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4 Common Electrical Grounding Mistakes

4-common-electrical-grounding-mistakes

Upright grounding is more than a safety feature. In fact, it safeguards tools, equipment, and other devices that are supplied in the facility. Therefore, effective grounding procedures must take place in every part of a project and must never be overlooked. With the absence of proper grounding systems, you might be able to expose yourself to the risk of electric shock and instrument errors. However, at times, there are grounding errors that cannot be assisted. Here, we will be able to discuss the five common electrical grounding mistakes that some people make.

Why test ground systems?

Soils do not stay the same over time. Corrosive soils, high moisture content, salt, content, and elevated temperatures, can decrease the quality of your soil. In a natural setting, this might be okay for backyard gardens. However, if you are building extremely sensitive projects on top of it, you might want to double-check if the soil is compatible with the proper standards.

According to an official Fluke source, faulty ground systems will omit electrical problems that will result in unwanted downtimes. The root causes. Poor grounding and poor power quality.

The common electrical grounding mistakes…

There are different projects that require proper grounding. One can differ from the other, but one thing rings true, and that is never to forget proper grounding.

1 Do understand soil resistivity.

The number one of a grounding system is to provide a low impedance route to the earth. Going back, soil resistivity plays a significant role in the process since it is the main basis of any grounding system. It relates to a lot of functions including soil type, moisture content, and temperatures. These kinds of characteristics pave the way for ground impedances.

Take note that the current will likely follow through a path of low resistance rather than a high one. High soil resistance will result in unsafe paths that will eventually increase equipment failures and human injuries.

2 Failing to measure the grounding system.

One thing you need to check is the grounding systems if there are any vacancies. Make sure that there are none so to speak of. A variance may occur over time that was not intended for. As an example, if a ground rod hits a large rock and it does not reach the depth that it’s required to be at this may cause complications.

3 Always reattach ground paths.

In such instances that you must relocate, replace, or remove equipment for repairs, it is of utmost importance that you reconnect the entire path completely. Technically, all connection in the ground path includes setscrews, locknuts, and threads. You should fully evaluate the continuity before putting them back into the system.

Also, it is probably best for you to check for any corrosion, rust, and dirt since impurities can contaminate metal raceways.

4 Using ground wire incorrectly

Pay attention to the conductor’s bends and lengths! Ground wires that are bundled up together can create high impedance and this will give way to higher voltages on the equipment during transient events. Also, refrain from coiling the wires since this will prevent the current to go through a straight and simple path.

Standards for ground testing…

Not sure if you are meeting the standard for grounding? Here’s something to guide you along the way! These organizations provide recommendations and/or develop standards for grounding to ensure safety.

Remember, the goal of these grounding standards is to help you ensure the reliability of your equipment in such cases that faulty currents occur.

Purchase from an authentic source!

Hey, you made it to the bottom! Be sure to check out Fluke Earth Ground Testers through our official site! Are you currently looking for the best-performing test tools in the market to run daily maintenance checks on your machines? You are in luck cause Presidium PH is an authorized distributor of Fluke test tools in the Philippines.

If you want to know more about Fluke tools and their functions, visit our website for more info! This is a one-stop-shop for the best test tools within Metro Manila.

https://presidium.ph/shop/?wlfilter=1&product_cat=fluke-earth-ground-testers
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Can Too Much Heat Affect the Performance of Fluke Test Tools?

can-too-much-heat-affect-the-performance-of-fluke-test-tools

The simple answer to this is yes, it does. Fluke test tools no matter how high performing they are, are still susceptible to a decrease in performance if there is too much heat involved. But in all fairness, it’s not just for Fluke tools, heat is a long-time enemy of electronics in all forms and variations. Therefore, most gadgets are preferred to be stored in cooler places. However, this may pose are a difficult task for those who are residing in tropical countries, or in places that are constantly under immeasurable heat.

How can heat cause electronics to lessen in performance?

Precisely, electronics are at their best performance when they are used in lower temperatures compared to high ones. In such cases that you expose your tools regularly to high heat temperatures, expect that your tools may decrease in life and may no longer be as reliable as it once was.

Also, if your tool is always under heat, don’t be surprised if it suddenly begins to break down or malfunction. Remember, allowing devices to run for long periods of time at high temperatures will provoke your tools to be less functional.

