High Voltage Transformers are insulated and cooled internally with oil.  If the moisture content of the oil is too high, this can cause catastrophic failures.  Moisture is absorbed into the oil from any air that comes into contact with it.  Moisture contamination is a problem for any fluid reservoir that must “breathe”, i.e., the fluid expands and contracts during use.  This includes transformers, pumps, tanks, turbines, gearboxes etc.  Contaminated fluids lose their desired properties, can cause damage to the fluid system, and may become unstable and hazardous. To prevent this moisture contamination, air coming into contact with the fluid is dehydrated.  The simplest way of removing the moisture in air is with a hygroscopic agent, such as indicating Silica Gel.  This gel will absorb up to 40% of its mass in water, and gradually change colour to show that it is saturated.  Once the gel has been consumed, it can be reprocessed, by drying it out, and reused.

The standard range of Nybro silica Gel breathers are made with a combination of high quality materials including high tensile strength 5083 Aluminium plate, AISI 316L Stainless Steel Tie rods and Protective mesh, Borosilicate Glass Tube, UV resistant Polyvinylchloride (UVPVC) baffles.  An oil bath fitted to the breather prevents the Gel being directly exposed to the atmosphere and saturating prematurely.  The innovative baffle system ensures the even saturation of gel, and prevents any oil contamination of the gel.  All of the components are manufactured to a rigorous 41 point Quality Control checklist, ensuring that every breather supplied is of the highest standard.  The high standard of construction increase corrosion resistance and provides a long service life.