Dry Type Transformers

A dry-type transformer, also known as a cast resin transformer or a non-liquid-

filled transformer, is an electrical transformer that does not use any liquid
coolant like oil.
Instead, it uses air or a solid insulation material to cool and insulate its
components. The main parts of a dry-type transformer include:

In the upcoming sections of this article, we will delve into a detailed discussion
of the main parts of a dry-type transformer. However, for now, here’s a brief
overview.
1. Core: Provides a magnetic path for the transformer’s operation.
2. Windings: Consist of primary and secondary windings for input and
output voltage transformation.
3. Insulation: Insulates the windings and core to prevent electrical
breakdown.
4. Enclosure: Protects the transformer and contains the components.
5. Terminals and Bushings: Connect the transformer to the electrical
system.
6. Cooling System: Allows for heat dissipation, either through natural
convection or forced-air cooling.
7. Tap Changer (optional): Adjusts the output voltage if necessary.

8. Grounding System: Safely directs fault currents to the ground for

safety.
These components collectively enable the dry-type transformer to function
effectively in various electrical applications.

Why Do We Use Dry Type Transformers?

Dry-type transformers are used for various reasons and in a wide range of
applications due to their specific advantages and characteristics. Here are
some key reasons why dry-type transformers are used:
1. Fire Safety: One of the primary reasons for using dry-type transformers
is their inherent fire safety. Unlike oil-filled transformers, which use
flammable mineral oil, dry-type transformers use air or solid insulation
materials (such as epoxy resin) for cooling and insulation. This
 significantly reduces the risk of fire, making them suitable for indoor
installations and areas with strict fire safety regulations.
2. Environmental Considerations: Dry-type transformers are more
environmentally friendly because they do not contain hazardous oils that
can potentially leak and contaminate the environment. This makes them
a preferred choice in environmentally sensitive locations, such as near
water bodies or in regions with strict environmental regulations.
3. Indoor Applications: Dry-type transformers are well-suited for indoor
applications, including commercial buildings, hospitals, data centers,
tunnels, and industrial facilities. They are often used in locations where
the risk of oil spills or leaks is unacceptable.
4. Maintenance Efficiency: Dry-type transformers generally require less
maintenance compared to oil-filled transformers. There is no need to
monitor oil levels, conduct oil testing, or deal with oil-related issues.
This can result in lower operational costs over the transformer’s
lifetime.
5. Compact Design: Dry-type transformers are available in compact
designs, making them suitable for installations with limited space. They
can be installed closer to loads without the need for special containment
structures.
6. Environmental Considerations: Dry-type transformers are more
environmentally friendly because they do not contain hazardous oils that
can potentially leak and contaminate the environment. This makes them
a preferred choice in environmentally sensitive locations, such as near
water bodies or in regions with strict environmental regulations.
7. Longer Operational Life: Dry-type transformers often have a longer
operational life compared to oil-filled transformers, as they are less
prone to insulation degradation caused by oil impurities or heat.
8. Reduced Risk of Oil Leaks: Since dry-type transformers do not use oil,
there is no risk of oil leaks or spills, which can be a significant concern
with oil-filled transformers. This feature is especially important in areas
where oil contamination is a risk to the local ecosystem.

9. Safety Regulations: In some regions and industries, safety regulations

and codes may require the use of dry-type transformers, especially in
buildings and facilities where fire safety is a top priority.
1. Noise Considerations: Dry-type transformers tend to produce less noise
compared to oil-filled transformers, making them suitable for
applications in noise-sensitive environments.
While dry-type transformers offer many advantages, they may not be
suitable for all applications, particularly those requiring high power ratings
or extensive overload capabilities.

The choice between dry-type and oil-filled transformers should be made

based on the specific requirements of the electrical system, safety
regulations, environmental concerns, and other factors relevant to the
installation.
Types of Dry-Type Transformers
Dry-type transformers come in various types and designs to meet different
voltage and application requirements.

