Latest Dielectric Fluids Articles

Advancements in DGA data quality enable precise transformer monitoring, dissolved gas analysis, and predictive maintenance through calibrated sensors, IEC 60599/IEEE C57.104 harmonization, machine-learning analytics, anomaly detection, and IEC 61850-integrated SCADA data integrity.

What Are Advancements in DGA Data Quality?

Enhanced DGA data quality strengthens transformer diagnostics via calibrated sensors, aligned standards, and analytics.

✅ On-line oil monitors with auto-calibration and drift correction

✅ IEC 60599/IEEE C57.104 harmonized thresholds and diagnostics

✅ ML-based anomaly detection and condition-based maintenance

Introduction
There is more to DGA interpretation than comparing the latest gas concentrations to limits in a table or plotting them in a triangle or pentagon to identify the apparent fault type. We have found that the whole DGA history of a transformer must be considered when interpreting its most recent DGA results.
Trend evaluation and accurate assessment of short-term changes require accuracy and low measurement variability of gas data. Data quality problems must be recognized and dealt with before an interpretation is attempted. Below we point out some of the most common data quality issues. For broader context on diagnostics, the primer on dissolved gas analysis outlines core fault signatures, typical gas sources, and interpretation pitfalls.

Understanding how oil and paper behave electrically is foundational, and the summary of fundamental dielectric characteristics helps explain why certain gases trend together over time.

Data management
As a result of the historical importance of DGA data, proper organization and preservation of DGA data are extremely important. In addition to archiving the lab reports, keep the data in tabular form in a database or, for small volumes of data, a spreadsheet. A well-organized database supports sorting and filtering for graphical and statistical analysis.
Use a unique and permanent ID to identify transformers, oil compartments, and the oil sample data belonging to them. Substation and unit number are not a suitable ID, for the same reason that the dentist doesn’t identify you by your department and job title. Large transformer fleets may require company-assigned asset numbers to avoid possible serial number duplication across manufacturers.
Disciplined chain-of-custody practices provide correct IDs of transformers and compartments to be sampled, ensure that oil samples are labeled correctly, and guarantee that analysis results returned by the lab are attributed to the right transformers and oil compartments. Integrating laboratory reports with a structured repository is easier when guided by practical notes on transformer oil analysis data formats and decision thresholds.

For sampling logistics and labeling discipline, operations teams can review guidance on oil in transformers to align maintenance practices with data management goals.

Data inconsistency or inaccuracy
Gas loss that is deliberate, such as by head space pressure regulation or use of a desiccant breather, needs to be accounted for as discussed in our other article [1]. Unintended gas leakage from a transformer – often detectable by a O2/N2 ratio persistently above 0.2 when it should be lower – should be remedied as soon as possible, both to keep DGA effective and to prevent moisture ingress. After oil degassing, it is advisable to exclude samples from DGA interpretation for 6-12 months due to the false upward trends created by diffusion of gases from winding paper into the bulk oil.
Accuracy and repeatability of gas data are only partly up to the laboratory. Unrepresentative oil samples can lead to inconsistent and highly variable gas data regardless of the quality of laboratory measurements. A study by a large USA electric utility [2] shows that using extra care and a moisture / temperature probe to ensure collection of representative oil sample can reduce data variability considerably. The figure (Figure 1) illustrates the effect of moderate variability (±15%) versus high variability (±35%) on the data from a basic S-shaped gassing event.
Moderate variability is experienced with consistently good sampling practice and a good laboratory. High variability is easily attainable if there is a problem with sampling practices. Recent field case studies on advancements in dissolved gas analysis discuss accounting for gas loss, diffusion effects, and sampling bias.

When evaluating short-term changes following maintenance, further techniques described in advancements in DGA interpretation can reduce false alarms by emphasizing trend shape over single-point limits.

The table provides a summary of some common data quality problems. Sections 5.1 and 5.2 of IEEE C57.104-2019 [3] contain a detailed discussion of data quality assessment. For paper-aging diagnostics specifically, insights on the CO/CO2 ratio in DGA clarify when cellulose decomposition is the likely source.

References
[1] “Advancements in Dissolved Gas Analysis: Accounting for Gas Loss,” Electricity Today, March 2020
[2] T. Rhodes, “Using field moisture probes to ensure drawing a representative oil sample,” in 82nd Annual International Doble Client Conference, Doble Engineering Company, March 2015.
[3] “IEEE Guide for the interpretation of gases dissolved in mineral oil filled transformers”, IEEE Std C57.104-2019.

Related Articles

• Dielectric Fluid Channel

Dielectric fluid is an insulating liquid used in electrical equipment like transformers and capacitors to prevent arcing, dissipate heat, and ensure system reliability. It offers high dielectric strength, thermal stability, and moisture resistance for safe operation.

What is Dielectric Fluid?

Dielectric fluid is a critical component in the operation and safety of electrical equipment, especially transformers and high-voltage switchgear.

✅ Provides electrical insulation and prevents arcing in high-voltage systems.

✅ Offers excellent thermal conductivity to dissipate heat.

✅ Protects components from moisture and contamination.

For industrial electricians, understanding their role in insulation, cooling, and arc suppression is essential for ensuring system reliability and preventing electrical failures. Let's review the properties, types, and maintenance requirements of dielectric fluids, providing practical insights into how they support energy efficiency, equipment longevity, and fire safety. Readers will learn about testing procedures, contamination risks, and how proper fluid management can minimize downtime and enhance overall electrical system performance. An oil-filled transformer relies on dielectric fluid to provide both insulation and cooling, ensuring safe and efficient operation.

