Durability and Long-Term Stability of Elastomeric Shock-Absorber Spacers for Power Transmission Lines under Accelerated Aging Conditions

PROJECT COST:

855 114 $

PRIMA CONTRIBUTION:

387 114 $

PROJECT DETAILS:

Quebec’s 735 kV electrical transmission lines use a four-conductor bundle that requires quadruple shock-absorber spacers. These spacers are specialized elastomer-based components developed by Hydro-Québec using an innovative articulation concept and subsequently industrialized by Helix. Because the elastomeric elements are mainly subjected to transverse compressive stresses, the spacer joints exhibit excellent fatigue resistance. Known for their efficiency, robustness, and ability to maintain conductor spacing, these shock-absorber spacers have been installed on all new Hydro-Québec transmission lines since 1980. Despite their optimized design, the spacers are exposed to several degradation factors, including wind-induced vibrations, seasonal temperature variations, corona effects, ozone and environmental pollutants, as well as frost and ice accumulation.

The main objective of this project is to acquire experimental and theoretical knowledge of the behavior of these shock-absorber spacers through laboratory-based accelerated aging tests. This approach aims to improve the understanding of environmentally induced aging mechanisms and to correlate changes in physical, mechanical, and chemical properties with aging processes. The study will also identify the aging phenomena associated with the use of elastomeric materials in these applications and establish durability and aging-resistance requirements for elastomeric materials used in shock-absorber spacers.

The knowledge generated through this project could serve as a reference for defining durability criteria for elastomeric materials used in shock-absorber spacers. It would enable Helix and Hydro-Québec to design and manufacture higher-quality and more durable shock-absorber spacers, as well as other products. These advances would benefit equipment components and accessories used in power transmission and distribution lines, telecommunications infrastructure, and related fields.

For more information on the work of Professor Phuong Nguyen-Tri’s research team, please refer to this article.