Breakdownspänning

Breakdownspänning, often translated as breakdown voltage, refers to the maximum voltage a material can withstand before it starts to conduct electricity. In the context of electrical insulation, it is a critical parameter that determines the reliability and safety of electrical components and systems. When the applied voltage exceeds the breakdownspänning, the insulating material loses its dielectric properties, leading to a sudden increase in electrical conductivity and potentially catastrophic failure.

The breakdownspänning of a material is influenced by several factors, including the material's composition, thickness, temperature, and the presence of any defects or impurities. For gases, it also depends on pressure and humidity. The phenomenon of electrical breakdown can occur through various mechanisms, such as dielectric breakdown, thermal breakdown, and electrical treeing.

Understanding and accurately measuring the breakdownspänning is essential in electrical engineering for designing safe and effective insulation systems. It is used in the testing of cables, transformers, capacitors, and other electrical equipment to ensure they can operate reliably under expected voltage stresses. Standards organizations often specify minimum breakdown voltage requirements for different types of electrical apparatus. Exceeding these limits can lead to short circuits, fires, or equipment damage.