Restricted Earth Fault Trip due to inrush current

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A 50MVA, 132/33 kV transformer is tripping on restricted earth fault (REF) during charging due to magnetizing inrush current, with significant inrush values recorded across phases. The relay's current settings and operating times are under scrutiny, as the customer is reluctant to adjust the time multiplier setting (TMS) to mitigate the issue, fearing it will compromise normal earth fault protection. The transformer features a step lap core construction with high-grade materials, but similar transformers at the substation do not exhibit this problem. The discussion highlights the challenges of current transformer saturation and the impact of DC offset earth fault currents. Suggestions for resolving the issue are sought from the community.
Sreelathag
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Hello I need some help. In our 50MVA, 132/33 kV star/star transformer, at the time of charging from HV side, the transformer trips on REF (restricted Earth fault) due to magnetizing inrush current.

Rated current: 218.7 Amp
Line CT ratio: 800/400/200/1 Amp
tap selected 400/1 Amp
setting on MJT 36 Numerical relay.
Earth fault = 0.2 In
TMF = 0.15 In
Inrush current in three phases is:
Ia = 0.42
Ib = 0.05
Ic = 0.51

EF current in neutral = 0.58 In
Relay operating time = 0.94 s

Since, inrush dyeing time > 2.5 s, the relay trips.

At TMS 0.3, the relay operating time = 1.89s
At TMS 0.4, the relay operating time = 2.52s

Customer advised to change TMS to 0.4 (2.52s), he does not agree since,

i) It will affect his normal Earth fault protection time of 0.94s which is not desirable.
ii) Other similar transformer in the same substation does not give the problem.

The transformer is made with step lap core construction using Hi-B grade material using 1.6 tesla flux density.

Can anyone help me analyze and suggest what to do?

Thanks & Regards
G.Sreelatha
Asst. Manager
Vijai Electricals Limited
Hyderabad.
 
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