Manufacturing In A Safer Environment

Tips For Disposing Of A Transformer That Has PCBs

1 April 2021 by Enrique Griffin

If your company works with transformers, then there will probably be times when you will need to dispose of some of those transformers. It's always important to handle and dispose of transformers properly, but this is even more important with certain types of transformers, such as those that include polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). If you have a PCB transformer, then you might need to know the tips below so that you can dispose of it in the proper manner.

Determine If Your Transformer Has PCBs

First of all, before you determine which method will need to be used to dispose of your old transformer, you will need to determine whether or not the transformer includes PCBs. Since PCBs are no longer manufactured, newer transformers will not have PCBs in them. If you are unsure of whether or not the transformer that you are dealing with has PCBs present, take a look at the nameplate on your transformer. It should list the type of cooling liquid that is used inside of the transformer, and it might even note that PCBs are present. If you don't recognize the name of the cooling liquid that you find when looking at the nameplate, then you should do your research about it to find out if it's a PCB.

Get Rid of the Transformer as Soon as You Can

Transformers that include PCBs can be dangerous and hazardous for the environment. Therefore, if you have a transformer that has PCBs, you will probably want to get rid of it as soon as you can if you are focused on safety and on owning and operating transformers in an environmentally friendly manner. If you haven't already started thinking about doing so, now is a good time to start looking for a good replacement transformer and to start looking for an option for disposing of the transformer so that you don't have to worry about it posing a danger for anyone or the environment anymore.

Ensure the Transformer Is Handled and Transported Properly

You shouldn't just be focused on how your PCB transformer is disposed of; you should also pay attention to how it's transported and handled before it is disposed of. After all, the dangerous chemicals inside of the transformer could leak out if you aren't careful about proper handling.

Have It Disposed of By the Appropriate Disposal Service

Lastly, it's important to be sure that the transformer is disposed of by a PCB transformer disposal service. They will know about the safest and legal ways of getting rid of one of these transformers.

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