What is the difference between a generator transformer and a power transformer?

Although both generator transformers and power transformers are used to step up or step down voltage in electrical systems, they serve distinct roles in the power generation and transmission process. Understanding the differences between the two helps ensure proper selection and efficient operation within the grid.


What Is a Generator Transformer and Where Is It Used?

Generator transformers—often referred to as step-up transformers—play a pivotal role at the interface between power generation and transmission systems. These high-capacity transformers are essential in converting electricity generated at medium voltage levels (11–25 kV) to high transmission voltages (up to 400 kV or more), making long-distance power delivery efficient and technically feasible. Without generator transformers, massive amounts of power produced in power plants could never travel efficiently through transmission grids to reach end users.

A generator transformer is a type of power transformer installed at power generation facilities to step up the voltage from the generator output (typically 11–25 kV) to high transmission levels (typically 132 kV, 220 kV, or 400 kV). It is used between the generator terminals and the grid switchyard to enable efficient high-voltage power transmission.

Generator transformers are mission-critical assets in thermal, hydro, nuclear, and renewable power stations.

A generator transformer is used to step up voltage from generator output to transmission levels.True

Generator transformers connect the power plant’s medium-voltage generator output to the high-voltage grid infrastructure.

Generator transformers are used to directly supply low-voltage appliances from the generator.False

Generator transformers step up voltage for transmission, not down for consumption—they are not used for household or low-voltage distribution.


1. Typical Electrical Parameters

Specification Typical Range
Generator output voltage 11 kV – 25 kV
Step-up transformer output 110 kV – 765 kV
Power rating 50 MVA – 1200+ MVA
Frequency 50 Hz or 60 Hz (based on region)

Generator transformers are among the highest-rated and most robust transformers in the grid.


2. Where Are Generator Transformers Installed?

Power Source Installation Site Purpose
Thermal Power Plant Between generator and GIS/switchyard Transfers power to high-voltage transmission
Hydroelectric Plant Inside or near turbine house Steps up voltage to evacuate generated power
Nuclear Power Station Close to reactor generator Critical for secure grid connection
Wind Farm Collection Yard After multiple turbines feed into MV bus Boosts voltage before grid interconnect
Solar Power Plant After inverter or centralized transformer Raises voltage from \~690 V to 33–132 kV

Placement depends on plant design, cooling method, and safety protocols.


3. Key Design Features of Generator Transformers

Feature Function and Benefit
On-load tap changers (OLTC) Fine voltage control during grid fluctuations
Double-winding or three-winding design May include auxiliary station service winding
Robust insulation Handles generator surge and transient voltages
High short-circuit withstand Withstands generator faults and switchyard events
Cooling systems (OFAF/ODAF) Supports large continuous thermal load

Generator transformers are built for thermal stability, overload resilience, and grid compliance.


4. Why Generator Transformers Are Critical

Reason Explanation
Voltage adaptation Matches generator voltage to grid requirements
System reliability Filters transients, isolates plant faults
Load dispatch capability Enables bulk power transfer to remote regions
Grid code compliance Ensures reactive power, tap range, and grounding standards

They serve as the electrical gatekeeper between the power station and the grid.


5. Comparison: Generator Transformer vs. Power Transformer

Aspect Generator Transformer General Power Transformer
Voltage input 11–25 kV (generator) 33–400 kV (transmission/distribution)
Voltage output 110–765 kV 33–132 kV, or down to 11 kV
Installation Inside or near generation plant Substations, grid nodes
Usage cycle Continuous, high-load duty Varies; may serve step-down or interconnection
Cooling system Always advanced (ODAF/OFAF) May be simpler (ONAN, ONAF, OFAF)

Generator transformers are more specialized and customized than general grid transformers.


