 21 of Pampanga Distribution Utility,” International Journal of Engineering and Advanced Technology, vol. 9, no. 2, pp. 1391–1397, Dec. 2019, doi: https://doi.org/10.35940/ijeat.b2694.129219.
- [3] J. Wang, W. Sheng, L. Wang, and H. Yang, “Study on technical and economical efficiency of amorphous alloy transformer and on-load capacity regulating transformer in distribution network application,” China International Conference on Electric Distribution, Sep. 2014, doi: https://doi.org/10.1109/ciced.2014.6991657.
- [4] B. Behi, A. Arefi, H. Pezeshki, and F. Shahnia, “Distribution transformer lifetime analysis in the presence of demand response and rooftop PV integration,” Renewable Energy and Environmental Sustainability, vol. 2, p. 27, 2017, doi: https://doi.org/10.1051/rees/2017013.
- [5] Afzal, R., Jan, S. T., & Khan, A. Z. (2015). Transformer Failures, Causes & Impact. International Conference Data Mining, Civil and Mechanical Engineering (ICDMCME’2015). https://doi.org/10.15242/iie.e0215039 [6] H. Amadi and F. Izuegbunam, “Analysis of Transformer Loadings and Failure Rate in Onitsha Electricity Distribution Network,” American Journal of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, vol. 4, no. 6, pp. 157–163, Dec. 2016, doi: https://doi.org/10.12691/ajeee-4-6-2.
- [7] T. Benadum, “Guide to Transformer Failures | ELSCO Transformers,” ELSCO, Sep. 09, 2024. https://elscotransformers.com/blog/guide-to-transformer-failure/
- [8] Hernandez, R. D., Hancock, B., & Salmeron, M. (2022). Lessons Learned from Analysis of Power Transformer Failure Rates. 2022 IEEE 40th Central America and Panama Convention (CONCAPAN), 1–6. https://doi.org/10.1109/concapan48024.2022.9997796
- [9] Zope, S., & Zope, N. (2025). Unveiling Transformer Failures: Insights from Utilities Repaired Transformers and Their Revival. International Journal of Innovative Research in Engineering & Management, 12(1), 52–59. https://doi.org/10.55524/ijirem.2025.12.1.8
- [10] M. Systems (2024). Makpower Trans-Systems Pvt. Ltd, Electric Transformer Manufacturer, 3 phase transformers. Makpower Transformers. https://www.makpowerts.com/transformer-failure-causes
- [11] A. Pasricha, (2015). "A Study into improving Transformer Loading Capability beyond Nameplate Rating". Masters Theses. Missouri University of Science and Technology, Missouri. Philippine Power Statistic | Department of Energy Philippines. (2023). Doe.gov.ph. https://doe.gov.ph/energy-statistics/philippine-power-statistics
