Izolatorach

Izolatorach, in Polish, refers to insulators in electrical engineering. They are materials or components designed to prevent unintended current flow and to support electrical conductors without forming an electrical connection to other structures. They must withstand electrical stress while resisting environmental effects.

Electrical insulators can be classified by material and by function. Common materials include porcelain, glass, and polymers such as silicone rubber. Porcelain and glass insulators have high mechanical strength and long service life in traditional installations, while polymer insulators are lighter, more hydrophobic, and perform well in polluted or coastal environments.

Typical forms include suspension insulators (used on overhead lines to suspend conductors), pin insulators, line posts (dead-end insulators), and bushings for equipment like transformers. Key performance parameters include dielectric strength, puncture voltage, creepage distance along the surface, and resistance to weathering. Hydrophobic polymer insulators help shed water to reduce leakage currents.

Applications: insulators are used in transmission and distribution networks, substations, and electrical equipment to isolate conductors from structures and to carry mechanical loads. They must prevent arcing, tracking, and short circuits under varying weather, pollution, and icing conditions.

Maintenance and aging: insulators can degrade due to thermal stress, UV exposure, contamination, or mechanical damage. Inspections look for cracks, glazing loss, or contamination; cleaning or replacement may be required. Standards and test methods specify required electrical and mechanical performance.