Mining in Australia and New Zealand operates in some of the toughest conditions around: scorching heat, abrasive dust and unpredictable loads.
That’s exactly why TECO Australia and New Zealand has launched its dedicated green energy solutions, introducing power transformers ranging from 25 kVA up to 150 MVA / 150 kV that are purpose-engineered for local mining sites.
“We’ve applied cutting-edge design principles to create transformers that can handle the most brutal operational stresses,” TECO energy solutions sales manager Gustavo Sgrott said. “From grain-oriented steel cores to vapor phase drying (VPD) technology, every detail aims for reliability and long equipment life.”
Built for extreme environments
- High short-circuit withstand capability
TECO transformers are designed to endure sudden and extreme current surges – a critical benefit in harsh industrial and mining settings where fault events can be unpredictable. This robust design minimises the risk of catastrophic failures and helps maintain operational continuity. - Low partial discharge (pC range)
By employing advanced insulation materials and a dust-free assembly process (including extended vacuuming and VPD), TECO achieves very low partial discharge levels. This can translate to extended insulation life, reduced downtime and fewer surprises when you’re far from major service centres. - High mechanical strength
TECO uses continuously transposed conductors (CTC) for both primary and secondary windings, ensuring that the mechanical integrity stands up to aggressive load cycles and short-circuit forces. Finite element analysis (FEA) further refines stress points, bolstering durability where it matters most.
Optimised core and coil design
- Grain-oriented electric steel (GOES)
TECO’s step-lap joint method and GOES sheets up to grade 0.75 minimise iron losses and reduce excitation current, keeping heat generation in check and energy consumption low. - Net-wrapped CTC
A compact design that maximises cooling efficiency while preventing hot-spot formation. This helps maintain stable operation, even under sustained heavy loads – a crucial advantage in remote mining sites.
“Beyond standard specs, we customise winding configurations and cooling methods to match each mine’s unique electrical profile,” Sgrott said. “That’s key for operators looking to optimise performance and minimise downtime.”
Thorough testing for reliability
- Up to 150 kV lab capabilities
Every transformer undergoes no-load loss, load-loss, impulse, and partial-discharge tests, ensuring compliance with both Australian and international standards (IEC 60076-x series). Temperature rise, frequency response analysis (SFRA), and zero sequence impedance checks further aid performance. - Reduced noise and minimal leakage
Low-noise design (below 67 dBA at 0.3 m for many models) makes these transformers suitable even in noise-sensitive areas. Leak-proof tank construction also cuts environmental risk and long-term service costs.
Local support
“Customers aren’t just buying a transformer; they’re securing a sustainable partnership,” Sgrott said. “We walk alongside them from the spec phase to ongoing service, ensuring the technology evolves alongside their operation.”
Sustainability and future readiness
All TECO solutions align with the company’s net-zero emissions goal by 2050, as well as the mining industry’s broader effort to cut carbon footprints. Whether you’re ramping up production or transitioning to greener processes, TECO’s advanced transformers deliver both performance and peace of mind.
If your mine demands uncompromising reliability, robust short-circuit resilience, and local end-to-end support, TECO’s green energy solutions transformers can provide the perfect fit.
For more details, contact our team at nbd@teco.com.au
