MV DAC-30

The MV DAC-30 is a DAC (Damped AC Voltage) test set with a peak voltage of 30 kV. The test set can be used for quality control on newly installed cables, in accordance with the IEEE 400.4 standard. In addition, to prevent unplanned outages, the unit can also be used for condition-monitoring purposes on aged cable circuits.

Advanced Partial Discharge Detection

The main use of the DAC test set is to identify, evaluate and locate partial discharge (PD) faults in the insulation and accessories of all types of medium voltage power cables. PD activity is an indication of incipient insulation faults and is therefore widely regarded as one of the best ‘early warning’ indicators of deteriorating medium and high voltage insulation.

Accurate Data Evaluation

Since the DAC frequency of the test voltage is close to nominal AC service conditions, all measured PD activities can be accurately evaluated and compared with the power frequency. The PD inception voltage (PDIV) and PD extinction voltage (PDEV) can be easily determined due to the decaying amplitude of the test voltage.

Modular Portability for Efficient Field Use

We have engineered the system for logistical efficiency. It consists of two distinct parts: a control unit (which includes a laptop) and the HV unit. The HV unit further divides into two sections, making transport and setup much easier for field technicians.

Safety-First Design and Operation

Safety is paramount in the design of the MV DAC-30. Unlike many other PD measurement systems, the HV unit consists of a voltage source with an internal PD detector. This configuration ensures that the cable under test remains the only accessible live component during operation, significantly enhancing operator safety.

Intelligent software features

The operating software guides the user through the entire process. Key features are: 

• Integrated cable database
• Fully automatic calibration
• Live PD mapping: evaluation and display of results during the actual measurement
• Reporting by mouse click