Contd.

Field evaluation of 66 kV non-ceramic insulators for use in power transmission under Indian Conditions’  

In this project, 66 kV polymeric post type insulators were field-tried at 4 locations of GEB.  These places, with different types of pollution (chemical and coastal) adversely affect the electrical installation including structures and insulators.  The study suggests that polymer concrete insulators can perform well under these conditions and it is a suitable alternative to the conventional porcelain insulators.  This Project is completed and the report is submitted to the sponsor.   

Proficiency Testing

ERDA co-ordinated the Proficiency Testing (PT) programme on PNA analysis of transformer oil sponsored by NABL.  In all, eleven labs (excluding ERDA) participated in this programme.  From the Z-score calculation, it was found that the performance of 3 labs was unsatisfactory.  This programme is completed and report is submitted to NABL.  

Development of Thermochromic Material

Thermochromic materials change colour with temperature.  Such materials find wide application in the development of temperature indicating devices.  There are two types of thermochromic materials namely reversible and irreversible.  While the reversible type materials change colour on cooling, the latter type changes colour on heating permanently.  Both these materials have been developed at ERDA in an internal project for application in a limited temperature range.   

Performance evaluation of polymeric housings 

Polymeric insulators and housings are very widely used now-a-days especially in high voltage applications.  Their performance evaluation under accelerated aging conditions is becoming extremely useful in assessing their suitability for intended use.  In this industry-sponsored project, 11 kV polymeric housings of different make are subjected to accelerated aging for 1 year.  The conditions of ageing include voltage, salt spray, rain, temperature and UV radiation. Various electrical properties will be measured during this study.  This experimental work is progress.  

ERDA has received inquiries for IP testing facilities for HT Motors having weight more than 5 tons to 40 tons. ERDA is in the process of establishing IP 5X/6X test facility for test object having weight of 40 tons. The size of IP 5X test chamber is 5.8mt. (L) x 6.8mt (w)x 5.0mt. (H). This IP 5X chamber will be largest IP test facility in India. This facility is expected to be ready for commercial purpose from 1^st January 2001. Interested may kindly contact Sr. Manager (LV & SC), ERDA, Vadodara.