This technical specification is applicable for the determination of the d.c. withstand characteristics of ceramic and glass insulators to be used outdoors and exposed to polluted atmospheres, on d.c. systems with the highest voltage of the system greater than ± 1 000 V.

These tests are not applicable to polymeric insulators, to greased insulators or to special types of insulators (e.g. insulators with semiconducting glaze or covered with any organic insulating material).

The object of this technical specification is to prescribe procedures for artificial pollution tests applicable to insulators for overhead lines, substations and traction lines and to bushings.

It may also be applied to hollow insulators with suitable precautions to avoid internal flashover. In applying these procedures to apparatus incorporating hollow insulators, the relevant technical committees should consider their effect on any internal equipment and the special precautions which may be necessary.