35kV Oil-Immersed Power Transformers for Mining: Reliable Solutions by Huawan

In mining power systems, main power transformers play a critical role in ensuring continuous production and operational safety. Mining enterprises are characterized by heavy loads, frequent load fluctuations, and harsh operating environments, which place stringent demands on transformer reliability, overload capability, cooling performance, and long-term stability.


1. Project Overview

This project involves the construction of a 35kV main substation and associated power supply system for an iron mining operation (Liusi Iron Mine), designed to provide reliable electricity for mining production processes such as ore extraction, crushing, conveying, and auxiliary facilities.

Mining operations are characterized by highly concentrated loads, frequent load fluctuations, and long continuous operating cycles. The substation is required to operate continuously under demanding conditions while maintaining strong overload capability and stable voltage regulation.


2. Technical Specifications

Specification

Details

Model

SZ20-25000/35

Capacity

25,000 kVA × 2 (Dual Units)

Voltage Ratio

35 ± 3 × 2.5% / 10.5 kV

Tap Changer

On-Load Tap Changer

Cooling Method

ONAN / ONAF

Vector Group

YNd11

Short-Circuit Impedance

10%

图片1.png

Figure 1. Outline of 35kV SZ20-25MVA/35-NX2 Oil Transformer


3. Key Project Characteristics

  • Complex Load Profile: Handles high inrush currents from combination of large motors, crushers, and conveyor systems.

  • High Continuity: Mining production is highly sensitive to interruptions; dual-transformer parallel configuration enhances redundancy.

  • Harsh Environments: Engineered for dusty conditions, extreme temperature variations, and long-term heavy-load operation.


4. Project Implementation & Standards

The substation was successfully energized and commissioned in April 2025 (with on-site positioning in December 2024), and the transformers have met all design and operational requirements.


Figure 2. Main Transformer Positioning on Site

International Compliance:

Huawan transformers comply with IEC 60076 standards (Power Transformers) and can be customized to meet ANSI / IEEE C57 standards for export-oriented projects.


5. Factory Acceptance Test (FAT)

Prior to delivery, the SZ20-25000/35 oil-immersed power transformers underwent comprehensive Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) in accordance with IEC 60076 and relevant international standards, ensuring reliable performance under demanding mining operating conditions.

The FAT scope included, but was not limited to:

  • Winding DC resistance measurement

  • Voltage ratio and phase displacement verification

  • No-load loss and no-load current test

  • Load loss and short-circuit impedance test

  • Applied AC withstand voltage test

  • Induced voltage withstand test

  • Insulating oil dielectric strength and oil quality tests

  • On-load tap changer (OLTC) operational and switching tests

  • These tests verified the transformer’s electrical performance, insulation integrity, thermal behavior, and voltage regulation reliability, ensuring readiness for safe and long-term operation in the mining substation.


6. Why Choose Oil-Immersed Transformers for Mining?

High Thermal Capacity: Better suited for heavy and fluctuating loads like crushing and hoisting. Superior Cooling: The combination of natural and forced air cooling (ONAN/ONAF) maintains safe temperatures.

Real-time Voltage Control: High-voltage OLTC adjusts voltage without power interruption, protecting downstream equipment.

Huawan Expertise in Mining Power Transformers

  • In-depth understanding of mining power demand characteristics

  • Customized 35kV / 110kV / 220kV oil-immersed transformer solutions

  • Compliance with IEC, GB, and utility standards

  • Focus on lifecycle efficiency and long-term reliability

  • Extensive experience in mining, metallurgy, cement, and heavy industry projects


7. FAQ

Q: Why use oil-immersed transformers in mining?
A: They provide higher thermal capacity, stronger overload capability, and better cooling for continuous mining operations.


Q: What is the advantage of an OLTC?
A: It allows voltage regulation without interrupting power, ensuring stable voltage to sensitive mining equipment.


Q: Can Huawan customize for international projects?

A: Yes, we provide flexible designs compliant with IEC, GB, and ANSI/IEEE standards worldwide.



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Company: Room 914-915, Block A, No. 188 Qianshan South Road, Shushan District, Hefei, China

Factory: South of Chunhua Road and West of Zhihe Road, Xuancheng Economic andTechnological Development Zone, Anhui, China