Particle-in-cell simulations of discharge along angled insulators in compressed gases

This paper deals with the discharge along the surface of angled insulators in compressed gases using 3D finite difference particle-in-cell simulation. The simulation is carried in pure nitrogen at atmospheric pressure. The spacer angle `θ´ is measured between the inclined surface and line vertical to the electrode. The angle is positive when narrow end is connected to the anode and negative when the narrow end is connected to the cathode. The positive spacer angle shows a reduced discharge voltage for a 20mm gap length as compared to the negative spacer angle.