G10 Epoxy Fiberglass Tube Applications in Power Plant Electrical Systems

1. Introduction to G10 Epoxy Fiberglass Tube G10 Epoxy Fiberglass Tube is a high-performance insulating material man...

1. Introduction to G10 Epoxy Fiberglass Tube

G10 Epoxy Fiberglass Tube is a high-performance insulating material manufactured by impregnating glass fiber fabric with epoxy resin and curing it under high temperature.

Key properties include:

• High dielectric strength (≥18 kV/mm) for excellent electrical insulation
• High mechanical strength (flexural strength ≥340 MPa) to withstand mechanical and structural loads
• Thermal class B (130°C) for long-term stability in high-temperature environments
• Low water absorption, oil resistance, moisture and corrosion resistance for harsh operating conditions
• Dimensional stability and precision machinability, making it adaptable for custom applications

These features make G10 tubes widely used in high-voltage equipment, control systems, and auxiliary components throughout power plants.

2. Specific Applications in Power Plants

2.1 Generator Systems

G10 tubes in generators primarily provide insulation and structural support:

• Insulating sleeves for stator winding leads to prevent short circuits and arcing
• Support tubes for stator windings to maintain coil spacing and reduce vibration wear
• High-voltage lead protection tubes to protect against mechanical damage and electrical stress

Requirements: High dielectric strength, thermal stability, arc resistance, dimensional stability.

2.2 Main Transformers

In transformers, G10 tubes are used as:

• Insulating tubes for high-voltage leads
• Oil-immersed insulating support components inside the transformer
• Connection and fixing tubes at transformer terminals

Their oil resistance, low water absorption, and thermal aging resistance enable reliable performance in high-voltage, high-temperature, oil-filled environments.

Requirements: Oil resistance, moisture resistance, high dielectric strength for oil-insulated systems.

2.3 Switchgear and Busbar Systems

G10 tubes provide a dual function of structural support and insulation protection in switchgear and busbar systems:

• Busbar support and phase separation tubes maintain safe distances between phases
• Busbar fixing posts and insulating sleeves support mechanical loads
• Arc-resistant tubes prevent short circuits and arc discharge

Requirements: High mechanical strength, dimensional stability, moisture and corrosion resistance, arc resistance.

2.4 Control and Protection Systems

In control panels and relay protection devices, G10 tubes serve as:

• Insulating support rods, terminal holders, and cable protection sleeves
• Insulating spacing components for protective relays
• Stable insulation in high-temperature, humid, and vibrating environments

Requirements: Good machinability, thermal stability, moisture resistance.

2.5 Other Auxiliary Equipment

G10 tubes are also used in auxiliary power plant systems, including:

• Cable protection sleeves
• Insulating support brackets and spacers
• Corrosion- and moisture-resistant structural fixing components

3. Key Selection Criteria for G10 Tubes

Selection Aspect	Description	Recommended Parameter / Suggestion
Insulation Class	Determines thermal resistance	Class B (130°C); for higher temperature, select G11 (155°C)
Dielectric Strength	Electrical insulation capability	≥18 kV/mm
Mechanical Strength	Resistance to compression and bending	Flexural strength ≥340 MPa; Compressive strength ≥300 MPa
Water Absorption	Moisture resistance	≤0.1%, suitable for humid or oil-filled environments
Surface Treatment	Depends on application environment	Optional arc-resistant or moisture-proof coating for electrical equipment
Dimensions	Based on installation	Inner diameter 10–300 mm, wall thickness 3–20 mm, customizable length
Operating Environment	Installation location	Oil-resistant type for oil applications; high-strength type for air environments

4. Typical Selection Recommendations

Application	Recommended Material	Features & Reason
Generator winding lead tubes	G10	High insulation, thermal stability
Transformer lead and oil-immersed tubes	G10 / G11	Oil-resistant, moisture-proof, long-term stability
Busbar support and switchgear isolation	G10	High mechanical strength, arc-resistant
Control panels and relay systems	G10	Easy to machine, reliable insulation

5. Conclusion

G10 Epoxy Glass Fiber Tubes are indispensable insulating and structural support materials in power plants. They provide reliable performance under high-temperature, high-voltage, strong electric field, and harsh operating conditions. Widely used in generators, transformers, switchgear, busbar systems, and control equipment, G10 tubes ensure safety, stability, and long-term reliability of electrical systems.