Dealing with PCBs in transformers remains a challenge for many operators – technically, legally and logistically. Electrical Oil Services (EOS®) supports clients in removing and replacing PCB-contaminated insulating oil safely and professionally. We spoke with Tom Lowcock, Key Account Manager at Electrical Oil Services (EOS®), about the services available and how companies can meet strict legal requirements with minimal effort and maximum safety.
Tom, you’ve been with EOS® for over a decade. What has kept you in this transformer industry – and what motivates you today?
I’ve been part of EOS® since around 2010. I enjoy the challenges that the industry presents and the close collaboration that is required between ourselves and our clients to ensure projects are delivered on time and to a consistently high standard.
I am passionate about what Electrical Oil Services stands for - we are industry leaders in providing sustainable solutions to transformer oil management. At a time when many of our clients are starting out on their sustainability journey, I am proud to be able to say that EOS® have been leading the way in providing regenerated transformer oil as an alternative to using virgin products for many years.
One of the recent articles looked at PCB-contaminated oil in transformers. What services does EOS® offer with regard to eliminating PCBs?
At EOS®, we offer a complete service package for removing PCB-contaminated transformer oil. That means: We coordinate the collection of oil samples, analyse them for possible PCB content, and if contamination is confirmed, we handle the removal, transport, destruction and refilling – all compliant with legislation and relevant safety regulations. We can supply PCB-free regenerated transformer oil for flushing and refilling the asset to leave remaining PCB levels well within limits. It’s about reducing the burden for our customers and ensuring everything is done correctly, from start to finish.
How important are your services for eliminating PCBs in transformers – for the UK, but also Europe?
Me and our team in the UK have worked with utilities, industrial clients, and contractors across the UK and Ireland. As well as this we are increasingly receiving enquiries from all across Europe. Many companies still don’t know they’re affected, especially those with smaller or older transformers.
In the UK, but also in the EU, legal thresholds apply, and time is running out to act. Under the Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) Regulation (EU) 2019/1021, all remaining PCBs within dielectric equipment in concentrations above 0.005% (50ppm) and in volumes greater than 50 ml must be destroyed or irreversibly transformed by the end of 2025 at the latest. Time is running out, and PCB elimination is a cross-border issue. Our services are designed to support that shift and our customers.
Check out what the European Commission writes about PCBs and its deadline:
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Stay informed with our EOS Trusted Purity Blog!
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Electrical Oil Services also has a PCB removal plant in Stanlow, UK. What can it do?
Our plant in Stanlow is a long-term investment and plays a strategic role in our capability to supply regenerated oils that meet new oil standard. We primarily work with approved partners for incineration of PCB-contaminated oils while we focus on the safe collection, coordination and analysis side.
What would you advise companies that suspect PCBs in their equipment – but hesitate to take action?
Waiting is not a solution. Legal deadlines are clear – and the entire replacement process can take time, especially if many assets are affected. Those who delay risk operational disruption or financial penalties. My advice: have transformer oil samples analysed early. It brings peace of mind – even if it turns out that no action is needed.
So what is the process to eliminate PCBs in transformers? How can companies take the first step?
With our EOS® disposal services, transformer operators no longer need to navigate complex legislation or coordinate multiple contractors. From first contact to final certification, EOS® delivers a turnkey solution that makes eliminating PCBs a lot easier – and safer.
But it is true, not everyone knows what to do. This is why we have outlined the typical steps as a checklist [see below].
Overall, PCB removal is not as complicated as it might look like at the beginning. And we’re happy to support customers every step of the way
Thank you for the interview, Tom Lowcock.
Continue reading here:
- Insulating oil recycler, lab expert, general contractor: Meet Electrical Oil Services (EOS®)!
- Case study insulating oil: Extending service life of transformers
- Electrical Oil Services presents: The EOS® Closed Loop Model
Read an additional interview, it answers the following questions:
- How you as a company can benefit from working closely with EOS®
- Which impulses you can receive and implement in the context of sustainability
- What role EOS® plays in the energy transition
- How EOS® builds trust with notable projects
→ Transformer Expertise: EOS® Interview Cengiz Egeli
✅ Checklist:How to safely remove PCB-contaminated transformer oil with EOS®1. Get in touch – EOS® will talk you through your options and assist you with oil sampling. 2. Oil sample collection – can be performed by EOS® or your site staff. 3. Laboratory analysis – EOS® can test for PCB contamination in your oil. 4. If PCB at levels greater than 50ppm is detected:
5. Destruction certificate – you’ll receive full documentation for compliance and traceability.
💡 Pro tip: EOS®Premium reclaimed transformer oil is PCB-free, making it a sustainable and cost-effective option for this purpose. |
Do you have any questions? We will be happy to answer them.
