Shell Oil Products Launches Fire-Resistant Electrical Insulating Oil

20-Jun-2002
HOUSTON, June 18, 2000. Shell Oil Products US announced today the introduction of a petroleum-based, fire-resistant electrical insulating oil that improves fire and explosion safety in transformers and similar equipment commonly found in industrial and commercial operations. Shell Diala HFX offers the performance of conventional mineral transformer oils plus the added benefit of fire-resistance with higher fire (flash) points as per American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) standards. In the US there are approximately 50 million transformers in use. Each year transformer fires are the cause of more than 1200 non-residential structure fires. In addition to property damage and potential injury, transformer fires and explosions can release dangerous toxins into the air. Shell Diala HFX will deliver maximum benefits when used in transformers that are located near schools, hospitals, and residential areas or inside those same facilities. Shell Diala HFX resists ignition by electrical arc or flame and maintains excellent electrical characteristics, thus providing an economical way to provide fire resistance to any power equipment that uses mineral oil. It's a cost effective method to improve fire safety in transformers and switchgear while providing outstanding electrical oil properties that drive reduced operating costs and extended service life. Shell Diala HFX is biodegradable, non-toxic, and non-hazardous. It is manufactured from specially selected and processed oils and is fully compatible with mineral transformer oil and normal equipment construction materials. Shell Diala HFX is processed, handled, maintained, and tested in the same way as conventional mineral oils. "It's important to include a product with this type of safety potential and environmental compatibility in the Shell Diala electrical oil global portfolio," said Ted Zentek, industrial sector manager. "Our customers have demonstrated a strong demand for a product that improves fire safety in electrical equipment without sacrificing any desirable electrical characteristics. Shell Diala HFX is based on proven product technology with over 25 years operating experience in transformers all over the world."

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