Regarding meter side during withstand voltage test

[Miyai]

Hello,

I'd like some advice on what to do when testing meter.

When performing a withstand voltage test or insulation resistance test after installing an ION9000, PM8000, or PM5000 on a panel, how do you handle voltage measurement circuit and control power supply circuit?

Also, how does the ION9000 handle ground wiring?
Do I need to disconnect ground wire from terminal?

Generally, if it is not possible to perform a withstand voltage test or the like, there will be a note in the manual.
However, I was unable to find any mention of this in the manual for the meter mentioned above.

Therefore, I would like some advice on wiring connections during testing.

Best regards,

Miyai

[Mehran_Mehrnia · Accepted solution]

Hi @Miyai 

All ION meters are subjected to hi-pot testing during the manufacturing process, ensuring their dielectric integrity before deployment. As a result, repeating such tests in the field is not only unnecessary but can be harmful.

After factory testing, additional surge protection circuitry, typically consisting of MOVs, fuses, etc., is integrated into the meter to shield it from transient over voltages caused by lightning or upstream electrical disturbances.

While this protection enhances the meter’s resilience to real-world surge events, it also makes the meter vulnerable to damage if subjected to dielectric withstand voltage tests without first disconnecting these circuits and components. Therefore, performing hi-pot tests in the field without isolating the surge protection circuitry can inadvertently trigger or destroy these components, leading to meter failure.

Best Regards,

-Mehran

L3 Expert Advanced metering

[Charles_Murison · Accepted solution]

Hello @Miyai ,

While the ION9000 and PM8000 meters do not mention Hi-pot specific, there is a comment under Safety precautions. "Do not exceed the maximum ratings of this device."  safety-precautions 

As Mehran has said the meter has protection devices that will save internal electronics however will cause the meter to no longer be operable.

Regards,

Charles

[Miyai]

Hello @Charles_Murison , @Mehran_Mehrnia 

Thank you for advice.
I will exclude the meter from the voltage withstand test.

Best regards,

Miyai