Dielectric Strength of Nanofluid-Impregnated Transformer Solid Insulation

Area of Science:

• Electrical Engineering
• Materials Science

Background:

• Research on dielectric nanofluids for transformers is growing due to their promising electrical and thermal properties.
• The interaction between dielectric nanofluids and cellulose solid insulation requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the dielectric strength of cellulose insulation when impregnated with dielectric nanofluids compared to traditional transformer mineral oil.
• To analyze the impact of nanofluids on AC and impulse breakdown voltages of cellulose insulation.

Main Methods:

• Experimental analysis of AC breakdown voltage and impulse breakdown voltage for cellulose samples impregnated with mineral oil and dielectric nanofluids.
• Investigation of nanofluid dielectric properties influencing cellulose insulation performance.
• Finite element analysis to study nanoparticle effects on electric field distribution.

Main Results:

• Significant improvements in AC breakdown voltage were observed for cellulose specimens impregnated with dielectric nanofluids.
• Lower enhancements were noted for impulse breakdown voltage tests compared to AC tests.
• Finite element analysis confirmed nanoparticles influence electric field distribution, contributing to enhanced dielectric strength.

Conclusions:

• Dielectric nanofluids offer substantial benefits for enhancing the AC dielectric strength of cellulose transformer insulation.
• The study highlights the importance of considering nanofluid properties and their interaction with solid insulation for transformer applications.