This review is focused on the research of dielectric fluids, especially commonly used power transformer oils enhanced by nanoparticles, i.e., nanofluids. There are differences between various combinations of base fluids and nanoparticles prepared in different ways. The main goal of this review was to present recent research in this field sorted by the used nanoparticles. Nanofluids based on mineral oils, natural, or synthetic esters were investigated in terms of the nature of nanoparticles, particularly Al2O3, TiO2, Fe2O3, Fe3O4, graphene, fullerene, and others. The combinations of environmentally friendly oils and nanoparticles were presented. Finally, the article focused on the description of current dielectric fluids usable in power transformers and the possibilities of improving new and existing fluids with nanoparticles, especially their physical, dielectric, and chemical properties, but with regard to environmental aspects.
According to the latest research, nanofluids as a possible future substitution for high-voltage equipment insulation have the potential to enhance the heat transfer and insulation properties of their base fluids. Dielectric properties are represented by breakdown strength (AC, DC, lightning) and dielectric performance as a set of quantities including dissipation factor, permittivity, and volume resistivity. In this study, natural and synthetic esters were mixed with C60 nanoparticles. Samples were examined for dissipation factor, relative permittivity, and volume resistivity at temperatures between 25 °C and 140 °C to monitor changes in dielectric performance with rising temperature, in accordance with IEC 60247. In addition, the samples were tested for AC breakdown voltage (using mushroom-like electrodes with a gap distance of 1 mm) and evaluated using the Weibull distribution statistical method. These measurements allowed complex evaluation of the examined mixtures and the determination of optimal concentration for each ester-based nanofluid.
scite is a Brooklyn-based organization that helps researchers better discover and understand research articles through Smart Citations–citations that display the context of the citation and describe whether the article provides supporting or contrasting evidence. scite is used by students and researchers from around the world and is funded in part by the National Science Foundation and the National Institute on Drug Abuse of the National Institutes of Health.