How can you improve your transformer fire safety?

Are you becoming increasingly anxious over the impact of a transformer fire? Or even just the overall safety of your distribution transformer, package substation or power transformer?

Ensuring the fire safety of these transformers is essential for preventing power outages, financial losses, catastrophic damages, and concerns for human lives. There are multiple methods in which this can be done.

MIDEL Ester Fluids for Enhanced Fire Safety

One of the most effective ways to improve fire safety in transformers is by replacing traditional mineral oil (retrofilling) with MIDEL ester fluids. MIDEL fluids, available in synthetic and natural ester forms, offer superior fire-resistant properties compared to conventional transformer oils. Bowers Electricals offer MIDEL retrofilling services as well as brand-new MIDEL transformers.

Why are MIDEL ester fluids more fire-safe?

MIDEL fluids have a fire point exceeding 300°C, significantly reducing the risk of ignition compared to mineral oil, which has a fire point of around 170°C. This makes a massive difference in terms of transformer fire safety and eliminates any small issues massively escalating.

These fluids are less prone to catching fire, making them ideal for use in urban and industrial areas where fire safety is a major concern. International Insurers FM Global® and Underwriters Laboratory (UL) have listed MIDEL fluids as less flammable fluids for dielectric purposes. This means they require lower fire safety measures than mineral oil.

MIDEL’s fire-safe properties allow for their use in transformers inside buildings and other critical areas where mineral oil would not be acceptable. Increased safety can also mean reduced project costs. The costs for safeguarding against the risk of fire (such as fire suppression systems) can be significantly lowered when using MIDEL ester fluids.

The bottom line is risk mitigation. MIDEL is tested, proven and acknowledged worldwide as best practice. By switching to MIDEL ester fluids, operators can significantly decrease fire risks while enhancing the overall performance and sustainability of distribution transformers.

Find out more about MIDEL ester fluids and our service partnership on our website here.

Regular Transformer Maintenance for Fire Prevention

Beyond using fire-resistant insulation fluids, proper maintenance is essential to ensure transformers operate safely and efficiently. Regular inspection and upkeep help identify potential fire hazards before they escalate into serious problems.

What are the key transformer maintenance practices?

• Routine Oil Testing: Regularly analysing the condition of transformer oil to detect contamination, degradation, or moisture accumulation.
• Thermal Scanning: Conducting infrared thermography to identify hotspots that could indicate loose connections or overloading, which may lead to overheating and fire risks.
• Bushing and Insulation Checks: Inspecting bushings for cracks, leaks, or degradation, as faulty bushings can cause short circuits and lead to transformer fires.
• Cooling System Maintenance: Ensuring cooling fans, radiators, and ventilation systems are functioning correctly to prevent overheating.
• Arc Flash Protection: Installing surge arresters and properly ground the transformer to mitigate the risk of electrical faults that could trigger fires.
• Regular Load Monitoring: Monitoring transformer load levels to prevent overloading, which can lead to excessive heat buildup and insulation failure.

Find out about our maintenance services and how we can help you, here.

Summary

Fire safety in distribution transformers is a critical concern that requires proactive measures. By replacing mineral oil (retrofilling) with MIDEL ester fluids, operators can significantly enhance fire safety and environmental sustainability. Additionally, implementing a robust maintenance routine ensures the early detection and prevention of a potential transformer fire. Investing in these fire safety strategies not only extends the life of transformers but also protects infrastructure, personnel, and surrounding communities from devastating fire-related incidents.

By prioritising fire safety in transformer operations, utilities and industries can ensure reliable power distribution with minimal risk of transformer fires. Adopting MIDEL ester fluids and enforcing regular maintenance will go a long way in making transformers safer, more efficient, and environmentally friendly.