Ever wondered what a generator does? Generators are special machines that convert mechanical energy into electrical energy. In other words, it draws energy from moving objects, be it engines or wind, and converts it into electricity we can use. There are lots of places, like hospitals, schools, factories, etc. which is very heavily dependent on generators. Without generators, these places might not function or have lights. Since generators are critical, regular checks are required to ensure they are clean and functional. One of the tests that these machines undergo is a hipot test, or high potential test. This test ensures that the generator is safe to turn on.
A hipot test must be conducted on a generator before it can be put into operation to ensure work safety. It tests for the integrity of the insulation, which is the material that keeps the electricity inside the wires of the generator. If this insulation gets broken and reduced, very dangerous situations may occur such as electrical shocks (damaging people), fires (damaging goods), and even explosions (life-threatening). Testing regularly can prevent issues from becoming serious, so it keeps everyone safe. Tanbos knows how vital electrical safety is and provides professional hipot testing services to ensure your generators can work safely for you.
The hipot is performed by applying high voltage to the generator. This voltage is typically somewhere between 1,000 and 15,000 volts and that's serious power! Talented experts who know how to do this test execute the test very carefully and they also observe strict safety precautions to keep themselves safe and the people around them. The test checks for all insulation concerns with the generator and any electrical defaults that could create troubles (up to November, 2023). Experts will then assess if something isn't working properly or is defective, and will repair or replace it with a new part. Tanbos conducts a carefull and detailed testing process to ensure your generators are compliant to all new safety regulations and standards. To ensure your generator is safe to use.
A hipot test can indeed identify a lot of common issues with generators. These issues include worn insulation, damaged windings, short circuits, etc. Fraying insulation indicates that the protective shell surrounding the wires is old and may no longer perform well. That can cause the generator to operate less effectively and can damage its life expectancy or how long it lasts. “Damaged windings” refers to the coils inside the generator that carry electricity being broken or out of commission. This can cause electrical shorts, which create problems, or it can cause the generator to put out less power than it should. A short circuit occurs when electricity runs along a shortcut in the wires, leading to overheating. You can imagine this overheating as a super dangerous event, like a fire or even explosion. By catching these issues early on with the hipot test, Tanbos can help you avoid catastrophic failures and have your generators last longer and run better.
The importance of generator testing is vital as it can prevent serious electrical malfunctions. Detecting problems because they progress to larger maintenance issues will save money on fixing those parts, and keep things running. Tanbos advises that generators be tested at least annually. It's particularly beneficial to do this before busy seasons when you'll be relying on the generator the most. Regular testing can help you save cash with fewer unexpected repairs and hours of downtime. It also reduces fire hazard risk and explosion risk, which could result in extensive equipment and building damage. When it does, it can cause big headaches for your business or organization. Partnering with Tanbos for your hipot testing ensures that your generators are safe and buy you peace of mind, allowing everything to operate seamlessly.