The internal structure of a glass-ceramic insulator (commonly known as a glass insulator) mainly consists of three parts: the insulating medium, metal fittings, and mechanical supports. Its core feature is the use of tempered glass as the insulator, which has a self-exploding characteristic for easy fault detection.
Insulation Components
Glass Body: Made of tempered glass with pre-stressed surfaces to enhance mechanical strength. The glass is transparent, allowing direct observation of internal defects (such as bubbles or cracks). In the event of breakdown or cracking, it will shatter and detach (self-explode), eliminating the need for zero-value testing.
Metal Fittings
Iron Cap: Located at the top of the insulator, made of high-strength cast iron or forged steel, with a hot-dip galvanized surface for corrosion resistance. It is connected to the glass body using cement adhesive and often incorporates an internal buffer spring to release mechanical stress.
Steel Foot: Located at the bottom, made of the same material as the iron cap, with a galvanized or stainless steel surface. It is fixed to the pole or support using threads or pins.
Hardware: Includes U-shaped hanging rings, cup-shaped hanging plates, and other connectors, made of high-strength aluminum alloy or hot-dip galvanized steel to ensure mechanical strength and conductivity requirements.
Mechanical Support Structure
Cement Adhesive: Used to firmly bond the glass body to metal fittings. It consists of high-grade cement, silica sand, and additives. Strict temperature and humidity control is required during curing to avoid stress concentration.
Equalizing Rings (High-Voltage Scenarios): Installed at both ends of the insulator string, made of aluminum alloy or galvanized steel, in open/closed ring shape, used to equalize the electric field distribution and suppress corona discharge and radio interference.
