Transformers are at the heart of power systems, converting electrical energy between voltage levels for efficient transmission and distribution. But for the system to work, transformer stations also carry a lot of oil for cooling and insulation. This means that a small accident can quickly escalate into a major fire.
Transformer bunds must therefore perform two critical functions simultaneously:
This is where our low-hole-density gratings can be an important part of your fire protection system, as they help control the fire around the transformer before it escalates. By combining rapid drainage with restricted airflow, LHD® provides a highly effective passive fire protection solution for oil-filled transformer installations, draining up to 600 litres of oil per m² per minute while limiting the oxygen available to sustain combustion.
Protection of oil-filled transformers in transmission and distribution networks.
Fire suppression and oil containment for critical power infrastructure.
Supporting HVDC and offshore wind grid connection projects.
Protection of transformers and associated electrical infrastructure.
Substations, transformer compounds and grid connection assets.
Protection of high-voltage transformers supplying critical facilities.
LHD® gratings are engineered to suppress transformer oil fires.
If oil leaks onto the grating, the round openings allow it to drain quickly into the containment bund below. This reduces the amount of combustible oil left around the transformer.
At the same time, the low-hole-density design limits the open area to 5%. By restricting the airflow through the grating, less oxygen reaches the fire, helping to reduce combustion and limit the spread of flames.
What this means for your installation:
LHD® gratings require very little maintenance while offering an excellent strength-to-weight ratio, R11 slip resistance and straightforward installation and replacement.
The design provides clear access for routine inspection of bunds and drainage systems, with better visibility than traditional stone-filled solutions.
Available in steel, stainless steel and aluminium, the gratings are made from 100% recyclable materials and can be supplied with galvanised coatings up to 100 μm for more demanding environments.
When correctly specified and maintained, LHD® delivers reliable performance for decades, including in coastal, industrial and high-exposure locations.
The grating has been tested by RISE Research Institutes of Sweden. View the test report here, or watch the video from the test to see how the system performs in practice.
Technical details, test results, design standards, and compliance can all be found in our LHD brochure.
Click here to view, or click the button below to download.
Every transformer installation presents unique challenges. Our engineers can help design a compliant, cost-effective LHD® solution tailored to transformer oil volumes, load requirements, environmental conditions and project-specific safety criteria.
Contact us to discuss your transformer station, substation or critical infrastructure project.