Summary Table: Generator Transformer Overview

Parameter Description
Function Steps up generator voltage for transmission
Typical input/output 11–25 kV → 132–400+ kV
Installed at Power plants (thermal, hydro, solar, wind)
Capacity 50 MVA – 1200+ MVA
Cooling method OFAF, ODAF, OFWF
Key features OLTC, surge protection, high dielectric
Critical role Enables grid integration and long-distance power transfer

What Is a Power Transformer and What Is Its Role in the Grid?

The modern electrical grid is a marvel of interconnected systems that must operate efficiently, reliably, and safely. At the heart of this complex infrastructure are power transformers—the unsung heroes that make it possible to transmit electricity over long distances, balance loads, and regulate voltage levels. Without power transformers, the high-voltage transmission and distribution of electricity would be inefficient, unstable, and dangerous.

A power transformer is a high-capacity electrical device used to change voltage levels between different parts of the power grid—typically from generation-level voltages to transmission or distribution voltages. Its primary role is to enable efficient long-distance transmission by stepping up voltage to reduce losses, or stepping down voltage for safe delivery to substations, industrial zones, or other infrastructure.

Power transformers are essential in transmission and sub-transmission networks, acting as critical voltage control nodes.

Power transformers are essential for voltage conversion in the transmission network of the power grid.True

They step up voltage for efficient power transmission and step down voltage for safe distribution to utilities and consumers.

Power transformers directly power residential homes at 220 volts.False

Power transformers operate at high voltages and supply substations; homes are served by smaller distribution transformers.


1. What Is a Power Transformer?

Characteristic Details
Voltage rating Typically 66 kV – 765 kV
Power rating 5 MVA to 1500+ MVA
Core design Core-type or shell-type with high-grade laminations
Function Voltage transformation without changing frequency
Cooling methods OFAF, ODAF, ONAN, ONAF
Installation environment Substations, transmission switchyards, power plants

Power transformers are stationary, oil-immersed, high-voltage devices that require rigorous design and testing.


2. Role in the Power Grid

Grid Segment Transformer Function
Generation Plant Steps up voltage from generator (11–25 kV) to transmission level (132–400 kV)
Transmission Substation Interconnects transmission networks and regions
Receiving Substation Steps down voltage (e.g., 400 kV → 132 kV or 220 kV) for sub-transmission
Industrial Substation Further steps down voltage (e.g., 132 kV → 33 kV or 11 kV) for internal use

Power transformers are used where power must be moved at scale, safely and efficiently.


3. Technical Function and Benefits

Function Grid Benefit
Voltage step-up/down Matches transmission and distribution requirements
Impedance balancing Reduces circulating currents and stabilizes load flow
Fault isolation (with protection systems) Limits fault spread across networks
Load sharing and parallel operation Enhances redundancy and capacity management
Tap changing Enables voltage regulation under varying load conditions

Power transformers improve grid flexibility, safety, and power quality.


4. Comparison: Power vs. Distribution Transformer

Aspect Power Transformer Distribution Transformer
Voltage range High voltage (66–765 kV) Low to medium voltage (11 kV to 400 V)
Application Generation and transmission substations End-user voltage adaptation
Capacity Typically 5–1500 MVA Typically 25 kVA to 2.5 MVA
Load profile Operates near full load constantly Variable load, partial capacity often used
Installation Outdoor, substation-grade Pole-mounted, pad-mounted, or indoor

Power transformers are larger, more robust, and high-voltage-rated for grid-level use.


5. Typical Power Transformer Ratings by Voltage Level

Voltage Level Typical Transformer Size (MVA) Application
66 kV 5–40 MVA Local industrial or urban substation
110 kV / 132 kV 40–160 MVA Regional transmission
220 kV 160–315 MVA Inter-regional transmission
400 kV / 500 kV 315–800 MVA Bulk power transfer
765 kV 1000–1500+ MVA National grid backbones

Higher voltages allow greater efficiency and lower line losses in long-distance transmission.


