Hipot Testing for Electric Motors: Ensuring Safety and Reliability

What Is a Hipot Test?

The Hipot (High Potential) test is used to check the quality of electrical insulation in a motor. During the test, a high voltage—much higher than normal operating voltage—is applied between:

• The motor windings and the motor frame (ground), or
• Between winding phases in three-phase motors.

The test then measures leakage current through the insulation. If the current is within safe limits, the insulation is good. If not, it indicates insulation weakness that could lead to electrical failure.

Why Hipot Testing Is Important

Over time, insulation materials inside a motor can deteriorate due to:

• Continuous heat and vibration
• Moisture or oil contamination
• Dust, dirt, or chemical exposure
• Long-term operation or aging

When insulation becomes weak, the motor is at risk of:

• Short circuit or ground fault
• Electric shock hazards
• Motor burnout or failure

Hipot testing helps detect these problems early before they cause serious damage or downtime.

How Performs the Test

• The motor is isolated and safely prepared for testing.
• Our technicians apply a controlled high voltage (AC or DC) between winding and frame.
• We monitor and record leakage current readings.
• Results are compared with international standards such as EASA AR100 and IEEE 43.

This ensures your motor’s insulation system is safe and compliant with industrial electrical safety requirements.

What the Test Can Detect

• Cracked or damaged insulation
• Moisture inside the winding
• Poor varnish impregnation after rewinding
• Dirt or carbon tracking
• Insulation breakdown due to heat or aging

When Hipot Testing Should Be Done

• After motor manufacturing or rewinding
• After overhaul or repair
• During routine preventive maintenance
• Before returning a stored or standby motor to service

Regular Hipot testing ensures your equipment runs safely and reduces the risk of unexpected shutdowns.

Why Choose KH Venture Electrical

KH Venture Electrical follows strict EASA and IEEE testing standards to deliver reliable results. By including Hipot testing in every inspection, we ensure:

• Verified insulation integrity
• Extended motor life and efficiency
• Full compliance with safety standards
• Reduced risk of electrical accidents