What is transformer oil?
Transformer oil, also known as insulating oil, refers to a special type of oil whose applications are electrical transformers, circuit breakers, and other high-voltage equipment. The insulating oil has a fundamental role to play in protecting and ensuring the machines’ efficient operation.
This oil has dual functions, which include
- Cooling—It sucks up the heat generated inside the transformer and assists in pushing it outside.
- Insulating—It acts as an electrical insulator for various parts of the device, making it possible to do without conducting electricity, which helps avoid short circuits and other electric failures.
In the absence of transformer oil of good quality, the electric equipment will be able to overheat, suffer from damage, and be completely broken down.
Why is transformer oil used?
Transformer oil is used primarily to safeguard, cool, and insulate high-voltage electrical machines. These machines are used in power stations, substations, factories, and industries.
- It manages heat—heat is generated during the flow of electricity. Transformer oil takes away the heat as it is formed; thus, no further damage is caused.
- It wards off dangers—the oil quenches sparks, and usage of the machine becomes safer; thus, it is prevented from getting damaged.
- It can be used to keep transformers dry—humidity is something that might bring disaster to the transformer. This oil sets up a barrier and keeps the humidity out.
- It extends the life of equipment—clean and high-quality oil is the reason that the transformer can last much longer.
What Devices Need Transformer Oil?
A transformer is not just the only spot where the oil is to be found. It is also an essential material for various other electronic devices like
- Power transformers
- Distribution transformers
- High-voltage circuit breakers
- Switchgear systems
- Capacitors
- Tap changers
- Rectifiers and reactors
Transformer oil is usually needed for safe and smooth performance at high-voltage locations, wherever that might be.
Varieties of Transformer Oil
There are basically three types of transformer oil that can be bought in the market:
1. Mineral-Based Transformer Oil
This type of oil is the most popular choice for transformers. There are two types available:
- Uninhibited Mineral Oil—This type of oil has basic performance and no enhancement.
- Inhibited Mineral Oil—This one has special added chemicals that can slow down the breakdown of the oil, and thus the oil’s life is increased.
2. Synthetic Transformer Oil
- This type of oil is a product of chemical synthesis.
- It exhibits high stability at high temperatures.
- It is mostly used in severe weather conditions or according to special needs.
3. Natural Ester Transformer Oil (Biodegradable Oil)
- This type of oil is produced naturally and not artificially created.
- They are eco-friendly oils and can be easily decomposed.
- In case of a fire, the oil has a higher flash point, which means that it is safer than other oils.
- They are applied in areas with scarce resources or in cities that endeavor to reduce pollution.
If you need to ensure the oil is effective and safeguards your tool, it must have the attributes indicated below:
- High Dielectric Strength—It can accommodate high voltage without being damaged.
- Low Water Content—Presence of water in oil can diminish the oil’s insulation capability.
- High Flash Point—Oil should not catch fire readily.
- Low Pour Point—It must be able to flow easily in cold weather.
- Good Oxidation Stability—Oil should not break down easily.
- Thermal Conductivity—Oil must take the heat away with high efficiency.
At some point in time of your buying transformer oil, always make certain that these features are in place, or get a report from the supplier to make sure about this category.
Advantages of Choosing High-Quality Transformer Oil
By using a proper transformer oil, one can gain several benefits:
- Boosts the equipment’s performance
- Lowers the chances of breakdown or malfunction
- Cuts maintenance costs
- Decreases the risk of having a fire or any type of accidents
- Makes the equipment have a longer life
- Keeps the environment clean (with the help of biodegradable oil)
Choosing the right transformer oil isn’t just a cost; it is a prudent way to save your electrical system.