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 features a robust, construction-site-suitable housing and is designed for use under demanding conditions. It enables measurement of insulation resistances in the range of 10 kΩ to 10 TΩ, with measurement accuracy varying by range: ±5 % of value ± 3 digits in the range 1 kΩ to 400 GΩ and ±15 % of value ± 10 digits in the range 400 GΩ to 10 TΩ. Test voltages are available in four predefined steps: 500 V, 1000 V, 2500 V and 5000 V, with voltage also programmable – from 40 V to 1000 V in 10-V steps and from 1000 V to 5100 V in 100-V steps. Measurement is performed using a rechargeable NiMH battery, designed for approximately one month of operation with 10 DAR and 5 PI measurements per day.

Applications

The device is used for insulation testing on cables, motors, generators, transformers and other electrical machines. It serves both for quick Go/No-Go testing and for qualitative assessment of insulation quality as part of preventive maintenance. Measurements are performed taking into account environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity, which can influence insulation values.

Functions and Equipment in Detail

The tester measures insulation resistance as well as voltages, capacitances (0.005 to 49.99 μF) and leakage currents (0.001 nA to 3 mA). Display is on a large, backlit LCD screen showing numerical values and a bar graph (bargraph). Measurement results can be stored in an internal memory of 4 kilobytes, with up to 20 measurement results archivable. Additionally, the device offers the option to record the R(t) curve (resistance over time).

Technology Explained Simply

Testing is performed with fixed or programmable test voltages. Test duration can be set between 1 and 59 minutes. The smoothing function (Smooth) enables digital filtering to stabilize measurement values. Voltage warning indication activates at 25 V to warn the operator of hazardous voltages. Test inhibition allows limiting the test voltage to make the device safer for less experienced operators.

Compatibility and Accessories

Various test leads are compatible with the device, including HV test leads 5 kV with crocodile clips in various lengths (3 m, 8 m, 15 m, 35 cm) as well as leads with axial sockets. Test probes with 4 mm socket CAT IV and CAT III 1000 V PVC are also available. A transport case is also available. The test leads are equipped with insulated high-voltage crocodile clips to ensure secure contact.

Mounting and Installation

The device is connected directly to the installations to be tested. The test leads are permanently connected to the crocodile clips. Power supply is via the built-in NiMH battery, which can be recharged using a power supply unit. A USB connector enables connection to a PC or printer (on models CA 6547 and CA 6549).

Operational Advantages

Automatic calculation of quality parameters DAR (Dielectric Absorption Ratio), PI (Polarization Index) and DD (Dielectric Discharge Index) enables detailed assessment of insulation quality. The increasing voltage ramp and adjustable test times (30 s to 59 min) expand application possibilities. Electrical safety complies with standards IEC 61010-1 CAT III 1000 V and CAT IV 600 V as well as IEC 61557. The housing is shock-resistant and sealed (IP 53), enabling use outdoors and under construction site conditions.