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Time:2025-08-05 13:35:54 Reading volume:
A transformer oil dehydration system is a device specifically designed to remove moisture from transformer oil. Its core function is to restore and maintain the oil's insulation properties, ensuring safe and stable transformer operation. The following is an analysis of its specific functions and their importance:
- Removing Free and Dissolved Water:
Free water (visible to the naked eye) and trace dissolved water (ppm level) in the oil are separated by physical or chemical methods to prevent moisture from reducing the oil's dielectric strength.
- Preventing Insulation Failure:
Moisture can significantly reduce the breakdown voltage (dielectric strength) of transformer oil (for example, an increase in water content from 10 ppm to 50 ppm can reduce the breakdown voltage by more than 50%). A dehydration system can restore this value to the standard value (typically ≤30 ppm).
- Preventing Corrosion of Metal Components:
Moisture accelerates oxidation and corrosion of metal components within the transformer, such as the core and windings. A dehydration system can extend the life of the equipment. - Sludge Inhibition:
Water reacts with acidic substances in oil to form sludge, which can clog cooling channels. Dehydration reduces this risk.
- Blocking Hydrolysis:
Water accelerates the consumption of oil additives (such as antioxidants) and promotes the formation of acidic substances (increasing the total acid value). A dehydration system can delay oil degradation.
- Reduced Thermal Cracking Risk:
Water decomposes at high temperatures to produce hydrogen, increasing the concentration of combustible gases inside the transformer (such as excessive H₂). Dehydration reduces the potential for failure.
- New Oil Treatment:
New oil may absorb moisture during transportation or storage. A dehydration system ensures that the oil is dry (moisture content ≤ 10 ppm) before injection into the transformer.
- In-Service Maintenance:
Transformer respiration or seal aging can cause the oil to become damp. Regular dehydration maintains stable oil quality. - Post-Fault Repair:
After a water ingress incident in a transformer (e.g., a ruptured bushing), the dehydration system is a key step in oil regeneration.
Importance
- Safety Bottom Line: Moisture is the number one killer of transformer oil insulation performance. The dehydration system directly prevents short circuits or explosions caused by insulation degradation.
- Cost-Effectiveness: The cost of a single dehydration operation is significantly lower than replacing transformer oil or repairing internal faults.
- Environmental Compliance: Reduces waste oil generation and complies with environmental regulations (e.g., IEC 60422).
Precautions
- Temperature Control: The heating temperature must be strictly limited (typically <65°C) to prevent oil oxidation.
- Real-Time Monitoring: Water content must be monitored online during the dehydration process (e.g., using the Karl Fischer method).
- System Sealability: Leaks during vacuum dehydration can significantly reduce efficiency.
Transformer oil dehydration systems are not only maintenance equipment but also a crucial component of preventive maintenance for power systems. Their role is directly related to the operational reliability and lifespan of transformers.