Top Reasons to Replace an Oil-Filler Transformer with a Cast Resin Transformer

Posted on: 18 November 2019

Transformers play an integral role in ensuring manufacturing operations are not interrupted by planned or unplanned power blackouts. Modern transformers are designed to turn on when there is a power outage automatically, and off once the power is restored. You must, however, be careful when buying a transformer, because whichever model you choose will have varying benefits. You should think about getting a cast resin transformer rather than a traditional oil-filled transformer. This article looks at the different ways a manufacturing facility can benefit from a cast resin transformer.  

Minimal Fire Risk

Fire is the number one risk manufacturing facilities have to contend with when operating a transformer, especially if the devices is one of the oil-filled types. Transformer manufacturers, therefore, have to use special fire protection coatings for these transformers. While the coats do an excellent job of preventing extensive fire damage, the resulting damages or fatalities are expensive. Cast resin transformers, on the other hand, are made from inflammable material, and that is why they are defined as self-extinguishing transformers in some quarters. Therefore, there will be minimal toxic smoke in case of a fire thanks to the non-toxic cast resin. It makes cast resin transformers ideal for applications where fire safety is of the utmost importance, such as in oil rigs and nuclear power plants.  

Easy Maintenance

Transformers produce heat during operations; therefore, it is vital to keep the equipment well maintained and well cooled. For oil-filled transformers, a common cooling method is liquid cooling. In this case, coolant flows through a piping system within the transformer and transfers heat from internal parts. If the coolant develops a problem and it is not addressed in time, then the chances are that the transformer will overheat. As such, these transformers must be closely inspected, and that means more time and labour. Cast resin transformers, however, don't require that level of maintenance because they use air for cooling. This allows a manufacturing facility to distribute its resources wisely and effectively for high productivity.   

Fast Installation

As mentioned earlier, oil-filled transformers are prone to fire risks. Therefore, manufacturing facilities are often advised to build blast walls to protect the surroundings from extensive damage in case of an explosion. The extra necessities make the installation of oil-filled transformers a real hassle. A cast resin transformer, on the other hand, is easy and fast to install because you do not need to enclose it within blast walls. Ultimately, you save on installation costs and time.

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