Test methods and application considerations for evaluation of silicone RTV coatings in the mitigation of wildlife-induced flashovers

Voltage breakdown strength of room temperature vulcanized (RTV) coatings used in the prevention of wildlife-induced outages in utility electrical systems were evaluated. Various standard electrode shapes and configurations were studied. In addition, to gain insight into the effects of field-application conditions on the breakdown strength, sample preparation included coating application methods common in laboratories as well as methods commonly used in the field. A discussion of the practical aspects of the results identifies engineering considerations that can lead to more effective protection from wildlife-induced outages in the field