scope:

This document describes a test method for evaluating the oxidation stability of insulating liquids in the delivered state under accelerated conditions regardless of whether or not antioxidant additives are present. The duration of the test can be different depending on the insulating liquid type and is defined in the corresponding standards (e.g. in IEC 60296, IEC 61099, IEC 62770). The method can be used for measuring the induction period, the test being continued until the volatile acidity significantly exceeds 0,10 mg KOH/g in the case of mineral oils. This value can be significantly higher in the case of ester liquids.

The insulating liquid sample is maintained at 120 °C in the presence of a solid copper catalyst whilst bubbling air at a constant flow. The degree of oxidation stability is estimated by measurement of volatile acidity, soluble acidity, sludge, dielectric dissipation factor, or from the time to develop a given amount of volatile acidity (induction period with air).

In informative Annex B, a test method for evaluating the oxidation stability of inhibited mineral insulating oils in the delivered state by measurement of the induction period with oxygen is described. The method is only intended for quality control purposes. The results do not necessarily provide information on the performance in service. The oil sample is maintained at 120 °C in the presence of a solid copper catalyst whilst bubbling through a constant flow of oxygen. The degree of oxidation stability is estimated by the time taken by the oil to develop a determined amount of volatile acidity (induction period with oxygen). Additional criteria such as soluble and volatile acidities, sludge and dielectric dissipation factor can also be determined after a specified duration.

In informative Annex C, a test method intended to simulate the thermo-oxidative behaviour of ester insulating liquids (headspace of air at 150 °C for 164 h) is described.

Additional test methods such as those described in IEC TR 62036 based on differential scanning calorimetry can also be used as screening tests, but are out of the scope of this document.