What is a main disadvantage of using porcelain as an insulator?

Porcelain is known for its electrical insulating properties, but one of the main disadvantages is its brittleness. This characteristic means that it can fracture or break under stress or impact, which can be a significant drawback when used in electrical applications where durability and resilience are important. Brittleness can lead to increased risks of failure in the structures or devices that utilize porcelain insulators, especially in environments where mechanical shock or vibration may occur.

While factors such as moisture absorption, weight, and production costs may also influence the choice of insulator materials, the fragility of porcelain has a more direct impact on its practical applications in electrical systems. This brittleness necessitates careful handling and installation, making it less favorable in certain scenarios compared to other insulating options that offer greater toughness and impact resistance.