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Clinton HF-15B High-Frequency Spark Tester

Clinton Spark Tester product image
Clinton HF-15B High-Frequency Spark Tester - Image 2
Clinton HF-15B High-Frequency Spark Tester - Image 3
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Clinton HF-15B High-Frequency Spark Tester - Image 5
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Precision, performance and confidence in wire insulation testing

The Clinton HF-15B High-Frequency Sine Wave Spark Tester, distributed exclusively in the UK and Ireland by Control Metrix, is designed for smaller wires at high line speeds or where a direct ground to the centre conductor is not possible or practical. Non-destructive, high-accuracy testing of wire and cable insulation. The DSP based fault detection is able to differentiate between four types of faults, pinhole, direct metal contact, multi-pinhole and gross bare wire. Essential spark testing equipment for use in modern cable manufacturing processes.

Built on Clinton’s proven B-Series platform, the HF-15B combines intuitive operation with exceptional flexibility and modern communication capabilities helping engineers and operators maintain the highest levels of product quality and process control.

Other spark testers are available in the range – see table below in the ‘Models’ tab for more information.

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Accessories
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Key features

  • High-Frequency Testing – Delivers stable, precise spark discharge at 15 kHz for reliable insulation fault detection.
  • Detachable RC Display – A bright, detachable display can be mounted remotely (up to 200 feet/60 m), simplifying line configuration.
  • Advanced Fault Typing – Utilises DSP-based analysis to distinguish between pinholes, direct metal contact, multi-pinhole, and gross bare wire conditions.
  • Flexible Communication Options – Standard Modbus RTU over RS-485 connectivity, with optional Ethernet/IP, Profibus, PROFINET, DeviceNET, or Modbus TCP for easy PLC integration.
  • Voltage Watchdog – Monitors test voltage parameters and alarms if voltages drift outside specified limits, ensuring consistent testing performance.
  • Automatic Calibration – Compatible with Clinton’s STCAL system, providing quick, accurate calibration with digital record-keeping for traceability.
  • Robust Electrode Design – Split-bead chain electrode enables easy cable threading and precise centring for dependable results.

Typical Applications

The HF-15B spark tester is used across a range of wire and cable production environments, including:

  • Continuous insulation integrity testing during wire extrusion or re-spooling processes
  • Flexible communication option easy to retrofit to existing lines
  • Compliance testing to ASTM, IEC, and UL standards
  • Integration into automated production lines for continuous monitoring

Its non-contact high-frequency testing principle allows rapid detection of insulation defects without damaging the product – making it ideal for modern, high-throughput wire manufacturing.

Optional Accessories

  • X3B Horn/Light Tower – Provides visual and audible indication of spark faults
  • Extended Communication Boards – For integration with industrial protocols including Ethernet/IP, Profibus, and Profinet
  • Calibration Kit (STCAL) – Tablet-based system for simplified calibration, certification, and data logging

Technical Specification

Voltage Range Adjustable up to 15 kV
Frequency 15 kHz high-frequency operation
Input Power 100–240 V AC (universal supply)
Communication RS-485 Modbus RTU (standard)
Relay Outputs Four configurable outputs for alarms or system control
Calibration Compatible with Clinton STCAL automatic calibration system
Compliance Meets ASTM D149, IEC 62230, and UL 1581 standards

Other Spark Tester Models

Model Type Voltage Test Range Test Frequency Application
HF-15B High-frequency sine wave spark tester 500-15kV RMS 1.0-3.5kHz Smaller cable and high-speed lines
AC-30B Main frequency AC spark tester 1kV-30kV 50-60Hz Larger wires & multi-conductor cables
DC-50B Main frequency DC spark tester 1kV-50kV DC – Larger wires & multi-conductor cables
DC-1B
DC-10B
DC-20B		 Digital CD spark tester 50-1kV DC
500-10kV DC
500-20kV DC		 –
–
–		 Very high-speed application, multiple conductors, heavy loads or foam type insulation
IT-30B Impulse spark tester 3kV-30kV negative peak – Alternative to wet dielectric test. For wire specification that have not adopted HF spark test such as MIL-C-13777E, MIL-W-16878D, and some NEMA specifications.
STM-10GF
STM-20GF		 Multi-electrode
DC spark tester		 1kV-10kV DC
1kV-20kV DC		 –
–		 Multi-electrode DC spark tester for multiple conductors, can connect up to 7 test modules
FL-20A
FL-8A		 Cable Fault Locators 0-20kV DC
0-8kV DC		 –
–		 Device to locate a short or open in a finished multi-conductor cable.
TSTB Wireless Spark Tester 0-10 kV DC – Spark tester integrated into a twinner/double turn buncher meant to detect faults prior to takeup located within the rotating bows.
HV-35 Handheld Spark Test Probe 2-35kV
Negative Peak		 60 Impulses Per Second Handheld device to pinpoint the exact defect location during rewind.
Various Accessories Download pdf for electrodes & accessories

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