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Photographic gallery.  Thousands of particles under the microscope.

Sister Unit of Failed Bushing

This shows the areas sampled using Scotchbrand Frosted "Magic" tape. Tapelifts preserved the particle distribution qualitatively and quantitatively and allows for a detailed particle and chemical analysis of the materials on the surface of the bushing.

Macrophotograph

Definition/Function:

The particles on the surface of this bushing showed high concentration of weld debris along with nitrates and gypsum. The nitrates deliquesced at 48% relative humidity. This is consistent with ammonium nitrate, a fertilizer and an areosol common near heavily traveled roads. The flashover occured in the morning and was the result of the combination of the weld residue and the electrolyte. Bushings away from the welding activity were not failing.

Significance in the Environment:

Characteristic Features:

Associated Particles:

References: