ANSI/NEMA C29.

2B-2013 (R2023)
(reaffirmation of ANSI/NEMA C29.2B-2013)

American National Standard

for Insulators

Wet Process Porcelain and Toughened Glass—

Transmission Suspension Type

Secretariat:

National Electrical Manufacturers Association

Approved: May 16, 2023

Published: Aug 26, 2023

American National Standards Institute, Inc.

 NOTICE AND DISCLAIMER
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© 2023 National Electrical Manufacturers Association

 ANSI/NEMA C29.2B-2013 (R2023)
Page i

Approval of an American National Standard requires verification by ANSI

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approval have been met by the standards developer.
NATIONAL
STANDARD Consensus is established when, in the judgment of the ANSI Board of
Standards Review, substantial agreement has been reached by directly
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requires that all views and objections be considered, and that a
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Caution Notice: This American National Standard may be revised or

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Published by

National Electrical Manufacturers Association

1300 North 17th Street, Suite 900, Rosslyn, VA 22209
 Copyright 2013 by National Electrical Manufacturers Association
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International and Pan American Copyright Conventions.

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permission of the publisher.

Printed in the United States of America.

ANSI/NEMA C29.2B-2013 (R2023)
Page ii

Foreword
(This Foreword is not part of American National Standard C29.2B-2013)

This standard has its origins in one of a series of standards issued in 1952 by the Joint Committee on
Insulator Standards of the Edison Electric Institute and the National Electrical Manufacturers Association.
That original 1952 standard was designated as EEI-NEMA Standards for Wet-Process Porcelain Insulators
(Suspension Type), EEI Publication Number TDJ-52, NEMA 140-1952.

Several subsequent revisions were made and issued by the American Standards Association, Inc., and
more recently by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), as an American National Standard.
ANSI/NEMA C29.2-2012 has now been divided into two parts: C29.2A and C29.2B. C29.2A covers
insulators with shell diameters less than 9 in. (228.6 mm), and C29.2B covers insulators with shell diameters
of at least 9 in. (228.6 mm).

Proposals for modification or improvement of this standard are welcome. They should be sent to the National
Electrical Manufacturers Association, 1300 North 17th Street, Suite 900, Arlington, VA 22209, or sent via the
NEMA website (https://www.nema.org).

This standard was processed and approved for submittal to ANSI by Accredited Standards Committee (ASC)
on Insulators for Electric Power Lines, C29. Committee approval of the standard does not necessarily imply
that all committee members voted for approval. At the time it approved this standard, the ASC C29 Committee
had the following members:

Arjan Jagtiani, Chairman

Paul Crampton, Secretary

Name Organization Interest Category

Robert Bernstorf Hubbell Incorporated Producer

Ivan Boev Kinectrics Inc General
Andy Bui Bonneville Power Administration User
James Cossavella K-Line Insulators USA Inc. Producer
Nicholas DeSantis LineWorks Engineering, LLC General
Kevin Edmonds NGK-Locke, Inc. Producer
Michael Garrels Xcel Energy User
Jean Marie George Sediver USA, Inc Producer
Arjan Jagtiani Sargent & Lundy LLC General
John Kuffel EPRI General
Lan Ping Ling Preformed Line Products Producer
Patrick Maloney PPC USA, Inc. Producer
Guberson (Sonny) Mercedat Marmon Utility LLC Producer
Brian Reynolds National Grid User
Stephen Roberts Southern Company User
Andrew Schwalm Victor Insulators, Inc. Producer
Timothy Shaw EPRI General
Rick Stanley Newell-PSN, LLC Producer
Ryan Stargel Tennessee Valley Authority User
Timothy Van Remmen Lapp Insulators LLC Producer
Mike Warntjes American Transmission Co. User
Prasad Yenumula Duke Energy User

