6.2 Conduction Current
The resistance of the insulation is not infinite, so a small current
flows through it. Ohms's Law applies, so the leakage current
can be found from:
applied voltage (V)
Leakage Current (µA) =
insulation resistance (M
Ω
)
6.3 Surface Leakage Current
Where the insulation is removed, for connection of conductors
and so on, current will flow across the surfaces between the
bare conductors. If the surfaces are clean and dry, the amount
of leakage current is very small indeed, but it may become sig-
nificant in wet and dirty conditions.
10
Insulation (acting as resistance)
Resistance effect
Conductors
Insulation
Conductors
Surface leakage current
