BHARATI VIDYAPEETH

INSTITUTE PF TECHNOLOGY

(Polytechnic)

Belpada, Navi Mumbai – 400614

INSULATING MATERIALS
NAME OF FAULTY:- MRS. SRILAXMI INAMPUDI

SUBJECT:- Maintenance of electrical equipement

SUBJECT CODE:- 22625

ACADEMIC YEAR:- 2023-22

MEMBERS :-
DHIRAJ PAVSHE -3321
SWARUP PATIL – 3322
KRISH MALI - 3323
VIRAJ PATIL - 3324
SR.NO TOPIC PG. NO

1. CLASSIFICATION OF INSULATING MATERIALS 3-5

2. FACTORS AFFECTING THE LIFE OF INSULATING 6-7

MATERIALS

3. METHODS OF CLEANING OF INSULATION OF 8-9

MACHINES

4. DRYING METHODS OF INSULATIONS 10-11

5. VACCUME IMPREGNATION PLANT 12-15

 Classification of Insulating Material
Thermally the insulators are classified into The classification of insulating material is
based on the thermal classification, physical classification, structural, chemical
classification, and the process of manufacture.

Thermal Classification
seven types or seven classes they are class-Y, class-A, class-E, class-B, class-F, class-
H, and class-C.

Class-Y
The class-Y limitation temperature is 90°C and the materials come under class-Y are
cotton, paper, silk, and similar organic materials.

Class-A
The class-A limitation temperature is 105°C and the materials come under class-A are
impregnated paper, silk, polyamide, cotton, and resins.

Class-E
The class-E limitation temperature is 120°C and the materials come under class-E are
enameled wire insulation on the base of powdered plastics, polyvinyl epoxy resins,
etc.

Class-B
The class-B limitation temperature is 130°C and the materials come under class-B are
inorganic materials impregnated with varnish.

Class-F
The class-F limitation temperature is 155°C and the materials come under class-F are
mica, polyester epoxide varnished in the high heat resistance.
Class-H
The class-H limitation temperature is 180°C and the materials come under class-H are
composite materials on mica, glass, fiber, etc.

Class-C
The class-C limitation temperature is >180°C and the materials come under class-C
are glass, mica, quartz, ceramics, Teflon, etc

Physical Classification of Insulating Material

The physical classification of insulating material is classified into three types they are
solid, liquid, and gaseous. The physical classification of insulators is shown in the
below figure.

The solid insulating materials are fibrous, ceramic, mica, glass, rubber, and resinous.
The liquid insulating materials are mineral oils, synthetic oils, transformer oils, and
miscellaneous oils. The gaseous insulating materials are air, hydrogen, nitrogen, and
Sulphur hexafluoride.

Structural Classification
The structural classification of insulating material is classified into two types they are
cellulose and fibrous.

Chemical Classification
The chemical classification of insulating material is classified into two types they are
organic and inorganic.
 Factors Affecting The Life Of Insulating Materials
1.
Temperature : The insulation resistance decreases with temperature. The
dielectric loss increase with temperature. The resistivity of the insulating material
decreases by increse in temperature. The same can be expressed as
Rt = R0 (1 - α0t ), et = e0 (1 - α0t )
Rt = Resistance of material at t0c,
R 0= Resistance of material at 00c
α0 = Resistance temperature coefficient at 00c
e0 = Specific resistance 00c
et = Specific resistance t0c

1. Absorption of moisture : The absorption of moisture by insulting material

decrease its surface resistance. It causes insulation failure or breakdown when they
are exposed to atmosphere. The moisture affects the mechanical strength of the
insulating material.

2. Mechanical stresses : Mechanical stresses are developed in the material due

electromechanical forces, stresses during running condition , which is true for
rotating electrical machines. It develops very small cracks in the insulating
material. Hence reduces the life of insulating material.

