AC withstand test
What is a AC withstand test?
The AC withstand test (high-voltage test with alternating current) is a key procedure in electrical safety testing. It is used to evaluate the insulation strength of electrical devices, assemblies, and components under AC voltage stress. During the test, a defined test voltage – typically in the kilovolt range – is applied to ensure that the insulation of the test object can withstand exposure to mains or high voltages without electrical breakdown.
Unlike the DC withstand test, the AC withstand test also takes into account capacitive effects and AC stress conditions, as they occur in real operating environments. For this reason, the AC withstand test is required by numerous international standards and regulations (e.g., IEC, EN, VDE, UL).
It is widely applied in power electronics, inverter and converter technology, medical technology, and photovoltaic systems. As an essential method in electronic measurement and test engineering, the AC withstand test makes a significant contribution to product safety and quality assurance.