Development of innovative liquid silicone materials for high-voltage insulators
The SKZ Plastics Centre, together with its industry partners Reinhausen Power Composites GmbH and PS Werkzeuge Vorrichtungen Metallbearbeitungs GmbH, has launched a new research project to develop innovative materials for high-voltage insulators. The aim is to develop a high-performance liquid silicone material that combines excellent dielectric and mechanical properties with cost-effective processability.
Schematic representation of a high-voltage insulator (source: Reinhausen Power Composites GmbH)
SKZ launches new research project
Numerous plastics are used in energy infrastructure – such as GRP semi-finished products for tap changers, rod insulators and hollow insulators, as well as silicone shielding and cable sheathing. The requirements for these materials are high: depending on the application, they must guarantee tightness, insulation or conductivity, weather resistance and durability under demanding conditions – while keeping costs as low as possible.
This is where the SKZ's new project comes in: as part of the project funded by the Bavarian Energy Research Programme ‘New Materials’, novel liquid silicone materials are being developed for use in high-voltage insulators in outdoor applications. The project will run from 1 October 2024 to 30 September 2027. Industry partners Reinhausen Power Composites GmbH and PS Werkzeuge Vorrichtungen Metallbearbeitungs GmbH are also involved in the project.
‘With this project, we want to make an important contribution to security of supply and strengthen the future viability of materials in energy technology,’ emphasises project manager Thomas Zimmermann, group leader for networked materials at SKZ. The liquid silicones to be developed are to be used in modern composite insulators, making them even more durable and efficient.
Innovative materials for a secure energy supply
The material innovations planned in the project offer a wide range of advantages: by combining functionalised fillers with specially selected liquid silicone types, high-voltage insulators with significantly improved mechanical and dielectric properties can be manufactured – with reduced material usage and energy-efficient, reliable processing.
Another advantage is that an integrated self-cleaning effect significantly extends the service life of the products, especially under real environmental conditions in outdoor operation. Zimmermann is convinced of the relevance of the developments: "With this project, we are laying the foundation for a new generation of high-voltage insulators that are not only economical but also particularly durable and efficient.
Close cooperation with our industrial partners is a key factor for success."
The SKZ would like to thank its project partners Reinhausen Power Composites GmbH and PS Werkzeuge Vorrichtungen Metallbearbeitungs GmbH for their dedicated cooperation and looks forward with confidence to the joint implementation of the research results in industrial applications.
