Why Use Silicone Rubber For Composite Insulators

Application of Silicone Rubber in Composite Insulators

Silicone rubber is a polymer composite material composed of silicon dioxide (SiO2) and dimethylmethylsiloxane (MHOS). Produced through a specialized process, it can withstand long-term use in temperatures ranging from -60°C to 200°C. It exhibits excellent resistance to heat, cold, aging, and dielectrics, making it widely used in many industrial fields.

Silicone rubber is a polymer elastomer with both inorganic and organic properties. Because the Si-O bond energy of the main chain of the molecule (443.5 kJ.mol) is much higher than the C-C bond energy of the main chain of general rubber molecules (335 kJ.mol), compared with general rubber, silicone rubber has excellent heat resistance, cold resistance, excellent mold release, electrical properties, breathability, thermal conductivity, water resistance and good temperature stability.

Silicone rubber's key characteristics include: ① High-temperature resistance, enabling long-term use within a temperature range of -60°C to 200°C, with minimal impact from soldering irons, oxidizing gases, and other factors. ② Cold resistance: The material maintains stable performance at low temperatures without deformation, making maintenance very easy. ③ Aging resistance: Silicone rubber exhibits excellent aging resistance and withstands corrosion from common chemicals. ④ Excellent insulation: Silicone rubber exhibits excellent dielectric resistance, meeting the needs of a wide range of electrical and electronic applications. In short, silicone rubber is a compound with unique physical and chemical properties, offering broad application prospects in both daily life and industrial production.

Composite insulator sheds are made of several materials: silicone rubber, EPDM, resin, and polytetrafluoroethylene. Silicone rubber is the most common material. The cover is the outer insulation component of a composite insulator, providing the necessary creepage distance and protecting the core from the external environment and electrical corrosion.

Wuhan Line Power has successfully developed its own high-performance silicone rubber material, thanks to the expertise of the company's senior engineers. Through repeated formulation adjustments and strict control of every ingredient, the material is carefully manufactured under real-time supervision of each production step, ensuring consistent quality and reliable performance. At present, this self-developed composite material has reached a leading level within China. Wuhan Line Power's high-voltage composite insulators, made with this advanced silicone rubber, have been supplied to the State Grid of China for long-term use, further demonstrating the company's strength and commitment to innovation in the power industry.