The Two Types Of Transformers

By Author: Cyrus Joseph
Total Articles: 58
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Basically, there are two distinct varieties of transformers in the market today, one is the Liquid Filled Transformer and another is the non liquid insulated transformer, also known as the air or gas cooled type. There are also subcategories of each variety of transformers. So read on to find out more information about them. The pros and cons of each type of transformers will greatly vary, depending on how they are use as well as the manufacturer or the brand of the company behind it. Nevertheless, there are certain performance and application characteristics that are considered universally accepted.

Liquid Filled Transformer

For the Liquid Filled Transformer, the cooling medium is often a conventional mineral oil. There are also wet varieties of transformers that make use of flammable liquids like hydrocarbons as well as silicones. The liquid filled varieties of transformers are often more efficient than the dry varieties and they have a much longer life expectancy as well. In addition, the Liquid Filled Transformer is actually a much more efficient cooling medium when it comes to reducing the hot spot temperatures ...
... right on the coils. The liquid filed units are also known to have a much better overload capability.

Disadvantages

There are also some minor drawbacks that come with using the Liquid Filled Transformer. For example, fire prevention is necessary with the liquid filled varieties since it makes use of a liquid cooling medium that could easily catch fire. Although the dry type transformers can also catch fire, but it is even more possible for an improperly protected liquid transformer to explode. It is for this reason why these varieties of transformers need to have Voltage Regulators so s to gauge the temperature of the surroundings and prevent fire.

Choosing the Right Transformer

When choosing transformers, the changeover point in between the dry varieties and that of the wet varieties is usually in between 500kVA to 2.5MVA, with the dry types used for a much lower rating while the wet types are for higher ratings. Some of the most important factors to consider when deciding whether to invest on the Liquid Filled Transformer or the dry type is the location or the place where the transformer is to be installed, such as inside an office or commercial building, etc.

Dry Type Transformers

Dry type transformers that have ratings exceeding 5MVA exists in the market, although majority of the much higher capacity transformers are liquid filled. If the transformer is to be used outdoors, the Liquid Filled Transformer is recommended. Purchases of transformers are usually based on the cost without considering long term economics, when the transformer evaluation and purchase decision is not made by the consumer.

Cooling and insulating system

Since air is the most basic insulating and cooling system for the dry type varieties of transformers, all of the dry type transformers are often larger than the Liquid Filled Transformer with the same voltage and capacity rating. Thus, the Voltage Regulators should be installed when using these varieties of transformers.

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