This thesis deals with the practical aspect of the laboratory examination of contaminated insulators. A technique which gives a pollution curve for cylindrical insulator models is described. The technique is later extended to apply to practical insulator shapes, giving curves which can be used to assess insulator performance. A method of applying these curves to results obtained in the field is suggested. The method takes into account the effect of insulator shape and weather conditions, on the accumulation of contaminant at a given test site. In addition, a system is described whereby leakage currents from contaminated insulators can be measured and recorded. Typical results obtained are given as examples of system application.

Includes bibliographical references.