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Innovative Silicone Solutions for Power Grids at IEEE PES T&D 2026

Wacker Chemical Corporation is set to prominently feature its silicone technologies for transmission and distribution applications at this year’s IEEE PES T&D 2026, scheduled for May 4-7 at McCormick Place in Chicago. As the demand for reliable and innovative solutions grows in the electricity sector, WACKER is spearheading efforts to enhance the longevity and effectiveness of grid infrastructure through advanced materials designed to address various challenges, including aging assets and modernization needs.

The Importance of Silicone Elastomers

At IEEE PES T&D 2026, WACKER seeks to highlight the crucial role that silicone elastomers play in ensuring dependable performance within transmission and distribution systems. These high-performance materials are pivotal in applications requiring exceptional weather resistance, pollution resistance, and improved service life, all crucial in a climate facing increased environmental stress.

Dr. Nicolas Imlinger, Senior Director for Energy and Industrial Silicones at Wacker, stated, "The IEEE PES T&D event gathers utility and power engineering professionals committed to enhancing grid performance in tangible ways. We are eager to engage in discussions about how silicone technologies can support the reliability, durability, and long-term performance of transmission and distribution applications."

Advantages of WACKER’s Silicone Technologies

WACKER’s exhibit will illustrate the numerous advantages that silicone materials offer to the grid sector, including:

• - Weather and UV Resistance: Silicones can withstand challenging outdoor conditions, ensuring continuous operational efficiency.
• - Hydrophobic Surfaces: These surfaces help diminish the risks posed by conductive tracking and flashover, enhancing safety and reliability.
• - Contamination Performance: Silicones maintain their integrity and performance even in polluted environments.
• - Lightweight and Flexible Materials: These features facilitate easy handling and installation, ensuring lower maintenance demands over time.

WACKER plans to showcase several silicone solutions tailored for diverse transmission and distribution applications. These include rod and hollow-core insulators, arresters, bushings, coatings designed for porcelain and glass insulators, and various other essential components that play a role in today’s electrical grid systems.

POWERSIL® Portfolio Highlights

Among the featured products at the event will be components from WACKER's POWERSIL® portfolio, highlighting the company’s strong commitment to innovation. Products on display will include:

• - POWERSIL® 310, 327, and 3100: High-voltage insulators designed for optimal performance.
• - POWERSIL® 740: Ideal for cable joints, ensuring seamless integration within electrical frameworks.
• - POWERSIL® 600 and XLR 630: Versatile solutions for insulator applications.
• - POWERSIL® 567: Coatings aimed at providing robust protection for high-voltage insulator surfaces.
• - POWERSIL® 466 LV: Developed as a semiconducting grade to enhance electrical performance.

The IEEE PES T&D event serves as a vital forum for engineering professionals to tackle key challenges in transmission and distribution while exploring the latest technologies poised to bolster grid reliability and resilience. Attendees are encouraged to visit WACKER’s booth (#4084) in the South Building to gain insights into the company’s advanced silicone technologies.

About WACKER

Founded on innovation, WACKER is a global leader in the chemical industry, providing cutting-edge specialty chemical products that impact everyday life through a vast range of applications. From tile adhesives to computer chips, WACKER employs over 16,000 professionals globally, achieving annual sales exceeding €5.5 billion in the fiscal year 2025. With specialized divisions in Silicones, Polymers, Biosolutions, and Polysilicon, WACKER is well-positioned to drive advancements across multiple industries, continually enhancing performance standards and environmental sustainability.

For more detailed information, visit WACKER’s official website or follow them on their social media channels to stay updated on their latest innovations and events.