What does a lower insulation resistance value indicate?

A lower insulation resistance value indicates potential insulation failure. Insulation resistance is a measure of how effectively a material can resist the flow of electrical current; the higher the resistance, the better the insulation is at preventing leakage currents that could lead to faults or hazards.

When the insulation resistance is low, it suggests that the insulating material is compromised, which could be due to various factors such as moisture ingress, damage, or aging. This compromised insulation can lead to unwanted electrical leakage, short circuits, or even electrical shock hazards, thus posing a risk to both equipment and personnel. Therefore, identifying a lower insulation resistance is critical in preventive maintenance and safety assessments to ensure that electrical systems operate safely and efficiently.