An update on silicone transformer fluid: specification, manufacturing, maintenance and end of life options

Silicone transformer fluid has been used in liquid transformers for over 25 years now. There are well over 100,000 silicone fluid filled transformers in operation around the world in network, secondary unit substation, medium power, three phase pad mount distribution and specialty applications. This paper will review recent developments related to the use of the fluid including application testing, manufacturing issues, maintenance procedures, and end of life options. Emphasis is on recent progress within the IEEE Transformers Committee on Dissolved Gas Analysis for silicone filled transformers, a review of environmental characteristics of silicone fluids, and practices of reuse and recycling the fluid.