A fault of the 110 kV metal oxide surge arrester was analyzed. The arrester was checked via visual inspection and disassembling analysis. The insulation layer thickness of the resistor sheet was measured
and a 10 kV current impulse test was conducted. The potential distribution of the arrester was obtained through optical fiber-current measurement and simulation with finite element method. It is found that the fault is due to the discharge of damp drying bag because the metal strut is too long and the drying bag is in higher position. Accordingly
three suggestions are offered to improve operation and maintenance of the arrester
including proper selection of arrester type
improvement of product specification and quality control