Choosing to refurbish a transformer represents a fundamental engineering strategy to restore and enhance operational parameters, ensuring greater reliability, energy efficiency, and extension of the asset’s service life. This approach is particularly relevant in transmission and distribution systems operating continuously, where high availability, thermal stability, and dielectric performance are critical requirements for safety and continuity of power supply. 

The technological revitalization of equipment, carried out by first class manufacturers, allows investment reductions of up to 30% compared to the acquisition of new transformers. In addition, shorter lead times are also a competitive advantage to be considered. The refurbishment preserves operational and performance characteristics and is a sustainable process, as it extends the equipment’s lifecycle and reduces the need for new raw materials and components. 

At WEG, the execution of large transformer refurbishments is made possible by a specialized in-house engineering team, capable of performing complex and comprehensive studies, redesigns, and adaptations according to customer demands. At WEG, this know-how is materialized through the capability to revitalize transformers from any manufacturer, including those that have been in operation for decades. 

This was the case of a single-phase transformer rated at 10/13.33 MVA – 138/34.5/13.8 kV, originally manufactured in 1977, which underwent a complete redesign led by WEG’s technical team. The refurbishment scope was carried out through a vertically integrated manufacturing process, including the production of new windings, active part drying, installation of new accessories with updated technology, tank blasting and painting, and the execution of all tests in accordance with applicable standards. 

The equipment is operating in the power distribution network of the state of Espírito Santo, reducing voltage levels to safe and adequate values before delivery to the end customer. With this project, WEG reinforces its ability to extend the service life of essential components in power substations, delivering reliable and customized solutions for customers of all sizes in Brazil and worldwide.