Advancing Cirularity in Transformers: Update on recent Solutions and Impacts

Rapid electrification, tighter climate targets and emerging regulations on waste and critical raw materials are increasing both the installed base and the volumes of transformers approaching end-of-life. This paper provides three key approaches on how to advance circularity from the perspective of an original equipment manufacturer. By taking circularity into consideration already during the transformer design phase, total material use can be optimized, and the recycled content can be maximized. For dry-type transformers, epoxy-based composite materials pose specific recycling challenges, driving innovation in reversible chemistries.

Through refurbishment and services aimed at life extension, the need for manufacturing of new units can be deferred and waste reduced. Partnerships and collaboration throughout the value chain are essential to accomplish high-quality recycling, demonstrated through real-world case studies: first, the usage of regenerated and recycled oil in distribution transformers, and second the recovery and reuse of copper and steel from a decommissioned unit.