Development of a Finite Element Model for Pressure Test Simulation of Transformer Tanks With Skid Bases

Deciding the boundary conditions is the most difficult part of developing an effective finite element model. Incorrect boundary conditions can cause significant errors in analysis. The finite element analysis has become a popular method of design validation for the transformer tank but the boundary conditions to be used for simulating the pressure test by finite element analysis are not clear. The pressure test analysis is carried out by assuming the bottom surface of the transformer tank to be fixed. This common practice has not been validated and requires verification. In this work, a generalized model of the transformer tank under the pressure was solved to eliminate the assumption, and the results were compared with those of the usual practice. It was found that there was significant difference in the results of the two models indicating the incorrectness of the usual practice.