DuPont Launches First Oil-Free Underground Transformer

April 22, 2010
Safer, More Sustainable Solution for Homeowners, Developers, Utilities WILMINGTON, Del., April 20, 2010 — DuPont has introduced DuPontâ„¢ ReliatraNâ„¢ SIDT, the first underground residential solid insulation distribution transformer that uses patented ...
Safer, More Sustainable Solution for Homeowners, Developers, Utilities

WILMINGTON, Del., April 20, 2010 — DuPont has introduced DuPontâ„¢ ReliatraNâ„¢ SIDT, the first underground residential solid insulation distribution transformer that uses patented oil-free technology to provide a more sustainable solution for utility companies, developers and home owners. The product now is available in North America.

The new oil-free single-phase submersible transformer is about 50 percent smaller than conventional oil-filled versions. The smaller size and oil-free construction help to reduce the risk of contamination. The ReliatraNâ„¢ SIDT also alleviates concerns about exposure to mineral oil. In contrast, oil-filled units carry a risk of leaks.

“We are focused on innovations that provide sustainable solutions for our customers,” said William F. Weber, vice president for North America – DuPont Protection Technologies. “The critical materials used in oil-filled transformers have not changed substantially since these transformers were introduced in the late 19th century. Industry executives have told us they are looking to material science and companies like DuPont to bring change to the industry, and we want to be a materials leader in this market.”

The ReliatraNâ„¢ SIDT offers important safety advantages. The transformer's construction is fire-resistant and self-extinguishing. Inside, DuPontâ„¢ Nomex® brand paper is the most critical insulating component. It does not support combustion in air; provides high levels of electrical, chemical and mechanical integrity; and is widely recognized for extending transformer life.

Environmental concerns due to the risk of oil leakage have kept many utilities from offering an underground choice to residential developers, even though industry research shows that homeowners prefer transformers be out of sight. ReliatraNâ„¢ SIDT addresses concerns of utility companies while providing a low-maintenance, reliable single-phase submersible transformer.

DuPont – one of the first companies to publicly establish environmental goals 20 years ago – has broadened its sustainability commitments beyond internal footprint reduction to include market-driven targets for both revenue and research and development investment. The corporate goals are tied directly to business growth, specifically to the development of safer and environmentally improved new products for key global markets.

DuPont is a science-based products and services company. Founded in 1802, DuPont puts science to work by creating sustainable solutions essential to a better, safer, healthier life for people everywhere. Operating in more than 70 countries, DuPont offers a wide range of innovative products and services for markets including agriculture and food; building and construction; communications; and transportation.

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About the Author

Amy Fischbach | Field Editor

Amy Fischbach is the field editor for the Electric Utility Operations section of Transmission & Distribution World. She worked for Prism Business Media (now Penton) for eight years, most recently as the managing editor of Club Industry's Fitness Business Pro magazine. She is now working as a freelance writer and editor for B2B magazines. Amy earned her bachelor's and master's degrees in journalism from Kansas State University in Manhattan, Kansas. She serves as the national vice president of the American Society of Business Publication Editors. She can be reached at [email protected].

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