Experience with AC hipot and partial discharge tests for commissioning generating station cables and switchgear

Test equipment is described which is suitable for AC hipot and partial discharge testing of 5 and 15 kV shielded cables of lengths up to about 600 m. The equipment can be used to test 5 and 15 kV metal-clad switchgear. Ontario Hydro's experience at two nuclear generating stations using this AC test equipment is presented. The equipment can be used to assure the integrity of cable systems (less than 600 m long) already in service. The reasons for switching to AC testing of cable systems are outlined. Practical experience shows that the partial-discharge test is very effective in identifying installation problems in cables and switchgear. A number of problems are identified with the AC tests that a DC test would have missed.<
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