Electrical insulation testers, also known as megohmmeters, are essential instruments for checking insulation resistance in cables, transformers, motors, generators, industrial installations and electrical systems. By applying a controlled test voltage, they detect early insulation faults, prevent current leakage, and ensure the safety of electrical installations.
What is an insulation tester and what is it used for?
An insulation tester is a specialised instrument for measuring very high resistances, usually in the range of megohms (MΩ). Unlike a conventional multimeter, an insulation tester applies test voltages (250 V, 500 V, 1000 V, or up to 5 kV in professional models) to assess whether an electrical system retains its insulating capacity.
It is essential for preventive maintenance, installation certification and inspection of new or repaired electrical equipment. These tests help prevent unexpected failures, unplanned downtime, and electrical accidents.
Electrical safety: CAT rating
Insulation testers are designed according to the IEC 61010 standard, which defines electrical safety categories to protect both the user and the instrument against transient overvoltages.
- CAT II: suitable for low-energy circuits such as household appliances, electronic devices and wall sockets.
- CAT III: suitable for building electrical installations, distribution boards and fixed lighting systems.
- CAT IV: maximum protection, designed for measurements at service entrances, meters, industrial installations and distribution networks.
Choosing a CAT III or CAT IV insulation tester ensures higher protection in industrial and high-voltage environments, reducing the risk of overvoltage damage.
Main applications of insulation testers
- Testing electrical cables in new installations, maintenance, and repairs.
- Inspection of three-phase motors and electrical generators.
- Quality control of power transformers and distribution systems.
- Checking distribution boards and industrial control systems.
- Monitoring photovoltaic installations and renewable energy systems.
- Inspection of medical electrical equipment requiring high safety standards.
- Electrical certification to comply with international standards.
Types of insulation testers
Depending on your needs, different types of instruments are available:
- Portable insulation testers: lightweight and easy to use on site.
- Digital megohmmeters: advanced features, data logging, PC connection.
- Analogue testers: robust and reliable in extreme conditions.
- High-voltage models: for testing substations and medium- to high-voltage environments.
How to choose the best insulation tester
- Available test voltage (250 V, 500 V, 1000 V or higher).
- Measurement accuracy and resistance range.
- Additional functions such as continuity, timer, internal memory or USB connection.
- Safety category CAT II, CAT III or CAT IV depending on the environment.
- Brand and warranty for quality assurance and after-sales support.
Benefits of using an insulation tester
- Increases the lifespan of electrical equipment.
- Reduces the risk of electrical failures and downtime.
- Enhances workplace safety in industrial installations.
- Facilitates compliance with national and international standards.
- Enables more efficient predictive maintenance.
Buy insulation testers at Electrónica Embaixadores
At Electrónica Embaixadores, you will find a wide range of electrical insulation testers from leading brands such as Chauvin Arnoux, PeakTech, Kaise, and MultiMetrix. Available as portable, digital, high-voltage professional models with data memory to meet all electrical industry needs.
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Order your insulation tester now
Order online at Electrónica Embaixadores and receive your electrical insulation tester with fast delivery and expert technical support. Ensure the electrical safety of your installations with a certified and reliable instrument. Order your insulation tester now and guarantee the reliability of your work.