Dry Type or Oil-Filled: Which Transformer Best Suits Your Project?
Choosing the right transformer is an in-depth process. Before electrical contractors can consider voltages, enclosures and efficiency standards, they must decide whether a dry type or oil-filled transformer unit best suits their application. Even then, they must decide between dry type transformer manufacturers to balance cost and quality. How Do Dry Type and Oil-Filled Transformers Compare? Dry type transformers require less maintenance than their fluid-filled counterparts. They also pose minimal fire and environmental risks, making them ideal for indoor applications. They can be kept close to the systems they power, reducing the likelihood of voltage drops. Oil-filled transformers are ideal for outdoor, utility-scale or long-duty-cycle applications because they handle higher loads more effectively. However, they require environmental and fire protection measures, including periodic oil testing. Transformer Type Dry Type Oil-Filled Cooling Mechanism Air circulation Mineral oil or ester fluids Insulation Solid fiber, resin or sheets Dielectric oil Fire Risk Minimal High — requires precautions Environmental Risk Minimal High due to oil spill risk Noise Level 65 to 76 dB due to fans 55 to 65 dB due to pumps Best For Indoor applications Utility-scale applications How to Choose the Right Transformer for Your Project Every system is unique, so there is no one-size-fits-all solution. However, contractors can use this decision-making framework to choose the right transformer for their project. The first step is to analyse application requirements — efficiency, voltage, capacity and operating environment. Next, they must consider relevant standards. Those in North America may follow American National Standards Institute (ANSI) guidelines. The International Electrotechnical Commission’s (IEC) regulations are pertinent to European businesses. Going beyond the basics of compliance is key, as rules may change within the new device’s expected service life. Deciding between new and remanufactured solutions has long-term implications. Alternatively, some dry type transformer manufacturers can retrofit stock units to fit existing setups, allowing customers to avoid the wait associated with long-lead-time items. The last step in the decision-making framework is to evaluate warranty length and service life cycle. Post-sales support is vital for minimising downtime, shortening intervention time lines and extending the system’s longevity. Key Regional Considerations for Transformer Selection In the United States, most homes use a 120/240 V, 60 Hz system. Transformers are held to standards set by the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA), ANSI, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and Underwriters Laboratories. In colder climates, fluid-filled transformers may need heaters and low-pour-point fluids to maintain the proper viscosity. For locations prone to warmer weather, additional cooling equipment may be necessary. Damage increases exponentially the farther units go beyond their temperature and insulation limits. Many European homes use a 230/400 V, 50 Hz system — about twice that of North America. The IEC 60076 standard and Tier 2 Ecodesign Regulations set important safety, environmental and efficiency criteria. Although Europe’s climate is temperate, many areas experience significant rainfall or low ambient temperatures. Strict moisture control is necessary to prevent dielectric failure or corrosion. Oil monitoring, sealed tanks and anti-condensation heaters are practical solutions. Choosing Between Dry Type Transformer Manufacturers Choosing the right transformer starts with selecting an appropriate supplier. Global original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) are large, multinational companies with broad portfolios. They produce well-known brands with a reputation for quality and reliability. Since regional specialists serve specific areas, they have a deep understanding of local regulations, climate conditions and market needs. They are often more flexible than OEMs in providing tailored solutions and fast turnaround times because they do not have to deal with the hassle of international shipping. Application-focused dry type transformer manufacturers deliver tailored solutions to specific industries. As such, they have an in-depth understanding of features, challenges and compliance requirements needed. Their technical support and focused research and development efforts are ideal for those seeking a transformer optimised for a specific use case. Supplier Type Global OEM Regional specialists Application specific Key Benefit Well known with a positive reputation Typically more flexible than OEMs Offers specialised products or services Service Area Multinational service area Specific geographic area Certain industries or applications Expertise Large, utility-scale projects Tailored solutions with fast turnarounds Niche applications and custom jobs Knowledge Base Grasps international standards Deep understanding of local market needs In-depth knowledge of specific use cases Best for Global operations requiring support across countries Companies looking to balance cost and quality Those seeking a high degree of support or specialisation The Top 3 Dry Type Transformer Manufacturers Whether contractors are proactively replacing ageing units or sourcing an emergency replacement unit to minimise downtime, they should only trust top-rated suppliers. Superior build quality translates to enhanced performance, efficiency and longevity. Founded in 1912, ELSCO Transformers has served commercial customers across North America for over a century by engineering, building, repairing and selling transformers. It is one of the few that designs and manufactures high-quality copper-wound dry type units. It has had zero product failures since it began producing its own in 1988. Its medium voltage transformers have a 30-year service life expectancy. As evidence of the transformer’s superior build quality, ELSCO offers a five-year warranty on all new indoor systems, which is five times longer than the industry standard. It even has emergency replacement services. Orders can leave the facility within 24 to 48 hours, depending on what modifications need to be made. As a leading global technology company, Schneider Electric has an in-depth understanding of electrification and digitalisation. Founded in 1836, it has grown into a multinational corporation with over 1 million partners in 100 countries. It has local distributors, integrators and resellers located worldwide. It supplies low and medium-voltage transformers designed to meet or exceed specific DOE standards. Its non-ventilated general-purpose model is ideal for use in dust-prone environments. There are dry type units designed for either indoor or outdoor use. Since its founding in 1921, KONČAR has developed over a century of experience in power engineering. Over 33% of the company’s technicians, engineers and technologists hold advanced degrees. As a regional leader, it designs and manufactures transformers to the highest quality standards. It
How can installers prepare for the spring boom in solar?
