Insulators are an important component of power systems, used to support and electrically isolate conductors or equipment. In low-voltage lines, composite insulators and ceramic composite insulators are common choices. This article will compare the performance of these two insulators in low-voltage lines.
First, composite insulators use glass fiber reinforced plastic or silicone rubber as the shell material, metal bolts are used for internal connection, and the insulating material is silicone composite. In contrast, the shell and insulating material of ceramic composite insulators are both ceramic materials.
In terms of insulation performance, the silicone composite material of the composite insulator has high resistance to electric shock and pollution flashover, which can effectively prevent arc discharge and insulation breakdown. Ceramic composite insulators use ceramic materials with good arc breakdown resistance and high friction compression strength. Therefore, in low-voltage lines, both insulators can provide good insulation performance and effectively protect the safe operation of the line.
Secondly, in terms of mechanical properties, composite insulators have high bending strength and tensile strength, and can resist external impact and wind loads. In terms of mechanical properties, ceramic composite insulators have good resistance to tension and lateral impact, and can withstand line stress.
In terms of anti-fouling performance, composite insulators have good self-cleaning and anti-fouling properties due to the use of silicone composite materials, which can reduce the adhesion of dust and stains on the surface and maintain good insulation performance. The ceramic surface of the ceramic composite insulator is relatively smooth and not easy to adhere to dust and stains, so it also has good anti-fouling performance.
In terms of economy, composite insulators have lower manufacturing and maintenance costs. Due to the use of silicone composite materials, the material cost is lower. However, the material cost of ceramic composite insulators is relatively high due to the use of ceramic materials.
In general, in low-voltage lines, composite insulators and ceramic composite insulators have good insulation, mechanical and anti-fouling properties. Considering more comprehensively, composite insulators are more widely used in low-voltage lines. Its cost advantage and stable performance make it the first choice in low-voltage lines.
However, it is worth noting that the performance of the two insulators may be different under different environmental conditions. Therefore, when selecting insulators, it is necessary to conduct a comprehensive evaluation based on the specific use environment and requirements to ensure that the insulators can meet the safety requirements of the line.
In summary, composite insulators and ceramic composite insulators have certain differences in performance in low-voltage lines. Composite insulators have higher insulation performance, mechanical properties and pollution resistance, and have lower manufacturing and maintenance costs, so they are more common and widely used in low-voltage lines. However, the selection of suitable insulators needs to consider the specific use environment and requirements. Only by comprehensively evaluating the performance characteristics of different insulators can the safe operation of the line be ensured.
