Improving the accuracy and overall value of stator winding insulation assessments for operational generators, through laboratory based insulation research tests on stator bars

The Technology Research and Investigations division of Eskom's Technology Group (T-R-I) is currently investigating the technical and logistical merit of performing offline quadratic-rate partial discharge tests on the stator winding insulation of its hydro- and turbo-generators. A series of laboratory based insulation research studies on stator bars have been conducted to gain a better understanding of the various partial discharge phenomena involved. Results thus far obtained from these tests have provided valuable insight into the discharge activity of operational generators.