Biodegradable transformer oil on the agenda
At Hotel Ry approx. 50 customers and specialists were gathered to hear about the possibilities for more environmentally sound alternatives. For the first time ever, Hans Følsgaard succeeded in getting the company Cargill, which i.a. produces natural esters – an alternative to the mineral oil that is still widely used in transformers – to come and give a presentation on the benefits of replacing the oil in transformers with more sustainable alternatives.
"We must all work to achieve our climate goals. This also applies to transformers. At Følsgaard we have chosen to work with the UN global goals where we believe we can make a difference," says Head of Powertech at Hans Følsgaard, Lars Hoppe-Hagelskjær.
"That is why it is obvious to take initiatives like this, where we have the opportunity to start a dialogue with customers, suppliers and experts in the field."
Molecular structure, greater fire safety and durability
Cargill's take on a natural ester is called FR3 and has several interesting advantages. One of them is that more energy is required to ignite the ester than is the case for mineral oil. This is due, among other things, to that the molecules in the liquid are larger. In the event of a short circuit, the oil in the transformer evaporates and the risk of fire is high. With FR3, the risk of both ignition and continuous fire is reduced, preventing long and costly downtime on the transformer.
The properties of the insulating liquid can affect the lifetime of the transformer. One of the most important factors is moisture, which over time can contribute to the transformer having to be replaced. FR3 can absorb more moisture from cellulose insulation and still retain the full insulating ability. This results in longer service life and service intervals.
"Animal life gets fat on FR3"
FR3 is a plant-based liquid with ultimate biodegradability. It can therefore in principle be dropped on the ground and disappear within a short time without consequences for the environment. This makes it safer to work with and may change the need for a sump/collection beneath the transformer.
The only risk to the environment and wildlife from the spillage of natural esters, that the local wildlife will gain weight if they consume the liquid before it breaks down on its own.
Lively debate and great insights
The reason why Hans Følsgaard initiates presentations like this is found in the whole approach to our business. Events like this start conversations and force both us and our customers to consider new or alternative solutions. The innovative process is helped on its way by sharing knowledge and exchanging experiences with customers and suppliers, and this time was no exception. With great questions and relevant considerations, the conversation and engagement arose, which makes us all better and wiser. That's the point of it all.
Plant-based vs. Fossil fuels – A simple choice?
The reason why we in Følsgaard choose to explore new ways is really quite simple. We want to reduce the consumption of fossil oil and switch to natural, plant-based alternatives. If there are no negative consequences and the implementation is carried out according to the regulations, we regard the transition to natural esters as low-hanging fruit in the green transition.
Many thanks to everyone who participated and to Cargill for showing with the best international experts in the field.
Hans Følsgaard's Powertech department is always seeking the latest knowledge about energy supply and green transition. If you were prevented from participating on the day or would like to hear more about our solutions in the energy supply area, please contact Lars Hoppe-Hagelskjær on tel. +45 87 88 77 04 or lh@folsgaard.com.
