RTV SILICONE RUBBER COATINGS About
Introduction
INSILCOTE is a unique Room Temperature Vulcanised RTV silicone rubber formulation specifically developed by Mace Technologies South Africa in collaboration with the Electric Power Research Group of the University of the Witwatersrand for the prevention of pollution flashover of high voltage outdoor insulation
The exceptional hydrophobicity of INSILCOTE inhibits the formation of continuous moist conductive layers on insulator surfaces This in turn limits the flow of leakage currents thus preventing the creation of dry bands and partial discharges critical steps in the flashover process
The superior performance of silicone rubber over other insulating materials in polluted environments is well proven What makes silicone unique is the fact that owing to the migration of low molecular weight siloxanes that exist within the elastomer the water repellent properties are imparted to contaminants which accumulate on the surface Thus even when covered with a thick pollutions deposit hydrophobicity is maintained
The exceptional waterrepellency of INSILCOTE and its rapid transfer of this characteristic to any covering contamination layer coupled with silicones inherent resistance to degradation by ultraviolet radiation ozone and most chemicals combination with the use of specialised fillers to combat power arc damage enables the material to provide enhanced system reliability over a period of many years even in the most extreme environments
Technical Specifications
Sr No
Parameters
INSILCOTE HV2000
1 Application Area 11 kV to 400 kV AC 533 kV DC insulators of Porcelain Glass Resin material Ceramic make
2 Dielectric Strength BDV kVmm 64 kVmm
3 Viscosity 335 cSt
4 Specific Gravity wet 133
5 Specific Gravity Cured 124 at 25 deg C
6 Permittivity 24
7 Dielectric Constant 24
8 Surface Resitivity 115 x 10 Ohms
9 Volume Resitivity 229 x 10 Ohmmeter
10 Loss Tangent 00096 at 50 Hz
11 Dissipation Factor 00096 at 50 Hz
12 Touch Dry 15 min
13 Full Cure Time 7 Hrs
14 Required Dry Thickness 03 to 05 mm
15 Application Method Spray gun
16 Appearance after mixing Light Blue
17 Resistance to Marine salt fog Industrial Agricultural Coastal Desert conditions Water UV Chemical Acid Abrasion
18 Surface Smooth Yes
19 Hazardous UN 1866 UN 1993
20 Coverage Area Kg 235 sq meters
21 Shelf Life 1yr
Superior Electrical ProtectionFormulated for robust dielectric strength and reliable operation, RTV Silicone Rubber Coatings help prevent electrical leakage, surface tracking, and flashover in high-voltage environments. Their seamless and flexible layer ensures dependable performance for electrical substations, transformers, bushings, and switchgear, even when exposed to demanding atmospheric conditions.
Versatile and Efficient ApplicationDesigned for ease, these coatings can be applied by brush, spray, or dipping-accommodating various operational needs. Fast-drying properties allow equipment to be quickly returned to service. The recommended film thickness of 150-200 microns per coat ensures optimal coverage and protection, with typical coverage of 3-4 m2 per kilogram at 150 microns.
Long-Term Durability and Environmental ResistanceEngineered to meet IP 65-68 standards when applied correctly, RTV Silicone Rubber Coatings are UV-resistant and weatherproof. Their hydrophobic and anti-pollution properties prolong equipment lifespan, reducing maintenance intervals and minimizing outages due to environmental degradation. The product remains stable for 12 months when stored as directed.
FAQ's of RTV SILICONE RUBBER COATINGS:
Q: How should RTV Silicone Rubber Coatings be applied for optimal results?
A: The coatings can be applied by brush, spray, or dip methods on properly cleaned and dry surfaces. Ensure an even film thickness of 150-200 microns per coat and allow each layer to touch dry in about 30 minutes. Full curing is achieved in 24 hours at room temperature.
Q: What types of surfaces are suitable for this coating?
A: RTV Silicone Rubber Coatings exhibit excellent adhesion to glass, porcelain, and metal surfaces, making them ideal for electrical insulators, bushings, transformer tanks, and switchgear components.
Q: When does the coating achieve full protective properties?
A: The product is touch dry within 30 minutes of application but reaches full protective strength only after curing for 24 hours at room temperature. It then provides complete dielectric, weatherproof, and hydrophobic protection.
Q: Where can this coating be effectively utilized?
A: It is designed for use in electrical substations, on insulators, transformers, switchgear, and bushings-anywhere high-voltage protection against tracking, flashover, and environmental stress is essential.
Q: What benefits does using RTV Silicone Rubber Coating provide?
A: These coatings safeguard equipment by preventing electrical leakage, surface tracking, and flashover. They extend operational life, reduce maintenance, and impart weatherproof, UV-resistant, and hydrophobic attributes, ensuring reliable performance in extreme climates.
Q: How should unused coating be stored to maintain its shelf life?
A: Store the product in its original, unopened packaging in a cool, dry location below 30C and away from direct sunlight. Under these conditions, the shelf life is 12 months from the date of manufacture.
Q: Is the product safe to use and are there environmental considerations?
A: Once fully cured, the coating is non-toxic and its formulation complies with conventional VOC limits, making it safe for handling and environmentally responsible when instructions are followed.