Power Line Insulator

Did you know that the human skin is one of the best conductors of electric charges?On the contrary, insulators are poor conductors of electric current which means they do not allow electric charge to seep through easily. Electrical insulators therefore, are equipment with high resistance to pass on electric current.

They are used in electric systems to prevent undesirable flow of current to the earth from the supported structures. Electrical insulators do not allow free flow of electric currents or charges. Electrical insulators are hence poor conductors of electricity.

Importance of Electric Insulators

Being that they are poor conductors of electric current does not mean that electric insulators are not equally important. They are highly useful at home, school, and offices where electrical appliances are useful.

An electrical insulator material prevents and protects electrical devices from producing high voltage of power. They help in:

• Reducing the expenditure of energy.
• Improving process attainment.
• Obstructs electric shock when in contact with tools.
• Helps in saving the environment by dominating the emission of pollutants.
• Allows sound proofing of the tools.

Application of Electrical Insulators

Electrical insulators are applied to:

• Circuit boards
• Coating of electric wires
• High voltage tools
• Coating cables
• Coating of electric poles on the streets

Types of Electrical Insulation on Overhead Power Lines

Electrical insulators can be able to resist different charges of currents from electricity. They are hence classified into three types of electric insulation based on their operating voltage and applications.

Pin Type Electrical Insulator

A pin insulator is best for supporting low voltage line. It has a porcelain shell to obstruct it from leakage so as the inside does not get wet.

Suspension Electrical Insulator

These are best to manage high voltage transmission lines. This one has porcelain discs inside organized in series through metal connections which depends on the weather condition, voltage and size of the insulator. The suspension insulator is helpful because when one disc is impaired, the other ones can conduct until the damaged one is replaced.

Stain Electrical Insulators

These are almost similar to suspension type but its parameters are somewhat different. They are used in overhead transmission systems. It is placed in bend positions.

Shackle Electrical Insulator

Shackle insulators are small in size and are used in overhead distribution systems and it works in a position of bend or circular turn. They are used in less voltage areas in distribution lines. They are combined to the pole using cross arms.

Post Insulators

Post insulators are used in the power substations as they are fit for different voltages. It is positioned in a vertical position and it protects transformers, switch gears and other components.

Stay Insulators

Stay insulator are rectangular in shape and are used in distribution lines. The design of their arrangement is done among the conductors and earth. They are used to protect the devices in case faults happen abruptly.

Disc insulator

These provide a cheaper solution to medium and low polluted environments as they are designed with high end raw materials. They are mostly used in transmission and distribution lines. Other than that, they are also used in commercial and industrial lines because they have high efficient characteristics like less corrosion and robust design. It also helps back conductors used for insulation in cables.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an insulator?

An insulator is a material that does not allow electric current to pass through.

What are some examples of insulators?

Some examples are plastic, glass, paper, rubber and dry air.

Which insulators are used in overhead distribution systems?

Suspension electrical insulator, stay electrical insulator, pin electrical insulator and disc electrical insulator are some insulation used in overhead distribution systems.

What are some of the uses of electrical insulators?

Electrical insulator help stop the production of high voltage in a circuit, improve performance of a process, prevent electrocution, enables sound proofing of appliances and also help in regulating the cost of energy.

What are the three best electric insulators?

Plastic, wood, rubber and glass are some of the best examples of insulators as they do not easily pass electric current.