ENGINEERING – ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING (POWER) CALCULATOR
Corona Inception Voltage
A precise tool.
What is the Corona Inception Voltage & How does it work?
Corona discharge occurs when the electric field around a conductor exceeds the ionisation strength of the surrounding air. The point at which this happens is called the corona inception voltage (CIV). It depends on the conductor geometry, surface condition and atmospheric parameters.
For a single round conductor above a grounded plane, Peekβs empirical formula is widely used. The formula relates the CIV to the conductor radius, the distance to the ground plane, an irregularity factor that accounts for surface roughness, and the airβdensity correction factor.
By inserting realistic values for the breakdown strength of air (β30β―kVβ―cmβ»ΒΉ at sea level) and converting units consistently, engineers can quickly estimate the voltage at which corona will start, allowing them to design insulation and spacing that minimise power losses.
V_{c}=m,g,r,ln!left(frac{4,h}{r}right)
Vc = corona inception voltage (kV)
m = irregularity factor (β)
g = air breakdown strength (kVβ―cmβ»ΒΉ)
r = conductor radius (cm)
h = height above ground (m)
m = irregularity factor (β)
g = air breakdown strength (kVβ―cmβ»ΒΉ)
r = conductor radius (cm)
h = height above ground (m)
Parameters
Result
β
Frequently Asked Questions
What is corona inception voltage?
Corona inception voltage (CIV) is the point at which the electric field around a conductor exceeds the ionization strength of the surrounding air, leading to corona discharge.
How does Peek’s empirical formula relate to CIV?
Peek’s empirical formula relates the CIV to the conductor radius, distance to the ground plane, and an irregularity factor that accounts for surface conditions.
What factors affect the corona inception voltage?
The corona inception voltage depends on the conductor geometry, surface condition, and atmospheric parameters such as temperature and humidity.
Can this calculator be used for any type of conductor?
This calculator is specifically designed for a single round conductor above a grounded plane. Other conductor geometries may require different formulas.
What is the purpose of calculating CIV?
Calculating CIV helps in designing electrical systems to avoid corona discharge, which can cause power loss and interfere with radio communications.
How accurate is Peek’s empirical formula for CIV?
Peek’s empirical formula provides a good approximation for the corona inception voltage under typical conditions, but accuracy may vary with specific environmental factors.
Can this calculator be used in real-time applications?
While this calculator can provide quick estimates, it is best used as a preliminary tool. Real-time applications may require more detailed modeling and measurements.
Results are for informational purposes only and do not constitute professional advice.