The Profound Impact Of Loss Of Hydrophobicity On Insulator Performance

In power systems, the surface condition of suspension composite insulator directly determines its operational stability. Once the surface hydrophobicity decreases, composite suspension insulator is more likely to form conductive paths in humid environments such as rain and fog, thereby increasing the risk of surface leakage current and partial discharge. This phenomenon can cause the insulation performance of polymer suspension insulator to gradually decline, affecting the long-term reliability of power equipment.

Specific effects of changes in surface hydrophobicity

suspension type insulator materials typically maintain their hydrophobic properties through surface structure and coatings. When the outer surface of composite tension insulator ages or becomes contaminated, a water film is more likely to form on the surface, causing uneven electric field distribution. Localized voltage concentration accelerates material degradation, leading to cracks or arcing. For composite insulators, loss of hydrophobicity can also cause the outer silicone rubber surface to change from a non-conductive state to a locally conductive state, accelerating the aging process.

Environmental Factors and Hydrophobicity Degradation

Humid and hot environments, acid rain, and particulate matter in the air are the main factors affecting the surface hydrophobicity of insulators. Insulators operating in high humidity or heavily polluted areas for extended periods are prone to accumulating dust and salt on their surfaces. These substances absorb moisture and form a conductive layer, reducing the surface insulation strength of the insulator. Regular monitoring of the surface condition can determine if the insulator is at risk of hydrophobic degradation and assess its potential impact on power system operation.

The hydrophobicity of the insulator surface is a crucial indicator for maintaining power system safety; its loss directly affects insulation performance.