Changing insulation systems-benefits and problems

In the last decade there have been numerous advances made in insulating tapes, resins, test methods and instrumentation. The impact of the application of the newer tapes and resins has produced step surges in insulation technology. The primary emphasis has been on the reduction of the total insulation in the machines to achieve higher output density, improved heat transfer, improved efficiency and performance. The enhancements in test methods and equipment have served to increase the predictive accuracy of pending failures and to improve the integrity of the insulation system. Methods designed to find failures are now used to predict weakness and improve the insulation processes. As the demands on insulation systems are increased, failure mechanisms that were infrequent are starting to become more common. This paper will look at one manufacturer´s vision of the future of insulation technology as it applies to the design of rotating equipment. It will also discuss the use of insulation evaluation techniques in insulation design, and will review insulation failure mechanisms and problems