Simulations and Experimental Studies towards Thermal Performance Improvement of 36 kV Bushings

This paper presents the results of simulation and experimental studies which were performed to improve the temperature distribution of 36 kV wall type bushings. An electro-thermal model was developed and used in simulations together with 2D symmetrical model of the bushing. Relative impacts of conductor material, flange material, thickness of the air gap along the conductor of the bushing, thermal conductivity of the dielectric, and Cu coating thickness of Al conductor on the temperature distribution of the bushing were analysed. Several laboratory tests were also performed to determine the critical hotspot points as well as to determine the cost effective alternatives for improving the thermal performance of the bushing.