3. Thermal stresses : The heat is produced in the insulating material due to dielectric
loss, copper loss in the conductor. Heat produced by copper loss in the conductor is
absorbed by nearby insulating material. If sufficient and proper ventilation and
cooling is not provided, then the insulating material looses its thermal stability
which reduces the life of insulating material. Thermal stability means, the heat
developed in the insulating material should be equal to heat thrown out by the
insulating material.

4. Electrical stresses : During lightening heavy impulse surge voltages come across
the insulating materials, even switching produces voltage surges. Such transient
voltage when greater than the breakdown voltage of insulating material, punctures
or breaks insulating material and the insulating material looses insulating property.

5. Deposition of dust, dirt, oil : The surrounding atmosphere contains dust, dirt
particles. These are accumulated over the electrical machine and the dirt, dust
reduces the insulation resistance. Thus the insulation becomes weak.
6. Impurities : Impurities present in the insulating material reduces the insulation
resistance as well as the dielectric strength. All above factors are affecting the life
of insulating material.
 Cleaning Methods Of The Insulation Of Electrical Machines

1. **Visual Inspection**: Before cleaning, visually inspect the insulation for any
signs of damage or contamination. This can help identify areas that need special
attention.

2. **Compressed Air Blowing**: Using compressed air to blow away dust, dirt,
and debris from the insulation surfaces can be effective, especially in areas that are
hard to reach.

3. **Vacuum Cleaning**: Vacuum cleaners equipped with appropriate

attachments can be used to remove loose dirt and debris from the insulation
surfaces without causing damage.

4. **Brushing**: Soft-bristled brushes or vacuum brush attachments can be used

to gently brush away dust and dirt from the insulation surfaces.

5. **Solvent Cleaning**: For stubborn dirt or grease buildup, solvent cleaning

may be necessary. However, it's essential to use solvents that are compatible with
the insulation materials and to follow proper safety precautions.

6. **Steam Cleaning**: Steam cleaning can be effective for removing dirt and
contaminants from insulation surfaces. However, it's essential to ensure that the
steam doesn't penetrate the insulation and cause damage.

7. **Ultrasonic Cleaning**: In some cases, ultrasonic cleaning can be used to

remove contaminants from insulation surfaces. This method uses high-frequency
sound waves to create cavitation bubbles that effectively clean the surface.
8. **Chemical Cleaning**: Chemical cleaning agents specifically formulated for
electrical insulation can be used to remove dirt, grease, and other contaminants.
However, it's crucial to choose chemicals that are compatible with the insulation
materials and to follow proper safety procedures.

9. **Abrasive Cleaning**: In certain situations, abrasive cleaning methods such

as sanding or bead blasting may be necessary to remove tough stains or corrosion
from insulation surfaces. However, these methods should be used with caution to
avoid damaging the insulation.

10. **Dry Ice Blasting**: Dry ice blasting uses compressed air to propel small
pellets of dry ice at high speeds, effectively removing dirt and contaminants from
insulation surfaces without leaving any residue behind.

Before using any cleaning method, it's essential to consult the manufacturer's
recommendations and follow proper safety procedures to avoid damaging the
insulation or posing a risk to personnel. Additionally, regular cleaning and
maintenance schedules should be established to ensure the long-term performance
and safety of electrical machines.
 Drying insulation in electrical machines

1. **Natural Air Drying**: Placing the electrical machine in a well-ventilated area

and allowing natural airflow to circulate around it can help evaporate moisture
from the insulation. This method is suitable for mildly damp conditions but may
take longer to dry the insulation completely.

2. **Forced Air Drying**: Using fans or blowers to circulate air around the
insulation can accelerate the drying process. Positioning the fans strategically to
ensure proper airflow over the affected areas can help remove moisture more
effectively.

3. **Heat Drying**: Applying heat to the insulation can speed up the drying
process by increasing the rate of evaporation. However, it's crucial to use heat
sources that do not exceed the temperature limits of the insulation material to avoid
damage. Common heat sources include infrared lamps, heating blankets, or warm
air blowers.

