Soybean Oil Offers Benefits as Fluid Replacement for Transformers
Cooper Power Systems reported that Monroe County Electric Co-operative has joined a number
of other utilities to switch the fluid in their overhead transformers to a soy oil based dielectric fluid, referred to as
Envirotemp FR3 fluid. Others that have already selected the product included the Sacramento Municipal Utility District and
Tipmont REMC.
Commenting on the safety and efficiency benefits of the soy based
fluid was Alan Wattles, CEO at Monroe County Electric Co-Op. "This changeover makes sense for us on a number of levels. The
benefits of Envirotemp FR3 fluid correspond to issues that matter greatly to our constituency, including fire safety and environmental
stewardship. The communities we service are growing rapidly, over three percent annually for the past eight years, and FR3
fluid allows us to run heavier loads through the current system without having to purchase additional equipment, keeping capital
expenditure costs down."
Wattles also mentioned the benefits it would have in his country
and local farmers, "FR3 fluid comes from a renewable source that lessens our dependence on foreign oil. This decision supports
the soybean farmer, both locally and across the nation. Soybean plays an important role in the agricultural landscape of Illinois
and we're proud to do our part to keep it vital and strong."
According to Cooper Power, the transformer industry requires 75
million gallons a year of fluid for its transformers. This represents about 1.2 million acres of soybean.
Each acre of soybeans produces enough oil for four overhead transformers.
The U.S. transformer industry requires almost 75 million gallons a year for all new transformer installations - equivalent
to 1.2 million acres of soybean production.
The Envirotemp FR3 fluid is a biodegradable dielectric fluid and
is classified as an Underwriters Laboratories less-flammable fluid. The company also indicates the fluid extends paper insulation
life five to eight times resulting in increased transformer life and hence offers utilities a way to lower capital expenditures.
