Development of a new porcelain insulator design applied to distribution networks in Brazil

This paper presents some results of a new porcelain insulator design applied to distribution networks in Brazil. The mechanical modeling allows the analysis of the flexural strength. In the electrical modeling an axi-symmetric electrostatic formulation is applied to study the porcelain insulator performances. This analysis allows to examine if the electric field values are above of the dielectric strength values of the material, which would result in the rupture of the dielectric. After this, the prototypes are manufactured based on the simulations and tested electrically according to Brazilian standard. The use of this new porcelain system in replacement of the current system presented the following characteristics: higher insulation weather resistance, higher safety, lower maintaining, the same installation cost, and the advantage of being more aesthetically pleasant.