Transformer Breather

Transformer Breather:

A transformer breather is a device used to maintain the desired level of air moisture inside a transformer's conservator tank. The conservator tank is a part of a transformer that provides space for the expansion and contraction of insulating oil as the temperature changes.


The transformer breather consists of two main components: a silica gel desiccant and an air filter. Here's how it works:


1. Silica Gel Desiccant: The silica gel is a moisture-absorbing material placed inside the breather. It helps to keep the air inside the conservator tank dry by adsorbing moisture from the incoming air.


2. Air Filter: The air filter is positioned between the transformer and the silica gel. It prevents dust, particles, and other contaminants from entering the transformer along with the air.


When the transformer operates, the oil in the conservator tank expands or contracts due to temperature changes. As a result, the air volume in the conservator tank also changes. The breather allows air to enter or exit the conservator tank to maintain a constant pressure.


Transformer Breather works:


1. During cooling: As the oil cools down and contracts, it creates a partial vacuum inside the conservator tank. The vacuum pulls air from the breather through the silica gel desiccant. The desiccant removes moisture from the incoming air before it enters the conservator tank.


2. During heating: When the oil heats up and expands, it creates excess pressure inside the conservator tank. The excess pressure forces the air to exit the conservator tank through the breather. The air passes through the silica gel desiccant, which further dries the air, and then exits through the air filter.


By using a transformer breather, the moisture level inside the conservator tank is controlled, preventing the accumulation of moisture in the transformer oil. Excessive moisture in the transformer can lead to degradation of the oil's insulating properties and the formation of sludge or other contaminants, which can affect the transformer's performance and lifespan.


Regular maintenance of the transformer breather is necessary to ensure its proper functioning. This includes periodically replacing the silica gel desiccant when it becomes saturated with moisture and cleaning or replacing the air filter to maintain proper airflow and filtration.

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