Corona discharges only occur when the potential gradient at the surface
of Power lines exceeds a critical value, the dielectric strength or disruptive
potential gradient of air. It is roughly 30 kV/cm at sea level but decreases when
atmospheric pressure decreases. Therefore, corona discharge is more of a problem at
high altitudes. The electric field at the surface of a systems/Power lines is greatest
where the curvature is sharpest, so corona discharge occurs first at sharp points,
corners and edges.