High Current Technologies Lab

Powertech’s High Current Laboratory offers independent, third-party evaluation of the thermal performance and fault withstand of electrical equipment.

Areas of Focus

        The lab performs long-term aging tests to simulate lifetime performance. Assessments are made through heat run, current cycle, and short-circuit testing at high-current levels and low voltages.

        Equipment tested includes all types of current-carrying components in electric distribution and industrial power equipment. The laboratory specializes in evaluation and failure analysis of high-current components including connectors and fuses, utilization testing of energy meters and storage batteries, and machine insulation testing of stator bars and coils.

        In conjunction with Powertech’s High Voltage Laboratory and High Power Laboratory, and with on-site access to mechanical, chemical, and materials testing labs, the High Current Lab offers complete test packages according to CSA, IEEE, ANSI, and other standards as well as non-standard tests.

        Capabilities
        • 60 Hz continuous, 1 phase – 10 kA
        • 60 Hz continuous, 3phase – 5 kA
        • 60 Hz short-circuit, 1 phase – 20 kA
        • 60 Hz short-circuit, 3 phase – 10 kA
        • DC continuous – 10 kA
        • DC short-circuit – 20 kA
        Services
        • Temperature rise testing
        • Thermal cycle testing
        • Short-circuit testing
        • Time-current testing
        • Mechanical duty testing
        • Battery testing & system analysis
        • Instrument transformer testing
        • Long-term aging test
        • CT testing service
        • Failure analysis and consultation
        • Thermography scans & analysis
        • SF6 detection with optical gas imaging
        • Grounding measurement
        • Evaluation and failure analysis of high-current component
        • Utilization testing of energy meters and storage batteries
        • Machine insulation testing of stator bars and coils
        • Station Components 
          • Measurement equipment (CT/VT)
          • Switchgear (circuit breakers and metal clad)
          • Connectors
          • Terminations
          • Cable connections/cable splicing
          • Batteries, chargers
          • Disconnect switches

        Technical Papers

        Frank, R. & Morton, C. (2006). Comparative corrosion and current burst testing of copper and aluminum electrical power connectors. IEEE Publication.

        Brochures

        Team

        • LOGAN CONNAUGHTON – P.Eng.
          Manager, T&D Electrical Services
          T&D Technology & Testing
          604.590.7465 Email→

        High Current Lab Team→

        Powertech Labs Inc.

        12388 88th Avenue,
        Surrey, BC, V3W 7R7,
        CANADA

        604.590.7500

        We acknowledge that Powertech Labs Inc. is located on the traditional unceded territory of the Kwantlen, Musqueam, Katzie, Semiahmoo, Tsawwassen, Qayqayt, and Kwikwetlem First Nations. We make this acknowledgement to remind ourselves about the significance of the enduring relationship that exists between these peoples, nations, and this land. We recognize that advancing reconciliation is a process rather than an end result, and we will continue to put efforts forward to build long-term and meaningful relationships with these communities.