Comparison of high temperature breakdown behaviour in low and high density polyethylene

Abstract

A better understanding of high temperature dielectric properties of polyethylene is needed to improve its performance as insulation in underground power cables. In this paper we present new data on the electrical breakdown strength, Eb, of high density polyethylene (HDPE) measured between 23 and 160°C. These results are compared with those of low density polyethylene (LDPE) [1], and the combined data are discussed in the framework of a recently proposed model of electrical breakdown [1-2].