Test methods

The test methodology is based on verifying the characteristic curve that the MTCB (Magneto-thermal Circuit Breaker ) and DAS (Differential Automatic Switches ) are configured with from the factory, and which includes the following actions:

• Thermal zone curve (Joule effect) on which circuit protection against overloads is based, since excessive current for a certain length of time produces a thermal gradient that affects a bimetallic strip fitted in the switch. When the gradient exceeds a set value for a given time, this strip causes the switch to open.

• Thermal zone curve (Ampère’s Law) on which protection of the installation against short-circuits is based, defined by very high currents in respect of the dimension of the installation for a short period of time. In this case the actuator is an electro-magnet.

To perform the test, a series of currents at magnitudes that simulate and overload or short-circuit are injected into the tested device so that the time the circuit takes to open can be measured (trip time).

La entrada FN verification test. Current time characteristic curve se publicó primero en CEISLAB.

Test methods

The test method varies depending on the tested product, although attention is brought to the following:

• Pendulum hammer impact test
• Fall or impact test
• Compression test
• Traction test

La entrada Mechanical strength test se publicó primero en CEISLAB.

Test methods

The test method consists of subjecting different samples of the plastic material the test product is made of to temperatures between 100ºC and 125ºC for a set time in an oven.

The test temperature is determined by the position of the material inside the project (if it supports or carries active parts or if it is an enclosure). In some cases weight is applied in the form of a sphere during the test.

After the test, checks are made to see if there has been any deterioration to the sample or any significant deformation of the material.

La entrada Heat resistance test se publicó primero en CEISLAB.

Tests:

Supported pulse voltage

This test determines the capacity of the insulation of a product against electrical shock defined by a specified peak, form and polarity over a set time

Test methods

The test methodology established at CEISLAB permits voltage lengths with wave form of 1.2/50 µs with peak values up to 36 kV.

Voltage supported at industrial frequency. (Dielectric rigidity)

This test determines the capacity of the insulation of a product against sinusoidal electrical over-voltage at 50/60 Hz over a set period of time.

Test methods

The test methodology established at CEISLAB permits implementing voltages with senoidal waves with peak values up to 80 kV.

Insulation resistance

The objective of this test is to establish the opposition or difficulty afforded by the insulation of an electrical product to direct current passing through it. This test is particularly appropriate to detect accelerated ageing, the cause and any actions to correct such.

Test methods

The test voltage may vary from 500 V to 1 kV direct current.

La entrada Dielectric properties test se publicó primero en CEISLAB.

The main features that are verified in electrical products are as follows:

• Commercial reference name
• Dimensions
• Extended standard
• Rated voltage
• Rated current
• Nature of the current

Test methods

The methodology usually consists of a visual inspection of these items, although additionally indelibility and durability tests of the marking may be performed by rubbing them with a water and hydrocarbon solution over a set period of time.

This must be performed using an automated special implement on some products.

La entrada Marking test se publicó primero en CEISLAB.

Test methods

The normal operation or mechanical endurance test depends on the type of tested electrical device, and is defined by the normal voltage rating values and the circuit current or installation where the device is installed.

These tests can be classified according to the applied load to obtain circulation of current through the device:

• Inductive loads: These consist of resistors and inductors which simulate motors, fluorescent lamps, and in general any consumption ordinarily used in a home.
• Capacitive loads: These consist of resistors and condensors and simulate the application of loads with electronic components such as LED lamps.
  

La entrada Normal operation test se publicó primero en CEISLAB.

Test methods

Depending on the device specifications to be tested, different methods are applied. These methods include:

• Mechanical requirements: These tests are designed to verify correct mechanical functioning of the parts comprising the electrical device.
• Installation: Verifying that the construction of the device provides users with the connection and functioning of the equipment or device in the installation.
• Securing of the different accessories to the product: To guarantee that the necessary accessories for the functioning of the equipment are appropriately attached to it and do not detach during operation.
• Degree of protection of enclosures: This defines the specifications that the equipment enclosure must have to prevent ingress of liquids and solids.

La entrada Construction test se publicó primero en CEISLAB.

Test methods

The test method consists of subjecting the device to an overload defined by the rated current for a set period of time during which thermocouple sensors record the temperatures reached at different parts of the equipment.

The applied overload must be maintained for sufficient time for the temperature to reach a permanent level at the defined test points.

La entrada Heating se publicó primero en CEISLAB.

Test methods

The test methodology varies according to the specifications and the type of connection, i.e. if the terminal uses bolts/screws or not.

• Mechanical strength: These tests determine the ability of the terminal to maintain connection with the conductor.
• Electrical stresses: This consists of measuring the voltage drop in terminals for a set time.
• Thermal stresses: This test verifies the ability of the terminals to withstand the thermal inertia produced when current passes through them.

La entrada Terminals test se publicó primero en CEISLAB.

Test methods

The test method consists of subjecting different parts of the plastic material the test product is made of to temperatures between 650ºC and 960ºC by means of a glow wire.

The test temperature is determined by the position of the material inside the project (if it supports or carries active parts or if it is an enclosure).

During the test checks are made to see if the product has dripped, if there are any flames and the deterioration of the sample over a period of 30 seconds.

La entrada Abnormal heat test se publicó primero en CEISLAB.