Investigation on the Corona Discharge in Blade-to-Plane Electrode Configuration

Abstract

The aim of this work is to analyze the characteristics of the corona discharge in blade-to-plane electrode configuration. An experimental investigation has been carried out on the geometric parameters that govern the formation of both positive and negative corona discharges, such as the inter-electrode distance, the blade-to-blade spacing, and the number of the discharging blades. The current-voltage characteristics, the breakdown voltage, and the Warburg current distribution were measured. The assisted corona discharge is an example of a blade electrode discharge that can be used to reduce the operating voltage of a conventional corona discharge. The current-voltage characteristics of both positive and negative corona discharges in a blade-to-plane electrode configuration are of the Townsend’s law form. The general formula proposed by Meng et al. can also be applied in this system. It has been shown that the breakdown voltage and the corona conductance are strongly affected by the inter-electrode distance. To obtain a maximum current, the blade electrodes should be distant from each other by a value of 2a ≥ h. To obtain a constant value of current, the blade electrodes should be separated by a value of 2a >> h, confirming the Cooperman’s law. The current density distribution is satisfied; an exponent of 5.0 is taken for positive polarity and an exponent of 4.8 for negative polarity.