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<p>Distribution transformers play a crucial role in the energy sector; nevertheless, it is essential to thoroughly evaluate the environmental impacts associated with the materials employed across their life cycle. This paper examines and assesses the cradle-to-grave environmental impacts of four distribution transformers: oil-immersed units rated at 250 kVA, 630 kVA, and 1000 kVA, and one liquid-filled transformer rated at 400 kVA. Environmental impacts are determined utilizing SimaPro software (version 9.3.0.3) in conjunction with databases such as ecoinvent (version 3.8), United States Life Cycle Inventory (USLCI), and Industry Data 2.0. Results indicate that within manufacturing, core and winding processes are the main contributors to most impact categories, driven by magnetic steel cutting and aluminum windings. Drying, tanking, and oil filling also influence ozone depletion due to insulating liquids. Across the full life cycle, the use phase dominates all impact categories considered as a result of load and no-load losses over a 35-year service life, with contributions exceeding 90% in climate change and ozone depletion. Sensitivity analyses confirmed the robustness of results and highlighted potential improvements through the use of recycled metals, alternative steel processes, and renewable energy integration. The study delivers one of the first detailed life cycle inventories for distribution transformers in the Middle East, providing a transparent basis for benchmarking and strategies to reduce environmental impacts.</p>

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Cradle-to-grave environmental life cycle assessment of oil-immersed and liquid-filled distribution transformers

  • 期刊论文

  • 发表日期：

    2026年1月3日

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  • Marleine Boutros,
  • Makram El Bachawati,
  • Rima Manneh

摘要

Distribution transformers play a crucial role in the energy sector; nevertheless, it is essential to thoroughly evaluate the environmental impacts associated with the materials employed across their life cycle. This paper examines and assesses the cradle-to-grave environmental impacts of four distribution transformers: oil-immersed units rated at 250 kVA, 630 kVA, and 1000 kVA, and one liquid-filled transformer rated at 400 kVA. Environmental impacts are determined utilizing SimaPro software (version 9.3.0.3) in conjunction with databases such as ecoinvent (version 3.8), United States Life Cycle Inventory (USLCI), and Industry Data 2.0. Results indicate that within manufacturing, core and winding processes are the main contributors to most impact categories, driven by magnetic steel cutting and aluminum windings. Drying, tanking, and oil filling also influence ozone depletion due to insulating liquids. Across the full life cycle, the use phase dominates all impact categories considered as a result of load and no-load losses over a 35-year service life, with contributions exceeding 90% in climate change and ozone depletion. Sensitivity analyses confirmed the robustness of results and highlighted potential improvements through the use of recycled metals, alternative steel processes, and renewable energy integration. The study delivers one of the first detailed life cycle inventories for distribution transformers in the Middle East, providing a transparent basis for benchmarking and strategies to reduce environmental impacts.