IEEE Std 43-2000 (Reunion afl Sud 23.2000) IEEE Recommended Practice for Testing Insulation Resistance of Rotating Machinery May 2008 Draft Sponsor Electric Machinery Committee ofthe IEEE Power Engineering Society Reatfirmed 2008 March 2000 IEEE-SA Standards Board Abstract: This document dascribes the recommended procedure for measuring insulation resistance of armature and field windings in rotating machines rated 1 hp, 750 W or greater. It ‘applies to synchronous machines, induction machines, dc machines, and synchronous condensers. Contained within this document is the general theory of insulation resistance (R}) and polarization index (P ||, as well as factors affecting the results, test procedures, methods of interpretation, test limitations, and recommended minimum values. Keywords: absorption current, conduction current, discharge current, geometric capactive cutrant, insulation resistance polaration index, surface leakage current ‘The nahute of Elects and Electronics Engineers, 1 Bac Avenue, Mew York,NY 100165997, USA 10f26Copyright ©2000 by ensue of Electical and Elctonics Engines, ne [Ange esartsd Pubehadl 24 Mach 2000. 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Permicsion to photocopy portions of any indisdusl standard for educational classroom uae can alse be ebtesned threush the Copyright Clear: Introduction (Tus satrodecion sant pat of EEE Std 43-2000, IEEE Recommended Frecice for Teng larson Resinance of Rataing Mackay) Insulation resistance measurement hat been recommended and used for more than half «century to cvaluats the condition of electiial inrulation, Whereas individvalinulation cesutance acarocemente may ‘be of questionable value, the eaefully mainteined record of peiodie measurements, xceumulsted over ‘onthe and years of series, 2 of unquestoned value ag a meszuse of tome aspects of the condition of the tlecincaliarolation, Ongunally, in 1950, thus ecomnended practice war published by the AIEE se» guide to present the various facets asociated withthe snd understanding of electrical sneuleion susistance. The guide was cevised in 1961 and again in 1974 During the 1970s, several changes were made to the types of vsulation ued elect tating machines The msulatien reistance charactentice of ‘hese newer insulation systems are efferent from the older systems, and therefore required thie substantial sevision tothe standard for mearuring insulation sistance, Other changes include the addiuon of further desenption ofthe tesung theory and the emaval of suggestions eegarding maintenance dey-obt procedures {or older windings (previously Anaex A), Recommendations for maintenance procedures are beyond the scope of this document With ths publication ara recommended practice, the IEEE 12 presenting and recommending electrical inulaton resistance mcarurement as sa important factor in monitoring the condition of electrical intulstion i rotating machinery ‘This recommended practice describes the theory, procedure, md interpretation ofthe insulation resistance test tus utended fr the flowing: — Individuals or organizations who manufacture rotating machines Individuals or organizations who are esponsible forthe acceptance of mew rotaing machines — Individuals or organizations who test and masatas rotating machines —lIndividvale or organization who opsesterotming machiner ‘This recommended practice is designed to ielp organizations and individuals Evaluate the condition of the rlectrical ineslation ured ia rotating machinee Determine ifthe electrical insulation of a rotating machine is sustable for return-to-terice Determine ifthe electrical insulation of a rotating machine is sutable for high-peteanal testing ‘This recomanended practice is intended to satisty the following objectives 1) Promote consistency for mulation test procedures end iatexpretations 1) Provide useful infomation on preper application of the insulation resistance test, ©) Provide useful information onthe technical theory of inaulation resistance testing ‘The revision to this recommended practice was prepared by a wosking group ef the Materials Subcommunce ofthe Electric Machinery Commuttes ofthe IEEE Power Engineeng Society. Working ‘soup personnel were Ian Culbert, Chair 3 0f26The final conditions for approval ofthis standard were mat on? This standard was conditionally approved bby the IEEE-SA Standards Board on 30 Jenuary 2000, wth the following membership: Also included isthe following nonvating IEEE-SA Standards Board liaison: IEEE Standards Project Bator 4 0f26Contents 1. Overniew 1 Scope 12 Purpore References Definitions 4. Safety conndecatonr 5: Tpsulotion resistance general theory 5.1 Components ofthe mearred direct coreat 5.2 Characteristics ofthe marred direct current 5.3 Inenation renatancesendngs 5 olanzaion index readings 5.5 Discharge current 6. Factors affecting insulation reitan 6.1 Biest of surface condition 5.2 Bfiest of moutrre Effect of temperature 5.4 Best of test voltage magoinede 6.5 Effect of existing charge on winding resistance mearuremeats 7. Conditions foe messing sazulaien resistance 8. Winding connections for insulation resistance ters 9. Methods of measuring insulation sevistance 9.1 Direct menrucemest 5 0f 26 1B9.2 Caleaated measurement 10, Peesstone 11, Interpetation of tnauaton resistance and polarization ind results 11.1 Monitoring insulation condition 112 Suitability for operation or continued resting 1143 Limitations ofthe insulation resistance test, 12, Recommended misimum value of polarization index and isolation resistance ‘Minimum values 12 Polasization index 12.3 Tnelation reastance ‘Annex & ioformitive)—Vanante in polarization inde ‘Annex B (nformative)—Disect verusalesmating veltege tering ‘Annex © (nformative)—Reulmion in power ruppies used for insulation sistance measurement. 6 of26 3 “4 4 onIEEE Recommended Practice for Testing Insulation Resistance of Rotating Machinery 1. Overview 1.1 Scope ‘This document deecriber » recommended procedure for menrunag antvlation cesstanes of armistice and adage in eotating machines rated 1 hp, 750 W or gycater 1 applses to ayachronous 2 mn machines, dz machiaee, and synchronous condensers. Tt does not apply to fractional -horsepowsr ent alsa deseribes typical insulation renstance characteristics of rotsing a.achine windings and how these sagulation enstance for ac and de rotating machine windings araceristce indicate winding condition Tt recommends minimam acceptable values of (ther TEBE standard tat include information on insulation resistance mearurement ae listed in Clause 2 1.2 Purpose ‘The purpose of his recommended practice isto 8) Define insulation resistance and polarization index teting of the winding ofa rotating machine » the factors that affect or change insulation reistance characteristice a uniform tes conditions a scommcnd unform methods For measuring snaulatton eatstanes wath precautions t aveud xroneous ces. ©) Provide abanis for nterpreuiag insulation resistance test results t 4 spate winding suitability for c+ or for an overvetage test Ia particular, this standard describes typical insulation problems ted by the sgvulation genstanes test Present cecommeaded minimua socsptable iarulsucn conmtance valnes and polarization indices 5 for ‘various typeof rotating machinet 7 of 262. References ‘hie recommended practice shall be weed in conjunction withthe following publications. When the follow sag tandards are superseded by an approved sevision, the sevssion shall apply ASTMD 257-99 Standard Teet Methods for DC Resistance or Conductance of laulating Materials, ASTM D1711-99 Standard’ esinslogy Relating to ElecticalInelaion ASTMLF855.9Tel Standard Specification fr Tempormy Brotetve Grounds to Be Ured on De-cnegized leetvie Power Lines and Equipment. TEC 60085-1. 