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:

Advanced process control for the IRP
Schneider Electric South Africa Electrical Power & Protection
One of the main challenges in implementing South Africa’s Integrated Resource Plan is ensuring grid stability while integrating renewable energy sources and balancing fluctuating energy demands. Advanced process control can play an important role.

Read more...
Revolutionising fault location and maximising solar production
Comtest Electrical Power & Protection
Comtest has on offer the Fluke GFL-1500 solar ground fault locator, a frontline troubleshooting tool that helps technicians pinpoint active ground faults in solar photovoltaic systems.

Read more...
Supporting the AI boom with power architecture
Electrical Power & Protection
Hitachi Energy is supporting the 800 VDC power architecture announced by Nvidia, by developing a cleaner, more efficient way to power the next generation of AI infrastructure.

Read more...
Kyocera releases new stacked capacitors
Electrical Power & Protection
Kyocera AVX has released the new KGP Series commercial-grade stacked capacitors for high-frequency applications in the industrial and downhole oil and gas industries.

Read more...
More sustainable tyres
Electrical Power & Protection
Continental is prioritising the use of renewable and recycled materials in its tyre production

Read more...
World’s first hydrogen-powered driverless tractor
Electrical Power & Protection
Kubota has unveiled the world’s first hydrogen fuel cell tractor with a self-driving function.

Read more...
ABB drives rail modernisation and EV growth in South Africa
Electrical Power & Protection
ABB’s work in Africa in low- and medium-voltage infrastructure, safety-critical components and electrification puts it at the heart of accomplishing the Southern African Railways Association’s strategy.

Read more...
Revolutionising electrical infrastructure through digital innovation
Schneider Electric South Africa Electrical Power & Protection
In today’s rapidly evolving industrial and commercial landscapes, the integrity of electrical infrastructure has become a non-negotiable priority.

Read more...
Hitachi Energy’s power quality solution
Electrical Power & Protection
Hitachi Energy has announced the deployment of its power quality solution to connect Tanzania’s leading gold producer, Geita Gold Mine (GGML) securely to the national grid.

Read more...
Rail electrification and EV solutions for integrated transport systems
Electrical Power & Protection
A comprehensive range of solutions for rail electrification and electric vehicles is available from leading technology provider ABB, contributing significantly to integrated and sustainable transport systems.

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