A Comprehensive Study On AC Breakdown Voltage of Various Eco Friendly Gases for Different Electrode Configurations

The increasing demand for environmentally sustainable insulating media in high-voltage systems has prompted extensive research into alternative gases with superior dielectric strength and eco-friendly characteristics. Traditional gases such as SF₆, though widely used, pose significant environmental concerns due to their high global warming potential. As a result, gases like ethane (C₂H₆), nitrogen (N₂), oxygen (O₂), and advanced gas mixtures such as C₄F₇N/CO₂ are gaining attention as potential substitutes. This study provides a comprehensive investigation of the AC breakdown voltage behavior of these gases across various electrode configurations, including sphere–sphere, sphere–plane, plane–plane, and rod–plane arrangements. The analysis emphasizes the fundamental mechanisms of electrical breakdown, the role of pressure, gap distance, and electrode geometry, along with the comparative advantages of each gas in terms of dielectric properties and environmental sustainability. By exploring these insulating media under different configurations, this work aims to contribute toward the development of reliable and eco-friendly alternatives for future gas-insulated power systems.