Trafo Power Solutions has designed a dry-type transformer that can work at a temperature of minus 40⁰C at an altitude equivalent to the base camp of Mount Everest.

The company provided a 3,000kVA transformer for Kyrgyzstan's gold mine expansion project, with primary 6,3kV and secondary 400V specifications, which will operate at an altitude of 4,020 meters.

“In terms of cooling, altitude alone presents a special challenge to the design,” said David Claassen, Managing Director of Trafo Power Solutions. “Most large electrical equipment has a rated height of 1,000 meters or less, so we had to reduce the equipment’s rating to take into account the altitude. The higher the location, the lower the cooling efficiency-the temperature range on site is minus 40°C to Between positive 25⁰C."

The 8 ton outdoor transformer has a specially designed housing to prevent the ingress of snow, dust and moisture, while also dissipating heat. Claassen points out that there is a risk of condensation when shutting down the transformer under these conditions. 

"Therefore, we built a control system in the design to automatically heat the housing when the transformer stops running for any reason," he said. "Of course, once the transformer returns to operation, the heater will turn off again."

Under harsh environmental conditions, the shell is coated with a corrosion-resistant C5 paint scheme. The design also includes a neutral grounding resistor with special surge protection components. He emphasized that Trafo Power Solution's strategic partner TMC Transformers-a leading manufacturer based in Italy-has extensive experience in producing transformers for these harsh conditions.

"Dry-type transformers are very suitable for these cold conditions because there is no fluid involved in the cooling process, and it is fairly simple to provide the necessary heating and cooling as needed," he said. "Almost no maintenance is required, which is a big advantage in remote areas like this."

"Online factory acceptance testing uses communication technology and cameras around the test bench, including cameras for technicians who are focused on performing the test," Claassen said. "This allows the customer to check all aspects of the specification in detail and freely interact with the TMC and Trafo Power Solutions teams during the witness test."

Source and image provided by Trafo Power Solutions

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