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Applications in Electrical Equipment

In the realm of electrical equipment, insulating fluids are indispensable. They serve as both insulating and cooling agents, safeguarding systems from electric discharges while effectively dissipating heat. High-voltage applications, such as transformers, capacitors, and cables, rely heavily on these fluids to maintain stability and reliability. By preventing electric breakdown in these critical components, dielectric fluid ensures the longevity and efficiency of power distribution networks, which are the backbone of modern energy systems. The quality of transformer oil is crucial because its dielectric properties directly affect breakdown voltage and reliability.

Role in Immersion Cooling

The role of dielectric fluid in immersion cooling has gained prominence with the rise of data-intensive industries. Immersion cooling involves submerging electronic components in a thermally stable dielectric liquid to enhance heat transfer and reduce energy consumption. This technique is particularly advantageous in data centers, where efficient cooling solutions are essential. By dissipating heat more effectively than traditional air-cooling methods, dielectric fluid enables high-performance computing systems to operate at optimal levels while minimizing their environmental impacts. Understanding the role of transformer core and its interaction with insulating fluids can optimize cooling and extend transformer lifespan.

Comparison with Mineral Oils

A frequent comparison in the industry is between dielectric fluid and traditional mineral oil. While both serve as insulators and coolants, advanced dielectric fluid surpasses mineral oils in terms of thermal stability, oxidation resistance, and eco-friendliness. In high-voltage applications, \fluids offer lower operating temperatures and improved system reliability, reducing failure rates and extending service life. These properties make them an ideal choice for industries seeking to strike a balance between performance and sustainability.

Comparison of Dielectric Fluids

Types of Dielectric Fluids – Mineral Oil, Natural Ester, Synthetic Ester, Emerging Nanofluids

Dielectric fluid is categorized into several types, each with distinct properties and applications. Mineral oil has been the traditional choice due to its low cost and reliable insulation; however, it has limitations, including low flash points and environmental concerns. Natural ester fluids, derived from vegetable oils, offer high biodegradability, excellent moisture absorption, and fire safety advantages with fire points exceeding 300°C. Synthetic esters provide superior oxidation stability and thermal performance, making them suitable for high-load and high-temperature applications. Emerging nanofluids, enhanced with nanoparticles such as graphene or titanium dioxide, are at the forefront of innovation, offering improved thermal conductivity, higher dielectric strength, and enhanced aging resistance compared to conventional fluids. Regular testing of transformer oil filling is essential to avoid contamination and maintain high dielectric strength.

Material Compatibility & Impregnation – Testing Standards, Handling Guidance, Temperature Considerations

The interaction of dielectric fluids with insulation materials, gaskets, and seals plays a vital role in system performance. Certain fluids can cause swelling, shrinkage, or chemical degradation of elastomer-based gaskets, leading to leaks or compromised insulation. Modern ester fluids often require gasket materials that are highly resistant to hydrolysis and oxidation, such as nitrile or fluorocarbon elastomers, which offer superior stability compared to standard rubber seals.

Solid dielectrics, like pressboard or paper insulation, are directly affected by fluid absorption and impregnation. A properly selected fluid not only insulates but also strengthens these materials by filling microscopic voids and preventing moisture ingress. Poor fluid-material compatibility can reduce dielectric strength and lead to premature equipment failure.

The impregnation process, often carried out using vacuum-pressure cycles, ensures that the fluid thoroughly saturates the cellulose insulation. Vacuum impregnation removes trapped air and moisture before fluid introduction, improving dielectric performance and reducing the risk of partial discharges. Heating the fluid slightly during impregnation enhances its flow properties and ensures deep penetration. Standards like ASTM D3455 are used to verify material compatibility, while strict handling guidelines prevent contamination and degradation during storage. Proper transformer insulation depends on the fluid’s ability to prevent arcing and maintain thermal stability under load.

Material Compatibility and Impregnation Guidelines

Influence on Gaskets and Dielectric Materials

The compatibility of insulating fluids with gaskets, seals, and solid dielectric materials is critical for the long-term reliability of electrical equipment. Certain fluids can cause swelling, shrinkage, or chemical degradation of elastomer-based gaskets, leading to leaks or compromised insulation. Modern natural and synthetic ester fluids often require gasket materials that are highly resistant to hydrolysis and oxidation, such as nitrile or fluorocarbon elastomers, which offer superior stability compared to standard rubber seals.

Solid dielectrics, like pressboard or paper insulation, are directly affected by fluid absorption and impregnation. A properly selected fluid not only insulates but also strengthens these materials by filling microscopic voids and preventing moisture ingress. Poor fluid-material compatibility can reduce dielectric strength and lead to premature equipment failure.

Performance Metrics & Diagnostics – Presenting Typical Values, Standards, and Testing Procedures

Key performance metrics for insulating fluids include dielectric breakdown voltage, moisture content, viscosity, thermal conductivity, and flash point. Testing standards such as IEC 60156 (breakdown voltage), ASTM D877/D1816 (oil testing), and IEC 60247 (dielectric dissipation factor) are widely used to evaluate fluid health. Dissolved Gas Analysis (DGA) is another critical tool that monitors the condition of transformer oils by detecting gases produced during thermal or electrical faults.

