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Transformers are elements of the utmost importance in the layout of power grids. Their usable lifespan depends on various factors, amongst them, the temperature within their own interior, specially the localized temperature on their insulating material components. Such temperatures are usually approximated through proposed guideline models, however, as stated, these values are approximations and realtime direct measurements would be much more desirable. Due to purely economic reasons, direct measurement is often used for power transformers. However, in the advent of "Smart Grids" distribution system instrumentation will be necessary, as well as the use of cleaner technologies. For research purposes, in this paper, the authors will discuss their experiences in instrumentation with optical fibers in four different distribution transformers submerged in mineral and vegetable oil, for thermal evaluation. The transformers have capacities that range from 15 kVA to 37,5 kVA and operate at voltages of 7620 V/ 240 V. This paper also explains the process of identifying which are the optimal temperature measurement points in the interior of the transformer and leads into the results of temperature rise tests with simulated loads through the use of short circuits and through constant reference fault and actual load at two levels to compare measurements within each of the transformers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since the start of transformers immersed in refrigerating liquid, the fluid traditionally used has been mineral oil. However, in recent decades, efforts have been joined in the search for alternatives with a lower environmental impact and which also satisfy the technical requirements of insulation and refrigeration in the transformers. Currently, insulating vegetable oils are available in the market, which may have lower environmental impact during their use and final disposition; nevertheless, their high cost and short time of use have limited their massive application. This work presents the thermal behavior evaluation of two distribution transformers at different powers immersed in dielectric vegetable oil, comparing their performance with that of two constructively equal transformers immersed in mineral oil. The results obtained reveal that the transformers comply with the requirements of existing standards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since the early 1990s, dielectric fluids have been developed from plants. The use of plants has the main advantage of improving the limitations of petroleum oils. Plant fluids are highly biodegradable and have a high flash point; but their high cost and their not-very-wide in-service evaluation (performance), because of its relatively short time of use, have limited their application. This study reviews the state of the art of dielectric oils of plant origin to be used in transformers, including an overview of their evolution from their origin until today. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]