Improvement of Dielectric Characteristics of Used Transformer Oil as Liquid Insulation in Power Transformer

Transformer oil plays a vital role in electrical apparatus by providing insulation and cooling functions. Over a period, it gradually accumulates impurities like sludge, moisture, dissolved gases, acids, metallic products, carbon, and oxidation products. These will reduce the dielectric strength and reliability of the oil. This paper focuses mainly on creating a sustainable solution by blending the reclaimed transformer oil and new transformer oil to restore its properties and performance and extend its life. The process starts with the reclamation of used oil through filtration using filter paper and thermal treatment, which helps to remove impurities and reclaim its properties. After such treatments, the reclaimed transformer oil is blended with unused transformer oil in various proportions. The blend ratios are designed using the Simple Lattice Design (SLD) method, which helps to understand how the different combinations affect the oil properties. Critical factors like breakdown voltage, viscosity, flash point, fire point, and acidity are evaluated to make sure that the oil meets its operational specifications. To find the most efficient formulation, findings are analysed using statistical analysis tools like Analysis of Variance (ANOVA). This technique helps to encourage sustainable practices like recycling, and it is also helpful in extending the service life of the oil.