Loss evaluation-will nonutility transformers be next?

In the past there was little concern for lowering losses in transformers. This was mainly due to the fact that when compared to motors and other electrical devices, transformers were considered to be very efficient. Motors having efficiencies ranging from 70 percent to 90 percent warranted much more loss saving attention than transformers whose efficiencies were generally 97 percent or better. However, there has been a growing concern for energy conservation and for the total operating costs of transformers. Furthermore, under the Department of Energy, as a requirement of the Energy Policy Act of 1992, studies are under way to determine if significant energy savings would merit setting loss goals for a wide range of transformers. This is already a standard practice in many foreign countries. The authors show that significant energy and long term cost savings can be achieved by using lower loss core materials and when transformers are considered on a total cost of ownership basis