Transformer Smoker

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southpaw10

Newbie
Original poster
Mar 19, 2014
4
10
I have seen a picture long time ago of a 3 phase pad mount transformer set up as a smoker. I am getting more and more into smoking I have considered taking on the challenge myself. Just wondering if anyone else has seen something like this or have any tips for setting it up! I am a lineman so that is why this has intrigued me to much.

Some generic pictures for reference in case someone might not know what I am talking about.


Inside the doors where I would put racks


Backside view. Here is the oil tank. I was thinking of making this where I would put the fuel source...wood, charcoal or whatever I decide.

Obviously they come in all different shapes and sizes so I can get whatever would work the best. And I have never even thought about this before so any help would be greatly appreciated!
 
I have no clue about the build, but I do know that some of the oils in transformers can have some nasty stuff in them.

Older ones had poly chlorinated biphenyl based oil in them, and that is highly toxic. Others had some oil stabilizers that have suspected carcinogens in them.

Newer models have mineral oil in them, but I'd still be wary and have it tested since some transformers had the PCB oil drained and were refilled with more "friendly" oils...

Some will say you can burn it out and it'll be fine, that's not always the case. Some oil stabilizers for high temp, can leave a residual amount of nasty imbedded in the steel.

Just my thoughts, and my day job...

Charlie
CSP, CIH, CHMM
 
Yes I have thought about that...I would be sure to get a non-PCB tested tub. And yes I know that means there could still be some. And that is what I was wondering about. If burning/cleaning would get taken care of.
 
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