In this paper, a numerical analysis was carried out using finite element method to analyse the mechanisms for streamer discharges. The hydrodynamic model was used with three charge carriers equations (positive ion, negative ion and electron) coupled with Poisson equation to simulate the dynamic of streamer discharge formation and propagation. The model was tested within a 2D axisymmetric tip-plate electrodes configuration using the transformer oil as the dielectric liquid. The distance between the electrodes was fixed at 1 mm and the applied voltage was 130 kV at 46 ns rising time. Simulation results showed that the time has a clear effect on the streamer propagation along the symmetry axis. In addition, it was observed that the highest value of the voltage was recorded at 46 ns and the minimum voltage required for insulation breakdown was 112 kV at 200 ns. It was revealed that the streamer velocity recorded the highest value when the streamer reaches the plate electrode and the lowest value when the streamer begins to propagate. Results also showed that the streamer discharge was dominated by positive ions while the negative ions have a low effect.
