Bond Testing between FRP and Rubber in Power Grid Insulators

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Bond Testing between FRP and Rubber in Power Grid Insulators

In power grid insulators, fibre-reinforced plastic/polymers (FRP) and rubberised materials are fused together. If the interface bonding is not uniform, the distribution of the electric field will be adversely affected, which accelerates the ageing of composite insulators and thus, affects the safe operation of transmission lines. 
Hence, it is important to inspect the bonding between the FRP and rubber. Due to high sound attenuation characteristics of FRP and rubber, ultrasonic testing is a challenge. EECI has developed an ultrasonic solution, which includes an advanced ultrasonic machine (Advanscan AS-414) and specially designed transducers, to satisfactorily test these bonds. The electronics has a range of features such as high penetration power mode, low noise levels and high resolution performance, which makes it ideal for this application. The solution helps identify even the slightest of deviations in the bonding and echo patterns, which enables the operator to single out faulty insulators.

To discuss your NDT requirements, please get in touch with our sales team.