Performance studies on dielectric and physical properties of eco-friendly based natural ester oils using semi-conductive nanocomposites for power transformer application

Increasing usage of petroleum-based insulating oils in electrical apparatus has led to increase in pollution and, at the same time, the oils adversely affect the life of electrical apparatus. This increases the demand of Mineral Oil (MO), which is on the verge of extinction and leads to conducting tests on natural esters. This work discusses dielectric endurance of Marula Oil (MRO), a natural ester modified using Conductive Nano Particle (CNP) to replace petroleum-based dielectric oils for power transformer applications. The Al2O3 is a CNP that has a melting point of 2072 °C and a low charge relaxation time that allows time to quench free electrons during electrical discharge. Al2O3 is blended with the MRO and Mineral Oil (MO) in different concentrations. The measured dielectric properties are transformed into mathematical equations using the Lagrange interpolation polynomial functions and compared with the predicted values either using Gaussian or Fourier distribution functions. Addition of Al2O3 indicates that 0.75 g/L in MRO has an 80% survival rate and 20% hazard rate compared to MO which has 50% survival rate and 50% hazard rate. Considering the measured or interpolated values and the predicted values, they are used to identify the MRO and MO’s optimum concentration produces better results. The test result confirms the enhancement of the breakdown voltage up to 64%, kinematic viscosity is lowered by up to 40% at 110 °C, and flash/fire points of MRO after Al2O3 treatment enhanced to 14% and 23%. Hence the endurance of Al2O3 in MRO proves to be effective against electrical, physical and thermal stress.

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Alternative liquid dielectrics in power transformer insulation: a review

Indonesian Journal of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science ◽

10.11591/ijeecs.v23.i3.pp1761-1777 ◽

2021 ◽

Vol 23 (3) ◽

pp. 1761

Author(s):

Bokang Agripa Tlhabologo ◽

Ravi Samikannu ◽

Modisa Mosalaosi

Keyword(s):

Power Transformer ◽

Chemical Properties ◽

Fire Risk ◽

Mineral Oil ◽

Acid Number ◽

Gas Analysis ◽

International Standards ◽

Liquid Dielectrics ◽

Transformer Insulation ◽

Natural Ester

Transformer liquid dielectrics evolved where mineral oil has been the dominant choice until emergence of synthetic esters and natural esters. Natural ester-based oils have been under extensive investigations to enhance their properties for replacing petroleum-based mineral oil, which is non-biodegradable and has poor dielectric properties. This paper focuses on exposition of natural ester oil application in mixed transformer liquid dielectrics. Physical, chemical, electrical, and ageing characteristics of these dielectrics and the dissolved gas analysis (DGA) were reviewed. Physical properties include viscosity, pour point, flash and fire point which are vital indicators of heat insulation and fire risk. Chemical properties considered are water content, acid number, DGA, corrosive sulphur, and sludge content to limit and detect degradation and corrosion due to oil ageing. Electrical properties including breakdown voltage were considered for consistent insulation during overload and fault conditions. These properties of evolving alternative dielectrics were reviewed based on ASTM International standards and International Electro technical Commission standards for acceptable transformer liquid dielectrics. This review paper was compiled to avail modern methodologies for both the industry and scholars, also providing the significance of using mixed dielectrics for power transformers as they are concluded to show superiority over non-mixed dielectrics.

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