In order to study the influence of different ring-shaped scratches on the insulation characteristics of 35kV Crosslinked polyethylene(XLPE) cable terminations, the model of air-gap defects caused by ring-shaped scratches was introduced at the end of the outer semi-conductor shielding layer, and the finite element simulation calculation was used to calculate the model. The electric field distribution characteristics inside the cable terminal were simultaneously made into cable end samples of different types of scratch defects, and the discharge characteristics were tested by a partial discharge test circuit. The results show that the air gap defect caused by the annular scratch defect increases the degree of electric field distortion. The maximum electric field strength is much larger than the breakdown field strength of the air, and it is prone to partial discharge activity. The Phase Resolved Partial Discharge(PRPD) of the cable terminal with ring scratch defects The spectrum shows a typical “rabbit ear” shape. As the scratch defects deepen, the PRPD spectrum begins to gradually transition to a short-feeling “cat ear” shape.