Eigenschaften
Voltage warning indicator	Ja > 25 V
Dimensions / weight	270 x 250 x 180 mm / 4,3 kg

The Chauvin Arnoux insulation tester is a digital measuring instrument for quantitative and qualitative testing of insulation resistances in electrical installations and devices. The device is designed for use on construction sites and in industrial environments and features a robust, shock-resistant housing with a sealed lid, providing a protection class of IP53. It enables measurement of insulation resistances in the range of 10 kΩ to 10 TΩ, depending on the selected test voltage. The test voltages are available in four predefined steps: 500 V, 1000 V, 2500 V, and 5000 V. Additionally, the test voltage can be programmably set between 40 V and 5100 V, with steps of 10 V up to 1000 V and 100 V from 1000 V onwards. This flexibility allows adaptation to different testing situations and requirements.

Applications

The insulation tester is used for inspection and maintenance of electrical machines, cables, motors, generators, and transformers. It serves both for simple Go/No-Go tests and for qualitative measurements as part of preventive maintenance. Measuring insulation resistance helps detect early deterioration of insulation quality due to moisture, dirt, corrosion, or mechanical damage. The device class corresponds to IEC 61010-1 CAT III 1000 V and CAT IV 600 V, allowing its use in electrical installations with the corresponding voltage category.

Functions and Equipment in Detail

The device features a large, backlit LCD display showing numerical values and a bar graph. This enables quick visual evaluation of measurement results. In addition to insulation resistance, voltages, capacitances (0.005 to 49.99 μF), and leakage currents (0.001 nA to 3 mA) are displayed. The measurement can be performed using a rising voltage ramp to evaluate insulation quality under various voltage conditions. The test inhibition function allows limiting the test voltage as needed, which is particularly useful for less experienced operators.

Technology Explained Simply

The test is performed by applying a defined voltage to the object under test and measuring the resulting leakage current. The insulation resistance is calculated from this current. Measurement accuracy is ±5 % of the value ± 3 digits in the range of 1 kΩ to 400 GΩ, and ±15 % of the value ± 10 digits in the range of 400 GΩ to 10 TΩ. The measurement can be programmed for a duration of 1 to 59 minutes to evaluate insulation stability over longer periods. The smoothing function (Smooth) stabilizes measurement values through digital filtering, which is particularly helpful under unstable or noisy measurement conditions.

Compatibility and Accessories

Various accessories are available to extend functionality, including HV test leads in different lengths (3 m, 8 m, 15 m, 35 cm) with insulated high-voltage crocodile clips, test probes with 4 mm sockets CAT III and CAT IV 1000 V, and a transport case. The test leads are equipped with axial sockets or crocodile clips to enable flexible connection to different test objects. The leads are rated for a test voltage of 5 kV and provide a secure connection.

Mounting and Installation

The device is connected directly to the object under test, with the test leads placed on the test points via crocodile clips or test probes. Power supply is via rechargeable NiMH batteries, which are sufficient for approximately one month of operation if 10 DAR and 5 PI measurements are performed daily. The device features a folding handle for space-saving storage and a socket for the mains cable as well as for recharging the batteries.

Operational Advantages

The insulation tester enables comprehensive evaluation of insulation quality through automatic calculation of quality parameters DAR (Dielectric Absorption Ratio), PI (Polarization Index), and DD (Dielectric Discharge Index). These parameters provide valuable information about the condition of the insulation and its aging. Measurement results can be stored in internal memory (4 KB for R(t) curves, 20 measurement results). The bar graph display supports quick visual interpretation of results. The voltage warning indicator shows voltages above 25 V, providing additional safety. The programmable test duration and adjustable PI times (30 s to 59 min) allow flexible adaptation to specific requirements.