Do Oil-Filled Transformers Need a Containment Pan?
If your facility uses oil-filled transformers to convert energy and they contain more than 1,320 gallons of oil, you may be subject to the Spill Prevention, Control and Countermeasure (SPCC) Rule. The primary goal of the SPCC Rule is to contain oil discharges and prevent these discharges from reaching navigable waters and adjoining shorelines. Specific rules apply […]
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“Crime Scene Investigator” Identifies Usual Suspects of Premature Transformer Failure
Evidence reveals how to avoid transformers that wind up dying well before their time. Spoiler alert: There’s no substitute for quality. When it comes to big-ticket items, power transformers come near the top of the list. So, when they fail prematurely, it is a painful experience with damages that can far exceed the cost of a […]
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Custom Bus Work on Transformers
When you purchase a replacement or retrofit transformer, most likely its high-voltage and low-voltage connections will not line up perfectly with your existing infrastructure due to differences in transformer models, ratings or designs. Low-voltage bus bar connections must line up perfectly with matching bolt holes and fasten together without distorting forces to ensure maximum conductance and prevent arcing. Each installation configuration is […]
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Should Dry Type Transformers Be Installed Indoors or Outdoors?
Dry type transformers are typically one of a power system’s most critical and costly components. To achieve an optimal return on your investment, it’s critical that you select a transformer with the proper voltage and rating while following the appropriate installation protocols. Choosing a location that complies with all safety codes while not interfering with […]
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Investing in a High-Quality Transformer Design
Replacing a failed transformer comes as an unwelcome surprise with an unanticipated and unavoidable expense. Facilities managers are immediately faced with two urgent questions — “How soon can we get power back?” and “How much is this going to cost?” The answers depend on some key decisions made in replacing the transformer, but the urgency of the questions implies that […]
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Why ELSCO Uses Class 220 Insulation in its Dry Type Transformers
ELSCO uses DuPont Nomex® Type 410 insulation exclusively in the windings of its medium-voltage dry type transformers because it provides the strongest protection against temperatureinduced failure for the longest period of time. Nomex® 410 is a NEMA/IEC Class 220 insulating material, for which the maximum allowable exposure temperature for safe use is 220°C. Insulation Has […]
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Industries That Use Transformers the Most
Many industrial and commercial operations depend on transformers to convert high voltages of electricity into smaller voltages they can use. Depending on the specific application, different transformer types with various ratings and capacities work better than others. ELSCO Transformers offers the high-performance dry type and padmount transformers that businesses nationwide trust the most. Top Industries That Utilize Transformers Examples […]
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When Do Most Transformers Begin to Fail?
Aside from regular maintenance requirements, most operations only pay attention to their transformers once they begin failing. In a perfect world, a new transformer will provide continuous, uninterrupted service for several decades. However, lesser-quality builds often produce much shorter life spans, resulting in power interruptions and unwanted downtime. Initials Signs of Transformer Failure When a […]
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C-Rise Insulation Options for Dry Type Transformers
Because transformers convert power into higher or lower voltages, they generate heat as a byproduct. This heat causes increased temperatures in the transformer’s internal components, including the primary and secondary windings. A transformer’s temperature rise — or C-rise — is the average temperature of the windings in Celsius over the surrounding temperature when the transformer […]
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Warranties for Dry Type Transformers
Transformer manufacturers help meet the power needs of many applications for a broad industry range. Choosing a reliable manufacturer can ensure your transformers adhere to design specifications, deliver to you on time and provide long life spans. The most reputable transformer manufacturers stand above the competition by offering some of the industry’s most comprehensive product […]
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