© 2023 National Electrical Manufacturers Association

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 Contents
Page

Foreword ......................................................................................................................................................... ii
1 SCOPE .............................................................................................................................................. 1
2 NORMATIVE REFERENCES ............................................................................................................. 1
4 GENERAL .......................................................................................................................................... 1
5 MATERIAL ......................................................................................................................................... 2
5.1 Insulator Shells ................................................................................................................................... 2
5.2 Shell Surface ...................................................................................................................................... 2
5.3 Metal Parts......................................................................................................................................... 2
5.4.3 Clevis insulators................................................................................................................................. 2
6 DIMENSIONS AND CHARACTERISTICS .......................................................................................... 2
7 MARKING .......................................................................................................................................... 3
8.2 Design Tests ...................................................................................................................................... 3
8.2.1 Low-Frequency Dry Flashover Test ................................................................................................... 3
8.2.2 Low-Frequency Wet Flashover Test .................................................................................................. 3
8.2.3 Critical Impulse Flashover Tests-Positive and Negative ...................................................................... 4
8.2.4 Radio-Influence Voltage Test .............................................................................................................. 4
8.2.5 Thermal-Mechanical Load Cycle Test ................................................................................................ 4
8.2.6 Thermal Shock Test ........................................................................................................................... 4
8.2.7 Residual-Strength Test ....................................................................................................................... 4
8.2.8 Impact Test......................................................................................................................................... 5
8.2.9 Cotter Key Test .................................................................................................................................. 5
8.2.10 Cement Expansion ............................................................................................................................. 5
8.2.11 Design Modification ............................................................................................................................ 5
8.3 Quality Conformance Tests5 ............................................................................................................... 5
8.3.1 Visual and Dimensional Tests ............................................................................................................ 5
8.3.2 Porosity Test ...................................................................................................................................... 5
8.3.3 Galvanizing Test................................................................................................................................. 5
8.3.4 Combined Mechanical and Electrical-Strength Test ............................................................................ 6
8.3.5 Puncture Test ..................................................................................................................................... 6
8.3.6 Verification of Coupling Lock System.................................................................................................. 6
8.4 Routine tests ...................................................................................................................................... 6
8.4.1 Cold-to-Hot Thermal Shock Test ........................................................................................................ 6
8.4.2 Hot-to-Cold Thermal Shock Test ........................................................................................................ 7
8.4.3 Tension Proof Test ............................................................................................................................. 7
8.4.4 Flashover Test .................................................................................................................................... 7

Tables

1 Metric Equivalents ............................................................................................................................. 3

2 Dimensions and Electrical Characteristics of Ball-and-Socket
and Clevis Transmission Insulators ................................................................................................... 9
3 Dimensions of Clevis Transmission Insulators Classes 52-4-L, 52-4-H, 52-6-L, 52-6-H,
52-10-L, 52-10-H, and 52-12 ...........................................................................................................11

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Figures
1 Ball-and-Socket Suspension Insulator Classes 52-3-L, 52-3-H, 52-5-L, 52-5-H, 52-8-L,
52-8-H, and 52-11 ...............................................................................................................................12
2 Clevis Suspension Insulator Classes..................................................................................................13
3 Ball Gauge for Class 52-3-L and 52-3-H Insulators ............................................................................14
4 Socket Gauge for Class 52-3-L, 52-3-H, 52-5-L, and 52-5-H Insulators ............................................15
5 Ball Gauge for Class 52-5-L, & 52-5-H Insulators ..............................................................................16
6 Ball Gauge for Class 52-8-L, 52-8-H, and 52-11 Insulators ...............................................................17
7 Socket Gauge for Class 52-8-L, 52-8-H, and 52-11 Insulators ..........................................................18
8 Schematic Representation of Thermal-Mechanical Performance Test ..............................................20
9 Impact Testing Machine ....................................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.

APPENDIX A .................................................................................................................................................21

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 ANSI/NEMA C29.2B-2013 (R2023)
Page 1

1 Scope
This standard covers transmission suspension-type insulators 9 in. (228.6 millimeters) in diameter and larger
that are made of wet-process porcelain or toughened glass and used in the transmission of electrical
energy. 1

2 Normative References
This standard is intended to be used in conjunction with the following American National Standards. When
the referenced standards are superseded by a revision approved by the American National Standards
Institute (ANSI), the revision shall apply.

ANSI C29.1-1988 (R2012), Test Methods of Electrical Power Insulators

ANSI/IEEE/ASTM SI 10-2010, American National Standard for Metric Practice

ASTM A153/A153M-09, Specification for Zinc Coating (Hot-Dip) on Iron and Steel Hardware

ASTM C151/C151M-11, Test Method for Autoclave Expansion of Hydraulic Cement

3 Definitions
See Section 2 of American National Standard ANSI C29.1-1988 (R2012), Test Methods for Electrical Power
Insulators, for definitions of terms.

4 General
4.1 Insulators shall conform in all respects to the requirements of this standard. The text and figures
supplement each other and shall be considered part of this standard.

4.2 Manufacturer’s drawings, if furnished, shall show the outline of the insulators, together with all
pertinent dimensions. Any variations in these dimensions due to manufacturing tolerances shall be indicated.

4.3 A lot shall consist of a group of insulators of the same design and manufactured under similar
conditions of production. A lot shall not exceed 10,000 insulators.

4.4 When specified in the clauses below, the following re-test procedure applies:

If only one insulator or metal part fails, or in case the average value fails to comply with the applicable test, a
new sample equal to twice the quantity originally submitted to that test shall be subjected to re-testing. If two
or more insulators or metal parts fail to comply, or if any failure occurs during the retesting, the complete lot is
considered as not complying with the requirements of this standard.

1 Note: ANSI Classes 52-1, 52-2, 52-9A, and 52-9B have been moved to ANSI C29.2A-2013.

© 2023 National Electrical Manufacturers Association

 5 Material
5.1 Insulator Shells

The insulator shells shall be made of wet-process porcelain or toughened glass. Shells shall be sound and
free from defects that might adversely affect the insulators.

