This article introduces Insulator testing details, including type tests, routine tests and sample tests types, such the insulator tests names and insulator specifications.

Type tests
Lightning impulse voltage test (clause 13 of IEC 60383-1)
Wet power-frequency voltage test (clause 14 of IEC 60383-1)
Verification of the dimensions (clause 17 of IEC 60383-1)
Electromechanical failing load test (only porcelain, clause 18 of IEC 60383-1)
Mechanical failing load test (except porcelain, clause 19 of IEC 60383-1)
Thermal mechanical performance test (clause 20 of IEC 60383-1)
Steep front-of-wave flashover voltage test (CAN/CSA-C4.11-M89)
Residual strength test (IEC 60797)
Hardness test, verification of resistance to bending (only split pin, clause 10 of IEC 60372)
Power arc test (IEC 61467)

Sample tests
Puncture withstand test (E2, clause 15 of IEC 60383-1)
Verification of the dimensions (E1 & E2 coupling gauging and other dimensions E2 only, clause 17 of IEC 60383-1)
Electromechanical failing load test (E1, except toughened glass, clause 18 of IEC 60383-1)
Mechanical failing load test (E1, except porcelain, clause 19 of IEC 60383-1)
Verification of the axial, radial and angular displacements (E1 & E2, clause 18 of IEC 60383-1)
Verification of the looking system (E1 & E2, clause 228 of IEC 60383-1)
Temperature cycle test (E1 & E2, except toughened glass, clause 23 of IEC 60383-1)
Thermal shock test (E2, except porcelain, clause 24 of IEC 60383-1)
Thermal mechanical performance test (E2, clause 20 of IEC 60383-1): only, temperature range shall be increased to maximum +50℃
Porosity test (E1, except porcelain, clause 25 of IEC 60383-1)
Galvanizing test (E2, clause 26 of IEC 60383-1)

Routine tests
Visual inspection test (clause 27 of IEC 60383-1)
Mechanical test (clause 28 of IEC 60383-1)
Electrical test (only porcelain, clause 16 of IEC 60383-1)

If one insulator or metal parts fail to comply with the sample tests, a new sample equal to twice the quantity of originally submitted to that test shall be subjected to retesting. If two or more insulator or metal parts fail to comply with the sample tests, or if any failure occurs during retesting, the complete lot is considered as not complying with specification and shall be withdrawn by manufacturer.

Insulator testing or insulator tests shall be done during insulator manufacturing process or after installation end fittings. These tests are important for electrical insulators sale.

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