Vacuum Pressure Impregnation: VPI vs.

VPE
A common transformer construction method is Vacuum Pressure
Impregnation, usually referred to as VPI. Another insulation term is
VPE which can have two meanings, most commonly Vacuum
Pressure Epoxy. VPE can also mean Vacuum Pressure
Encapsulation. To better clarify this discussion, VPE Epoxy will be
referred to as VPE x  and VPE Encapsulation will be referred to
as VPE n .
Impregnation verses Encapsulation: Encapsulation typically refers
to a thicker coating of insulation than is provided by impregnation.
There is no industry specific definition of either impregnation or
encapsulation. These terms are left to the manufacturer to define.
Typically epoxy resins have a higher viscosity than the polyester
resins usually used in VPI designs. Therefore a transformer which
has undergone a VPI process with an epoxy resin will have a thicker
insulation coating and may be considered to be both  VPE x  and VPE n .
A transformer which undergoes several VPI cycles with a polyester
resin may also be considered VPE n  because the thicker coating
“encapsulates” the windings.
The question of “is VPI, VPE x  or VPE n  the best choice” is difficult to
answer.
 The quality of the VPI, VPE x  or VPE n  processes can vary widely
between manufacturers. 
 The epoxy and its properties used in the  VPE x  process can
vary widely between manufacturers.  Blanket statements and
comparisons with the epoxy can’t be accurately made. 
 The thickness and quality of VPE n  insulation application can
also vary. 
 To add additional issues with comparing VPI, VPE x  or VPE n , a
manufacturer would also have to compare these technologies
with cast coil technology. 
o Cast coil technology and systems also vary substantially
between U.L. and IEC approved designs.