Megger Vidar – Vacuum Interrupter Tester

Product Overview: Megger Vidar – Vacuum Interrupter Tester

Megger Vidar – Vacuum Interrupter Tester

Tests the integrity of vacuum interrupters quickly, safely and easily
User defined voltage selection
Extensive voltage range
Easy to operate. Follows ANSI/IEEE standardized DC test methods.
Lightweight and portable

It is crucial to be able to determine whether the Vacuum Interrupter (VI) is intact before re-entering service when a vacuum circuit breaker is being commissioned or undergoing routine testing.

The known relationship between the flashover voltage and the vacuum interrupter allows you to rapidly and conveniently check the integrity of the vacuum interrupter using VIDAR. The breaker is subjected to a proper test voltage (DC), and the outcome is instantly apparent.

With VIDAR, you can choose between test voltages ranging from 10 to 60 kV DC. When placing an order, the buyer can choose and modify one of these voltages. A green lamp signifies the interrupter’s consent. When the lamp goes red, something is wrong. Safety is improved with two-hand operation and a high-voltage warning lamp.

Leading vacuum circuit breaker manufacturers have worked closely with VIDAR to design the system. Since vacuum chambers do not need to be dismounted for testing, it weighs just around 7 kg (15 lbs) and is simple to operate.
VIDAR is therefore perfect for applications on the shop floor or in the field.

To evaluate whether the vacuum chamber can prevent flashovers, utilize the VIDAR vacuum interrupter tester. The robust, lightweight, portable, and VIDAR is perfect for shop floor and outdoor work applications.
Vacuum chambers’ internal pressure does not last indefinitely. Leakage begins after a few years or decades, and the air-filled interrupters render the breaker unreliable. Once a leak has begun, it typically spreads quickly.
In addition to leaks, filth on the poles and the vacuum chamber’s outer surface can make it dangerous to operate. The mechanics of the breaker may misalign, causing the pole spacing to become insufficient.

The curve shown in figure below illustrates the relationship between the internal pressure of the vacuum chamber and its ability to inhibit flashover. This relationship permits the vacuum to be checked indirectly by measuring the voltage threshold. One special advantage of this method is that you do not need to disassemble the circuit breaker in order to test it.

The voltage shall be selected so that test point A is sufficiently far from point B (when the chamber is filled with air). However, the electric stress in the chamber must not be too high. In normal situations, the pressure is less than 10-2 mbar, this is determined by the manufacturer. The breaker manufacturer should usually have specified AC test voltage. If not specified, AC test voltage levels are described in
standards.
The DC voltage applied for an equivalent test is equal in magnitude to the peak of the AC voltage required. The DC method is described in IEEE C37.20.3 standard. For guidance on test voltage refer to IEC 62271-1 and IEEE C37.06 standards