Fracture analysis of composite high voltage insulators

In this presentation, fracture mechanisms caused by the combined effect of mechanical, electrical and environmental stresses in composite high voltage insulators are discussed. In particular, the effect called brittle fracture as well as damage/fracture mechanisms caused by improper crimping are demonstrated. Several experimental procedures developed to simulate the brittle fracture process under laboratory conditions are shown and discussed. In addition, comprehensive non-linear finite element models of crimped composite insulators developed to optimize crimping and to increase the mechanical strength of crimped composite insulators are presented. 1 The effect of crimping on the mechanical strength of composite high voltage insulators is discussed in this presentation.