by admin|December 19, 2013 | Calculators

High Voltage Arc Gap Calculator

High Voltage Arc Gap Calculator

This arc voltage calculator can help you understand how a Dielectric Withstand Test helps your quality process. This calculator also shows how using a Helium atmosphere can help your test be more stringent.

WARNING: Do not use this calculator to determine safety clearance distances.

Calculate Arc Distance

 

Results

Equivalent AC DWV

___ Volts

Arc Distance in Air (min)

___ inches (___ mm)

Arc Distance in Air (max)

___ inches (___ mm)

Arc Distance in Helium

___ inches (___ mm)

Explanation

Your Dielectric Withstand Test uses ___ VDC (or ___ VAC).

If the test passes it will confirm that the smallest gap between exposed conductors in the cable is likely greater than ___ inches (___ mm).

If the test fails you may have a gap less than ___ inches (___ mm). If the DWV test is done in helium then the test might detect a gap as large as ___ inches (___ mm).

For more information on testing your products in a helium atmosphere see our Using Inert Gas to Enhance Electrical Wiring Inspection article.

Notes: The "Arc Distance in Air (min)" calculation is based on empirical data for a sharp point arcing to a plane. The "Arc Distance in Air (max)" calculation is based on empirical data for a plane arcing to a plane. The "Arc Distance in Helium" calculation is based on empirical data for a sharp point arcing to a plane in a helium atmosphere. Both calculations are for standard pressure (760 mmHg) and room temperature (72 °F, 22.2 °C).