Document KJXMLXR0GeYYegx6r7VyZgoeX

Importance of'Askarel Dielectrics i In terms of profit contribution to our business group dielectrics rank far ahead of any other component. But this is of little importance relative to the fol lowing problems in the event that these dielectric fluids were no longer available: a) Relative to our energy shortage problem it is es- tlmated that the askarel impregnated capacitors pro duced each year in the U.S. conserve our industrial and public power to the marked degree of eliminating need for 44 large electric generators, each of the 1,000 megawatt size. This is equivalent to one-half of our national annual growth requirement for power. b) Askarel fluids are the only suitable fire-resistant capacitor dielectrics and possess thermal, chemical and electrical stability significantly superior to other known dielectrics. No replacement yields capacitors as stable and reliable as askarel units. If the failure rate of the 100 million capacitors produced in one year were to increase by as little as 1 to 3 percent (because of reduced reliability " in non-Askarel materials) the replacement costs would run from 25 to 75 million dollars. c) General Electric Co. estimates that unavailability of Askarel fluids could result in very costly and socially detrimental delays amounting to as much as one billion dollars in the construction of schools, factories, office buildings, apartment houses and commuter trains. P. G. Benignus May 9, 1974 0264B63