How does a Fluke tool perform when under extreme heat?

We’ll give you an idea. According to MasterFlex, a civilian employee in Iraq, Robert Kirkman who is regularly using a digital multimeter under the harsh heat of the desert sun has experienced malfunctions with his DMM because of the heat. He says that the screen turns black regularly. He quoted “So far, the meters have recovered after several hours in air conditioning, but this causes a severe inconvenience when troubleshooting equipment. I am using the tools to work on power generation equipment, power distribution and environmental control systems.” Technically the systems that he’s trying to troubleshoot are HVAC systems to keep soldiers cool.

Although he was a bit beaten down with the device’s performance, he clarified that it’s not the Fluke test tool’s fault. He has been using the brand for nearly 30 years and is quite content with its performance. He clarified saying, “This environment is very extreme and most equipment we use was not designed for it.” Therefore, it’s not just zeroing out with one tool, heat has the tendency to really decrease the performance of every electronic, especially in extreme conditions.

Ideal operating temperatures.

Not too hot and not too cold is the most ideal room temperature for your tool to work with. This will be approximately 50 degrees F to 82 degrees. But let’s not put our focus too much on hot and cold temperatures. There are other factors that can also contribute to the performance of your Fluke test tool. 

Humidity also gets a hand in your tools’ performance. Excessive humidity or extreme dryness. This kind of environment can cause errant discharges and can trigger condensation and water which is not preferred for your tools.

Managing heat with electronics.

But worry not, there are a lot of ways how you can keep your test tools cool in the blazing summer heat. According to the Institute for Advanced Study, there are five easy ways for you to manage heat when your electronics are in use, especially those that are quick to overheat.

  1. Allowing airflow. Don’t keep your tools compressed with thick and heavy materials. Allow a 2–3-inch space around them to let air cool heater areas or spots. Gear free from obstructions that are not granting your device any airflow.
  1. When not in use, stay away from heat. Therefore, don’t just leave your tools lying around under the sun. Remember, no matter how reliable and rugged a Fluke tool can be, it will work well when it’s in a calm and cool environment rather than being left alone in heated places.
  1. Stacking is a no-no. Electronics can get hot on their own. To help manage the heat around your device, prevent them from making heat on their own. So, it’s better to lay them all separately.
  1. Keep it clean! Okay, this is more of maintenance advice rather than heat advice. But nevertheless, it does help it cool down. Just don’t wipe it with hot liquid of course!
  1. If your tool overheats, shut it down! Let it sit and cool down before using it again. And remember, allow a lot of airflows so that your tool doesn’t continuously overheat.

Get your test tools through an authentic source!

Rest assured that through proper measurement, you can achieve the best PV solutions for your establishment, homes, facilities, and businesses. So, if you’re currently looking for the best-performing test tools in the market to run daily maintenance checks on your machines, you’re in luck cause Presidium PH is an authorized distributor of Fluke test tools in the Philippines. Prevent these faults from penetrating your machine by using the best test tools there are!

If you want to know more about Fluke tools and their functions, visit our website for more info! This is a one-stop shop for the best test tools within Metro Manila.

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Safety Installation of Photovoltaic Systems Using Fluke Tools

safety-installation-of-photovoltaic-systems-using-fluke-tools

One of the most revolutionary inventions (and is continuously developing) is photovoltaic systems. What may seem like a feature in most flashlights can now be a part of our everyday lives! Photovoltaic systems are an applauded feature in most establishments because of their ability to produce natural energy from the sun. Not only that but it also holds other benefits as well. Therefore, a lot of people are preferring to install solar panels to power their establishments. With this said, let us talk about the safe installation of photovoltaic systems using Fluke tools.

Photovoltaic systems and Fluke tools…

Fluke was commended for its impeccable performance in the industrial field. No wonder why most maintenance and women favor these yellow holstered tools for their maintenance and test checks. This specifically includes the safe installation of photovoltaic systems. If you have not experienced installations of this innovative product yet, you will be surprised by how sensitive they are.

Naturally, the key role of Fluke tools in safely installing these systems in homes and different establishments. You see, what most people do not know is that PV systems run on batteries. It can significantly decrease electricity bills and make the most out of sustainable lights. Seriously, what more can a person ask? Therefore, Fluke tools make the most key role in maintaining these systems because of their specialty to detect underlying faults of electrical devices, panels, and the heat intake of your PV systems.

