Proven Insulator Performance in Salt-Laden Coastal Conditions

The Challenge

In coastal regions of the Netherlands, high salt content in the air presents a persistent threat to transmission line insulators. Similar to conditions along the Brazilian coast, the Dutch shoreline often experiences dense fog and mist saturated with saline particles from the North Sea. When this salt settles on insulator surfaces, it can create conductive paths that heighten the risk of electrical discharge or flashover events.

The Solution – Optimized Steep Shed Geometry

To address this issue, Dutch transmission operators have implemented high-performance insulators specifically designed for severe environmental exposure. PPC Porcelain Long Rod insulators, engineered with an advanced steep shed profile, offer advanced pollution performance against heavy salt contamination.

The steeply angled sheds promote rapid drainage of moisture, minimizing surface wetting and reducing the potential for the formation of a conductive slurry. The enhanced creepage distance offered by the shed geometry provides an added layer of defense, supporting consistent dielectric performance even in heavily polluted settings.

Porcelain, as a base material, delivers long-lasting durability and resistance to UV exposure, thermal stress, and marine corrosion. Unlike some composite alternatives, porcelain retains its mechanical integrity and insulation quality over decades, making it ideal for demanding coastal installations.

Outcome

By deploying PPC Porcelain Long Rods with steep shed configurations, Dutch utilities ensure stable grid performance in foggy, salt-rich coastal environments. This reliable solution contributes to the ongoing safety and efficiency of transmission infrastructure.

Talk to a PPC engineer today to explore how Porcelain Long Rods can improve your insulator performance in harsh conditions.