Realistic Approach to Insulation Testing

If one makes an attempt to discard from publications on electrical insulation subjects the various hypothetical and conditional expressions, as well as definitions of technical terms, chosen by individuals rather than taken from already existing standards, not much convincing evidence remains in support of definite insulating breakdown criteria and test procedures. Contributing further to this controversial situation is the apparent disregard for both the still valid elementary laws and the feasibility of the still possible operational, non-destructive testing, but instead of the former increasing emphasis is still placed on the high-potential, destructive mode of testing for which no voltage limitations seem to be in sight. An analysis of the history on dielectrics, followed by a review of the basic natural laws governing these materials resulted in a series of recommendations toward the realistic use and nondestructive testing of insulating materials.