Flashover Distance Calculator

Formula

To calculate the Flashover Distance (\(D_f\)):

\[ D_f = \frac{D_c}{F_c} \]

Where:

\(D_f\) is the Flashover Distance (mm)
\(D_c\) is the Creepage Distance (mm)
\(F_c\) is the Creepage Factor

What is Flashover Distance?

Flashover distance is the shortest path between two conductive parts, or between a conductive part and the ground, measured along the surface of an insulating material. This distance is critical in high voltage engineering as it determines the voltage at which an electrical discharge will occur across the surface of the insulator. Properly calculating and maintaining adequate flashover distance is essential to ensure the safe and reliable operation of electrical systems, preventing unintended electrical discharges that could lead to equipment damage or safety hazards.

Example Calculation 1

Let's assume the following values:

Creepage Distance (\(D_c\)) = 20 mm
Creepage Factor (\(F_c\)) = 4

Using the formula:

\[ D_f = \frac{20}{4} = 5 \]

The Flashover Distance (D_f) is 5 mm.

Example Calculation 2

Let's assume the following values:

Creepage Distance (\(D_c\)) = 30 mm
Creepage Factor (\(F_c\)) = 3

Using the formula:

\[ D_f = \frac{30}{3} = 10 \]

The Flashover Distance (D_f) is 10 mm.