In this article, Lee Sutton, co-founder and chief innovation officer of myenergi, explores how electrical installers can make the most of increasing demand for solar panels, as we leave the cold winter months behind us and start the transition to spring. With winter fast becoming a distant memory, householders are already looking towards the summer months and the opportunity to invest in their properties – especially when it comes to energy efficiency measures. As a result, over the coming months, demand for solar panels is expected to surge, inevitably greater offering commercial opportunities for installers. But how can installers make the most out of the upcoming surge in solar installation requests and ensure they’re fully prepared for spring? Stay ahead of the tech curve In today’s rapidly evolving marketplace, staying abreast of current technology trends is an integral part of maintaining competitive advantage. Innovating, challenging, learning from best practice and developing your business across a number of fast growth areas can help you to stay ahead of the game. First and foremost is understanding the direction of change when it comes to home energy generation. Solar PV offers a simple way for homeowners to take control of their energy spend and live more sustainably. While it’s often suggested that purchasing and installing renewables is expensive and out of reach for the average energy user, this isn’t necessarily the case, especially with the cost of utilities continually on the rise. According to consumer champion Which?, a typical 3.5kW solar PV array can be purchased and installed for around £5,500, generating enough power for a family of four. With Ofgem suggesting that the average annual household energy bill now sits at around £1,738 per year, the payback period of renewables is far shorter than many may think. But while installing solar might then seem like the obvious choice, it’s important to understand its limitations in order to offer the best advice for your customers. Free, unlimited energy is certainly an attractive draw, but renewable generation is famously unpredictable. Additionally, many homeowners will find themselves out of the house during periods of high generation and using the most of their energy during the darker hours. As such, it’s not unusual to see users exporting surplus energy to the grid during off-peak times and buying it back (at a far more expensive rate) when they actually need it most. In the past, this has created a barrier to investment for many homeowners. However, owing to the latest developments in battery technology and new innovations in self-consumption solutions, the landscape is changing at breakneck speed. Continual development and training The accessibility and increasing availability of more advanced green technology means higher demand and, inevitably, more inbound enquires for electrical installers. Alongside the uptick in direct orders, installers will also benefit from a greater ability to up-sell the new products rapidly coming to market. For installers to make the most of the latest developments, the main priority should be training. Effectively installing products like power diverters and home batteries requires specialist knowledge, so installers should prepare for a boom in solar-supporting technology installations by seeking the right guidance and training. Additionally, installers can benefit from manufacturer-led training to get the latest guidance, and in some cases receive the best deals. Staying acquainted with the latest, and most advanced solutions through ongoing learning and development should be the number one priority for installers in a highly competitive marketplace. By staying abreast of current tech trends, new innovations and product guidance, installers can make the most out of the anticipated solar boom. For more information about myenergi, or its eco-smart ecosystem of home energy technologies, visit www.myenergi.com.
