IR5050 High Voltage Insulation Tester

Detailed Product Overview

The IR5050 is a portable high voltage insulation tester. It offers five insulation test voltage ranges from 250 V to 5 kV and seven insulation resistance ranges from 10.0 MΩ to 10.0 TΩ. Bluetooth connectivity enables fast and efficient data transfer directly to smartphones or tablets when used with the optional Z3210 Bluetooth adapter. The IR5050’s compact, lightweight design makes it an ideal tool for on-site use. The included hard case ensures suitability for IP65 environments, providing protection against dust and water. With a 2000 V CAT III safety rating, it guarantees safe measurements for high voltage systems under CAT III. An automatic discharge function adds extra safety by discharging residual charge after measurements, while shielded cables and guarding minimize noise influence for stable, reliable results. 

Insulation resistance values are useful for instant evaluation but insufficient for assessing aging, moisture, and contamination in detail. Additionally, insulation resistance fluctuates with temperature and humidity, making a single measurement unreliable for determining long-term degradation. To address this, the IR5050 includes measurement functions for Polarization Index (PI), Dielectric Absorption Ratio (DAR), and Dielectric Discharge (DD) to provide a more comprehensive assessment.

The Polarization Index (PI) is a test used to examine the increase of leakage current in insulating materials over time. Typically, it is expressed as the ratio of the insulation resistance value after 10 minutes of applied voltage to that after 1 minute. PI is an important diagnostic measure for cable insulation as it is unaffected by the shape or size of the insulation and is sensitive to moisture absorption.

The Dielectric Absorption Ratio (DAR) follows the same methodology as PI but requires a shorter duration. DAR is defined as the ratio between insulation resistance values measured from 30 seconds to 1 minute after voltage application and those measured from 15 seconds to 30 seconds. When leakage currents stabilize quickly within 1 minute, DAR is preferred for its efficiency.

The Dielectric Discharge (DD) method is particularly effective for diagnosing multi-layer insulation. It evaluates internal degradation by measuring the discharge current and the capacitance value of the insulating material one minute after the test ends.

Combining a wide measurement range, comprehensive diagnostic capabilities, and user-friendly operation, the IR5050 is an indispensable instrument for professionals seeking efficient and reliable insulation resistance measurements. It significantly enhances the safety and reliability of critical electrical installations, such as high voltage cables, contributing to stable equipment operation and accurate diagnostics.