Aluminum Transformer windings-Areva Transformers
Aluminum Transformer windings-Areva Transformers
(OP)
Our Coop is bidding out some 1000 Kva 7.2/14.4 autotransformers (the usual "needed it yesterday" type of bid). We got a very attractive bid from Areva (formerly Alstrom) Transformers. The two things that concern us are that we have no experience with this company, nor with the aluminum windings they will be using. We do not have any engineers on staff.
Does anyone have any experience with Areva they would care to share? Also, are there any significant drawbacks to aluminum windings?
Does anyone have any experience with Areva they would care to share? Also, are there any significant drawbacks to aluminum windings?






RE: Aluminum Transformer windings-Areva Transformers
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I hope this helps
RE: Aluminum Transformer windings-Areva Transformers
Some transformer manufacturers say copper and aluminum can now give equal reliability.
http://www.alfatransformer.com/coppervsalum.htm
http://www.uptegraff.com/faqs.html
I would say if you are in a bid process and some companies are quoting aluminum while others are quoting copper, it is not a fair bidding process.. If the spec did spec copper than Areva isn't meeting it. If the spec didn't spec copper, than ask the other company why they chose the more expensive copper route... maybe they have some info to share on why they don't like aluminum.
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RE: Aluminum Transformer windings-Areva Transformers
Also consider there may be some differences in efficiency among transformers. The link showed aluminium slightly lower I assume efficiency will be reviewed in the decision process.
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RE: Aluminum Transformer windings-Areva Transformers
For "throw-away" distribution transformers, aluminum windings may make sense if your loss analysis shows them to be less expensive in the long run. But for a substation transformer that I cared about and would not want to have out of service for a long period of time, I would stick with copper windings.
RE: Aluminum Transformer windings-Areva Transformers
Aluminum strip is commonly used for low voltage windings of distribution transformers. With strip windings, the forces are radial so there is less concern with movement. I would not be concerned with the use of aluminum strip for the secondary.
Primary windings are generally varnished copper or aluminum wire. One concern with aluminum wire, at least for smaller ratings, is the physical strength of the wire connections.