gjennomslagsspenning

Gjennomslagsspenning refers to the minimum voltage at which an electrical insulator loses its insulating properties and begins to conduct electricity. This phenomenon occurs when the electric field strength within the material exceeds its dielectric strength. The dielectric strength is a material property that indicates its ability to withstand an electric field without breaking down. When the applied voltage is high enough, the electrons in the insulator's atoms are stripped away, creating free charge carriers that can conduct current. This can lead to a rapid increase in current and potentially damage to the insulating material or the device it is protecting.

Different insulating materials have varying through-voltage ratings. For example, gases like air have relatively low through-voltage compared to solid insulators like glass or ceramics. The specific value of through-voltage is influenced by factors such as the material's composition, its thickness, temperature, humidity, and the presence of any impurities or defects. Understanding through-voltage is crucial in electrical engineering for designing safe and reliable electrical systems, ensuring that the applied voltages remain well below the breakdown threshold of the insulating components. It is a key parameter in the selection of materials for high-voltage applications and in the design of protective devices like surge arresters.