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In today’s power grids, driven by fluctuating renewable generation, dynamic load patterns, and increasing reliability requirements, grid operators are seeking OLTC solutions that integrate state-of-the-art technology (e.g. reverse power flow), technical robustness, digital readiness, and long-term cost efficiency without maintenance effort.
VACUTAP® VBO® delivers exactly that: a bolt-on tap-changer designed for transformers up to 40 kV, bringing MR’s proven maintenance-free vacuum technology to the resistor-type bolt-on segment.
This solution fills a longstanding portfolio gap in markets where bolt-on resistor OLTCs are used – for example the UK, where VBO has already achieved success since its market introduction.
A New Standard in Vacuum Bolt-On Technology
VBO® leverages over 30 years of MR vacuum technology expertise – built on more than 100,000 vacuum OLTCs delivered worldwide – to create a compact resistor-type bolt-on OLTC, with a suite of industry-leading benefits. It enables maintenance-free switching even at high operation counts, thanks to advanced vacuum technology. The solution is well suited for high-frequency hot oil switching environments and offers a maintenance-free rating of up to 300,000 operations, as well as lifelong maintenance-free performance for grid applications. Its leading vacuum arc-extinguishing technology eliminates oil contamination risks entirely, removing the need for oil filters and insulating oil replacement. The design delivers exceptional reliability even under unpredictable switching direction changes and reverse power flow, making it ideal for new energy scenarios by ensuring stable operation during sudden power flow reversals In terms of design flexibility, VBO® supports both horizontal and vertical OLTC mounting ; the drive unit can be compactly mounted on the OLTC cover or flexibly installed around the transformer with cable connections of up to 20 meters. Additionally, it features ETOS®-based monitoring, enabling condition-based asset management for optimised operational efficiency.
The innovative direct drive replaces mechanical shaft linkages and spring-storage mechanisms, reducing mechanical wear. The drive is mounted directly to the tap-changer and connected to ETOS® ID solely via cables, allowing the ETOS® ID unit to be freely positioned around the transformer. This simplifies installation and improves overall reliability.
