High Voltage Impulse Generator

UHV Impulse Voltage Generator, also known as a Lightning Impulse Voltage Tester, is designed to generate high-voltage pulse waveforms that simulate real-world surge conditions.

For manufacturers and testing laboratories involved with transformers, GIS, high-voltage switchgear, power cables, surge arresters, and other high-voltage equipment, impulse voltage testing is often a mandatory requirement under IEC and IEEE standards.

The purpose of the test is to verify whether the insulation system can withstand transient overvoltages, such as those caused by lightning strikes or switching operations. By identifying insulation weaknesses before equipment is put into service, manufacturers can reduce the risk of equipment failure, prevent costly outages, and help ensure the safety of both personnel and electrical systems.

Verify whether the insulation design is reliable

Even if electrical equipment can withstand long-term power-frequency voltages such as 10kV, 35kV, 110kV, 220kV, or even 500kV, that does not mean it can handle the short-duration surge caused by lightning impulses.

An Impulse Voltage Generator is used to reproduce these transient overvoltage conditions and check whether key insulation parts meet the design requirements, including main insulation, inter-turn insulation, inter-layer insulation, lead insulation, and bushing insulation.

Simulate real lightning conditions

Power systems are frequently exposed to lightning strikes during operation. These events generate standard 1.2/50 μs lightning impulse waves, where the voltage reaches its peak in 1.2 μs and drops to 50% in 50 μs.

Impulse Voltage Generators are designed specifically to produce this standard waveform, allowing real-world lightning conditions to be reproduced in a controlled test environment.

Detect hidden insulation defects

Many insulation problems cannot be detected during power-frequency withstand tests, such as small air gaps, sharp-point discharge points, insulation layer defects, or areas with concentrated electric fields.

Under lightning impulse conditions, these weak points may lead to flashover, breakdown, or a sharp increase in partial discharge activity. Impulse testing helps reveal these risks early, before the equipment is put into service.