Computerized Image Analysis of Dielectric Breakdown Phenomena in Polyethylene

Quantitative measurement of trees, voids, and inclusions in polyethylene insulated cables is a very tedious job which can be greatly simplified by the application of computerized image analysis. Improved sample preparation methods and the application of image analysis to the automated quantification of these features is discussed. Currently employed counting methods in which small numbers of features are measured and distributions are calculated based on predicted fits are judged excessively inaccurate to be of significant use. The work described herein concerns the initial development of this improved method of quantification of features of interest in PE insulated cable insulation and some examples of its application.