What does a Polarization Index result of 1 indicate?

A Polarization Index (PI) result serves as a measure of the insulation condition in electrical apparatus, particularly for motors and generators. A PI of 1 indicates a very poor insulation condition, which typically suggests high moisture content. When the insulation is saturated with moisture, it significantly affects the dielectric properties, leading to a low PI value.

In contrast, higher PI values generally indicate better insulation conditions. Therefore, a result of 1 is considered indicative of insulation problems, primarily due to moisture, which can lead to increased leakage currents and further degradation of the insulation material. Understanding this relationship helps in assessing the health of electrical insulation and anticipating maintenance needs to prevent failures in equipment.