Dynamic development model for long gap discharge streamer-leader system based on fractal theory

Abstract Establishing a long air gap discharge model considering the streamer-leader transition and randomness of the discharge path is of great significance to improve the accuracy of discharge characteristic prediction and optimize external insulation design. Based on fractal theory and thermal ionization theory of streamer-leader transition, this work establishes a dynamic development model for the long air gap discharge streamer-leader system, which includes streamer inception, streamer development, leader inception, development of streamer-leader system and final jump. The positive discharge process of a 3 m rod plate is simulated to obtain the fractal distribution of the discharge path and the law of leader development for comparison with the discharge test results. The results show that the simulation model is similar to test results in the development characteristics of leader path distribution, each stage time and leader velocity. Finally, a simulation calculation of a 50% breakdown voltage of the rod-plate gap and ball-plate gap is carried out, with results fairly consistent with test data, proving the effectiveness and practicality of the model.