Varelen Electric Co., Ltd

Environmental Conditions Where Dry-Type Transformers Cannot Be Used?

2025-08-18

Introduction

Medium voltage Three phase Dry-type transformers play a vital role in modern electrical networks, offering a safe and efficient alternative to oil-immersed units in many applications. dry type transformer not oil insulation, which reduces fire risk and environmental hazards. From renewables🍃 to industry🏭, infrastructure🏗️, and utilities,  Varelen stands ready to tackle the demands of today’s advanced power networks.

dry type transformer harsh environmental

However, there are a common question  : Are there environments where dry-type transformers cannot function effectively?  dry-type power transformers can be engineered for nearly every environment, but their suitability depends on specific operating conditions. its due to temperature extremes, corrosive atmospheres, vibration, and altitude.  these factors affects transformer reliability, performance, and lifespan, requiring careful design adjustments.

 

Extreme envirnmental Temperatures: Dry-type power transformers can be designed to operate in extreme temperatures but may require a specific cooling design and high an low temperature insulation system.

Table 1: Dry Transformer Temperature Classes

Insulation Class Maximum Operating Temp Common Applications
Class A  105°C General low-load use
Class B  130°C Light industrial
Class F  155°C Heavy industrial
Class H  180°C Harsh/high-heat zones
Class C 220°C Specialized extreme

 

dual voltage dry type transformer

Corrosive and High Vibration Environments

Corrosive Environments: Some dry-type transformers are not designed to resist corrosive environments, such as those found in chemical or saltwater environments.  need design corrosion-resistant materials or specialised coatings may be required as well as custom designed enclosures

Severe Vibration: Dry-type transformers are designed to withstand some level of vibration, but severe vibrations can cause structural damage and impact performance. In applications with severe vibration, design and manufacturing special transformers according to your requirements.

 

High-Altitude Installations

High Altitude: Dry-type transformers are designed to operate at 1000MASL as a standard, and high altitudes can impact their performance. if your project requiremetns is high-altitude environments , you can contact technical team get a solutions.

 

Table 2: Altitude Effects on Transformer Ratings

Altitude (MASL) Standard Rating Impact Required Adaptation
0–1000 No impact Standard design works
1000–2000 Slight derating needed Improved ventilation
2000–3000 Moderate derating Higher insulation strength
3000-5000 Significant derating Special design mandatory

 

Another  condition is high humidity. Moisture can condense on insulation surfaces, leading to tracking and partial discharges.

To counter this:

 

 

Customization dry type transformer for Harsh Environments

In some scenarios, off-the-shelf solutions will not suffice. Transformer manufacturers, such as Varelen, design custom dry-type units to match demanding conditions. Customization may include:

Dry-type transformers are specially designed for use in high humidity,  high altitude and and harsh environmental conditions.

 

Conclusion

dry-type transformers can be applied in any environment, but practical conditions dictate design and performance limitations.  temperatures, corrosive atmospheres, vibration, high altitudes and humidity,   exposure all pose significant challenges.

Varelen offer customization solutions, dry-type transformers remain adaptable and reliable. our factory electrical engineers to ensure that the selected transformer not only meets technical requirements but also withstands long-term environmental stress. 

 

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