Dielectric Strength Test

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craigwithak

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I need to know what it is and how to perform the dielectric strength test, Is it the combination of continuity, operational and polarity tests? I am using a Greenlee CM-600 clamp on meter to test continuity. A receptecle tester (plug in style) that lights to show the receptacle is operational and the polarity is correct. I am composing a quality control inspection manual and would appreciate any help. I need to outline how these steps will be performed. Thanks
 
I am installing a 100 amp exterior service panel onto a portable office space made from a steel shipping container. There is an hvac unit mounted on the end next to the service panel (30 amp 2 pole breaker) connected with 3/4 inch liquid tite hose and fittings. Power is 208/240 single phase. there are 3 additional circuits in the panel.
(1)15 amp single pole for the interior lighting (2, 2 bulb, 32 watt ,48" flourescent light fixtures)

(2) 20 amp breakers

(1) 4 receptacles inside the office
(2) a 20 amp GFCI monted on the exterior in a weatherproof box
The ground bar is mounted inside the panel with #4bare copper wire extruding from the box and clamped the container to attatch ground rods into the earth.
 
I often receive calls like this, USUALLY the "tester" is in over his head, if you are not sure about how to perform a test IMO the time to learn is not during an inspection that requires your EXPERTISE.
 
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craigwithak said:
So you don't know either. Thanks
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My comment was not meant to slam you but to give you some helpful advice.

I have spent 27 plus years in electrical testing, I do know somethings, not everything but some. What I am trying to stop you from doing is getting in to deep at the wrong time. Learning new procedures, IMO is a wonderful thing for all involved in our trade. Learning in the middle of a job generally is not good. I have reviewed countless reports by contractors that tried to do electrical test and it is obvious they did not understand what they were doing. It becomes an embarrassment for them and often cost them money. There are companies that specialize in electrical testing, if I were you I would contract one of these companies and hang with them you might learn something.

Owning test equipment and knowing how to use that equipment is one thing understanding the test results is another.
 
I would never perform a dielectric strength on 240/208, a dielectric strength tests the dielectric strength of insulation by measuring leakage current and finding a breakdown voltage.

Maybe you can do a Insulation Resistance test using a megometer, i recommend downloading "A stich in time" from the megger website, that covers the basics of Insulation resitance testing.
 
do you even own a HI-POT tester...I guess I will hook you up with some links on it..I really do not understand why you feel you need this test..This is not a mobile structure is it..I mean on wheels and able to be towed or driven..

http://www.ce-mag.com/archive/02/Spring/gray.html

http://www.hipot.com/resource/white_papers/tmh.pdf

http://www.hipot.com/resource/white_papers/safe_testing.pdf

I just want to help here I can see where this is headed..Brian is smart when it comes to this stuff and so is marc..when it comes to gadgets they are MR gadget so give them a chance..
 
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