25 Jun-2025
In the detection and maintenance of electrical engineering and electronic technology, dielectric withstand voltage and insulation resistance are two key electrical performance indicators. They are often used to assess the safety and reliability of electrical equipment, insulating materials and circuits. Although there are certain connections between the two in terms of testing purposes and methods, their essences and application scenarios are significantly different.
The definition and function of medium pressure resistance
Dielectric withstand voltage, also known as withstand voltage test, refers to applying a voltage higher than the normal working voltage to the insulating medium within a certain period of time to test its ability to withstand voltage surges. The core lies in detecting whether insulating materials will break down or generate discharge phenomena under the action of extreme electric fields. Withstand voltage testing usually employs alternating voltage or direct voltage, and the test duration generally ranges from a few seconds to several minutes, depending on the standard and the test object.
The significance of dielectric withstand voltage testing lies in confirming whether the insulation structure has sufficient strength and stability when encountering abnormal voltages, thereby preventing equipment damage or safety accidents caused by insulation failure. For instance, in the production and maintenance processes of electrical components such as transformers, switchgear, and insulators, dielectric withstand voltage testing is an indispensable inspection method.
The definition and function of insulation resistance
Insulation resistance refers to the magnitude of the impedance of insulating materials or equipment to direct current, reflecting their ability to prevent current leakage. Insulation resistance testing typically employs a direct current voltage (generally 500V, 1000V or higher) to measure the resistance value across the insulator. The higher the insulation resistance is, the better the insulation performance is and the smaller the leakage current is.
Insulation resistance testing is mainly used to determine the dryness degree, aging condition of insulating materials, and whether there are conductive paths or contaminants. This test is widely used in the maintenance and inspection of cables, transformer windings, motor windings and electrical equipment. It can promptly detect problems such as insulation damage or decline in insulation performance, and prevent electrical faults.
The difference between dielectric withstand voltage and insulation resistance
1.The purpose of the test: The key point of the withstand voltage test for different media is to verify whether the insulating material can withstand high voltage without breakdown, which belongs to the strength test. Insulation resistance testing, on the other hand, focuses on measuring the resistance value of insulators and evaluating their ability to prevent current leakage. It is a performance test.
2. The nature of the test voltage is different. The medium withstand voltage mostly adopts high-voltage AC or DC voltage, which is much higher than the normal operating voltage of the equipment. Insulation resistance tests typically employ a lower DC voltage, with the aim of measuring resistance rather than breakdown.
3. The test time and method are different. The dielectric withstand voltage test time is relatively short, usually a few seconds to several minutes, with a focus on observing whether the insulation has broken down or discharged. The insulation resistance test takes a relatively long time, usually several minutes, to measure the stability of the resistance value.
4. Different medium withstand voltages are applicable to the factory inspection of new equipment and the detection after major maintenance to ensure the integrity of the insulation structure. Insulation resistance is more suitable for daily maintenance and operation status monitoring, reflecting changes in insulation conditions.
5. Result determination criteria: The results of withstand voltage tests for different media are usually determined based on whether there is breakdown or discharge, and whether they are qualified or not is relatively intuitive. The insulation resistance test results are based on the size of the resistance value and need to be analyzed in combination with the type of equipment and environmental conditions.