Suspended Droplets Discharge Characteristics

ABSTRACT This study investigates discharge phenomena in suspended droplets using needle–needle electrodes. By employing ultrasonic suspension technology for noncontact droplet suspension and high‐speed cameras for capturing time‐resolved discharge images, the study examines the impact of droplets on discharge characteristics and morphology. Results show that droplets alter the electric field distribution, affecting discharge paths. Low‐conductivity droplets hinder discharge, causing deflection or changes in the discharge channel, whereas high‐conductivity droplets act as suspended electrodes, facilitating discharge channel formation, reducing breakdown voltage and shortening the establishment time. Droplets transition from ellipsoid to flat and back during discharge, with high‐conductivity droplets potentially undergoing liquid explosion. These findings are crucial for designing high‐voltage equipment in liquid‐contaminated environments.