5.2 Shell Surface

The surface of the shells exposed after the assembly shall be glazed for porcelain insulators.

Note: The most commonly requested color for porcelain is gray. If gray is required, it shall be in accordance with ANSI Z55.1,
and shall conform to Munsell notation 5BG 7.0/0.4 with the following tolerances:

a. Hue: ±12 (3G to 7B);

b. Value: ±0.5;
c. Chroma: -0.2 to +0.6.

Other colors are available and can be negotiated between purchaser and supplier.

5.3 Metal Parts

Metal parts, except for cotter keys, shall be made of a good commercial grade of malleable iron, ductile
iron, or steel. Ferrous parts, other than stainless steel, shall be galvanized in accordance with
ASTM A153-82.

5.4 Cotter Keys

5.4.1 Material

Cotter keys shall be made from cold-drawn wire of any of the following materials: bronze, brass, or
austenitic stainless steel.

5.4.2 Ball-and-socket Insulators

Ball-and-socket insulators shall be furnished with a positive locking device of the split cotter-key type.
Cotter keys shall be humped to maintain the key in the locked and unlocked positions, and shall have
both prongs spread to prevent complete withdrawal from the socket. The cotter key shall prevent the ball
of the adjacent insulator from unintentionally being uncoupled during normal handling and use. 2

5.4.3 Clevis Insulators

Clevis insulators shall be furnished with a hump-type cotter key, which shall prevent the cotter bolt from
unintentionally being pulled out of the insulator cap during normal handling and use. 3

6 Dimensions and Characteristics

6.1 All dimensions and other numerical values are given in customary English units. Except as
otherwise stated, metric equivalents shall be as shown in Table 1.

2 Care should be exercised during installation and use of insulator strings to prevent damage to cotter keys.
3 Interchangeability of cotter keys and cotter bolts between manufacturers is not considered, since the insulator is normally supplied
complete with these parts installed.

© 2023 National Electrical Manufacturers Association

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Table 1—Metric Equivalents 4

Inches Millimeters Inches Millimeters

1/ 0.4 1 25.4
64
1/ 0.8 4 1/2 114.5
32
1/ 1.6 5 1/4 133.5
16
1/ 3.2 5 1/2 139.5
8
1/ 12.7 5 3/4 146.0
2
17/ 13.5 6 1/8 155.5
32
9/ 14.3 6 1/4 159.0
16
5/ 15.9 6 1/2 165.0
8
11/ 17.5 7 178.0
16
3/ 19.1 8 203.0
4
13/ 20.6 10 3/4 273.0
16
7/ 22.2 11 3/4 298.0
8
15/ 23.8 12 1/4 311.0
16

6.2 Dimensions and characteristics of the insulators shall be in accordance with Figures 1 and 2 and
Tables 2 and 3. Ball gauges and socket gauges are shown in Figures 3 through 7.

7 Marking
Each insulator unit shall bear symbols identifying the manufacturer and giving the year of manufacture and
the tension-proof test load in pounds, identified by the word “TEST”. In addition, each insulator unit shall be
marked with the combined mechanical and electrical rating in pounds, identified by the symbol “M&E”. The
markings shall be legible and durable.

8 Sampling, Inspection, And Tests

8.1 General

Tests described in 8.2 shall be required only on insulators of new design. Tests described in 8.3 shall be
required on each lot of insulators. Tests described in 8.4 shall be made on each insulator.

8.2 Design Tests

8.2.1 Low-frequency Dry Flashover Test

Three insulators shall be tested in accordance with Section 4.2 of ANSI C29.1. Failure of the average dry
flashover value of these three insulators to equal or exceed 95% of the rated dry flashover value, as given in
Table 2, shall constitute failure to meet the requirements of this standard.

8.2.2 Low-frequency Wet Flashover Test

Three insulators shall be tested in accordance with Section 4.3 of ANSI C29.1. Failure of the average wet
flashover value of these three insulators to equal or exceed 90% of the rated wet flashover value, as given in
Table 2, shall constitute failure to meet the requirements of this standard.

4 These metric equivalents are not applicable to the dimensions of gauges in Figures 3 through 7, or to the impact testing machine shown in
Figure 9.

© 2023 National Electrical Manufacturers Association

8.2.3 Critical Impulse Flashover Tests—Positive and Negative

Three insulators shall be subjected to a critical impulse flashover test, positive, and three to the critical
impulse flashover test, negative, in accordance with Section 4.7 of ANSI C29.1. Failure of the average
critical impulse flashover value of these three insulators to equal or exceed 92% of the rated critical impulse
flashover value, as given in Table 2, shall constitute failure to meet the requirements of this standard.

8.2.4 Radio-Influence Voltage Test

Three insulators shall be tested in accordance with Section 4.9 of ANSI C29.1. All insulators must meet the
requirements as given in Table 2 in this standard.

8.2.5 Thermal-Mechanical Load Cycle Test

Ten assembled insulators shall be subjected to the thermal-mechanical load cycle test. The insulators, which
may be connected in series or parallel provided each is equally loaded, shall be subjected to four 24-hour
cycles of ambient air cooling and heating with a simultaneously applied minimum tensile load maintained at
60% of the rated combined mechanical and electrical strength of the insulators as described in Figure 8.
Each 24-hour cycle shall start with a cooling period during which a low temperature of –22°F (–30°C) shall be
maintained for at least a 4-hour period. A heating period will follow the cooling period. During the heating
period, a high temperature of 104°F (40°C) shall be maintained for at least a 4-hour period.

During the 4-hour extreme temperature periods, the ambient air temperature shall be maintained at the
specified extreme temperature within 9°F (5°C). The rate of temperature change is not specified. The tensile
load shall be applied at room temperature before starting the first thermal cycle. The tensile load shall be
completely removed and reapplied after the first, second, and third 24-hour thermal cycle. After the fourth
thermal cycle, upon cooling to room temperature, the tensile load shall be removed. The 10 insulators shall
then be subjected to a combined mechanical and electrical test in accordance with Section 5.2 of
ANSI C29.1. The criteria for determining conformance with the standard are as given in 8.3.4 with the
exception that no retest procedure is applicable in this case.

8.2.6 Thermal Shock Test

Five insulators shall be tested for 10 complete cycles in accordance with Section 5.5 of ANSI C29.1. The
temperature of the hot-water bath shall be approximately 205°F (96°C), and the temperature of the cold water
bath shall be approximately 39°F (4°C). Failure of any insulator shall constitute failure to meet the
requirements of this standard.

8.2.7 Residual-Strength Test

Twenty-five insulators shall have the shells broken off. No portion of the shell shall remain outside the
maximum diameter of the cap. Each unit shall then be subjected to a mechanical-strength test in
accordance with Section 5.1 of ANSI C29.1. The criteria for determining conformance to this standard are:

XR ≥ (1.2 × proof load ) +1.645SR

Where:

XR = average residual strength of 25 units;

SR = standard deviation of residual strength of the 25 units tested;
proof load = tension proof load per Table 2 and Section 7.2.1 of ANSI C29.1.

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8.2.8 Impact Test

Three insulators shall be tested in accordance with Section 5.1.2.2 of ANSI C29.1. The test specimen shall
be mounted in the test machine shown in Figure 9. All insulators must meet the requirements given in
Table 2 of this standard.

8.2.9 Cotter Key Test

For three test samples of ball-and-socket insulators, the disengagement force of the cotter key shall be
between 25 and 150 pounds (111 and 667 Newtons) force for three locking-to-unlocking operations. The
cotter key shall be placed in the locking position and a tension load applied to the eye of the cotter key along
its axis by means of an appropriate device. The loading shall be gradually increased until the cotter key
moves to the unlocking position.

8.2.10 Cement Expansion

If Portland cement is used in the assembly of the insulators, it shall have an autoclave expansion limit of less
than 0.12 percent when tested in accordance with ASTM C151, Test Method for Autoclave Expansion of
Portland Cement.

8.2.11 Design Modification

Design tests in 8.2 shall be performed when significant modifications are made to the design of the
insulator, such as changes in dimensions or materials. When the change affects only specific characteristics
of the insulator, only the design tests relevant to those characteristics need to be repeated.

8.3 Quality Conformance Tests 5

8.3.1 Visual and Dimensional Tests

Conformity with 5.2 of this standard may be determined by visual inspection. All insulators not conforming to
5.2 fail to meet the requirements of this standard.

Three insulators shall be selected at random from the lot and their dimensions checked against the
dimensions on the manufacturer’s drawing. Failure of more than one of these insulators to conform, within
manufacturing tolerances, to the dimensions on this drawing shall constitute failure of the lot to meet the
requirements of this standard.

8.3.2 Porosity Test

Specimens shall be selected from porcelain insulators destroyed in other tests and tested in accordance with
Section 5.4 of ANSI C29.1. Penetration of the dye into the body of the dielectric shall constitute failure of the
lot to meet the requirements of this standard.

8.3.3 Galvanizing Test

Five pieces representative of each type of galvanized hardware used with the insulators shall be selected at
random and tested in accordance with Section 6 of ANSI C29.1. Five to 10 measurements shall be
randomly distributed over the entire surface. Both the average thickness value for each individual specimen
and the average of the entire sample shall equal or exceed the following:

5
Substantial test experience indicates that a total of ½ of 1% of the number of insulators in the lot is sufficient to establish
characteristics demonstrable by destructive tests. For additional information, reference may be made to the ASTM Manual of
Presentation of Data and Control Chart Analysis, 6th Edition, 1990 (ASTM Manual Series; MNL7), and further references
stated therein. This manual also contains additional information on methods of computation, such as those given in 8.3.4.

