Through its technological advances, the modern world has brought us many new materials, substances and other goods to make our lives easier, better and much more comfortable.
Electricity is one of the most common and most reliable inventions; however, it is still one of the most dangerous if it is misused or its applications are underestimated.
This is the reason why any item that carries electrical current is designed to do so safely and with some kind of insulation. Isolation limits the flow of current between the different conductors and between the conductors to earth. Therefore, it is very important that the insulation has the opposite transfer properties of the conductor. The conductors are generally metallic and the most common are copper or aluminum, both known to be very good conductors of electric current due to the high load capacity of materials and the constant thermal properties.
The insulation is usually made of a non-metallic material. Most electrical insulation is made of PVC, plastic or rubber. You must resist the current and keep it on the path beside the driver. Many of the best insulators are man-made.
In theory, the insulation should not carry electrical current. However, in reality, there is no ideal insulation material. Every type of insulation has some resistance. The resistance of the insulation material needs to be very high, but it is not infinite. Obviously, the higher the resistance, the better the insulation capacity.
Electrical insulation requires attention
Wire, cable and motor manufacturers have continually improved their insulation. In areas where electricity is being used in industry, and even at home, manufacturers have developed much better products at a much lower cost. However, insulation, while in use, is subject to many effects that can cause failure. Mechanical damage, vibration, excessive heat or cold, dirt, oil, corrosive vapors, air humidity and general wear and tear are all causes.
A combination of electrical voltage and insulation degradation is constantly happening, as one of the main causes of insulation failure is general wear and tear. As holes or cracks develop, moisture and foreign materials penetrate the insulation, providing a lower resistance path to leakage current. Once started, different degradation processes help each other. This will allow excessive current through the insulation.
The leakage current cannot be detected by smell or sight. This is what makes the issue dangerous, as only the consequences can be perceived. Usually too late.
If there is a planned maintenance program, this will gradually reduce the insulation resistance. This will also allow for a replacement or renewal service program before the part has a complete field failure. If there is no maintenance program, the item with poor and degraded insulation can become dangerous to the touch when the voltage is applied.
Geartech BR works with excellent electrical insulating products, certified and of excellent origin, in order to meet expectations and achieve customer satisfaction. Contact us for details. Our service team is ready to help you!
