The certification for the high-voltage equipment testing laboratory with research and development functions is claimed to be the first in Italy to obtain such an accreditation from Accredia.
The laboratory will supply independent testing services for products that lead to improving HVDC transmission lines, with an internationally valid certification.
The test chamber, which has been a part of the Noventa di Piave plant since 1973, conducts electrical, heating and mechanical tests of energy transmission and distribution equipment, as well as components used in some of the ‘Supergrids’ across the globe.
At the new laboratory, several tests can be carried out including industrial frequency voltage tests up to 640kV root mean square (rms), atmospheric impulse tests up to 1.8 MV, manoeuvre impulse tests up to 1.2MV, and radio interference voltage (RIV) tests up to 640kV rms.
In addition, the laboratory will also carry out mechanical endurance tests of line and earthing disconnectors. It will also conduct high-voltage component heating tests and tests related to high-voltage insulators and clamps in the future.
The Noventa di Piave plant has produced more than 160,000 disconnectors that were installed in over 130 countries.
Laboratory in charge Eros Stella said, "This recognition confirms the technological vocation of the Noventa di Piave site.
"Since 1985, it has been granted 20 patents, and it has contributed to the development and growth of ten other Alstom Grid sites dedicated to the production of high-voltage disconnectors throughout the world."
