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Precision DC Parameter Testing for ZnO Surge Arresters: The ZX-MOA Analyzer

Time:2025-07-21 Number:1

Introduction
      Effective condition monitoring of Zinc Oxide (ZnO) Surge Arresters (MOAs) is critical for power system reliability. Degraded valve elements or internal contact issues can compromise protection, risking equipment failure. While AC parameters are common, DC reference voltage (U1mA) and leakage current at 0.75U1mA are highly sensitive indicators of early degradation and moisture ingress. The ZX-MOA DC Parameter Test Analyzer addresses the need for rapid, accurate, and portable field testing of these vital DC characteristics.

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The Challenge: Traditional DC Testing Methods
Historically, obtaining U1mA and 0.75U1mA leakage current involved cumbersome setups:

1.Complex Setup: Requiring separate high-voltage DC sources, precision microammeters, and voltmeters.

2.Manual Operation: Technicians manually adjusted the HV source to find the exact 1mA point (U1mA), then manually reduced voltage to 0.75U1mA and recorded leakage current. This was time-consuming and prone to error.

3.Bulk & Weight: Multiple instruments made field deployment difficult.

4.Slow Process: Testing a single MOA could take several minutes, hindering batch testing.

The Solution: ZX-MOA DC Parameter Test Analyzer
The ZX-MOA represents a significant technological leap, integrating all necessary functions into a single, portable unit specifically designed for efficient MOA DC testing:

Key Advantages & Comparative Benefits:

Feature

Traditional Methods

ZX-MOA Analyzer

Benefit

Measurement Process

Manual adjustment & calculation

Fully Automated (Single-button operation)

Eliminates operator error, ensures consistent procedure, saves significant time

Measurement Speed

Minutes per arrester

~15 Seconds per arrester

Enables practical batch testing of multiple arresters in substations or factories

System Complexity

Multiple instruments (HV source, meter, controls)

Single Integrated Unit

Simplified logistics, faster setup, reduced calibration needs

Closed-Loop Control

Manual adjustment based on meter readings

Precision Automated Feedback for U1mA & 0.75U1mA

Guarantees high accuracy (Voltage: 1%) by precisely hitting test points

Portability

Bulky equipment, requires significant space

Compact & Lightweight Design

Ideal for field use in substations or on production lines

Wiring

Complex HV & measurement connections

Simplified Wiring

Reduces setup time and connection errors

Technical Specifications:

1.Voltage Range: 0 - 30 kV DC

2.Current Range: 0 - 1000 µA

3.Voltage Accuracy: ±1%

4.Key Measurements: DC Reference Voltage (U1mA), Leakage Current at 0.75U1mA

5.Environmental Operating Range:

Temperature: 0°C to +40°C

Relative Humidity: ≤ 85% at 25°C

Altitude: < 1000 m

6.Power Supply: 220V AC ±10%, 50Hz ±1Hz

Core Functionality & Diagnostic Value:
The ZX-MOA precisely executes the critical DC test sequence:

1.Automated U1mA Detection: Rapidly applies increasing DC voltage and automatically stabilizes at the exact voltage where the MOA passes 1mA of current. This U1mA value is a fundamental indicator of the arrester's voltage protection level and any significant shift suggests aging or thermal damage.

2.Automated Leakage Current at 0.75U1mA: Instantly reduces the applied voltage to exactly 75% of the measured U1mA and accurately measures the resulting leakage current. This current is exceptionally sensitive to moisture ingress, contamination, and especially internal valve element contact degradation. An abnormally high 0.75U1mA leakage current is a clear red flag for potential failure.

Conclusion
The ZX-MOA DC Parameter Test Analyzer transforms the essential task of monitoring ZnO surge arrester health via DC parameters. By replacing complex, manual, and time-consuming methods with a fully automated, integrated, and portable solution, it delivers:

1.Unmatched Efficiency: 15-second tests enable practical large-scale screening.

2.Superior Accuracy: Closed-loop control ensures reliable, repeatable results critical for trend analysis.

3.Enhanced Field Usability: Compact design and simplified operation empower technicians.

4.Proactive Maintenance: Early detection of internal defects (contact issues, moisture) and degradation via U1mA shifts and elevated 0.75U1mA leakage currents.

For power utilities, testing services, and MOA manufacturers requiring fast, accurate, and reliable DC testing of ZnO arresters in the field or on the production line, the ZX-MOA Analyzer sets the standard for modern diagnostic capability. Its ability to pinpoint the sensitive indicators revealed by the 0.75U1mA leakage current makes it an indispensable tool for preventing unexpected arrester failures.

GDZX is a manufacturer of power detection equipment, offering a diverse range of products with comprehensive models and providing professional technical support. Contact us at +86-27-6552607 or +86-17396104357.Website: http://en.gdzxdl.com/