High-energy arc faults constitute a significant contributor to ignitions and explosions in large power transformers. The pressure wave associated with these arcs can cause deformation or even catastrophic rupture of the transformer tank

ultimately leading to transformer explosions. However

to date

the pressure characteristics induced by high-energy arcs in transformers remain poorly understood

and corresponding protection technologies are still in their nascent stages. Consequently

studying the pressure characteristics and protection strategies of electric arcs in oil is of important significance for ensuring the safe operation of large power transformers. This paper describes the characteristics and generation mechanism of high-energy arc pressure

summarizes the current research status of arc pressure simulation technology

analyzes the failure process of transformer oil tank under high-energy arc pressure

reviews the current test technology of transformer strength assessment under high-energy arc

and identifies the challenges faced in the 90 MJ arc energy assessment of UHV transformers. The fuel tank protection technology under high-energy arc discharge is summarized and the methods of active defense and rapid removal of high-energy arc are reviewed. The prospects in future research directions of arc pressure

fuel tank failure mechanism

high-energy arc equivalent test method

and ignition and explosion protection technology are further put forward

which can provide a reference for the research of high-energy arc discharge protection technology for large power transformers.