Electrical degradation of 15 kv composite insulator under accelerated aging conditions

The paper presents the experimental results on a 15kV composite insulator for outdoor functioning on distribution systems. An Aging study is performed on 15 kV polymeric insulators using a rotating wheel dip test according to the ANSI C29.13-2000 standard for distribution dead-end type polymer insulators. Based on the test analysis, the performance of the aged composite polymer insulators is evaluated and compared with a new composite polymer insulator as reference at macroscopic and microscopic levels. The evaluation of the insulators was done by tracking and erosion test under accelerated aging test conditions. A steep front impulse test and power frequency voltage test is next for analyzing the insulator design technological faults and dielectric strength. The accelerated aging performed on the insulators shows the changing properties of polymer compounds at electrical and chemical levels. The primary aim of the work is to know the interrelation between surface conditions for the tracking, erosion and puncture of the housing and sheds of polymeric insulators.