Computer-aided Optical Plasma Postprocessing Applied on Model Spark Gaps

Spark gaps are used as surge protective devices (SPD class 1) for low voltage grids protection against surge currents and overvoltages. For practical research of the narrow gap plasma of spark gaps, high-speed camera recordings are used in modified transparent test models. In this test setup, current densities of 1010 A/m2 are generated. In order to optimize and automate the evaluation process of camera recordings, an image analysis tool is developed further in this contribution. After basic image improvement and segmentation, this research optimizes a detection algorithm for plasma location and distribution. As a result, the known plasma distribution gives access to significantly more information about the plasma behaviour and the spatial distribution of radiation.