NSGA-II plus FEM Based Loss Optimization of Three-Phase Transformer

In order to obtain a good optimization method for the electrical transformer design with optimal selection of parameters, performance evaluation of three evolutionary algorithms (EAs), namely, genetic algorithm (GA), differential evolution algorithm, and nondominated sorting GA (NSGA-II), is carried out. The aim of this paper is to optimize parameters of transformer design (core thicknesses, primary-turn number, secondary-turn number, primary conductor area, and secondary conductor area) for minimization of total power losses (no-load losses and load losses) in three-phase transformer topology while maintaining high efficiency and low cost. The method used for this optimization scheme combines the finite-element method (FEM) and EAs to provide an accurate selection of parameters together with the optimized magnetic flux density and decreased loss. Experimental results show that NSGA-II+FEM model successfully provides a global feasible solution by minimizing total loss and related cost while improving the efficiency of three-phase transformer, rendering it suitable for application in the design environment of industrial transformers.