Recommended Battery Tests for Battery Backup Systems

Batteries are perhaps one of the things that most people take for granted. Batteries are easily disposable, and you can get them almost anywhere. But disposable as they may be, we should learn how to take care of them. Be wary of the battery and equipment checkup dates to extend the lifespan of our equipment.

A healthy battery should maintain a capacity above 90% of the manufacturer’s rating; if it falls below 80%, then most manufacturers would recommend a replacement. Conduct a series of regular testing to ensure that batteries are maintaining capacity. Here are some indicators to watch out to know if you’re batteries are up for replacement.

  • There is a drop in capacity of more than 10% compared to benchmark or previous measurement.
  • 20% or more increase in resistance compared to benchmark or previous measurement.
  • Sustained high temperature
  • Degradation in plate condition.

There is an institute called, The Institute of Electronic and Electrical Engineers (IEEE) wherein they’ve recommended a combination of tests to perform. If you want to know more about this, you may check it out here.

If you are looking for a tool that can help you test and measure your batteries, you may check out the Fluke 500 Series Battery Analyzer at www.presidium.ph. Presidium is the official distributor of Fluke products here in the Philippines. Contact us at +63 2 464 9339 or email us at info@presidium.ph!

Read more

Manual approach to pressure switch testing

Determining accurate calibration of pressure switches is an essential method to ensure quality and safe operation of the equipment. It is similar to pressure gauge calibration which measures voltage or continuity across a set of switch contacts through (Digital Multimeter) DMM or a calibrator. It is important to know that the purpose of calibration is to detect and correct errors in the set point and dead band of the pressure switch. It helps save time and processes as it reduces the amount of equipment needed for a calibration job. Having the right calibration tools can enable many technicians’ work to be automated.

To perform the test:

Setup

  1. Make sure to safely disconnect the device from the process it controls.
  2. Connect the calibrator or DMM to the common and NO (normally open) output terminals of the switch. This process should measure an “open circuit” for continuity. If, however, you are measuring V ac be sure the tool is properly rated towards the voltage that is being measured.
  3. Connect the pressure switch to a pressure source such as a hand pump that can be connected to a gauge.

Rising pressure

  1. Increase the source pressure to the set point of the switch until the switch changes state from open to close. Manually record the pressure value when the DMM indicates a “short circuit”. If you are using a calibrator, it should record the value for you.

Falling pressure

  1. Continue to increase the pressure until you reach the maximum rated pressure. Slowly reduce the pressure until the switch changes state again, and resets from closed to open, then record the pressure.

Calculation

  1. The set point pressure should be recorded when the pressure was rising. The dead band value is the difference between the rising set point pressure and the falling pressure reset point.

Every mechanical and electrical work that requires pressure devices should be carefully tested. It is significant in order to have a safe and high-quality work procedures. Having the right calibration tools will not just ensure the safety of those who will use the device but also ensure convenience and efficiency. If you are looking for a significant and reliable calibration tools, Presidium.ph Corporation is the one that you might want to consider. We are one of the country’s official distributor of Fluke Industrial Group and Fluke Calibration products. Fluke is the world leader in the manufacture and distribution of any electronic test tools. We can assure you that our line of measurement and calibration tools are safe and highly functional.

For more information, reach out to Presidium.PH! Visit our Facebook Account @presidium.ph , Contact us at +63 2 464 9339 or email us at info@presidium.ph!

Read more

Importance of regular infrared inspections

Having a regular infrared inspection in the workplace in terms of keeping the quality of the systems and retain its efficiency. Infrared cameras like the Fluke Ti450 and Fluke TiS65 are very ideal for evaluating apparent temperature differences between components or materials that might lead to a system problem.

Infrared cameras are ideal for finding apparent temperature differences between components or materials that can point to a potential problem. With advanced focus systems, IR-Fusion technology, color alarms, and user-defined spot markers can help you find problems fast. IR Cameras are applicable on troubleshooting various systems such as:

Electrical Systems

Through an infrared camera, you can capture thermal information without actual contact which makes it safer to inspect electrical system. From a safe distance you can actually check on the following potential system problems:

  • Unbalanced loads
  • Possible harmonics issues
  • Overloaded systems with excessive current
  • Loose or corroded connections that cause increased resistance in the circuit
  • Winding insulation failure in electric motors
  • Component failure
  • Wiring mistakes
  • Underspecified components

Electromechanical Systems

When it comes to inspecting motors, pumps, turbines, heat exchangers, gear boxes, and low-speed rotating equipment, the non-contact temperature capability of Fluke Infrared Cameras can detect:

  • Reduced airflow from dust or debris
  • Alignment issues
  • Motor winding insulation problems
  • Power quality problems
  • Bearing issues
  • Lubrication problems

Process Operations

Various processes that involve extreme temperatures and potentially hazardous conditions, like petroleum and chemical processing, can all benefit from the efficiency of infrared cameras. Using a Fluke infrared camera to inspect refractory structures, tanks, vessels, steam systems, and heaters and furnaces, can help you find:

  • Damaged refractory insulation
  • Worn or leaking pipes
  • Defective valves and steam traps
  • Abnormal heat flow and heat gradients
  • Levels of solids, liquids, or gases in vessels such as storage tanks and silos

Building Diagnostics

Infrared cameras are also being used to both residential and commercial building inspections in order to diagnose:

  • Improperly installed or missing insulation
  • Heat loss or gain
  • Air leakage and air bypasses
  • Improperly installed or damaged HVAC ductwork
  • Leaks in buried steam or water lines
  • Moisture intrusion in walls, ceilings and roofs causing damage to insulation and building materials

For the best infrared cameras and other testing tools, Presidium.PH is your reliable partner! We are an official distributor of Fluke Industrial and Calibration products. Contact us at +63 2 464 9339 or email us at info@presidium.ph!

Read more