test method

The leakage current test can be run on devices of both Protection Class I and Protection Class II. It is verified whether the leakage current through the insulation is below a limit value specified in the standards. The test is run on components, machines, devices, and systems according to a variety of national and international standards.

To determine the leakage current, the device under test is typically operated at nominal voltage +10%.

The test device selects the standard-compliant measuring circuit according to the required test standard.

For Protection Class I devices, the earth leakage current can be measured in the protective earth conductor.

For Protection Class I and II devices, the enclosure leakage current on accessible parts can be determined by means of a test probe.

For electromedical products, all necessary tests according to standard EN60601 and other international standards can be performed.

The figure shows the typical application situation of a device under test connected to the mains. The main part of the current flows through the load (Il), and the leakage current (Iabl) flows through various insulation resistances to the enclosure of the device under test. From there, the leakage current is discharged to earth.

In case of a fault, the discharge path is high-impedance or even interrupted. In this case, dangerous touch currents occur.

During a leakage current test, it is important to determine currents from both conductor L and conductor N, as they can differ in magnitude. SCHLEICH testers typically perform this check automatically. The currents can be evaluated individually or together.

Furthermore, it should be noted that leakage currents can change over time. This applies particularly to heat-generating products.

What products does SCHLEICH supply?

• Individual test devices
• Combination test devices (combination with further safety or function tests)
• Measuring circuits for different standards
• Peak value detector up to 1 MHz
• Medical leakage current test
• Manual test using a test probe
• Fully automated test sequences
• Various test probes
• Test devices of various device classes

Standards committees

For legal reasons, we cannot make a binding statement regarding the test conditions in many cases. The currently valid standards for your product under test are decisive for the application.

The standard may differ depending on the geographical location of product use. Further information can also be found, among others, at the institutes listed below.