Tracking Resistance in Polymeric Insulation Materials for High-Voltage Electrical Mobility Applications Evaluated by Existing Test Methods: Identified Research Needs

Abstract

With the increasing electrification of the transportation and mobility sectors, polymer insulation materials are inevitably exposed to harsher environments, including exposure to contamination, wide temperature ranges, operation at higher voltages and switching frequencies, and low-pressure environments. This paper reviews the tests to characterize the polymeric materials used in insulation systems for electric mobility applications, focusing on resistance to tracking. This paper also reports on the limitations of existing standard test methods and identifies the challenges and research needs to meet the increasing demands of the electric mobility industry. To this end, an evaluation of the scientific and technological state of the art is carried out through the analysis of theses, research articles, technical reports, manufacturers’ datasheets, international standards, and white papers.