ABB's new VRLTC (vacuum reactance load tap changer) introduces new technology in tap changers. The one second tap changer feature appealed to engineers while the digital motor and tap changer monitor impressed transformer users. These features eliminate the need for electro-mechanical parts. By sending alerts, the VRLTC is smart grid ready. Substation service and maintenance individuals liked the features such as the drip-tray, return to neutral capability, and maintenance jog feature of the servo-motor.
Dry-type transformers unveiled two new products; the PoleDry and the dry-type submersible network transformer. Both products received much interest from North American utility customers. The new PoleDry is ABB's first ever dry-type pole mount distribution transformer. Since there is no fluid inside, customers were interested in the use of the network transformers in densely populated metropolitan areas and PoleDry transformers in sensitive swamp and marshland ecosystems.
"The great number of product displays along with the display from Baldor was quite impressive to customers," said Tom Minnich, general manager of small power transformers in South Boston, Virginia and Crystal Springs, Mississippi. "The combination of the small power transformer on display beside the tap changer worked well. Many visiting the small power transformer were immediately intrigued by the new tap changer and vice-versa."
Other products and solutions on display
Transformer Remanufacturing and Engineering Services (TRES) showcased their brand new Mobile HV Transformer Testing System, their TrafoSite RepairTM capabilities, LTC retrofit kits, and Mature Transformer Management ProgramTMplatform.
Distribution transformers highlighted the greenest distribution transformer available. The Green-R-PadTM transformer can increase efficiency and reduce environmental impact.
"Customers did comment, that the event was a great showcase for our products and that they now realized how large our scope truly was in ABB," said Rick Mucha, marketing manager for distribution transformers in Jefferson City, Missouri.
Automation & Power World is a comprehensive user's conference and exhibition that showcases ABB's extensive automation and power offerings and expertise under one roof. This year's event - Automation & Power World 2011 - was held at the Marriot World Center in Orlando, Florida. It included more than 500 hours of workshops, case studies, technical training and panel discussions, and a 70,000-square foot exhibit hall known as the Technology & Solution Center, which featured solutions and products from nearly every ABB division and business unit in the country.
2012 event returns to Houston
ABB also announced the dates and venue for ABB Automation & Power World 2012. The event will return to the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston, Texas, on April 23-25, 2012.
Automation & Power World blog
If you'd like to read more about the event and some of the workshops presented, please visit the official Automation & Power World blog.
