Can Paraffin Oil Improve Transformer Insulation?

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SUMMARY

Using paraffin oil to improve insulation in transformers, specifically "R" Core types, is a viable method to enhance primary to secondary insulation. It is essential to select transformers with high isolation voltage ratings, ideally above 2-3 kV, and ensure that the primary and secondary windings are separated by dividers to maximize effectiveness. Dipping under-rated transformers in oil can help eliminate creepage paths, but transformers with closely positioned windings may not benefit significantly from this method. True high-voltage isolation transformers are available but tend to be more expensive.

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  • Understanding of transformer design and isolation voltage ratings
  • Familiarity with dielectric properties of materials, specifically paraffin oil
  • Knowledge of creepage and clearance in electrical insulation
  • Experience with high-voltage electrical systems
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  • Research high-voltage isolation transformers suitable for 8 kV applications
  • Learn about dielectric materials and their properties in electrical insulation
  • Explore transformer winding configurations and their impact on insulation performance
  • Investigate safety protocols for working with high-voltage systems and insulating oils
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Electrical engineers, transformer designers, and technicians working with high-voltage systems who are looking to enhance insulation performance and safety in transformer applications.

Ravaner
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Hi Gents. I've to use a transformer ( "R" Core), primary to mains and secondary (2 X 9 V) connected to high voltage source of about 8 kV. I am going, in order to improve primary to secondary insulation, to place this transformer in a paraffin oil "bath". Is it a good idea ?
 
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Look for transformers with high isolation voltage to start. I found 2 to 3KV isolation transformers before in cheap price. Then dip in oil.

Yes, if you get under rated transformers, you need to dip in oil. This will hopefully eliminate the creepage path ( arc along surface). It is important to have transformers that have primary and secondary side by side with separate bobbins or at least has a divider. If the secondary is right on top of the primary, no oil is going to do much as they are in close contact, oil is not going to help much.

They do sell true hv isolation transformers, but they are expensive.

Here is some I used before:

http://www.tamuracorp.com/products/laminated-power-transformers/

But they are not rated for 8KV, you have to experiment.
 
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