Potential photovoltaic problems

Primarily, you must consult a professional in such time you are decided to install PV systems in your place. Again, the installation process is most crucial and sensitive, so it is important for you to have trained hands to oversee everything. If you have hired untrained workers to do it on the other hand, then better be ready to face a couple of mishaps along the way.

PV systems are great investments especially when they are working properly. Therefore, the installation is a significant process when quality performance is on the line. Nevertheless, here are the possible faults that may occur during the installation and operations of PV systems according to an official Fluke source.

Potential problems that may occur:

  • Extensive shading of the PV array
  • Insecure structural attachment to rooftops and other structures
  • Inadequate weather sealing for roof and other penetrations
  • Unsafe wiring
  • Unsafe battery installation or improper battery maintenance or use
  • Insufficient conductor ampacity and/or insulation type
  • Using unlisted equipment
  • Wrongfully applying listed or unlisted equipment
  • Improper placement of overcurrent protection and disconnect devices
  • Improper system grounding
  • Poor labeling on major system components and disconnected devices
  • Inadequate documentation on system design and operating and maintenance requirements
  • Inadequate environmental protection for certain system components

Last min inspections.

So, you have installed everything, and all things are already in their place, right? Then it is high time for final inspections! This will also come in handy for maintenance purposes. Given the fact that PV systems are always in direct contact with violent UV rays of the sun, as well as its other components, having a quick maintenance check should be in the works to make sure that your PV systems stand the test of time.

Typical maintenance items that PV installations may require include:

  • Check the wiring connections and terminations if it is loose or is starting to corrode.
  • See if the wiring harnesses are neatly bundled and protected.
  • Make sure that your PVs are clean! This means they are free of damage and structural integrity.
  • Inspecting roof penetrations and weather sealing.
  • Maintaining batteries, which may include cleaning, adding electrolytes, charge equalization, and replacement if needed.

Make sure to use the right tools for the task!

Yes, we are talking about the indestructible Fluke test tools. They are undoubtedly the best tools for the task. Rugged, dependable, and most of all, ensures optimum safety for all users. So, if you want to make sure that you are getting the right results for your photovoltaic systems, better use a trusted tool to get the job done.

Ideally, you should be able to perform tests on your PV systems whether you are installing or maintaining them. The most preferred test tool for the job is a high-quality digital multimeter with an amp clamp. So, if you’re planning on running on solar panels permanently, consider having them on standby for daily maintenance checks.

Use it as soon as you receive the equipment and again after the installation. This will help you get a clear grasp of output voltage and current. Also, remember that the appropriate unit needs to be connected in series to provide the proper voltage. Make sure that the sections are connected in parallel to provide the proper current.

Get your test tools through an authentic source!

Rest assured that through proper measurement, you can achieve the best PV solutions for your establishment, homes, facilities, and businesses. So, if you’re currently looking for the best-performing test tools in the market to run daily maintenance checks on your machines, you’re in luck cause Presidium PH is an authorized distributor of Fluke test tools in the Philippines. Prevent these faults from penetrating your machine by using the best test tools there are!

If you want to know more about Fluke tools and their functions, visit our website for more info! This is a one-stop-shop for the best test tools within Metro Manila.

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Smart Ways to Save Energy and Prevent Downtime

smart-ways-to-save-energy-and-prevent-downtime

Fluke is a powerhouse tool that can see, hear, and detect all kinds of electricity-related health situations. And that is only one out of a hundred reasons why it is favored by maintenance men and women all over the world. But Fluke tools can only do so much when people get a bit dismissive about caring for their electronics and electricity in general. Therefore energy-saving has become a smart practice for most households, buildings, and facilities. Today, we’ll teach you how to save energy using the most profound test tools in the industry – Fluke test tools.

Moreover, considering downtimes, electricity usage, when abused, can cause downtime. Like all things electronic, they are also prone to wear and faults with excessive use. Therefore adopting healthy practices is always preferable when consuming energy on a daily basis.

Importance of saving energy.

