High-voltage impulse surface discharge: Influence on power system insulation and electro pulse boring

University of Zilina, Department of Physics, Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Information Technology, Univerzitná 8215/1, 010 26 Zilina, Slovakia

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Published online: 11 June 2026

Abstract

This research utilizes a unified approach to characterize high-voltage impulse surface discharge physics, providing information for three different types of materials. The study first investigates surface discharge on solid polyurethane and stone tiles materials immersed in transformer oil. By using a DC source and Marx generator, energy dissipation is quantified via current/voltage analysis. Subsequent microscopic analysis identifies degradation effects (small-cracks) crucial for insulation condition analyzation of high- voltage equipment. Based on the information obtained, the research then focused on the use of fast, sub microsecond electrical pulses for the electro pulse boring marble slab using a petal-shaped electrode drill. Characterizing the plasma channel formation and resulting high-pressure pulses is essential for optimizing pulsed power systems. Post-optimization will allow for the characterization of discharge parameters and associated morphological changes on the rock surface.