Abstract: A system (20) and method to locate an anomaly (22) of a conductor (24) is provided. The system (20) uses a test set (28) to inject a test signal (36) into the conductor (24) at a location (PT) and a probe (30) to detect the test signal (36) at a second location (PP). A communication link (42) between the probe (30) and the test set (28) has a predetermined propagation delay (DS), from which the system (20) can calculate a propagation delay (DTP) of the conductor (24) between the test set (28) and the probe (30), and a propagation delay (DPA) between the probe (30) and the anomaly (22). By varying the location (PP) of the probe (30) until the propagation delay (DPA) between the probe (30) and the anomaly (22) is substantially zero, the precise location (PA) of the anomaly (22) may be determined. The propagation velocity (VC) of the conductor (24) may also be determined.

Abstract: A system that finds breaches in solid insulation, as well as detecting insufficient air gaps between conductors. The invention solves problems in how to detect breaks in solid insulation by applying high voltages without damaging the solid insulation. The invention also overcomes limitations where the voltages required to detect an insufficient air-gap can cause damage to, or are difficult to apply to the electrical device under test. The system for testing conductors held physically separated or otherwise isolated from each other by an insulating material is composed of a high-voltage breakdown tester, a means of connecting the tester to the conductors, and an added gas that is used to displace air in the proximity of the conductors.

Abstract: A system that finds breaches in solid insulation, as well as detecting insufficient air gaps between conductors. The invention solves problems in how to detect breaks in solid insulation by applying high voltages without damaging the solid insulation. The invention also overcomes limitations where the voltages required to detect an insufficient air-gap can cause damage to, or are difficult to apply to the electrical device under test. The system for testing conductors held physically separated or otherwise isolated from each other by an insulating material is composed of a high-voltage breakdown tester, a means of connecting the tester to the conductors, and an added gas that is used to displace air in the proximity of the conductors.

Abstract: A system and method that detects and locates defects in solid insulation is disclosed. The system and method solves difficult detection and location problems, such as when the break is not close enough to another exposed conductor to fail a high-voltage breakdown test. The system tests insulated conductors using a high-voltage breakdown tester, a connection integrity tester capable of identifying unintended connections, a means of connecting the tester to the conductors, and an inflatable bladder that causes a conductive material attached to the two testers to conform to the shape of the conductor. The inflatable bladder may be used as part of a gas or liquid dispensing system for enhancing the effectiveness of the test.