Project overview
Ester-based insulation fluids offer several benefits for the operation of transformers, apart from being more ecologically sustainable. While being significantly cheaper than silicone fluids, they offer an increased level of resistance to accidental fires, reducing the cost of maintenance over the transformers’ lifetime. They also offer the possibility of improved thermal performance, due to their typically lower viscosity. However, such liquids are typically more expensive than mineral oil, and have only been used in high voltage power transformers relatively recently, so operational experience with them is limited. This project will work to improve the understanding of the impact of alternative liquids on transformers through simulations and experimental investigations. Particular attention will be given to the thermal performance of such liquids, and the possibility of improved ratings.
