How do you test insulation resistance in substation equipment?

Testing insulation resistance in substation equipment is an important procedure to ensure the reliability and safety of electrical installations. One of the most effective methods for this is by applying a high voltage with a megohmmeter, commonly referred to as a megger.

The primary reason for using a megohmmeter is that it generates a higher voltage than standard testing equipment, typically ranging from 250 volts to 5000 volts, which is necessary to stress the insulation material. This process allows for a more accurate assessment of the insulation's ability to resist electrical leakage. The megohmmeter measures the resistance in megohms, hence providing clear data about the insulation condition. A high reading indicates good insulation, while low readings can suggest problems such as moisture ingress, deterioration, or other insulation failures.

This method is much more reliable compared to simply using a voltmeter, which is typically designed for low-voltage scenarios and would not adequately stress the insulation. Visual inspections, while helpful for identifying obvious physical damage, cannot quantify the insulation's electrical properties. Similarly, an ohmmeter is better suited for low-resistance measurements and would not provide the high voltage necessary to test insulation effectively. Thus, utilizing a megohmmeter is the standard industry practice for evaluating