3.
After the initial stand time is complete the high voltage is switched on and applied to the
oilsample. The display appears similar to figure 9.
The high voltage indicator light is illuminated, and the display shows the voltage rising at the rate
of 0,5 kV/s being applied. This voltage rise continues until breakdown occurs (or up to
maximum). The number of the test in the sequence is displayed together with the words 'IN
PROGRESS'.
4.
When breakdown occurs (or if the maximum voltage is reached) the test voltage is cut off, the
high voltage indicator light goes out and the display indicates that the 1 minute intermediate
stirring period is being undertaken. Stirring time remaining is shown in seconds, alternating with
the word 'STIRRING'. The previous breakdown voltage is retained on the display, which appears
similar to figure 10.
5.
When the intermediate stir time has finished the test voltage begins to rise again as in step (3),
this time for TEST 2, and the cycle of events repeats.
6.
For this specification there are 5 consecutive tests. After the test voltage has been cut off on the
last test, the display shows the average breakdown voltage value from the 5 tests in the
sequence. The display appears similar to figure 12.
The three control keys now assume different functions. Press the left hand key labelled VIEW to
sequentially display the breakdown voltage value of each individual test, followed by their
standard deviation value.
If the automatic print option is pre-selected, the results will be printed automatically at the
conclusion of a test sequence. If not, press the centre key, labelled PRINT to obtain a print-out of
the results. When the printer is in operation, the display shows 'PRINTING PLEASE WAIT'.
Press the NEW key to return to the start of the ASTM D1816 test, followed by the left hand
START key to repeat a test sequence or the MENU key to return to the main menu.
Note:- At any time during a test sequence, pressing the right hand key labelled STOP will end a test
and return to the test option display. Similarly during printing the left hand key labelled STOP
can be used to stop the print function and return to the average breakdown display.
Figure 13. Oil test vessel for ASTM D1816 specification.
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