Standard for Dielectric Strength Test

[Benjamin Weber]

Dear community,

IEC 60601-1 does not give very detailled information regarding the performance of dielectric strength testing. Does anybody know, if there is another standard for dielectric strength tests? I remember, that some time ago I have seen an extract from another standard that gave very detailled requirements on how to test the dielectric strength of cable insulation (put it onto a mandrel with specific dimensions, wind the cable around that mandrel a given number of windings...). But I cannot recall the standard number :-(

I have seen there is IEC 60060-1. But I am not sure if this gives me the information a am looking for. Does anybody have experience with IEC 60060-1?

Best regards,
Benjamin

 

[Pads38]

The test you refer to involving wires wrapped around a mandrel is referenced in Annex L of 60601 and comes from IEC 60851-5, winding wires, test methods.

Remember that the dielectric strength test only applies to solid insulation. Otherwise insulation is analysed using creepage and clearance distances, etc.

 

[Benjamin Weber]

Thank you very much, that was the reference I couldn't recall.

The dielectric strength test applies only to solid insulation, I know. But look at a calbe insulation of a patient lead. This should be considered solid insulation and the dielectric strength test should be performed (unless there is no other objective evidence available, UL....). It's not a winding wire, so IEC 60851-5 is not applicable. But I would like to have more reliabe information on how to perform dielectric strength testing on normal cable insulation.

 

[Pads38]

I think that you could still use the 60851 method even if it is not a winding wire. I have used it myself, the 'mandrel' was a bar from a weight lifting set and, I seem to recall, it also involved a cardboard box and a bag of washers to provide the requisite tension in the wire.

It may be that this method is best used for thin wire - like a winding wire. I have seen other methods. IIRC there is one in the active implants standard where the lead is submerged in 0.9% saline but I don't have details to hand.