Isolation plays a key role in the reliable and safe operation of electrical installations. However, with the passage of time and as a result of various factors, cable insulation may be degraded, which leads to the risk of failure, short circuit or interruption of wires. In this article, we will present the main mechanisms of degradation of cable insulation, which factors affect this process and effective strategies for preventing such threats.

Why do cable lines damage?

Damage may occur at every stage from laying to the operation of the cable line. When pouring, equipment such as a corner roll is used, but after laying, high -quality insulation is very important. Its damage may occur as a result of various factors, such as:

1. Thermal aging of insulation

One of the most important mechanisms of cable insulation degradation is thermal aging. High temperature, caused, for example, by electric overload or incorrect current flow, can lead to damage to the insulation structure. This reduces its strength and flexibility, and consequently susceptible to cracking and fragility.

2. Atmospheric factors

Cable insulation is exposed to various weather conditions, such as moisture, UV radiation, variable temperatures and the presence of chemicals. These factors can lead to insulation degradation by damaging its chemical or physical structure. For example, UV radiation can cause oxidation and cracks on the insulation surface, which increases the risk of penetration of moisture and short circuits.

3. Mechanical damage

Mechanical damage, such as overload, crushing or too aggressive cable drag, can lead to insulation degradation. Strong mechanical voltages can cause cracks, insulation or its damage, which increases the risk of a short circuit or interruption of the cable. Cables used outside buildings are particularly vulnerable to mechanical damage.

4. Action of chemical factors

Contact with inappropriate chemicals, such as oils, acids, solvents or aggressive compounds, can lead to degradation of cable insulation. These substances can react with insulation material, causing chemical or physical changes that weaken its structure and insulation properties. Avoid the exposure of cables to such substances and use appropriate insulation materials resistant to chemical factors.

5. Operating factors

Daily operation of the electrical installation, such as cycles of switching and off, overloading or improper maintenance, can also affect the degradation of cable insulation. Introducing sudden changes in temperature or current flow, inadequate use of protective devices, as well as a lack of regular inspections and maintenance, can lead to damage to insulation.

Hazard management and prevention of insulation degradation

At the stacking stage, equipment such as the wire lift is useful. During operation, it is worth following a few basic rules:

• Regular reviews and maintenance: allow you to detect early signs of insulation degradation and take appropriate repair actions.
• The selection of appropriate insulation materials: the choice of appropriate insulation materials that are resistant to atmospheric factors, chemicals and high temperature will significantly affect the durability of cable insulation.
• Appropriate protection against atmospheric factors: the use of protection, such as special covers, protects the cables against weather conditions.
• Operating awareness: educating the staff responsible for electrical installations on factors affecting insulation degradation and ensuring appropriate operational procedures is an absolute basis.

Insulation, like any other material, is not completely resistant to damage. However, proper assembly and operation allow you to reduce the risk of failure to a minimum.

What do insulation damage in cable lines look like?

Insulation is made of solid materials that have electrical strength, i.e. puncture resistance under the influence of applied voltage. When damage and loss of insulation properties occur, this happens in three phases:

• Pre -release processes - the material's strength is reduced by tension, temperature and environmental factors.
• Initiation and formation of incomplete discharges - discharges arise in the most weakened places. As a result, a conducting channel is created between the electrodes.
• The main discharge phase - the main discharge occurs in the conductive channel, which eventually leads to a short circuit of electrodes.

Before mechanical damage at the cable stacking stage, they protect, among others, cable winches. It is worth remembering, however, that during operation there are also numerous factors that can lead to surge and failures.

Understanding various mechanisms of degradation of cable insulation and the impact of various factors on the reliability of electrical installations is crucial to ensure safety. So let's remember to care for cable insulation to avoid problems in the future.