Transformer Oil Treatment: Essential Guide to Types, Functions, and Maintenance
Transformer oil plays a critical role in the performance and longevity of transformers. As a liquid insulator, it not only provides insulation but also transfers heat throughout the system. Therefore, understanding the basics of transformer oil treatment is essential for anyone involved in maintaining electrical transformers. This guide covers the main parameters of transformer oil, its types, functions, and best practices for its treatment.
Types of Transformer Oil
There are two commonly used types of insulating oils in transformers:
- Mineral Oils (Naphthenic-based oils)
- Paraffinic Oils
While various transformer oil origins exist, mineral oils are the most popular worldwide, closely followed by paraffinic oils. Each type has its advantages and disadvantages. For example, naphthenic oils oxidize more easily, whereas paraffinic oils can be more challenging to service.
Choosing the right transformer oil requires careful consideration of your system’s specific needs and how you plan to conduct transformer oil treatment.
Transformer Oil Systems
An effective transformer oil system must meet basic requirements and standards to ensure optimal performance. Understanding the main functions and principles of transformer oil is crucial, especially when considering specialized applications. Clarity on the type of transformer oil treatment required is vital for maintaining system integrity.
Main Functions of Transformer Oil
- InsulationTransformer oil acts as a protective barrier, preserving the solid insulation of the transformer from damaging factors. The oil must be robust and reliable to prevent insulation degradation. Studies indicate that approximately 85% of transformer failures occur due to weakening of the insulating paper, often resulting from poor oil conditions.
- Heat TransferServing as a cooling medium, transformer oil must have adequate heat capacity to maintain the required temperature levels within the transformer. Inadequate heat transfer can lead to losses and significant damage to the system.
- Dielectric StrengthDielectric strength is a key indicator of oil quality. Aging affects the electrical properties of transformer oil, and without timely transformer oil treatment, serious electrical system issues can arise.
Additionally, transformer oil can be used in various diagnostics and tests to assess transformer health.
Methods of Transformer Oil Treatment
There are two primary methods for servicing transformer oil:
- Oil Replacement
- Transformer Oil Treatment (including purification, recycling, and restoration)
While oil replacement might seem straightforward, transformer oil treatment is often more economical and practical. Treatment processes like purification and restoration can rejuvenate the oil, extending its service life and ensuring optimal transformer performance.
Moreover, transformer oil treatment can often be performed while the system is operational, minimizing downtime. This is particularly beneficial for companies that cannot afford power outages. Modern technologies now allow for in-line transformer oil treatment, enhancing efficiency and convenience.
GlobeCore Transformer Oil Treatment Solutions
GlobeCore has developed specialized technologies for effective transformer oil treatment. The company produces units capable of performing various processes to maintain and enhance transformer oil quality.
All configurations of GlobeCore’s CMM plants share common basic functions:
- Filtration
- Oil Pumping
- Oil Degassing
Additional features cater to specific maintenance requirements, such as high-temperature and high-voltage applications. Some plants, like the CMM-2.2, are optimized for in-line operations.
CMM-2 Mobile Oil Plant
The CMM-2 mobile oil unit is designed for installations, repairs, and other treatments of oil-filled high-voltage equipment. Its key parameters include:
- Reduces volumetric gas content to below 10.5%
- Lowers mass moisture content to below 0.005% (50 g/ton)
- Operates effectively at temperatures above 0 °C (32 °F)
- Capable of initial oil heating to +60 ± 5 °C (140 ± 9 °F)
CMM-0.6 Oil Degassing & Filtration Cart
The CMM-0.6 oil degassing is versatile and can operate with any required voltage. It features:
- A vacuum column and ceramic oil heater
- A system of fluid and vacuum pumps
- Replaceable cartridges and sensors to monitor pressure drop at the filters and the working vacuum level
- Easy control of the heating temperature
Both units offer unique features and are highly effective in transformer oil treatment processes.
Selecting the appropriate equipment for transformer oil treatment is vital for maintaining transformer performance and longevity. Each transformer system has unique requirements, and it’s essential to choose equipment that meets your specific parameters. GlobeCore is committed to assisting clients in selecting the best solutions for their transformer oil treatment needs, offering expert guidance and top-quality equipment.