Propagation of AC arc on ice surfaces

The arc propagation velocity is one of the important parameters for studying flashover in air. Using a high-speed frame camera and a triangular ice sample, arc propagation on ice surfaces was investigated. It was found that the AC arc propagation process is a two-stage process; first, at a relatively low velocity, and second, when the critical length is reached, at a relatively high speed. Moreover, AC arc propagation velocity was compared to those under DC+ and DC-. The results obtained are of great interest for revealing the mechanisms of AC and DC flashover on industrial insulators under ice conditions.