Insulation optimization of traction transformer for Lightweight Application

With the requirements of the transformer insulation, optimizing the main insulation distance is of great significance to realize the lightweight of traction transformer. In this paper, the electric field distribution of traction transformer is calculated by two-dimensional finite element method. Based on the electric field distribution, a stepped winding insulation structure is proposed to improve the use of insulation. Subsequently, the GA(Genetic algorithm) is used to optimize the arrangement of the winding with the objective of lightweight. After optimization, the core height was reduced by 52mm and the body weight was reduced by 67.9kg. In addition, the electric field of the transformer before and after optimization is evaluated by the global scanning method. The evaluation results show that the structure can achieve large weight reduction and ensure insulation margin at the same time. The structure has important reference significance for the lightweight of traction transformer.