Keeping Lightning Protection System With Fluke Tools

Lightning is the result when there is too much interaction between the positive and negative charges in the clouds. The air acts as the insulator between the charges and the cloud and the ground. When there is too much build-up, the air brakes, and the electrical discharge we know as lightning is produced. As lightning carries a significant amount of electrical charge, it is very dangerous. In the USA, it is the leading weather-related cause of death. That’s why lightning protection systems are a necessity, especially during the rainy season.

What is Lightning Protection System?

A Lightning Protection System is used to minimize the effect of lightning on a structure when it strikes. They protect the electrical components inside the building and prevent fire and electrocution. Usually, there is a metal rod mounted on top of buildings that receives the lightning as it strikes the tower. The metal rod should be connected to the ground via paths that receive the lightning.

Metal rods are usually made of copper and aluminum and other conductive materials. Because of the high current levels, no one can guarantee safety from lightning strikes. Even side flashes can cause damage. But when you have a lightning protection system, the current is being distributed into every conductive path there is to spare the structure.

Benefits of maintaining the Lightning Protection System

Reduce the risk of fire and explosions.

As they say, when there’s smoke there’s fire. When it comes to lightning, the same also applies. Lightning carries a huge amount of electricity that when not properly taken care of, might result in a fire. The metal in electrical systems and plumbing systems in a structure may become very hot and the nearby combustible materials will start to catch fire. In 2021, there was a case of fire in Cebu caused by lightning that struck a transformer. A house was burned down because of this.

There are homes that are made of highly combustible materials. Homes that use corrugated stainless-steel tubing are prone to explosions. Corrugated stainless steel tubing (CSST) is commonly used because of its flexibility but it is highly combustible.

Protect electronics from surges.

Because the lightning protection system distributes the current to different conductive paths, it saves the electrical and plumbing lines of a structure from damage. It protects the electrical wiring, circuit breakers, and any electric appliances plugged in or not.

Increase property value.

Since the lightning protection system is considered a home improvement, the residential value increases. The residential value is determined by the condition of the house, neighborhood, and other home improvements. The increase may not break even with the cost of installing an improvement but at least it subsidizes the cost of the installment.

Reduce homeowners’ insurance premiums.

There are some home insurance companies that offer reductions in home insurance premiums when you have a lightning protection system installed.

How to maintain a lightning protection system with Fluke Tools?

Maintaining the lightning protection system with the ever-dependable Fluke Tool will lessen your worry about lightning-related incidents completely. Preparation will always reduce the impact of the incident. Here are ways how to maintain your lightning protection system with Fluke Tools.

Assess the existing grounding system, and measure soil resistivity.

Measuring the soil resistivity will help you determine which electrode to use and the depth it should be able to reach to get a lower ground resistance value.

Best Fluke Tool for assessment: Fluke 1625-2 GEO Earth Ground Tester

This Fluke ground tester measures earth ground loop resistances using clamps. With this Fluke tool, the danger and time-consuming job of disconnecting parallel grounds will not be a worry anymore. It allows you to run tests in places where soil may not be easily available (inside buildings and power pylons). It gives you a more accurate reading because of its Automatic Frequency Control. Fluke Ground Tester can store up to 1500 records and have them read via the USB port.

Fluke 1625-2 GEO Earth Ground Tester. Photo from Fluke.com

Measure ground impedance and continuity and take other preventive maintenance steps.

Measuring ground impedance after the soil resistivity will help you determine the soil’s ability to distribute the amount of energy it will receive when lightning strikes. With the help also of the Fluke 1625-2 GEO Earth Ground tester, you can also determine the equipotentiality of grounding system components like DC and AC resistance.

Troubleshoot problems.

Identify loose connections and overheating conductors. Also, measure insulation resistance to identify insulation breakdown.

Best Fluke Tools for troubleshooting: Fluke Infrared Cameras

Packed with wireless connectivity and temperature range, Fluke Infrared Cameras deliver the needs that most electrical professionals need. They also come with Fluke Smartview software. Identify the problems right away with accuracy through the graph view and safely with their wireless features. Check out the infrared cameras that Fluke has!

Fluke 1577 Insulation Multimeter

This insulation multimeter measures ac/dc voltage, dc millivolts, ac/dc milliamps, resistance, and continuity wirelessly at a safe distance. You won’t have a hard time reading the measurements even in cramped areas because of its big display screen and backlight. This compact multimeter also allows you to measure true RMS. It automatically shuts down when not in use – thus preserving the battery life!

Fluke 1577 Insulation Multimeter. Photo from Fluke.com

Get your Fluke tools through an authentic source!

Hey, you made it to the bottom! Are you 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.

Sources:

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Attending To Power Harmonics With Fluke Tools

Newton’s third law says that for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. We are reaping the consequences of the actions of the generation before us. Harmonics has been around for a considerable amount since the introduction of electronic drives for motors, fans, and pumps. Let’s learn more about harmonics and how to address this problem.

What is Harmonics?

Harmonics are the side effects of electronics. These are distortions in the normal electrical current waveform transmitted by non-linear loads. When harmonics are combined with fundamental frequency, this creates distortion in the waveform which causes an adverse effect on your electrical equipment and power lines. Harmonics can be detected by checking these:

1. Load Inventory

2. Transformer Heat Check

3. Transformer secondary current

4. Sub-panel neutral current check

5. Receptacle neutral-to-ground voltage check

Switch-mode power can be seen on electrical devices such as photocopiers, personal computers, laser printers, fax machines, and battery chargers. They are commonly used in supply design because of their ability to supply a fixed voltage output continuously.

