Insulating Platform Liners: Testing, Failures & Replacement
What ANSI A92.2-2021 says about insulating platform liners, how the 100 kV dielectric test works, why liners fail, and when to replace them.
What Is an Insulating Platform Liner?
According to ANSI A92.2-2021, “An insulating platform liner is an insert made of non-conductive (insulating) material and designed to fit inside the platform.”
Insulating platform liners are to be used with non-insulating platforms that are designed for use with an insulating liner. Platform liners used for insulation must pass a dielectric test annually to be considered insulating. Neither the platform nor liner are permitted to have drain holes or access openings.
How Insulating Platform Liners Are Tested
Insulating platform liners are tested on a pass/fail basis. 100 kV is applied to the interior of the liner for 3 minutes. If the electricity does not penetrate the liner after 3 minutes, it has passed and is considered insulating.
Why Insulating Platform Liners Fail a Dielectric Test
The most common reasons an insulating platform liner fails a dielectric test:
- Drain holes drilled through the bottom of the liner.
- Debris caught between the liner and platform punctures the liner or degrades the insulating material.
- Debris inside of the insulating liner punctures or wears the liner floor and/or walls.
Keeping the inside of the platform and liner clean greatly improves the longevity of the insulating platform liner.
Next Steps
If an insulating platform liner is suspected to be compromised, have a dielectric test completed to verify its condition.
Once an insulating platform liner has failed a dielectric test, it must be replaced. Insulating platform liners are not repairable.
Installing a new insulating platform liner is as easy as removing the old liner, cleaning and drying the interior of the platform and installing the new liner. New insulating platform liners are tested and certified as insulated by the manufacturer and do not require a retest until they have been in the field for 1 year.
Questions About Your Platform Liners?
Please contact USSI with any questions or for further information: