KEMA Labs Boosts Testing at Chalfont Lab with Upgrades

In a recent ElectricEnergyOnline publication, KEMA Labs announced the completion of significant upgrades to their surge arrester test platform at their Chalfont, Pennsylvania (USA) laboratory. Finalized in fall 2022, these enhancements aim to boost testing accuracy and safety, aligning with the rigorous standards of IEEE C62.11, IEC 60099-4, and IEC 60099-8.

Key improvements include an upgraded main feed bus with adjustable height to accommodate surge arresters of various sizes, ensuring stability during high-current tests for precise results. KEMA Labs has also introduced a double 45° return connection on the return bus to eliminate lateral forces on the base pedestal, enhancing testing versatility and process smoothness.

Additionally, a transition to non-metallic enclosure materials focuses on maintaining arc concentration on the test object, and the implementation of a Cleaveland Price 2-way high-current switch allows for accurate pre-failure testing.

For a comprehensive overview of these advancements, read the full article here .