ECODESIGN OF DRY TRANSFORMERS

Based on the environmental targets of the European Union, a Regulation for “Small, Medium and Large Power Transformers” was issued in 2014. The Regulation also applies for dry-type transformers which need to fulfill requirements for either maximum values for losses or minimum values of efficiency. Dry-type transformers do not contain any inflammable liquids, they are safe and reliable and expected to strongly increase their market penetration. All transformers newly put into service after July 2015 in an EU or EEA country need to fulfill the requirements. The paper presents the background of the Regulation and its major content, compares differences in the requirements for DTs and PTs, and gives an overview about transformers which are not falling under the EU Regulation. A direct implication of the Regulation is that transformers with lower losses are larger and more costly. A comparison is done for a dry transformer, including an analysis on the economic aspects. First cost and cost of operation are considered and evaluated. Due to different electricity costs and investment considerations the analysis depends on country and application. The comparison is complemented with a dry transformer of best available technology. The paper finishes with a global overview about the requirements on transformer efficiency.