What Is Compatibility Testing?
Compatibility testing simulates real-world conditions by immersing test materials (rubber, polymer, adhesives, metals, etc.) in transformer oil under elevated temperature and time conditions. After aging, the physical, chemical, and dielectric properties of both the material and the oil are evaluated to ensure mutual stability.
Compatibility testing simulates real-world conditions by immersing test materials (rubber, polymer, adhesives, metals, etc.) in transformer oil under elevated temperature and time conditions. After aging, the physical, chemical, and dielectric properties of both the material and the oil are evaluated to ensure mutual stability.
🧪 Standards & Guidelines
- ASTM D3455 – Compatibility of Construction Material with Electrical Insulating Oil
- IEC 61125 – Oil oxidative stability with material exposure
- IS 12463 – Indian Standard for compatibility testing
- OEM-specific procedures (if applicable)
Test Standard
- Test materials are submerged in insulating oil (new or representative)
- The mixture is aged for 96–164 hours at 100°C–120°C
- Post-aging evaluations include
- Physical changes in the material (swelling, hardening, cracking)
• Chemical changes in oil (acidity, interfacial tension, color)
• Dielectric strength reduction (if any)
• Sediment or sludge formation
Key Gases Measured
Insulating Liquids – Measurement of Relative Permittivity, Dissipation Factor (Tan δ) and DC Resistivity.
Why Compatibility Testing Is Critical
- Prevents chemical deterioration of oil and insulation
- Verifies sealing material performance in hot oil environments
- Identifies material-induced sludge or acid formation
- Reduces long-term risk of oil leaks, electrical failures, and corrosion
- Supports design validation for new materials or OEM component changes
Common Materials Tested
- Rubber gaskets and O-rings (Nitrile, Neoprene, Viton, EPDM)
- Coatings and tank paint systems
- Cable insulation and sleeving
- Varnishes, adhesives, and sealants
- Pressboard, paper, and laminates
- Metallic components (Aluminum, Copper alloys)
Report Includes
- Pre- and post-aging material observations (appearance, weight, volume change)
- Measured oil properties before and after testing (acidity, color, sludge, IFT)
- Pass/Fail recommendation based on international standards
- Suitability grading for use in mineral, ester, or synthetic oils
- Expert interpretation and material recommendation (if applicable)
Why Choose Tru-FIL?
- Specialized transformer oil and material test lab
- NABL-grade testing facilities and protocols
- AI-enhanced ERP for material database tracking
- 24/7 testing turnaround and national sample collection
- Trusted by transformer OEMs, utilities, and component manufacturers