An agriculturally based biodegradable dielectric fluid

The development of a biodegradable dielectric fluid from agricultural sources is described. This material originated in a research prestudy and culminated in field implementation in the last year. Benefits include a more environmentally-friendly insulating fluid possessing a high flash and fire point and excellent dielectric capabilities. The fluid is suitable for use in electrical transformers and is being studied for use in other electrical apparatus such as cables, bushings, capacitors and tap changers where nonbiodegradable fluids are presently used. The properties of the fluid are compared to conventional mineral oil-based insulating fluids as well as other synthetic dielectric fluids. Design considerations for equipment containing this alternative fluid are also described. Life testing in the laboratory and field performance of units with this insulating fluid are discussed.