Regular diagnostic testing allows early detection of contamination, oxidation, or moisture ingress. By tracking these values, maintenance teams can take corrective action before failures occur, extending equipment life and ensuring uninterrupted service.

Innovations – Nanofluids and Sustainability Trends

The development of nanofluids is revolutionizing dielectric technology. By suspending nanoparticles like Al₂O₃, SiO₂, or graphene in base fluids, engineers have achieved significant improvements in dielectric strength, heat transfer, and thermal stability. These advanced fluids operate under higher electrical stress while maintaining lower temperatures, leading to greater reliability and efficiency.

Sustainability trends favor the use of natural and synthetic esters due to their biodegradability, reduced greenhouse gas footprint, and compliance with modern fire safety and environmental standards. As industries shift toward eco-friendly energy solutions, insulating fluids are being optimized to deliver both performance and environmental benefits. Monitoring breakdown voltage helps evaluate the condition of dielectric fluids and ensures they can withstand high voltages.

Practical Guidance – Selection Criteria Based on Fire Safety, Environmental Regulations, Maintenance Strategy, and Transformer Design Optimization

Choosing the right fluid involves striking a balance between technical performance and safety and environmental requirements. Fire safety considerations often favour natural esters, which have much higher fire points than mineral oils. Environmental regulations are increasingly encouraging fluids with low toxicity and high biodegradability to minimize ecological risks. A maintenance strategy also plays a role; fluids with greater oxidation stability and moisture tolerance can extend maintenance intervals, thereby lowering overall operating costs. Ultimately, transformer design optimization—including heat transfer requirements, viscosity, and load profiles—may dictate which fluid type offers the best efficiency and long-term reliability. Core parts of transformer components are submerged in dielectric fluid to minimize electrical discharge and control temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the Critical Components for Industrial Electricians?

Understanding the intricacies of electrical power distribution transformers is paramount for industrial electricians. These vital components play a pivotal role in the efficient and reliable delivery of electrical power to industries and businesses worldwide. By delving into the fundamental concepts of transformer operation, types, maintenance, and future trends, industrial electricians can gain valuable insights to optimize electrical systems, troubleshoot potential issues, and ensure a reliable and uninterrupted power supply. Insulating oil is essential for preventing electric discharges in high-voltage equipment. By immersing electrical components in these fluids, manufacturers can significantly reduce the risk of arcing and short circuits. Techniques like immersion cooling utilize insulating oil to effectively dissipate heat generated by high-power components, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.

What are the key characteristics of an effective electrical insulating oil?

The primary function of electrical insulating oil is to provide electrical insulation. Filling the gaps between electrical components prevents arcing and short circuits, which can lead to equipment failure and potentially hazardous situations. Additionally, dielectric fluid excels at dissipating heat generated by electrical equipment, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.

What are the most common types of electrical insulating oil, and where are they used?

Electrical insulating oil comes in various types, each with its unique properties and applications. Historically, mineral oil has been the most commonly used dielectric fluid, offering a balance of cost-effectiveness and reliability. However, its environmental impact and susceptibility to degradation have led to the development of alternative options. Synthetic esters, for instance, provide superior dielectric properties, thermal stability, and biodegradability, making them a more environmentally friendly choice. Silicone fluids, renowned for their exceptional thermal stability and resistance to oxidation, are frequently employed in high-voltage applications where reliability and long-term performance are crucial. While perfluorinated fluids offer exceptional dielectric strength and thermal stability, their high cost and potential environmental impact limit their widespread use.

The performance of electrical insulating oil is influenced by several factors. A crucial factor is dielectric strength, which measures the fluid's ability to withstand high voltages without breaking down. Additionally, the fluid's thermal stability is essential for maintaining its insulating properties under varying temperature conditions. Chemical stability is also important, as it ensures the fluid's resistance to degradation and oxidation. Furthermore, a low flash point and flammability rating are crucial for safety, especially in enclosed environments. Lastly, the environmental impact of the fluid, including its biodegradability and toxicity, is becoming increasingly significant in the selection of dielectric fluids.

How does transformer oil impact sustainability?

Regular testing and maintenance are crucial to ensure the optimal performance of insulating oil. These tests evaluate critical properties, including dielectric strength, moisture content, and acidity level. By monitoring these parameters, engineers can identify potential issues and take corrective actions to prevent equipment failures. This proactive approach helps maintain the reliability and safety of electrical systems.

Dielectric fluid is an essential component in high-voltage electrical systems. They provide critical insulation and cooling properties, preventing electrical breakdowns and ensuring the reliable operation of equipment. By understanding the properties and applications of different dielectric fluids, engineers and technicians can select the most suitable fluid for specific applications and optimize system performance.

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• Dielectric Fluids Channel

Transformer cooling enhances thermal management via oil-immersed and air-cooled systems, radiators, fans, and pumps. Methods like ONAN, ONAF, and OFAF reduce temperature rise, limit insulation aging, and improve efficiency under varying load.

What Is Transformer Cooling?

Transformer cooling removes heat from windings and core via oil or air circulation to control temperature and slow aging.

✅ Common types: ONAN, ONAF, OFAF, OFWF for various ratings.

✅ Components: radiators, fans, oil pumps, heat exchangers.

✅ Benefits: lower temperature rise, higher efficiency, longer life.

