I. Preparation Work
Instrument Inspection
Confirm that the appearance of the test instrument is intact, and there is no damage to the insulation layer of the power cord and test clamp wire.
Exit Operation
It is necessary to confirm that the lightning arrester has exited the operation state, disconnected from the high-voltage power grid, and taken grounding discharge measures. Testing operations on energized equipment are strictly prohibited.
Appearance Inspection
Check if the counter body is damp or cracked. For pointer-type counters, check if the pointer is stuck.
II. Wiring Steps
Grounding Wire Connection
Connect the grounding terminal of the test instrument through a dedicated grounding wire to a reliable grounding network or the grounding lead-down line at the lower end of the counter.
High Voltage Port Connection
Connect the high-voltage output port of the test instrument to the upper end of the lightning arrester counter, that is, the connection point of the lightning arrester base or the dedicated test terminal.
Wiring Precautions
The wiring must be firmly connected to prevent sparks from occurring during discharge due to loose connection.
III. Testing Process
Power On Self-Check
Turn on the power switch of the test instrument and check if the display on the screen is normal.
Parameter Setting
Rotate the current adjustment knob to set the impulse current value. Under normal circumstances, it is generally set to 50A – 80A, which can trigger the conventional counter and will not damage the components.
Start Testing
Press the charging or start button. After observing that the voltage and current rise to the set value, the instrument automatically triggers discharge; under normal conditions, the counter pointer should rotate one circle or the numerical window value should increase by 1.
Repeat Testing (Optional)
After the internal discharge of the instrument is completed, confirm it through the indicator light. Press the start button again to conduct 2 – 3 repeated tests to verify the reliability of the counter action.
Result Recording
Record the counter readings before and after the test. If the counter action is normal, it is judged as qualified.
IV. End Work
Shut Down and Discharge
Turn off the power of the test instrument.
Manual Discharge
Although the instrument has an automatic discharge function, to ensure safety, it is recommended to use a discharge rod to short-circuit discharge at the high-voltage output port.
Remove Wiring
Operate in the order of removing the high-voltage port first and then the grounding port.
Restore Site
Clean up the work site and restore the lightning arrester to the operating state. Close the relevant disconnect switches.
V. Execution Standards and Test Cycle
(1) Main Reference Standards
GB 11032-2020 “AC Non-Contact Metal Oxide Lightning Arrester”, clearly stipulates the technical requirements for lightning arresters and their associated discharge counters.
DL/T 596-2021 “Power Equipment Preventive Testing Procedures”, stipulates the inspection requirements for lightning arrester counters, serving as the domestic standard for power equipment testing.
DL/T 474.5-2018 “Field Insulation Test Implementation Guidelines – Lightning Arrester Testing”, standardizes the specific operation procedures for lightning arrester testing.
(2) Test Cycle
Running Lightning Arrester: Before the thunderstorm season each year, usually combined with the spring preventive test, at least one inspection is conducted.
Newly Installed Lightning Arrester: Conduct the inspection within 1 month after installation, record the initial base number.
Equipment after Maintenance: After counter maintenance or replacement, action tests must be conducted to verify the reliability of the counter action.
Post time: Feb-25-2026