The development has been driven by customer feedback and the update of the IEC test standard to IEC 60383-1:2023. The result is a more durable, more reliable, and longer-lasting pin insulator for today’s overhead line applications.
Reliability for Demanding Conditions
In the new pin insulators, creepage distance and insulation thickness have been increased to meet tightened requirements. In addition, semiconductive coatings have been added to the insulator neck and thread to guide and reduce electric fields. These improvements enhance the insulator’s durability and operational reliability even in challenging conditions.
Verified RIV Performance Protects Against Partial Discharges
The semiconductive layers on the neck and epoxy thread enable compliance with the tightened RIV (Radio Interference Voltage) limits of the updated standard. Field observations suggest that changes in pole preservatives have increased the risk of partial discharges, which may, over time, weaken insulator performance. The new design of Ensto’s pin insulator minimizes this risk and ensures long-term operational reliability.
The new pin insulators are manufactured and tested fully in accordance with IEC 60383-1:2023. Each insulator undergoes routine and sample tests – including mechanical, electrical, and material tests – to ensure consistent quality.
Ease of Installation
Ease of installation has been a key focus in the design of the new product. The insulators feature an integrated plastic sleeve in the top groove, enabling smooth and efficient conductor stringing during installation. This eliminates the need for separate pulling wheels and allows faster, safer workflows in the field.
Technical information of Pin Insulator SDI38
- Highest system voltage 24 kV
- Lightning impulse withstand voltage ≥ 125 kV
- Wet withstand voltage ≥ 50 kV
- Creepage distance 384 mm
- Breaking load 12.5 kN
- Weight 4.6 kg
- Type tested according to IEC60383-2023
A Reliable Choice for Pin Crossarms – and a New Alternative for Line Post Applications
In addition to the renewed pin insulators, Ensto has introduced the new SDI88.37M20 composite line post insulator with tension fitting. Line post insulators are widely used in 24 kV overhead networks in countries such as Norway, Sweden, and Poland, whereas pin insulators are the standard choice in 12 kV networks, for example in Ireland and the UK. The expanded product family provides distribution network operators with a broader and more modern set of options for network construction.
Read more about line post insulators
Ensto's New Generation of Insulators
Recently, Ensto has renewed its whole insulator product family, which has been designed to set a new standard in performance, reliability, and ease of use. Guided by customer insights and evolving installation practices, the entire insulator portfolio has been designed to meet the demands of future networks.
Ensto’s new generation of insulators delivers dependable performance year after year ensuring that your network stays strong, safe, and future-ready.
