Moisture Displacement and the Prevention of Surface Electrical Leakage

Electrical leakage across the surface of moist insulation can be reduced by the application of water-displacing fluids, and the susceptibility of many surfaces to leakage can be reduced by protective coatings. The water-displacing abilities and the protection provided by several agents were evaluated, and a superior formulation was developed. This formulation rapidly displaced moisture to restore insulation resistivity, and dried to a solid film which maintained high resistivity upon reexposure to moisture. The film also protected metal parts against corrosion, but had a minimal effect on electrical contacts. This material should be useful in the maintenance of aircraft and shipboard electrical and electronic equipment, and will aid in the restoration to service or temporary preservation of flooded equipment. The water-displacing action is produced by the use of n-butanol in the solvent blend. The protective film is composed of a paraffin wax, an ethylenevinyl acetate copolymer, and a corrosion inhibitor.