Why Substation Transformers Are So Important In Power Systems?

01 Sep.,2025

 

Why Substation Transformers Are So Important In Power Systems?

In North America, substation transformers serve as the backbone of power distribution networks, seamlessly stepping up or stepping down voltage levels to facilitate the efficient transmission of electricity. These transformers enable electricity generated at power plants to be transmitted over long distances, reducing energy losses and optimizing the utilization of electrical energy.

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Versatility and Customization

One of the key strengths of substation transformers lies in their versatility and customizable design. Manufacturers like Daelim Transformer specialize in tailoring transformers to meet specific project requirements, whether for industrial, commercial, or residential applications. From compact designs suitable for urban installations to robust units serving expansive mining operations, these transformers adapt to diverse operational needs with precision.

Compliance and Reliability

Certified under UL, cUL, CSA, and CE standards, substation transformers from reputable manufacturers ensure compliance with rigorous safety and performance benchmarks. Daelim Transformer, with over 20 years of experience in international projects, adheres to ANSI, IEEE, CSA, DOE, and NEMA standards, guaranteeing reliability and longevity in operation.

Applications Across Industries

The utility of substation transformers extends across various sectors, exemplified by projects such as the Canadian 66 kV Power system, Australian mining ventures, and large-scale power distribution grids in the USA. These transformers support critical infrastructures, enhancing operational efficiency and meeting the demanding power requirements of modern industrial and residential developments.

Technological Advancements

Advancements in transformer technology, including innovative cooling systems, enhanced energy efficiency, and smart monitoring capabilities, further underscore their importance in modern power systems. Features like forced air cooling, HV lightning arresters, and advanced temperature indicators contribute to optimized performance and reduced maintenance overheads.

Economic and Operational Benefits

From an economic standpoint, the selection of an appropriate substation transformer capacity is crucial. Over-sizing can lead to unnecessary initial investments and operational inefficiencies, while under-sizing risks equipment damage and operational constraints. Daelim Transformer's expertise ensures optimal transformer selection, balancing capacity requirements with operational flexibility and cost-effectiveness.

What Is The Purpose Of A Substation Transformer?

The Substation Transformer can not only increase the voltage to send electric energy to the electricity-consuming area, but also reduce the voltage to the voltage used at all levels to meet the needs of electricity consumption. In short, both step-up and step-down must be completed by the transformer.

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 In the process of transmitting electrical energy in the power system, two losses of voltage and power will inevitably occur. When the same power is transmitted, the voltage loss is inversely proportional to the voltage, and the power loss is inversely proportional to the square of the voltage. The use of transformers to increase the voltage reduces transmission losses.

What Role Does A Substation Transformer Play In The System?

Substation transformers are one of the main equipment in power plants and substations. The function of the transformer is multi-faceted. It can not only increase the voltage and send the electric energy to the electricity-consuming area but also reduce the voltage to the voltage used at all levels to meet the needs of electricity consumption.

Using a substation transformer to increase the voltage reduces transmission losses.

The main functions include:

1. Transmission and distribution of electrical energy. If it is a step-up transformer, it can send electricity out. If it is a step-down transformer, the electric energy can be transmitted or distributed separately;

2. The rated voltage of the primary and secondary sides can be changed;

3. The phase angle of the primary and secondary sides can be changed.

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What Is The Basic Principle And Working Principle Of ASubstation Transformer?

Basic Principle:

The basic structural components of a substation transformer are the iron core and windings, which form the body of the transformer.

 To improve the heat dissipation conditions, the body of the large and medium-capacity transformers is immersed in a closed oil tank filled with transformer oil, and the connection between each winding and the external circuit is led out through an insulating sleeve.

To make the transformer operate safely and reliably, accessories such as an oil conservator, gas relay, and safety air passage are also provided.

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What Is An Ideal Substation Transformer?

An ideal substation transformer is an idealized model of an actual transformer, an ideal scientific abstraction of mutual inductance components, and a coupled inductance in the extreme case.

Several idealized conditions for an ideal transformer:

Condition 1: There is no loss, it is considered that the wire around the coil has no resistance, and the magnetic permeability of the ferromagnetic material used as the core is infinite.

Condition 2: There is no leakage flux, that is, Φs1=Φs2=0, coupling coefficient K=1, it is full coupling, so Φ11=Φ21, Φ22=Φ12.

Condition 3: The parameters are infinite, that is, the self-inductance coefficient and the mutual inductance coefficient.

but satisfy:

In the above formula, N 1 and N 2 are the turns of the primary and secondary coils of the transformer, respectively, and n is the turns ratio. The above three conditions cannot be satisfied in engineering practice, but in some practical engineering estimates, within the allowable error range, the actual substation transformer is treated as an ideal transformer, which can simplify the calculation process.

Since K=1, L1→∞, L2→∞, there is M→∞.

In short, an ideal substation transformer is a transformer with no magnetic loss, no copper loss, and no iron loss.

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Daelim Substation Transformer Projects

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Transformers - Siemens Energy

A transformer is made up of several key components that work together to efficiently transfer electrical energy between circuits. Understanding these parts is essential for grasping how transformers function in power systems.

1. Core

The core is made of laminated steel sheets and serves as the magnetic pathway for the transformer.

