Calculating Minimum Distance Between Two Power Lines (50 kV)

[jf22901]

If you know the potential difference between two power lines, (50 kV) and that the electric field between them is uniform, how would you go about working out the minimum distance they can be separated without discharge occurring between lines?

I've looked at the equations for Coulomb's law, electric field, potential difference etc, and I just can't think where to begin. I know it's porbably really easy too!

Thanks

 

[berkeman]

I googled paschen curve ionization air, and got some good hits. Here is a pretty good discussion about HV ionization in air, with some pointers to other resources. Hope that helps.

http://www.Newton.dep.anl.gov/askasci/eng99/eng99397.htm

 

[berkeman]

Oh, and keep in mind that when people talk about 50kV AC powerlines, that is 50kVrms. The peak voltage is what you need to use in your ionization calculations.

 

[jf22901]

Thanks berkeman!

 

[berkeman]

Oh, and keep in mind that when people talk about 50kV AC powerlines, that is 50Vrms. The peak voltage is what you need to use in your ionization calculations.

You're welcome. And I just re-read my last post and noticed the 50Vrms typo. I've fixed it in the previous post.