A little energy lost in a transformer must be dissipated as heat. Although this energy is but a small portion of the total energy undergoing transformation, it becomes quite large in amount in transformers of larger kVA ratings. To maintain efficiency and life expectancy the transformer's cooling system needs to be operating at peak performance. For dry-type transformers, the ventilation system of the room should be inspected to make sure it is operating efficiently. For forced air-cooled systems, the fan motors should be checked for proper lubrication and operation. Water-cooled systems must be tested for leaks and proper operation of pumps, pressure gauges, temperature gauges and alarm systems.

In liquid-filled designs, the choice and maintenance of oil in transformers directly influence heat removal performance and long-term reliability.

When a liquid coolant is used its dielectric should be tested. Water in the coolant will reduce its dielectric strength and the insulation quality. In cases where the dielectric strength of the coolant is reduced significantly, conducting arcs may develop causing short-circuits when the transformer is energized. A standard oil dielectric test involves applying high voltage to a sample taken from the transformer and recording the voltage at which the oil breaks down. If the average breakdown voltage is less than 20 kilovolts, the oil will need to be filtered until a minimum average breakdown of 25 kilovolts is achieved. Technicians often reference breakdown voltage of oil guidelines to interpret test results and schedule remediation.

Comprehensive transformer oil analysis can reveal moisture ingress, dissolved gases, and particulate contamination before failures occur.

Oil-insulated transformers use mineral oil for cooling. This oil is thin enough to circulate freely and does a good job of providing insulation between the transformer windings and the core. It is however subject to oxidation and if any moisture enters the oil, its insulating value is substantially reduced. In addition, mineral oil is flammable and therefore should not be located near combustible materials indoors or outdoors. In critical applications, selecting a high-quality transformer insulating oil mitigates oxidation, moisture effects, and thermal aging.

These behaviors align with the fundamental dielectric characteristics that govern insulation performance under electrical and thermal stress.

There are several types of transformer oil cooling solutions:

• oil air
• forced oil
• oils water
• oil natural
• air forced
• heated oil
• oil forced
• natural

In practice, each configuration must be evaluated alongside the properties of the chosen dielectric fluid to balance cooling effectiveness, safety, and service life.

Outdoor liquid-cooled transformers usually use mineral oil, and liquid cooled transformers for inside use are filled with a synthetic liquid that is nonflammable and nonexplosive. Synthetic oil coolants must be handled with care as they sometimes cause skin irritations. One type, askarelinsulated transformers used in past years contained polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), which are known to cause cancer. Askarel has been banned by the Environmental Protection Agency and its use as a transformer coolant is being phased out. However, askarel coolants are still found throughout the electrical industry in older transformers and direct contact with them should be avoided. The NEC still contains provisions for installing askarel transformers. The following is a list of the different types of liquid-filled transformers recognized by the NEC:

Facility engineers should review application requirements, fire codes, and material compatibility when selecting oil for transformers to ensure compliance and dependable operation.

• Oil-Insulated--uses chemically untreated insulating oil
• Askarel—uses nonflammable insulating oil
• Less-Flammable Liquid-Insulated--uses reduced flammable insulating oil
• Nonflammable Fluid-Insulated--uses noncombustible liquid

Related Articles

• Dielectric Fluid Channel

Fundamental dielectric characteristics describe permittivity, dielectric constant, polarization, loss tangent, conductivity, and frequency response, guiding material selection, insulating performance, impedance behavior, and electric field interactions across applications in electronics, power systems, and RF design.

What Are Fundamental Dielectric Characteristics?

Material metrics like permittivity, loss tangent, and polarization that govern insulating behavior under electric fields

✅ Determines energy storage via permittivity and dielectric constant

✅ Quantifies dissipation with loss tangent and conductivity

✅ Captures frequency response, polarization, and dielectric breakdown

1. Introduction
For many years synthetic ester fluids were seen as specialist materials, only for use in unusual transformers, such as those in rolling stock, offshore installations and steel plants where fire safety was a prime consideration. However, in more recent times users are realizing that ester-based liquids could offer a more mainstream alternative to mineral oil and although these fluids are more expensive the overall project costs can be lower when taking into account factors such as reduced fire protection. In some space-constrained urban environments ester-based liquids may even become the preferred option, with the flammability and potential environmental impact of mineral oil making the design of modern installations extremely challenging. This type of situation has been seen with the latest 400kV projects incorporating synthetic ester fluids. For context, readers can review the fundamentals of dielectric fluids to understand how base chemistry influences flammability and environmental performance.

2. Standard AC Breakdown Testing
Standard test methods for assessing breakdown voltage of liquids typically employ small electrode gaps, of the order of ≤2.54mm. The electrode configuration can vary from spherical, through VDE type “mushroom” electrodes to disc electrodes. This type of testing is primarily used to give an evaluation of the cleanliness of a liquid since it gives very limited information about the actual dielectric performance. It can be seen by comparing the results in Table 1 that all the different types of liquids to be discussed in this paper give very similar results for a given electrode arrangement in this type of testing. Clarifying the definition of breakdown voltage in insulating oil helps interpret these short-gap results.

This could lead to the conclusion that all these liquids are equal in their dielectric performance, or that given a good result in the AC breakdown test one liquid is in some way superior to another. However, the true picture is more complex, since the electrical stress distribution is influenced by many factors such as electrode geometry, distance and materials types. Another key factor in the dielectric behavior is the wave shape of the applied voltage. AC voltage in the form of a clean sine wave is usually expected at frequencies of 50-60Hz depending on the geographical location. However, this is rarely the case with harmonics and other distortions of the pure waveform. In addition the prevalence of surges on the network must be accounted for; in testing this is usually characterized by two different types of event, either lightning surge or switching surge and there are standard waveforms established to test these.

