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After analyzing various options and choosing the most effective one for electrical insulation, they are looking at improving its characteristics through nanotechnology
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Ana Aranzabe, Chief Technology Officer at Tekniker, presented the results this week at the Lubmat 2023 international congress in Preston (England)
Basque industry is immersed in a process of energy transition that seeks to reduce emissions, promote renewable energies and achieve efficiency in the sector, environmental objectives also set by the European Union to minimize the sector's impact on the planet.
Within this context, the electricity company Arteche is leading BIOAT, a project in which the Tekniker technology center is participating with the aim of researching to replace conventional mineral dielectric fluid with a biodegradable alternative in instrument transformers, devices that convert the currents and voltages of high-voltage lines into values that can be measured by meters and protections.
Specifically, Tekniker has been commissioned to analyze different biodegradable dielectric fluids selected by Arteche to choose the most suitable one. Following the tests carried out, the selected fluid was the synthetic ester fluid, which proved to have the best physico-chemical and electrical (non-conductive) properties. Technical criteria related to the manufacturing process of the transformer and market criteria have also been taken into account.
"By replacing mineral dielectric fluids with biodegradable alternatives, we can ensure that we meet the environmental objectives set by the European Union without affecting the properties of the transformer or incurring a significant increase in manufacturing costs," says Alberto Villar, the researcher responsible for the project at Tekniker.
These dielectric fluids are used in electrical applications such as instrument and power transformers. In an instrument transformer, its main function is that of electrical insulation, together with the oil-impregnated paper that forms the insulating system. "Unlike mineral fluids, biodegradable fluids can be broken down in a natural and environmentally friendly way," adds the Tekniker expert.
Improvements with nanotechnology
During the tests, Tekniker analyzed the physico-chemical and electrical characteristics of the fluids as well as the compatibility of the fluids with the transformer seals.
The technology center is also investigating the effect of nanotechnology to improve the dielectric characteristics of the insulating assembly.
The next steps in the project, as Arteche José Miguel Nogueiras, D&D Engineer, and Ixone Urruela, Sustainable Product Leader from Arteche explains, include checking the compatibility of the fluid with the rest of the materials in the instrument transformer that are susceptible to contact and analyzing its life cycle.
The results obtained so far have been presented by Ana Aranzabe, Technology Director and Deputy Director of Tekniker, at Lubmat 2023, an international lubrication and industrial maintenance congress that was held in Preston, England, between 17 and 19 July.
BIOAT is a project within the framework of the Basque Government's Elkartek type 2 program, referring to those with high industrial potential.
