Modeling Electric Spark Discharges on Drones in Contact with High-Voltage Power Lines and Lab Equivalent Tests

The use of drones for inspecting and maintaining high-voltage transmission lines has become increasingly popular, replacing traditional methods like helicopters and cranes. However, the potential difference between the drone and the high-voltage cable results in the occurrence of electric sparks striking the drone during its interaction with the power cable to perform tasks. This paper models the arcing phenomenon to predict spark current levels and repetition rates at any power line voltages and distances. Lab experiments at voltages up to 100 kV AC were conducted to validate the model, showing an accuracy range of 3.6% to 23% when considering the peak currents. The results were used to evaluate the interference to a carbon fiber drone in simulation and minimal shield was proposed to reduce the noise. All the proposed models are made available as open-source. Additionally, equivalent lab tests using at least two times lower voltages were introduced to replicate the arcing conditions of real overhead power lines.