September 20, 2010

During The U.S. Conference of Mayors Annual Meeting in Oklahoma City, Mary Kate Campbell of DuPont introduced mayors to the ReliatraNª SIDT, a solid insulation distribution transformer, which represents the first innovation in residential transformer construction in 100 years.ÊCampbell noted this new technology is a significant development, a big change from the days of older transformers which she described as "those big green boxes that we all had in our neighborhoods - you know the ones - you climbed on them and they got really hot in the summer" to more aesthetically pleasing transformer technology.

As we end the summer storm season and continue through hurricane season, the ReliatraNª SIDT offers a solution for communities located in coastal areas. These cities must take into account the consequences of heavy storms and rains when planning or approving residential developments. This new transformer technology is designed for underground installation and will continue to perform while completely under water. Prior to this development, communities had no other choice than pad-mount transformers filled with 30-50 gallons of flammable mineral oil, which had to be kept above ground. These oil filled transformers that currently dot neighborhoods across the country are considered hazardous by the EPA. The ReliatraNª SIDT transformer, however, is the first "fluid free" transformer.

The ReliatraNª SIDT meets the needs of "smart-grids" which demand higher reliability and security.ÊThe transformer's construction is fire-resistant and self-extinguishing; it contains no volatile liquids. Underground installations help eliminate vandalism of the transformer as well as interruption of service due to traffic accidents and other similar incidents. Because the unit is half the size of older transformers and can be placed underground, communities can maximize land use and beautify their neighborhoods.

This new transformer technology fits in with DuPont's continued efforts to help cities use more environmentally sustainable technologies and builds upon their work on solar issues as a founding member of The Conference of Mayor's Climate Change Center. Campbell closed her Oklahoma City speech with an invitation for mayors: "So, if you or one of your city planners would like to learn more about this product, I'm happy to put you into the hands of the folks who do this every day. And I have to say, I'm glad that we have those people - a lot of those people - at DuPont." The ReliatraNª SIDT transformer will help mayors and city planners alike plan safer, more beautiful and energy efficient communities. For more information, contact Alexander Cochran at alexander@bgrdc.com.