Surface dielectric behavior of polymeric insulation under HV outdoor conditions

The authors present a review of surface dielectric behavior of several polymers under high-voltage (HV) outdoor conditions. The scope is limited to materials used to provide weathersheds on non-ceramic insulators and room-temperature vulcanized silicone rubber coating used on ceramic insulators for combating problems related to insulator contamination. The development of arc resistant polymeric compounds is discussed. The discovery and evaluation of water repellent characteristics of solid polymer surfaces are addressed. Key issues regarding dielectric properties that relate to outdoor insulator performance are considered, and developments contributing to the fundamental understanding of some of these issues are discussed.>