Assembly and test of 5/10 MVA HTS transformer

High temperature superconducting transformers offer many economic, operational, and environmental benefits over conventional power transformers for utility applications. To establish the technical and economic feasibility and benefits of HTS transformers of medium-to-large (>10 MVA) ratings, a team that includes Waukesha electric systems (transformer manufacturer), superpower (HTS systems manufacturer), Oak Ridge National Lab, and energy east has designed and fabricated a prototype 5/10MVA superconducting transformer. The unit is presently undergoing electrical, thermal, and vacuum testing. This work summarizes the manufacturing, the cooldown, and the testing to date.