Investigation of How Partial Discharges Affect Mica and Epoxy Resin: Simulations and Reference on Electrical Machines’ Insulation

Mica and Epoxy Resin (ER) are core materials employed in Synchronous Generator (SG) insulation. Partial Discharges (PDs) constitute a constant threat to the insulation system resulting in the degradation of these materials. Therefore, PD detection is of major importance for a healthy operation of SG insulation. This work discusses Offline and Online PD Tests utilizing a MATLAB/Simulink model simulating the capacitive model of PDs. The main purpose of this paper is to study factors, such as the applied voltage and the dimensions of a cylindrical void inside a solid insulation material, which affect its condition and establish their relation to PDs and Flashover Voltages (FVs). These effects can also appear in their counterpart Electrical Machines’ (EMs) insulation.