Transporting Transformers
In this article we’re looking at Transformer Spill Kit Bags and why they’re essential for handling, transporting or disposing of transformers.
What is a Transformer?
A transformer is an electrical component commonly found in radios, TVs and air conditioners. The transformers referred to in this article are much larger, and located in places such as power stations, on powerlines and in mining facilities. So what does a transformer actually do? Basically, a transformer functions by transferring electrical energy from one circuit to another. Heavy duty transformers use mineral oil and other fluids to help insulate them and regulate temperature, and therein lies the problem…
Transformer Life Cycle & Disposal
Whilst transformers can remain active and operational for long periods of time, they do fail and become obsolete. Failure could be the result of age, wear and tear, extreme weather or a natural disaster. If a leaking transformer cannot be repaired, it must be replaced as soon as possible. Transformer fluid spill containment is a crucial part of environmental safety and compliance.
A Spill Kit for Transformers
Transformer Bag Spill Kits are an easy way to contain, transport and store used pad and pole-mounted transformers. These kits are popular with telecommunications and utility providers and are made up of two key components:
- A heavy duty polyethylene bag, reinforced by fibreglass cord. This construction method results in a bag with superior strength, puncture and tear resistance. The material is also UV stabilised to prevent sun degradation. After containing the transformer, secondary spill absorption becomes the next priority.
- Absorbent pads are included with every transformer spill kit bag to soak up internal fluid spills.
Transformer Bag Spill Kit 1010 x 2030mmTransformer Bag Spill Kits from Stratex are flexible and lightweight, allowing for easy handling and quick installation. Multiple layers and cord reinforcement resist punctures and tears. UV stabilisation protects the material from degradation during extended exposure to sunlight. Cold-crack resistance eliminates failures in extremely cold temperatures. Meltblown polypropylene pads are included in each kit to absorb any leaked dielectric fluid.
- Multiple layer construction with cord reinforcement to
resist punctures and tears - UV stabilisation protects the material from
degradation during extended exposure to sunlight - Cold-crack resistance eliminates failures in extremely
cold temperatures - Size: 1010 x 2030 mm
- Multiple layer construction with cord reinforcement to
Transformer Bag Spill Kit 2130 x 2280 mmTransformer Bag Spill Kits from Stratex are flexible and lightweight, allowing for easy handling and quick installation. Multiple layers and cord reinforcement resist punctures and tears. UV stabilisation protects the material from degradation during extended exposure to sunlight. Cold-crack resistance eliminates failures in extremely cold temperatures. Meltblown polypropylene pads are included in each kit to absorb any leaked dielectric fluid.
- Multiple layer construction with cord reinforcement to resist punctures and tears
- UV stabilisation protects the material from degradation during extended exposure to sunlight
- Cold-crack resistance eliminates failures in extremely cold temperatures
- Size: 2130 x 2280 mm
Transformer Bag Spill Kit 3500 x 3500mmTransformer Bag Spill Kits from Stratex are flexible and lightweight, allowing for easy handling and quick installation. Multiple layers and cord reinforcement resist punctures and tears. UV stabilisation protects the material from degradation during extended exposure to sunlight. Cold-crack resistance eliminates failures in extremely cold temperatures. Meltblown polypropylene pads are included in each kit to absorb any leaked dielectric fluid.
- Multiple layer construction with cord reinforcement to resist punctures and tears
- UV stabilisation protects the material from degradation during extended exposure to sunlight
- Cold-crack resistance eliminates failures in extremely cold temperatures
- Size: 3500 x 3500mm
Transformer Bag Spill Kit 5670 x 5670 mmTransformer Bag Spill Kits from Stratex are flexible and lightweight, allowing for easy handling and quick installation. Multiple layers and cord reinforcement resist punctures and tears. UV stabilisation protects the material from degradation during extended exposure to sunlight. Cold-crack resistance eliminates failures in extremely cold temperatures. Meltblown polypropylene pads are included in each kit to absorb any leaked dielectric fluid.
- Multiple layer construction with cord reinforcement to resist punctures and tears
- UV stabilisation protects the material from degradation during extended exposure to sunlight
- Cold-crack resistance eliminates failures in extremely cold temperatures
- Size: 5670 x 5670mm
How to Use a Transformer Spill Kit
- Attach lifting straps securely to the leaking transformer and use a crane or forklift to lift into the correct size transformer bag.
- Ensure the transformer is sitting on the absorbent mat in the base of the bag
- Without removing the lifting straps, wrap the top of the bag tightly around the straps to avoid the bag falling down, and lift into position.
- Once the bag is in position for storage or transportation, the lifting straps can be removed and the bag securely fastened at the mouth with a cable tie to avoid leakage or water entering.
Transformer spill kit bags are available in a variety of sizes, from 1 to 5.5 metres across. Stratex also stocks a wide range of Spill Kits and absorbent products. For more information about these and other environmental compliance solutions, contact us on 1300 991 180 or email info@stx.ad-stg.com.