The choice of a specific type depends on factors such as voltage level,

power capacity, environmental conditions, and safety regulations.
1. Open-Wound (VPI) Transformers:
o Vacuum Pressure Impregnated (VPI) transformers are among the
most common types of dry-type transformers.
o They have windings that are individually insulated and then
impregnated with epoxy resin under vacuum pressure.
o VPI transformers provide good protection against moisture, making
them suitable for indoor and outdoor applications with moderate
environmental exposure.
2. Cast Coil Transformers:
o Cast coil transformers are designed with the windings completely
enclosed in epoxy resin.
o This type of transformer offers excellent protection against moisture,
dust, and other contaminants.
o Cast coil transformers are often used in harsh environments, such as
chemical plants and marine applications.
3. Encapsulated Transformers:
o Encapsulated transformers have their windings enclosed in epoxy or
other resin materials.
o They are sealed to protect against moisture and environmental
factors.
 o Encapsulated transformers are suitable for indoor and outdoor
applications and are often used in locations where oil-filled
transformers are not acceptable.
4. Self-Air Cooled Transformers:
o Self-air cooled transformers rely on natural convection for cooling.
o They are designed with cooling fins or coils to facilitate heat
dissipation.
o These transformers are often used in low-to-medium power
applications and indoor environments.
5. Forced-Air Cooled Transformers:
o Forced-air cooled transformers use fans or blowers to enhance
cooling.
o They are suitable for applications where higher power ratings or
better cooling performance are required.
o Forced-air cooled transformers are commonly used in industrial
settings.
6. K-Rated Transformers:
o K-rated transformers are specifically designed to handle non-linear
loads created by devices such as computers, variable frequency drives
(VFDs), and LED lighting systems.
o They have special winding designs and insulation to minimize the
effects of harmonic currents and voltage distortion.
7. Drive Isolation Transformers:

Drive isolation transformers are used to isolate and protect variable

o
frequency drives (VFDs) and other sensitive electronic equipment
from power line disturbances.
o They often have low leakage inductance and are designed to handle
the high-frequency switching harmonics generated by VFDs.
8. Harmonic Mitigating Transformers:
o Harmonic mitigating transformers are designed to reduce the levels of
harmonic currents and voltage distortion in power systems.
o They are used in applications where harmonic distortion can cause
problems, such as overheating of equipment or interference with
other electronic devices.

9. Low-Voltage Dry-Type Transformers:

 o Low-voltage dry-type transformers are designed for use in low-
voltage distribution systems, typically up to 600 volts.
o They are commonly used in buildings, industrial facilities, and
commercial installations.
10. Medium-Voltage Dry-Type Transformers:
o Medium-voltage dry-type transformers are designed for higher
voltage levels, typically ranging from 601 volts to several thousand
volts.
o They are used in industrial applications, substations, and power
distribution systems.
These are some of the common types of dry-type transformers, and each
type is designed to meet specific voltage, power, and environmental
requirements.

The choice of the appropriate type of dry-type transformer depends on

the needs of the electrical system and the conditions of the installation
site.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Dry-Type Transformers
Dry-type transformers offer several advantages and disadvantages
compared to oil-type transformers.

These characteristics make them suitable for certain applications while

limiting their use in others. Here are the key advantages and disadvantages
of dry-type transformers:

Advantages of Dry-Type Transformers:

