EC&M Tech Talk — The Why, What, and How of High Potential (HiPot) Testing
In this EC&M Tech Talk, Randy Barnett, NFPA Certified Electrical Safety Compliance Professional, demonstrates how to safely use a high potential test set (HiPot) as he conducts an AC Dielecrtic Withstand Test.
Here is the Tech Talk in a nutshell:
- After a brief introduction into the terminology of the topic, Randy demonstrates the how-to side of safety when it comes to performing any test at greater than the insulation rating of the equipment.
- The difference between the dc Insulation Resistance Test and the High Potential Test are presented, then a dc insulation resistance test is performed.
- Important References are presented.
- The AC Dielectric Withstand Test basics are explained.
- A dc Insulation Resistance is performed on a 460 vac motor.
- An AC Dielectric Withstand Voltage Test is performed on the AC motor. Closeups of the HiPot screen shows how to setup the test set.
- Various HiPot applications bring the Tech Talk to a close.
If you have a need to learn what high potential testing is all about, or just want to learn more about testing methods, viewing this EC&M Tech Talk can be of great benefit.
About the Author
Randy Barnett
CESCP
Randy Barnett, electrical code and safety specialist, is a master electrician, ICC commercial electrical inspector, NFPA-certified electrical safety compliance professional and has worked as an electrician and technician in nuclear and coal-fired power plants, and in industrial maintenance and construction for 40 years. He is the author of Commercial and Industrial Wiring – American Technical Publishers, numerous articles, and is seen monthly on the EC&M Tech Talk video series for EC&M magazine. Randy conducts both online and in-person classes for NTT Training where he served as program manager for over 20 years. Randy’s resources can be found at www.randybarnett.net. His email is [email protected].