Evaluating the Immunity of Power Electronics and Low-Voltage Equipment to Non-Repetitive Dampened Oscillatory Transient Disturbances Using the EN/IEC 61000-4-12 Ring Wave Immunity Test Generator

Abstract

In modern electrical and electronic systems, transient disturbances such as ring waves pose significant challenges to the reliability and performance of equipment. The EN/IEC 61000-4-12 standard provides a framework for testing the immunity of devices against such oscillatory transients. This paper delves into the methodology of simulating and measuring the resilience of power electronics and low-voltage apparatus when subjected to non-repetitive damped oscillatory transient disturbances in both public and private networks. Special emphasis is placed on the capabilities and applications of the LISUN RWG61000-12 Ring Wave Generator in conducting these assessments.​

1. Introduction

Transient disturbances, particularly ring waves, are prevalent in electrical networks due to events like switching operations, insulation failures, and lightning strikes. These disturbances can adversely affect the performance and longevity of electrical and electronic equipment. The EN/IEC 61000-4-12 standard outlines the procedures for testing equipment immunity to such transients, ensuring operational reliability in real-world scenarios.​

2. Understanding Ring Waves

A ring wave is an oscillatory transient characterized by a rapid rise time and a decaying sinusoidal waveform. Typically, it has a rise time of 0.5 µs and an oscillation frequency of 100 kHz. These transients are induced in low-voltage cables due to the switching of electrical networks, reactive loads, faults, insulation breakdowns, or lightning strikes. ​

3. EN/IEC 61000-4-12 Standard Overview

The EN/IEC 61000-4-12 standard specifies test levels and procedures to evaluate the immunity of electrical and electronic equipment to ring wave transients. The standard defines test voltage levels for both line-to-line and line-to-ground couplings, as illustrated in Table 1.​

Table 1: EN/IEC 61000-4-12 Test Voltage Levels

Level	Open Circuit Test Voltage (kV)	Line-to-Line
1	0.25	0.5
2	0.5	1
3	1	2
4	2	4
X	Special	Special

4. The Role of Ring Wave Generators

To assess equipment immunity as per EN/IEC 61000-4-12, specialized ring wave generators are employed. These devices produce the specified oscillatory transients, allowing for controlled and repeatable testing conditions.​

5. The LISUN RWG61000-12 Ring Wave Generator

The LISUN RWG61000-12 is a ring wave test generator designed in accordance with IEC 61000-4-12, EN 61000-4-12, ANSI-C62-41, and GB/T17626.12 standards. It is utilized to simulate electrical network disturbances, providing power to reactive loads and control line switches, and detecting ring waves in low-voltage cable terminal equipment caused by power circuit disconnections, faults, insulation breakdowns, or lightning strokes. The RWG61000-12 series features an LCD display available in both English and Chinese. ​

5.1 Key Specifications

The RWG61000-12 offers the following specifications:​

• Output Voltage: 0 to 4 kV​
• Voltage/Current Waveform:
• Open circuit voltage wave: rise time of 0.5 μs ±20%​
• Short circuit current wave: rise time ≤1 μs​
• Oscillation frequency: 100 kHz ±10%​
• Polarity: Positive, Negative, or Automatic switching​
• Phase Shift: Asynchronous, Synchronization 0°~360° or Specific Angle​
• Output Impedance: 12Ω, 30Ω​
• Coupling/Decoupling Network (CDN): Includes a 16A single-phase network​
• Working Power: AC220V (Option 110V) ±10%, 50/60Hz​
• Dimensions (DxWxH): 44x45x35 cm​
• Gross Weight: Approximately 28 kg​

6. Test Setup and Procedure

The typical test setup involves connecting the RWG61000-12 to the Equipment Under Test (EUT) via the appropriate coupling/decoupling network. The generator then introduces ring wave transients at specified voltage levels and polarities, while the EUT’s performance is monitored for any deviations or malfunctions.​

7. Applications in Power Electronics and Low-Voltage Equipment

By utilizing the RWG61000-12 Ring Wave Generator, manufacturers and testing laboratories can effectively assess the resilience of power electronic devices and low-voltage equipment against ring wave transients. This ensures that such equipment can withstand real-world electrical disturbances, thereby enhancing reliability and safety.​

8. Conclusion

The EN/IEC 61000-4-12 standard provides a critical framework for evaluating the immunity of electrical and electronic equipment to ring wave transients. The LISUN RWG61000-12 Ring Wave Generator serves as an essential tool in this testing process, offering precise and reliable simulation of oscillatory transients. By adhering to standardized testing procedures and employing advanced equipment like the RWG61000-12, the robustness and reliability of power electronics and low-voltage devices can be assured in the face of transient disturbances.

Tags：RWG61000-12