Comparative Tracking Index Test Apparatus
High Precision Tracking Resistance Testing System
Sensotech Instruments Inc. offers a highly reliable and precision-engineered Comparative Tracking Index (CTI) Test Apparatus designed for evaluating the tracking resistance properties of insulating materials used in electrical and electronic products. The equipment is specially manufactured in accordance with major international testing standards including IEC 60112, ASTM D3638, UL 746A, and IS 2824, ensuring accurate, safe, and standardized testing performance. The operating principle of the CTI apparatus involves placing two platinum electrodes on the surface of the test specimen at a specified angle and force. A controlled AC voltage, typically ranging from 100V to 600V AC, is applied between the electrodes, while a standard contaminating solution such as 0.1% ammonium chloride solution is automatically dropped onto the sample surface at regular intervals. The system determines the Comparative Tracking Index (CTI) value, which represents the maximum voltage a material can withstand for 50 consecutive drops without tracking failure or electrical breakdown. The apparatus features an advanced automatic droplet delivery system, generally using a peristaltic or positive displacement pump, capable of delivering precise 20 mm³ droplets from a controlled height of approximately 30–40 mm. Each platinum electrode applies a standardized force of 1.0 Newton (±0.05N) at a 30° angle to ensure repeatable and accurate testing conditions. For operator safety and reliable operation, the equipment is equipped with a strong stainless steel or mild steel test chamber, integrated exhaust fan system for removal of toxic fumes, and safety interlock switches on access doors to prevent electrical hazards. Modern versions of the machine are provided with PLC-based control systems and HMI touch screen interfaces for automated testing sequences, parameter setup, digital monitoring, and data recording. The apparatus is widely used in electrical industries, insulation material testing laboratories, R&D centers, cable industries, switchgear manufacturing units, and quality assurance departments for evaluating insulation material performance and electrical safety standards.
Technical Features
- Designed according to IEC 60112, ASTM D3638, UL 746A, and IS 2824 standards.
- Standard voltage range from 100V to 600V AC, with optional higher voltage models up to 1200V.
- Automatic droplet delivery system provides precise 20 mm³ contaminating solution drops.
- Controlled droplet height maintained between 30 mm and 40 mm.
- Platinum electrodes positioned at standardized 30° angle.
- Electrode force maintained at 1.0 Newton (±0.05N) for accurate testing.
- PLC-based control system with HMI touch screen for easy operation.
- Automated test sequence and digital data monitoring system.
Operating Principle
- Two platinum electrodes are placed on the sample surface to perform tracking resistance testing.
- A specified AC voltage is applied between the electrodes.
- Standard contaminating solution such as 0.1% ammonium chloride is dropped automatically every 30 seconds.
- The CTI value is determined based on the maximum voltage the material withstands for 50 drops without tracking or electrical breakdown.
- Suitable for evaluating insulation materials used in electrical and electronic products.
Safety & Applications
- Equipped with stainless steel or mild steel safety test chambers.
- Integrated exhaust fan system removes smoke and toxic fumes during testing.
- Safety interlock switches prevent electrical hazards when chamber doors are opened.
- Widely used in cable industries, insulation material testing laboratories, electrical manufacturing units, and R&D centers.
- Ideal for quality control and certification testing of insulating materials.
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