Alberta Boilers Safety Association (ABSA) Practice Test

In cooling systems for transformers, which method is NOT used?

1. Spraying water over coils

2. Using forced air cooling

3. Using a heat exchanger

4. Placing the core in an oil-filled tank

The correct answer is: Using a heat exchanger

In the context of cooling systems for transformers, utilizing a heat exchanger is not a common method compared to the others listed. Transformers primarily rely on methods that directly manage heat dissipation more effectively within their design and operational parameters. Spraying water over coils serves as a direct cooling method, promoting enhanced heat reduction through evaporation and conduction, which is especially useful in high-temperature scenarios. Forced air cooling is commonly employed in various transformer designs, where ambient air is directed over coils to dissipate heat. Placing the core in an oil-filled tank is another established practice, as the oil not only serves as an insulator but also plays a crucial role in absorbing heat generated within the transformer, thereby improving efficiency and safety. In contrast, heat exchangers, while effective in other applications, are not typically integrated in transformer cooling systems. Their involvement would require additional infrastructure and might not efficiently facilitate the heat transfer needed for transformers where oil or air systems are already optimized.