Forum Lighting Solutions launches first smart home product
Forum Lighting Solutions, one of the UK’s largest suppliers of lighting and smart controls, is proud to announce the launch of its new smart home product: ikonects. Ikonects is a smart light switch with allows any home to be quickly and easily turned into a smart home. It has been designed to be retrofitted into any homes and is extremely simple to wire due to a removable connector, saving electricians time. An electrical screwdriver can convert a whole property into a smart home in no time whatsoever. How does it work? Ikonects is the ultimate way for homeowners to achieve a smart home lifestyle with their lighting – without needing a rewire or any channelling into walls. It couldn’t be easier – you simply replace your existing light switch with an ikonects one – you only need one central control unit for the house, as this acts as the brains of the system. It can be installed in simple steps: – Unique features The ikonects switch can be customised. There is an internal back light which can be changed through the app to match your décor. This can be programmed one colour when the switch is off and another colour when the switch is on. The intensity of the colours can also be personalised. The sensitivity of the switch can also be altered to suit. An added benefit is that it can be locked to prevent children messing with it or to make it more secure. There is also a proximity sensor option, and timers can be set up through the app. An advantage of ikonects is if your Wi-Fi goes down, the system will still operate. Whilst many other systems constantly talk to each other, and use up bandwidth, ikonects does not do this. It only talks to the central unit, when it is operating, so it will not take up any extra bandwidth. The range currently consists of white glass in one and two gang and black glass in one and two gang. More colours and designs are in creation. Steve Kaye, Marketing and Sales Manager at Forum said; “Ikonects is designed to transform how people interact with lighting in their homes. We have made it as easy as possible for electricians to install so that homeowners can enjoy the smart homes experience without the hassle and cost of rewiring. Ikonects can literally switch any home into a smart home.” Ikonects is an innovative, advanced and comprehensive smart home system designed for quick and effortless installation. For further information speak to a Forum specialist on 0161 359 4949 or email info@forumlightingsolutions.com Check out these videos for installers to watch – showing how simple ikonects is to install:-
Kelly Becker, President UK and Ireland, Belgium and Netherlands, at Schneider Electric:
“The UK’s clean energy ambitions rely on urgent investment in manufacturing supply chains and the workforce, which requires a diverse, forward-thinking pool of talent to develop and implement effective solutions. Apprenticeships in the STEM sector are crucial to this effort, providing hands-on experience and bridging the gap between classroom learning and real-world application to make a real impact. “At Schneider Electric, we have seen the transformative impact of apprenticeships. Some of the most talented individuals I’ve worked with have risen through our apprenticeship programme. For businesses, this is a game-changer – apprentices become skilled, loyal team members who are aligned with company goals, driving long-term growth and success. At Schneider Electric, we have clear workforce plans in place for apprentices to become qualified within five years, enabling effective workforce planning. “For our 2025 intake, we are seeking more than 50 apprentices across the UK and Ireland. The programme offers experience across multiple placements for a comprehensive understanding of our operations. This approach fosters both technical proficiency and interpersonal skills, enabling well-rounded development. The apprenticeship programme not only broadens our talent pool but also contributes to closing regional skills gaps and supporting the government’s push for green jobs. Local programmes like ours ensure that workforce development aligns with national sustainability goals, future-proofing industries while empowering individuals. “We are deeply committed to fostering diversity and inclusion, creating equal opportunities for all. Our search for passionate individuals to join our apprenticeship programme is driven by a mission to bridge progress and sustainability. We believe in the power of diverse perspectives to drive innovation and solve global challenges. “As the demand for green technology accelerates, apprentices will play a pivotal role in delivering projects that address climate challenges, support digital transformation, and strengthen the UK’s leadership in sustainable energy. Investing in apprenticeships is more than a business strategy—it is a commitment to building a sustainable future for the STEM industry and the communities it serves.” To find out more about the Schneider Electric apprenticeship programme, visit: https://peoplefirst.getmyfirstjob.co.uk/
Find your future in the solar industry
Solar Careers UK, an initiative of trade association Solar Energy UK, is hosting its first Solar Careers Hub event on Wednesday 5th March 2025, in partnership with South Thames College, Wandsworth. More than just a careers fair, the Solar Careers Hub will feature an engaging layout with interactive workshops, inspiring speakers, and direct access to hiring managers – creating meaningful connections for your future in solar energy. Solar Careers UK responds to the need for a larger solar and energy storage workforce by promoting career opportunities, supporting industry recruitment and highlighting training and development pathways. It aims to fulfil one of the key objectives of the forthcoming Solar Roadmap. Developed by the government-industry Solar Taskforce, the roadmap is expected to be published by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero in the coming weeks. A number of dignitaries are expected to attend, among them Deputy Mayor of London for Environment Mete Coban, local MP Marsha De Cordova, plus local councillors. What To Expect Connect with industry experts, training providers, and leading employers, all committed to helping you chart a successful path in this thriving sector. Whether you’re an experienced professional, a recent graduate, or simply curious about a career in solar, this event is your gateway to a brighter future. Date:Wednesday 5th March 2025 Opening Times:10:00 – 13:00 | Students (invite only)14:00 – 16:00 | General Public Location:South Thames College, Wandsworth High Street, SW18 2PP Registration: Access to the event at 10:00 – 13:00 is only for Students invited by South Thames College – NO REGISTRATION REQUIRED. General public access to the event at 14:00 – 16:00 will require registration for a free ticket here. Get Involved: To participate for free as an exhibitor, installer demonstration exhibitor, or hiring manager with job vacancies, please contact Sturge Mazzocchi via smazzocchi@solarenergyuk.org
