Applications of polymeric outdoor insulation in Japan

Intensive research and development concerning the application of polymeric outdoor insulations in Japan started about 10 years ago. Research on applyi ng polymeric insulating materials to power systems covers various fields su ch as insulators and interphase spacers for overhead transmission lines, po lymer housing of bushing and surge arresters for substation apparatus, insu lators and interphase spacers for distribution lines and insulators for rai lways. Polymeric insulators and housings for electric power systems are bei ng evaluated to extend their use, focusing on insulation characteristics su ch as withstand voltage against salt contamination and deterioration throug h prolonged use. For railways, trial uses of polymeric insulators have been started on commercial lines.