Recent advancements in the field of composite materials have unveiled significant insights into the strain characteristics of toughened epoxy resins (EPs) and their composites, particularly in high voltage gas-insulated switchgear (GIL) tri-post insulators. This research, spearheaded by Liucheng Hao from Pinggao Group Co. LTD in Pingdingshan, China, highlights the critical role of toughening mechanisms in enhancing the performance of these materials under both tension and high electric fields.
The study reveals that the intrinsic toughening mechanisms of different epoxy formulations can lead to substantial variations in their strain responses. For instance, EP-B demonstrates superior toughness compared to EP-A, allowing it to endure higher strain levels under tensile stress. Hao noted, “Our findings show that EP-B not only withstands greater tensile forces but also exhibits a remarkable ability to endure electric fields without compromising its structural integrity.” Specifically, EP-B recorded a strain of 9278 με at 1 kN, which is 16.9% greater than EP-A, and an impressive 9767 με at 10 kV/mm under electric fields, surpassing EP-A by 19.3%.
The implications of these findings are particularly relevant for the construction sector, where the reliability and durability of materials used in electrical infrastructure are paramount. As cities increasingly rely on robust electrical systems, the ability to develop epoxy resins that can maintain performance under extreme conditions is crucial. The introduction of aluminum oxide (Al2O3) as a composite filler further enhances the material properties, although it slightly reduces the strain capacity of EP-Bcom compared to EP-B. However, it still surpasses EP-Acom, showcasing the potential for tailored composite materials in high-stress applications.
Hao’s research utilized advanced techniques such as two-dimensional digital image correlation (2D-DIC) and three-dimensional DIC (3D-DIC) to accurately measure strain distributions. This level of precision in understanding material behavior under operational conditions is a game-changer for engineers and designers in the construction industry. “With more uniform strain distribution, we can predict the performance of these materials in real-world applications more accurately,” Hao added.
As the construction industry continues to evolve, the integration of such advanced materials could lead to safer and more efficient designs in electrical infrastructure. The findings from this study, published in ‘IET Nanodielectrics’ (translated as ‘IET Nanodielectrics’), could pave the way for future innovations in composite materials, enhancing their applications in various sectors beyond just electrical engineering.
For more insights into this groundbreaking research, visit Pinggao Group Co. LTD.