In practice, understanding how oil in transformers behaves under distorted waveforms informs appropriate test selection.

So any dielectric system in a transformer must withstand AC conditions, switching impulse and lightning impulse, as well as chopped lightning impulse if this is specified. There may also be a requirement to withstand DC fields in some special cases and this adds an extra level of complexity.

When considering a new dielectric medium, therefore, all these aspects need to be tested and in the beginning researchers will look to comparisons with existing materials of known behavior to assess likely changes. As stated previously in terms of short gap AC behavior ester-based liquids are very similar to mineral oil and this gives some confidence that they can be used. For distribution class equipment up to 33kV the change to ester has required little in the way of detailed electrical design evaluation, since the electrical margins are large due to the need for excess solid insulation to provide mechanical strength. However as the voltage level rises there is less electrical margin and the need for routine impulse testing, both of which mean that greater steps are needed to evaluate design. So to begin using ester-based liquids in power class transformers there is a need to check impulse behavior over similarly short gaps to the AC tests, and this is where see some differences start to emerge.

Complementary programs of transformer oil analysis can track moisture, particles, and aging markers that strongly influence PD and impulse withstand.

3. Impulse Strength of Short Electrode Gaps
There are standard methods for measuring impulse breakdown with the ASTM D3300 being one popular method. The electrode arrangement for this test can be either needle to sphere, or sphere to sphere. In the first instance researchers started work with small electrode gaps employing a sphere-sphere set up, such as the example in Fig 1. utilized by the University of Manchester.

Fig.1. Arrangement for short gap impulse tests

In their testing, a number of different methods were applied for stepping up the test voltage, following the recommendations in different standards. This showed a lower impulse breakdown strength for the ester liquids and Fig 2. shows a summary of the results, with the maximum difference in breakdown voltage being of the order of 20%. In this case the mineral oil tested was Nynas Nytro Gemini X, the synthetic ester M&I Materials MIDEL 7131 and natural ester Cargill Envirotemp FR3. These observations are consistent with broader properties of transformer insulating oil related to ionization, space charge, and pre-breakdown dynamics.

Fig. 2. Results of impulse breakdown testing to various methods

4. Partial Discharge Inception
To further understand the mechanism behind the different behavior that was observed, researchers started looking at very divergent arrangements, for example a sharp needle of tip radius 6.5µm and sphere of radius 12.5mm, as this allows observation of phenomena in a liquid with manageable voltage levels.[3] This allowed the study of partial discharge inception, when the liquid begins to yield to the electrical field. When the researchers subjected this arrangement to AC they discovered that the PDIV of ester-based liquids with a gap of 50mm is actually very close to that of mineral oil.

In fact in the case of natural ester a higher PDIV was found than in mineral oil. This suggested that the reason for the difference in impulse breakdown behavior does not lie in discharge inception, although some different behavior was found in this study, especially in polarity, between mineral oil and esters. Mineral oil exhibits a very strong tendency to PD only in the positive half cycle of the AC waveform, i.e. when the needle is at a positive polarity. In the negative half cycle the required voltage to form PD is much higher than that of the PDIV. In the ester-based liquids the situation is somewhat different; PD was found in the negative half cycle at much closer voltages to the positive half cycle PDIV, as shown Fig. 3.

Fig. 3. PDIV in positive (left hand chart) and negative (right hand chart) half cycles

This indicated that the electrical behavior is not the same between the liquid types. It also throws up questions around the way mineral oil filled transformers are tested, i.e. is only testing with negative impulse a valid practice?

5. Streamer Propagation Behavior
The similarity in PDIV between esters and mineral oil required a closer look at propagation of electrical discharges. The next important step was then to look at the discharge channels in the liquids, known as streamers. This involved the combined techniques of electric measurement and visual imaging to detect how streamers form in liquids and how they propagate. Much of this work was conducted in parallel in different research institutions,where the same conclusion was drawn. Streamer propagation in esters is different to mineral oil, especially under very divergent fields, such as those the researchers were using. The key conclusion from this was a difference in so-called acceleration voltage when streamers move from slow mode propagation to fast mode.

In order for a flashover to occur it is necessary for the electrical current to find a path from one electrode to another and in liquids this occurs within a gaseous channel, known as a streamer. This channel will only propagate through the fluid if it has sufficient field strength to provide motive force and sufficient time. When considering AC behavior the time is relatively long, whereas under impulse conditions the time is extremely short. The standard wave shape for lightning impulse has a rise time of 1.2µs and fall time of 50µs to reach 50% of maximum. This means that the peak electrical field is only present for a matter of micro-seconds and in order to get propagation from one electrode to another, especially over longer oil gaps, the discharge must attain a high velocity. Streamers can be characterized by four different modes, as shown in Fig. 4.

Fig. 4. Streamer velocities and modes

The principle behind the connection between streamer mode and breakdown can be demonstrated with a simplified example. Taking a gap size of 50mm, if it is assumed that the liquid is only subjected to the voltage necessary to sustain propagation for 5µs then the streamer will need to attain a velocity of 10km/s or in other words be of Mode 3-4 to bridge the gap and cause a breakdown. Otherwise the streamer will only be characterised as a partial discharge. The transition from Mode 1/2 to Mode 3/4 can be characterised as the acceleration voltage.

