Types and Applications of Oil-Immersed Transformers

Time：2024-09-29    Auther：ZTelec-www.ztelectransformer.com

In modern power systems, transformers play a vital role as essential electrical equipment. Oil-immersed transformers are widely used in various power transmission and distribution systems due to their excellent insulation properties, heat dissipation capabilities, and weather resistance. This article will systematically explore the types and applications of oil-immersed transformers to better understand their importance in the power industry.

Definition and Working Principle of Oil-Immersed Transformers

An oil-immersed transformer is a type of transformer that uses insulating oil as a cooling and insulating medium. Its basic working principle involves transferring electrical energy from one circuit to another through electromagnetic induction, thereby achieving voltage conversion (either stepping up or stepping down). A transformer mainly consists of a core, windings, insulating oil, an oil tank, and other accessories. When alternating current flows through the primary winding, it generates a varying magnetic field that induces electromotive force in the core, resulting in current generation in the secondary winding.

Types of Oil-Immersed Transformers：

Oil-immersed transformers can be classified based on their structure, usage, and cooling method, primarily into the following categories:

1. By Structure

Single-Phase Transformer: Primarily used in small power systems, suitable for low voltage and small load applications, commonly found in residential or small industrial equipment.

Three-Phase Transformer: Widely used in most industrial and power transmission settings, effectively meeting the demands for high power and voltage, suitable for high-voltage transmission and large distribution systems.

2. By Usage

Distribution Transformer: Used in medium to low voltage distribution networks, responsible for converting high voltage electrical energy into low voltage suitable for user consumption, widely applied in residential and commercial areas.

Power Transformer: Mainly used for high-voltage transmission, capable of handling higher loads, suitable for power companies for long-distance electricity transmission.

Special Transformers: Includes isolation transformers, auto transformers, and others, used in applications with special power demands.

3. By Cooling Method

Natural Oil-Cooled Transformer (ONAN): Utilizes the natural circulation of insulating oil to dissipate heat, suitable for relatively low power applications.

Forced Oil-Cooled Transformer (ONAF): Enhances cooling effects through forced circulation by an oil pump, suitable for high power or high ambient temperature applications.

Applications of Oil-Immersed Transformers

Thanks to their unique advantages, oil-immersed transformers are widely used in various fields, including:

1. Power Systems

Oil-immersed transformers play a crucial role in power systems. Whether in power plants, substations, or distribution networks, they are extensively used for the transmission and conversion of electrical energy. High-voltage power transformers effectively improve transmission efficiency, reduce losses, and ensure stable power supply.

2. Industrial Production

In various industrial processes, oil-immersed transformers provide a stable power source, ensuring the normal operation of equipment. Particularly in industries such as heavy machinery, metallurgy, electrolysis, and electroplating, the reliability of transformers directly affects production efficiency and product quality.

3. Renewable Energy

With the development of renewable energy, oil-immersed transformers are also beginning to be used in wind power generation, solar energy, and other fields. In these applications, transformers not only perform the task of energy conversion but also effectively manage fluctuations in energy output to ensure grid stability.

4. Marine Engineering

Oil-immersed transformers are equally significant in marine engineering. Their corrosion resistance and high-temperature tolerance allow them to operate stably in harsh marine environments, being widely used in offshore wind power and marine oil extraction fields.

oil-immersed transformers play a crucial role in modern power systems. Their various types and extensive application scenarios not only enhance the efficiency of power transmission and distribution but also provide stable power support across various sectors, including industrial, commercial, and residential. In the future, with ongoing technological advancements, the application of oil-immersed transformers in emerging fields such as renewable energy and smart grids will become more widespread, further highlighting their importance. Adapting to new conditions and promoting the optimization and upgrading of oil-immersed transformers will be an essential direction for the future development of power equipment.