How do you process and handle used transformer ester fluids?

ANSWER:

Depending on their condition, Midel fluids can be reprocessed and reclaimed using similar equipment and methods to mineral oil.

• High moisture content: vacuum filtration or treatment with absorbents such as zeolites

• High acid value: treatment with Fuller’s Earth or similar absorbent material

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In common with all natural ester liquids, if the viscosity of MIDEL eN 1204 has increased by more than 20% from the starting value then it cannot be reclaimed and should be sent for disposal – either through recycling or incineration for heat recovery.

Used MIDEL eN 1204 can be fed into recycling streams for other used vegetable oils, to produce products such as biodiesel, oils, lubricants and soaps.

Used MIDEL 7131 which cannot be reclaimed for transformer use can be utilised as a lubricant additive to mineral oil base stocks.

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MORE READING

Read more on the benefits of alternative fluids such as ester for fire safety, the environment and moisture tolerance.

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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:

1. Miscibility: Which transformer oils are compatible with Midel ester fluids for retrofilling?

2. Free-breathing: Can I use Midel fluids in breathing transformers?

3. Insulation Regeneration: Will Midel fluids heal existing problems in a transformer?

4. Fire Safety: Which dielectric fluids classifications are important to understanding fire safety?

5. Cold Weather: How do Midel fluids perform in the cold?

6. Moisture: What happens to the performance of Midel fluids when they absorb moisture?

7. Acid Levels: If Midel fluids have high acid levels, how do I recondition my fluid?

8. DGA: How can I use dissolved gas analysis on Midel fluids?

9. Power Factor: What is the Power Factor of Midel fluids?

10. Materials Compatibility: Are Midel fluids compatible with all transformer materials?

11. HV Applications: Can I use Midel fluids to retrofill transformers at high voltages?

12. Interfacial Tension: Is interfacial tension a meaningful property for Midel fluids?

13. Reusability: How are used Midel ester fluids processed and handled?

14. De-rating: Will there will be any derating of a transformer by changing it from mineral oil to a Midel ester fluid?

15. Retrofill Process: Are there extra requirements or steps when retrofilling transformers with Midel fluids?

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Retrofilling transformers with ester fluids

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