Chauvin Arnoux CA 6550 insulation tester 10 kV content_copy

The Chauvin Arnoux CA 6550 is a professional insulation tester with a maximum test voltage of 10 kV, specifically designed for use in industrial electrical engineering and for maintenance of high-voltage installations. The device is used for qualitative and quantitative evaluation of insulation resistance in electrical systems, motors, generators, transformers, and cables, particularly in environments with operating voltages from 12 kV. It complies with the IEEE 43 standard, which prescribes test voltages between 5 and 10 kV for testing rotating machines with high operating voltages. The robust construction with IP53 protection rating makes the device suitable for use on construction sites and in industrial environments.

Applications

The CA 6550 is used in manufacturing, during maintenance and repair work, and for commissioning of installations. It is designed for electricity suppliers, plant manufacturers, installers, maintenance companies, research centres, and infrastructure operators. Testing is performed on machines, motors, cables, transformers, generators, overhead lines, underground transmission networks, and surge arresters. Measurements are carried out in the range of 10 kΩ to 25 TΩ (at 500 V), with the measurement range extending up to 30 TΩ at higher voltages, as specified in the manufacturer’s description.

Functions and Equipment in Detail

The device offers flexible test voltage adjustment from 40 V to 10 kV, with three pre-configured voltage values available. Voltage can be adjusted in steps of 10 V (up to 1 kV) or 100 V (from 1 kV onwards). Additionally, the ramp mode enables continuous voltage increase with three pre-configured ramps, defined by start voltage, end voltage, and duration. The step mode allows up to 10 configurable steps with individual values and durations. Measurement is performed with a maximum charging current of 5 mA, while leakage current up to 8 mA can be measured. Automatic discharge after testing ensures operator safety.

Technology Explained Simply

Measurement is displayed on a large, backlit LCD screen, which shows digital values as well as graphical representations such as R(t)+u(t), i(t), and i(u). Integrated filters with variable time constants reduce measurement noise and stabilise results. Calculation of ratios such as DAR (Dielectric Absorption Ratio), PI (Polarization Index), DD (Dielectric Discharge), SV (Slope Value), and DR (ppm/V) enables deeper analysis of insulation quality. Resistance conversion to a reference temperature aids comparability of measurements under different conditions. The integrated real-time clock and memory for 256 recordings with a total of 80,000 measurement points (R, U, I, timestamp) support documentation and long-term monitoring.

Compatibility and Accessories

The CA 6550 is equipped with an optically isolated USB interface, enabling secure data transfer to a PC. The accompanying software DataView® supports evaluation and report generation. Available accessories include various HV test leads (15 kV, in lengths of 3 m, 8 m, 15 m, 50 cm) with crocodile clips (red, blue, black) as well as guard leads. Additional accessories include test probes with 4 mm socket CAT IV and CAT III 1000 V, a power cable, an optical USB cable, a set of 3 crocodile clips, and a transport bag. The test leads are rated for category 1000 V CAT IV, ensuring safety during high-voltage testing.

Mounting and Installation

The device requires no additional mounting; it is designed as a portable measuring instrument. Power supply is via rechargeable NiMH batteries (8 x 1.2 V / 4000 mAh), which are charged using an external charger with voltage range 90–260 V, 50/60 Hz. Installation is performed by simply connecting the test leads to the test objects.

Operational Advantages

The CA 6550 enables precise and safe insulation testing using various test methods, including Burning-Tests (duration test), Early Break-Tests (di/dt), and I-Limit-Tests (programmable current limit). These methods support preventive maintenance by detecting ageing processes in insulation material. Graphical display and storage of measurement values facilitate analysis and documentation. Compliance with the IEC 61557-1/-2 standard and classification 1000 V CAT IV according to IEC 61010-1 ensures electrical safety. The robust construction and IP53 protection rating make the device suitable for use under harsh conditions.

Dimensions and Weight

The device has dimensions of 406 x 330 x 174 mm and weighs approximately 6 kg. The size is designed for transport and handling on construction sites and in workshops.

Additional Functions

Voltage measurement is performed before and after the test in the range AC 0–2500 V and DC 0–4000 V. Capacitance measurement is possible from 500 V and covers the range 0.001–9.999 µF and 10.00–19.99 µF. Test stop modes include a programmable current limit (0.2–5 mA), an early break (di/dt), and a timer up to 99:59 minutes. Automatic calculation of R at reference temperature and filtering of measurement values improve accuracy and reproducibility of results.

Eigenschaften
Test voltages	10 kV
Insulation measurement, fixed test voltages	500 / 1000 / 2500 / 5000 / 10.000 V
Voltage measurement before and after test	AC : 0 - 2500 V DC : 0 - 4000 V
Capacitance measurement (> 500 V)	0,001-9,999 µF / 10,00-19,99 µF
Graphics on display	R(t)+u(t) ; i(t) ; i(u)
Dimensions / weight	406 x 330 x 174 mm, ca. 6 kg
Calculation of R at reference temperature

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