Summary Table: Power Transformer Overview

Parameter Description
Purpose Voltage transformation for transmission systems
Voltage range 66 kV – 765 kV
Power rating 5 – 1500+ MVA
Grid location Generation, transmission, and receiving substations
Design features OLTCs, cooling radiators, high dielectric strength
Cooling system ONAN, ONAF, OFAF, ODAF
Construction Oil-immersed, sealed tank, bushings, surge protection

How Do Power Transformers’ Voltage Levels and Design Parameters Differ?

Power transformers are not all built alike. Their design—particularly voltage rating, insulation system, core geometry, and cooling configuration—varies significantly based on where they are used in the grid. These differences are driven by application: whether the transformer is stepping up voltage at a generation station, interconnecting grids, or stepping down at a regional substation. As voltage levels rise, so do the engineering challenges and physical requirements, including creepage distance, insulation strength, cooling intensity, and size.

Power transformers differ in voltage levels and design parameters according to their role in the grid. Transformers rated from 66 kV to 765 kV require increasingly robust insulation, larger cores, more complex winding arrangements, enhanced cooling systems, and greater mechanical strength. These parameters directly influence their physical size, cost, and performance in the transmission network.

Design precision and voltage capability are key to safe, efficient grid operation.

Power transformers with higher voltage ratings require more insulation, larger cores, and advanced cooling systems.True

As voltage increases, electrical stress rises, necessitating greater dielectric strength, thermal management, and structural reinforcement.

All power transformers share the same design regardless of voltage class.False

Transformer design changes significantly with voltage class to meet insulation, cooling, and performance requirements.


1. Voltage Classification and Design Implications

Voltage Class Range Grid Role
Medium Voltage (MV) >1 kV – 35 kV Primary distribution transformers
High Voltage (HV) >35 kV – 230 kV Transmission substations, regional grids
Extra-High Voltage (EHV) >230 kV – 500 kV Bulk power transmission
Ultra-High Voltage (UHV) >500 kV – 1200 kV National backbone, long-distance transfer

Higher voltage classes demand sophisticated insulation, greater clearances, and stricter testing protocols.


2. Insulation System Design

Voltage Rating Insulation Medium Insulation Design Features
66–132 kV Oil-paper (cellulose) Simple radial clearances, basic pressboard support
220–400 kV Multi-layer oil-paper, extended creepage Graded insulation, capacitive bushings, foil shields
500–765 kV Advanced oil-paper, resin, SF₆ shielding Gas-filled barriers, large axial clearances, disc windings

Higher voltages increase dielectric stress, requiring graded insulation systems and capacitive field control.


3. Core and Winding Configuration

Voltage Class Core Type Winding Construction
<132 kV Core-type, two-limb Layer windings, low turn voltage
220–400 kV Three-limb or shell-type Helical or disc windings, high axial support
500–765 kV Three-limb, stacked core Interleaved discs, interleaving for stress balance

Winding design ensures mechanical rigidity and voltage uniformity under short-circuit conditions.


4. Cooling and Thermal Management

Rating Cooling System Used Why It’s Needed
≤66 kV ONAN (Oil Natural Air Natural) Natural convection adequate for low losses
132–220 kV ONAF (Oil Natural Air Forced), OFAF Requires fans or pumps to remove heat
400–765 kV OFAF, ODAF, OFWF Advanced cooling with directed oil and forced air/water

Heat from copper losses and core flux must be dissipated to avoid insulation failure.


5. Bushing and Terminal Design

Voltage Rating Bushing Type Design Challenge
≤132 kV Porcelain or epoxy resin Manage surface discharge
220–400 kV Condenser-type, oil-filled bushings Manage internal capacitive stress
>500 kV SF₆ or hybrid gas-insulated bushings Prevent flashover, external surge isolation

Bushings are high-voltage portals—their design must withstand environmental and transient stress.


6. Size, Weight, and Logistics

Voltage Level Typical Mass Transportation Requirements
66–132 kV 10–50 tons Trailer-based transport
220–400 kV 80–180 tons Heavy-lift, crane, modular transport
500–765 kV 200–400+ tons Custom shipping, rail or barge logistics

Large transformers must be factory-tested, disassembled, and reassembled on site, especially at EHV levels.


