Application of Polymer Matrix Composites in Large Power Transformer Tanks

Large Power Transformers (LPT) are a major element of the modern transmission grid. The tanks of traditional LPTs are made of low carbon steel which could contribute to their overall weight. This study provides a preliminary evaluation and selection process to modernize LPT tank materials following well-established principles of advanced materials engineering. A primary objective of this study was to select an advanced material for an LPT tank to make it more resilient to potential in-service structural damage. The selection process resulted in five advanced composite materials based on glass and carbon fibers with epoxy and phenolic resins employing two different fiber architectures. These composites were further screened to identify the most suitable materials considering several environmental conditions that the tank could be exposed to in service. As part of the final materials selection analysis, the Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to the Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) method was employed for the final ranking of the LPT tank replacement materials. Preliminary recommendations of modifications to the composites to withstand the effects of the thermal, electrical, and electromagnetic environment of the LPT are presented.