Electrical Power & Protection


Setting new standards in dry-type transformer technology

November 2025 Electrical Power & Protection

As demand grows for safer, more reliable and environmentally responsible power infrastructure, dry-type transformer technology is gaining ground globally and leading the charge in Africa is Trafo Power Solutions, in partnership with Italian manufacturer, TMC Transformers.

This dynamic collaboration, now in its seventh year, continues to push the boundaries of dry-type transformer design and application. According to Trafo Power Solutions managing director, David Claassen, the company has played a pivotal role in introducing this technology to a wide range of industries across Africa, from mining and manufacturing to renewable energy and infrastructure.

“Our work with TMC Transformers enables us to deliver custom engineered dry-type transformer solutions that meet even the most demanding specifications,” says Claassen. “Our success lies in a shared culture of innovation, agility and technical excellence.”

TMC Transformers sales director, Andrea Ghidini explains that the company is known for tackling complex challenges with highly specialised solutions. “We are often approached for non-standard applications, such as transformers with ratings up to 25 MVA or primary windings at 50 kV, or units handling extreme harmonic distortion or secondary currents of up to 30 000 amps,” he says.

One of Trafo Power Solutions’ primary markets in Africa is mining operations, and the challenges extend beyond electrical performance. Transformers must be robust enough to endure long and difficult transport routes, severe vibration, high dust levels and extreme temperatures.

“Dry-type technology is ideal in these environments, especially as safety and environmental concerns grow,” Claassen notes. “Unlike oil-filled transformers, dry-type units are air cooled and present minimal fire risk, making them suitable for installation near operational areas and personnel.”

Once confined to indoor use, dry-type transformers are now widely used in outdoor applications thanks to technological advancements. Higher protection ratings and improved cooling options, including forced-air, air-to-water and direct or indirect water cooling, allow these units to operate reliably, even in Africa’s toughest climates.

What sets this partnership apart is its commitment to engineering precision. TMC uses advanced simulation tools including finite element analysis and thermodynamic modelling to verify every design before production. This ensures optimal performance, long-term reliability and reduced operational risk.

“Rather than just meeting the brief, we interrogate every application to offer smarter alternatives or highlight potential issues,” says Ghidini. “This the value of custom engineering.”

Claassen adds that customers benefit from this depth of expertise: “We don’t just sell transformers, we deliver engineered power solutions that support long-term operational success.”

With this collaboration, Trafo Power Solutions and TMC Transformers continue to redefine what is possible in dry-type transformer technology, setting new benchmarks for innovation, safety and performance across the continent.

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/trafopowersolutions

Twitter: www.twitter.com/trafo_power

Facebook: www.facebook.com/trafopowersolutions

For more information contact Trafo Power Solutions, +27 11 325 4007, [email protected], www.trafo.co.za




Share this article:
Share via emailShare via LinkedInPrint this page

Further reading:

Quantum battery charges in a quadrillionth of a second with a laser
Electrical Power & Protection
Researchers have created the world’s first miniature, proof-of-concept quantum battery. If the technology can be replicated, it could transform the field of energy storage forever and open up new possibilities for lightweight, remote electrification, experts say.

Read more...
Phoenix Contact brings machine learning forecasts ito energy management
Phoenix Contact Electrical Power & Protection
Phoenix Contact is extending its Energy Management Service to include a powerful forecasting function.

Read more...
Unpacking the technoeconomic case for cleaner power in wastewater plants
Schneider Electric South Africa Electrical Power & Protection
Behind every reliable wastewater plant is an electrical system exposed to the effects of harmonics, voltage distortion and overloaded networks caused by fleets of variable speed drives on pumps and aerators.Together, they steadily drive up maintenance demands and elevate the risk of failure.

Read more...
Energy strategy as a competitive advantage for African businesses
Electrical Power & Protection
Energy is no longer simply something that businesses consume. When managed effectively, it becomes a controllable asset that supports resilience and efficiency and sets the foundation for long-term competitiveness.

Read more...
World’s fastest 14 bit arbitrary waveform generator
Vepac Electronics Electrical Power & Protection
The ARB Rider AWG-700 from Vepac is the world’s fastest 14 bit arbitrary waveform generator, with a 20 GS/s real-time update rate and 14 bit vertical resolution.

Read more...
Transformers for mining house in Botswana
ACTOM Electrical Machines Electrical Power & Protection
LH Marthinusen is completing the manufacture of two 30 MVA transformers for a mining house in Botswana.

Read more...
DIN-rail power supplies for reliable and efficient AC/DC conversion
Conical Technologies Electrical Power & Protection
The Claf Power AD75-2BxxS series DIN-rail power supplies are designed for industrial automation, control systems and process environments.

Read more...
Rethinking power for Africa’s data centres
Schneider Electric South Africa Electrical Power & Protection
Africa’s digital economy is scaling faster than its power systems. If it wants resilient, competitive and sustainable data centres, the starting point must be a grid-to-chip architecture rather than a genset-first mentality.

Read more...
The growing decentralisation of power grids
Electrical Power & Protection
The decentralisation of power generation is changing how national grids function. For electrical engineers, several new challenges and opportunities are on the horizon.

Read more...
Custom mini substations for Zambian copper mine
Electrical Power & Protection
Recent orders to supply seventeen specially engineered mini substations for an underground copper mine in Zambia reinforces Trafo Power Solution’s track record in delivering customised electrical solutons for challenging environments.

Read more...









While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein, the publisher and its agents cannot be held responsible for any errors contained, or any loss incurred as a result. Articles published do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers. The editor reserves the right to alter or cut copy. Articles submitted are deemed to have been cleared for publication. Advertisements and company contact details are published as provided by the advertiser. Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd cannot be held responsible for the accuracy or veracity of supplied material.




© Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd | All Rights Reserved