Load break switching in silicone transformer fluid

Oil-immersed loadbreak switches are frequently used in padmount type transformers to provide a disconnect. The desire to use silicone transformer fluid in such transformers to take advantage of its fire safety properties led to an investigation of high level arcing in silicone through the use of a particular switch commonly used in padmount transformers. The mechanical, chemical, and electrical evaluation performed are described, and general background on the application is given