Essential Selection Criteria for Your Industrial Power Transformers

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Increasing power demands has forced operators to consider innovative ways to ensure the units are up to the task. Regardless of the operating environment, your power transformer must have reliable and efficient performance lest it hinders industrial operations and productivity. 

If you're considering upgrading or replacing your industrial power transformers, there are numerous factors to consider for optimum efficiency and enhanced operations. Therefore, keep in mind the following selection criteria to make an informed purchase: 

What's the Power Transformer's Operating Environment? 

Generally, the operating environments for transformers can be considered highly extreme and diverse. For instance, some environments might be saline and corrosive, while others might have extremely hot or cold temperatures. 

Choosing a transformer for such conditions requires critical thinking and meticulous selection. Consider power transformers designed from corrosion-resistant materials like stainless steel for harsher conditions. Above all, assess the operating environments before making your power transformer selection. 

What Transformer Type Do You Need? 

The two primary power transformer types include liquid-type and dry-type. The liquid-type power transformers have insulation and contain mineral oil that facilitates cooling. Conversely, dry-type power transformers depend on gas or air for cooling. You can, however, choose either of these two depending on your unique industrial requirements. 

For instance, liquid-type power transformers require excellent fire protection since they are prone to overheating and catching fire. You might require proper containment troughs to prevent leakage on these transformer types. As such, they are well suited for outdoor environments. 

Which Size Is Required for Your Application?

Power transfer ratings for each power transformer depends on the load handling capacity. Your application and current loads will determine the unit's specs and, ultimately, the characteristics of your power transformer design and size. Usually, any extensive gas or oil processing plant will require different power transformer sizes and transfer ratings. 

Are There Any Accessories Required? 

Depending on usage requirements, you might require various accessories for your power transformer, just like any other equipment purchase. For example, you might require liquid level gauges, liquid temperature gauges and pressure or vacuum gauges for a liquid-type transformer. Other accessories necessary for proper transformer function include lightning arrestors, neutral ground resistors, electronic temperature monitors etc. 

Final Thoughts 

When replacing or upgrading your power transformers, consider these essential selection criteria to find the ideal unit for your industrial applications. Any power transformer purchase is a vital decision that should involve key decision-makers and stakeholders to answer all the questions discussed above. 

Contact a power transformer manufacturer for more information. 

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