Dry-type transformers are favoured for use in data centers for several reasons:
Improved Safety: Dry-type transformers do not use oil for cooling or insulation, making them safer for use in sensitive environments, such as data centers. This greatly reduces the risk of fire, environmental contamination and exposure to hazardous emissions.
Increased Reliability: Dry-type transformers are designed to be more reliable compared to oil-immersed transformers, as the characteristics of dry-type transformers do not change over time as is the case with oil. Tap changing, whether off circuit or on, is also simpler and more reliable than oil type.
Lower Maintenance Costs: Dry-type transformers require less maintenance compared to oil-immersed transformers, as they do not require regular oil sampling and testing. Time taken for maintenance is greatly reduced as there is less required. Simple testing of protection relays and temperature probes and in some cases blowing of excessive dust is all that is required.
Energy Efficiency: Dry-type transformers are able to be designed to the highest efficiency levels possible and the fact that only air is used as an insulation and cooling medium means they are more efficient than oil type transformers when used in an AF application.
Environmentally Friendly: Dry-type transformers are environmentally friendly, as they do not use oil and do not emit hazardous substances.
These advantages make dry-type transformers a preferred choice for data centers, where reliability, safety, and energy efficiency are critical considerations.