This test evaluates the ability of a wire or cable to withstand extended exposure to hot water while connected to a relatively low voltage source.
A coiled test sample is secured into a saltwater bath maintained at 85 degrees Celsius; both exposed ends of the sample remain outside he water bath. One exposed end is connected to the positive terminal of a DC voltage source, whose negative terminal is connected to an electrode immersed in the bath.
After seven (7) days, the voltage source is disconnected, an insulation resistance measurement is made, and the insulation volume resistivity is calculated. The voltage source is reconnected to the test sample and the process is repeated for a total of five (5) cycles (35 days).
When the exposure cycling is complete, the sample is removed from the hot water bath, examined visually, and subject to a dielectric voltage test.
This test is primarily a qualification test for low voltage battery cable but may be applied to EWIS components exposed to similar environmental conditions.