Dry-Type Network Transformer with Sealed Gas Insulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid-filled network transformers pose environmental risks due to fluid leakage and rupture, necessitating a non-toxic, stable alternative for power delivery in populated areas.
Innovation Solution
A dry-type network transformer with a ferromagnetic core and coil assemblies housed in a hermetically-sealed enclosure filled with a combustion-inhibiting gas, such as nitrogen, to prevent fluid leakage and ensure stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a fluid-filled network transformer is used to insulate the core and coil windings, then the insulation effectiveness is improved, but the risk of fluid leakage and environmental pollution increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the harmful dielectric fluid from the transformer system entirely, replacing it with a dry-type insulation structure. The core and coil assemblies are housed in a hermetically-sealed enclosure without fluid filling, eliminating the source of environmental pollution while maintaining insulation through alternative means such as air insulation and sealed protective barriers.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates an inert, sealed environment within the hermetically-sealed enclosure that protects the internal components from external contaminants while containing any potential internal issues. The sealed enclosure acts as an inert barrier, preventing both external moisture/contaminants from entering and internal components from leaking externally, thus resolving the pollution risk while maintaining reliable insulation.
2Stability of the object's composition
If a hermetically-sealed enclosure is used to house the core and coil assemblies, then the stability against rupture is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The hermetically-sealed enclosure is divided into separate modular sections, each with its own sealing system. The enclosure includes a first section housing the core and a second section housing the coil assemblies, with each section independently sealed. This segmentation allows for simpler, more manageable sealing joints rather than attempting to seal a single large complex volume, thus improving stability while controlling complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs flexible sealing mechanisms including gaskets and sealant materials at the joints of the hermetically-sealed enclosure. These flexible elements accommodate thermal expansion and contraction while maintaining the hermetic seal, providing stability against rupture without requiring overly complex rigid sealing structures.
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
The solution provides a stable and non-toxic power delivery system that prevents environmental pollution, maintaining efficiency with operating temperatures below 220°C and efficiency greater than 99% in a 500 kVA transformer.
Implementation Method 1
a combustion-inhibiting gas disposed within a hermetically-sealed enclosure
Implementation Method 2
a hermetically-sealed enclosure used to house the ferromagnetic core, coil assemblies and a combustion-inhibiting gas
Data Source
AI summary
A dry-type network transformer has a core and coil windings insulated by a combustion-inhibiting gas. The combustion-inhibiting gas, core and coil windings are disposed within a hermetically-sealed enclosure. The combustion-inhibiting gas is air, an inert gas or a mixture of gases. The dry-type network transformer may be connected to a network protector. The network protector is further connected to a secondary network. The network protector prevents power from flowing from a secondary network to the primary side of the transformer. The dry-type network transformer is installed in a vault that is underground or at ground level. The dry-type network transformer may be suspended near the ceiling of the vault or installed at the base of the vault.