Ramirez I.
Instituto de Investigaciones Eléctricas, MX
Keywords: filler, nano-composites, tracking
Since some years ago, polymer compositions have been used for outdoor electrical insulation applications as an alternative to inorganic materials such as porcelain and glass. The organic compositions are based on silicone rubber (SiR) and fillers. Various micro fillers such as alumina trihydrate and various silicas, natural and synthetic are used to improve erosion and tracking resistance under dry band arcing to these composites, when they are used for outdoor electrical insulation. This paper discusses the benefit of the addition of inorganic nano fillers into silicone composites. Two types of micro fillers were used in this study; ATH and micro silica. Also synthetic nano filler (nano fumed silica) was used to reinforce these SiR composites. In order to evaluate the tracking and erosion resistance of the micro-nano filled composites, the inclined plane test, according to ASTM D2303, was used. The results of the tests indicate that nano fumed silica imparts better tracking resistance to SiR than only silica micro filler. Several insulators were manufactured and installed on distribution lines. The benefits for the energy companies can be a saving in periodical preventive maintenance in the outdoor insulation of energy lines.
Journal: TechConnect Briefs
Volume: 1, Advanced Materials: TechConnect Briefs 2015
Published: June 14, 2015
Pages: 392 - 395
Industry sector: Advanced Materials & Manufacturing
Topic: Composite Materials
ISBN: 978-1-4987-4727-1