Impulse Current Generator
4/10μs & 8/20μs Impulse Current Generator for Arrester/MOV Testing
This specialized impulse current generator performs residual voltage tests and current withstand tests on Metal Oxide Varistors (MOVs) per IEC 60099-4 (2014) standards, featuring dual waveform capabilities for comprehensive surge protection evaluation.
Key Testing Capabilities
| Waveform | Peak Current | Max Residual Voltage | Standard Test |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8/20μs | 20kA | 20kV @ 20kA | Lightning Impulse Residual Voltage |
| 4/10μs | 120kA | 28kV @ 100kA | High Current Impulse Withstand |
System Specifications
Electrical Parameters
Current Transformers:
4/10μs: 200kA/500V (250V with terminator)
8/20μs: 50kA/500V (250V with terminator)
Voltage Divider: 300:1 resistive type
Power Supply: 3-phase 380V/400V + 1-phase 230V (50/60Hz)
Control & Safety
Digital oscilloscope (Tektronix 500MHz, 4-channel)
Isolated HV compartment with insulating barriers
External interlock (dry contact for test readiness)
Modular LC circuit configuration
Measurement Parameters
Residual voltage (peak)
Discharge current magnitude
Energy absorption (calculated)
Current waveform parameters (Tf/Tt)
Custom Test Cabinet
The system features a configurable test chamber with:
Adjustable dimensions for various MOV sizes
Insulated sample compartment
Quick-change LC circuit connections
Testing Workflow
Position MOV/arrester in test cabinet
Select waveform (4/10μs or 8/20μs)
Initiate impulse sequence via control panel
Automated measurement of:
Residual voltage
Current waveform characteristics
Energy absorption
System auto-documents test results
Why This Solution?
Dual-Waveform Testing: Single system handles both 4/10μs and 8/20μs tests
Extreme Current Capacity: Up to 120kA for rigorous MOV validation
Precision Measurement: 500MHz oscilloscope ensures waveform accuracy
Safety-First Design: Isolated HV section and interlock system
Conclusion
This impulse current generator provides complete IEC 60099-4 compliant testing for MOV arresters, combining high-current 4/10μs (120kA) and standard 8/20μs (20kA) waveforms in one system. The customizable test cabinet and precision measurement capabilities make it ideal for quality assurance in surge protector manufacturing.
