Dielectric strength measures the electrical insulation properties of a material or substance, which is important in electrical engineering, power generation, telecommunications, and other industries. Maintaining the dielectric strength of a material is vital to ensure the safety and reliability of equipment and systems. In dielectric breakdown, the material’s resistance decreases rapidly and becomes electrically conductive (short circuits). The measure of dielectric strength is expressed as Volts per unit thickness (V/mil). ASTM International (American Society for Testing and Materials) publishes several standard tests for determining dielectric strength in certain applications.
Epoxy resins are a key material in applications requiring outstanding electrical insulation properties. Epoxy resins are widely used as insulating materials in electrical specifications because of their excellent thermal stability and dielectric properties. Moreover, epoxy resins offer excellent adhesion to various materials (substrates), toughness, durability, and superb chemical and heat resistance. As a result, epoxy resins are used extensively in potting and encapsulation applications. Overall, epoxy is an excellent insulating material due to its high dielectric strength, which makes it a preferred choice for electrical and electronic applications where high voltage levels are involved.
These are the key steps in maintaining dielectric strength to prevent potential failures:
1. Keep the Material Clean
Maintaining dielectric strength begins with keeping the material or substance clean and free of impurities. Dust, dirt, grease, oil, salts, and other conductive substances can reduce a material’s dielectric strength, resulting in probable failures and equipment damage.
2. Avoid Extreme Temperatures
Another crucial aspect of preserving dielectric strength is to prevent the overheating of the material or substance. High temperatures can deteriorate a material, resulting in a loss in dielectric strength. Therefore, it is critical to continuously monitor the temperature of equipment and systems and take appropriate measures to keep them cool.
3. Regularly Test the Dielectric Strength
It is important to regularly test the dielectric strength of a material or substance to verify that it remains within acceptable parameters. It may be accomplished using various techniques, including high-potential and dielectric loss testing. Dielectric strength should be tested and validated by users in specific applications, as the dielectric properties will vary based on the operating conditions of the application.
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High-potential testing:
This test determines a material’s dielectric strength and identifies any weaknesses or defects in the insulation. It involves applying a high voltage to a material for a short period and observing if an electrical breakdown occurs. The voltage used is usually higher than the maximum operating voltage the material will be exposed to in service.
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Dielectric loss testing:
This test measures the energy absorbed by a material when an AC voltage is applied. It provides information about the quality of the insulation and its ability to resist electrical degradation over time. Thus, the results of dielectric loss testing can be used to predict a material’s long-term reliability and identify areas that may require improvement.
By appropriate testing, potential issues can be recognized early and corrected before they cause equipment failure.
4. Ensure Proper Storage
Another key element to consider in preserving dielectric strength is proper storage. The item or substance should be kept in a regulated environment to avoid damage or contamination. For example, it might involve keeping the material dry and within the appropriate temperature range. Proper storage can also help to increase the material’s lifespan and prevent any breakdowns or malfunctions.
5. Maintenance and Inspection
Keeping a material’s dielectric strength requires proper maintenance and inspection of the equipment and systems in which the material is used or contained. Regularly examining equipment can aid in the early detection of possible problems and prevent equipment failure. Check for wear and tear, monitor for signs of degradation, and replace parts as needed.
Dielectric Strength: Built To Last With United Resin
At United Resin, we specialize in providing high-quality epoxy resin systems and have a wide range of epoxy resin systems with superior electrical insulation qualities and superior dielectric strength! Our systems offer many benefits, including thermal conductivity, high-temperature resistance, optical qualities, high strength, vibration dampening, and flame retardance. They are used in various electronics, medical, and construction industries.
With over 50 years of experience and high-quality customer service, our team of experts is dedicated to providing the best solutions to meet your needs. Our top priority is helping you select the appropriate product with the dielectric properties required for your equipment’s safety, quality, functionality, and reliability.
Contact us now to learn more about our dielectric epoxy resin systems and other services we can provide to benefit your business!