The development of elastomeric insulating materials for use under extreme service conditions

Insulation must function satisfactorily as part of a complex system. There is an increased need for insulation to perform satisfactorily after it has been subjected to high temperatures followed by a period of exposure in an aggressive environment. In engineering use in addition to the importance of flame retardance, the elastomers have to be able to withstand shock and vibration. Smoke density and toxicity are also important. This paper deals with some of the parameters that need to be investigated to develop a composite insulation. Using the technique of thermal imaging, an explanation of the thermal degradation of two elastomers is given and the means of measuring degradation is indicated