© 2023 National Electrical Manufacturers Association

 Average of Entire Sample Average of Individual Specimen
Hardware (except nuts/bolts) 3.4 mil 3.1 mil
Nuts/bolts 2.1 mil 1.7 mil

If the average of one specimen, or the average of the entire sample, fails to comply with the table above, the
retest procedure in 4.4 shall be applied.

8.3.4 Combined Mechanical and Electrical-Strength Test

Ten assembled insulators shall be selected at random from the lot and tested in accordance with
Section 5.2 of ANSI C29.1. The criteria for determining conformance with the standard are as follows:

a) All insulators subjected to the combined mechanical and electrical-strength test shall equal or
exceed the rated combined mechanical and electrical strengths as given in Table 2 of this
standard.
b) For all insulators listed in Table 2.

X > Rating + 3S

Where:
X = the average value obtained on the sample insulators tested;
S = the standard deviation obtained on the sample insulators tested.

The failure mode for each sample subjected to the combined mechanical and electrical-strength test shall
be recorded.

The retest procedure in 4.4 is applicable to this test.

8.3.5 Puncture Test

Five assembled insulators shall be selected at random and tested in accordance with Section 4.11 of ANSI
C29.1. The criterion for determining conformance to this standard is:

No puncture shall occur below the specified puncture voltage.

To provide information, the test voltage may be raised until puncture occurs, and the puncture voltage
recorded.

The retest procedure in 4.4 is applicable to this test.

8.3.6 Verification of Coupling Lock System

Six ball-and-socket insulators shall be coupled in three strings of two units with the cotter key in the locking
position. Each string shall then be subjected to an attempt to disengage the ball from the socket, applying
relative movements by hand representative of those encountered in use. The disengagement of any ball
shall constitute failure of the lot to meet the requirements of this standard.

8.4 Routine Tests

8.4.1 Cold-to-Hot Thermal Shock Test

Each toughened glass shell shall be submitted to a thermal shock, bringing it from ambient temperature to a

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Page 7

temperature at least 540°F (300°C) higher, and shall be maintained at the higher temperature for at least
1 minute. All toughened glass shells that fracture do not meet the requirements of this standard.

8.4.2 Hot-to-Cold Thermal Shock Test

Each toughened glass shell shall be quickly and completely immersed in water at a temperature not
exceeding 122°F (50°C), the shell having been heated by hot air or other suitable means to a uniform
temperature of at least 180°F (100°C) higher than that of the water. All toughened glass shells that fracture
do not meet the requirements of this standard.

8.4.3 Tension Proof Test

Each assembled insulator shall be subjected to a tension proof test in accordance with Section 7.2.1 of
ANSI C29.1. The load applied shall be that shown in Table 2. All insulators that fail do not meet the
requirements of this standard.

8.4.4 Flashover Test

Each porcelain insulator shall be subjected to a routine flashover test in accordance with Section 7.1 of
ANSI C29.1. All insulators that puncture fail to meet the requirements of this standard.

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Table 2—Dimensions and Electrical Characteristics of Ball-and-Socket and Clevis Transmission Insulators6

Dimensional Values Mechanical Values Electrical Values Radio-influence Voltage

ANSI Connection Leakage Shell M&E Impact Tension Low- Low- Critical Critical Maximum
Spacing, Low- Low-
Class type distance, diameter, strength, strength, proof, frequency frequency impulse impulse
inches frequency frequency RIV at 1,000
inches inches pounds inch- pounds dry wet flashover, flashover, kHz
(mm) puncture test voltage
(mm) (mm) (kN) pounds (N- (kN) flashover flashover positive negative (µV)
voltage (kV) (kV)
m) (kV) (kV) (kV) (kV)
15,000 7,500
52-3-L B&S Type B 11 1/2 (292) 5 3/4 (146) 10 3/4 (273) 55 (6.0) 80 50 125 130 110 10 50
(67) (33.5)
20,000 10,000
52-3-H B&S Type B 11 1/2 (292) 5 3/4 (146) 10 3/4 (273) 55 (6.0) 80 50 125 130 110 10 50
(89) (44.5)

5 3/4 15,000 7,500

52-4-L Clevis 11 1/2 (292) 10 3/4 (273) 55 (6.0) 80 50 125 130 110 10 50
(146) (67) (33.5)
20,000 10,000
52-4-H Clevis 11 1/2 (292) 5 3/4 (146) 10 3/4 (273) 55 (6.0) 80 50 125 130 110 10 50
(89) (44.5)
25,000 12,500
52-5-L B&S Type J 11(279) 5 3/4 (146) 10 3/4 (273) 60 (7.0) 80 50 125 130 110 10 50
(111) (55.5)

