IEEE 95-2000 gives the following guidelines for test voltages:
VLL(vac) Test Voltage (vdc)
==== =========
<1000 500
1000-2500 500-1000
2501-5000 1000-2500
5001-12000 2500-5000
>12000 5000-10000
5kvdc test of 13.2kv machine is consistent with these guidelines. We use 10kv test at our plant. I don't think using 5kv would be a big problem (there may be slight tip-up if contamination is present). Most important thing for trending is to use the same voltage each time.
=====================================
Eng-tips forums: The best place on the web for engineering discussions.
Suggestion: 5000VDC is sufficiently high to reveal insulation DC resistance. It is also sufficiently low for 13.8kV not to cause any damages to insulation. Contact the IEEE 95-2000 working group to find out all details behind the selected voltage.