PD Inception and Electrical Treeing of Silicone Rubber at DC Voltage Using Electrical and Optical Measurement Equipment

This study aims on the detection of PD inception voltage and tree growth in silicone rubber under DC conditions, using a fluorescent silicone fiber sensor in combination with an optical converter and the PD measuring system as well as a camera. A typical PD source was used and embedded in model samples made of transparent silicone rubber. By means of time synchronous optical and electrical measurements at positive and negative DC voltages, the results contribute to a better understanding of the degradation of silicone rubber in DC cable accessories.