11 30,000 15,000
52-5H B&S Type J 5 3/4 (146) 10 3/4 (273) 60 (7.0) 80 50 125 130 110 10 50
(279) (133) (66.5)
11 25,000 12,500
52-6-L Clevis 5 3/4 (146) 10 3/4 (273) 60 (7.0) 80 50 125 130 110 10 50
(279) (111) (55.5)
11 30,000 15,000
52-6-H Clevis 5 3/4 (146) 10 3/4 (273) 60 (7.0) 80 50 125 130 110 10 50
(279) (133) (66.5)
11 36,000 18,000
52-8-L B&S Type K 5 3/4 (146) 11 3/4 (298) 90 (10) 80 50 125 130 110 10 50
(279) (160) (80)
11 40,000 20,000
52-8-H B&S Type K 5 3/4 (146) 11 3/4 (298) 90 (10) 80 50 125 130 110 10 50
(279) (178) (89)
11 36,000 18,000
52-10-L Clevis 6 1/2 (165) 11 3/4 (298) 90 (10) 80 50 125 130 110 10 50
(279) (160) (80)
11 40,000 20,000
52-10-H Clevis 6 1/2 (165) 11 3/4 (298) 90 (10) 80 50 125 130 110 10 50
(279) (178) (89)
15 6 1/8 50,000 25,000
52-11 B&S Type K 12 1/4 (311) 90 (10) 80 50 140 140 125 10 50
(381) (155.5) (222) (111)
15 7 50,000 25,000
52-12 Clevis 12 1/4 (311) 90 (10) 80 50 140 140 125 10 50
(381) (178) (222) (111)
6
The former classifications, 52-3, 52-4, 52-5, 52-6, 52-8 and 52-10, have been divided into two new classifications each designated by either “-L” or “-H”. Those classes that are now suffixed by “-L” are the same as the
original classes listed in the previous editions of ANSI C29.2 and are given here for legacy purposes. The new classes suffixed by “-H” have been added to reflect the reality of the higher M&E strength ratings that have
been supplied and in use over the previous few decades.

© 2023 National Electrical Manufacturers Association

<This Page Intentionally Left Blank.>

© 2023 National Electrical Manufacturers Association

 ANSI/NEMA C29.2B-2013 (R2023)
Page 11

Table 3—Dimensions Of Clevis Transmission Insulators Classes

52-4-L, 52-4-H, 52-6-L, 52-6-H, 52-10-L, 52-10-H, And 52-12

ANSI Class ANSI Class ANSI Class ANSI Class ANSI Class ANSI Class ANSI Class
Dimensions 52-4-L 52-4-H 52-6-L 52-6-H 52-10-L 52-10-H 52-12
(See Fig. 2) (See Fig. 2) (See Fig. 2) (See Fig. 2) (See Fig. 2) (See Fig. 2) (See Fig. 2)
Unit spacing
dimension “A”, 5 3 /4 5 3 /4 5 3 /4 5 3 /4 6 1 /2 6 1 /2 7
inches
Shell diameter
dimension “B”, 10 3/4 10 3/4 10 3/4 10 3/4 11 3/4 11 3/4 12 1/4
inches
Clevis cap
dimension “C”, 11/
16
11/
16
11/
16
11/
16
11/
16
11/
16
3/
4
inches
Clevis cap
11/ 11/ 11/ 11/ 7/ 7/
dimension “D”, 16 16 16 16 8 8 1
inches
Clevis cap
dimension “E”, 11/
16
11/
16
11/
16
11/
16
13/
16
13/
16
15/
16
inches
Eyebolt
1/ 1/ 1/ 1/ 3/ 3/ 7/
dimension “F”, 2 2 2 2 4 4 8
inches
Eyebolt
dimension “G”, 17/
32
17/
32
17/
32
17/
32
1/
2
1/
2
9/
16
inches
Eyebolt
11/ 11/ 11/ 11/ 13/ 13/ 15/
dimension “H”, 16 16 16 16 16 16 16
inches
Cotter bolt
dimension “J”, 5/
8
5/
8
5/
8
5/
8
3/
4
3/
4
7/
8
inches

© 2023 National Electrical Manufacturers Association

NOTES
1 For specific diameter and tolerance, see manufacturer’s drawing.
2 The connecting length of a string of six insulators selected at random shall be equal to six times the nominal
spacing of the insulators ±3/4 in. (±19.1 mm).
3 Dimensions and tolerances shall be determined after galvanizing (where applicable), by the ball and socket gauges in
figures 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7
4 Connecting hardware parts are designated by Type according to applicable gauges as follows:
Type B defined by gauges in Figures 3 and 4.
Type J defined by gauges in Figures 4 and 5.
Type K defined by gauges in Figures 6 and 7.

