https://www.zerohedge.com/markets/power-companies-face-transformer-shortage-ahead-hurricanes-and-wildfires
@thendrix As much as I hate to say it, the US set itself up for this and it is a lesson that needs to be learned. Some bible thumping senator is always going to be trying to explain away video of him using meth with a male escort. Somehow that is what is given priority.
I can confirm what you said about the transformers. The highest grade is made in Germany and it's priced fairly. A friend of mine works in a supply facility that sells transformers and other electrical grid components.
@thendrix I remember American manufacturing. Some of my tools are American made with American steel. I think I've bought some specialty electronic components that were made in the US.
The grids we have are awful and perhaps it would be better to engineer new grids. I remember having to use suicide cords after shutting off the mains during and after hurricanes. Carbon monoxide poisoning was part of the experience.
What's odd is that the utility companies won't replace the old transformers unless they fail. They do it because it would be expensive and the old transformers were known to last well over 20 years before failure.
The design changed, less cancer and birth defects, and they kinda suck in everything but efficiency and having to deal with pcbs.
