Suggestion: The four winding transformers are produced and installed. If properly protected, they will last as any other transformers. In the more remote past, GE Co. Catalog transformer section indicated percentage of additional cost for an additional transformer winding. It was a relatively small percentage, e.g. 15% or so for an extra winding. If an extra winding saves extra primary winding and extra transformer, the overall savings are big. Also, the larger transformer, more iron, is more likely to withstand short circuits on its secondary windings. However, there may be some voltage dip impacts of a short in one of those secondary windings on the other ones that do not experience any short. This may be viewed as an immediate drawback. However, the systems are supposed to be ready for voltage dips; therefore, this shortcoming can be somewhat downplayed.