A variety of researchers have looked at the acceleration voltage principle with esters and all agree that this is one area where these liquids differ from mineral oil. The charts in Fig. 5. show the behavior when the electrode system is extremely divergent, with esters having a substantially lower acceleration voltage than mineral oil, especially under positive polarity.

Fig. 5. Acceleration voltage under Positive polarity and Negative polarity at 50mm spacing

6. Testing with More Realistic Electrode Arrangements
Although this difference in acceleration voltage would appear to prevent the use of esters at higher voltages as the electrode arrangement becomes less divergent, inception begins to become more important for the withstand level. This supports the findings of researchers who have studied the behavior with varying levels of divergence in the electrodes, from homogenous through to highly divergent.

When thinking about the design of real world equipment and transformers for transmission levels, the more homogeneous case actually represents the majority of the configurations to be considered. Needle to plate type situations are avoided as part of good design and manufacturing, as it is known that these are electrically weak and prone to producing discharges. Consequently, criteria for selecting oil for transformers should consider field uniformity, surge exposure, and insulation geometry as well as fire safety.

Research looking at impulse behavior under more realistic arrangements has focussed on tap changer contacts, since these represent a more divergent part of power transformer designs. In this case the arrangement shown in Fig. 6. was used and the results obtained under impulse conditions showed very little difference between ester and mineral oil.

Fig. 6. Tap changer contacts used for natural ester evaluation

Fig. 7. shows the Weibull distribution for results obtained in this arrangement. This gives some confidence that even though the situation with a needle and plate looks unfavourable, as soon as the configuration starts to reflect the real world situation, the difference between esters and mineral oil becomes much smaller.

Fig. 7. Weibull distribution of lightning impulse breakdown under positive polarity

7. Laboratory Testing of Creepage Discharge and Flashover
Another area where divergence becomes important is over long creepage paths, where there is effectively a concentrated area of electrical field at one end, with a very long distance to the lower potential. A popular form of arrangement for testing creepage behavior is the so-called Weidmann set up, of a paper-wrapped or bare conductor in contact with a pressboard barrier, as shown in Fig 8.

Fig. 8. Weidmann electrode arrangement

When this type of arrangement has been tested over gap sizes up to 35mm it has been found that esters give similar flashover results to mineral oil, as shown in Table 3. The difference between the liquids in this arrangement is small - not even as large as that found in small oil gaps. This suggests that even though design modification may be necessary, there is not the very large difference that might be assumed if the acceleration voltage in extremely divergent set up was used.

8. Testing in Prototype Transformers
Another area where more focus may be required with an ester based liquid is over very long creepage paths far beyond the distances tested with the Weidmann arrangement, since the fundamental investigations indicate that propagation is key. Experience from real transformer prototypes has shown that failure modes over extremely long paths support the faster propagation model. Researchers from Brazil found that when testing a single phase 245kV prototype transformer, in natural ester, designed to mineral oil rules, the natural ester failed at 100% of Basic Insulation Level (BIL) rating, when tested with lightning impulse along a long gap discharge path, as shown in Fig.
3. This unit had an HV winding with a center connection coil.

Fig. 9. Model of winding showing discharge path

The designers of this transformer noted that although they experienced this failure it does not prevent the use of esters at higher voltage. However, there may need to be more design margin and closer attention paid to peak stress areas and long creepage paths. Thermal design and transformer cooling also affect viscosity and bubble formation, which in turn impact dielectric margins at high stress.

This is a theme that is often mentioned in the industry when discussing ester-based liquids and the necessary design changes. It is important to note that a growing number of manufacturers have carried out their own research in addition to the published works; to date there are a number of transformers successfully operating at 400kV+ with esters. There are also many other projects in development, and the expectation is that in the coming years esters will move from a being a product used in niche applications to one deployed in mainstream installations.

9. Conclusions
Over the last fifteen years a great deal of research has been conducted into understanding the electrical behavior of ester-based liquids, under a range of different conditions. This has been driven by a desire for safer, more environmentally friendly transformers.

The laboratory based test arrangements with extremely divergent fields indicate a difference in the streamer propagation behavior between esters and mineral oil, which may mean designers need to pay attention to certain portions of the dielectric structure. Evaluations with more realistic electrode arrangements indicate that although there is a difference in behavior, this will not prevent the use of esters at higher voltages. The experience in real world applications, where esters are now utilized for power transformers for 400kV+ also supports this assertion.

The key aspects for designers when considering ester-based liquids are to design a discharge-free transformer; extra margin may be needed over long creepage paths and in divergent arrangements to compensate for the higher probability of propagation. This could be summarized by saying that with mineral oil, discharges may occur, without flashover, but in ester there is a higher probability of discharge becoming breakdown.

Related Articles

• Dielectric Fluid Channel

Advancements in dissolved gas analysis2 deliver smarter transformer condition monitoring, predictive maintenance, and fault diagnostics via online sensors, IEC 60599 methods, Duval Triangle analytics, and machine learning for grid reliability.

What Are Advancements in Dissolved Gas Analysis2?

Modern DGA methods using online sensors, IEC standards, and AI to diagnose transformer faults proactively.