7. Testing Standards by Voltage Class

Voltage Range Tests Required Standard Bodies
All classes Ratio, insulation resistance, short-circuit withstand IEC 60076, IEEE C57
>132 kV Lightning impulse, switching impulse, heat run test Type tested at factory
>400 kV Full-wave lightning impulse with front-of-wave test Often custom per project

Testing ensures the transformer can withstand grid faults, voltage surges, and thermal stress.


Summary Table: Voltage Level vs. Design Parameters

Voltage Class Core/Winding Complexity Insulation Type Cooling Method Bushing Type Weight Range
66–132 kV Moderate Oil-paper basic ONAN/ONAF Porcelain 10–50 tons
220–400 kV High Layered oil-paper, graded OFAF/ODAF Condenser-type 80–200 tons
500–765 kV Very high Gas barrier, advanced foils OFWF, ODAF SF₆, GIS bushings 200–400+ tons

What Are the Key Differences in Cooling and Loading Profiles of Power Transformers?

Power transformers are engineered not only to handle specific voltages and MVA ratings but also to manage thermal stress under varying electrical loads. That’s why transformer cooling systems—ONAN, ONAF, OFAF, ODAF, and OFWF—are designed to match the transformer's loading profile. The interplay between cooling method and loading behavior affects operational safety, lifespan, efficiency, and planning for overload conditions. Choosing the wrong combination can lead to overheating, accelerated insulation aging, or even failure.

Cooling and loading profiles differ based on transformer cooling method: ONAN systems rely solely on natural oil and air convection and support only up to 100% base loading, while forced systems like ONAF, OFAF, and ODAF increase the transformer’s capacity by actively removing heat. As cooling improves, transformers can carry higher loads—temporarily or continuously—without violating temperature limits.

This relationship defines how transformers perform under real-world grid demand conditions.

Transformer cooling method directly impacts its permissible loading capacity.True

Cooling systems such as ONAF or OFAF allow for higher continuous or emergency loading due to more effective heat dissipation.

Cooling systems do not influence transformer loading capacity.False

Thermal limitations define how much load a transformer can handle safely; cooling method is key to controlling temperature rise.


1. Transformer Cooling Methods Explained

Cooling Type Full Form Mechanism
ONAN Oil Natural Air Natural Natural oil circulation and ambient air convection
ONAF Oil Natural Air Forced Natural oil flow, enhanced by air fans
OFAF Oil Forced Air Forced Oil pumped and air blown through radiators
ODAF Oil Directed Air Forced Directed oil jets through windings, with forced air cooling
OFWF Oil Forced Water Forced Oil cooled by water heat exchangers (often in compact substations)

As cooling intensity increases, transformer heat dissipation and loading capacity increase proportionally.


2. Loading Profile by Cooling Class

Cooling Class Base Load Capacity Extended Loading Capacity Usage Example
ONAN 100% (rated MVA) No overload Small/medium distribution transformers
ONAF Stage 1 100% \~133% of ONAN rating Substations, industrial zones
ONAF Stage 2 Up to 150% of ONAN rating Emergency overload handling
OFAF 100% Up to 160–175% of ONAN rating High-demand urban substations
ODAF 100% >180% with directed oil flow EHV/GIS step-up transformers

Fans and pumps are staged and temperature-activated, enabling dynamic cooling capacity based on load.


3. Thermal Class and Load Management

Thermal Class Hot-Spot Rise Limit Implication for Loading
Class A (Oil-paper) 65 °C Moderate overloads tolerated for short durations
Class B or F 80–100 °C Higher overloads allowed under control
Synthetic fluids or esters 120+ °C (in some cases) Extended emergency rating in special applications

Hot-spot temperatures must be monitored closely during overload conditions to avoid accelerated aging.


