Keeping in view the present West Asia crisis scenario, the Central Electricity Authority (CAE) has recently issued an advisory to all utilities. CAE has observed that although Mineral Oil is presently the most widely used insulating and cooling medium in power and distribution transformers, reactors etc., across the electricity sector; Ester Oil is also being used globally as an alternative technological option.
In the case of transformers, reactors etc., the insulating and cooling medium, including transformer oil, is required to be suitable for the voltage class, temperature rise, and fault duty and service conditions of installation. Equipment containing oil is also required to be provided with adequate fire protection, safe clearances, earthing, ventilation and suitable arrangements to prevent danger arising from leakage, explosion or fire.
Use of Ester Oil as transformer oil may now be considered in installations – where use of Mineral Oil is prevalent. Further, now both types of oil i.e., Mineral or Ester Oil, are allowed and utilities may choose the specific oil as per their requirements.