NICEIC highlights value of apprenticeships this National Apprenticeship Week
As the electrical industry celebrates National Apprenticeship Week, new research from NICEIC underscores the vital role of apprenticeships in addressing skills needs and building a strong foundation for future growth. New research commissioned by NICEIC has highlighted challenges across the electrotechnical industry surrounding technical skills, recruitment and those starting a career in the industry. Given existing research around the industry’s skills gap, this reinforces the pressing need to build a strong talent pipeline through apprenticeships and training to ensure the industry continues to grow and deliver the necessary transformation of UK infrastructure. The research found over half (52%) of the electrical businesses that had recruited or attempted to recruit technical staff during 2024, found it to be a very difficult process. Moreover, of the firms not currently hiring apprentices, the admin involved (36%) as well as the difficulty of recruiting apprentices (17%) were cited as significant obstacles. This points to concerns that the entire industry should stand ready to address, that the existing infrastructure is not doing enough to reduce labour market friction and connect talent with work. More also needs to be done to encourage fresh talent to enter the industry and support them through apprenticeships into technical roles. Richard Orton, Chief Executive at NICEIC, commented: “Apprenticeships are integral to the electrotechnical industry. They are a key part of the industry’s heritage, how skills and technical knowledge have always been transferred from experienced professionals to new starters and looking forward, they will be crucial to closing the skills gap. When a business takes on an apprentice, they are not only making an investment in their business and that person’s future, but they are also helping to ensure the industry itself continues to grow. “This new research makes it clear that firms are looking to grow, take on new projects and invest in people, but the industrywide infrastructure is not always there to facilitate that. There needs to be a collective effort to put better structures in place, that help match electrical businesses with the talent they are clearly looking for. NICEIC is committed to helping the industry in this area and we are actively looking for ways to support NICEIC-certified businesses as they look to take on new apprentices.” Nearly one in three firms surveyed are looking to achieve sustainable growth over the next three years and of those nearly half (44%) intend to take on a new apprentice in 2025. This points to a demand among electrical businesses to seize new opportunities and the recognition that one of the best ways to achieve this is by training new staff through apprenticeships. This is further evidenced by the finding that 67% of firms that did hire in 2024, took on at least one apprentice. Satisfaction with apprentices already employed also remains high, with employers giving their apprentices a net positive score of 3.93 out of 5. While challenges do exist, including concerns about government funding (cited by 49% of firms) and the work-readiness of some apprentices (43%), underscoring the need for initiatives like the recently introduced T Levels, the overall feedback from employers is encouraging. Andy Downing, Group Operations Director at NICEIC-certified business Playfords commented: “When we find someone with an enthusiasm to learn and the desire to be on the tools, working on site and learning from experienced electricians, we generally know we’ve found someone who will be with us for many years and go on to have a successful career in the industry. It can be an incredibly rewarding career and there are countless examples, including many at Playfords who started as apprentices and are now in senior roles.” Demi Whitehead, who completed her apprenticeship and now works as an electrician at NICEIC-certified business, William Davies Homes, said: “I’d always suggest an apprenticeship to anyone thinking about their future. The skills I learnt set me up for my career and the thing I really enjoy about this industry is that there’s always more to learn as it continues to evolve.” For those interested in an electrotechnical apprenticeship For those interested in pursuing an electrotechnical apprenticeship, The Electrotechnical Skills Partnership (TESP) have a range of resources on training routes, apprenticeships and careers advice as well as labour market insights. For current electrotechnical apprentices NICEIC is committed to supporting electrotechnical apprentices’ training and welfare and has partnered with Electrical Industries Charity (EIC) on its free online learning portal, which offers mental health awareness training and resources for apprentices. NICEIC’s Student Membership is available to support and complement the training and personal development of students undertaking technical competency training. It’s applicable for full-time and part-time students as well as those studying through an apprenticeship within the electrotechnical industry. Benefits include the free NICEIC Pocket Guides App, access to our customer portal containing free technical information, regular newsletters and bulletins, Connections magazine on a quarterly basis and access to The WIRE – NICEIC’s live and on-demand technical webinars. The research was conducted by Habit5 Limited, an MRS Company Partner agency, between 13 – 21 January 2025 and gathered responses from 652 professionals working in NICEIC certified businesses. Any enquiries relating to the research study itself, should be directed to research@habit.co.uk.
