High-frequency and direct-current sparktesters
At the extrusion of cables their insulation is inspected by sparktesters (high-voltage sparktesters) and possible insulation faults are detected and documented at an early stage. For the testing, the dry cable runs through the sturdy electrode of the sparktester that is installed after the cooling section. Here the cable insulation is exposed to the selected test voltage and faults in the insulation are reliably detected. The quality management assures that only faultless cables are delivered.
SIKORA offers for these applications Direct Current (DC), High-Frequency (HF) and Alternating Current (AC) spark testers. The test voltage is continuously adjustable. The spark testers conform to approved test standards (AS, BS, CS, CENELEC, EN, UL, VDE) and safety regulations (as demanded by DIN/VDE 0800, IEC 479-1).
SPARK 2000 DC
The SPARK 2020 DC is a direct-current sparktester, designed for the testing of telephone wires, data cables and mini-coax cables with foam insulation, automotive cables and building wires with a diameter from 0.5 to 20 mm.
SPARK 6000 HF
The SPARK 6030 HF is a high-frequency high-voltage sparktester, developed for the detection of faults in the insulation of cables from 0.5 to 30 mm. The system reliably distinguishes between punctual faults (pin holes) and bare patches.
The sturdy electrode and the electronic box of the SPARK 6030 HF form one integral unit. Directly integrated in the device is a display, visualizing the selected test voltage, the capacitive load and number of high-voltage break downs. The display is combined with a control panel for entering the test voltage. For production lines without a line computer SIKORA recommends the use of the SPARK 6030 HF with the processor-controlled display/ control devices REMOTE 2000.
A unique feature of the SIKORA SPARK 6030 HF is the optional integrated 3-step self-test and calibration system. This includes:
Innovation: Integrated self-testing and calibration system
According to European standards, openly operated measuring and testing equipment has to be checked regularly. Accordingly, sparktesters are tested with regard to the highvoltage, short-circuit current and function (sensitivity). While in the past cable manufacturers had to use an external testing device, the SPARK 6030 HF optionally integrates a completely 3-step auto-testing and calibration system. This test is documented, saved in a log-file and can be recalled at any time.
1. Integrated high-voltage test
The sparktester tests the displayed high-voltage of the device for correctness. The high-voltage has to be within a tolerance of 5 %. At the same time the corona level is measured and displayed.
2. Integrated short-circuit current test
In addition to the high-voltage test, the sparktester automatically checks the maximum short-circuit current, which at a human body model should not exceed 10 mA when operating the device (according to EN61010-1:2010).
3. Integrated function (sensitivity) test
The sparktester automatically performs a function test (sensitivity test). Therefore, 20 artificial faults (breakdowns) are initiated that are detected and reported.
For applications that do not require the integrated display and self-test and calibration system, SIKORA offers the SPARK 2000 UL.
W-LAN interface
The SPARK 6030 HF has common interfaces and a W-LAN-interface as an option. Via W-LAN it can be directly connected to a smart phone or Laptop.
SIKORA App
SIKORA offers a free app for diagnosis and quality control at smart phones. The operator can easily log in via the W-LAN interface and immediately receive the number of breakdowns or the high-voltage. With the app, it is also possible to control the high-voltage and to start the self-test. By means of the integrated test function of the SPARK 6030 HF, a detailed test certificate in PDF format is provided within the SIKORA App. This certificate can be transmitted via E-mail to the quality control department.
Specifications
| Model | Product diameter | Test voltage |
| SPARK 2000 UL | 0,5-30 mm | 0,8-15 kV |
| SPARK 2000 DC | 0,5-20 mm | 0,8-7,5 kV |
| SPARK 6000 HF | 0,5-30 mm | 0,5-15 kV |
| Interfaces | ||
|
RS485, RS232, W-LAN (WiFi) (only at SPARK 6030 HF) (option), Profibus-DP (option), Electrically isolated contacts, Analog in and output test voltage | ||
| Power supply | ||
| 100 ... 240 V AC ± 10 %, 50/60 Hz | ||
Outstanding features