1. Application of Plate Radiators
Plate radiators are heat exchangers used in transformer systems. Their design features a structure made from metal plates.
2. Working Principle of Plate Radiators
Hot transformer oil from the upper part of the transformer tank enters the radiator's upper oil header, flows through the radiator plates, and returns to the transformer tank through the lower oil header. As the hot oil passes through the radiator plates, heat is transferred to the surrounding air, achieving effective cooling.
3. Types of Plate Radiators
By Installation Method:
Fixed Type (PG Model): Welded directly onto the transformer tank without a flange.
Detachable Type (PC Model): Connected to the transformer tank with a flange for easy removal.
By Cooling Method:
Natural Cooling (Self-Cooling): Relies on natural air convection to dissipate heat.
Air-Cooling (Fan-Assisted): Uses fans (bottom-blown or side-blown) to enhance cooling.
Forced Oil-Air Cooling: Circulates transformer oil through pumps and enhances cooling with fans.
By Radiator Structure:
Standard Type: All radiator plates have the same spacing, such as PC3000-30/520.
Gooseneck Type: Features long and short plates with different spacings, where 2-4 short plates are typically used, such as PC2200(1800)-28(2)/520.
By Radiator Specifications:
Plate widths: 480mm and 520mm.
Center distances: 1000mm to 4000mm.
Number of radiator plates: 10 to 38 plates.
4. Function of Plate Radiators
In oil-immersed power transformers, the internal components (windings, cores, etc.) generate heat as a result of electrical losses. This heat raises the temperature of the transformer oil and the surrounding tank. Elevated temperatures can reduce the lifespan of insulation materials in the windings, making temperature control crucial. Radiators are essential for dissipating this heat. The number and size of radiators are determined by the transformer's capacity and heat loss. As transformer capacity increases, larger radiators are required to ensure sufficient heat dissipation.
5. Manufacturing and Standards
Plate radiators are used for cooling oil-immersed transformers and reactors. They are designed and manufactured in accordance with the Chinese mechanical industry standard JB/T 5347-2013 "Plate Radiators for Transformers." The radiator plates are made from high-quality cold-rolled steel coils, processed on fully automated production lines under computer control. These radiators have passed type tests conducted by authoritative national testing institutions and fully comply with the industry standard JB/T 5347-2013.
6. Advantages of Plate Radiators
Plate radiators feature a novel design, easy maintenance, low failure rate, low operating cost, and low noise. They support self-cooling, fan-assisted cooling, and forced oil-air cooling, meeting the cooling needs of oil-immersed transformers and reactors rated at 35kV, 66kV, 110kV, 220kV, and 500kV. With low maintenance and operating costs, plate radiators extend transformer service life and minimize heat-related failures. As a result, plate radiators are widely used in 220kV and 500kV self-cooling transformers in transformer factories and substations.
7. Product Marking
Each plate radiator includes a nameplate that displays:
Product model,
Serial number,
Manufacturer's name,
Applicable standard number.
8. Packaging and Transportation
Plate radiators are packaged in wooden frames or wooden frames with a base.
The packaging and storage comply with the GB191 Packaging Standard.
Technical documents provided with the product include:
Packing list,
User manual,
Product qualification certificate,
Product test report.