Figure 1—Ball-and-Socket Suspension Insulator Classes 52-3-L, 52-3-H,

52-5-L, 52-5-H, 52-8-L, 52-8-H, and 52-11

© 2023 National Electrical Manufacturers Association

 ANSI/NEMA C29.2B-2013 (R2023)
Page 13

ALLOWABLE VARIATIONS: The lowercase letters appearing on the figure above stand for the following
tolerances. A single letter indicates a plus or minus tolerance; for example, a = ±1/64 in. When two letters
are used, the first is a plus tolerance, and the second a minus; for example, ax = 1/64 in., -0.
a = 1/64 in. c = 1/16 in.
b = 1/32 in. d = 1/8 in.
x=0

NOTES
1 For specific diameter and tolerance, see the manufacturer’s drawings.
2 All dimensions are in inches; for metric equivalents, see Table 1.
3 The connecting length of a string of six insulators selected at random shall be equal to six times the nominal spacing of
the insulators ±3/4 in (±19.1 mm).
4 Tolerances apply after galvanizing, where applicable.

Figure 2—Clevis Suspension Insulator Classes

52-4-L, 52-4-H, 52-6-L, 52-6-H, 52-10-L, 52-10-H, and 52-12.

© 2023 National Electrical Manufacturers Association

 43
ETCH 8

15/16
3 A
tx
115 xt R0.920
16 R0.123
t R0.125
R0.080

xp xn t nx
37 2 4 t 121

NO GO
8 1.314 0.743 R0.250 xt 0.745
GO R0.920 1 R0.130
4
xt 11° t
R0.125 NO GO R0.080
13
Ø16 R11
64

9 11.5° R1
16 16

xs sx
.560 1 0.495
tx mx t
1.205 0.620 1.020 xn
1.314
1 NO GO 21
464 1
R16 GO
1 R1
64
4 NO GO 2
2 1 R 1 NO GO R1
4 16 64
nx
3 GO 1.244
NO GO
METHOD OF GAGING SECTION A-A

ALLOWABLE VARIATIONS: The letters appearing on the figure above stand for the following tolerances:
for example, m = ±0.0002 in. When two letters are used, the first is a plus tolerance and the second a
minus; for example, mx = +0.0002 in., -0.0000.

m = 0.0002 in. s = 0.004 in.

n = 0.001 in. t = 0.005 in.
p = 0.002 in. x = 0.000 in.
NOTES
1 All dimensions are in inches unless otherwise indicated. For determination of equivalent metric dimensions, see
ANSI/IEEE 268.
2 “No-go” test shall be for all directions. “Go” test may be in any one direction.
3 For position (3), the pin shall not pass through the “no-go” gauge at any inclination.

Figure 3—Ball Gauge for Class 52-3-L and 52-3-H Insulators

© 2023 National Electrical Manufacturers Association

 ANSI/NEMA C29.2B-2013 (R2023)
Page 15

ALLOWABLE VARIATIONS: The letters appearing on the figure above stand for the following tolerances:
for example, m = ±0.0002 in. When two letters are used, the first is a plus tolerance and the second a
minus; for example, mx = +0.0002 in., -0.0000.

m = 0.0002 in. s = 0.004 in.

n = 0.001 in. t = 0.005 in.
p = 0.002 in. x = 0.000 in.
NOTES
1 All dimensions are in inches unless otherwise indicated. For determination of equivalent metric dimensions, see
ANSI/IEEE 268.
2 Check for “no-go” dimensions along axis A-A and B-B.

Figure 4—Socket Gauge for Class 52-3-L, 52-3-H, 52-5-L, and 52-5-H Insulators

© 2023 National Electrical Manufacturers Association

 ETCH 483

15/16
3 A tx
15
116 R0.920
xt
R0.123
t R0.125
R0.080

NO GO
xp xn t nx
387 1.314 0.743 2 R0.250 GO xt 4 t 0.745 121
R0.920 1 R0.130
4
xt 11° t
R0.125 NO GO R0.080
13
Ø16 11
R64
11.5°
9 1
16 R16

xs sx
.560 1 0.495
tx mx t
1.205 0.685 1.020 xn
1.314
1 NO GO
421 1 GO
R16
64
1
R64
1
4 NO GO 2
2 1 1
R16 NO GO R1
4 64
nx
3 GO 1.244
NO GO
METHOD OF GAGING SECTION A-A

ALLOWABLE VARIATIONS: The letters appearing on the figure above stand for the following tolerances:
for example, m = ±0.0002 in. When two letters are used, the first is a plus tolerance and the second a
minus; for example, mx = +0.0002 in., -0.0000.

m = 0.0002 in. s = 0.004 in.

n = 0.001 in. t = 0.005 in.
p = 0.002 in. x = 0.000 in.
NOTES
1 All dimensions are in inches unless otherwise indicated. For determination of equivalent metric dimensions, see
ANSI/IEEE 268.
2 “No-go” test shall be for all directions. “Go” test may be in any one direction.
3 For position (3), the pin shall not pass through the “no-go” gauge at any inclination.

