Testing earthing equipment per IEC 61230

An earthing set that melts or breaks during an unexpected re-energization stops protecting at exactly the wrong moment. IEC 61230 describes the type tests and gives guidelines for periodic in-service checking.

1. Visual inspection

Check clamps for corrosion, deformation or hairline cracks. Inspect the conductor for broken strands, damage or oxidation at the connection points.

2. Resistance measurement

Measure the resistance from clamp to clamp through the conductor. IEC 61230 sets no fixed maximum resistance limit: compare the measured resistance with the reference value established at commissioning. An increase points to corrosion or a loose connection. Use a micro-ohmmeter for this: an ordinary multimeter lacks the resolution for a reliable measurement.

3. Certification

Measured resistances and inspection results in the test report per earthing set.

IEC 61230 prescribes no fixed testing interval; the user sets the interval. Use the manufacturer’s instructions as a guide for the testing interval, supplemented by a visual inspection before every use.

This article is part of a series on the periodic testing of high-voltage PPE:

• Testing insulating gloves: IEC 60903
• Testing hot sticks: IEC 60832-1 / 60855-1
• Testing voltage detectors: IEC 61243
• Testing phase comparators: IEC 61481-1
• Testing insulating mats: IEC 61111

Or read the complete overview with all standards and intervals.

IONIO Labs tests insulating gloves and capacitive voltage detectors, with a test report for every item. Earthing equipment is not yet part of our range. If you want it tested, get in touch. See all inspections and lab tests at IONIO Labs.

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