NICEIC-certified business Playfords on their proud tradition of apprenticeships and bringing through fresh talent
The business Playfords is a Building Services Contractor with decades of expertise in electrical & mechanical services. This year, the company celebrates its 100-year trading anniversary. The Playfords story began in the 1880s when the company’s founder, Charles Playford was apprenticed to electrical pioneers, Baily, Grundy & Barrett. The business has been NICEIC-certified for over 50 years and its management team describe the company’s ethos as focused on continuous improvement, through a commitment to technical standards, training and development, and high-quality customer service. Major projects Playfords took on new investment in 2006, enabling it to take on major projects including a number of schools, hospitals and museums. The company has also worked on projects at sites of national significance including complex upgrade works at the Royal Opera House as well as the restoration and refurbishment of the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane. Apprenticeships The company runs a successful program of taking on and supporting young apprentices, many of whom have progressed into permanent key roles within the business, after completing their qualifications. Two of its directors, appointed in 2024, Gary Dickinson and Phil Taylor, both joined the company as apprentices. The company sees apprenticeships as one of the proudest parts of its tradition, pointing to examples like Mick Newman, who started his five-year Playfords apprenticeship in September 1962 at the age of sixteen. Mick went on to work his way through the business before retiring in 2015 as a contracts supervisor after 53 years with the company. Advice to those pursuing a career in the industry Playfords’ group operations director, Andy Downing says the business is always delighted to find new talent with a desire to be on site and learn the trade from experienced professionals. “When we find someone with an enthusiasm to learn and a desire to be on the tools, learning from experienced electricians on-site, we generally know we’ve found someone who will be with us for many years and go on to have a successful career in the industry. “There are so many talented young people, especially school leavers, who may not be interested in further academic study and are looking for alternative routes. An apprenticeship in the electrical industry is the start of a long-term career which offers so many options and opportunities, including a pathway to management if that is something you are interested in pursuing. That’s something we see first hand at Playfords, with many of my colleagues here, who started as apprentices now in senior roles.”
New Area Sales Manager at Forum Lighting instrumental in company growth plans
Forum Lighting Solutions Ltd continues to grow and expand, with the recent appointment of a new Area Sales Manager who will cover Yorkshire and the North East. With decades of experience in the lighting industry, Gary Pearson brings unparalleled expertise and a proven track record of driving sales growth and fostering client relationships. A seasoned professional, Gary has dedicated much of his career to the lighting sector, working with renowned companies such as Apollo Lighting and Ex-Or, part of Honeywell. His deep understanding of the industry’s evolving trends and client needs positions him perfectly to sell Forum’s leading products in the Yorkshire and the North East area, helping the lighting and smart control specialist into its next chapter of growth. Before moving into lighting, Gary was the drummer in the successful rock band, Vardis between 1978 and 1986. “We are thrilled to welcome Gary to the Forum Lighting Solutions family,” said James Ireland, Sales Director at Forum. “His extensive industry experience and leadership skills will be instrumental (pun intended!) as we continue to grow and innovate in the lighting sector. We’re confident he will make a significant impact.” Commenting on his new role, Gary said, “I am honoured to join Forum at such an exciting time for the company. I look forward to working with the talented team here to drive sales growth and expand the company’s presence across key markets, especially in Yorkshire and the North East.” This strategic addition to the team follows hot on the heels of the appointment of experienced Sales and Marketing Manager, Steve Kaye. These team appointments reflect Forum’s ongoing dedication to employing the very best staff so that the businesses’ reputation for innovation, excellence and customer service stays unrivalled. For more information about Forum Lighting Solutions, please visit www.forumlightingsolutions.com
NICEIC’s Apprenticeship Week 2025 programme
