An Innovative Low-Carbon Solution for Hydropower Plant Transformers: 110kV 3D Wound Core Power Transformer

The Implementation Plan for Large-Scale Equipment Renewal in Key Energy Sectors, jointly issued by the General Office of the National Development and Reform Commission and the Comprehensive Department of the National Energy Administration, identifies hydropower stations as one of seven key renovation areas. It advocates "prudently advancing the renewal and retrofitting of hydropower equipment." Addressing transformer upgrades for hydropower plants, HAIHONG Electric Co., Ltd. introduces the 110kV 3D Wound Core Power Transformer, providing a green, safe, and highly reliable equipment renewal solution. This technology has received national recognition and is listed in China's Catalog of Energy-Saving Technologies and Practices Proposed for International 'Top Ten' Contests under industrial energy-saving technologies.

Aging Transformers: Hidden Safety Risks
Transformers in hydropower plants operate in far more complex environments than standard industrial units: high humidity; prolonged no-load periods and significant load fluctuations due to wet/dry seasonal variations; and aging insulation, cooling systems, and protective devices over time. These "hidden risks" constantly threaten safe operation. Events like lightning strikes or heavy rainfall can trigger severe failures.

Increased Capacity without Occupying More Space
The 110kV 3D Wound Core Power Transformer features a compact design with adaptable radiator layouts to fit installation spaces, fully resolving spatial constraints. In one case, a 110kV 40,000kVA laminated-core transformer was directly replaced/upgraded within the same footprint with a 110kV 63,000kVA 3D Wound Core transformer.

From Reactive Repair to Proactive Protection
The 110kV 3D Wound Core Power Transformer significantly enhances safety:

1.    Reinforced Sealing: Optimized sealing structure and processes at critical points block moisture and dust, improving corrosion resistance and preventing insulation oil oxidation.

2.    Enhanced Short-Circuit Withstand Capability: The 3D Wound Core structure offers superior mechanical stability, adapting to hydropower load swings and handling current surges from unit start/stops or grid peak shaving.

3.    Smart Monitoring for Early Warning: Integration with HAIHONG Electric's Intelligent Energy-Saving Monitoring System enables real-time operation tracking, fault prediction, and prevention of major electrical incidents.

Globally Leading Energy Efficiency
The world's first 110kV amorphous alloy 3D Wound Core Power Transformer¹ reduces no-load loss by over 60% and load loss by over 5% compared to Class 1 efficiency standards. A single 20,000kVA unit saves approximately 120,000 kWh annually, setting a global benchmark in energy efficiency. (Above data for reference only)

HAIHONG Electric's 3D Wound Core Transformer provides critical equipment support for building a new power system dominated by renewable energy, offering a practical "HAIHONG Solution" for large-scale transformer renewal. Amidst the wave of hydropower equipment upgrades, the 110kV 3D Wound Core Power Transformer will play a vital role in advancing China's clean energy sector towards greater efficiency and lower carbon emissions.

Reference Projects

Transformer Replacement Project at Foshan 110kV Dunhou Substation

SZH25-RL-20000/110-NX1

Technical Upgrade Project at Huizhou Longmen County Tiantangshan Hydropower Station (2024)

 Technical Upgrade Project at Huizhou Longmen County Tiantangshan Hydropower Station (2023)

Baishiyao Hydropower Plant Project in Yinghong Town, Yingde City, Guangdong Province

¹Developed under the leadership of Guangdong Power Grid Co., Ltd., with HAIHONG Electric as the principal developer, in collaboration with Huazhong University of Science and Technology, North China Electric Power University, and AEM Sci-Tech Co., Ltd.

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