Advantages and Disadvantages of Dry-Type Transformers

Posted by servocare on November 25th, 2019

Dry-type transformers occupy a major role in different power-based activities today. Let’s know why.

Today, electrical appliances are in flair in all sectors. It’s important to check if the equipment is functioning normally or not. Often, voltage fluctuations and current imbalances do arise due to some problems. They disturb the routine function of the equipment and lead in operational losses and financial problems. If the frequency of such problems increases, then it will be quite irritating and bothersome to rectify them. Dry-type transformers are the best electrical devices for voltage regulation and assure the outstanding trouble-free performance of different types of equipment.

Dry-Type Transformers

Dry-type transformers, as the name says, use air for cooling means. They have appropriate ventilation means to allow air to flow through the coils. To improve their function, they are even designed with cast coils, vacuum pressure encapsulation; cast resin, and so on.

These transformers have been prominently used in many industrial firms, power-plants, construction places, and so on. But, how far is it worthy to use them? To know this, one should understand their pros and cons.

Advantages of Dry-Type Transformers

Dry-type transformers adopt several beneficial features as they use air for cooling. Some of them are –

• Avoid Dangers and Hazards

Generally, there are risks of fire hazards and accidents when using oil-cooled transformers. As dry-type transformers do not use oil, the windings are let to be fire-retardant and they avoid such dangers and are safe to use anywhere. No explosions can occur by using these transformers.  

• Environmental-Friendly Option

When using oil for cooling in the transformer, there may be oil-leakage and air pollution. But, dry-type transformers do not raise air pollution and so they are environmentally friendly to use. It’s safe to choose such transformers to enhance a green environment.

• Easy Installation Processes

It is easy to install the dry-type transformers. When using oil-cooled transformers, one should consider the size of the oil tank, check the location once, and then install them. But, these dry-type ones do not have such considerations; it is easy to install anywhere – indoors or outdoors.

• Low Maintenance Costs

Dry-type transformers do not have moving parts. They have a smooth coil surface that doesn’t get so dirty. So, cleaning is so easy. As they do not have oil, it’s not necessary to test the oil. So, the maintenance is also less and the associated costs are also low.

However, they have some cons to consider.

Disadvantages of Dry-Type Transformers

• Expensive than Oil-Cooled Transformers

The price of dry-type transformers is much more when compared to that of oil-cooled models. So, one should consider the application and price when planning to purchase dry-type transformers.

• Repair Difficulties

It is difficult to repair dry-type transformers in case of any problems. If there is a failure in windings, then the entire set-up has to be changed. The primary and secondary windings along with the limb have to be changed to reset it. So, the repairing costs will also be higher.

• Noisy

Dry-type transformers make much noise and so, it’s not suitable to use them indoors. However, they can be used for several outdoor applications as there won’t be any disturbance.

• Unexpected Coil Problems

During cleaning, one should be so careful without which the coils may be damaged. Then, the entire unit may not function.

Where are Dry-Type Transformers Used?

As dry-type transformers do not use oil, they prevent hazards and fire risks. So, they are useful for power-based applications in environmentally-sensitive places and forests. They are also used in substations in inner cities. They can be used indoors in commercial buildings, high-rise apartments, hospitals, and light manufacturing facilities. They have specialized cooling ducts to allow heat transfer to air.

Dry-type transformers are also used in -

• Chemical and gas industries
• Oil refineries
• Construction Houses
• Pharma industries
• Mining industries
• Indoor substations and underground substations
• Wind turbines, solar power plants

So, when you want to purchase the right dry-type transformer, consider these advantages, disadvantages, and applications. Also, identify the capacity or power rating, primary and secondary windings, and frequency before choosing the unit. There are many dry-type transformer manufacturers in Hyderabad – Servomax Limited is one such best company manufacturing customized models within affordable prices.