
KEMA Labs, based in Chalfont, Pennsylvania, has completed substantial enhancements to its test platform for surge arresters, marking a significant advancement in the realm of electrical equipment testing. The upgrades, finalized during the fall of 2022, adhere to the stringent requirements outlined in IEEE C62.11, IEC 60099-4, and IEC 60099-8, ensuring compliance with industry standards.
Critical improvements have been implemented across various aspects of the testing platform, with a primary focus on enhancing precision and safety. One notable enhancement includes the reinforcement of the main feed bus, a vital component responsible for energy delivery during tests. Modifications to the base pedestal and the dimensions of the test base surface further contribute to the platform's efficacy.
Notably, the enclosure of the test platform has been revamped with non-metallic materials to concentrate the arc on the test object throughout the testing process, ensuring accurate results. Moreover, advancements in magnetics during the arc shot process have been achieved, facilitated by a main feed bus equipped with adjustable height capabilities to accommodate surge arrestors of different sizes.
Additionally, the integration of a double 45-inch return connection on the return bus enhances the versatility of the setup, accommodating various surge arrester configurations with porcelain and polymer types. These upgrades, coupled with the utilization of heavy-duty aluminium connections, offer a lightweight yet robust solution capable of withstanding extreme high-current testing scenarios.
Furthermore, for pre-failure testing, a Cleaveland Price 2-way high-current switch has been deployed, enabling a seamless transition from the pre-failure circuit to the short-circuit supply. This innovative approach, equipped with live voltage and current monitoring, ensures precise determination of the pre-failure moment, thereby enhancing testing accuracy.
The advancements made by KEMA Labs underscore a commitment to excellence in surge arrester testing, with a focus on precision, safety, and adherence to industry standards.
Source: electricenergyonline.com