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Role of indicating silica gel in Transformer Breathers

  • Monday , May 22, 2023

Ever wondered about the working principle of transformer breathers? This article will give you an idea about transformer breathers and much more. Read on.

 

Moisture is evil for almost any substance on this earth. When it comes to the electric transformers the case is not any different. Any moisture content entering the transformer can defile the oil and disrupt the transformer's performance.

Effect of Moisture on the Transformers            

  • Reduction in the dielectric strength of oil
  • Occurrence of discharges due to the deterioration of cellulose insulation
  • Chances of bubble formation
  • Corrosion of the tank due to moisture condensation

 

Moisture insulation plays a major role in the longevity of the transformer tank. For proper insulation, a breather is attached to the tank of the transformer. The insulation liquid present in the tank heats up to rise the liquid level making the air leave the tank. When the liquid oil cools, the level reduces and letting the air enter the transformer. If any moisture is present in this air, then the results may be catastrophic. To avoid this, indicating silica gel crystals are filled inside the breather which adsorbs the moisture content present in the air that enters the transformer.

 

What is the role of indicating silica gel in Transformer Breathers?

 

 

The indicating silica gel crystals are used in transformer breathers to trap the moisture entering the tank. Indicating silica gel crystals for transformers change their color when saturated with moisture letting the maintenance personnel know when to change the silica gel needs to be replaced or regenerated. There are majorly two types of indicating silica gel that is commonly used in transformer breathers. Blue indicates silica gel and orange indicates silica gel. For example, in blue indicating silica gel crystals when dry the color remains blue, and once the moisture saturates them it turns to pink. In the case of orange indicating silica gel, the color of the crystal coverts into green upon saturation. Being carcinogenic in nature, the blue indicating silica gel crystals have been gradually replaced by the orange indicating silica gel in transformer breathers.

 

Here, taking note of the color of these silica gel consistently is required as any discrepancy in that can lead to deterioration of the transformers. The overall efficiency of the transformers is enhanced using smart breathers. There is also no need for any maintenance personnel to stand closely to monitor. Remote monitoring can be done with these breathers.

 

Transformer breathers may require frequent replace of indicating silica gel crystals. The efficiency of conventional breathers can be enhanced by using high-quality indicating silica gel crystal for breathers. This way it will efficiently indicate when the moisture saturates the silica gel thus letting no moisture reach the tank.

Swambe Chemicals is the prime manufacturer and supplier of indicating silica gel breathers for more than two decades now. Our products are of the best quality and highly satisfactory for our clients across the globe. Contact us for more details. 

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