Relation between dry band arc discharge development and erosion shape on the silicone rubber

This paper describes the results of experiments made to examine the erosion of alumina trihydrate filled silicone rubber exposed to dry band arc discharges. The eroded shape and weight loss of each sample, caused by the dry band arc discharges, were evaluated. The eroded amounts of the silicone rubbers aged in dry band arc discharge by changing in electrolyte conductivity were measured. The average weight loss was also experimentally obtained. The weight loss was compared with that calculated by considering the eroded shape and the density of the rubber aged in different conditions. Based on the results, the relation between the erosion shape and the dry band arc discharge was discussed.