A new vegetable oil based transformer fluid: development and verification

A new transformer insulating fluid developed from vegetable oil sources is described. Its development required the selection of a suitable base oil, its purification to electrical grade, and its stabilization by antioxidants. The new fluid, designated BIOTEMP, is fully biodegradable and performs well at elevated temperatures. It is intended as an environmentally friendly fluid for use in transformers located in areas where oil spills and contamination of the surroundings are of concern.