Study on the Operating and Aging Characteristics of RTV (Room Temperature Vulcanizing) Insulator Strings in High-Altitude Areas

As an indispensable component of power transmission systems, the performance of porcelain insulators directly impacts the reliability and operational stability of electrical networks. To enhance the anti-fouling flashover capability of transmission lines, porcelain insulators are commonly coated with RTV (Room Temperature Vulcanizing) silicone rubber coatings. However, the unique environmental conditions prevalent in high-altitude regions, such as those in Qinghai, impose distinctive stresses on the performance and longevity of RTV coatings. This study provides an in-depth analysis of the operational and aging characteristics of RTV-coated porcelain insulators under such extreme conditions, with a focus on evaluating performance degradation mechanisms. By conducting comprehensive field investigations of climatic and environmental parameters in Qinghai, this research elucidates the effects of high-altitude environments on RTV coatings and proposes a systematic methodology for detecting and analyzing aging-related phenomena. This study discerns the aging patterns of insulator surface coatings in high-altitude regions and examines the pollution accumulation mechanisms of insulators under adverse climatic conditions. These findings offer critical insights for optimizing the selection, maintenance, and replacement strategies of insulators in high-altitude transmission networks, thereby enhancing the safety, reliability, and operational efficiency of power systems in such challenging environments.