High-voltage hipot tester

Overview
Impulse voltage testing uses very short high-voltage pulses to detect insulation defects in windings (e.g., turn-to-turn faults, layer or phase faults). Compared with DC or AC tests, the method uncovers defects by analysing transient voltage responses while applying minimal energy.

Benefits

• Identification of latent turn-to-turn faults through the time-of-flight effect
• Gentle, non-destructive testing due to minimal test energy
• Very short test duration, ideal for serial and automated testing
• High sensitivity enabled by short rise times
• Automatable for repeatable test procedures

Principle / Test procedure
Short high-voltage pulses are applied to the winding. A measuring device records the resulting voltage waveforms and compares them with reference curves. Deviating signatures indicate insulation defects or turn-to-turn faults. Analysis is based on time-of-flight and amplitude features of the transient response.

Applications

• R&D and laboratory (fault localisation, validation of windings)
• Quality assurance in production (series product testing)
• Service, maintenance and repair (rapid on-site diagnosis)
• Automotive industry, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering and related sectors

Characteristics / Specifications (technical)

• Test principle: impulse/transient testing with short pulses
• Rise time: very short (typically about 100–200 ns, device-dependent)
• Test energy: minimal, non-destructive test method
• Detectable faults: turn-to-turn faults, layer or phase faults, insulation deviations
• Result: analysis of transient voltage waveforms compared to a reference curve
• Use: single tests, serial testing and automation possible
• Advantage: short test times, high sensitivity, suitable for repeated test cycles