I've been asked to test an industrial machinery control panel assembly to BS EN 61439-1. One of the tests is voltage withstand. The control panel will be at 'distribution level', category III so needs to pass at 4kV.

I have a Chroma HIPOT tester (designed for withstand testing) which is capable of delivering upto 5kV RMS with a short circuit current (cut-off) upto 20mA. The 61439 standard, however, asks for the test equipment to be capable of delivering a short circuit current of 100mA ('test leads shorted together'). From what I can tell, most widely available hipot testers also cut-off at 20mA, I did eventually find one tester capable of delivering 120mA but it is eye-wateringly expensive!

Question is, if my HIPOT equipment passes or fails a circuit under test at 20mA would you say this a more stringent test result than at 100mA so therefore meets/exceeds the standard? I'm possibly missing the point? I realise it's not as powerful as the 100mA equipment but in my mind if the test fails at 20mA then I'd be on the more cautious side  i.e. the insulation resistance is poorer, no?

I'd just add that I would buy a tester that goes to 100mA if they were readily available.