AC and DC breakdown versus thickness characteristics for rubber gloves

Experimental data for AC and DC breakdown characteristics of rubber gloves used for live-line maintenance are presented. Samples of class II, III, and IV gloves were tested (in an oil-bath vessel) to determine the AC and DC breakdown voltages V/sub B/. Sample thicknesses were measured with a micrometer. With these two sets of results, the equivalent uniform electric field strength E/sub B/ required to cause electrical breakdown (puncture) of the glove material is established. This information facilitates detailed comparative study of the electrical aspects of various classes of gloves. The breakdown field strength E/sub B/ also gives a measure of the dielectric strength of the glove material. Collected results indicate that, in general, tested gloves meet the minimum requirements imposed by existing standards. At the same time, it is observed that V/sub B/ does not vary linearly with glove material thickness (that is, E/sub B/ is not a constant parameter), indicating the conclusion that the electrical performance of rubber gloves depends not only on the material thickness, but also on other factors. The procedures can be extended to cases for which experimental data are not available and to other products and materials.<
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