4. Cooling vs. Load Duration Curve

Load Duration Cooling Method Required Reason
0–100% Rated Load ONAN sufficient Base operation
100–125% for hours ONAF Stage 1 Short peak handling without thermal fatigue
125–150% for emergency ONAF Stage 2 or OFAF Requires active cooling to control winding heat
>150% for minutes ODAF or OFWF + temperature alarms Short-term grid fault ride-through

Design must consider load cycles, ambient temperature, and cooling activation thresholds.


5. Key Design Differences Based on Cooling

Cooling Type Core Design Cooling Accessories Monitoring Systems
ONAN Basic tank and fins Radiators only WTI, OTI
ONAF Same as ONAN + fans Radiators with axial or centrifugal fans Fan controller, bimetal relays
OFAF Heavier-duty core Oil pumps + radiator fans Pump starters, differential pressure sensors
ODAF Winding ducts + baffles Oil injectors + enhanced air system SCADA, remote telemetry
OFWF Compact core Oil-water heat exchanger + fluid loops Temperature alarms, water quality sensor

Higher cooling grades require more monitoring, control logic, and fault protection mechanisms.


Summary Table: Cooling & Loading Profile Comparison

Cooling Type Max Load Capacity Best For Cooling Complexity Maintenance Level
ONAN 100% Basic, steady loads Low Minimal
ONAF 133–150% Urban substations, industry Moderate (fans) Moderate
OFAF 160–175% Transmission-level substations High (fans + pumps) High
ODAF >180% GSU, EHV transformers Very high Very high
OFWF 180%+ (compact setups) Nuclear, marine, or dense cities Extreme (fluid loops) Specialized

Why Do Generator Transformers Have Special Short-Circuit Ratings?

In the power generation process, generator transformers are the first interface between the high-current generator output and the high-voltage transmission network. Because of this critical position, they are exposed to the highest levels of electrical and mechanical stress during abnormal events such as short circuits or generator faults. If not specifically designed for these events, a generator transformer can suffer catastrophic internal failure. That’s why special short-circuit withstand ratings are a fundamental part of generator transformer engineering.

Generator transformers require special short-circuit ratings because they are directly connected to the generator’s low-voltage, high-current output, which can result in extremely high fault currents. These transformers must withstand both thermal and mechanical stresses from such faults without deformation, displacement, or insulation failure. This requires robust winding support, reinforced insulation, and compliance with IEC 60076-5 or IEEE C57.12.00 short-circuit testing standards.

These transformers are engineered to survive the worst-case scenarios in the shortest time.

Generator transformers must be specially rated to withstand high short-circuit currents from connected generators.True

Generators can deliver very high fault currents instantly, and generator transformers must be mechanically and thermally reinforced to survive such events.

Generator transformers do not experience significant short-circuit stress and can use standard designs.False

Generator transformers face some of the highest fault current levels in the grid and require enhanced short-circuit withstand capability.


1. Why Generator Transformers Face Higher Fault Currents

Source Impact on Transformer
Generator output impedance is low Allows very high fault current (10–25 times nominal)
Fault occurs near transformer terminals Peak asymmetrical currents exceed 200 kA in milliseconds
Close proximity to source No network impedance to limit fault current

Generator-side faults produce extremely high mechanical forces within windings, especially at the LV terminals.


2. Short-Circuit Rating Requirements

Test Condition Required Capability
Thermal withstand (1–3 seconds) Windings must survive I²t heating effect
Mechanical withstand Windings must resist dynamic forces from magnetic fields
Axial and radial stress Core and clamping structure must not deform
Dielectric integrity No breakdown between turns or layers

These ratings are defined in IEC 60076-5 or IEEE C57.12.00, and must be verified by type test or design simulation.


3. Mechanical Reinforcements in Design

Design Element Short-Circuit Protection Role
Axial clamping rings Prevent coil movement during magnetic shock
Epoxy-glass spacers Distribute force uniformly between winding layers
Rigid winding supports Prevent buckling or bulging during fault surge
Multi-start disc windings Improve mechanical integrity and current sharing
Conductor bracing Reduces movement under Lorentz force during asymmetry

Generator transformers must withstand peak dynamic forces over 100,000 kgf per winding turn.