✅ Real-time gas monitoring via online chromatographs and sensors

✅ AI and Duval Triangle enhance fault classification accuracy

✅ Standards-based analysis per IEC 60599 supports maintenance

One of the most important steps when looking at DGA data is to decide whether the data support the existence of a fault that is actively breaking down the insulation before you try to use a triangle, pentagon, or gas ratio method to identify a fault type. Otherwise, you are diagnosing random measurement noise, not the transformer. Conventional methods assign limits to each of the gases to detect and assess abnormal gas formation. Formerly it was common practice to add gas concentrations together to get total dissolved combustible gas (TDCG). The hope was to simplify the task of detecting abnormal gas production and interpreting rates of change. This, however, was equivalent to counting U.S. Dollars, Mexican Pesos, Bitcoins, and Canadian Loonies and thinking that the sum represented “value”.  To reduce false positives from sensor drift and sampling errors, recent work on advancements in DGA data quality outlines practical controls for sampling, calibration, and trending.

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Chemistry dictates that each gas we observe requires a different amount of energy to break away from the original insulating material. Instead of trying to interpret several indi­vidual gas concentrations, why not follow the energy associ­ated with the gassing? The energies required to form the gas can be weighted by the gas concentrations and added up. 

For a grounding in principles and typical fault signatures, see this overview of dissolved gas analysis techniques and their diagnostic use.

This idea of using standard heats of formation of fault gases for DGA was worked out in Jakob et al. 2012 and demonstrated to be an improvement compared to TDCG and other gas concentration sums. Soon after that, chemist Fredi Jakob realized that it would be better to create a fault energy index, which he called normalized energy intensity (NEI), to represent the influence of an internal fault on the insulating oil. That idea was presented in Jakob & Dukarm 2015, where it was shown that NEI was very useful for trending fault severity and not partial to any particular fault types. The figure illustrates how trending cumulative NEI simpli.es the detection of suspicious gas production.  For additional context on modern interpretation frameworks, review these advancements in dissolved gas analysis that compare energy-based indices with classical ratio methods.

NEI, now renamed NEI-HC, is based on the low molecular weight hydrocarbon gases generated from cracking mineral oil. Another fault energy index, called NEI-CO, is based on the carbon oxide gases formed by pyrolysis of cellulose in paper insulation. The formulas for NEI-HC and NEI-CO are shown in Equations (1) and (2) below. Since each set of gases comes from a different insulation material, you can assess and track which faults are affecting paper, hot metal in the oil, or both. That knowledge can help point to the root cause and better estimate the severity of the problem. When paper degradation is suspected, trends can be corroborated with guidance on the CO/CO2 ratio in DGA to strengthen evidence for thermal versus oxidative effects.

Because NEI-HC derives from oil cracking, selecting and maintaining a high-quality transformer insulating oil is essential for resilient performance under thermal stress.

NEI-HC = 77.7[CH4] + 93.5[C2H6] + 104.1[C2H4] + 278.3[C2H2] / 22400     (1)                      
NEI-CO = 101.4[CO] + 30.19[CO2] /  22400   (2)

The highest heat of formation for the hydrocarbons is C2H2 and for carbon oxides it is CO. This physically confirms the general intuition that these gases are the most concerning to see in transformer DGA.  These concerns underscore why routine transformer oil analysis remains central to risk-based maintenance planning.

You can trend fault energy indices to identify gassing epi­sodes and relate them to external events such as through faults, maintenance work orders, and load changes to help determine what might have triggered the gassing. Also, you can track the cumulative energy over the history of the transformer to coun­teract effects of gas-loss (see previous article in this series).  Interpreting those trends alongside the unit's fundamental dielectric characteristics helps differentiate benign load-related gassing from insulation distress.

Related Articles

• Dielectric Fluid Channel

Oil for transformers acts as a vital dielectric fluid, providing insulation, cooling, and arc suppression. By reducing heat buildup and protecting internal components, high-quality transformer oil ensures safe, efficient, and long-lasting performance in distribution systems.

What is Oil for Transformers?

Oil for transformers is a specialized insulating and cooling medium used in electrical transformers. It ensures safe, efficient, and long-lasting operation.

✅ Provides electrical insulation between windings and core

✅ Dissipates heat to prevent overheating and equipment failure

✅ Suppresses arcing and prolongs unit service life

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Oil for transformers plays a critical role as a dielectric fluid, ensuring the safe and efficient operation of electrical transformers. The type of fluid used maintains the integrity of both paper insulation and solid insulation, ensuring efficient performance in fluid-filled electrical systems. As an insulating medium, it not only prevents electrical breakdown but also helps in cooling the equipment by dissipating the heat generated during operation. Equipment liquid, typically mineral-based or synthetic, is designed to offer excellent electrical insulation properties, enhance operational longevity, and protect against faults or failures. This fluid is essential for maintaining the equipment’s performance, safeguarding against short circuits, and improving overall system reliability. In this article, we’ll explore the importance of liquid in equipment, its types, and why it's crucial for both electrical safety and efficiency. Utilities rely on distribution transformers filled with high-quality oil to ensure reliable service across neighborhoods and industrial facilities.

Transformer Oil Comparison Table

Types of Transformer Oil

Equipment is typically filled with mineral liquid, which has been the most commonly used insulating liquid due to its stability, thermal performance, and cost-effectiveness. However, recent advancements have led to the development of alternative liquids, such as natural esters, which offer improved environmental benefits and higher fire points, reducing the risk of fire hazards. These alternative liquids also contain small amounts of fatty acids that enhance their oxidation stability and performance under high temperatures. The construction of transformers includes the careful integration of insulating oil to protect windings and cores from overheating and electrical breakdown.