1984, Thermal evaluation and classification of electrical insulation IEEE Sta 4 (1995) IBBE Standard Techniques for High Voltage Testing IEEE Sta 56-1977 (Reaff 1991), IBBE Guide for Tnsuson Maintenance of Large Altesnating-Cusrent Rotating Machinery (10 000 EVA and Larger)” IBBE std 62-1995, IEEE Guide for Diagaoste Field ‘Testing of Blectis Power Apperstus—Part 1 Oil Filled Power Transformers, Regulotors, and Reactors IEEE Std 67-1990 (Reaff 1995), IEEE Guide for Operation and Maintenance of Turbine Generators. IEEE Std 95-2002, IEEE Recommended Pr sce foe Insulation Teng af Large AC Rotating Machinery With High Dest Voltage IEEE sd 118-1978 (Ratt 1992), IBEE Standard Test Code for Rentonce Mearocements. TEBE std 432-1992 (Reaff 1998), IEEE Guide for Insulation Mai (Sip to less than 10 000 bp). TIBEE st 433-1974 (Reaff 1991), BBE Recommended Practice for Insulation Testing of Largs AC Rotstog ance for Rotating Blectic Machinery Machinery with High Voltage at Very Low Frequency IEEE St 434-1973 (Resi? 1991), IEEE Guide for Functional Evalumion of Larulaion Syste for Large High-Voltage Machines IEEE Std 492-1999 IBBE Guide for Operation and Maintenance of Hy dro-Generaters IBBE Std 910-1983 (Reail 1992), BBB Recommended Practices for Safty in High-Voltage and High Power Terting NEMA MG-1 (2006) Motors and Generators or pais ete en Sosy Tet nM 19 Ba te Di Cea, ta ioe959 ny es sino TES pon we a et De oe ea hate Gonna Cue Peta items an One a Seeednaes taper EBS plhetcuceansrcot ini aiiica hom SeeDyeia hess esas a ed Pvt an ety DIGI venom nore anon) omy a sae OC NEMA (REARING fice the None! Electrica Memtactcery’ Associaton, Roaslya, VA 8 0f263. Definitions Bor the purposes of this eecommended peacice, the following terms and definitions apply. The IEEE Dictionary of Electrical and Electronics Terme should be referenced for terme not definedin thie clause 3.1 absorption (polarization) current (J) A current resulting from molecular polarizing and electron oft which decays with time of vltage application ata deceeaing rate from a comparatively high iitial, value to neatly zet0, and depend on the type and conéition of the Bonding material used in the insulation system, ‘32 conduetion current (f,) A current that is constant in time, that passes through the bul naulation from the grounded surface tothe high-voltage conduster, and that depende on the rype of bonding material aed i the ineulation system 3.3 electroendosmosis effect: A pheaom aoa occasionally observed, mers oftea oa older windings, whe, inthe presence of moisture, diferent insulation resistance values may be ebttned when the polarity of the taster leads are reversed Typically for older wet windings, the ination renstancs for reverse palanty, ‘where the groundleadis conacctedte the winding and the negate voltage lead to grounds much higher than for agsmal polaty 34 insulation resistance (IR) The capability of the electrical mnsulation of a winding to cenit direct feurtant The quotient ef applied dsect voltage of negative polarity divided by current across machine insulation, corrected to 49 °C, and taken ata speciied tine () feom start of voltage application. The voltage pplication tinea uauelly Ima (04, or 10 mun (IK,), however, ether valueo can be used Vast conventions. values of J through 10 a assumed to be in minutes, values of 15 and greater are assumed 19 bein seconde 35 geometric capacitive current (1) A reversible current of comparatively high magnitude and short ‘dorauca, which decays cxponeatally with wane of voltage application, and which depeade on the unteraal ‘esutance ofthe acarucing instvaieot ad the geomet capacitance of tae winding 136 polarization index (PJ,,,,) Vesistion inthe valve of uneulation csntance with axe. The quotient of the insulation eesttance at us (7) vided by the spaultioneesiatance atte (1) Iftimesf, and, are net specited they are arsumedto be 10 min aad | mia, especively. Unit conventions values of I through 10 ae assumedto be in minutes, valuee of 15 ond greater are agsumed tobe i seconds © Plog, 121819 TBaollBsee) 3.7 surface leakage current (J,): A current that is comstaat wath time, and which usually exist over she surface of the endtums of the stator winding or between exposed conductors and the roicr body in laeulated corer windiags The maguitode ofthe mctnce leakage cncreat i dependent upon tompecstare aad the amount of conductive material, se, moisture or contantination onthe surface ofthe ination, 4, Safety considerations Intulation resistance tesung involves the appliition of high direct voltages to machine windings These vrindings have capacitive and indvctive propestce that can ead to hazards that may aot be reacly appareat. As net posuble to cover ll safety anpects in thi recommended pracice and test personnel should consult TEE Sed 510-1983, ASTM FB55.97e1, manufscterer' intruction manvals, and waion, company, aad government regulations 9 of 26Before any tesuag is condvcted, the winding insulation must be discharged Its not sas to begin testing Defore the discharge current s8 Zero end there ss 20 dcernsble return voltegs Less thaa approximately 20 ‘V) after the ground is comoved. After completion ofthe test the winding should be discharged through a stable cesitor, ized to mit the instantaneous current to LAA muininum discharge time, which i equal to four times the voltage application duration, is recommended. This time interval is based on the & ensure). L Gadvetive), C (geometne capacitiv®), and sbsorpuve characterisues of the cizout during charging (Gime of the application of the voltage) and discharging (clapeed time since tae removal of ‘lta source and subsequent grounding of the winding under test). It is important to semember that she testing is not complete until the winding is discharged and there i no discernible voltage Te it recommended that subsequent ac high-poteatiel tesung aot be conducted unt the winding at filly charged ‘Dosing the test period, all apprapssate safety measures forthe voltages being used must be taken. For test ‘voltages 5000 V and above, the lend between the test eet and the winding must be appropriately ineulated sad spaced from ground, otherwise, urface leakage currents and corona loss may intredies rrors ia the test data