Interview: Saurabh Patawari

Managing Partner at National Electrical Equipments Corporation (NEEC)

NEEC Sets New Standards in Energy-Efficient Transformer Manufacturing

February 26, 2025. By Aishwarya

NEEC incorporates advancements in both materials and technology to ensure the longevity, efficiency, and reliability of its transformers, states Saurabh Patawari, Managing Partner, NEEC in his recent interaction with Aishwarya Saxena, Energetica India.

Que: Can you discuss NEEC's approach to addressing the evolving demands of the power sector?

Ans: NEEC's approach to addressing the evolving demands of the power sector revolves around a combination of innovation, customization, and sustainability. The company manufactures both standard and custom transformers, with power and distribution transformers ranging up to 17.5 MVA and 34.5 kV class, all in strict adherence to IS and IEC standards.

With the increasing integration of renewable energy sources like solar and wind, NEEC has developed specialized transformers designed to handle the specific needs of these applications. These transformers feature enhanced voltage regulation and thermal performance to accommodate renewable energy inputs efficiently.

In line with the move towards smarter grids, NEEC has also introduced IoT-enabled transformers that provide real-time monitoring, predictive maintenance, and digital control, thereby optimizing grid performance. Additionally, NEEC places significant focus on improving energy efficiency, reducing losses in the core and windings, and utilizing eco-friendly materials to minimize environmental impact. The company also tailors its transformer designs to meet the evolving requirements of electricity boards, with transformers that feature high short-circuit withstand capacity and low loss characteristics.


Que: How does NEEC incorporate advancements in materials and technology into its manufacturing processes, and what certifications does NEEC hold to validate its manufacturing standards?

Ans: NEEC incorporates advancements in both materials and technology to ensure the longevity, efficiency, and reliability of its transformers. The company uses high-grade CRGO (Cold Rolled Grain Oriented) steel, which significantly enhances the efficiency of transformers, along with amorphous core materials and advanced insulation oils to improve durability.

To further improve transformer reliability, NEEC has upgraded its windings and insulation with thermally enhanced paper and Nomex insulation, providing increased thermal stability and performance. In terms of certifications, NEEC holds several industry-standard certifications that demonstrate their commitment to quality and environmental management. These include compliance with IS 1180 and IS 2026 for distribution and power transformers, as well as IEC 60076 for performance and testing requirements.

Additionally, NEEC holds the BEE Star Rating for energy-efficient transformers, showing their focus on sustainability. The company is also certified under ISO 9001 for quality management and ISO 14001 for environmental management, further validating their adherence to global manufacturing standards.


Que: What factors are considered for transformer insulation design at NEEC, and how does NEEC address issues related to electromagnetic compatibility in its transformer designs?

Ans: In designing transformer insulation, NEEC takes several critical factors into consideration to ensure both reliability and longevity. The dielectric strength of insulation material is prioritized to ensure effective electrical insulation. The ability of the transformer to withstand short circuits is also factored into the design, with oil impregnation being crucial for cooling and maintaining the stability of the insulation.

Surge protection is incorporated to protect against transient overvoltages. On the electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) front, NEEC utilizes shielding techniques to minimize electromagnetic interference (EMI), which could otherwise affect the functioning of nearby equipment. The company also optimizes grounding and earthing designs to ensure safe and efficient operation of the transformers. To further prevent issues, NEEC employs high-frequency noise suppression techniques to safeguard sensitive grid components from EMI.


Que: What initiatives has NEEC implemented to improve the energy efficiency of its transformers, and what differentiates your after-sales services from others in the market that cater to the needs of your clients?

Ans: NEEC has implemented several initiatives to improve the energy efficiency of its transformers. These include the use of low-loss core materials, such as CRGO steel, and high-conductivity copper and aluminum windings to minimize energy losses. The company also utilizes advanced cooling methods (ONAN) to ensure that transformers maintain optimal operating temperatures, further improving their overall efficiency.

NEEC’s commitment to energy efficiency is reinforced by their adherence to strict BEE and IEC loss guidelines. In terms of after-sales services, NEEC stands out with its rapid response teams for troubleshooting and maintenance, ensuring that client issues are addressed promptly. The company also offers transformer health monitoring systems that allow for proactive failure prevention, providing real-time data on the condition of the transformer.

NEEC’s Annual Maintenance Contracts (AMC) are customized for clients, including utilities and industries, and provide both on-site support and remote diagnostics, which reduces transformer downtime and ensures long-term reliability.


Que: How does NEEC ensure compliance with varying international standards and regulations, and what measures are in place at NEEC to mitigate the risks of transformer failures in the field?

Ans: NEEC ensures compliance with varying international standards by aligning its products with IEC, IEEE, and regional standards, ensuring that they meet global export requirements. The company goes a step further by conducting third-party type testing at NABL-accredited labs to validate the reliability and performance of its transformers.

To mitigate the risks of transformer failures in the field, NEEC has put several measures in place, including stringent quality control at every stage of the manufacturing process. This includes routine, type, and special testing to ensure the electrical, thermal, and mechanical performance of each transformer.

In addition, NEEC conducts in-depth failure analysis and condition monitoring, which allows for early detection and prevention of potential issues. The use of advanced protective relays and insulation coordination further minimizes the risk of operational failures, ensuring that transformers continue to perform optimally in the field.


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