Investigation on electrical discharge growth over solid insulating surfaces using a 3D fractal-based model

This study presents a 3D fractal-based model to simulate the growth of surface discharges considering streamer branching. The model integrates stochastic characteristics of discharge growth by using a fractal algorithm, implemented in MATLAB, alongside electrostatic field computations via COMSOL Multiphysics. Literature experimental results on surface discharges in a needle-plane electrode bridged by insulating specimens are used to check the effectiveness of the developed model. Simulation results are in satisfactory agreement with the literature experimental data on the basis of fractal dimension. The model is a promising tool for enhancing the design and safety of insulation systems in electrical applications.