For safety considerations, and to avoid measuring stray currents, th leads may be shielded ‘Restriction of personadl acceas tothe high veltages is mandatory. Use ef perzeaal protective equipment se recommended, af i the use of hor sticks, iarvlated laddert, ete, IE scessable, the phage acvtral and line cade of each winding should be connected together dusiag the test to minsmze the effect of high-voltage surge retlections that may eesut from a winding fuluce ‘The safety meamrce described are by ao means exclusive. ‘There are meant caly t9 signify the aamace ofthe hazards tavalved tis the responsiblity of the tere of the test equipment to completely ascertain the possible hazards involved in the tesiing, to protect personnel from harm, and to eliminate the risk of ‘damage tothe equipateat 5. Insulation resistance—general theory ‘The insulation resistance of a rotauag machine winding is a foaction of the type and condition of she inaulating materials used, et well aa their application technique. In general, the inaulation cesstance varies proportionstely with the insulation thickners and inversely with the conor sucace area Interpretation of insulation resistance measurements of machine windings and the recommended minimem ‘yalues of polarization index and snrulation resistance are descabed sa Clouse 11 and Clause 12, respectively 5.1 Components of the measured direct current (Revised version by Ray Bartnikas & Eric David) ‘The insulating system of a stator winding is comprised of numerous interfaces, which exist between the smsce, gla and polymer matax of either epoxy or polyester Aga consequence, the slectseal conduction process is prnapally controlled by the sateTocial polarization mecheniom. When a de fields suddenly spplied acrorsa stator winding insulating system . space charge build-up occurs at the interfaces due tothe Aiffecence in the permittivities md conductivities of the contiguous dielectric materials forming the tnterfeses [A.B] Fist, arapd voltage dvision is eetablished across the two abutting dielectrics atthe interface because of their difference in permittviny. This is manifest by an almost astastanzous capacitive current. whose duration is too short to influence the shape of the overall current and thus does not influence the one minute reactivity measurement This capacitive current decreages exponentially with 9 ‘ume constant equals tothe product ofthe winding’s capacitance andthe snsrumental resistance 10 of 26ot Up « Sill aeedio decade swathera esp tue Bere snd sfeense storemoveit fom compo thedocumest Ray — Bemlee secommende that st Beremovee [on soto Figure 1-Equivalent circuit showing the four currents monitored ‘during insulation resistance test ‘The voltage drops across characte 0 dissimilar dielectric layers constituting the interface, that themselves are ed by ovo dieuactly digtereut conductivities, lead tothe development of tre current of wacqal sagaitade. This causes charge accumulation or tapping at the intecface vat the couater field created by the trapped space charge squalizes the currents in the adjacent dielectne strats The time constant of this process, which s a mearure ofthe time required to achiev? equalizauon of the current maguitudes. is ‘contuagent upon the penmturitiee and condactiier se well ar the geometry ofthe comtguows Arata Iovming the suteuee Since there s9 a uultpicaty of deesmslor sstesFaces within the snsuating systems of 8 stater winding, the overall interfacial polarization mechanism within the tasulaung systems can be only adequately derenbed by a dstabution of relaxation timer and, conzesuentiy.stas aot pornble to cepeeseat the conduction process is a stator barby a simplisue RC lumped ciscust Note thet the behaviors ll further compeundedsn ste complexity sp that a sms sstefactal palanzation mechanism may azo ts place atthe semi-conductuag shueld and the sasulating material interfaces “The diouvbution of relaxation tines is such that even the 10 minute meanusement fll sll within the absorption curret, ly raage The absorption cwzreat it aa inverte function ofthe time, t aad e nersally expressed empirically a, k= Ke where K 150 function of applied voltage , capacitance and the particular insulating system of the stater ber cr winding, endn denotss an exponcat which sea eharactestc function ef the insulating system At loa sueasuremeat times (10 minutes), the value of [qs often low enough so that she teal currest approaches seymptaticaly the value of the direct condastion current which i the summation oft Leakage otent slong the end arms, I, andthe conductance eutent To, through the yasulauon velume They conatstue the coustaat faite condaction corcent itis cbserved with ineulanag systens wader a conetaat voltage wea applied or extended periods of time Note thatthe charge caries ((ons and electrons, that become tapped ft the interface, are held deep traps and thus do aot contribute tignificatly tothe conductance eure, Ig, under leng term electrification However, they can be ejected from the deep traps at elevated temperateret 11 of 26Time grin Figure 2 ~ Insulation resistance measurements at 5 kV for same machine before (asphaltie-mica insulation) and after rewinding (epoxy-mica insulation) ‘A current, that can influence adversely the insulation resistance measurements, isthe sunface leakage current, 1 This cuent anges from semi-condacting impunises that may become deposited onthe surfaces of eater bars ands adverse effects may be further enhanced by moisture adsorption on the insulation surfaces, its magnitude may be of the same order or greater than that of the absorption current, I, Frequently. st may become necessary to dry and clean the insuabon surfaces to cxcumvent resistance Figuce 2 compares at an applied voltage of 5 KV the insulation resistance ofan epoxy-mica insulated winding with that of an asphalt-msca saulated winding, [C] Ae expected, the insulation resistance at both the {and 10 min measurements ig substantially high for the lower loss epoxy ~mica system, However, note that sm both cases the snvulation resistance fer umes above 10min tends asymptotically towerds @ ‘constant vale ‘As mentioned cater, sp tome cases, the stree grading costing can have a aotable influence on the resistance ond polarization index mesmusement Figure 3 shown the charge current from a reristanee test Gonducted a 1 kV on aturbo-generator vith =poxy bonded groundwall insulation and silicon carbide tape ae te stres grading system. The humnp observed in the midds of the curve on a loglog plot anses fromthe contribution ofthe sess gradiag system [D]. ‘The value of the nsulation resistance ss lower to about the (bird of ts bulk value duc tothe sess grading system The Plfor this measurement was 26 12 of 26400, —_—_— 19 Current (uA) 04 oot 0.001 0.001 oot on 1 10 100 Time (min) Figure 3- Measured current for an ne with o aro References (vised Seetion 51) [A] 2 Baraukas ond RM Eichhorn . Engineering Dielectrics, Vel. IA, Bleciical Properties of Sold Tnzulating