Purpose. The use of modeling as a tool that allows you to identify design weaknesses in electrical equipment and, on their basis, perform its optimization in order to level weaknesses due to design imperfections. Designation of a real problem in the design of polymer bushings, which negatively affects their technical, economic and operational characteristics and makes them less competitive compared to other types of insulators.
Methodology. Analysis of experiments to detect partial discharges, simulation of electric field strength, synthesis of analyzed works and simulation results.
Findings. As a result of the performed scientific research, it was found that the process of partial discharges has a direct effect on the electrical strength of the polymer bushing insulator. This fact is taken as the basis for searching for methods of further influence on the design of the insulator in order to increase its service life. It was found in the work that the reason for the occurrence of partial discharges is the uneven distribution of the electric field strength. This was the reason for further study of the electric field strength of the pass-through insulator and its modeling. As a result of the simulation, points of concentration of the electric field strength in the bushing polymer insulator were found and designated as points of action to increase the electrical strength of the bushing polymer insulator.
Originality. The scientific novelty of the performed research work lies in the use of the simulation of the electric field of a polymer bushing as a tool for detecting weak points in its design, when exposed to which, a positive effect on its technical characteristics can be observed.
Practical value. The practical value of the research work done is that the results of the research serve as a solid foundation for further optimization of the design of polymer bushings, which will lead to a positive impact on their technical characteristics and make them competitive compared to other types of insulators.