Technical implications of hollow composite insulators for HV SF6 switchgear

The successful operation of large substation and transmission networks is dependent on the integrity of individual items of plant. The minimum requirements for high voltage insulators are that they must satisfy the operational and environmental criteria for the perceived lifetime of the plant. In addition, the insulators must be realistically priced and be intrinsically safe. From the standpoint, a `user´ perspective of hollow composite insulators for pressurized applications in HV SF₆ switchgear is presented. Comparisons are made between porcelain and composite insulators in terms of their respective materials properties relevant to mechanical/electrical performance. In a more general way, some economic aspects are considered, that may influence the wider acceptance and usage of composites for HV SF₆ switchgear applications in the UK