Is Bottom Feeding Transformers Still Okay?

Status
Not open for further replies.
K

krist003

Member
Location
USA
I overheard someone saying that transformers can't be bottom fed anymore. Something about rodent access. The most recent transformer submittal that I have seen shows a window that can be used to bottom feed. Is there a new code preventing this? Would this be a manufacturer requirement or code requirement?
 
krist003 said:
I overheard someone saying that transformers can't be bottom fed anymore. Something about rodent access. The most recent transformer submittal that I have seen shows a window that can be used to bottom feed. Is there a new code preventing this? Would this be a manufacturer requirement or code requirement?
Click to expand...

I have seen some transformers that came with instructions showing where you should bring in the conduits. I have no idea why. I have only seen it a few times (maybe only once). I don't know if it is mandatory or just a suggestion. It was conveneint for us to follow the guidelines in the instructions so that is what we did without really thinking much more about it.
 
I would understand if this was a manufacturing thing and perhaps certain special transformers do not have a provision for bottom feed for whatever reason, but I was a little taken back when someone suggested that you can no longer bottom feed transformers at all. I doubt that is the case, but when I hear things like this I like to get the full scoop.
 
krist003 said:
I would understand if this was a manufacturing thing and perhaps certain special transformers do not have a provision for bottom feed for whatever reason, but I was a little taken back when someone suggested that you can no longer bottom feed transformers at all. I doubt that is the case, but when I hear things like this I like to get the full scoop.
Click to expand...

you should ask whomever it was you heard it from why he thinks this.
 
If rodent access is the issue - typical dry type transformers usually don't have an open bottom, some have ventilation openings in the bottom, but small enough they are not a rodent access issue. Your conductors will enter via raceway/cable fittings - still not a rodent issue if done properly.

Pad mount type transformers typically have open bottom design and conductors don't enter via a "bottom wall" But rodent access is an issue with those even if you don't bring conductors into the bottom - cause it is open anyway.

Ask a rural POCO guy about opening a padmount and finding not only rodents but other animals like skunks, raccoons, snakes, etc. getting into such transformer wiring cabinets from time to time when a burrowing critter happens to burrow into the space under the transformer. Skunks won't burrow but will invade an existing burrow dug by some other critter.
 
I agree with your reasoning. I wish I would have asked where he got this info from, but didn't think much of it at the time. Glad to hear I am not missing out on some commonly known issue.
 
Status
Not open for further replies.
Top