1. Fire Safety: Dry-type transformers are inherently safer in terms of fire
risk because they do not use flammable oil as a cooling and insulating
medium. This makes them suitable for indoor applications where fire
safety is a concern.
2. Environmental Friendly: Dry-type transformers are more
environmentally friendly as they do not contain hazardous oils that can
potentially leak and contaminate the environment. They are easier to
handle and dispose of at the end of their operational life.
3. Low Maintenance: Dry-type transformers generally require less
maintenance compared to oil-filled transformers. There is no need to
monitor oil levels or deal with oil quality. This can result in lower
operational costs.
4. Compact Design: Dry-type transformers are available in compact
designs, making them suitable for installations with limited space.
5. No Oil Leaks: Since there is no oil, there is no risk of oil leaks or spills ,
which can be a significant concern with oil-filled transformers.
6. Suitable for Indoor Use: Dry-type transformers are well-suited for
indoor applications, including buildings, tunnels, and substations located
in populated areas.
7. Longer Operational Life: Dry-type transformers often have a longer
operational life compared to oil-filled transformers, as they are less
prone to insulation degradation caused by oil impurities or heat.
Disadvantages of Dry-Type Transformers:
1. Limited Cooling Capacity: Dry-type transformers may have limited
cooling capacity compared to oil-filled transformers. They may require
forced air cooling systems , which can add to the cost and complexity of
the installation.
2. Lower Overload Capacity: Dry-type transformers generally have lower
overload capacity compared to oil-filled transformers of the same size.
This means they may be less suitable for applications with frequent
overloads.
3. Size and Weight: Dry-type transformers are typically larger and heavier
than oil-filled transformers with the same power rating due to the need
for larger cooling surfaces and insulation. This can be a disadvantage in
installations with space constraints.
4. Higher Initial Cost: Dry-type transformers can have a higher initial
purchase cost compared to oil-filled transformers, although this cost
difference may be offset by lower maintenance and safety-related
expenses over time.
5. Limited Voltage and Power Ratings: Dry-type transformers may have
limited voltage and power ratings compared to large oil-filled
transformers, which can make them unsuitable for certain high-power
applications.
6. Noise Levels: Dry-type transformers can produce higher noise levels
compared to oil-filled transformers, which may be a concern in quiet
environments.
7. Reduced Efficiency at High Temperatures: Dry-type transformers
may experience reduced efficiency at high ambient temperatures due to
limited cooling capacity.
In summary, dry-type transformers are a preferred choice for
applications where fire safety, environmental concerns, and
minimal maintenance are critical factors.
However, they may not be suitable for all applications, particularly those
requiring high power ratings, extensive overload capabilities, or where
space is limited.

The choice between dry-type and oil-filled transformers should be based on

the specific requirements of the electrical system and the surrounding
environment.

Difference between Dry Type And Oil Type

Transformers?
Dry-type transformers and oil-type transformers are two common types of
electrical transformers used in various applications.

They differ primarily in their cooling and insulation methods, making them
suitable for different environments and applications. Here are the key
differences between dry-type transformers and oil-type transformers:

1. Cooling Method:
o Dry-Type Transformer:
 Dry-type transformers use air or a solid insulation material (such
as epoxy resin) to cool and insulate the windings.
 Cooling is achieved through natural convection (air circulation) or
forced convection (using fans) inside the transformer enclosure.
 They are suitable for indoor applications where the risk of oil
leaks or fires is a concern, as they do not contain flammable
liquids.
o Oil-Type Transformer:
 Oil-type transformers use mineral oil or synthetic oil as a
coolant and insulating medium.
 The oil serves both as a coolant and insulator, dissipating heat
generated during operation.
 They are often used in outdoor or high-power applications where
the heat dissipation requirements are greater.
2. Fire Safety:
o Dry-Type Transformer:
  Dry-type transformers are considered safer in terms of fire hazards
because they do not contain flammable oil.
 They are commonly used in buildings, tunnels, and other indoor
environments where fire safety is a concern.
o Oil-Type Transformer:
 Oil-type transformers use flammable mineral oil as a coolant and
insulating medium, which poses a higher fire risk.
 Additional fire protection measures, such as containment systems
and fire-resistant barriers, are often required when installing oil-
filled transformers.
3. Environmental Impact:
o Dry-Type Transformer:
 Dry-type transformers are more environmentally friendly as they
do not contain hazardous oils that can potentially leak and harm
the environment.
 They are easier to handle and dispose of when they reach the end
of their operational life.
o Oil-Type Transformer:
 Oil-filled transformers require special care and precautions to
prevent oil leaks, spills, and contamination of soil and water.
 Spills or leaks of transformer oil can have adverse environmental
impacts and may require costly cleanup efforts.
4. Maintenance:
o Dry-Type Transformer:
 Dry-type transformers generally require less maintenance
compared to oil-filled transformers.
 There is no need to monitor oil levels or deal with oil leaks and oil
quality.
o Oil-Type Transformer:
 Oil-filled transformers require regular monitoring of oil levels,
quality, and insulation integrity.
 Maintenance includes oil testing, filtration, and occasional oil
replacement to ensure proper operation and longevity.

