The purpose of BS 5591 is to determine whether or not ionisable soluble organic and/or inorganic materials are present in electrical insulating materials. Their presence is confirmed by the increase in volume conductivity of the liquid extract and the test is considered to have particular significance when applied to electrical insulating materials which are to be immersed in coolants or impregnates.
BS 5591 on impurities in electrical insulating materials is useful for:
Ionic impurities can alter the conductivity of electrical wires and sometimes obstruct the required outcome when the electrical cable is meant to be immersed in coolant or impregnates. BS 5591 provides best practice guidelines to test for ionic impurities. BS 5591 gives detailed information such as:
BS 5591 can help manufacturers of electrical appliances to test insulator material to be used for proper functioning of appliances and equipment, also to avoid damage due to change in current.
IEC 60589:1977