ABB supplied power transformers in record time to limit the consequences of the energy crisis in Brazil Electricity for 3,2 million people in the São Paulo region. ABB, the global technology group, supplied two extra-high-voltage (765 kV) power transformers to the Brazilian Utility Furnas - the period between the placing of the order and the delivery was just six months. Normally, delivery periods of over a year are quoted for products of this level of complexity. The two transformers allow the additional transmission of 1500 MW of electricity from the world's largest hydro power plant, Itaipu, to the region of Brazil around São Paulo. This is enough power to supply to 3,2 million people.
Brazil is currently undergoing a serious energy crisis. The volume of energy available cannot keep up with the fast rising need for power; on the contrary - the Brazilian government has already been forced to limit the consumption of power by law. Electricity has been rationed in Brazil since June 2001, and the low production capacities of the power plants can only be expanded very gradually.
In order to counter the threat of a blackout, the Brazilian power companies depend on reliable technology for the transmission of power. "Above all, we are proud that we were able to help our customer so quickly with the right technical solution," says Peter Smits, Head of the ABB Division Power Technology Products, "because every day of the energy shortage reduces the productivity of industry and restricts the quality of life of the people," he continued.
The two power transformers are now a part of the Tijuco Preto substation. Each unit has a rated power of 550 MVA and voltage of 765 kV. The extra-high-voltage transformers, which weigh around 280 tonnes each, were produced in ABB's Guarulhos factory. They are the largest transformers ever produced by ABB in Brazil.
A team of 35 engineers and fitters worked around the clock on the products for about six months. "During this time, our Brazilian colleagues were able to access the wide-ranging expertise of our worldwide technology and production network," says Joakim Olsson, who is responsible at ABB for power transformers. "The unusually short production time was only possible because of the very efficient planning and design process and the smooth teamwork with the customer." The ABB engineers saved more time by using a special transport concept (taking three instead of 30 days) and an innovative installation process on site (13 instead of 40 days).
Reinstatement opportunity for ECSA registration
News
In 2023 the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA) announced a special opportunity for engineers in South Africa to reinstate their registration status if it had been cancelled. This exclusive offer is available until the end of August 2024.
Read more...Schneider Electric launches first Innovation Hub in Africa Schneider Electric South Africa
News
Schneider Electric has officially launched its first Innovation Hub in Africa. This provides an interactive environment where visitors can explore the company’s integrated solutions across key segments and businesses such as energy, buildings, data centres, industrial, and power and grid.
Read more...Transforming pulp and paper with automation and digitalisation ABB South Africa
IT in Manufacturing
The pulp and paper industry in South Africa is undergoing a significant transformation from traditional manual processes to embracing automation technologies. Automation in pulp and paper mills aims to improve various production stages, from raw material preparation to final product creation.
Read more...A strategic milestone for Conical Technologies Conical Technologies
News
Conical Technologies has been appointed as the sole distributor in southern Africa for Mibbo, manufacturers of a vast array of products for the automation industry.
Read more...Robotics TechTalk at UKZN
News
The Scientific Multidisciplinary Advanced Research Technology Lab at the University of KwaZulu-Natal recently held an exciting TechTalk. It was an opportunity to introduce students to the IEEE Robotics and Automation chapter, SAIMC, and the Robotics Association of South Africa.
Read more...Schneider Electric honoured with Gender Leader Award Schneider Electric South Africa
News
Schneider Electric has been awarded the Gender Leader Award at this year’s Africa CEO Forum. This award acknowledges those organisations operating in Africa that have shown a significant and continuous commitment to gender diversity and inclusion.
Read more...Africa Automation Technology Fair 2025 closes on a high note
News
The Africa Automation Technology Fair 2025 officially wrapped up after three dynamic days at Gallagher Convention Centre, cementing its status as Africa’s leading platform for industrial automation, AI and IoT.
Read more...A new generation of solar professionals
News
A new generation of solar professionals is rising in Cape Town. The second cohort of the Solar Youth Project has just completed an intensive eight-week training course and is ready to take on the next stage, 10 months of work experience.
printer friendly version