Lekkstrøm

Lekkstrøm, also known as leakage current, refers to the unintended flow of electric current through a path other than the intended conductive pathway in an electrical circuit or component. This phenomenon occurs due to imperfect insulation, material defects, or environmental factors, leading to energy loss and potential malfunctions.

In electronic devices, lekkstrøm can arise from various sources, such as leakage through resistors, capacitors, or semiconductor junctions. For instance, in transistors, leakage current through the base-emitter or base-collector junctions can degrade performance, especially in low-power or high-resistance circuits. Similarly, in capacitors, dielectric leakage causes gradual discharge, reducing efficiency and lifespan.

The magnitude of lekkstrøm depends on factors like voltage, temperature, and material properties. Higher temperatures often increase leakage due to reduced resistance in insulating materials. In high-voltage applications, such as power transmission lines or transformers, lekkstrøm can lead to energy losses and overheating, necessitating robust insulation systems.

Mitigating lekkstrøm involves selecting high-quality insulating materials, ensuring proper circuit design, and implementing protective measures like current-limiting components. Regular maintenance and testing help identify and address leakage issues before they cause failures.

While lekkstrøm is generally undesirable, some applications, such as in certain types of sensors or analog circuits, intentionally utilize controlled leakage for specific functions. Understanding and managing leakage current is essential for maintaining the reliability and efficiency of electrical systems.