High-voltage insulators mechanical load limits-part II: Standards and recommendations

This paper reviews and discusses the rated strength of insulators as defined in ANSI, CSA, and IEC product standards. The definition of rated strength, which for a particular insulator, requires reference to the tests and acceptance requirements given in the appropriate standard for that insulator is discussed. An insulator may not exhibit noticeable changes at loads sufficient for the initiation of irreversible damage, referred to as its damage limit. The significance of this is discussed in the paper as insulator application loads which must be below the damage limit of the insulator and be made in accordance with the relevant standard, including consideration of the allowable variation in strength implied by strict conformance to the standard. Damage limits for ceramic and composite insulators based on the minimum allowable strength according to the current standards are given.