The choice between oil and air as a cooling medium in transformers depends on various factors, and each has its own advantages. In case of large sized power transformers, oil cooling is required. Here are major advantages of using oil as a cooling medium in transformers:
Better Heat Dissipation
Oil is a more effective heat transfer medium compared to air. It has higher thermal conductivity, which means it can carry away heat more efficiently. This is crucial for transformers, as they generate a significant amount of heat during operation.
Good to know:
- Thermal conductivity of Air at 0 degree: 0.024 W/m K
- Thermal conductivity of Oil at 0 degree: 0.136 W/m K
Greater Specific Conductivity
Oil has greater conductivity than air and enables heat to be transferred more quickly as compared to air
Better Breakdown Strength
The breakdown strength of oil employed for cooling is much greater than air. It is approximately 6 times the air.
Oil provides good insulation and ensures that good reliability even at the high voltage values.