Effects of high frequency voltage stress on air insulation and solid insulation

Air insulation and solid insulation are the most common approaches to achieve adequate electrical insulation. However, with the increase in instances of high-frequency voltage stress, there are important differences in dimensioning these product safety approaches. This paper discusses the phenomenon of partial discharge, and its impact on the behavior of clearances, creepage distances, and solid insulation respectively. To shorten the learning curve for a new procedure for determining clearances, a flowchart developed to identify the key distinguishing factors to be considered is also presented. Finally, a case study of an example switch mode power supply is discussed.