Fluke 1503 Insulation Resistance Meter

Disconnect any electronic devices like motor drives, PLC’s, transmitters, etc. before performing insulation testing. Electronics can be damaged by applying higher than normal voltage.

The effect of temperature should be considered - it is recommended that tests be performed at a standard conductor temperature of 20 °C (68 °F) or that a temperature baseline is established while compensating future readings by using a DMM with a probe or an infrared thermometer.

Select a test voltage appropriate for the insulation being tested. The objective is to stress the insulation but not to over-stress it. When in doubt, use a lower test voltage. It’s usually appropriate to test insulation at twice the voltage it normally sees: for example 460 V to 600 V rated equipment is often tested at 1000 V.

When using an insulation tester, leave the leads connected when you stop the test. The insulation tester can discharge any residual test voltage.

Conductors that are close to each other have a normal capacitance. This will cause an insulation resistance reading to start low and increase steadily until it stabilizes. This type of increase is normal, but if the reading jumps violently down and up again this indicates arcing.

Although the current is tightly limited, an insulation tester can generate sparks and minor but painful burns. The unexpected surprise can cause an operator to jerk away. As always, work away from live systems and use safe work practices when working overhead.