Optimum design of life tests for insulating materials, systems and components

Criteria are presented for the optimization of test sets aiming at the endurance characterization of insulating materials (but valid also for systems and components). A procedure is suggested which allows the life test to be performed economically for any selected error level, using the inverse-power model and the Weibull distribution function. The approach can be considered generally valid for different life models and applied stresses (single or multiple). A worked example is included, which permits an evaluation of the effectiveness of the proposed procedure.>