Material» Molecule Structure and Electrical Behavior, STP 783,Philadelphia/ West Conshohocken, 1983, (aww asim cxaldegutalsbeary) (B] R Banaieas,Bagiacening Diclectice Vol, IB. Blectneal Broperues of Sod Insulating Materials: Meanurement Techniques, STP 926, Philedelpbia West Conshohocken, 1987, (eae atm org/agialbran) [C]E David, LLomare end D NNeuyen, "Low Frequency Dielectric Response of ‘Asphalt Bonded Taculston”, Proc of 8 Int Conf on Condaction and Breakdown I Solid Disleetrice, pp 497-500,2004 [D]E David, L, Lamatre, "Low Frequency Dielectic response of Bpoxy Mics Insulated Generator Bars Dring Miult-Stess Aging”, EEE Trans. on Dietectr and Electr, ist, Vol. 4, pp. 212-226, 2007 5.2 Characteristics of the measured direct current Companag the chaage sp sarulation cenistanes or total curreat with the darmion of the tert voltage application may be useful in appraising the cleanliness and dryness of a winding. If che windags are Contaminated ot wet, the total exent (I) will be approximately constant with time, since J, andor /, Gee Figure 3) wall be muuch Larger then the absorption curceat (Z). Ifthe windings ace clean and dey. the total current (1) will normally decrease with time absorption (2, polanzmtig) cvsreat (1). Figure ), since the total cacrent ie dominated by the 5.3 Insulation resistance readings 13 of 26snd snust be rerncted to valve "The menrucement of ineulaon resistance conatittes 9 direst-eltage appropriate to the voltage rating of the windiag aad the basic sasulaton condition. This ir particularly + of small, low-voltage machines, or wet windingo. Ifthe tet vollage s too high, the importants the applied test voltage may ever sven the insulation, leading to seulation failure Insulation resistance tests are usually conducted at constant direct voltages of 500-10,000 V having regative polaity. Negative polarity is prefered 19 agcommodhte the phenomenon of electroendosmosi. Guidelines for tet voltages are preeented sp Table 1 Readings of insulation resistance are taken after the tent user voltage ss beau applied for 1 a, Relative Current ‘Time of Voltage Application (minutes) Figure 4 “Types of currents for an epoxy-mica insulation with a relatively low surface leakage eurrent ‘Table 1—Guidelines for de voltages to be applied during insulation resistance test Windingrated | Insulation resistance test valtage (Vi iret ytage(V) <0 0 1000-2500 00-1000 201-000 touo-2500 sa01-12 000 2300-s000 >12 000 000-10 000 “patedine tone volge for ire phase a machines, linet ground voltage for single phase machines. and sted direct voltage for ds machines or Bold wndings. 5.4 Polarization Index readings ‘The measured insulation resistance will usualy rpidly increase when the voltage is fet applied, and thea 14 of 26sradvally approach a relatively constant value as tne elapses (cee Figure 4) The readings of a dy winding sm good condition may contuaus te merente for hours with a continuously applied constant test valtage For older typer of insulation, araconably steady value ie wavally reached in 10-15 min. Moderatypee of flix- coated wste, at well a2 cpexy-maca or polyester mica insulated stator windings, may spproach a censtent value of insulation resistance in 4 min or leas If the winding is wet or ty, alow steady value wil usally ‘be cesched 1 aun of 2 mun ater the test voltage is applied ‘The polanation index 12 normally defined as the rauo ofthe 10 min resistance value (UR) to the T min eninaace valve (IR), (See Aanex & for the use of oer values ) The polaization index ieindicaive ofthe slope ofthe chacacteritic curve (see Fuze 4) aad can be ned te assess the inavlatioa condition (6¢ Clause 11 and Cause 12) To provide greater accuracy around the 1 mia point and to allow the data to be plowed on log paper, itis also common to take readings at other intervals such as 15 5, 305,45 5,1 au, 15min, 2min, 3 min, 4min, and 10min 5.5 Discharge current Alter the applied direct voltage is somoved, » suitable discharge circuit should be provided (ger Clause 44)The dlecharge onreut snanigertetrlf ia ro componente 2) A capacitive discharge current componcat, which decays nearly instantaneously, depending upon the dacharge eenstance 1b) The absorption discharge curent, which will decay from a high inital value to neay zero with the same charscterisice ag the inital charging current but with the opposite polarity This decay may takes more tan 3D min depending on the insulation type and machine size ofthe test specimen 6. Factors affecting insulation resistance 6.1 Effect of surface condition ‘The mutace leakage cusreat (L) ie dependent wpon foreign mater, mich at el andlor carbon dust oa the winding surfaces outside the slot The surface Leakage current may be sgesficontly higher on large tucbine _gtnetator rotors and de machines, which have relaively large exposed exeepage surfaces There may also ‘bean inereaee inthe suriace leakage current on machines where 9 mtess-control casting hae been applied to ‘Dut (or salts) an ingulation surfaces, whch are ordmanly nonconductive when dry, may become partially conductive when expored to moisture or oil, and, thus, can lower the snelation resistance. IF the sarulstion esistmee of polanzalion index is reduced becaute of contamination, it can uaually be restered to a0 acceptable value by cleaning and éeying 6.2 Effect of moisture egordlete of the cleanliness of the winding surface, sf the winding temperature t2 at of below the dew point of the ambient air, a lm of moistare may form on the insulation surface, which can lower the lntulstion revistiace or polanzston andex Tae effect at more proacuaced if the suctace at alee contaminated, or if cracks in the insulation are present Note tht the fects of moisture contamination on a ‘healhy winding should net preclude cbraining acceptable readings Some types of older winding insulation systems are hygroscopic (canly absorb wate) and moumtare may be deawa into the body of the insulation from the humid ambient ar This is parteularly true forthe older AS of 26asphalticmica and shellac mica-foliom insulating materials, as well as for some insulating stipe used berween uniarslated copper conductors an lage turbine geasrater rotors Absorbed mourace aereasse the ‘ondction current (1, and significantly lowers the insulation resistance In-service machines are usually ata temperature above the dew point. Whea tests are to be conducted on a ‘machine that has been sa service the tests sheuld be made before the machine winding temperature dope below the dew point Machines that are cutof-service (without spacs heaters) are frequently tested when the winding Lempertise 1s below the dew point and may hare signiflcntly lower than expected insulation cesistance ‘and polarization index readings due to moisture contamination (cee Clause 11) Te may be necessary to ey four there achiaesto obtan acceptable readings prior to esturning there machines to tervce or performing Iugh-voltege testing, Fer appropriate dry-out procedures, eongult wah the equpment