Experimental study and mathematical modelling of flashover on extra-high voltage insulators covered with ice

Using a test method developed at the high-voltage laboratory of the NSERC/Hydro-Quebec/UQAC Industrial Chair on Atmospheric Icing of Power Network Equipment (CIGELE), the relation between the minimum flashover voltage V-MF and the insulator dry arcing distance for standard porcelain station post insulators, as typically used in Hydro-Quebec substations, was investigated under icing conditions. The experimental results show that, under wet-grown ice, known as the most dangerous type of ice for power transmission systems, the VMF increases nonlinearly with an increase in insulator length. Based on these results, an improved mathematical model for predicting the critical flashover voltage versus length of ice-covered insulators is presented. This model is helpful for understanding the flashover phenomenon on ice-covered insulators and presents a powerful tool for choosing the proper length of outdoor insulators in cold climate regions. Copyright (C) 2004 John Wiley Sons, Ltd.