OPERATION & MAINTENANCE OF POWER PLANTS
The development in dry-type transformer technology has opened up new applications
HOME AND DRY Pablo Castano-Mariscal challenges some widely held misconceptions about
dry-type transformers – in particular that they are only for applications at up to medium-voltage where inherent safety is important
transformers, which are filled with mineral oil to insulate and cool the windings. Compared with oil, the solid insulation is non-flammable, non-combustible and has no chance of a leakage. Tis gives dry-type units the significant advantage of having an inherently low risk of safety and environmental impact. However, the materials and manufacturing process is more costly for
D 18
www.engineerlive.com
ry-type transformers use solid dielectric materials to insulate the windings and natural air for cooling. Tis compares with conventional
dry-type transformers, leading to a higher purchase price than their oil-filled cousins. As a result, they have always been
reserved for installations where fire and environmental protection are top priorities. Tis typically includes indoor substations or outdoors near sensitive sites. Tey are also regularly installed as a retrofit solution to comply with the latest building and environmental codes.
LIFETIME SAVINGS At the same time, high safety and low maintenance requirements can offer savings
in civil engineering, fire safety systems and maintenance that offset the higher purchase price. Tese savings can mean that dry-type competes with oil-filled technology on the basis of total cost of ownership (TCO). Installation savings can be found with
dry-type units as there is no need for primary and secondary oil containment, fire suppression systems and perimeter clearance or fire-rated walls. In addition, transportation and installation are also more straightforward, with no oil handling as dry-type units are shipped fully assembled.
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36 |
Page 37 |
Page 38 |
Page 39 |
Page 40 |
Page 41 |
Page 42 |
Page 43 |
Page 44 |
Page 45 |
Page 46 |
Page 47 |
Page 48 |
Page 49 |
Page 50 |
Page 51 |
Page 52
