GE Voltage Regulation Transformer Enviromental Conditions

[tyke28]

We are thinking about installing a GE Inductrol 75KVA Voltage Regulation Transformer in a room that is vented to outdoor environmental conditions (i.e. no A/C).

The transformer will be used for security lighting at a nuclear plant and will be cycled on and off daily (i.e. energized/de-energized)

GE only offers and type NEME 1 Enclosure, however the room has four walls and a roof.

There is a concern Condensation/Moister could build while de-energized and when energized, arch and break down the insulation.

Does anyone have any input or ideals? I put several calls into GE tech support with little success on getting answers.

 

[busbar]

Given the setting, it is likely that the only definitive answer could be supplied through design review by an experienced and qualified engineering operation.

 

[advidana]

try using another brand

 

[tyke28]

We chose this particular Dry-type transformer because it is totally mechanical. (i.e. no digital electronics) It's the most rugged of it's type.

A TVA design spec. that is writing for larger transformers, I believe, mentions using internal winding heaters for de-energized dry type transformers. However, GE do not give us the option for heaters.

Condensation mostly occurs in the early morning, typically when the transformer will be energized and at an elevated temperature.

 

[advidana]

What you are calling a transformer is more commonly know as a power condition. It looks like it has a ferro ressonant transformer. Power conditions are like ups units they need to be in controlled enviroments.

Why not use a standard incapulated transformer for lights.

 

[tyke28]

The transformer works via inductance. It uses mechanical forces to rotate the coils thus regulating the voltage.

A Ferro Ressonant Tranformer works via saturating a Capacitor. This is typically a less reliable transformer . There is also a step type transformer that mechancial moves brushes up and down the coil to regulate the voltage. The brushes can break down over time and have to be replaced.

The power source for the High Mast Lighting is feed from a diesal generator appoximatlly 2500 feet away via #1/0 cable.

The standard Encapsulated Transformer has yet to be found for 480 Volt 75 Kva aplications. Unless your talking about a buck/boost transformer, where the taps are set. This type of transformer does not allow voltage regulation.

 

[pennpoint]

tyke28
An Acme 75KVA I-Trap X-former is 31"x 26"x 27" and can weigh in at 700 to 900lbs (alot of copper and steel).
Is the GE on the same scale? If so, how much heat is this thing giving off and how soon would you suppose it will cool down to the dewpoint of the surrounding air. Condensation may not be a problem. If it cools too fast place a small heater inside the NEMA 1 box (see Hoffman box heaters).

Just a thought

pennpoint