"Relay-race" mechanism of partial discharges in a long chain of cavities for stochastic nature of process

A stochastic model of partial discharges (PDs) inside a linear chain of gas cavities in condensed dielectrics is developed. The equations for electric field potential and electric charge transfer are solved together for dielectric with these inclusions. Computer simulations show the possibility of a "relay-race" mechanism of propagation of partial discharges in this chain of gas cavities even if the stochastic nature of partial discharge is taken into account. This mechanism can be realized if the distances between cavities are small enough and the dependence of probability function of partial discharges r(E) on electric field strength is rather sharp. In this case, the wave of partial discharges can propagate along the chain of cavities. The PD waves can be initiated in the first cavity as well as in the last cavity in the chain. Occasionally, two PD waves can arise from the both edges of the chain. The sequence of partial discharges in the inclusions has a completely stochastic character for a weak mutual influence of cavities on each other.