Advantages and Disadvantages of Oil-immersed Transformers

Oil-immersed transformers are a common type of transformer whose insulation system uses a liquid insulating agent (usually insulating oil). Here are some advantages and disadvantages of oil-immersed transformers:

 

1. Advantages:

Good insulation properties: Oil is an excellent insulating material that can effectively isolate windings and provide good electrical insulation properties.

 

High power density: Oil-immersed transformers can transmit larger power relative to their volume and have higher power density.

 

Good cooling performance: Oil can effectively cool the transformer and help maintain normal operating temperature of the equipment.

 

Low noise: Due to the better insulating properties of insulating oil, oil-immersed transformers usually produce relatively low noise.

 

Smaller volume: Under the same power, oil-immersed transformers usually have relatively smaller volumes.

 

Adapt to large-capacity needs: Oil-immersed transformers are suitable for large-capacity, high-voltage power systems and can meet the needs of large-scale power transmission and distribution.

 

2. Disadvantages:

Environmental issues: The insulating oil of oil-immersed transformers may contain some harmful substances, so environmental issues may be involved when handling and disposing of waste oil.

 

Maintenance is relatively cumbersome: Oil-immersed transformers require regular inspection and maintenance of oil quality, including testing and replacement of oil quality, which may be relatively cumbersome.

 

Higher cost: The manufacturing cost of oil-immersed transformers is relatively high, especially in special environments where explosion-proof equipment or oil tanks are required.

 

Possible risk of leakage: Oil-immersed transformers have a certain risk of leakage during operation, which may have a certain impact on the environment and personnel safety.

 

Not suitable for special environments: Oil-immersed transformers may not be suitable for use in some special environments, such as high altitude, humid or corrosive environments.

 

When selecting a transformer, you need to weigh and consider factors such as specific application scenarios, cost, and environmental protection to determine whether to use an oil-immersed transformer or other types of transformers.