Grid testing solutions must contend with difficult electromagnetic and environmental conditions, providing clean and reliable measurement results to ensure a reliable supply of power from production through to consumers. Electrical power is—in most cases—not produced where it is consumed. The power grid covers the infrastructure connecting plants with end users, ultimately transporting electrical energy from where it is produced to where it is used.
The power grid is organized into different voltage levels from a few hundred volts (LV), to several 10 kV (MV) up to several 100 kV (HV), depending on the amount of power transportation capacity needed. Thus grid testing products must be capable of handling starkly different voltage levels.
The different voltage levels are interconnected by substations which contain voltage transformers, circuit breakers, surge arrestors, isolators etc. as well as other measurement equipment and switchgear.
High voltage testing encompasses various methods designed to evaluate the performance and reliability of electrical equipment under high voltage conditions. Each type of test serves a specific purpose and provides unique insights into the equipment’s integrity and safety.
Circuit breakers are ubiquitous wherever there are electrical circuits that need protection against excess current caused by an overload or short circuit. They range in size and capacity from devices the size of a fingernail used for semiconductor protection to devices as large as a truck designed to protect the high-voltage circuits that supply power to cities.
The three types of high voltage are continuous, alternating, and impulse. Continuous high voltage provides a steady flow of electricity, while alternating high voltage changes direction periodically. Impulse high voltage is used to simulate transient surges, such as lightning strikes. Each type plays a crucial role in different applications within electrical systems.
A standard multimeter is typically designed to measure low to moderate voltages and may not be suitable for high voltage measurements due to safety and accuracy concerns. High voltage measurements require specialized equipment, such as high voltage probes or dedicated high voltage meters, to ensure accurate readings and user safety. Using a standard multimeter for high voltage can be dangerous and is not recommended. Always use the appropriate tools and follow safety protocols when working with high voltage systems.
High voltage can be identified by specific warning signs and labels, such as the universally recognized high voltage symbol (a lightning bolt) and cautionary text. Additionally, high voltage areas are often enclosed with barriers or marked with warning signs to prevent accidental contact. Equipment designed for high voltage use typically has insulation and components rated for high voltage levels. Always follow safety protocols and use appropriate protective gear when working near high voltage systems.
This will bring together HBM, Brüel & Kjær, nCode, ReliaSoft, and Discom brands, helping you innovate faster for a cleaner, healthier, and more productive world.
This will bring together HBM, Brüel & Kjær, nCode, ReliaSoft, and Discom brands, helping you innovate faster for a cleaner, healthier, and more productive world.
This will bring together HBM, Brüel & Kjær, nCode, ReliaSoft, and Discom brands, helping you innovate faster for a cleaner, healthier, and more productive world.
This will bring together HBM, Brüel & Kjær, nCode, ReliaSoft, and Discom brands, helping you innovate faster for a cleaner, healthier, and more productive world.
This will bring together HBM, Brüel & Kjær, nCode, ReliaSoft, and Discom brands, helping you innovate faster for a cleaner, healthier, and more productive world.
This will bring together HBM, Brüel & Kjær, nCode, ReliaSoft, MicroStrain and Discom brands, helping you innovate faster for a cleaner, healthier, and more productive world.