4. **Dehumidification**: Using dehumidifiers can remove excess moisture from

the air surrounding the electrical machine, helping to dry the insulation more
efficiently. Dehumidification is particularly useful in humid environments or when
dealing with large amounts of moisture.

5. **Vacuum Drying**: Vacuum drying involves creating a low-pressure

environment around the insulation, which lowers the boiling point of water and
facilitates faster evaporation. This method is often used in conjunction with heat to
accelerate drying while minimizing the risk of thermal damage to the insulation.

6. **Desiccant Drying**: Desiccants such as silica gel or molecular sieves can

absorb moisture from the insulation and surrounding air, aiding in the drying
process. Placing the electrical machine in a sealed enclosure with desiccant packs
can help remove moisture effectively.

7. **Oven Drying**: In cases where precision temperature control is required, or

when dealing with small components, oven drying may be used. Electrical
machines or components are placed in an oven set to a specific temperature for a
defined period to remove moisture from the insulation.

It's essential to monitor the drying process closely to prevent overheating or over-
drying, which can damage the insulation or other components of the electrical
machine. Additionally, before drying, it's crucial to ensure that any sources of
moisture ingress are addressed to prevent future issues. Regular maintenance and
inspection can help identify and mitigate potential moisture-related problems in
electrical machines.
 Vacuum Imprgnation Plant

Vacuum impregnation is a process used to fill the voids and pores in porous
materials, such as electrical insulation, with a liquid resin to enhance their
mechanical strength and resistance to moisture and other environmental factors.
Below is a basic diagram illustrating the components and process of a vacuum
impregnation plant:

1. **Vacuum Chamber**: This is a sealed chamber where the impregnation

process takes place. It is equipped with a vacuum pump to create a vacuum
environment.

2. **Resin Reservoir**: A reservoir containing the liquid resin is connected to the

vacuum chamber via a valve system. The resin may be heated to reduce its
viscosity and improve impregnation.

3. **Workpiece Holder**: The electrical components or materials to be

impregnated are placed inside the vacuum chamber. They may be mounted on a
rack or fixture to ensure proper positioning.
4. **Vacuum Pump**: A vacuum pump is used to evacuate air from the vacuum
chamber, creating a low-pressure environment. This helps remove air and other
gases from the pores of the material to be impregnated.

5. **Pressure Reservoir**: After the vacuum is applied, the valve connecting the
resin reservoir to the vacuum chamber is opened, allowing the liquid resin to flow
into the chamber and impregnate the material. The pressure reservoir may be
pressurized to aid in the flow of resin.

6. **Pressure Control System**: A pressure control system is used to regulate the

pressure inside the vacuum chamber and pressure reservoir during the
impregnation process.

7. **Vacuum Gauge**: A vacuum gauge is used to monitor the level of vacuum

inside the chamber during the evacuation process.

8. **Resin Recovery System**: Excess resin that does not impregnate the material
is collected and returned to the resin reservoir for reuse. This helps minimize waste
and reduce costs.

9. **Heating System (optional)**: In some cases, a heating system may be

incorporated into the vacuum chamber to accelerate the curing process of the
impregnating resin.

10. **Control Panel**: The control panel houses the controls and monitoring
devices for the vacuum impregnation plant, allowing operators to regulate the
process parameters and monitor the impregnation process.
This diagram provides a simplified overview of the components and process of a
vacuum impregnation plant. Actual plants may vary in design and configuration
depending on the specific requirements of the impregnation process and the
materials being treated.

CONCLUSION :-
In summary, insulating materials are indispensable in electrical engineering,
providing essential protection and insulation for a wide range of applications.
Advancements in material science continue to drive improvements in insulation
performance, reliability, and sustainability, ensuring the continued safety and
efficiency of electrical systems and equipment.