Partial Discharge

Keep the Current where it's meant to be

Partial discharge is the result of an electrical breakdown under medium to high voltage stress within a deteriorating or improperly installed insulation system. The breakdown can occur across the surface or within solid insulation systems, gaseous air pockets surrounded by liquid, or around an electrode in gas (corona activity).

Insulate your business from risk

Partial discharge (PD) is an electrical spark that occurs across a portion of insulation between two conductors. It most commonly occurs in critical assets such as:

  • Cables and accessories
  • Instrument transformers, power transformers and bushings
  • Switchgears
  • Motors and generators
  • Capacitors

Common Causes of Partial Discharges:

  • Aging insulation materials.
  • Manufacturing defects.
  • Moisture contamination.
  • Thermal or mechanical stress.
  • Voltage surges or transient over voltages.

Benefits of PD Testing:

  • Early detection of insulation deterioration.
  • Minimizes the risk of catastrophic motor failures.
  • Helps prioritize maintenance activities based on the motor's condition.
  • Increases the lifespan of electric motors by addressing issues proactively.

Applications:

  • Used in high-voltage electric motors and generators.
  • Common in industries like power generation, manufacturing, oil and gas, and utilities.


Minimize the risk of equipment Failure

Continental’s team of highly skilled technicians begin by running a series of screening and diagnostic tests to determine the quality of the insulation, your equipment’s health and its overall performance. The data generated from these tests will help you to monitor and protect your equipment effectively by identifying the potential need for repairs or replacements over the years.

By regularly performing PD testing, operators can ensure reliable motor performance and avoid unexpected downtime, saving both time and costs.


Repair | Replace | Rewind

Continental does it all.

Setting the standard for electric motor service since 1986.

Have a question?

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