The safe operation of electrical rotating machines in the chemical, oil and gas industrial environments where hazardous gas may be present is of great concern. Risks associated with partial discharge (PD) and corona discharge at various locations in high voltage stator windings calls for a critical evaluation method for assessing the safety and reliability of electrical rotating machines.

To understand the behaviour of insulation systems in explosive environments, a steady state ignition test, also known as an “incendivity test”, needs to be performed on a wound stator in gas groups IIA, IIB and IIC as specified in the IEC standard.

The complete winding insulation system, including the connections and leads, must be tested in an explosive test mixture with a sinusoidal voltage of at least 1.5 times the rated RMS line voltage for at least three minutes. The maximum rate of voltage rise must be 0.5 kV/s. The voltage must be applied between one phase and earth, with the other phases earthed and is repeated for each phase. It is in this environmental scenario that no ignition of the test mixture shall occur.

Delba Electrical, a renowned and respected name in the electrical engineering sector, has recently demonstrated its expertise by successfully performing two incendivity tests on a 6.6 kV stator as well as on an 11 kV stator respectively, highlighting its commitment to quality and safety.

The incendivity test is designed to evaluate the electric motor’s ability to withstand high voltage conditions without igniting or sustaining combustion. This test is particularly crucial for motors used in hazardous environments or industrial applications where the risk of fire or thermal incidents are of concern. By subjecting the motor to elevated voltages and assessing its response, 

Delba can gauge its fire resistance properties and identify potential weaknesses in winding design or construction.

Delba Electrical’s recent achievements in successfully conducting incendivity tests underscores its proficiency in ensuring product safety and compliance with industry standards. These tests not only validate the quality of the Delba insultation system on certified electrical motors, but also instills confidence with customers regarding their performance under challenging circumstances.

Looking ahead, the role of incendivity testing is poised to become even more significant in the future of electrical motor certification. With advancements in technology leading to the development of more powerful and compact motors, the need for rigorous testing methodologies becomes paramount. Incendivity tests will continue to serve as a benchmark for evaluating motor safety, especially as industries push the boundaries of performance and efficiency.

Further, as environmental and safety regulations become more stringent, manufacturers and suppliers must demonstrate the reliability and resilience of their products. Incorporating incendivity testing into the certification process not only meets regulatory requirements but also ensures that electrical motors meet the highest standards of safety and durability.

The incendivity test on certified electrical motors is a vital component of ensuring safety, reliability and compliance with industry standards. Delba Electrical’s successful performance of incendivity tests reflects its dedication to quality assurance and its ability to deliver products that meet the demanding requirements of modern industries. As technology evolves, incendivity testing will continue to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of electrical motor certification and safety protocols.