Amorphous Transformer (AMDT) for Swiss Electricity Distributor TGB
Sissach, Switzerland, January 2021 – In the town of Bischofszell, in the Swiss canton of Thurgau, a new exclusive residential complex is being built in the Schweizerholzstrasse area. The complex consists of four apartment buildings with state-of-the-art finishes, increased comfort facilities and an electric charging station in the underground car park. In order to ensure reliable power supply for the complex, the complete transformer network was reconstructed in the simulation program “Neplan” and the additional load was simulated taking into account the load history. The analysis identified two performance weak points in the network, including the aging 250kVA transformer. R&S therefore supplied a 400kVA amorphous transformer with very low no-load losses, which is ideal for this specific load profile.
The local grid operator, Technische Gemeindebetriebe Bischofszell, or TGB for short, demanded high standards of quality and energy efficiency for the new transformer. After intensive discussions and comparisons, TGB decided on an amorphous transformer from the Swiss manufacturer R&S Rauscher & Stoecklin. “The consideration of the environmental responsibility of the population is an important aspect for us and one of the reasons why we decided on an amorphous transformer. The lower base loss performances in copper as well as iron were decisive here,” explains Michael Böckli, Head of Electricity Supply at TGB.
R&S Rauscher & Stoecklin took up the challenge and for the first time developed and produced an amorphous transformer with a three-leg Evans core and a rated power of 400kVA. In the process, the no-load energy loss (PCU) of 200W, which was guaranteed when the order was placed, was significantly undercut. “It makes us proud as a company to be able to make a further contribution to reducing transmission losses in the Swiss power grid, as desired by the Swiss electorate in the Energy Strategy 2050,” says Pietro Nizzola, Managing Director at R&S Rauscher & Stoecklin.
Some specifications of the projects:
- Oil-filled transformer, free-breathing
- 400kVA nominal power
- Very low no-load losses due to amorphous design
- Compact dimensions comparable to standard transformers
- Covering the energy demand for the additional new residential development
On December 9th, 2020, the transformer was successfully installed by Technische Gemeindebetriebe Bischofszell. “The cooperation with R&S went very well. The open time window due to the transitional installation of an “old” ready for recycling more powerful 630kVA transformer helped both sides a lot,” says Michael Böckli.
About TGB
Technische Gemeindebetriebe Bischofszell, or TGB for short, ensures the safe distribution of electricity in the Bischofszell region. Founded in 1933, the innovative service company is an important infrastructure anchor for the region.
About R&S Rauscher & Stoecklin
R&S Rauscher & Stoecklin is part of the Swiss-based R&S Group, a leading provider of electrical infrastructure products in key markets. The company, founded in 1919, is a well-established and experienced manufacturer of transformers, switchgear, and other electrical equipment.
