Abstract
The parameters of high-voltage electrical discharge in water and oil emulsions of various water content is investigated. Its comparison with underwater electrical discharge is conducted. It is shown that the discharge in water and oil emulsions with low water content is more effective than underwater discharge judging by pre-breakdown energy losses, discharge channel electrical power as well as by mechanical effect. However, more than 30 per cent of discharges have no breakdown at hydrostatic pressure equal to 30 MPa. There is some deterioration in the emulsion breakdown conditions with temperature growth. Prebreakdown energy losses increase up to 50 per cent of stored energy under the temperature exceeding 700C. The results obtained can be of use for improving electric discharge technology for oil well treatment.