CHANDAN BANERJEE
Abstract
This paper presents a detailed and specific literature review on the lifetime assessment and cleaning of the insulators especially porcelain/ceramic insulators versus polymer/composite long rod insulator/silicon rubber. We studied and compiled available literature on lifetime assessment following cleaning and maintenance, along with the advantages and disadvantages between porcelain or ceramic insulators versus polymeric or composite insulators. In conclusion, the higher life expectancy observed in ceramic insulators (30 years) compared to composite insulators (maximum of 14 years). The cleaning and maintenance for ceramic or porcelain insulators by water is appropriate while in the case of polymeric or composite insulators, the usage of solvent for cleaning, the surface pollution could easily be removed, but there is a strong impact of odour pollution, which will not only damage the internal structure of silicon rubber insulator, but also cause environmental pollution. The insulators made of ceramic or porcelain have many advantages compared to polymeric or composite insulators.