5. Size and Weight:

o Dry-Type Transformer:
  Dry-type transformers are typically larger and heavier than oil-
filled transformers with the same power rating due to the need for
larger cooling surfaces and insulation.
o Oil-Type Transformer:
 Oil-filled transformers are more compact and lightweight for the
same power rating, making them suitable for applications with
space constraints.
The choice between a dry-type and an oil-type transformer depends on
factors such as the application, environmental considerations, fire safety
requirements, maintenance capabilities, and available space.
Each type has its advantages and limitations, and the selection should be
based on the specific needs of the electrical system and safety regulations
in place.

How Do You Test A Dry Transformer?

Among the routine tests that should be conducted on all dry-type power
transformers are:

Dielectric Test:
The applied voltage waveform for single-phase should be roughly
sinusoidal. The test must be carried out at the prescribed frequency.

Before disconnecting, the test voltage must be rapidly lowered to 1/3 of the
maximum value. All of the windings must be tested. If no failure occurs at
the ultimate test voltage, the test is considered successful.

Induced Voltage Test:

While performing this test, the test voltage must be double that of the rated
voltage. It should be applied between the terminals of the secondary
winding while keeping the primary winding open.

The test period at maximum voltage must be one minute, and the frequency
must be double the rated frequency.
Voltage ratio measurement:
On all tap changer locations, voltage ratio measurements and polarity and
connection checks must be done.

It’s also good to double-check the numbers allocated to the taps and the
ratings. Measurement of voltage ratio must be done phase by phase
between the terminals of matching windings. The voltage ratio is measured
using the potentiometric approach.

Load Loss Measurement and No-load Current:

Supply LV windings are used to perform this test at the rated frequency
and voltage. The waveform should be as close to a sine wave as feasible,
and the primary windings should be open.

The frequency of the test must not deviate by more than 1% from the rated
value. No-load current and loss, as well as the voltage’s mean and effective
values, must be monitored.

The average value of three measurements taken by effective value

ammeters will be used to calculate the no-load current.

When necessary, instrument transformers and transducers will be utilized

to measure the power with three-watt meters.
Measurement of Winding Resistance:
When the windings are at ambient temperature and without power for a
period of time sufficient to reach this State, winding resistance
measurement should be done.

According to the measurements must be done in direct current between

terminals. Temperatures in the surrounding environment must also be taken
into account. It will be calculated as the average of three thermal sensor
values.
Short Circuit Impedance:
The transformer’s performance is shown by the short-circuit loss and short-
circuit voltage. The transformer’s HV windings are powered while the LV
windings are short-circuited.
During the measurement, the current must be at IN or as near to this value
as feasible. During the measurement, each phase’s voltage, current, and
short-circuit losses should be monitored.
The measurement must be done quickly in order to prevent raising the
winding temperature due to the applied current, and the measuring current
must be kept between 25% and 100% of the rated current; by doing this,
the measurement inaccuracies are caused by the rise in winding
temperature will be reduced.

By performing all upper mentioned tests, you can ensure the proper
operations of your transformer; if test values are not according to the
correct operations values of the transformer conducted test will be
considered failed, and you need to take the necessary measures to fix the
fault to avoid any loss or incident.

How Long Do Dry-Type Transformers Last?

The lifespan of a dry-type transformer can vary significantly depending on
several factors, including its design, quality, operating conditions, and
maintenance.

