Dry Distribution Transformer Cooling Circuit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dry distribution transformers face challenges with inefficient cooling methods, particularly in space-constrained environments like oil platforms and vessels, where air-cooled systems are less effective and water-cooled systems require costly deionization and maintenance, while also causing electromagnetic losses.
Innovation Solution
A dry distribution transformer design featuring a cooling circuit with insulated, grounded cooling ducts that allow for forced circulation of seawater or treated water, which absorbs heat from windings without forming a turn around the core, reducing electromagnetic losses and eliminating the need for deionization systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If air-cooled systems are used in space-constrained environments, then installation space is reduced, but cooling efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies hydraulic cooling by circulating water through cooling ducts positioned adjacent to the windings. This hydraulic approach replaces air-cooling with water-cooling, providing superior heat transfer efficiency in compact spaces where air-cooled systems would be ineffective due to space constraints.
2Loss of energy
If water-cooled systems with deionization are used, then cooling efficiency is improved, but device complexity and maintenance cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses ordinary seawater or untreated water as the cooling medium instead of requiring deionized water. This approach replaces the expensive and complex deionization system with a simple, readily available cooling fluid that can be discharged after use, significantly reducing device complexity and maintenance requirements.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This design provides efficient self-cooling, reduces costs, and optimizes operation efficiency by using seawater or untreated water, eliminating the need for deionization systems and insulating oils, thus enabling compact and cost-effective transformer operation.
Implementation Method 1
a cooling circuit (7), associated to at least one low-voltage winding (2) or to a high-voltage winding (3), capable of enabling forced circulation of a cooling fluid inside it
Implementation Method 2
a heat exchanger (6.2), arranged outside the transformer (1) and in communication with the cooling ducts (6)
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The present invention relates to a dry distribution transformer (1) comprising at least one low-voltage winding (2) and one high-voltage winding (3), concentrically mounted around a core column (1.1, 1.3). The transformer (1) comprises at least one cooling circuit (7) associated to at least one low-voltage winding (2) and/or one high-voltage winding (3). Such a cooling circuit (7) is electrically insulated with respect to the low-voltage and high-voltage windings (2, 3). In addition, the cooling circuit (7) is capable of enabling circulation of a cooling fluid inside it. Additionally, the cooling circuit (7) is provided with a constructive arrangement configured to involve partly the core column (1.2, 1.3), that is, the constructive arrangement is configured not to form a turn around the core column (1.1, 1.3). The cooling circuit (7) is provided with cooling ducts (6), each cooling duct (6) having a cross section that partly involves a cross section of the core column (1.2, 1.3).