Difference Between Dry type transformers vs.

Oil-filled transformers

Cooling medium
The most significant difference in both the transformers is that Dry type transformers use air
as a cooling medium. On the other hand, Oil-filled transformers use oil as a cooling medium.
Different types of dry type transformers are used at most public places as the oil-filled ones
are susceptible to catch fire. That’s why they are used mostly in outdoor settings where even
if there’s a leak, it doesn’t lead to a significant hazard. However, you will see dry types used
more frequently and can find them in transportation hubs and office buildings.
Cost
On the contrary to a cooling medium, oil-filled transformers are inexpensive than dry type
ones. This is because they operate on standard energy efficiency, making them reliable and
giving a long lifespan. Dry transformers have a significantly high operating loss, so they use
more energy, leading to extra operation costs. However, the initial cost isn’t that much of a
difference.
Maintenance
In terms of maintenance, the dry type transformers triumph over oil-filled ones. They do not
require heavy maintenance and work seamlessly for a long time. Oil-filled transformers need
more attention as the oil needs to be frequently tested for chemical contamination. Dry
transformers do not need to be taken off the grid if a minor incident occurs. However, oil-
filled are riskier as they can lead to a potential hazard even if a small accident occurs.
Noise
Oil-filled transformers operate smoothly and thus make negligible noise. However, dry type
transformers make more noise as they use air which rotates inside the machine. Therefore,
they lead to higher noise pollution than their counterparts. They are noisier and irritate
anyone who comes near them.
Energy efficiency
One of the most significant points of difference is in energy efficiency. Dry type transformers
lead to higher energy loss because they are large in size and limited in voltage. Also, they get
overheated when there is overloading, making them less energy efficient. Oil-filled
transformers are small and create a lower environmental footprint, leading to less energy
consumption. They are ultimately much more energy-efficient than dry ones.
Installation site
Another major aspect is the installation site. Dry type transformers are explicitly used in
buildings because they are less riskier and more environmentally safer. They are also less
flammable, and that’s why used in shopping malls, corporate offices, and more. Oil-filled
transformers are mostly installed in outdoor locations due to the possibility of an oil leak that
 could lead to a significant hazard. However, they are more environmentally friendly than dry
ones.
Considering the above factors, oil-filled transformers appear to be a better option. However,
the decision ultimately depends on where you want to install it and how much risk you are
willing to take. For indoor operations, however, dry type transformers are the best choice.

Enviro
nment
Mainte Operational Initial Voltage Fire
Noise Cooling al Efficiency Location size
nance Cost Cost range hazard
Compa
tibility
Slightly
lower,
Significantly Smaller
Slightly
Dry type Low Higher high Lower(air) Higher Lower with indoor and limited Low
lower
increasing lighter
temp(high
loading)
Low(
High,
Oil workin
because Slightly Wide
immerse Lower g Higher(oil) Lower High outdoor larger Higher
of the higher range
d smoot
oil
hly)

COMPARISON RESULTS OF ELECTRICAL PARAMETERS

A. Voltage Gradient
Figs. 2 and 3 show contour plots of the voltage distribution in oil-immersed and dry-type
transformers. The graphical outputs provide a reference glimpse of the voltage gradient in
oil-immersed and dry-type transformers winding. The results clarify that the potential
difference is much more evenly distributed in an oil-immersed transformer than in air (dry-
type transformer). The non-uniform voltage distribution affects the insulation properties of
the dielectric medium by lowering the breakdown voltage of the insulating material as
compared to a uniform voltage distribution. The uneven distribution of voltage also creates
concentrated stress in certain parts of the winding that causes electric and magnetic field
stresses to accumulate on the lesser cross sectional areas, of insulation. Therefore, there is a
need to use much thicker insulation in dry-type transformers than in oil-immersed
transformers.
 B. Flux Density
Figs. 4 and 5 show contour plots for oil-immersed and dry type transformers of the flux
density distribution. The graphical outputs compare the flux density distribution in both
types of transformers, where the oil dielectric medium provides much more coherent flux
lines than air as indicated by the color spectrum spread. It is clear from Fig. 4 that the flux
density is not uniform along the cross-section of the core. The uneven flux density
distribution inside the transformer core would cause the no-load loss of the core to be higher
than if the core was uniformly magnetized at the nominal flux density. The no-load losses
include core/hysteresis loss, dielectric loss and copper loss in the winding due to the
excitation current.

C. Electric Field Intensity

The electric field intensity, which is defined as the strength of electric field at any point, or
the force per unit charge, depends on the material characteristics. Under the influence of
uneven electric field regions, the particles move towards either high or low field regions
because the forces acting on the two ends do not balance. In this situation, the insulator may
potentially act as a conducting path between two different potentials within the transformer
structure, leading to partial discharge or insulation failure. Since the electric field intensity
lines for oil-immersed transformers are more coherent, they have better insulation
properties than dry-type transformers. The results are the same as for the flux density; the
electrical field lines in oil are more coherent.
D. Voltage Gradient Close-Up
Close-up views of the voltage gradient are shown in Figs. 8and 9. The graphical output shows
that the voltage gradient for dry-type transformers shows stress points (path deviation)along
the conductor cross-section and touch points, whereas in oil-immersed transformers the
gradient lines are smooth and coherent.

CONCLUSION
Numerical calculations of dry-type and oil-immersed transformer cores and windings using
FEM were carried out in order to provide an explanation of the electrical performance of the
transformers for comparison. The results of the voltage, flux density and electrical-field
intensity distribution in air and oil dielectric media have been evaluated. The study suggests
that, based on electrical performance, oil-immersed transformers are superior to dry-type
transformers. Oil-filled transformers are more efficient, with an efficiency range higher than
99%, because they have less loss and a higher breakdown voltage than dry-type
transformers.