menufacturee The history of the machine, visual inspections, and other test eaulte may Relp in assessing the potential rise of fetuming to rervice a machine with low ineulaion resistance andlor polatization index readings dsc to ‘mouture contamination Its recommended that s machine with low PI and IR, readings nov be aubyected to further high-voltage testing 63 Effect of temperature 6.3.1 General theory ‘The insulation senauce value for a givea syetom, at any given poist ia time, vasies saversely, om an swponential basis, with the winding temperature There is a contrast between the temperature dependenes of resistivity in metals and non-metallic material, especialy in good insulators Tn metals, where there are numerous fite rlesttons, higher temperature introduces greater thermal agitation, which reduces the mean fee path of electron movement with a consequent reduction in electron mobility and an sncrease an enatvity. However, wp insulators, aa snersaze in temperature supplies thermal energy, which frees Additional choege cariers and reduces resistivity Thie temperature variation affects all of the current components sdenuied in 5.1 except forthe geomtetsic capacitvs current The inrulstioa cesstance value of a windiag depends upon {he winding temperate and the me elapsed since the application ofthe voltage. The thersal mass of the machine being tested ie generally so large that tbe temperature differential of the winding between the 1 smin ead 10 mia readings of the inrulaoa resistance is negible, except for meamurements donng 2 dryout tated current Ip order to avoud the effects of temperature im Wend analysis, subsequent tess should be conducted when the winding ie near the same temperatuce a¢ the previous test However, ifthe winding temper-ature cannot be controlled from one test time to another, itis recommended that all insulation test, values be corrected toa common bate temperstre of 0 °C wrung Equaucn (2). Though the coreected value team appronituation, this permite amore meaningful comparison of insulation resistence values obtained at diferent temperatures ‘The eosrechon may be made by usig Equation (2) where A. isinsuation esstance (x megohms) corected to 40 °C, K wintulmion cesistaace temperate coufcient at temperature TC (rom 63. oF 63.3), Hse meansed iaulation resstance (in megohims) at temperature 7°C For winding temperatures below the dew point, it is dificult to predict the effect of moisture condensation 16 of 26‘onthe surface, therefore an altempt to correct to 40 °C for trend analysis would introduce an unacceptable ‘error In such cases, 1s recommended that the hutory of the machine tested under similar cenditicas be he predominant factor sg detsmminsng custobshty for setuen to sevice However, sace moisture ‘contamination normally lowere the insulation resistance andor polarization index ceadings, itis posible to correct 1940 °C for comparison agaist the acceptance criteria (ee Clause 12) There is no he insulation resistance that would occur ata diferent humiity uve means For converting the saulation esiatence meagured under a specific humsdty to 6.3.2 Field measurements for determining K, ‘The recommended methed of oblainsng data for an spsulaton senstonce vernus winding lempceature curve ts by making measurements at several winding temperatures, all above the dew point, and plotting the results on a semilogarithmic scale When a logarithmic scale is used for the insulation resistance and a linear scale forthe temperature, the test points shuld approzimats a straight in chat can be extrapolated to btn the corrected value at 40 °C 6.3.3 Approximating K, Tf the temperature ffecte on the insulation system under test i unknown, an approximate value for the temperatise coefsent K,may be oblained by using Figure 5 for eeastence halving fer each +10 °C sneremeat Nets that this only on approximatien and sheuld net be used t calculate insulation eeststan at very large temperature dferentisle from 40 °C or significant errors could ceeult NOTE—teslaion renitence halving for «LO °C increare an teapertrs a baed on toning of rome ofthe inmlation systems of the lle 1950s aad may not be sty tue for all ssulaion systems More foceat measurements have sedicated a conection factor for sgelabon rxsane having se the senge 20°C. A versauon im the K, factor cm lead to significant irre R magnified by theeifeentil Between the winding temperate sad ADC K, can also be appremimated for insulation resistance halving for a 10 °C rise in winding temperature by. application of Equation (3) Ineulaton Resistance Temperature Coofeient K, Winding Temparature, Figure Approximate insulation relotance coctficlet, Ky fr Insulation haliing for 10°C ravi emperature For example, if the winding temperature a test time was 35 °C, and the ingulation was suc that the sived for every 10.%, then the X, for correction to 40) °C would be derived sn the following way. 17 of 26Kospone 6 = spose (0.5) 6.3.4 Polarization index correction ‘When the polarization index is used with the insulation resistance to determine the insulation condition, sis not aecersary to make a temperature correction to the Pl Since the machine temperature doer not change apprecinbly benween the 1 mia and 10 min readings the effect of temperature on the polarization index is Usually small However, when the stil winding temperature 1 hh, 2 teduction sp the temperature of the sagulaticn system danag the test ims may result ig a substastial increase in the ipsulaten resistance Ubetween the Timea and 10min readings de to th 31), The resulting pelesizaton index may be uncharactcistealy high, in which ease a repest mueamursment at or below 40 °C is recommended ara check of the Pl, As statedin 62.38 sther the I min or 10 mia meamwremente are taken when the winding temperature 1s below the dew poss, the effete of mosture contamination must be considered during interpretation 6.4 Effect of test voltage magnitude Guidelines for test voltages are presented ig Table 1 (see 53). The value of insulatien cesistance may dzerease somewhat wth an increas in applied veltegs, however, for insulation in good condition and in 2 horoughly dry state, cabsantally the same ineblaion resistance will be obtained for any tet voltage up to the peak value of he rated voltage ‘A siguticant decrease in insolation serttance with an inceeare ia applicd voltage may be aa indication of sneulation problems These problems may be due te smpesTectons of fractures of the sneulaien,sgarevated by the presence of drt or moisture; or the problems may be due tothe effects of dit or moisture alone ot result from other detenoration phenomena The change in resistance is more pronounced at voltages onsierably above rated voltage (Gee IEEE Std 95-1977) 6.5 Effect of existing charge on winding resistance measurements The insulation resistance measurements will be ia error if residual charges exist in the inultion, ‘Therefore, por to measuring the iprulation resistance, windings must be completly dcherged Measure