This month we released the ACVB and DCVB tests for the AT3600 transformer tester.

The new tests are AC and DC versions of Voltage Breakdown tests that may be used for checking the correct operation of surge suppression devices that are often fitted to transformers and other equipments connected to a regular ac supply.

Surge suppression devices such as Metal-Oxide Varistors (MOV), absorb excessive voltages caused by events such lightning strikes from reaching sensitive parts of electrical equipment and causing damage or possible personal injury.

The tests, called DCVB (dc voltage breakdown) and ACVB (ac voltage breakdown) operate by applying an increasing voltage to the device until the AT3600 measures a certain level of current flows through the device:

If the voltage level at which this occurs is between two set limits the device has passed the test In other words, the device will absorb voltages above a certain value.

If the voltage level continues to rise to the upper limit without the current reaching its proper value the device has failed.

These tests had been requested by a major international transformer manufacturer who have have facilities in Germany, Singapore, China and many other countries.

For more information, download the latest user manual and PC Editor from this website using the links on the left.