Transformer Impedance affects fault current
Transformer Impedance affects fault current
How does changing a transformer's impedance during ordering change its construction? If impedance was not a concern (totally disregarded) during design and manufacturing, what would it typically come out to be for a given kva/MVA rating?
Transformer impedance affects fault current. It impacts the rating of Switchgear, MCC's, panels etc. It also impacts arc flash levels and motor starting. MCC's and Switchgear have mechanical bracing to keep them from breaking apart during a fault.
When buying a new transformer it is important to calculate fault current to make sure your MCC's and Switchgear can handle it. For a transformer with a secondary Full Load Amp (FLA) rating of 1,200 Amps and 5% impedance the calculation would look like the following: FLA x 100 / %impedance.
1,200 x 100 / 5 = 24,000A.
A lot of panels and MCC's are only rated for 8,000 - 12,000 Amps so it is a good rule of thumb to make sure the equipment that you specify has an Asymmetrical Fault current rating that is a least 20% higher than what you calculated.