Avaliação de custos acerca da transição de eficiência energética em transformadores de distribuição: um estudo comparativo entre as tecnologias de núcleo empilhado e jencore

Abstract

The contemporary scenario of energy transition and the search for sustainability has intensified the demand for more efficient transformers, given that the efficiency of these devices directly affects electrical losses in distribution networks. In light of the imminent change in manufacturing guidelines established by Brazilian regulatory bodies, which mandate the transition of energy distribution transformer efficiency classes, a problem arises regarding the impact on manufacturing costs for Brazilian manufacturers. This study is justified by the need to understand the resulting financial increase, aiming to guide a national company to maintain market competitiveness while balancing production costs and regulatory requirements. The general objective is to analyze the budgetary impact of the transition between efficiency classes “C” and “B” in the production of 45 and 75 kVA distribution transformers, by comparing two distinct types of ferromagnetic cores: stacked and jencore. The methodology consisted of electromechanical design utilizing spreadsheet calculation tools and a quantitative cost assessment based on the direct production cost (CDP), accounting for materials and labor in the production processes. The study identified that the transition to Class B using a stacked core proved to be more viable for the 75 kVA power transformers, whereas the jencore technology is more advantageous for the 45 kVA equipment. The increase in production cost for Class B transformers ranged between 17.27% and 35.29%, with silicon steel being the raw material with the highest financial impact on the transformer.