IEC 60112 Method for Determining Proof of Solid Insulation Materials and Comparative Tracking Indices

The IEC 60112 standard published by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) defines a test method for determining the proof and comparative tracking indices of solid insulating materials on parts and material plates from equipment parts using alternating voltage. This test method also provides a procedure for detecting erosion if necessary.

With this test method, the composition of the material is evaluated as well as the surface of the material being evaluated. Both composition and surface condition directly affect the evaluation results and are taken into account when using the results in the material selection process. However, the test results are not directly suitable for the evaluation of safe leakage distances when designing electrical apparatus.

This test method is used as an acceptance criterion as well as a tool for quality control of materials and fabricated parts. The comparative tracking index is mainly used for the basic characterization of materials and comparison of their properties.

This standard complies with IEC 60664-1 Insulation coordination for equipment in low voltage systems - Part 1: Principles, requirements and tests.

This test distinguishes materials with relatively poor resistance to tracking from materials with moderate or good resistance to tracking for use in equipment used under humid conditions. There are more rigorous longer-term tests to evaluate the performance of materials for outdoor use, using higher voltages and larger test samples.

The main changes made in the last update of this standard are:

• A new pollutant, solution C, containing a surfactant compatible with the test method described in the IEC 60587 standard has been introduced. The description of solution B is included in Appendix B for retrospective reference.
• Taking into account the fact that some materials can withstand high test voltages but fail at lower test voltages, a screening test has been introduced.
• This standard has the status of basic safety publication according to IEC Guide 104.

Among the numerous test, measurement, analysis and evaluation studies it provides for businesses in various sectors, our organization also provides testing services for the proof of solid insulation materials and determining the comparative monitoring indices, within the scope of the IEC 60112 standard, with its trained and expert staff and advanced technological equipment.