A transformer is a machine used for transforming power without changing the frequency from one circuit to other. It is a static device since there is no rotating or moving part and works on ac supply. The working principle employed is a principle of mutual induction. The transformer used as low voltage power can’t be transmitted to receiving end. This power if transmitted induces massive line losses, but if the voltage level is increased the current of the power is reduced and thereby reduces the capital cost of the system and improves the voltage regulation of the system owing to these, the low power needs to be stepped up for efficient transmission of electricity. Electric power transformer thus plays a pivotal role in power transmission.
Power transformers have a broad range of applications such as in chemical plant industries, mining, etc. Growing demand for electricity in developing and developed nations with rapid economic development and need for 24*7 power supply to all is expected to be the key driving factor for the growth of the market. Additionally, government initiatives for modernizing existing power grid and installing advanced transformers for minimizing losses and improving energy efficiency are expected to raise the demand. The aging equipment is not compatible with current technical and environmental requirements. Hence, there is a growing demand for more environment-friendly products.
High transmission and distribution losses and load growth emphasize the need to increase substations. Due to economic development and growing need for reliable and uninterrupted power supply in countries such as India, China, Russia and Brazil, the power demand is expected to grow at a healthy growth rate in coming years.
Also, the non-renewable electricity generation sources account for primary energy production. However, their use hugely impacts the environment by increasing the carbon dioxide levels in the air. Therefore, it calls to lower the carbon emissions and safeguard in new and existing power plants. Use of renewable sources of power generation can significantly lessen the impact of environmental pollution. However, the prices of raw materials such as aluminum, oil, steel and copper have been irregular over the years and are likely to slow down the growth of the market.
In 2015, output power such as 100 MVA to 500 MVA led the global transformer market and accounted for about 68% of the industry split. Also, the various usage of the same in transmission and distribution network for the step up and step down purpose is projected to increase the demand. The output power of 801 MVA to 1200 MVA is expected to grow owing to the growing energy need from developing needs such as China, Brazil and India and finds application in Ultra High Voltage direct current and High Voltage direct current power generation.
The power transformer market of Asia Pacific reported for around USD 7 Billion in 2015 and is likely to witness major gains over the next few years owing to growing need for reliable and uninterrupted power supply and massive economic development in this region.
North America driven by the U.S. is anticipated to grow at an elevated rate owing to increase modernization and urbanization in the region. In European nations several initiatives have been adopted for installing green transformer are expected to boost the demand growth of the region in future.
Toshiba Corp, Crompton Greaves Ltd, GE Co., ABB Ltd, Alstom SA, Siemens AG hugely dominate power transformer market share. Increasing production capacity and improving the product life are the strategy adopted by the participants to improve the market share.
Crompton Greaves Ltd has a complete range of power transformers and is manufactured in India, USA, Belgium, Indonesia, and Hungary. They offer Regulating transformers, mobile transformers, etc. Recently, CG has won a million dollar order from PT PLN Indonesia to improve the transmission grid of Indonesia. Alstom has developed green variants for the environmentally fragile zone with features includes an online monitoring system and low noise.
The power transformer market is highly regulated, and several regulations mandate by the government have to be fulfilled by the players. Also, the key players are investing in research and design to improve their technology so as to meet the environment compliance set by the regulatory agency and Government and to improve efficiency.
