What is one potential problem caused by a broken tie wire on an insulator?

A broken tie wire on an insulator can lead to a range of issues, but one prominent concern is the potential for radio interference. Insulators are designed to prevent electrical leakage and ensure that energy transmission remains stable and efficient. When a tie wire breaks, it can alter the position of the insulator, affecting the electrical field around it. This disruption may allow for signals to radiate improperly, leading to problems such as static or noise in radio communications.

While power failure, overheating, and leakage current are possible consequences of issues related to insulators, they are typically secondary effects that can occur under other failure scenarios or with different types of damage. Radio interference specifically connects to the integrity of the insulator's electrical field and is a direct consequence of physical changes caused by the broken tie wire. Understanding this relationship helps in recognizing the broader impacts that seemingly minor electrical components can have on overall system performance.