Silica Gel for Bannatyne Bagpipe Moisture Control

Drying the Silica Gels:

Over time and usage, the silica gel beads in your Bannatyne CMCS Bagpipe Moisture Control System will absorb moisture, causing them to change color from orange to blue. The change in color from orange to blue after use is indeed normal and indicates that the beads have absorbed moisture as intended. However, if the beads remain blue even after attempting to dry them, it's likely because they are not fully dry. Silica gel beads have a capacity to absorb moisture from the air, and depending on factors such as location and air humidity, they may retain some moisture even after being exposed to heat or sunlight. This is why they remain blue.

In the UK, the average humidity inside homes should be around the 50-55% range and slightly lower in winter months. Maintaining a humidity target of 40% in the winter helps prevent condensation on windows. Silica gel will absorb moisture until it reaches equilibrium with the ambient humidity. At this point, the gel will be approximately 50-55% saturated with moisture, and its effectiveness in absorbing additional moisture will decrease. However, even at lower effectiveness levels, silica gel can still provide some level of moisture control.

To ensure the gels are thoroughly dried, I recommend oven-drying them. Spread them out on an oven tray and air dry them in the oven at a very low temperature, no higher than 50 degrees Celsius, for approximately 20 minutes. This should restore them to their original orange color, indicating they are fully dry and ready for optimal moisture absorption. After drying, it's advisable to store them in an air-sealed zipper bag to prevent them from reabsorbing moisture from the air.