the diachargs current af the beginning ofthe test to assure thatthe winding tx completely discharged. A. residual charge will show ar a reverse deflection of the insulation resistance meter ater connections are smade but before the veltege ss applied. Any reverse deflection should be neglisible ‘After cessation of application of high direct voltage, grounding of windings ix important for safcty as wel ae for aceuracy of subsequent tests The grounding une should be a minimum af fous times the cherge bme (e055) 7. Conditions for measuring insulation resistance Record the ambient temperature, celative huaidty. dew poiat, winding tespertace length of nme ext sereice, txt voltage, and conazetion arrangement atthe time the teat se performed Its also important to convert the measurement to a 40 °C basis for future comparisons (For converting intulition rerietance values to thr temperature, see 6 3) Its aot asccesary thatthe machine be at staadmll whea sazvaton resistance tert are being made. Ibe 18 0f 26often denable to make insulation resistence meamureatente when the minding ie subject to centntugel forces similar to those oecurnng in service In certain cate, it 18 practical to make peniodie insulation resiragce mearurements hile machines are rotating thort circuited fer drying. Whenever machines are ot ft standstill during meatureneat of snalation resistence, precautions should be taken to avoid damage to ‘equipment and injury 4 personnel ‘To obtain insulation resistance meazurements for a directly water-cooled winding, the water thould be seaoved aad the internal cireat thoroughly dried In some cates where water-cooled windings we used, the ‘winding manufacturer may have provided a meane of measuring the instlation reretance without need for the coolant water tobe drained In general, if the water sx act removed, then the conductivity of the water should be grester than 0.25 yslem More information should be available in the winding manufacturer's anal 8. Winding connections for insulation resistance tests Tie recommended, when feasible, that each phase be isolated and tested separately Separate testing allows comparisons to be mad: benreen phases. When one phase is tested, the other two phases should be grounded to tte same ground ag the stator core er rotor body ‘When tetung all phases simultencously, only the ingulation to grounds tested and no tet ss made of the phaze-to-phare inrlation The phiase-to-phare insulation i terted only when one phase ix energized andthe ‘ther phates are grounded ‘The connection leads, brush rigging, cables, switches, capacitors, surge lors, valtage tansfonmers, and other external equipment may greatly infeence the insulation resistance reading Tt ir recommended that saucavuremeate of the insulation erutance be made wath all exterual equipment disconnected and grounded In all cates, a common ground should be used to avoid any undesirable effects on the test results due to stray Jorsesin the ground circus 9. Methods of measuring insulation resistance 9.1 Direct measurement Direct measurement of insulation resistance may be made with the following instruments: 2) Diseetaindicating megohmmcter with self-contained baad or power-dewren generator b) Direcrindieming megobmaster with slf-coutsined batery Dircctindicating megobuimcter wit self-conteined cectfer, wring a cegulated line powered © supply 4) Resistance bridge with self-contained galvanometer and batteries 9.2 Calculated measurement Ingulation resistance may be caloulated from readings of a voltmeter and micreammeter wsing an external (well-segulated) drect-veltage supply NOTE—Recommended value of voltage reguston (in) is less then or equal to 0.1% Deviations from this may lead to enguous results due to upredictalelnees foe the charging stent aeocetd woh fucueions isthe applied voltage (see Amex C) 19 of 26‘The vottmeterammeter method is a simple method for the determination of the insulation resistance by. smenturement ofthe volte impressed across the svulation and the current through it A source of constant Airecr voltage is required, andthe voltmeter must be selected to sus the maximum and minimum voltages thot may be used The ammcter is usually a multrange microammster selected to measuee the full ange of coments that may be encountered a the voltage used ‘The microsmmeter mast be on the highest range or thot circuited daring the fret ew seconds of charge #9 that i wil not be damaged by the capacinve charging current aad the iniualabsorptica currest. Whea the smicroammeter i w tert voltage, precautions shouldbe taken to ensure the sfsty of the operator ‘The resistance is ealoulated from Egaztion (8) “ 2m 2 the ingulaion resistance in megohms, Esthe voltmeter reading in volts, 1, the ammeter reading in microamperes (1) seconds after application ofthe test voltage 10. Precautions ‘A nite amount of une is required to bring the voltage impressed on the insulation fe the desired test value Full test voltage should be applied as rapidly as porsible and beld constat throughout the tect, ‘Test instruments sn which the tat veltage ss supplied by mator-operated generators, bat sare wally ueed for mabiag test of over I min daration Tei eerential tht the voltage of my test rource be constant to prevent fuctiation a the charging eurent (gee TEEE95.2002, Aunex A, Secton 33) Stabilization ofthe supplied voltage may be required “Where protestve reisters are utedin teat instruments, their effect om the magnitude of the voltoge applied to the mulation under test should be taken inte account The voltage drop inthe renatore may be an appreciable percentage ofthe instrument voltage whea measuring a low insulation resistance siete 11. Interpretation of insulation resistance and polarization index test results ‘The smaulason retance and pelasszation index tests can be used Fortwo purposes 8) The insulation resistance test history ofa given machine, measured at uniform conditions 60 far a¢ the controllable variables ae concerned, 2 2eognized at a useful Way of tending tome aspects of the insulation condition over yeare 1) Estimation ofthe suitability of a machine forthe application of appropriate overvoltage tests or for ‘operation may be bared on e comparison of present and previous PI andlor IRt values 11.1 Monitoring insulation condition We the insulation resistance history of the machine is available, comparison of the preseat teat result with [previous teste will support concerns about the umavlatin condition It us umportast, owever, to compace teste under similar conditions, that is, winding temperature, voltage magnitude, voltage duration, and relative humidity (ee Clause 6) For comparison of tests conducted at diferent winding temperature, the 20 of 26results should be corrected tothe same temperature (eee 63) ‘A-shaup decline inthe IR, ce P.4 fom the previous reading may indicate rurface coutemiantion, moisture, or severe nsulation damage, such as cracks. When alow P.L occurs at an elevated temperature (above 60 SO), a seeond