Transmission line matrix (TLM) simulation of the propagation of partial discharge phenomenon in transmission lines

Partial discharge phenomena impact directly on the performance of cable dielectrics. Good quality simulation tools allow investigation of the causes and effects of these events. This paper describes the development of a transmission line matrix (TLM) based tool along with initial results. The potential benefits of this approach allow detailed analysis of propagation on complex transmission lines along with the opportunity to embed detailed full wave or Multiphysics simulations of the site of the partial discharge event. Further, a time domain approach can also be used for time reversal studies, allowing the source and nature of a partial discharge to be determined from the measured data. While many of these are the subject of ongoing research, they are discussed: setting the agenda for TLM analysis of partial discharge propagation.