It provides a low-resistance path for magnetic flux, which is essential for efficient energy transfer.

2. Windings (Coils)

Primary Winding: Connected to the input voltage source; it creates a magnetic field when current flows through it.

Secondary Winding: Connected to the output circuit; it receives energy from the magnetic field and delivers the transformed voltage.

Windings are made of copper or aluminum and are insulated to prevent short circuits.

3. Insulation

Insulation materials (like paper, oil, or epoxy) prevent electrical contact between windings and the core, ensuring safe operation.

4. Transformer Oil

Used in oil-filled transformers to cool the core and windings and provide additional insulation.

It helps dissipate heat generated during operation.

5. Conservator Tank

Found in larger transformers, this tank accommodates the expansion and contraction of transformer oil due to temperature changes.

6. Breather

Contains silica gel to absorb moisture from the air entering the conservator tank, keeping the oil dry and effective.

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7. Buchholz Relay

A safety device that detects gas accumulation or oil movement inside the transformer, indicating potential faults.

8. Cooling System

Includes radiators, fans, or pumps to maintain optimal operating temperature and prevent overheating.

9. Tap Changer

Adjusts the transformer's output voltage by changing the turns ratio of the windings.

Can be on-load (adjustable while operating) or off-load (adjustable when de-energized).

10. Tank

The outer casing that houses and protects the internal components from environmental factors.

ransformers are used everywhere electricity flows. They play a vital role in powering our modern world by adjusting voltage levels to match different needs. Here are some of the most common applications:

???? Power Generation & Transmission

Step-up transformers increase voltage at power plants so electricity can travel long distances efficiently through transmission lines.

???? Residential & Commercial Use

Step-down transformers reduce voltage before electricity enters homes, offices, and retail spaces—making it safe for everyday use.

???? Industrial Facilities

Transformers power heavy machinery and equipment by delivering the right voltage for manufacturing, mining, and processing operations.

???? Hospitals & Data Centers

Provide stable and reliable power to critical infrastructure where even a brief outage can have serious consequences.

???? Railways & Public Transport

Used in electric trains and metro systems to supply the correct voltage for traction motors and control systems.

???? Renewable Energy Systems

Solar and wind farms use transformers to connect to the grid and manage variable power output.

The core material of a transformer plays a crucial role in its efficiency, performance, and energy loss characteristics. The core is responsible for carrying the magnetic flux generated by the windings, and the type of material used directly impacts how effectively this flux is transferred.

Key Ways Core Material Affects Transformer Performance:

1. Magnetic Permeability

Materials with high magnetic permeability (like silicon steel or amorphous metal) allow magnetic flux to pass through easily, reducing core losses and improving efficiency.

2. Core Losses (Hysteresis and Eddy Currents)

Hysteresis Loss: Occurs due to the repeated magnetization and demagnetization of the core. Materials with low hysteresis loss, such as grain-oriented silicon steel, help minimize energy waste.

Eddy Current Loss: Induced currents in the core generate heat. Laminated core materials reduce these currents and associated losses.

3. Efficiency

High-quality core materials reduce both hysteresis and eddy current losses, leading to higher transformer efficiency and lower operating costs.

4. Temperature Rise

Poor core materials generate more heat, requiring more robust cooling systems. Efficient core materials help maintain lower operating temperatures, extending the transformer's lifespan.

5. Size and Weight

Advanced materials like amorphous metal allow for more compact and lightweight transformer designs without sacrificing performance.

Common Core Materials:

Grain-Oriented Silicon Steel: Most widely used; offers excellent magnetic properties and low core losses.

Amorphous Metal: Ultra-low core losses; ideal for energy-efficient distribution  transformers.

Ferrite: Used in high-frequency transformers due to low eddy current losses.

Conclusion: Choosing the right core material is essential for optimizing transformer performance, reducing energy losses, and ensuring long-term reliability.

Siemens Energy offers a complete range of transformer services designed to enhance performance, extend operational lifespan, and safeguard your investment. Whether for routine maintenance or emergency response, their tailored solutions ensure your transformer assets remain reliable, efficient, and ready to meet operational demands.

Preventive Maintenance & Monitoring

Advanced diagnostics, oil analysis, and real-time condition monitoring to identify potential issues early and prevent costly failures.

Repair & Refurbishment

Factory and on-site repair solutions, including mobile workshops and oil treatment systems, customized to your specific operational requirements.

Transformer Oil Services

Comprehensive oil regeneration, drying, and moisture control services to preserve insulation quality and prolong transformer lifespan.

Installation & Commissioning

Expert teams ensure the safe and efficient setup and integration of new or refurbished transformers for seamless operation.

Lifecycle Asset Management

Strategic services aligned with ISO standards, including condition assessments, risk analysis, and spare parts management to optimize asset performance.

Mobile Resilience Units

Rapidly deployable units designed to maintain power continuity during outages or planned maintenance activities.

On-Site Service Solutions

Flexible on-location support, from diagnostics and repairs to upgrades and retrofits, reducing downtime and eliminating the need for asset transport.

These services are engineered to keep transformers operating smoothly—regardless of their age, type, or manufacturer—helping you reduce costs, improve reliability, and achieve your sustainability objectives.

Are you interested in learning more about Power Transformer Solution? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!