Analysing the Suitability of Using Different Biodegradable Fluids for Power Transformers with Thermally Upgraded Paper

Cristina Méndez, Cristian Olmo, Ismael Antolín, Alfredo Ortiz and Carlos J. Renedo ()
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Cristina Méndez: Department of Electrical and Energy Engineering, Universidad de Cantabria, 39005 Santander, Spain
Cristian Olmo: Department of Electrical and Energy Engineering, Universidad de Cantabria, 39005 Santander, Spain
Ismael Antolín: Department of Electrical and Energy Engineering, Universidad de Cantabria, 39005 Santander, Spain
Alfredo Ortiz: Department of Electrical and Energy Engineering, Universidad de Cantabria, 39005 Santander, Spain
Carlos J. Renedo: Department of Electrical and Energy Engineering, Universidad de Cantabria, 39005 Santander, Spain

Sustainability, 2024, vol. 16, issue 8, 1-18

Abstract: Mineral oil has been used for many years in various electrical equipment, including transformers, as a cooling and insulation medium. However, its low biodegradability and poor performance in terms of fire protection have prompted the search for fluids to replace it, with vegetable oils being prominently considered. In this study, the dielectric, chemical, and physical properties of four vegetable oils obtained from different seeds (sunflower, rapeseed, soybean, and palm) and a biodegradable synthetic fluid are analysed throughout their lifespan in transformers. Their performances are compared with a traditional mineral oil to assess which one is more suitable for use in transformers employing this type of paper. To achieve this, the fluids were subjected to thermal ageing in combination with copper and a thermally upgraded kraft (TUK) paper, with its degradation controlled by measuring the degree of polymerisation. The results demonstrate that the origin of the vegetable oils affects their properties and degradation rates. It was found that most of the alternative fluids are suitable for use in transformers with the TUK paper and that they can increase their lifespan.

Keywords: biodegradable fluids; esters; dielectric insulation; degradation; power transformers (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
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