Dry-type transformers are core power equipment in the power system, mainly used for alternating voltage/current conversion via electromagnetic induction. They are indispensable for energy transmission, system connection, and equipment voltage adaptation, with growing market demand driven by new energy development. Below is a systematic breakdown of their core attributes, roles, and industry trends (correcting key misconceptions).
1. Basic Definition & Core Structure
(1) Core Definition
A dry-type transformer is an electrical device that realizes energy exchange between two or more windings at the same frequency through electromagnetic induction. It converts high/low voltage to meet transmission or equipment usage needs, without relying on insulating oil (distinguishing it from oil-immersed transformers).
(2) Key Structural Components
- Magnetic Circuit: Composed of iron core columns (winding carriers) and iron yokes (closing the magnetic circuit), forming a closed low-reluctance magnetic path.
- Circuit (Windings): Made of insulated copper or aluminum wires, divided into primary (input) and secondary (output) windings—determine the voltage transformation ratio via turn count differences.
- Cooling Medium: Relies on air (natural/forced air cooling), not insulating oil. The original mention of “most transformers are oil-immersed” refers to a different category; dry-type transformers (regardless of capacity) use air cooling to avoid oil-related risks.
2. Core Classification & Functional Roles
Dry-type transformers are mainly classified into two types based on voltage transformation direction, each serving critical roles in the power chain:
(1) Step-Down Transformers (Most Common)
- Application Scenario: Adapt high-voltage grid power to user equipment needs.
- Core Function: Convert high voltage (e.g., 10kV/35kV from the power system) into low rated voltage (e.g., 0.4kV) that meets the requirements of terminal electrical equipment (residential appliances, industrial machinery).
(2) Step-Up Transformers
- Application Scenario: Power plant energy transmission.
- Core Function: Address the limitation of power plants’ low output voltage (due to insulation constraints) by boosting it to high/ultra-high voltage (e.g., 110kV/220kV). This reduces energy loss during long-distance transmission (lower current = less I²R loss).
3. Indispensable Roles in the Power System
Dry-type transformers are the “bridge” of the power system, supporting three core links:
- Voltage Adaptation: Match the high voltage of the power system with the low voltage required by terminal equipment, ensuring safe and stable operation of electrical devices.
- System Connection: The power network consists of a unified-voltage main system and multiple different-voltage sub-systems. Transformers of various specifications connect these systems, realizing seamless energy flow.
- Efficient Transmission: Step-up transformers enable high-voltage transmission, minimizing line loss—critical for long-distance energy delivery from power plants to end users.
4. Market Development Trends
The demand for dry-type transformers is closely tied to power grid investment, with new energy development becoming the key growth driver:
- Demand Boost from New Energy: The rapid expansion of new energy power generation (solar, wind) has created broader application scenarios (e.g., new energy station grid connection, energy storage systems), driving market growth.
- Product Structure Optimization: Manufacturers are focusing on high-efficiency, low-noise, and compact dry-type transformers to meet the requirements of green power grids.
- Technological Innovation: R&D in core materials (amorphous alloy, vegetable oil insulation) and intelligent functions (online monitoring, remote control) has become a key competitive focus, promoting industry upgrading.















































