WAUKESHA, Wis., Sept. 13 /PRNewswire/ -- To facilitate the rebuilding of electrical infrastructure in areas impacted by Hurricane Katrina, Cooper Power Systems reported today that it has increased production of all transformers, in particular Envirotran(TM) EF transformers, to meet anticipated high demand. Envirotran EF transformers are filled with Envirotemp(R) FR3(TM) fluid, a bio- based transformer oil made from soybeans that can minimize the potentially damaging impact of hazardous material in hurricane-vulnerable areas.

Cooper Power Systems is giving priority to the new orders associated with the Katrina rebuild effort. "This is a time when we all need to take steps to assist in the recovery of the Gulf region," said Henry Hecker, director, Transformer Products, Cooper Power Systems. "Cooper Power Systems is reserving production and product planning space to specifically meet the needs of those utilities involved in rebuilding the affected areas. By supplying transformers filled with FR3 fluid, we can assist the utilities to rebuild their system in a manner that is friendlier to the environment."

Envirotemp FR3 fluid would not detrimentally contribute to the mix of chemicals spilled during natural catastrophes such as Hurricane Katrina. In addition, the high fire point of FR3 fluid greatly reduces the likelihood of a fire occurring in association with a failed transformer. There have been no recorded fires from Envirotemp FR3 fluid, the fluid used in Envirotran EF transformers.

Petroleum is the base fluid for traditional mineral oil-based transformers, which represent the majority of transformers damaged or destroyed in the states affected by Hurricane Katrina. Reports indicate that Hurricane Katrina knocked out 90% of the petroleum production in the Gulf region and a significant portion of the nation's refining capacity. Even a partial conversion by utilities to the use of bio-based oil in transformers will reduce demand for petroleum, not only at times when supply is tight, but also on an ongoing basis.

Envirotemp FR3 fluid is a renewable energy source that's grown domestically and lessens the country's dependence on foreign oil. Manufactured from edible seed oils, FR3 fluid meets the Environmental Protection Agency's "Ultimate Biodegradability" classification, permitting alternative spill response procedures such as natural bio-remediation. Both Factory Mutual approved and an Underwriters Laboratories classified less- flammable fluid, it has the highest flash/fire points in the industry.

As an additional benefit, FR3 fluid extends transformer paper insulation life five to eight times. The increased insulation life translates to extended and enhanced transformer life, and the ability to carry higher loads during peak demand periods without leading to premature insulation failure. The enhanced performance allows utilities to manage their assets more profitably and forestall costly capital expenditures.

Company Information

Cooper Power Systems, Inc. is a subsidiary of Cooper Industries, Ltd. , a diversified worldwide manufacturer of products for the electrical, commercial and industrial markets. Cooper Power Systems manufactures distribution transformers, distribution switchgear, reclosers, capacitors, protective relays, voltage regulators, automated switches, cable accessories, surge arrestors, transformer components and dielectric fluids, fuses and tools and it provides engineering services for the electrical and industrial markets. For more information, go to http://www.cooperpower.com/ or call 1-877-CPS-INFO.

CONTACT: John Pepper, +1-412-394-6603, for Cooper Power Systems, Inc.

Web site: http://www.cooperpower.com/