Modular substation containing cast resin transformer and associated switchgear
A number of specialised transformers have been designed for a liquified natural gas (LNG) plant being constructed in northern Mozambique.
The custom-designed solution for the LNG mega-project, reportedly the largest-ever single foreign direct investment in Africa, is being supplied in a strategic partnership with dry-type transformer specialists Trafo Power Solutions and Italian technology company TMC Transformers.
The 20 transformers range from 400 kVA to 1 600 kVA and are housed in IP56 enclosures to ensure high levels of ingress protection. The transformers are designed to operate reliably in humid and dusty outdoor conditions, providing continuous rated power without the use of any forced cooling. The specialised design accommodates elements such as temperature rise, losses and insulation systems, making each unit suitable for the application and load it will supply.
The company explains that the transformers will step down voltages from 6 600 V in the medium voltage network to 420 V required in the plant and will supply various motor control centres. The specific designs aim to meet the requirements for various different impedances, voltages and K-factors for non-linear loading.
Trafo Power Solutions will also be supplying dry-type transformers for a Zone 2 hazardous area of the plant. The company emphasises the safety advantages of dry-type transformers, which do not use oil as a coolant and therefore pose no fire, explosion or environmental hazards. The transformers are also designed to ensure minimal maintenance, which is seen as an important benefit when located on a remote site.