Work

Towards a performance index for distribution transformer prioritization and management

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Differentiating the operational condition of distribution transformers is essential for their effective management. Traditional approaches based on overloading or equivalent aging capture only limited aspects of operation and offer restricted support for management decisions. This paper proposes a performance index that prioritizes distribution transformers by quantifying key aspects of equipment operation through comprehensive feature engineering applied to data commonly available to utilities. Using information such as rated capacity, active power demand, monthly energy, and consumer connections, 13 features were derived and incorporated into a two-step learning framework based on dimensionality reduction that produces a single valued and interpretable performance index. Results show that the index effectively separates units according to their utilization patterns and provides a practical decision support tool for targeted management interventions.

Source: Electric Power Systems Research

DOI: 10.1016/j.epsr.2026.112806

Authors: Luís H.T. Bandória, Ricardo Torquato, Madson C. Almeida, Renato M. Monaro

Institutions: Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP), Universidade de São Paulo

Language: English

Topic: Power Transformer Diagnostics and Insulation

Subfield: Electrical and Electronic Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Industry, innovation and infrastructure, Affordable and clean energy

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $2,810