On average, well-maintained dry-type transformers typically have a

service life of 20 to 40 years or more. However, some transformers can
last even longer under favorable conditions, while others may fail
prematurely.
Here are some key factors that can influence the lifespan of a dry-type
transformer:

1. Design and Quality: The quality of materials and manufacturing

processes used in the construction of the transformer can have a
significant impact on its lifespan. High-quality transformers are likely to
have longer service lives.
2. Operating Conditions: The operating conditions of the transformer,
such as load levels, temperature, and voltage stability, play a crucial
role. Transformers operated within their rated capacity and under stable
conditions are more likely to last longer.
3. Maintenance: Regular maintenance, including inspections, testing, and
cleaning, can help detect and address issues early, prolonging the
transformer’s life. Neglected transformers are more prone to failure.
4. Environmental Factors: The environmental conditions where the
transformer is installed can affect its lifespan. Transformers exposed to
 extreme temperatures, humidity, corrosive atmospheres, or other harsh
conditions may experience accelerated aging.
5. Electrical Stress: Overloading, voltage surges, and other electrical
stress factors can cause insulation breakdown and shorten the
transformer’s life.
6. Contaminants: Accumulation of dust, dirt, and contaminants on the
transformer’s components can reduce its cooling efficiency and lead to
overheating and premature failure.
7. Manufacturing Quality: Transformers with manufacturing defects or
quality control issues may be more prone to early failures.
It’s important to note that dry-type transformers can be rebuilt or
refurbished in some cases, which can extend their service life. However,
this may not always be a cost-effective option, depending on the extent of
the damage or wear.

To maximize the lifespan of a dry-type transformer, it’s essential to follow

manufacturer recommendations for maintenance, operate it within its rated
capacity, protect it from adverse environmental conditions, and monitor its
performance regularly.
What Is Protection Of Dry Type Transformers?
The protection of dry-type transformers is essential to ensure their safe and
reliable operation. Protection measures are put in place to prevent or
mitigate various electrical and mechanical faults that can occur in
transformers. Here are some of the key aspects of protection for dry-type
transformers:
1. Overcurrent Protection: Overcurrent protection devices, such as fuses
and circuit breakers, are used to safeguard dry-type transformers from
overloads and short circuits. These devices are installed on the primary
and secondary sides of the transformer. They interrupt the current flow
when it exceeds a predetermined threshold, preventing damage to the
transformer.
2. Temperature Monitoring: Transformers generate heat during
operation, and excessive temperatures can lead to insulation breakdown
and other issues. Temperature monitoring devices, such as temperature
sensors or thermocouples, are placed within the transformer windings or
on its surface to measure temperature. Alarms or protective actions are
triggered if the temperature exceeds safe limits.
3. Buchholz Relay: Buchholz relays are used in oil-filled transformers , but
they are not applicable to dry-type transformers since dry-type
transformers do not use oil as a coolant or insulating medium.
4. Pressure Relief Devices: Dry-type transformers are typically sealed,
and pressure relief devices are not commonly used. However, in some
designs, pressure relief devices may be employed to relieve internal
pressure in the event of a fault, preventing the transformer from
rupturing.
5. Grounding and Ground Fault Protection: Proper grounding of the
transformer and the use of ground fault protection devices are essential
to detect and clear ground faults promptly. Ground fault protection
devices can include ground fault relays and sensors.
6. Differential Protection: Differential protection is used to detect internal
winding or core faults in a transformer. Current transformers (CTs) are
used to measure the differential current between the primary and
secondary windings. Any imbalance in current indicates a fault, and the
protection system initiates a trip action.
7. Voltage Protection: Voltage protection devices, such as under-voltage
and over-voltage relays, can be used to protect the transformer from
voltage fluctuations and deviations beyond acceptable limits.
8. Surge Arresters: Surge arresters or lightning arresters are employed to
protect the transformer from voltage surges caused by lightning strikes
or switching events. They divert excess voltage to ground, preventing it
from reaching the transformer.
9. Insulation Monitoring: Periodic insulation resistance testing can help
identify deterioration in the insulation system of the transformer,
allowing for proactive maintenance and preventing insulation-related
faults.
10. Remote Monitoring and Control: Remote monitoring and control
systems can provide real-time data on the transformer’s performance,
allowing operators to respond quickly to abnormal conditions and
implement protective actions.
The specific protection measures and devices used for a dry-type
transformer depend on its application, size, and the criticality of the load it
serves.

