Numerical analysis of the criteria of arc root jump in lightning sweeping on resistive surface

Abstract

Lightning sweeping phenomenon is known to occur frequently when lightning strikes the high-speed moving objects with a velocity greater than the migration speed of positive ions. The jumping behaviors of arc roots on the connected resistive surface are key parameters in lightning protection of fast-moving objects. Whereas, the mechanisms of the arc root jump are still not understood. This work focuses on numerical analysis of the criteria in arc root jump in lightning sweeping on the resistive surface. The threshold of potential difference required in air gap breakdown between the arc column and the resistive surface is calculated when the jump behavior of arc root arises. The minimum arc column length led to the potential difference is deduced. Lastly, the criteria considering both the mechanisms of voltage breakdown and the maintenance of the newly-formed arc channel are put forward in arc root jump. The conclusions contribute to the modeling of arc sweeping of lightning and its protection.