Voltage-Current Characteristics During Propagation of a Surge Breakdown of a Point-to-Plate Gap with Insulating Barrier

A solid insulating barrier in a point-to-plate gap is a useful means for raising the positive flashover voltage. This paper examines the voltage-current-characteristic during positive and negative surge breakdown in air of the so-called barrier arrangement. The model used has a strike distance of 6 cm and a barrier of various dimensions. Photographs detail the discharge propagation. The flashover voltage depends upon position, thickness, and size of the barrier. Voltage stages of relatively constant value, lasting up to 30 Ms, suggest additional application as, surge protective device.