Is it energy-efficient for a transformer to operate in this way?
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Transformers: 2 units (transformer model: SCB10-1250/10), 0.4KV voltage level. Original operating mode for the two transformers: they operated simultaneously (with the 0.4KV bus bar disconnected/operating in a segmented manner – the power supply department installed interlocks to prevent the low-voltage bus bar from being connected when both transformers were in use; it was designed according to 10KV dual-power supply protection principles). Current operating mode for the two transformers: one unit is in operation while the other is in hot standby mode (with the 0.4KV bus bar connected). Questions: 1. Is this current operating mode energy-efficient? 2. How many kilowatt-hours can be saved per day approximately? 3. Which of the two operation modes is more reasonable (from the perspectives of safety and reliability, without considering energy savings)?
The operating mode to be adopted depends on the nature of the load. For critical loads, so-called cost savings on electricity or investment expenses should be disregarded in favor of ensuring power supply reliability. Don’t focus on trivial matters and lose the big picture.
My description might not be very clear. In fact, currently both transformers are in operation, and in that case the low-voltage supply has to be divided into separate sections; when only one transformer is in use, the low-voltage buses are connected together. In terms of reliability, there isn’t much difference between these two approaches. The current load isn’t high, with the load rate when only one transformer is in use not exceeding 50%.
This issue is mainly related to the pricing contract you have with the power grid; if a basic charge for the transformer is to be applied (on a monthly basis), then when the load is low, you can apply for a reduction in capacity, which can save you over 30,000 yuan per month. Furthermore, as mentioned above, high-voltage design is primarily based on the characteristics of the electricity used in production; therefore, energy efficiency has little to do with the high-voltage power supply method! (High-pressure systems are generally handled by design institutes commissioned by the district, so there can be no reliability issues.)
I agree with what was said above: if your two transformers are not equipped with automatic switching. When the standby transformer is shut down, it is actually in a hot standby state as well. However, it is sufficient to rotate the use of the two transformers on a regular basis.