J.M.G.

aim of this paper is to show the results of evaluations of new (t=0) and laboratory aged samples of surge arrester, pin and anchorage polymeric insulators, for 15 kV and 25 kV networks, of Rio Grande Energia (RGE). The polymeric compounds were analyzed by Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA) and Dynamic-Mechanics Analysis (DMA), with objective of verifying changes in properties considering the possibility of degradation. The samples were analyzed by Fourier Transformed Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and for Scanning Electronic Microscopy (SEM). These analyses had been carried out before and after six months of laboratory aging (weather-ometer, 120°C temperature, salt spray, water). After these aging, high-voltage electric tests are also carried out: Radio Interference Voltage (RIV), Leakage Current and Impulse Current, to verify the superficial degradation of the polymeric materials used in the housing. The Radio Interference Voltage test was carried out and, simultaneously, it was measured the Total and the Internal Leakage Current. These results had been taken as base. Later, the Impulse Current test was carried out with values of current closed to 5, 10 and 30 kA, with the objective of inducing a possible internal degradation. In this paper, performance requirements, obtained in laboratories, are suggested for polymeric products specifications.