Silicone Coatings and Covers: Answers to 5 Frequently Asked Questions



The usage of silicone coatings and covers is increasing and becoming popular, especially the RTV ones, due to their advantage of minimizing the chances of flashover of contaminated insulators. Since high-voltage insulators are mounted outside, they are subjected to many stresses, such as environmental stresses. Environmental stresses can include UV radiation, strong rainfall, stormy weather, dew formation, or pollution. Silicone coatings and covers can avoid the contamination of the insulator and reduce the frequent need for maintenance and scheduled routines, thereby saving a lot of money on it.

What is the difference between RTV and silicone coatings?

Whenever you search for silicone coatings and covers for high-voltage insulators, you must have come across the term RTV coatings. This must have confused you between RTV and silicone coatings.

RTV (room-temperature vulcanizing) and silicone coatings are both types of silicone-based coatings, but they have some differences in their application, cost, and properties.

While RTV stands as a general term for room temperature vulcanizing silicone, "silicone’ is a polymer material having repeating units of siloxane. In terms of cost and usage, RTV is more expensive as compared to silicone coatings, and the usage in general products is also limited, thereby making silicone coatings a more practical and cost-effective option.

Is 100% silicone better than RTV coating?

It depends on the application. 100% silicone coatings prove to be very helpful in household applications. They provide a strong, waterproof seal. Plus, 100% silicone will have good adhesion, less shrinkage, and a lower temperature for application to weathering.

While RTVs remain suitable for high-voltage insulators and for Wildlife And Asset Protection. Their demand is increasing due to their advantages. They have insulation properties, especially under wet and stormy conditions, which makes them ideal for high-voltage insulators as they are placed outside.

Does silicone react with anything?

Due to its low surface energy and non-reactive structure, silicone is resistant to attack by most chemicals. However, it is important to note that a few inorganic chemicals, notably sulfuric and hydrofluoric acids at high concentrations, can damage silicones. Organic compounds that might act as solvents, such as toluene, mineral spirits, gasoline, and carbon tetrachloride, cause deterioration in silicones only after prolonged exposure.

How long would it take to make the silicone coating dry?

The first silicone coating takes 3 to 12 hours to dry. Once the first coat is dry, you can apply the second coat. Never apply in temperatures below freezing and above 120 °F (49°C) or in cases where rain is expected within 2 hours.

Where can I find reputable suppliers or manufacturers of silicone coatings for high-voltage insulators?

Though the internet is flooded with silicone coating manufacturers, if you are looking for a trustworthy manufacturer, the one name that stands out among the rest is Midsun IKM.

Midsun IKM is a leading manufacturer and international business development division of Midsun Group Inc., an American company that has helped power utility companies prevent flashovers (animal-induced power outages) and save millions of dollars in repair costs. Midsun manufactures Wildlife Outage Protection Products including RTV coatings for high-voltage insulators, silicone coatings, and wildlife-protective silicone covers.

Conclusion 

Silicone coatings are known for a range of benefits, from providing protection from several contaminants to requiring less maintenance. This blog addresses five questions that are frequently asked, and we have tried to answer them.

I hope it helps. Thank you for reading!
Location: Australia

Popular posts from this blog

Guarding Power Systems and Wildlife: The Role of Animal Outage Protective Covers

The point of interaction between the equipment and wildlife, such as birds or scavenging carnivores, is the most vulnerable one. The animals constantly threaten the safe operation assets of the electrical transmission systems. This has an impact on the global economy owing to sudden power losses. With the goal of maintaining high system reliability, animal outage protective covers are one such solution to achieve that. In this article, we’ll discuss the role of animal outage protective covers and where you can purchase them. Factors leading to a growing interest in animal outage protective covers To achieve high system reliability To maintain high system reliability, power transmission lines must be protected from animal outages. Through the selective application of well-designed wildlife outage protection products like animal outage protective covers, you can save huge losses from sudden power outages and also aid wildlife protection. Damage to expensive assets The interaction betw
Read more

How To Avoid Corrosion On Electrical Assets

Image
Are you tired of witnessing the relentless damage caused by corrosion on your valuable electrical assets? The battle against rust not only drains your finances but also jeopardizes wildlife and asset protection . It's time to take charge and implement effective strategies to avoid corrosion on your electrical assets. In this listicle, we will unveil five powerful techniques that will not only save you money but also contribute to wildlife and asset protection. Conduct Regular Inspections: The Key to Early Detection Regular inspections act as the first line of defense against corrosion on your electrical assets. By conducting frequent visual inspections, utilizing specialized equipment, and performing comprehensive assessments, you can swiftly identify any signs of corrosion. Remember, early detection is crucial in preventing further damage and minimizing repair costs. Take a proactive approach and ensure you inspect your electrical assets frequently to catch corrosion in its early
Read more