What is meant by "environmental stress" concerning electrical insulation?

The term "environmental stress" in the context of electrical insulation refers to various external factors that can influence the performance and durability of the insulation materials. These factors include temperature fluctuations, which can cause expansion and contraction of materials; moisture, which can lead to insulation breakdown through processes like corrosion or mold growth; and pollution, such as dust or chemical deposits that may degrade insulation properties over time.

Understanding these external influences is crucial for ensuring the longevity and reliability of electrical insulation systems. Addressing environmental stress enables engineers and technicians to choose appropriate materials and design systems capable of withstanding the anticipated conditions in their operational environment. In contrast, aspects like internal factors related to the material’s age or usage, handling damages, or limitations of wet conditions alone do not fully encompass the broad scope of environmental stress on insulation.