Beyond conventional transformers – broadening the scope for bio-based insulating liquids
Since its introduction, Nynas' bio-based insulating liquid NYTRO® BIO 300X has been successfully tested, approved and commercialised in a growing number of transformer applications. But could its unique combination of technical and sustainability benefits also create opportunities in other segments?
Offering renewable content and ready biodegradability alongside exceptionally low viscosity and excellent cooling properties, NYTRO BIO 300X presents an interesting alternative to conventional insulating liquids. While power transformers are its most obvious application, they are far from the only equipment that could benefit from these characteristics.
“What has been particularly interesting in recent years is seeing how customers and OEMs are exploring the product in other situations where its properties may provide additional value,” says Professor Thomas Norrby, Nynas Technical Manager – Lubricants and Electrical Industry.
One example is transformer refurbishment and uprating. In a recent project with Dutch grid operator Alliander, a transmission transformer was retrofilled with NYTRO BIO 300X as part of an uprating project. Improved cooling performance, together with modifications to the cooling system, demonstrated the potential to increase continuous loading capacity by approximately 25 per cent while remaining within acceptable thermal limits.
“Another example is shunt reactors, which are becoming increasingly important as modern electricity grids incorporate more long-distance transmission and underground or submarine cables, partly driven by the integration of renewable generation,” notes Thomas Norrby.
New demands, new opportunities
But the potential extends beyond conventional electricity networks. Rail operators, for example, face many of the same demands seen elsewhere in the energy sector: space constraints, environmental requirements, reliability expectations and asset-life considerations.
“While each application must of course be evaluated on its own technical merits, one can see why engineers might be interested in a liquid that combines strong low-temperature performance, very low viscosity and a favourable environmental profile,” says Dr. Hugo Campelo, Nynas Senior Technical Advisor – Lubricants & Electrical Industry.
“Those characteristics could be attractive in certain railway applications, particularly where electrical equipment operates close to environmentally sensitive areas or in locations where maintenance access is difficult.”
And railway infrastructure may be just one of several areas worth exploring.
“The most exciting opportunities are often the ones customers identify themselves,” notes Hugo Campelo. “We have already seen successful work on instrument transformers and studies involving shell-type transformers. Those examples demonstrate that innovation does not stop with conventional network transformers.”