4. Thermal Considerations During Short Circuit

Condition Temperature Rise and Effect
2s short-circuit event Windings may heat by over 250 °C
Oil flash point risk Requires flame-retardant insulation and pressure relief
Conductor annealing risk Can cause loss of copper mechanical strength

Thermal stress is not just heat—it’s heat combined with mechanical distortion.


5. Protection Coordination with Switchgear

System Component Coordination with Transformer
Generator circuit breakers Must clear fault before winding damage
Differential relays Detect transformer faults within milliseconds
Overcurrent protection Limits duration of short-circuit exposure

Generator transformers rely on very fast protective relaying to minimize short-circuit stress duration.


6. Typical Short-Circuit Ratings by Transformer Size

Transformer Rating (MVA) Typical Short-Circuit Rating (kA, 1s) Application
50 MVA 31.5 kA Mid-size hydro, gas plants
100 MVA 40–50 kA Thermal generation
300 MVA 63–80 kA Combined cycle or large hydro
500+ MVA 100–160 kA Nuclear, supercritical plants

Larger generator transformers often require custom fault withstand engineering.


Summary Table: Generator Transformer Short-Circuit Design Focus

Aspect Design Consideration
Electrical proximity Direct generator connection (zero impedance path)
Fault current level 10–25 times nominal current
Thermal withstand 1–3 seconds without insulation breakdown
Mechanical strength Windings must not move or deform
Regulatory standard IEC 60076-5 / IEEE C57.12.00
Testing method Simulated via FEM or real short-circuit lab test

How Does Their Placement in the Power System Distinguish Generator Transformers?

Among all transformer types in the power network, generator transformers have the most distinct and strategic placement. Positioned immediately after the electricity generation unit, they serve as the first critical interface between the power plant and the high-voltage transmission system. This location exposes them to unique electrical conditions, including high fault current potentials and large thermal loads, distinguishing them from other transformers used later in the grid for stepping down or distributing power.

Generator transformers are uniquely placed between the power plant's generator output and the transmission grid switchyard. They step up the generator voltage (typically 11–25 kV) to high transmission voltages (110–765 kV), enabling efficient long-distance power transfer. Their position exposes them to direct generator currents, transient stresses, and grid dynamics, which requires special design for thermal, mechanical, and short-circuit performance.

This placement is what sets generator transformers apart in function, responsibility, and design.

Generator transformers are located between the generator and the transmission system to step up voltage for efficient grid integration.True

Their placement directly after generation and before the grid allows voltage elevation and fault isolation, optimizing energy delivery.

Generator transformers are installed at the end of the distribution line to reduce voltage for residential users.False

That role belongs to distribution transformers; generator transformers operate at the generation-transmission interface.


1. Power System Structure and Transformer Placement

Power System Level Transformer Type Used Voltage Role
Generation Station Generator Transformer Step-up (e.g., 15 kV → 400 kV)
Transmission Substation Power Transformer Step-down/interconnect (e.g., 400 kV → 132 kV)
Distribution Substation Distribution Transformer Step-down (e.g., 33 kV → 11 kV)
End-User Supply Pole-Mounted Transformer Final step-down (e.g., 11 kV → 400 V)

Generator transformers are the entry point into the transmission grid.


2. Electrical Environment at Generator Transformer Location

Characteristic Why It Matters
Low generator impedance Allows very high fault current during events
High power output Requires large capacity (50–1500+ MVA)
Transient-prone zone Generator switching, synchronization, and turbine trips create surges
Frequency stability point Closest to the generation frequency control

Their placement demands enhanced surge protection, thermal endurance, and rigid mechanical design.


3. Functional Differentiation Based on Location

Transformer Type Location Function
Generator Transformer Right after generator terminals Step-up voltage for transmission
Transmission Transformer Between grid voltage levels Interconnect zones or regions
Distribution Transformer At substation or near consumers Step-down for final use

Generator transformers initiate the transmission process, others manage or finalize delivery.


