EDITOR’S CHOICE
current Earth Bond measurement, Insulation Resistance measurement and High Voltage Flash (or dielectric strength) Test. In addition, many manufacturers will be driven by standards/ customer requirements or even their own in- house guidelines to complete Functional Tests (also known as Run or Load Leakage Testing). It should also be stated that 100 per cent
testing comes in for a degree of criticism, usually based on the increased time and added cost involved. This view needs rectifying. On the time factor, concerns normally arise from misconceptions between type testing requirements and the established practices for 100 per cent routine production line testing. A typical regime of electrical safety testing to meet these routine test requirements can be completed quickly, often within a few seconds.
ADVANTAGEOUS TESTING In terms of cost, equipment can be expensive if the type test requirement is to be employed. However, for routine production line testing, there are a number of highly efficient, advanced systems that are readily available and can be used cost effectively to raise quality standards. With simple to use set-up, flexibility and advanced control features, these testers can be readily incorporated into the manufacturing environment without the need for highly skilled labour. For type testing, a flash test can require high
current levels (sometimes in excess of 100mA) and extended test times (several minutes for some standards) and consequently this type of test can require application under closely controlled conditions, involving the use of highly skilled and experienced test personnel. However, for routine production line testing,
electrical safety standards define not only a lower safer trip level, but also the setting up of the test area is well defined to keep safe the operator. Experience has shown that Routine Test Parameters provide a realistic evaluation of electrical safety and does not harm equipment that is designed to comply with the relevant standards for creepage, clearance and insulation properties.
Where delicate electronic components are
involved, far from omitting the flash test, various techniques can be incorporated to soft start (ramp) the test voltage, applying DC voltages with discharge circuits. This removes any likelihood of damage occurring - a procedure recognised by many international safety standards. Far from costing time and money, 100 per cent
electrical safety testing on the production line makes sound economic and business sense creating a competitive advantage and peace of mind. After all, only 100 per cent testing can categorically show 100 per cent conformance.
Seaward Group
www.seaward.com
INDUSTRIAL COMPLIANCE | SUMMER 2021
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