IEEE 98-2016

IEEE 98-2016 is a technical standard for preparing test procedures used in the thermal evaluation of solid electrical insulating materials. It is aimed at defining a consistent approach to thermal testing so results can be compared with greater confidence across laboratories, products, and qualification programs. For power equipment, components, and engineered dielectric materials, this standard helps support more reliable assessment of insulation behavior under heat exposure and related operating conditions.

About IEEE 98-2016

This standard focuses on how test procedures should be prepared for thermal evaluation rather than on a single material type or product design. IEEE 98-2016 helps structure the way solid insulating materials are assessed when temperature is an important factor in performance and service life. In practice, it supports clearer documentation, more repeatable methods, and better alignment between testing objectives and the electrical insulation properties being measured. The result is a more dependable basis for technical review and comparison.

Where is IEEE 98-2016 used?

IEEE 98-2016 is commonly used in laboratories, product development teams, and qualification programs that evaluate insulating materials for electrical and energy-related applications. It is relevant wherever solid dielectric materials must be tested for thermal endurance or heat-related behavior, including insulation systems in components, circuits, and devices. The standard is also useful in procurement and engineering workflows where test method consistency matters for comparing material performance, supporting specification reviews, or documenting compliance-related testing.

Importance in practice

In practical terms, IEEE 98-2016 helps reduce uncertainty in thermal testing by guiding how procedures are prepared and applied. That consistency is important when results may influence material selection, design decisions, or acceptance criteria for insulation used in electrical equipment. By improving repeatability and clarity, the standard can support safer engineering decisions, better risk management, and more meaningful comparison between test outcomes. IEEE 98-2016 is especially valuable when thermal performance must be documented in a disciplined and defensible way.

• Preparation of thermal test procedures
• Solid electrical insulating materials
• Consistent evaluation methods
• Support for engineering and qualification testing
• Documentation for comparison and review