4. Physical and Operational Characteristics Driven by Placement

Design Feature Reason Based on Placement
Short-circuit withstand Generator faults cause high current surges
Advanced cooling (ODAF/OFAF) Generator output is continuous and high-power
OLTC often not present Fixed ratio preferred for grid stability
Transformer housed near turbine Must fit into power plant layout

Generator transformers are customized to the dynamics of power plants, unlike generic grid transformers.


5. Why Placement Affects Testing and Monitoring

Design Implication Operational Priority
Closer to generation Requires integration with generator protection relays
Subject to islanding and syncing Must support stable grid re-entry
First fault point Equipped with surge arresters and Buchholz relay
Vital for energy evacuation Must be online continuously; high reliability

Their proximity to generation means any transformer failure equals full plant shutdown.


Summary Table: Generator Transformer Placement and Role

Attribute Generator Transformer
Location Between generator terminals and HV switchyard
Primary Function Step-up generator voltage for grid transmission
Input Voltage 11–25 kV
Output Voltage 110–765 kV
Typical Load Continuous, near 100% loading
Key Risks Fault currents, thermal overload, transients
Design Considerations Short-circuit strength, robust insulation, cooling

Conclusion

Generator transformers (GSUs) are directly connected to power generators and typically operate at low voltage (on the generator side) and high current. They step up the voltage to transmission levels. Power transformers, on the other hand, are used within the transmission and distribution network to transfer energy between voltage levels and handle load variations. Generator transformers require higher short-circuit strength and continuous operation under full load, while power transformers are optimized for efficient voltage regulation and long-distance transmission support.


FAQ

Q1: What is the main difference between a generator transformer and a power transformer?
A1: The main difference lies in their function and application:

A generator transformer (often called a GSU – Generator Step-Up Transformer) connects directly to a generator and steps up voltage from generation level (e.g., 11–25kV) to transmission level (e.g., 132–400kV).

A power transformer is used in transmission networks to step up or step down voltage between transmission and sub-transmission or distribution systems.

Q2: How do their voltage levels differ?
A2: Generator transformers handle low to high voltage conversion, typically 11–25kV up to 132–400kV.

Power transformers operate primarily at high or ultra-high voltages, such as 220kV, 400kV, 765kV, used for bulk transmission between substations.

Q3: What are their differences in loading and operation?
A3: Generator transformers are designed to run close to full load continuously, matching the generator output.

Power transformers may experience variable loading based on transmission demands and grid balancing.

Q4: Are their winding configurations different?
A4: Yes.

Generator transformers usually have a delta connection on the primary (generator side) and star on the secondary (grid side) to provide a neutral point and prevent circulating currents.

Power transformers may have star-star, delta-delta, or other vector group configurations depending on network design and grounding requirements.

Q5: Where are they installed in the power system?
A5: Generator transformers are located between the generator and the grid, inside power plants.

Power transformers are found at transmission substations, interconnecting various parts of the electrical grid.

References

"Generator Transformer vs Power Transformer Explained" – https://www.transformertech.com/generator-vs-power-transformer

"Understanding Generator Step-Up Transformers" – https://www.electrical4u.com/generator-transformer-function

"Key Differences Between Generator and Power Transformers" – https://www.powermag.com/generator-transformer-vs-power-transformer

"Energy Central: Transformer Roles in Power Networks" – https://www.energycentral.com/c/ee/transformer-differences

"Smart Grid News: Generator Transformer Use Cases" – https://www.smartgridnews.com/generator-transformer-guide

"ScienceDirect: Application-Based Transformer Classification" – https://www.sciencedirect.com/generator-power-transformer-study

"ResearchGate: Analysis of Generator and Power Transformer Functions" – https://www.researchgate.net/generator-vs-power-transformer

"PowerGrid: Generator Step-Up Transformer Overview" – https://www.powergrid.com/gsu-vs-power-transformers

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