So, when we’re talking about how to save energy, we are not just singling out completely avoiding its use, but rather, we want to introduce smart ways on how you can do it. Energy-saving is a strategy that can completely help the environment, but other than that, it also comes in handy in preventing downtime incidents, abusing your electronics, and inducing excessive use of them.

Take facilities for example. It’s a given fact that most facilities take up loads of energy. And what most people might think is a natural thing that they no longer need to save energy, is a huge misconception. Energy takes up money, and when the electric bills pile up, most managers tend to have a double-take. Remember, we are no longer living in the last decade, this is the 21st century, and prices are hiked up. A quick solution? Have your equipment and machines evaluated and measured. You will never know, one machine might already be causing havoc in a way that is affecting your electric bills, the surrounding environment, and the people working close to it.

To this day, electricity and its availability are almost infinite which is why monitoring, measuring, and testing take a huge significance in establishments. Therefore, we need to consume energy in the most conducive way. In all honesty, electricity and how it is important to our day-to-day tasks can make or break productivity. That’s why, with proper monitoring, we are also at the same time, caring for our businesses or our homes.

Why measurement is relevant to save energy…

In all fairness, measurement is crucial in every point of work to know where you needed to align, adjust, and most of all make strategic decisions to meet goals. This is like our current topic. To save energy, you need to know how much energy is being wasted, you need to gauge if the equipment and machines are the ones that are causing them, and you also need to know which ones need immediate solutions.

Above else, data and logging still reign supreme in businesses, in maintenance, and in a lot of aspects that entail work. You need to measure how much energy you are taking up and see if the numbers are still aligning. This will allow you to document energy waste and machine faults. This information plays a crucial part for future reference.

Ways to save energy…

One of the very known characteristics of Fluke tools is its ability to promote energy-saving, and electronic care, and to give solid solutions to maintenance problems concerning electric machines. The very first thing you want to know when you are saving energy is the health of your electric machines and the overall power that holds them.

And with the help of Fluke tools, this is now achievable in quick and efficient ways. You see, when your electronics are spilling out energy everywhere without you knowing, then your energy-saving methods might be all for naught. This is something you want to check up on daily, especially if you are consuming them every day. So, here are things to keep in mind, on ways to save energy.

1 Mind your bulbs! They can be beneficial to save energy

If you are working in a huge facility, using traditional incandescent lightbulbs can consume excessive amounts of electricity. Try using halogen incandescent bulbs and compact fluorescent lights. Also, take note that fluorescent lights can also have faults. Therefore, it is also preferred for you to use a Fluke Fluorescent Light Tester for easier detection of underlying faults.

2 Turning off lights or appliances to save energy

The simplest and easiest way to save energy is to unplug them when not in use. And we are not just saying to turn the switch off, we mean going the extra mile and unplugging them from sockets. Machines and electronics may seem hardcore materials, but they are also prone to overheating and faults due to excessive use.

3 Be mindful of “Phantom loads”

Not even kidding this is a totally a major source of energy waste. This pertains to electricity used by electronics when they are turned off or in standby mode. Consider the use of smart power strips to eliminate this electricity fault.

4 Check your HVAC systems! They can be a huge factor for you to save energy

This abbreviation stands for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning. These are three things that also accept much energy in an establishment. There is a number of Fluke tools that can ideally help you with this.

For moisture intrusion:

  • Fluke Ti480 PRO Thermal Camera
  • Fluke 971 Temperature Humidity Meter

For heat loss:

  • Fluke 561 HVAC Infrared and Contact Thermometer
  • Fluke Ti480 PRO Thermal Camera

For monitoring indoor air quality:

  • Fluke 985 Particle Counter
  • Fluke 922 Airflow Meter/Micromanometer

For verifying HVAC system performance:

  • Fluke Ti480 PRO Thermal Camera or Fluke 561 HVAC Infrared and Contact Thermometer

Get your test tools through an authentic source!

Rest assured that through proper measurement, you can achieve the best energy-saving solutions for your establishment, homes, facilities, and businesses. So if you’re currently looking for the best-performing test tools in the market to run daily maintenance checks on your machines, you’re in luck cause Presidium PH is an authorized distributor of Fluke test tools in the Philippines. Prevent these faults from penetrating your machine by using the best test tools there are!

If you want to know more about Fluke tools and their functions, visit our website for more info! This is a one-stop-shop for the best test tools within Metro Manila.

Read more