The Relationship Between Insulation Ageing and Power Network Performance

A framework has been developed which links the reliability of insulation and plant to changes in their operating environment. These changes include non-power frequency events such as harmonics and the occurrence of impulses. This work is driven by the new demands put on real networks as a result of changing loads and renewable and distributed generation. The framework presented allows a coherent view of the interaction between models of failure mechanisms and network performance. Such a framework allows a clear interface between system analysts and plant engineers. It provides a platform for integrated asset management using existing knowledge of dielectric ageing mechanisms and condition monitoring. It will also provide a framework for future research in the area.