Towards modeling partial discharge phenomena using the Transmission Line Matrix (TLM) method

Partial discharge is the phenomenon where high field strength causes charge build up and subsequent discharge within the body of the dielectric a power transmission line. Such a discharge is likely to occur at sites of imperfections, gas bubbles and other inhomogeneities. These can be the cause of serious deterioration in the dielectric which can lead to total failure of the dielectric. The standard model of the site of the discharge is a capacitor with a switch to represent the discharge. Simulation of the discharge is frequently undertaken through mathematical modeling. However, this analysis generally does not account for the full transmission line, allowing for multiple discharge sites and external field coupling that might accompany phenomena such as lightning. This research is directed to developing a simulation workbench that can be used to investigate partial discharge models and how those models operate within a transmission line. This paper discusses some of the challenges of simulating the standard model and possible options for a more practical approach.