New liquid to revolutionise transformer cooling
After a year of secrecy, Chinese scientists have finally revealed a groundbreaking discovery: a new liquid coolant for transformers - made from coffee.
Image for illustration purposes
China, Beijing: In 2024, a team of researchers at the State Grid Electric Power Research Institute (SGEPRI) in China quietly began testing alternative insulating fluids. Their goal was to find a safer, more efficient, and environmentally friendly replacement for traditional mineral oil used in transformers. After extensive studies, they confirmed that cold-brew coffee, when processed correctly, outperforms conventional cooling liquids in multiple aspects.
A recently published study in the Journal of Power Systems Engineering highlights key findings from SGEPRI’s research:
High dielectric strength: Lab tests confirmed that specially filtered coffee can withstand electrical fields in transformers of more than 40 kV/mm, exceeding the performance of many synthetic ester-based oils.
Superior heat dissipation: Coffee’s natural polyphenols improve thermal conductivity by 20 %, reducing transformer coil temperatures by an average of 16°C.
Anti-oxidation properties: The caffeine and antioxidants found in coffee prevent sludge buildup, extending transformer life by at least 30 % compared to traditional oils.
Eco-friendly and fire-resistant: Unlike petroleum-based oils, coffee is biodegradable, non-toxic, and has a higher flashpoint, significantly reducing fire hazards.
According to Dr Liu Wei, lead researcher at SGEPRI: “We wanted to keep our findings under wraps until we had conclusive data. Now that we do, we believe coffee-based dielectric fluids could redefine transformer efficiency worldwide. It is cost-effective, sustainable, and performs better than we ever expected.”
As of today, the first transformers are “drinking” coffee, with real-life trials now in progress. In a historic shift for transformer technology, several high-voltage transformers are being built and tested in the Gobi Desert, filled with the newly developed coffee-based coolant. Scientists and engineers are closely analysing performance data, and early results show enhanced cooling efficiency and superior insulation properties, paving the way for a more sustainable power grid.
“Our final coolant formula is not just coffee – it has a carefully engineered frothy texture, making it resemble cappuccino rather than a simple brew,” concluded Dr Wei.
Source: SGEPRI
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