Entladungsstärke

Entladungsstärke, often translated as discharge strength or breakdown strength, refers to the maximum electric field a dielectric material can withstand before undergoing electrical breakdown. When the applied electric field exceeds the Entladungsstärke, the material loses its insulating properties, and a conductive path is formed, leading to a sudden flow of current. This phenomenon is known as electrical discharge or dielectric breakdown.

The Entladungsstärke of a material is a crucial parameter in electrical engineering, particularly in the design of high-voltage equipment such as capacitors, transformers, and cables. It determines the thickness of insulation required to prevent electrical failure and ensure the safe operation of these devices. Factors influencing the Entladungsstärke include the material's chemical composition, physical structure, temperature, humidity, and the presence of impurities or defects.

Different dielectric materials possess varying Entladungsstärke values. For instance, gases like air have a lower Entladungsstärke compared to solid insulators like ceramics or polymers. The measurement of Entladungsstärke is typically performed by applying a gradually increasing voltage across a sample of the dielectric material until breakdown occurs. The electric field at the point of breakdown is then calculated and reported as the Entladungsstärke, usually in units of kilovolts per millimeter (kV/mm) or megavolts per meter (MV/m). Understanding and controlling Entladungsstärke is fundamental for ensuring the reliability and safety of electrical systems.