Performance

Analysis of the performance of a range of electromagnetic devices can be performed in the Centres laboratories.

A 3 phase transformer tester is available for the characterisation of production transformers or simulated cores with a rating up to 15kVA driven by either a constant voltage transformer or selected inverter drives through computer controlled variacs.

Ratio and phase errors in instrument class current and voltage transformers can be accurately measured with the instrument transformer test set which compares the device against a calibrated reference whilst under a simulated load.

A range of dynamometers are used for the assessment of the performance of rotating machines up to a maximum speed of 24000 rpm and maximum rating of 24kW. Variable loads may be applied using eddy current brakes or DC generators.

A wide range of electromagnetic emissions and immunity testing (including conducted, radiated, ESD, surges, interrupts, harmonics and flicker) can be performed with the EMC test suite which is housed within custom built shielded enclosures. Shielding efficiency of sheet materials under DC and low frequency magnetic fields can also be assessed.

Low levels of ambient magnetic field are attained using a 5 layer Mumetal enclosure. Various coil systems and highly sensitive field sensors may be used for the calibration of novel magnetic sensors.

Acoustic noise emanating from devices such as transformers, motors and actuators can be measured in the hemi-anechoic acoustic chamber using calibrated microphones.