HV-insulation of simple forms

The operational reliability of high-voltage power equipment depends mainly on the quality of its electrical insulation. The main characteristics determining insulating structure (IS) quality are: flashover voltage distribution (FOV); and voltage-time curve (VTC). It is currently thought that FOV follows the normal symmetrical law of distribution, while the VTC is inversely proportional to the degree function (so-called "hyperbolic type"). However, a series of IS discharge characteristics exist which differ significantly from the norm, both in flashover voltage quantity and in form. This paper discusses some results of IS investigations by the author in this area, based on research carried out in the 1980's in Russia at the RV Center of Siberian Research Institute of Energetic (Novosibirsk).