What Does
Impulse Dielectric Test Mean?
An impulse dielectric test refers to a non-destructive method of verifying the adequacy of electrical insulation protection from impulse waves. This test determines a device’s ability to operate safely during rated electrical shocks. It is necessary to ensure that the insulation is quite safe and will not fail due to aging, moisture, wear, etc.
This test can be done both in a factory test on new equipment or as a routine maintenance test on apparatus in service.
Corrosionpedia Explains Impulse Dielectric Test
Nearly all electrical components leak very small amounts of electrical current depending on a variety of factors. Normally, this is considered safe for users. When insulation degrades, the amount of current leakage will exceed the safe limit and this is considered dangerous to users. An impulse dielectric test can check this leakage and ensure that the insulation of an electrical component will withstand despite voltage variations under normal operating conditions. A dielectric tester attached to the components can monitor the amount of current leakage of an insulation. The components are considered to be safe as long as the tester shows that the impulse current leakage levels are within an approved range.
Dielectric testing can be “dielectric withstanding testing” and “dielectric breakdown testing.” A dielectric breakdown is regarded as a dramatic and sudden increase of a material’s electrical conductivity when a high voltage is applied. If the insulation withstands this high voltage, then the product is safe to use.
On the other hand, a dielectric withstand test provides a safety margin for production variations and the aging of the material. This test establishes the minimum level of electrical insulation necessary for avoiding potential harmful voltage effects on humans. This test can also be used on the production line in the industry to identify material and workmanship defects in assembled devices.