Measurement and modelling of partial discharge behaviour in a spherical cavity within a solid dielectric material as a function of applied voltage amplitude

Partial discharge (PD) activity is always linked to insulation degradation, which can affect the performance of the insulation. Therefore, measurement of PD events can be used to assess the condition of the insulation. To assist the assessment of the performance of insulation materials, modelling of PD events can be used to attain a better understanding of this phenomenon. In this paper, a Finite Element Analysis (FEA) model for simulation of PD activity within a spherical cavity in a homogeneous dielectric material has been developed. The model has been used to study the influence of amplitude of the applied voltage on PD activity. Through comparisons of simulation and measurement results, some parameter values in the model are seen to be dependent on the applied voltage amplitude.