Transformer oils
Transformers are devices that convert electrical energy with little power loss (the voltage can be changed to lower, higher or remain the same). These devices produce large amounts of energy in the form of heat during operation. Therefore, they require the use of specific chemicals that will effectively cool the device mechanism. Various types of transformer oils perform this function. They are cooling substances and also act as insulators. Thanks to them, heat from various components of the device is dissipated and the transformer can operate without failure for a long time. What else are the characteristics of transformer oils?
Effective operation at variable temperatures
Transformer oils are needed to dissipate some of the heat energy during machine operation. This ensures efficient operation and functioning of the transformer at variable temperatures. Use of oils allows also for lower network energy losses, i.e. the differences between the energy introduced into the network and the energy received from it. Oil as a cooling substance must be resistant to high temperatures, which should not lead to its oxidation or degradation. In practice, oil can operate at both low and high temperatures.
Viscosity and dielectric strength of oil
Transformer oils are non-toxic liquids, thick enough to penetrate any space, but not settle on machine components. The properties of transformer oil should guarantee excellent protection of metal parts against abrasion and corrosion. Its important parameter is viscosity, which ensures good lubrication and cannot change rapidly at high temperatures. Moreover, transformer oils should be resistant to electric field intensity, and therefore have high dielectric strength. This allows these oils to be effective insulators.
Other parameters of transformer oil
Other important parameters of transformer oils are water content and pour point. Water has a direct impact on electrical insulating properties. The pour point means the lowest temperature at which mixing occurs. When choosing oil, it is also worth paying attention to such issues as its acidity, breakdown voltage and flash point. The latter should be high, which allows maintaining a high level of safety when using machines.
Characteristics of transformer oils
Oils made from petroleum
Transformer oils available on the market are manufactured based on various ingredients. However, the most common products are those produced by processing crude oil. They have high liquidity and breakdown voltage. Thanks to this, they ensure the most effective heat dissipation and insulation saturation. These types of products are also called mineral oils. They are characterized by a long biological decomposition time, which is why they may lead to environmental pollution.
Synthetic transformer oils
Synthetic oils are also available on the market. They are made on the basis of esters and also include: carbon, oxygen and hydrogen. This type of transformer oil is much more environmentally friendly because its decomposition products are only water and carbon dioxide. However, it has slightly worse thermal properties, mainly due to its higher viscosity. In addition, synthetic oils have a low pour point and a high flash point.
Efficiency and durability of transformers
It is worth adding that the properties of transformer oil allow it to be used in various electrical devices without fear of damage or short circuits. It has a high density, so it acts as an insulator and allows for increased safety during the operation of the transformer. Moreover, the ability to receive and release heat makes the oil a coolant that protects the device's structural parts from overheating. Thanks to this, it has a positive impact on its durability, efficiency and overall operating time.