"Managing Thermoset Resin Dielectric Insulation Failure Mechanisms
To Achieve Electrical Apparatus Life Extension
"

Abstract:  "Contemporary thermoset resin dielectric insulations function as complex material systems; using raw materials selected for their contributive property performance towards a set of physical, electrical and chemical in-service operating parameters defined by the electrical apparatus application.  Whether the desired property values of these raw materials are realized and maintained, as a dielectric insulation, is the result of an interactive dependency between:  1.) raw material sensitivity to processing variables during manufacture of the thermoset resin system;  2.) the thermoset resin’s key handling and processing parameters required to achieve optimum cured property performance; and  3.) the suitability of the thermoset resin system’s handling and processing parameters as a function of the electrical apparatus’ design configuration and assembly methodology.  This interactive dependency provides for the expression of dielectric insulation operating performance as a function of electrical apparatus design configuration and manufacturing methodology.  When linked through root cause failure analyses with constituent material properties and known material property degradation profiles; the material selection and manufacturing process baseline required to achieve and maintain optimum dielectric insulation performance is established."