Currents in a HV cable in the presence of a conductive contaminant

Abstract

The presence of a conductive contaminant within the insulation of a high voltage cable is at the origin of a conduction current likely to heat the insulation and lead to its deterioration.Unlike the gas cavity (insulating defect), a very small conductive contaminant generates a very high electrical electric field. These fields are harmful and favor the creation of electrical trees.