Use of Natural Ester Oil as a Dielectric for Power Transformers

Project ID: 1606
Principal Investigator: Benjamin Few
Research Topic: Improved Power Generation
Funded Fiscal Years: 2017 and 2018
Keywords: None

Research Question

Can ester oil be used as an insulating fluid at high voltages? How quickly does it break down in water? What are the combustibility qualities?

Need and Benefit

Many of Reclamations transformers are in close proximity to our rivers. In the event of a catatrophic failure these explode putting burining oil into our rivers. Ester oil is fish friendly and less combustible, having less environmental impacts to our river systems.

Contributing Partners

Contact the Principal Investigator for information about partners.

Research Products

Please contact research@usbr.gov about research products related to this project.

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Last Updated: 6/22/20