Isolateurs de suspension et chaînes d’ancrage

Often neglected elements, but nevertheless they are guardians of networks and lines and power outages become inevitable when they fail.

Why are suspension insulators essential?

Electrical cables need reliable support to stay in place and ensure the flow of current.

The function of suspension insulators:

Electrical insulation preventing current from dissipating towards the pylons and causing short circuits and accidents.

Mechanical support for the weight of the cables taking into account various climatic constraints (wind, ice, etc.).

Failure of chains for one reason or another can cause serious consequences:

Partial discharge, loss of energy, interruption of services, disruptions to the electrical network.
Loss of life and fires in the event of falling conductors.

Suspension insulators, robust for their function but remain vulnerable:

Cracks and breaks: Mechanical shock, vandalism, thermal stress or manufacturing defects.
Aging and degradation mainly for composite insulators: Effect of UV rays, humidity or pollution
Corrosion of reinforcements and fasteners

Pollution: Dust, salt, chemicals or other contaminants can accumulate on the surface of insulators, reducing their insulating capacity and potentially causing arcing or leakage currents.
Ice and Snow: Accumulation of ice or snow can increase the weight on insulators and cause excessive mechanical stress.
Lightning: Lightning strikes can damage insulators by causing surges and arcing.

Incorrect installation: Incorrect assembly of the insulator strings, insufficient or excessive tightening of the fasteners lead to cable stability problems.
Insufficient maintenance: A lack of regular monitoring and cleaning of insulators can lead to a build-up of pollution and gradual degradation of the materials.

Grid Energy Company reminds:

To prevent these problems, it is essential to:

Choose quality insulators: Adapted to the environmental conditions and the mechanical and electrical constraints of the line.
Ensure correct installation: By following the manufacturer's standards and recommendations.
Implement regular maintenance and monitoring: Including visual inspections, insulation resistance measurements and periodic cleaning of insulators.
Use protective devices: Against lightning and surges.
Strengthen insulation and reduce cleaning frequency by applying HVIC coating.

Suspension insulators and anchor chains