Functions of Oil Tank and Radiator of Oil-Immersed Transformers

The oil tank and radiators are essential structural and heat-dissipating components.They work together to hold insulating oil,protect internal parts and dissipate operating heat,ensuring the transformer runs safely and stably.

1.Functions of the Transformer Oil Tank

Store and seal insulating oil

It is the main container for insulating oil.The fully sealed tank isolates oil from air,moisture and dust,preventing oil deterioration and maintaining good insulation performance.

Protect internal components

The rigid metal shell encloses the core,windings and tap changer.It shields internal parts from mechanical impact,rain,dust and corrosive substances in outdoor and industrial environments.

Conduct and transfer heat

The tank wall contacts insulating oil directly and transfers part of the internal heat to the surrounding air through natural heat dissipation.

Bear mechanical load and installation

It serves as the base for installing radiators,bushings,valves and other accessories.The bottom structure also supports the whole transformer for placement and fixation.

Maintain internal pressure balance

Corrugated or expansion-type tanks adapt to oil volume expansion and contraction caused by temperature changes,avoiding excessive internal pressure.

2.Functions of Radiators

Enhance heat dissipation(core function)

When the transformer operates,windings and core generate continuous heat.Hot oil flows upward into radiators,exchanges heat with ambient air,and the cooled oil flows back to the tank to form natural oil circulation.Radiators greatly expand the heat exchange area and lower overall operating temperature.

Stabilize operating temperature

Effective heat dissipation keeps the temperature rise within the rated range,slows down aging of insulation and oil,and extends the service life of the transformer.

Adapt to different load conditions

Matched radiators ensure normal heat dissipation even under rated or occasional short-time overload,preventing overheating faults.

3.Working Synergy Between Tank and Radiator

Hot insulating oil inside the tank circulates into radiators for cooling,then returns to the tank to absorb heat again.This natural circulation loop realizes continuous heat dissipation.The tank guarantees a sealed operating environment,while radiators solve the heat dissipation demand for long-term operation.

References

APA 7th Edition

International Electrotechnical Commission.(2022).Power transformers–Part 1:General(IEC 60076-1:2022).

Brown,A.,&Clark,S.(2024).Thermal design of tanks and radiators for distribution transformers.IEEE Transactions on Power Delivery,39(3),1021-1028.

Zhou,Y.(2023).Structural performance and heat dissipation analysis of oil-immersed transformer enclosures.Electrical Measurement&Instrumentation,60(8),56-62.

MLA 9th Edition

International Electrotechnical Commission.Power Transformers–Part 1:General,IEC 60076-1:2022,2022.

Brown,Alan,and Sam Clark."Thermal Design of Tanks and Radiators for Distribution Transformers."IEEE Transactions on Power Delivery,vol.39,no.3,2024,pp.1021-1028,

Zhou,Yang."Structural Performance and Heat Dissipation Analysis of Oil-Immersed Transformer Enclosures."Electrical Measurement&Instrumentation,vol.60,no.8,2023,pp.56-62.

IEEE Style

International Electrotechnical Commission,Power transformers–Part 1:General,IEC Standard 60076-1:2022,2022.

A.Brown and S.Clark,"Thermal design of tanks and radiators for distribution transformers,"IEEE Trans.Power Deliv.,vol.39,no.3,pp.1021-1028,2024,

Y.Zhou,"Structural performance and heat dissipation analysis of oil-immersed transformer enclosures,"Electr.Meas.Instrum.,vol.60,no.8,pp.56-62,2023.