The implementation of stranded conductors in flexible gas-insulated transmission lines (FGILs) requires field intensity minimization as well as field irregularity suppression in order to avoid dielectric breakdown. Moreover, the interdependence of enclosure and conductor sizes of FGILs regarding electrostatic aspects necessitate critical consideration of their dimensional specifications. In this research, geometric and electrostatic field optimization for FGILs regarding stranded conductors is performed. In addition, the effect of conductor irregularity on field dispersion is analyzed, and a semiconducting film (SCF)-coated stranded conductor is proposed as a potential candidate for FGILs. Considering the performed optimized design, an 11 kV scaled-down model of a 132-kV FGIL was also fabricated in order to practically analyze its electrostatic and dielectric performances regarding simple and SCF-coated stranded conductors. Simulation and experimental investigations revealed that the SCF-coated stranded conductor significantly minimized the field irregularity of the FGIL along with improving in its dielectric breakdown characteristics.

Sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) is commonly used in electrical insulation networks due to its superior dielectric properties. However, it possesses a high Global Warming Potential (GWP) of 22,800 times compared to CO2 (at equal mass over a time span of 100 years) and a high atmospheric lifetime. This alarming metric prompted investigation for substitute gases with minor environmental influences. The overall objective of this research is to evaluate refrigerant R152a as a potential alternative for SF6 in electrical insulation systems. R152a gas has a significantly reduced value of GWP (140) and is a cheap insulation medium as compared to SF6. In this paper, dielectric breakdown testing of R152a and a mixture of CO2 with different concentrations have been tested. The dielectric strength of R152a/CO2 gas shows a saturated growth trend with increasing the gap difference, gas pressure and mixing ratio of R152a. Based on our experimental conditions, R152a/CO2 gas reveals good dielectric properties, and insulation performance can reach up to 96% of SF6. Finally, this work will bring a cost-effective and environment-friendly gaseous insulator for utility companies and power equipment manufacturers.

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