Changing Transformer Primary Winding

In a word, no.

agree.

The installation needs a new transformer, and circuit protection equipment, suited to the higher supply voltage - <...experts...> a simple telephone call to the transformer manufacturer, where the expertise lies, would have confirmed that.

The stored transformer may have some residual value on the second-hand equipment market, which can be used to offset the purchase of the replacement.

As the utility cables are likely to need replacement too, it may be worth investigating the replacement of other nearby transformers to see whether some system rationalisation and the displacement of other equipment could add to the purchase value offset. If in doubt consult a qualified Electrical Engineer locally.

As JR said "no".

Sell the old transformer and use the funds towards the new transformer. There is a good market for 2^nd user electrical equipment due to recession.

Theoretically you could use the actual core if you would keep the same voltage per turn.

But you have to consider the coil dimensions as number of turns increases and the insulation also. You have to stick the new bobbins in the same space. In my opinion if the transformer rated power would be 100-200 kVA it could very difficult. But, it seems to me, for 1600 kVA no major change in overall dimensions will be required.

In any way you have to order the new windings from a special manufacturer-like Siemens, ABB and others.

As TonyS said, may be it will be better to buy a new transformer.

Still, I think, you need a "tailor made" transformer since 525 V rated it is not a standard one, in my opinion.

NO. Trade the old XFMR in for new rating one, that has already been designed for that service, tested, and quality-controlled seven ways from Sunday.

Never do that.

You would have had to basically gut the thing, and start over with both windings, then you still not be sure the case is sufficiently isolated for safety, much less the requirement for new bushings.

Yes, you can rewind it for different voltages and no the core is not a concern. It's size and design is only affected by frequency and overall working capacity.

Regardless of your primary to secondary voltage ratios the core is still a 1600KVA unit.

After you finish winding the primary, you have to impregnate it. And this you cannot do.

I have never witnessed a transformer impregnation...I was just wondering about the gestation period...

Final warning: Kids! Do not try this at home! Don't even try this at work!

In the 60's while involved in transformer mfg, the transformers after coming off the winder section, they are oven-dried before being soaked into tubs filled with liquid electrical insulating varnish... They're left soaking, immersed until all air occupied spaces has been completely eliminated.. with no more air bubbles observed after certain elapsed time...

At this point they are considered to be already impregnated!

But, but, but....when do the little baby transformers come out?

Over certain period of time after expelling any trapped air ...like burping babies! they'll be more comfy, when bubbling stops....

Yes sir, that's your baby! No sir, I don't mean maybe! Yes sir, that's your baby now!

Love that too!! �� ����

Theoretically YES since the voltage desired is about double of the original, while the corresponding AWG size of the copper magnet wire will be smaller to maintain the KVA rated capacity of the device!

The BH characteristics of the core ued is another factor that needs considerations, since efficiency of the device may be affected...in the power conversion processes! It is one of the main factor in determining the proper turn per volt ratio in the design of that device!

Similar to the earlier advice given, it is NOT advisable to rewind! Given that you have to asked this question, led me to believe that you do not have or lacked the expertise needed to safely implement your plan!

Possibly, but may introduce many possible problems (such as clearances, de-rating, etc).

Talk with a professional transformer rewinding company as they should be of help and hopefully advise if it is possible or not in your particular application. It may not even be economically viable compared to purchasing a new transformer.

Do NOT attempt this by yourself or let someone who isn't properly trained rewind the transformer.

A possible cheaper and quicker to fiinalise alternative would be to add an aproximately 2:1 step down transformer, up front, to bring the higher voltage down to the requirements of the original transformer....

Never touch a running machine!

What say the experts here?