The Effect of Humidity and Temperature on Flashover in High Voltage Transmission Line Ceramic Insulators

Abstract

This research aims to determine the flashover voltage on the surface of porcelain insulators on 150 kV transmission lines located in Payakumbuh, where the insulators are contaminated with dust and moss due to the effects of temperature and humidity. The experiment is carried out with only up to seven insulator plates due to the limitations of the available apparatus. For the further testing, a trend analysis is applied. According to the experimental results, a rise in temperature around the insulator will increase the flashover voltage value and accelerate the potential for a flashover event. This happens because high temperatures can reduce the insulator's dielectric strength and insulation resistance and increase the risk of flashover. The dielectric strength values decreased with an average decrease of 44.62% per insulator plate for dusty insulators and 45.08% for each plate for mossy insulators. The results aim to minimize flashover on transmission lines in hilly areas with relatively high contamination.