What material is commonly used in the insulated booms and bucket liners of a bucket truck?

Fiberglass is commonly used in the insulated booms and bucket liners of bucket trucks due to its excellent electrical insulating properties and structural integrity. It is a composite material that is lightweight yet strong, making it ideal for use in utility vehicles that work with high-voltage power lines. Fiberglass is non-conductive, which is essential in preventing electrical shocks to the operators who may be working in close proximity to live electrical systems. This characteristic ensures safety in applications where electrical hazards are a concern.

In contrast, materials such as steel and aluminum are conductive and, while they may be strong, are not suitable for insulation purposes. Plastic, although it can provide some level of insulation, typically lacks the structural strength and durability that fiberglass offers for the demands of heavy-duty applications like bucket trucks. Thus, fiberglass stands out as the most effective choice for safety and performance in this context.