Generalised breakdown models and the integration method for predicting non-standard waveshape impulse strengths

A description is given of two generalized models of impulse breakdown, which provide a theoretical basis for the integration method. The first is a physical approach, in which the breakdown criterion is the critical size of the relevant physical process. The second is an energy approach, which proposes that breakdown follows when the energy delivered to an incipient and filamentary (prebreakdown) channel reaches a critical value. It is found that the two approaches give the integration method a reasonable theoretical basis consistent with generalized views of breakdown processes in gaseous, liquid, and solid insulants