We believe it is useful to draw attention to a standard (which entered into force in March 2014), which marks a very important step for the transformer and insulating oil scene: IEC standard 62701 *. This standard defines the requisites and methods for the collection, treatment and recycling of mineral insulating oils for transformers, switches and other devices which employ mineral oil as an insulator and for the transfer of heat.
IEC standard 62701* stresses the properties of PCBs and DBDS as particularly critical; both must be "not detectable", meaning that the content of PCB in oil must be < 2 mg/>g (measured according to IEC standard 61619) and that of DBDS < 5 mg/>g (measured according to standard 62697-1). Thanks to this standard, the sector of re-refining or regeneration rule will be regulated for the first time. This sector represents a market which so far generated 500,000 tonnes per year of recycled mineral oil and for which demand will undoubtedly grow from both mature and emerging markets. The new regulation represents a new opportunity for owners of electrical equipment and, in fact, creates a parallel market to that for new oils.

* Fluids for electrotechnical applications - Recycled mineral insulating oils for transformers and switchgear