Ordering transformer radiators: dimensions, connections and inspection

Separate cooling design from fabrication scope

A transformer radiator forms part of the transformer cooling arrangement. The enquiry should identify whether the supplier is fabricating an approved design or is also expected to provide design work. Do not assume those are the same service.

For manufacture to drawing, provide the radiator configuration and the design information called for by the responsible transformer engineer. Identify panel or tube construction, the quantity per transformer and whether all units are identical. Do not select a replacement solely from transformer kVA or MVA, or from a photograph of the old radiator.

Check connections before releasing the order

Overall height and width are only part of a radiator drawing. Specify the distance between connection centres, flange dimensions, bolt pattern, connection orientation and header arrangement. Include the mating tank drawing when an interface is shared across suppliers.

Record the reference faces and dimensional tolerances used to inspect the connections. Identify valves, gaskets and fasteners as included, excluded or supplied by the customer. If several radiator variants are needed, give each one its own drawing reference and quantity instead of relying on verbal descriptions.

Prepare a replacement enquiry carefully

For replacement work, start with the original approved drawing and available equipment records. Where drawings are missing, arrange for the responsible engineering team to verify the required dimensions and specification. Photographs can explain the layout but should supplement, rather than replace, controlled measurements.

Identify any proposed changes in material, construction, connection arrangement or coating. Have those changes reviewed before procurement. A new unit should not be treated as interchangeable simply because its outside dimensions appear similar.

• Radiator drawing number and revision
• Configuration, dimensions and quantity
• Top and bottom connection details
• Material and coating specification
• Leakage test requirements and inspection records
• Packing, protected openings and dispatch destination

Include inspection, finish and transport in the quote

Agree the leakage test procedure and acceptance criteria in the order documentation. Ask which dimensional and finish checks will be recorded and whether the customer needs to witness an inspection. Test conditions should follow the approved specification, not an assumed universal value.

Specify the internal and external finish and how connections should be protected during transport. Pankaj Fabricators lists custom transformer radiators in its Jaipur product range. Share the approved drawings and inspection scope to establish the required fabrication work, finish and dispatch arrangements in the quotation.