A comparative study of J–A and Preisach improved models for core loss calculation under DC bias

Abstract Power transformer is widely used in the power system with the rapid development of the power converters connected to the grid. When a transformer operates under DC bias conditions, its iron core loss increases significantly, causing local overheating and threatening the proper operation of the transformer. However, there are persistent difficulties in accurately assessing the core loss when the induction waveform is influenced by a DC bias. This paper first proposes improvements to the J–A and Preisach models to evaluate the core loss of the iron core under DC bias. Additionally, we incorporate the hysteresis models into the finite element method (FEM) by modifying the fundamental constitutive equations in the FEM model in order to perform a precise core loss/distribution calculation. To verify the accuracy of prediction, a transformer prototype with a laminated core is developed. The improved J–A-FEM and Preisach-FEM models were directly compared in terms of calculation accuracy, numerical implementation, and computational burden.