The material most susceptible to static build up are insulators (dielectrics) Their poor conductivity prevents the electrical charge from readily flowing to surrounding areas of lower voltage potential, thus helping to maintain a state of equilibrium. Instead the chare remains on the surface of the material where it will gradually build up as a result of continuing frictional contact until it reaches a high enough potential to form streamers. These streamers are the path taken as the static electricity discharges in the form of an electric arc.

Unfortunately, from a functional stand point it is necessary to manufacture radomes from the dilectric materials, thus making them a prime source of static generation.

As the speed of the aircraft increases, so does the friction of the air passing over the radome surface. This increases the voltage of the charge that builds up. Aircraft cruising at low speeds are less likely to be affected. Radome shape is also a factor. Small pointed radomes will build charge faster than large blunt radomes.