testing wire integrity

[ismaelbucio]

How can you test the wire integrity before connecting to main line power, I am putting 120/208 three phase and I would like to test before connecting main power. I learn how to use the megger but I don't have one, and I would like to use my volt meter and put it in Ohms or Continuity and go from there but I am not exactly one hundred percent sure any tips?

 

[maghazadeh]

How can you test the wire integrity before connecting to main line power, I am putting 120/208 three phase and I would like to test before connecting main power. I learn how to use the megger but I don't have one, and I would like to use my volt meter and put it in Ohms or Continuity and go from there but I am not exactly one hundred percent sure any tips?

The only test you can do at this time is insulation resistance test, which that is accomplished by applying voltage for a certain amount of time to the wire. Megger does generate voltages needed to do this test, but a normal volt meter is not a right tool for that.

 

[kwired]

A regular meter will not do an insulation test, it is still a good idea to at least do a continuity check in case there is a short circuit or ground fault before turning power on. Any continuity where it does not belong is a bad thing, and you especially would not want to be plugging in a POCO meter while live if that is the case. (Even though you are not supposed to plug meters in while live)

 

[gndrod]

OJT

OJT

How can you test the wire integrity before connecting to main line power, I am putting 120/208 three phase and I would like to test before connecting main power. I learn how to use the megger but I don't have one, and I would like to use my volt meter and put it in Ohms or Continuity and go from there but I am not exactly one hundred percent sure any tips?

Depending on the extent of testing a BC or complete system, a hi-pot test would best check the conductor insulation strength for any dielectric weakness or damage that may exist against a complete grounded/grounding system. i noticed your profile of possibly being in an USAF affiliate, you may have an opportunity to get into a training program that may have available hi-pot testing of both aircraft and Ground support equipment cabling validation. (Note that hi-pot levels can have breakdown results from improper test settings.)

 

[K8MHZ]

Depending on the extent of testing a BC or complete system, a hi-pot test would best check the conductor insulation strength for any dielectric weakness or damage that may exist against a complete grounded/grounding system. i noticed your profile of possibly being in an USAF affiliate, you may have an opportunity to get into a training program that may have available hi-pot testing of both aircraft and Ground support equipment cabling validation. (Note that hi-pot levels can have breakdown results from improper test settings.)

Some cables will have their warranty voided if a hi-pot test is done on them. Technically, it is a form of destructive testing.

I would check with the mfg. of the cable before doing any hi-pot testing.