In order to improve the artificial pollution tests of composite insulators

we investigated the influence of air flow on the hydrophobicity transfer of polluted high temperature vulcanized（HTV） silicone rubber through experimental artificial pollution tests.In the tests

samples were dried in two groups of sealed containers between which air flow conditions were significantly distinguished. After measuring the static contact angle and the area of droplets on the pollution layers

we compared the surface hydrophobic states of the samples. Test results show that a good air flow condition helps to keep pollution layer dry and hence improves the pollution’s capability of getting hydrophobicity.Whereas

in the case of lacking air flow

the hydrophobicity transfer process of samples is slowed down

and the hydrophobicity state of pollution layers is sensitive to environmental changes.In conclusion

the hydrophobicity transfer process of composite insulator is affected by various environment factors including air flow

a new one that needs to be taken into consideration.The obtained results are useful for further understanding the process of hydrophobicity transfer

as well as improving the artificial pollution tests of composite insulators.