Figure 5—Ball Gauge for Class 52-5-L and 52-5-H Insulators

© 2023 National Electrical Manufacturers Association

 ANSI/NEMA C29.2B-2013 (R2023)
Page 17
ETCH

ETCH
141
R31
2
p
.199 R
t 3
.080 R R0.160
1 TYP 2
n n t n t
5 1.697 0.932 t p R0.130 p 0.934 1.875

NO GO
.161 R 1.264 R

GO
1 R1.264
39 44
64 t
.156 R R0.080
143
NO GO t t
R0.188
221 1 Ø181

9.5° 9.5°
t
R0.063

p n p
0.728 0.850 0.660
p t
1.440 1.430
1 NO GO 243 n GO
ETCH 1.698
512 1
R16
4 NO GO 1
R64
1
2 2
1 1 1
R64
R16
4
3 GO n NO GO
NO GO 1.609
METHOD OF GAGING SECTION A-A

ALLOWABLE VARIATIONS: The letters appearing on the figure above stand for the following tolerances:
for example, m = ±0.0002 in. When two letters are used, the first is a plus tolerance and the second a
minus; for example, mx = +0.0002 in., -0.0000.

m = 0.0002 in. s = 0.004 in.

n = 0.001 in. t = 0.005 in.
p = 0.002 in. x = 0.000 in.
NOTES
1 All dimensions are in inches unless otherwise indicated. For determination of equivalent metric dimensions, see
ANSI/IEEE 268.
2 “No-go” test shall be for all directions. “Go” test may be in any one direction.
3 For position (3), the pin shall not pass through the “no-go” gauge at any inclination.

Figure 6—Ball Gauge for Class 52-8-L, 52-8-H, and 52-11 Insulators

© 2023 National Electrical Manufacturers Association

ALLOWABLE VARIATIONS: The letters appearing on the figure above stand for the following tolerances:
for example, m = ±0.0002 in. When two letters are used, the first is a plus tolerance and the second a
minus; for example, mx = +0.0002 in., -0.0000.

m = 0.0002 in. s = 0.004 in.

n = 0.001 in. t = 0.005 in.
p = 0.002 in. x = 0.000 in.

NOTES
1 All dimensions are in inches unless otherwise indicated. For determination of equivalent metric dimensions, see
ANSI/IEEE 268.
2 Check for “no-go” dimensions along axis A-A and B-B.

Figure 7—Socket Gauge for Class 52-8-L, 52-8-H, and 52-11 Insulators

© 2023 National Electrical Manufacturers Association

 ANSI/NEMA C29.2B-2013 (R2023)
Page 19

Figure 8—Schematic Representation of Thermal-Mechanical Performance Test

© 2023 National Electrical Manufacturers Association

 Figure 9—Impact Testing Machine

NOTES
1 The tip of the bob that strikes the insulator is a soft copper button with dimensions of 1/2-in. diameter and 1/4-in. thick with a
1
/4-in. 20 UNC threaded stud for attachment to the body of the steel bob.
2 Correct positioning of insulator for test: When the pendulum is hanging free, the point of contact between the soft copper nose
and insulator shall fall on the centerline passing through the nose of the bob.
3 Mounting the insulator: The eye bolt A is adjusted by nuts 1 and 2 to bring the lower edge of the rim of the unit to be tested to
within approximately 1/4 in. of the freely hanging pendulum nose. Nuts 1 and 2 are also adjusted to place cap B approximately
1
/4 in. away from the side of frame C. The insulator is then inserted and tightened with nut D so that cap B is drawn firmly
against frame C. The insulator is then under a load of 2,000 pounds and is in the proper position, and the effect of the spring is
eliminated. The pendulum and scale are moved up or down to obtain the correct position.
4 Determining effective weight of pendulum: Raise the pendulum until the indicator is opposite the 90-inch-pound mark. With the
pendulum in this position, place the copper nose of the bob on scales and add lead until the scale reads 2.57 pounds.
5 Impact testing: For impact testing of class 52-9 insulators, invert the steel bob from the position shown in the figure and shorten
the steel tube to maintain the 35-in. pendulum length.
6 Spring specification: The spring is made of 1/2-in.-diameter steel wire, so treated and constructed that a force of 2,000 pounds
will compress the spring 0.25 in. in overall length.
7 All dimensions are in inches unless otherwise indicated. For determination of equivalent metric dimensions, see
ANSI/IEEE 268.
8 Tube to be welded at axle and pinned at bob.
3
9 /8-in. bolts unless noted.
10 All members made of steel, painted unless otherwise noted.

© 2023 National Electrical Manufacturers Association

 ANSI/NEMA C29.2B-2013 (R2023)
Page 21

Appendix A
(This appendix is not part of American National Standard C29.2B-2013;
it is included for information only)

Packaging
Packaging of an insulator should be such as to afford reasonable and proper protection to the insulators
in shipping and handling.

Each box or container should be marked with the number of insulators contained therein, the catalog
number, class number, or a description of the contents, and the manufacturer’s name.

© 2023 National Electrical Manufacturers Association