Proper protection design and regular maintenance are crucial to ensure

the safe and reliable operation of dry-type transformers and to
minimize the risk of failure or damage.
What Causes A Dry-Type Transformer To Fail?
Dry-type transformers are designed to be durable and reliable, but they
can still fail for various reasons. Here are some common causes of failure
in dry-type transformers:
1. Overloading: Operating a transformer at a higher load than its rated
capacity can lead to overheating and insulation breakdown, ultimately
causing the transformer to fail. Overloading can occur due to changes in
load demand or improper sizing of the transformer for the application.
2. Insulation Degradation: Over time, the insulation materials used in
transformers can degrade due to factors like moisture ingress,
temperature extremes, and chemical contaminants. As insulation
deteriorates, it can lead to short circuits and other electrical faults.
3. Moisture Ingress: Moisture is one of the primary enemies
of transformer insulation . If moisture enters the transformer, it can
compromise the insulation properties and cause arcing, short circuits,
and reduced dielectric strength. This can result from improper storage,
exposure to humid environments, or damaged seals.
4. Overvoltage or Voltage Surges: Excessive voltage levels, voltage
spikes, or transient voltage surges can stress the insulation and windings
of a transformer. This can occur due to lightning strikes, switching
events, or faults in the power distribution system.
5. Contamination: Dust, dirt, and other contaminants can accumulate on
the transformer’s core and windings, reducing its cooling efficiency and
potentially causing hotspots. These hotspots can lead to insulation
breakdown and eventual failure.
6. Aging: Transformers have a finite lifespan, typically ranging from 20 to
40 years or more depending on their design and operating conditions. As
they age, the insulation and other materials can deteriorate, increasing
the risk of failure.
7. Mechanical Damage: Physical damage to a transformer, such as from
impact or vibration, can damage the winding or core, leading to internal
faults and failure.
8. Poor Maintenance: Inadequate or irregular maintenance can contribute
to transformer failure. Regular inspections, testing, and maintenance
procedures help identify and address issues before they escalate into
major problems.
9. Manufacturing Defects: In rare cases, transformers can have
manufacturing defects or quality control issues that lead to premature
 failure. This can include problems with winding connections, core
alignment, or insulation quality.
10. Environmental Factors: Extreme environmental conditions, such as
high temperatures, corrosive atmospheres, or seismic activity, can stress
the transformer and contribute to its failure.
To mitigate the risk of dry-type transformer failure, it’s essential to follow
proper maintenance practices, operate the transformer within its specified
load and voltage limits, protect it from environmental hazards, and address
any issues promptly through inspections and testing. Regular maintenance
and monitoring can help extend the life and reliability of a dry-type
transformer.

Can Dry Type Transformer Explode?

Dry-type transformers are less prone to catastrophic failures like
explosions, they are generally designed to be safe and do not contain
flammable liquids or gases like oil-filled transformers.
However, while dry-type transformers are less prone to catastrophic
failures like explosions, they can still experience mechanical and
electrical faults that may lead to certain hazards.
These hazards are typically not explosive in nature but can pose risks to
equipment and personnel. Here are some potential issues associated with
dry-type transformers:

1. Overheating: Dry-type transformers can overheat if they are overloaded

or subjected to excessive ambient temperatures. Prolonged overheating
can cause insulation breakdown and damage to the transformer, but it
typically does not result in an explosion.
2. Short Circuits: Short circuits can occur in dry-type transformers due to
insulation failure or other electrical faults. While short circuits can cause
fires and damage to the transformer, they do not lead to explosions like
oil-filled transformers.
3. Mechanical Failure: Mechanical failures, such as winding deformation
or core damage, can occur in dry-type transformers. These failures can
disrupt the transformer’s operation, but they do not result in explosive
events.
4. Pressure Relief: Some dry-type transformers are equipped with pressure
relief devices to release internal pressure in the event of a fault,
 preventing the transformer from rupturing. However, this is not an
explosive event; it is a controlled release of pressure.
5. Arcing and Fire: In cases of severe electrical faults, such as internal
arcing or prolonged short circuits, dry-type transformers can catch fire.
While transformer fires can be dangerous, they are not explosions.
It’s important to note that the design and construction of dry-type
transformers aim to minimize the risks associated with electrical and
mechanical faults.

Proper protection, maintenance, and monitoring are essential to ensure the

safe operation of dry-type transformers and to prevent faults from
escalating into hazardous situations.

In contrast, oil-filled transformers, which use flammable oil as an

insulating and cooling medium, pose a greater risk of explosion if there is a
catastrophic failure that results in the release of flammable oil and its
ignition.

Dry-type transformers, being solid-state and oil-free, are considered safer

in this regard. However, safety precautions should still be taken to prevent
electrical and thermal issues in dry-type transformers.

Dry Type Transformer Parts

A dry-type transformer, also known as a cast resin transformer or a non-
liquid-filled transformer, is an electrical transformer that does not use
any liquid coolant like oil.
Instead, it uses air or a solid insulation material to cool and insulate its
components. The main parts of a dry-type transformer include

Transformer Core
The core supports the primary and secondary windings by providing a low
resistance channel for electromagnetic flux. It’s constructed by stacking
thin sheets of high-grade grain-oriented steel separated by insulating
material.

The Carbon content of the core steel is kept below 0.1 percent to keep
hysteresis and eddy currents to a minimum. Eddy currents can be decreased
when it is alloyed with silicon.
Transformer Winding
Primary and secondary windings are carried by the transformer for
each phase. This winding comprises several turns of aluminum or
copper conductors , which are separated from one other and the
transformer’s core.
The form and configuration of transformer winding are determined
by the current rating as well as the short circuit’s capacity, the
strength of the circuit, the rise in temperature impedance, and surge
voltages.

Transformer Insulation
Between the windings and the core, between the primary and the secondary
windings, between each turn of the winding, and between all current-
carrying elements and the tank, insulation is necessary.
It is imperative that the insulators have high dielectric strength, good
mechanical properties, and be able to withstand high temperatures. Among
the materials used to insulate transformers are synthetic materials, paper,
cotton, and others.

Transformer Tank
The main tank is a component of a transformer. It serves two functions:
one is to protect the core and windings from external influences, and
secondly, it provides support to the other accessories of transformers.
Fabrication of rolled steel plates into containers is used to create tank
bodies.

As part of the package, lifting hooks and cooling tubes are included.
Aluminum sheets are utilized instead of steel plates to save weight and
prevent stray losses. On the other hand, Aluminum tanks are more
expensive than steel tanks.

Transformer Bushings and Terminal

Bushings serve as insulators between the terminals and the tank. They’re
affixed to the tops of the transformer tanks. They provide a safe path for
the conductors that link terminals to windings.
Transformer Tap Changers
Transformer’s secondary voltage is adjusted via tap changers. The
transformer’s turn’s ratio is capable of being adjusted by these devices as
needed. Two types of tap changers exist On-load tap changers and off-
load tap changers.
On-load tap changers can work without stopping the current flow to the
load, but off-load tap changers can only operate when the transformer is
not providing any loads. There are also tap changers that change the taps
automatically as per requirement. Transformer Air Ventilators.

Cooling System:
While dry-type transformers do not use liquid coolants, they rely on air for
cooling. Some may have natural air cooling, where air circulates freely
around the windings, while others may have forced air cooling, where fans
are used to enhance the cooling process.

Grounding System:
A grounding system is essential for safety reasons. It ensures that any fault
currents are safely directed to the ground, reducing the risk of electrical
shock or fires.

Temperature Sensors and Protection Devices:

Dry-type transformers may be equipped with temperature sensors and
protection devices to monitor the transformer’s temperature and respond to
abnormal conditions, such as overheating or short circuits, by
disconnecting power or issuing alarms.

These are the main parts of a dry-type transformer. The specific design and
components may vary depending on the transformer’s size, voltage rating,
and application.

Dry-type transformers are commonly used in indoor applications where

safety, environmental concerns, and space constraints make them a
preferred choice over oil-filled transformers.