Anyone use Alfa Transformers before or Mexican-built units?

[tumbleweed1]

Looking to see if anybody has used Alfa Transformers out of Arkansas before.

The cost savings of using Alfa is quite appealing as they would be supplying us a medium voltage, dry type transformer around 1.5MVA. It will be used in an Nema 3RE outdoor enclosure with temperatures from -40degC to +40degC.

What is of concern is that the manufacturing of the unit is in Mexico. After shipping a few thousand miles we are able to test the transformer- turns ratio, polarization index and other common tests, while not being able to fully load it until installation at site.

Which other tests would be recommended for testing? And are there any questions I could ask that would help differentiate the building methods between this company's product and anothers?

Appreciate any input!

 

[shamsdebout]

I have never heard of this manufacturer before. I looked at their website and didn't see any information about when they started in the industry. Normally that is something I would think most companies would like to share, that is if they have being in the industry for some time.

In looking at some of their companies it seems they serve some reputable customer, one being ABB.

I am not too familiar with the various ANSI standard and UL rating for medium voltage dry-type transformers.

I guess the big thing is to select a transformer with the appropriate temperature rise. Were you opting to go with a temperature rise on the low end of the spectrum.

I would assume you get a host of typical test data from the manufacturer.