BSI BS EN IEC 60270:2025

IEC 60270:2025 is applicable to the charge-based measurement of partial discharges which occur in electrical apparatus, components or systems when tested with alternating voltages (AC) up to 500 Hz or with direct voltage (DC).

This document:

• defines the terms used;
• defines the quantities to be measured;
• describes the measurement frequencies as well as the test and measuring circuits which may be used;
• defines analogue and digital measuring methods required for common applications;
• specifies methods for calibration and requirements of instruments used for calibration;
• gives guidance on test procedures;
• gives some assistance concerning the discrimination of partial discharges from external interference.

The provisions of this document are used in the drafting of specifications relating to partial discharge measurements for specific power apparatus. It deals with electrical measurements of impulsive (short-duration) partial discharges, but reference is also made to non-electrical methods primarily used for partial discharge location (see Annex F).

Diagnosis of the behaviour of specific power apparatus can be aided by digital processing of partial discharge data (see Annex E) and also by non-electrical methods that are primarily used for partial discharge location (see Annex F).

This document is primarily concerned with electrical measurement of partial discharge in terms of apparent charge for specific power apparatus made during tests with alternating voltage, but specific problems which arise when tests are made with direct voltage are considered in Clause 11.

The terminology, definitions, basic test circuits and procedures often also apply to tests at other frequencies, but special test procedures and measuring system characteristics which are not considered in this document may be required. For measurements at higher frequency ranges, see IEC TS 62478.

Annex A provides normative requirements for performance tests on calibrators.

This fourth edition cancels and replaces the third edition published in 2000, and Amendment 1:2015. This edition constitutes a technical revision.

This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous edition:

• a) Title modified.
• b) Use with alternating voltages up to 500 Hz or with direct voltage.
• c) Clear focus on charge-based partial discharge measurements.
• d) Streamlined performance checks for partial discharge measurement system components.
• e) Improved normative Annex A for performance tests on calibrators.
• f) Revised and new informative Annexes.

In a future revision, this document will seek horizontal publication status in accordance with IEC Guide 108.