scope:

This document, which is an International Standard, applies to composite hollow insulators consisting of a load-bearing insulating tube made of resin impregnated fibres, a housing (outside the insulating tube) made of elastomeric material (for example silicone or ethylenepropylene) and metal fixing devices at the ends of the insulating tube (see Figure D.1 and Figure D.2 for examples). Composite hollow insulators as defined in this document are intended for general use (unpressurized) or for use with a permanent gas pressure (pressurized). They are intended for use in both outdoor and indoor electrical equipment operating on alternating current with a rated voltage greater than 1 000 V AC and a frequency not greater than 100 Hz or for use in direct current equipment with a rated voltage greater than 1 500 V DC.

The object of this document is:

- to define the terms used;

- to specify test methods;

- to specify acceptance criteria.

Hollow insulators are integrated into electrical equipment which is electrically type tested as required by the applicable equipment standard. So, it is not the object of this document to specify dielectric type tests because the withstand voltages and flashover behaviour are not characteristics of the hollow insulator itself but of the apparatus of which it ultimately forms a part.

All the tests in this document, apart from the thermal-mechanical test, are performed at normal ambient temperature. This document does not specify tests that might be characteristic of the equipment of which the hollow insulator ultimately forms a part.

Composite hollow insulators are intended for use in electrical equipment, such as, but not limited to:

• HV circuit-breakers,

• switch-disconnectors,

• disconnectors,

• station posts,

• disconnecting circuit breakers,

• earthing switches,

• instrument- and power transformers,

• bushings,

• housing for surge arresters,

• cable terminations.

Additional testing defined by the relevant IEC equipment standard may be required.