Research on Thermal Aging Characteristics and Mechanism of the Silicon Rubber Insulation Layer of Cable Joints

In order to solve the thermal aging problem of silicone rubber insulation layer of 220 kV integral prefabricated cable joints, the mass loss and thermal gravimetric (TG) were tested. The thermal aging mechanism of thermal degradation reaction of silicone rubber molecular chains was analyzed by gel content test and infrared spectrum test (IR). The results showed that the cross-linked network of the molecular chain structure gradually deteriorates, resulting in the increase of mass loss rate and the decrease of thermal stability. The results also showed that the increase of dual peak of differential thermal weight (DTG), the decrease of initial decomposition temperature and the remaining mass. With increasing aging temperature and aging time, the aging would be accelerated. These properties could reflect the degree of thermal aging of silicone rubber insulation layer. The results could also provide theoretical support for the preparation, operation and maintenance for silicone rubber cable joints.