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<p>Due to the ongoing load shedding in South Africa, the incidence of power transformer failures has increased significantly, making the enhancement of grid-connected transformer design a critical concern. Historically, the South African utility grid has relied on conventional technologies; however, under load-shedding conditions, these systems are increasingly vulnerable to switching surges and related stresses, while also being costly to maintain. This study investigates the underlying factors contributing to the premature failure of power transformers, with a specific focus on winding breakdown. A systematic literature review is conducted using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) approach to analyze existing research on transformer failures. The review is based on consolidated failure data from 2015 to the present. The findings indicate that the most common causes of transformer failure are windings (41%), tap changers (22%), main tank failures (16%), bushings (15%) and core-related issues (4%). In response to these challenges, several studies have proposed knowledge-based technologies for diagnosing transformer faults and improving grid stability. These approaches are increasingly gaining attention within power system research. However, there remains limited evidence regarding their practical viability and large-scale implementation. This gap highlights the need for stronger collaboration between academia and industry and raises important questions about the underutilization of academic advancements in utility practices. Accordingly, this study evaluates current and emerging knowledge-based technologies and examines their applicability in real-world power systems.</p>

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Bridging theory and practice: systematic review into power transformer winding failures in South Africa

  • 期刊论文

  • 出版模式：

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  • 发表日期：

    2026年7月31日

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  • M. K. Ngwenyama,
  • M. B. Moketla,
  • M. N. Gitau

摘要

Due to the ongoing load shedding in South Africa, the incidence of power transformer failures has increased significantly, making the enhancement of grid-connected transformer design a critical concern. Historically, the South African utility grid has relied on conventional technologies; however, under load-shedding conditions, these systems are increasingly vulnerable to switching surges and related stresses, while also being costly to maintain. This study investigates the underlying factors contributing to the premature failure of power transformers, with a specific focus on winding breakdown. A systematic literature review is conducted using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) approach to analyze existing research on transformer failures. The review is based on consolidated failure data from 2015 to the present. The findings indicate that the most common causes of transformer failure are windings (41%), tap changers (22%), main tank failures (16%), bushings (15%) and core-related issues (4%). In response to these challenges, several studies have proposed knowledge-based technologies for diagnosing transformer faults and improving grid stability. These approaches are increasingly gaining attention within power system research. However, there remains limited evidence regarding their practical viability and large-scale implementation. This gap highlights the need for stronger collaboration between academia and industry and raises important questions about the underutilization of academic advancements in utility practices. Accordingly, this study evaluates current and emerging knowledge-based technologies and examines their applicability in real-world power systems.