Improving the performance of a non-uniform field system under AC voltage

The idea presented in this article involves the simulation of the distribution of field lines in a rod-plane system with a glass tubular barrier, using COMSOL Multiphysics software. This simulation aims to better understand and predict the behavior of the electric field in a system where the electrode geometry creates a non-uniform field. To validate the simulation results, an experimental study was conducted in the High Voltage laboratory. The objective of this paper is to study the behvior of the rod - plane system under very severe pollution conditions and with an alternating voltage of 50 Hz. Experimental testing compares simulation data with real results, thus ensuring the reliability of the conclusions drawn. An experimental device was designed to allow the simultaneous variation of the inter-electrode distance. This device is composed of two supports nested within each other. This innovative design enables easy adjustment of the distance between the electrodes without needing to rebuild the entire system for each modification. Tests of the breakdown voltage of the studied air interval, especially in the presence of heavily polluted barriers, were conducted to evaluate the performance and robustness of the device. A visualization of the electrical discharge path was made, to clearly identify the critical areas where these discharges occur. The results demonstrated a perfect equivalence between experimental observations and numerical simulations. This strong correlation validates the methodological approach used and confirms the reliability of the results obtained through simulation. Furthermore, it was found that using considerably long tubular barriers significantly improves the system's performance. These tubular barriers contribute to a better electrical field distribution, thereby minimizes the birth of pre-discharges and enhancing the overall stability of the system.