Experiment 1
INSULATION TESTING
Aim:
To determine the insulation resistance of the given LT & HT cable by using appropriate
testing equipment.
Apparatus required: Micrometer, voltmeter and insulation Megger (5 kV, 20,000 MΩ)
Theory:
The dielectric material in a cable is used to insulate the conductors from one another and
from ground as well as to provide mechanical support to the components. Hence it is
desirable that the insulation resistance be as high as possible, consistent with acceptable
mechanical, chemical and heat resistant properties. During manufacturing, non -
uniformities may develop in the dielectric, affecting the quality of the cable. This test helps
in detecting-such imperfections.
Procedure:
1. The test specimen is connected to the insulation resistance measuring equipment.
2. The insulation resistance of the test specimen is measured after electrification has
continued in a regular manner for 1min. The ambient temperature is recorded when the
test is performed at ambient temperature.
3. The volume resistivity or insulation resistant constant is calculated from the measured
insulation resistance value.
Tabulation of Observations
Sample No. Nominal Material of Length (m) Temperature Insulation
conductor Dielectric (˚C) Resistance
size (MΩ)
Calculation:
The volume resistivity and insulation resistant constant are calculated from the observed
insulation resistance as indicated below.
2𝜋𝐿𝑅
Volume resistivity = 𝑙𝑜𝑔 𝐷 𝑋 108 Ω𝑐𝑚
𝑒 ( ⁄𝑑 )
𝐿𝑅
Insulation resistance constant K = 1000 𝑙𝑜𝑔 𝐷⁄ ) 𝑀Ω 𝑘𝑚
10 ( 𝑑
Where,
R- Measured resistance ( MΩ)
L- Length of the cable (m)
D-Diameter over insulation (excluding screens if any) (mm)
d- Diameter over conductor (excluding screens if any) (mm)
Result:
Inference: