During last year, dry-type transformer specialist Trafo Power Solutions was contracted to supply two custom-engineered mini-substations to a significant motor plant expansion near Pretoria.
A 500 kVA mini-substation with cast resin type transformers in an outdoor installation.
The two units will be located outdoors, serving to power the lighting system and security requirements of the facility, as well as other loads. While most mini-substations are equipped with conventional oil-cooled transformers, these units have dry-type transformers – which deliver a number of benefits to the customer.
David Claassen, Managing Director of Trafo Power Solutions, says these include security and environmental factors.
“Mini-substations are used by the private and public sectors and often are located in unprotected areas, making them vulnerable to vandalism and theft,” Claassen says. “Oil-cooled transformers are targeted for the copper in their windings, as well as the oil in the cooling system.”
By contrast, in dry-type transformers the windings are cast in resin so the copper or aluminium cannot be readily accessed. There is also no oil in dry-type transformers, further reducing the incentive for criminals to vandalise the structure.
“In terms of environmental considerations, dry-type transformers do not require any additional protective structures like walls or bunds to contain leaking oil or fire,” he adds. “And these units require very little maintenance, easing the managerial and technical burden on the owner.”
The two transformers for the Pretoria motor plant are manufactured by TMC Transformers in Italy, the company with which Trafo has a longstanding relationship, and the design and manufacture of the balance of components of the mini-substations is carried out in South Africa. “This gives Trafo Power Solutions a high level of control over the quality of the final product,” says Claassen. “It also allows us to fully test the equipment locally before it is delivered, installed and commissioned on site,” he says. “We embrace the opportunity to manufacture locally as much as we can, to support local industries and job creation.”
For more information visit: www.trafo.co.za
