Friday 17 February 2017

Silica Gel Breathers for Safe Moisture Removal From Transformer Systems

What are Silica Gel Breathers?

Silica Gel Breathers are mainly used in the transformer sector, where maintaining optimum moisture levels is of utmost importance. That is why the transformer industry makes such wide use of Silica Gel Breathers as not only do they remove moisture molecules, but it is done in the most efficient and economic manner possible. When the transformers start functioning, the Silica Gel Breathers start their work by ensuring that no extra moisture molecules are present in the transformer so that it can function properly.

Talking about Silica Gel Breathers, this desiccant is usually manufactured from the best quality Blue and Orange Silica Gel as these two varieties are the most widely used in the transformer moisture removal process. Silica Gel Breathers (Orange and Blue) are mainly available in two varieties namely Clear View Type and Aluminum Type. Both these types of Silica Gel Breathers are equally capable of removing all moisture molecules in and around the transformers.

Functioning of Silica Gel Breathers Explained

Now that we have understood what are Silica Gel Breathers and their different types, it is time to understand how they function. This is explained in detail below. There are two uses of Silica Gel Breathers in the Transformer sector. One, removal of moisture molecules and the second, keep away all dust particles from the transformer as these can drastically affect the smooth functioning of transformers. Dust particles are known to bring many properly functioning transformers to a grinding halt.

The Silica Gel Breathers are manufactured as transparent hollow cylinder tubes, containing the chemically pure silicium salt or Silica Gel. This Silica Gel also comes attached with a cobalt indicator. Generally, this type of Silica Gel is known as the “indicating grade” of Silica Gel. When placed along side the transformers, these Silica Gel Breathers will successfully remove all the moisture surrounding the transformers.

When the Silica Gel crystals are absorbing the moisture, they are known to change colors. Different crystals will show different color changes. The deep blue Silica Gel will go completely dry while the light blue Silica Gel breather will retain some moisture even after the absorption process is over. In case of the pink Silica Gel crystals, they will be completely saturated with moisture once the entire process is finished. The pink crystals are known to retain absorbed moisture for nearly 30-40% of their own weight. This is one of the main reasons why Silica Gel is preferred as desiccants in the transformer industry as most of its weight can be held as moisture. Thus more moisture can be absorbed from the surroundings.

Extra care and precaution must be taken for the smooth functioning of Silica Gel Breathers in the transformer sector. This is done by the proper dehumidification of the Silica Gel crystals and removing dust particles from the air. Both these steps will ensure that the functioning of the Silica Gel breathers are not affected. Dehumidification is done by by heating the crystals in a ventilated oven at to 150 C. This is done till the color becomes blue again. The dust particles are removed by filtering the oil present in the oil cup.


For top quality Silica Gel Breathers, contact one of the best Silica Gel Breather suppliers in the country, Sorbead India. 

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