Thermal Conductivity Analyser

One of the most important properties of a material is thermal conductivity. Heat is generated in high voltage, high power electrical equipment (e.g. generators, transformers, high frequency drives) due to electrical dissipation and conductor resistance. The excess heat if not properly dissipated then insulation fails therefore rated current of a product is limited by thermal conductivity of insulating material. For example, power cable current rating depends on thermal conductivity of insulation, sheath and soil (underground laying). In transformers, thermal conductivity of oil plays an important role for in-service performance of transformer. Therefore, development of better materials for electrical applications requires understanding of thermal conductivity. ERDA has established facility for measuring thermal conductivity of materials. This facility will be used for ERDA’s research activities for development of advanced materials for electrical applications. ERDA will also support electrical and its allied industries for their developmental work where thermal conductivity is a critical parameter.

Thermal Conductivity Measurement Standards followed: ASTM D7984 and ISO 22007-2

Thermal conductivity of following types of materials can be measured:

·        Electrical insulating materials: epoxy, PVC, etc.

·        Thermally insulating materials: expanded polystyrene, ceramics

·        Thermally conducting materials: steel/copper

·        Liquids: transformer oil

Thermal Conductivity Analyser with test sample and a sensor