Global | April 1, 2025

Shell Enhances its Transformer Liquid Portfolio, now includes Shell MIDEL

Shell adds MIDEL transformer liquids to its portfolio, expanding insulating liquid options for power grids, renewables, and industrial applications.

 

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Image credit: MIDEL

The Shell MIDEL range of transformer insulating liquids is now part of the Shell transformer liquids portfolio that includes Shell Diala, gas-to-liquid (GTL). To mark this development, the new Shell MIDEL brand has been launched worldwide on 1 April 2025. The addition of the Shell MIDEL liquids marks a new chapter in the power energy sector, with the goal of driving innovation, improving reliability, and accelerating the energy transition for Shell and the broader industry.¹

Shell MIDEL transformer liquids are to be found throughout the power network sector, from mainstream power and distribution transformers to specialised transformers used in renewable energy, rail, mining and industrial units. By integrating Shell MIDEL’s established ester liquid technology with Shell’s acknowledged supply chain resources, the expanded portfolio will provide enhanced energy efficiency solutions for clients globally.

Jason Wong, Executive Vice President for Global Lubricants, commented: “With the addition of Shell MIDEL, we are enhancing our global offering to the industry by complementing our established Shell Diala GTL product range with the exceptional properties of natural and synthetic ester transformer liquids.”

“Together, Shell MIDEL and Shell Diala comprise a portfolio that is broader, more innovative, and ready to meet the evolving needs of power grids across the globe,” Wong added.

Key features of the new transformer insulating liquid portfolio include:

  • Expanded product offering: With the inclusion of Shell, Shell now boasts a complete, end-to-end portfolio of transformer insulating liquids.  This expanded offering strengthens Shell’s commitment to providing reliable, high-performance solutions across the energy value chain.¹
  • Increased efficiency and reliability: The expanded portfolio will also offer improved efficiency, reduced downtime, and enhanced safety.¹
  • Increased environmental protection: Leveraging Shell MIDEL biodegradable,² non-hazardous³ synthetic and natural ester dielectric fluids, alongside Shell Diala,² Shell now offers a greater alternative to traditional transformer oils, helping to reduce the risk of environmental impact.
  • Global reach: With Shell’s worldwide footprint, its transformer liquid range will be available to a broader range of customers in key markets around the world, providing environmentally responsible,²ʹ³ high-quality transformer liquid solutions.¹

Shell’s acquisition of MIDEL and the launch of the new transformer portfolio reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to advancing the energy sector with innovative technologies. Such a commitment includes Shell’s simultaneous acquisition of the MIVOLT direct immersion cooling liquids (MIDEL and MIVOLT fluids were previously owned by UK manufacturer M&I Materials).  MIVOLT fluids are used in electrified transport, battery energy storage systems and data centres. These acquisitions are part of Shell’s broader strategy to develop solutions that accelerate the energy transition and meet the growing global demand for cleaner, more reliable energy.

About Shell

Shell is a global group of energy and petrochemical companies with operations in more than 70 countries. The company’s purpose is to power progress together by providing more and cleaner energy solutions.

Shell MIDEL ester-based transformer fluids are known for their environmental benefits and transformer fire risk mitigation properties. First developed in the 1970s⁴ by UK manufacturer M&I Materials Ltd, MIDEL fluids have been trusted and deployed by utility companies and transformer manufacturers worldwide.

References

1 Shell MIDEL and Shell Diala S4 ZX-I, S4 ZX-IG meet IEC/ISO and ASTM industry standards and S5 BD meet IEC/ISO, ASTM and CAN/CSA-C50-14 industry standards. Performance and approvals can be viewed on TDS or provided by Shell.

2 Shell MIDEL and Diala S4 ZX-I and S5 BD can be claimed as biodegradable according to OECD 301 test (product).

3 Shell MIDEL is non-hazardous according to the CLP regulation and GHS guidance.

4 Shell MIDEL 7131 was first launched in 1978 and is specified and used by transformer manufacturers and utilities worldwide. In 2023 the MIDEL brand was acquired by Shell and is now known as Shell MIDEL.

Source: MIDEL