Comparison of various technologies used for distribution transformers from an ECO standpoint

This paper provides some elements of a life cycle analysis for distribution transformers manufactured in different technologies. The detailed study was made for three phase 2.6 MVA, 36 kV transformer commonly used in wind turbine application in three design options: dry-type cast resin, conventional liquid-immersed and compact liquid-immersed (such as commercially available SLIM^® transformer). As a part of the study described in the paper, the methodology and tools were developed to analyze main activities in transformer manufacturing process and main components of transformer design responsible for eco-footprint. Comparative exploratory Life Cycle Impact Assessment was made. Rather significant difference was observed between cast resin transformer and liquid-immersed options. This was mainly related to the weight of transformer components. Resulting losses are also higher for cast resin transformer; hence the use phase of this type of design has more environmental impact, too. The conclusions may become a guideline for selection of transformer technology at procurement stage in case environmental aspects are to become more and more critical.