In the transformer, a complex and precise electromagnetic energy converter, the insulating plate is by no means an insignificant supporting role. It is like a silent guardian deity, ensuring the safety, reliability, and longevity of transformers through the following four core functions.
1、 Building an Electrical 'Insulation Great Wall'
This is the fundamental and crucial mission of insulation boards. There is a huge potential difference inside the transformer, especially between the high-voltage winding and the low-voltage winding, and between the winding and the grounded iron core. The insulation board builds a strong barrier with high impedance in these critical areas, which can effectively prevent current from flowing to inappropriate places and prevent breakdown and short circuits from occurring. Without this' Great Wall of Insulation ', transformers will not function properly and will be instantly damaged.
2、 Building a mechanical 'support framework'
When a transformer is in operation, a strong alternating current can generate enormous electric force in the winding, which may cause vibration and displacement. The insulation board (such as spacers, pads, and insulation cylinders) constitutes the "skeleton" inside the transformer, which:
Secure support: Maintain precise distance between windings and between windings and iron cores.
Resistance to deformation: prevent the winding from loosening, deforming, or collapsing under electromagnetic force or external impact, ensuring the mechanical stability of the internal structure.
3、 Planning thermal energy "evacuation routes"
Transformers are "major heat generators" and heat is the main killer of their lifespan. The insulation board plays a clever role in the heat dissipation system:
Forming oil channels: Insulation supports and pads are designed with vertical and horizontal channels between windings, creating pathways for the circulation of transformer oil. Cooling oil can take away heat through these channels, achieving efficient heat dissipation.
Auxiliary thermal conductivity: High quality insulation materials themselves also have certain thermal conductivity properties, which can help dissipate the heat generated by the winding and avoid local overheating.
4、 Provide security "protection"
In addition to the main functions mentioned above, the insulation board is also a safety defense line:
High temperature resistance and flame retardancy: They are made of special materials such as insulation cardboard, Nomex, and epoxy board, which can maintain stable performance under high temperatures during long-term operation of transformers and play a flame retardant role in abnormal situations.
Isolation of Pollution: Prevent impurities and pollutants from accumulating in critical insulation areas and maintain internal cleanliness.
summary
In short, insulation board is a versatile tool in transformers:
It is an "insulation guard" that isolates current and ensures safety;
It is a 'structural skeleton' that supports, fixes, and maintains its form;
It is a 'heat dissipation engineer', responsible for directing heat and maintaining low temperatures;
It is a 'safety barrier' that is highly tolerant and prevents malfunctions.
Therefore, the selection, design, and manufacturing quality of insulation boards directly determine the performance, capacity, reliability, and even service life of transformers, and are essential core components.
