Can Midel ester fluids heal existing insulation problems in a transformer?
ANSWER:
No. MIDEL fluids cannot “regenerate” insulation materials.
Degradation of the solid cellulose insulation in transformers (insulation ageing) is irreversible. Thermal ageing of cellulose materials cannot be avoided – however it can be slowed.
Retrofilling transformers with MIDEL fluids, can have a positive impact on the issue of paper ageing, delivering:
Longer life for cellulose insulation at standard temperatures
The option to run transformers at a higher temperature for standard lifetime
The benefit of a higher power output or a smaller footprint by running transformers hotter
Using MIDEL ester transformer fluids can potentially extend the life of cellulose insulated transformers. Alternatively, transformers can be operated at a higher temperature with MIDEL fluids, while retaining the same lifetime they would have had with mineral oil at standard temperature.
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More questions on ester fluids?
This post is one of the 15 top questions we get asked on retrofilling transformers with ester fluids. Here is the full list of the frequently asked questions on ester fluid retrofilling:
Miscibility: Which transformer oils are compatible with Midel ester fluids for retrofilling?
Free-breathing: Can I use Midel fluids in breathing transformers?
Insulation Regeneration: Will Midel fluids heal existing problems in a transformer?
Fire Safety: Which dielectric fluids classifications are important to understanding fire safety?
Moisture: What happens to the performance of Midel fluids when they absorb moisture?
Acid Levels: If Midel fluids have high acid levels, how do I recondition my fluid?
Materials Compatibility: Are Midel fluids compatible with all transformer materials?
HV Applications: Can I use Midel fluids to retrofill transformers at high voltages?
Interfacial Tension: Is interfacial tension a meaningful property for Midel fluids?
Reusability: How are used Midel ester fluids processed and handled?