Simulation Study on Multi Physical Field Coupling Mechanism of Surface Discharge of Contaminated Insulators

Accumulation and adhesion of pollution on the surface of insulators can easily cause electric field distortion, reduce their insulation performance, lead to flashover, and seriously threaten the safe and stable operation of transmission lines. This article comprehensively considers the coupling effects of multiple physical fields such as electric field, magnetic field, flow field, and temperature field, and establishes a finite element simulation model of insulators by combining the Auburn Snow model and magnetohydrodynamics. Research has shown that polluted dry areas have a more significant distortion effect on the electric field, with an overall “V” shape in the electric field distribution. The electric field strength of large umbrella skirts is higher than that of small umbrella skirts, and the changes in current density and temperature are similar. This study deepens the understanding of surface discharge of contaminated insulators.