measurement below 40 °C, but above the dew point, x recommended a2 a check on the real sntolation condivoa (eee 63) For tests conducted under similar conditions, a steady snceease inthe IR,, 4, a decrease sn the absorption feuorent with age may indicate deeompesition of the bonding material, expecially when the insulation saterials are of the thermoplastic (agphallic-mica or shellac mica-folium) ype 11.2 Suitability for operation or continued testing ‘When the sprulation renstance history isnot available, recommended minumum values of the BLL of M, say be used to estimate the mutabilty of the winding for application of an overvoltage tet o for operation (Gee Clause 12) If the UR, or Bis low because of dirt or excessive moisture, t may be improved to a0 acceptable value by cleaning and drying. When drying insulation, the Pf. can be used to indica when the dying process may be temminaied, i+. tbe PI results have exceeded the recommended minimum. IF the IK, low due t0 severe insulation deterioration ot damage, sperstion and overvoltngs testing of the machine are aot recommended Machines rated 10000 KVA. and lee should have rither a value ofthe polarization index or value of the smtolation resistance (a8 40°C) above the munimoun recomazended value (eee Clanee 12) for operation of farther overvoliage tests Machines rated abet 10 000 KVA should have beth the polarization index and the snsustion resistance shove the minimvm recomended valves (eee Classe 12) for operation or Further overvoltage testing Ee 1K, vals (at 40 °C) ie greater than 5000 MO, the Pu may be ambiguovs and can be deregarded (ree 122.3), For varnished cambrie, shellac mtca-folum, ef aephalte sater windings, 2 very high PL (for example sveaterthaa §) may indicate that the inmlation has beea thevsully aged, and any have a high csk of fuluce If physical wnepection (tapping on the ineulaion, Er instance) confirms thatthe insulation is dy and brite, iis best not to attempt cleaning or overvoltageterting the winding. Failure may occur at any time if je machine i cetumed to sevice It may be posnible to operate machines with PI and IR, values lower than the recommended minimom values, however, ibis not recommended by this standard, Tn all cases where the test values fall below the recommended minimum values, investigations should be undertaken te determine the cause of such low adings Histery of the windig, vitual saspeetions, and other test revults should be used to determine advisability of rebuming the wait to eervice 11.3 Limitations of the insulation resistance test Insulation cesisance test data ts ussful in evaluating the presence of rome sasulation problems such 2 contamination, absorbed moisture, or severe cracking. however, some Limitations areas follows 8) Taculation resistance of a winding isnot directly related to its dielectric te concentrated, ts ampossble to specify the value of inulin resstan tasulaten system of a winding will fa sngth Unless the defect ‘which the 21 of 261b) Windinge Raving an exteemely lage cad atu surace are, Large or slow-speed machines, o¢ machines with commutators may have insulation resistance values that are Jess than ‘recommended value. Ia these cates, historical trending of /RY i# snvaluable in evaluating insulation condition ©) Acsingleineulation esitance mensurement atone particular voltage does aot indie foreign matter is concentrated or catibuted throughout the winding 4) Dicsetoreltage measurements such as the IR and PI tests, may net detect internal insulation voids caused by improper smpregnasion, thermal deteoretion, or thermal eycling sm form-wwound state coils (eee Annex B) [Because inculation resistance tere are conducted while a machine ita stand, theze teste will ‘aot detect probleats dvs to rotation, rach at Locre cade, or vibration leading to eadwinding 12. Recommended minimum value of polarization index and insulation resistance 12.1 Minimum values The recommended minimum #1. and the recommended minimum value of IR, of aa ac or de rotating smochine winding are che owest values at which a winding is recommended for an overveltage testo for eperatoa In some cases, special insulating mateial or designs may provide lower values, Minimum values for these designs should be based on comparizen withthe ater test valuse 12.2 Polarization index ‘The recommended wisumvin values of Pl for ac and de rotating wachines act sted in Teble 2 Table 2ae bated on the therinal less of the insulating matenale and, with the exception of aoninsulated eld windings applies to all involating materials cegardess of application, ‘Table 2—Recommended minimum values of polarization index for all machine ‘components’ insulation classes per IEC 60085-01: 1984 Thermal cas rating, Minimum PL Claes A 15 cae 20 lass 20 late 20 “The P|. testis nat applicable to noninsulated Feld windings (see 12 21) 2 0f 26NOTE_itthe 1 min insulation resistance is above S000 MO, the calculated Ps. may not be messi In ch ‘anes, the P.Lay be dascegarded ae ameasve af nding copdiuon (2 12.2.1 Applicability of polarization index on field windings The purpose of the insulation sesitance and polarization index tests Us to determine whether of wot aa latulsiou symem 4s mitable for operstion or overvaltge tering The windings of roms indzcion machinery rotor ate often not insulated from the rotor body: therefore, « polarization index cannot be performed on these anduction machinery fotor windkags or held windings IF however, the sotor winding = ‘msuleted from the roter body, at sn wouad induction rotoce and salcot pole machines, a polanzation index teats applieble The feld windings of many very large turbine generators ae made with expozed copper that i¢ ot encapaulated in saeulaion, Though isolated from ground and other components via insulating sinps, the immense surface area of the nonuulated copper dees not exiubit an absorption cureat (7). 18, ‘omparitea to the leakage current ([), when mobjected to a direct voltage, The sbeeaze of the abromption current alter the IR characteristic curve (gee Figre 4) ach that there wll be very ite change im the JA value from the 1 mun tothe 10 mis evading. Thersfore the PL, which desenbes the dope ofthe IR curve, fact applicable to aoninlated eld winding On the other hand, many other types of Held windings do not heve appreciable amounts of exposed conductors. Taese denigas use conductors that are fully encapmulated ia asulation aad have a charactenstic sororption current (1) For these machines, the PT can be a worthwhile tet for assessing the condition of the inaulation system. The recommended sbinimum, based on the thermal close rating ofthe feld winding tnulaton, should be weed az arefereace 12.2.2 Applicability of polarization index when IR, Is greater than 5000 MO sang obtained ater the voltage has been applied for 1 min (HR) is higher than $000 1402, based on the magne of applied diret voltage, the total mearured current (1) can be in the submicrosmpere range (see Feguee 1) Atthis level of required test