First transformer oil regeneration plant now in Bulawayo

Industrial firm Delta Star Electrix has upped the ante in the electricity distribution sector with the introduction of the ‘first’ transformer oil regeneration plant in Zimbabwe.

The CMM-R12 from GlobeCore performs a regeneration process that restores used oils to their original condition. This process makes it possible to fill transformers with oils that would previously have required disposal. In this manner, the oil in the transformer can be used without replacement for the entire service life of the transformer.

A spokesperson for Star Delta indicates that the Transformer Maintenance and Oil

Regeneration division “offers a holistic service in terms of maintaining and extending the working life of your transformer.”

The process begins with the assessment of the transformer at its location checking elements such as dust, vegetation and weeds and overgrowth as these can affect the performance of the unit. The next step is to check for leaks, which may indicate a current risk or future problem and nip it in the bud. The paintwork is inspected and if necessary, the silicone gel is replaced and the oil level is topped if there is need.

After the above processes a sample of the oil is extracted for testing. At this juncture, recommendations are made for either oil purification or regeneration.

“Regeneration goes a step further by removing moisture, acids and particulate matter from the oil and the transformer including the winding wire, the paper insulation and then we go a step further by draining the sludge from the oil,” the spokesperson says. In the process of oil regeneration, oil degradation products and acidic compounds are removed. The oil becomes clear, oxidation resistance is improved while gas solubility is reduced.

This cutting edge technology is designed to extend transformer service life by restoring the dielectric strength and chemical composition of dielectric insulating oil. Star Delta points out that the “CMM-R system in this machine is designed to extend transformer life span for up to 40 years.”

Apart from extending the lifespan of transformers, regeneration has other benefits. The process improves overall performance of the electricity distribution units. It is environmentally friendly and sustainable “in the sense that it does away with disposal of used transformer oil which can be harmful to the environment.” There is no longer need for repurchasing and disposing of oil that is already there. Regeneration is cheaper by between 40 to

60 percent of the cost of new transformer oil.

The oil regeneration entity says it has the capability to process volumes of between 5 000 to 10 000 litres of oil. In order not to cut into operational time, Star Delta reveals that the regeneration plant is mobile, hence maintenance can be carried out anywhere. Additionally, “we can perform the transformer service and oil regeneration while the transformer is online”.

Transformer servicing includes: vacuuming the transformer, heating of the transformer and its core with hot oil, removal of sediment from the windings of the transformer.

Star Delta Electrix provides a range of products and services for smart metering, switch gear as well as transformer maintenance and oil regeneration including back up and technical advice. The company is located at 4 Bristol Road, Belmont East in Bulawayo. They can be contacted on +263 772 476 120, +263 864 430 2945 or +263 9 71524 and E-mail at adminrsa@stardelta.net.