Aging phenomenon in insulation materials

We know that in the use of insulation materials, there are irreversible processes that occur over time. Insulating materials can cause certain aging. Do you know what aging is. Here, we will provide you with a detailed explanation.
The concept of aging: Insulation materials in electrical equipment undergo a series of irreversible changes during operation due to long-term effects of various factors, resulting in changes or declines in their physical, chemical, electrical, and mechanical properties. This irreversible change is commonly referred to as aging.
So what are some specific reasons for aging?
Environmental aging reasons: The energy of sunlight ultraviolet rays is greater than the bond energy of the main valence bond in most organic insulation materials, and most organic insulation materials will gradually age under the action of ultraviolet light.
After the polymer dielectric absorbs ultraviolet light energy, some molecules are excited, and when oxygen or ozone is present, it also triggers an oxidative degradation reaction of the polymer, known as photorecognition reaction. Photooxidation reaction is one of the important processes in environmental aging.
Electrical aging: Under the long-term action of an electric field, the physical and chemical properties of insulation materials undergo changes, ultimately leading to the breakdown of the medium. This process is called electrical aging. There are three main types: ionizing aging (AC voltage); Conductivity aging (AC voltage); Electrolytic aging (DC voltage)
Thermal aging: At higher temperatures, the dielectric undergoes thermal cracking, oxidative decomposition, cross-linking, and the escape of low molecular volatiles, leading to loss of elasticity, embrittlement, cracking, and a decrease in mechanical strength. Some media also exhibit softening, stickiness, and loss of shape. At the same time, the dielectric's electrical properties deteriorate. The degree of thermal aging mainly depends on temperature and thermal action time. In addition, factors such as humidity, pressure, oxygen content, and air circulation in the air also have a certain impact on the rate of thermal aging.
Electrolytic aging: under the long-term effect of DC voltage, even if the applied voltage is far lower than the initial voltage of partial discharge, the medium will gradually aging due to the near electrochemical process inside the medium, and eventually lead to breakdown.
Therefore, in production, we must pay attention to the service life and range of insulation materials. Try to avoid rapid aging of insulation materials.
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