sastrumcat sonst, small changes ta the mupply voltage, ambient humidity, text connections, and other non-related componente can greatly sifect the total current measured durng the 1=10 min interval requed for a PT Because of these Phenomena, when the JR, 1s higher thea 3000 MS2, the P. may of may act be an indication of the tarulmiou condition aadis therefore aot zecommended ae an atreetmeat toc. 12.3 Insulation resistance The minimum speulation renstance after 1 min, My for overvetage tetuag of operation of ae and de ‘machine stator windings and rotor windings can be deermined fom Table 3 The actual winding insulation resistance to be used for comparison with IR, is the observed insulation ted ta 40 °C, obtained by applying a constant dyeet voltage fe the entre winding for 1 The monimom insulation resistance of one page ofa tree phase amature wondng tested with the other two phaste grounded sbould be approximately twice that of the entice winding Tf each phase is tested separately and guard circuits ate seed on the two pharer not under tert, the cbrerved minimum reretance shouldbe theeesimer te entre winding 12.3.1 Sealed Winding Conformance Test Final tet specifications for new machines often require the exposed areas of the stator winding to be 23 of 26completely soaked with an aqueous solution of known surTues tension A measurement of snculevon resistance ie used to establish thatthe insulation syste is sealed againt ingress by moisture. The detailed tem procedure and an acceptance entena are provided in IEEE 4, NEMA MG-1. NEMA MG1 gives a ‘minimum insolation esistance for a wented winding cf KV-41 MO. (Awaiting feedback from NEMA Mt ‘Technical Commsttee Chay on rationale forthe msnisnim value) ‘Table 3—Recommended minimum insulation resistance values at 40 °C (all values in MA) ‘Mini insation resistance megshis) ‘Test specimen Foros windings made before bout 1970, ll fold windings end there not desenbed below For most d= emature and awnings but ater about 1970 (form Rima For mod machines with andom-wowd ater oils and fora wound oil rated below LV NOTES IIR, isthe ecommended mimo ineulstionesiance, i xegohms. at 40°C of he ence machine winding {2A ete coed maskin teint tern voltage, moe 24 of 26Annex A (informative) Variants in polarization index ‘The pelarization sndex (PT) ie tadtionally defined a the rauo ofthe 10 mia insulation renistence Ik) to he {min insuloton resistance (IR), tested at a relatively constant temperature Tp older insulation imatecals, such as szphalicomica, the abrorpion currents often take 10 min or more to decay $9 neatly 2=r0 (Gee Figure 3). Ia more modern insulation systems for form-weund stators, and especially in random wound maciones, the absorpson cusseat may decay to nearly zero im 2-3 mun (see Feguse 4) Thus, for modem insulation, ome wstre calculate» variant of the comentional PI The vanants include, but are not limited to, those shown in Bquation (A. 1) and Equation (A 2) PL=IRAR, ap where PL isthe polarization index, IK, isthe insulation resistance reading after the application of voltage for min, BR 30 ¢ ie the insulation resistance reading after the application of voltage for 30 5 PL=IRAR, where PL ithe polanzaticn indes, JR, isthe snaulaton renstene oding after the applscation of voltage for 5 sa, IK, is the insulation resistance reading after the application of vollage for I min ‘The disuagvithing feamucee ace the shorter anesthe crect voltage is applied aad tue the shorter te that the winding must be grounded [see 65) Since wn modem windings the absorption cusrent 12 essentially aero after a few minutes, by using shorter times for the PI ratio. the test time can be considersbly shortened without aay loss of information about the degree of contamination or meisture absorption present, Another variation i to recerd the ansvlaticn reritance every muaute 2nd discontiave the tat wea ‘stable (hres consecutive readings) 1® has been measured ‘There are limitations in applying these ether ratios 8) There ts no standard for what time intervals the IR values are to be recorded. Ditte organizations use different ratios 1b) There iene agreed upon patt-fail criteria, as hat besn established forthe traditional PI ©) Users are encouraged to collect data employing shorter time ratios, to [sven to be developed ss the fur le ental poset 25 of 26Annex B (informative) Direct versus alternating voltage testing Directvoltage testing is normally done by applying a directveltage rource between the test specimen conductors end ground aadusing a de ammeter to measure the total cureat ‘The rauo ofthe test voltage to he test current will cefect the test specimen and ground Revistance ie determined by Equation @ 1) Repl ey where Risenstance pisresistivty ofthe matesial Luslength ofthe path ‘Ais crosr-rectoaal arsa Because the resistivity values of the det, oil, and water that often contaminate the endwinding areas of rotating machinery ace quite low, dgeet-oltage tenting of a contaminated windkag nesmally resulta in 2 high surface leakage current and subsequent low resistance reading. This property makes directraltage testing a viable meshod for deermining the extent of contamsnation to an snsulation eystem In adaiton, af the insulation system vslizes a cotton-backed tape with pica as the primary clectacal iarulauos, a deest- voltage tet might reveal whether or not the cotton has absorbed moisture and has a lower resistivity. Wote {et most windings manufactured ater 1970 do not have these hygroscopic tapes, and a dicect-voltage test ‘wll not onmally detect probleme soternal to the inguladon system, such at thermal deterioration Since the primary lectrical insulation used in the design of form-wound stator windings is mica, and mice hag vistully sndate renauvity (thus a geod insulator), only one layer of mice tape would probsbst any divect owteat, Therefore, if a void existe within the ineulstion dve 49 improper smpregaatioa, thermal Asteroration, or thermal cycling, a direct-voltage test would be unable to detect st If however, there exists a severe crack through the entre insulation, it ix possible that ap electrical tack would be established between the copper conductors and ground, and would appear ana low renistanee ‘When a high alternating voltage ts connected between the terminals of the test specimen and ground, the capacitance of the teat specimen doauiaater tbe cuzreat. Capacitance is dstermised by Equation @.2) crea wy vwhece Cs capacitance, sis dielectric permittivity of the materia, Ais eroas-rectonal area, ie the thickness of the material Since the dielectric permittivity of m insulation system ie greatly fected by the precense of voids andlor water, an alternating-voltage teat iz more sensitive than direct-veltage teste with regerd to detection of tatemal sasulanos problems agsocieted wah a types of unrulation systems, Because of the diferent test ‘eapabives, both a de and an ac tett should be conducted to mote completely atsets the condition of an ineulation system 26 of 26