Preservation for power plants and transformers – how to do it
Power plants and transformers are critical infrastructure. And critical infrastructure cannot withstand corrosion. We supply maintenance materials that keep Norwegian power stations in operation – from desiccants and breather filters to VCI packaging and corrugated plastic. Here is an overview of the products we supply to this sector – and why they are the right choices for those responsible for the maintenance and preservation of electrical equipment.
Desiccant for transformers
When a transformer is under load, the oil level inside the tank drops. The air drawn in to replace the void contains moisture – and transformer oil cannot withstand moisture. The result is reduced insulation capacity and a shortened equipment lifespan. The solution is a breather filter filled with self-indicating silica gel, which dries the incoming air before it reaches the oil.
Self-indicating silica gel changes color when saturated – from orange to green. You can see at a glance when it is time for a replacement. Traditional glass bowls with silica beads must be replaced approximately every six months and can be demanding to handle. A simpler alternative is ready-to-use Air Sentry cartridges – the entire filter housing is plastic and can be replaced in seconds. Do you need help dimensioning the correct amount of desiccant? See our silica gel calculator.
For more technical background on moisture and transformer insulation, see CIGRE, the international organization for high-voltage systems and electrical equipment.
VCI – corrosion protection for junction boxes and cabinets
Junction boxes and electrical cabinets in power plants are vulnerable. Many of them are located in humid environments, out in the field, or in stations without daily supervision. Corrosion on contacts and conductors leads to switching faults – and in the worst case, downtime.
Zerust VCI capsules solve this with a technology we have supplied to Norwegian industry for over 20 years. VCI stands for Volatile Corrosion Inhibitor. The capsules emit a gas that settles as an invisible protective layer on all metallic surfaces inside the cabinet. The protection lasts for up to 2 years and disappears without a trace when the cabinet is opened. We have capsules covering everything from 4 liters to 24 m³ – adapted to everything from small junction boxes to large switchboards. See our size guide to choose the right capsule.
Is equipment to be stored pending installation or overhaul? If so, there is a high risk that corrosion will quickly destroy expensive components. 
Pack the equipment in VCI packaging before it is put into storage. Our most popular variant is VCI plastic film – it looks like regular plastic but is impregnated with VCI molecules that actively protect all metal surfaces inside the package. Properly packed equipment remains corrosion-free for many years.
What does the standard say? Preservation of electrical equipment and spare parts is covered by NORSOK Z-006 for the Norwegian oil and gas industry, but the principles apply equally well to the power sector.
FAQ – VCI for power plants:
Can VCI capsules damage electronics?: No, Zerust VCI is tested and documented as safe for electronic components and contacts.
How often must the capsules be replaced?: Depending on the model – 1 or 2 years. The expiration date is printed on the box and marked with a sticker on the cabinet.
What happens when the cabinet is opened?: The protection gradually disappears. If you open the cabinet regularly, the capsules should be replaced at expiration.
Ion exchange resin
Amberlite ion exchange resin for demineralization of process water in power plants
In energy production, ion exchange filters are used to demineralize process water and remove unwanted ions that can damage the plant. We supply, among others, Amberlite IRN150 and Amberlite 4200CL from DuPont Water Solutions – leading products in ion exchange technology for the power industry. Get in touch to discuss the right product and capacity for your plant.
Corrugated plastic – impact protection for cable drums and cylinders
Propaflex CD30 is a corrugated plastic that provides optimal impact protection during handling and storage. It is typically used on cable drums, cylinders, pipes, and shafts. Longitudinal cushions in the corrugation effectively dampen shocks, and the material is robust against UV and mechanical stress. A simple measure that saves expensive equipment from unnecessary damage.
Unsure about what you need? Call us at +47 51 94 47 00 or send an email to post@realmarine.no – and we will find the right solution for your power plant or transformer station.