Electromagnetic Operation and Insulation

The electromagnetic operation of equipment involves the flow of current through windings, which induces magnetic fields and generates heat. Proper cooling and insulation are necessary to maintain the efficiency of this process. The liquid not only aids in cooling but also provides protection to the windings and contacts inside the equipment. Contact configurations within the equipment determine how electrical circuits connect and disconnect, and the insulating properties of the liquid prevent unintended short circuits or failures. The role of transformer insulation is closely tied to oil performance, ensuring both dielectric strength and thermal management.

Different Types of Transformer Oils

Different types of liquid equipment are available, including mineral-based and synthetic alternatives. Mineral liquids have been widely used for decades due to their proven reliability; however, concerns over their environmental impact have led to the adoption of biodegradable options, such as natural esters. These fluids offer a high fire point and enhanced oxidation resistance, making them an attractive choice for applications where fire safety and sustainability are priorities.

Applications of Transformer Oil

The applications of equipment liquid extend beyond just insulation and cooling. It also plays a crucial role in suppressing arcing within the equipment and ensuring the longevity of its components. Over time, however, liquid can degrade due to exposure to high temperatures, moisture, and contaminants. This degradation can compromise its insulating and cooling abilities, making regular oil testing essential. By conducting routine liquid testing, engineers can assess the condition of the liquid, identify contamination, and determine whether it needs to be replaced or treated. High-voltage units, such as power transformers, rely on oil with stable dielectric properties to withstand demanding grid conditions.

Principles of Liquid Operation

The operation principles of the equipment liquid are closely tied to the efficiency of the equipment itself. When the equipment is energized, the liquid absorbs and transfers heat, maintaining a stable operating temperature. Any significant degradation in the liquid’s properties can lead to insulation failure and reduced performance. Ensuring that the liquid maintains its high dielectric strength is crucial for the equipment’s long-term reliability. Modern condition monitoring systems often track transformer oil quality, enabling predictive maintenance and reducing costly outages.

Fire Safety and Flash Point Considerations

Another key property of equipment liquid is its flash point, which determines the temperature at which the liquid can vaporize and ignite. A higher flash point indicates better fire resistance, reducing the risk of fires in electrical substations and industrial settings. Regular monitoring of the liquid’s flash point, along with other relevant properties, is a crucial step in ensuring equipment safety.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Dielectric liquid, and why is it used in electrical transformers?

Dielectric liquid is a specially refined mineral liquid used in electrical equipment as an insulating and cooling medium. It helps to insulate the equipment’s internal components, preventing electrical breakdown. Additionally, it dissipates heat generated during operation to keep the equipment at an optimal temperature, ensuring efficiency and preventing damage from overheating. Understanding transformer oil is key to extending equipment life, preventing faults, and maintaining overall system reliability.

What are the different types of oil used in transformers?

The two main types of oil used in equipment are mineral oil and synthetic oil.

• Mineral oil, derived from petroleum, is the most commonly used liquid in equipment due to its excellent insulating properties, cost-effectiveness, and widespread availability. It is further divided into highly refined mineral liquid and less refined options.

• Synthetic oils are man-made liquids designed to perform better at extreme temperatures and provide enhanced thermal stability. They are typically used in situations requiring higher performance or in environments with strict environmental and safety regulations.

How does equipment liquid prevent electrical breakdown?

Equipment liquid prevents electrical breakdown by providing high dielectric strength, which allows the equipment to handle high voltage without risk of failure. The liquid acts as an insulating barrier between electrical components, such as conductors and windings, reducing the chance of short circuits. Its insulating properties ensure that electrical discharges or arcing do not occur, thereby maintaining the equipment's stability.

What is the role of transformer oil in cooling and heat dissipation?

The primary role of equipment liquid in cooling is to absorb the heat generated by the electrical components inside the equipment during operation. The oil circulates through the equipment, transferring heat away from the core and winding. It then releases the heat through the outer surfaces or the radiator system, maintaining an optimal operating temperature to avoid overheating, which could damage internal components and shorten the equipment’s lifespan.

How can transformer oil be tested for quality?

Transformer liquid can be tested for quality using several methods, including:

• Dielectric strength testing to check for the liquid's insulating properties.

• Acidity tests to detect the presence of contaminants that could cause corrosion or degradation.

• Moisture content analysis is performed to ensure the liquid remains free of water, which can reduce its insulation effectiveness.

• Color and appearance tests to identify contaminants, oxidation, or breakdown.

Transformer liquid should be replaced when it shows signs of contamination, degradation, or when its dielectric strength drops below the acceptable level. Regular monitoring and testing can help determine when liquid replacement or filtration is necessary to ensure the continued safe and efficient operation of the equipment.

Oil for transformers serves as an essential insulating and cooling medium in electrical equipment, ensuring optimal performance and longevity. Mineral liquid, the most commonly used type, helps dissipate the heat generated during operation, preventing overheating that could lead to equipment failure. It also provides electrical insulation, preventing short circuits and electrical faults by maintaining the integrity of the equipment's internal components. Additionally, liquid serves as a barrier against moisture and contaminants, further enhancing the reliability and safety of the equipment. Over time, liquid may degrade, requiring periodic monitoring and replacement to maintain its effectiveness.