Founded as a dry-type transformer specialist, Trafo Power Solutions says it has expanded its offerings to provide a range of electrical power solutions in Africa.

The company notes its growth in the field of integrated modular substations for mining and other sectors. The installations are particularly suited to mining operations which are often in remote locations, where building a traditional brick-and-mortar substation on site can be complex and time consuming. In contrast, modular substations or e-houses can be constructed and tested in a specialised workshop and then shipped to site.

“Our dry-type transformers are ideally suited for these installations, as their high safety rating allows them to be integrated into the substation structure during assembly,” says Trafo Power Solutions MD David Claassen. “In contrast, conventional oil-cooled transformers carry a higher safety risk, so must usually be located separately; they also need protective infrastructure to ensure that any oil leakage does not cause environmental contamination.”

The company says its ability to design and supply entire modular substations has proven popular with customers throughout Africa. It highlights a recent order for a skid-mounted solution undertaken for a mining customer in Australia, which was completed in a short time frame and at a competitive cost.

The company aims to grow its range of electrical power solutions to meet the needs of end-users, engineering, procurement and construction firms and electrical consultants.

“We see engineering capability as the heart of our business, and so we focus on value addition in our customer relationships,” says Claassen. “We are also strengthening our footprint across Africa to be closer to customers, developing links with specialist in-country partners as we develop and apply high value solutions.”