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Siemens is supplying more than 100 distribution transformers outfitted with biodegradable insulating fluids to one of the largest grid operators in Germany. For Siemens, it is the largest contract ever for distribution transformers of this kind.
Because distribution transformers are the last link in the transmission of electricity to consumers, they are often located close to buildings or in residential areas, making it preferable to avoid use of potentially flammable insulating fluids. In the context of a pilot project, Netze BW, the biggest grid operator in the southwest German state of Baden Württemberg, has taken delivery of the first distribution transformers equipped with biodegradable insulating fluids.
Higher Flash Point
The new transformers are filled with natural ester – a plant-based liquid made from renewable raw materials, such as rapeseed, sunflowers or soybeans that serves as an insulating fluid and liquid coolant. Mineral and silicone oils have commonly been used for this purpose to date. However, if such liquids are spilled, they are harmful to the environment and easily flammable. Ester is the green alternative to these fluids, which is almost fully biodegradable. As a result, a transformer leak has far fewer negative consequences than other traditional liquids. Due to its higher flash point, ester also offers better fire protection, which makes transformer operation even safer. Ester-filled transformers are a particularly safe, clean, and environmentally compatible solution for water protection areas and nature reserves as well as for areas with particularly high fire protection requirements. What’s more, laboratory tests have demonstrated that the special paper that is used as an insulating material in distribution transformers ages more slowly when immersed in esters and in the absence of oxygen, thus extending the transformers’ service life.
Ester: Setting a New Standard?
Siemens has many years of experience in using alternative fluids in transformers. The company has been producing large power transformers that contain ester insulating fluid since 2004 and is a world leader in this field. To date, distribution transformers with synthetic ester insulation have mainly been produced for use in wind farms.
The distribution transformers at Netze BW will therefore benefit from Siemens’ experience. For this innovation project, Siemens is now delivering 102 transformers insulated with natural ester. It is the biggest contract for distribution transformers with natural ester insulation in the company’s history. The pilot project was kicked off on June 10 with the symbolic push of a button in a local substation in Baden-Württemberg. In cooperation with Siemens, Stuttgart University, and the Institute for Energy and Environmental Research in Heidelberg, Netze BW is monitoring the vegetable-oil-filled transformers and will evaluate the results produced over one year of operation. The grid operator plans to use the resulting data to determine whether natural ester might be usable as a standard insulating fluid and liquid coolant in the future.
Contact:
Mr. Dr Norbert Aschenbrenner
Editorial Office
Siemens AG
norbert.aschenbrenner@siemens.com
Original Internet Article:
https://www.siemens.com/innovation/en/home/pictures-of-the-future/energy-and-eff...
Netze BW, the biggest grid operator in the southwest German state of Baden Württemberg, has ordered ...
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Elektrotechnik, Umwelt / Ökologie
überregional
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Netze BW, the biggest grid operator in the southwest German state of Baden Württemberg, has ordered ...
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