Comparison of ANN and finite element analysis simulation software for the calculation of the electric field around metal oxide surge arresters

Electric field values around metal oxide surge arresters is a very useful info that is used for issues related to the maximum field intensity in the arresters and for diagnostic tests related to the condition of the varistor and the existence of moisture or pollution on the insulation surface. The electric field around metal oxide surge arresters can be obtained either performing measurements using suitable equipment or through simulations using specialized software. An alternative to the existing methodologies for the calculation of surge arresters electric field is presenting in this paper using artificial neural networks (ANNs). A comparison in between the new method and the existing ones is performed in order to verify its accuracy. The developed ANN model can be a useful tool for electric utilities, laboratories and manufacturing companies dealing with medium voltage surge arresters that either face a lack of suitable measuring equipment or simulation software, or want to compare/verify their own measurements/calculations. (C) 2015 Elsevier BY. All rights reserved.