Selecting reliable cable insulation for nuclear generating stations

Silicone rubber offers advantages important in the selection of insulation for use during normal service in nuclear-powered generating stations-freedom of installation over a wide temperature range, low maintenance costs and safety during overloads and short circuits. Unique ashing characteristics during prolonged exposure to fire plus resistance to radiation and steam make silicone rubber the most reliable insulation under potential accident conditions. The forced shutdown of a generating station could result in high costs for replacement energy. The higher cost for silicone cables could disappear in a very few days. A continuation of present pricing trends combined with positive action in the area of cable design and specifications could greatly reduce cost differentials at some future date.