Dangers of Power Harmonics

Dealing with electricity can be hard at times because of the dangers it carries with it. There are power systems that can handle a certain level of harmonic currents. But if there is a significant load more than the power system can hold, it can cause errors in communication, overheating, and hardware damage. Here is some hardware damage that can happen:

  • Overheating of electrical distribution equipment, cable, transformers, standby generators, etc.
  • Metering errors
  • Generator failures
  • False tripping of branch circuit breakers
  • Lower system power factor resulting in penalties on monthly utility bills
  • Crest factors and related problems
  • Fires in wiring and distribution systems
  • High voltages and circulating currents caused by harmonic resonance

But these circumstances can be avoided with proper maintenance using dependable maintenance tools.

Solving Power Harmonics with Fluke Tools

To solve your harmonics problem, you can turn to Fluke! Fluke has reliable tools for measuring true-RMS and peak values of the wave shape.

Fluke 87V MAX True-rms Digital Multimeter

It measures true-RMS ac voltage and current of non-linear signals from electrically noisy equipment and variable frequency motor drives or VFDs. This trusted multimeter can work with you in dry, dusty, dark, or wet environments for long days. This rugged multimeter can survive drops up to 13 feet. It provides accurate measurements even within an extreme temperature that ranges from -40 degrees Celsius to +55 degrees Celsius. With a large display of digits, white backlight, and backlit keypad buttons, you won’t have a hard time reading the measurements! Use it for 800 hours

Fluke 87V MAX true-RMS Digital Multimeter. Photo from Fluke.com

Fluke 175 True-rms Digital Multimeter

This multimeter measures the frequency, capacitance, resistance, continuity, and diode. By measuring these, you are tracing the root of the problem. Its Display Hold and Auto Hold helps you capture important events or measurements. The data input is protected by IEN61010-1 CAT IV 600 or V/CAT III 1000 V. UL, CASA, and TUV.

Fluke 175 true-rms Digital Multimeter. Photo Fluke.com

Fluke 289 True-rms Data Logging Multimeter

It is a high-performance industrial logging multimeter of the next generation. This is Fluke Connect compatible which means you can monitor your readings even from afar using iOS or Android smart devices through the Fluke Connect app. It records and saves readings in real-time with a time stamp! It can also save up to 15,000 recorded readings. You can easily hang it because of its magnetic hanger. Thus, giving more room for your hands to move around.

Fluke 289 true-rms Data Logging Multimeter. Photo from Fluke.com

Fluke 381 Remote Display True-rms AC/DC Clamp Meter with iFlex

With a 6 feet cord, you can take readings even when you are in tight spaces. You won’t think about disorganized wires anymore! This ergonomic clamp meter has proprietary inrush measurement technology to filter noise and capture starting currents. The iFLEX Flexible Current Probe has expanded measurement range up to 2500 A AC.

Fluke 381 Remote Display True-rms AC/DC Clamp Meter with iFlex. Photo from Fluke.com

Get your Fluke tools through an authentic source!

Hey, you made it to the bottom! Are you 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.

Sources:

https://www.fluke.com/en-us/learn/blog/power-quality/troubleshooting-power-harmonics

https://www.newark.com/pdfs/techarticles/eaton/Eaton_Technical_Articles/UPS_Training/Powerware_Training/HarmonicsInYourElecSystem.pdf

https://www.electronics-tutorials.ws/accircuits/harmonics.html

https://www.electronics-tutorials.ws/power/switch-mode-power-supply.html

https://www.fluke.com/en-us/product/electrical-testing/digital-multimeters/87v-max

https://www.fluke.com/en-us/product/electrical-testing/digital-multimeters/fluke-175

https://www.fluke.com/en-us/product/electrical-testing/digital-multimeters/fluke-289

https://www.fluke.com/en-us/product/electrical-testing/clamp-meters/fluke-381

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How To Prevent Overheating Electrical Panels Using Fluke Tools!

Let’s give a brief background on why electrical panels are important to every household, or to every establishment in general. This little rectangular box holds the power to every electrical aspect of buildings and houses. We know it can seem a bit intimidating to look at but once you get the hang of it, it’s straightforward. Let’s just say that without electrical panels, you won’t be able to have control over electricity in certain areas of your home (if you’re a homeowner) or establishment (if you’re a maintenance professional).

Whether it be on buildings, homes, industrial plants, or in any area that requires electrical power, they will never be alive without electrical panels. So, regarding their importance, what would now happen if you had a faulty electrical panel in your midst, or worse, an overheating one? Here’s how you can resolve them with early detection using Fluke tools!

Reasons for overheating electrical panels

Initial, don’t be confused. All electrical panels may feel a bit warm since electrical currents run through them. There is a difference between a warm electrical panel and an overheating one. Remember, each circuit breaker is assigned to one current flow. Take a house, for example, one current flow (that is aligned to a breaker) may be connected to the bedroom, another can be connected to the kitchen, and so on.

Take note that circuit breakers also have ratings. So, if it exceeds that rating, it will also be a cause of a warm-up. However, these are not the only reasons why your panels are heating up. Here are some more probable reasons why they are overheating…

It might be a case of a loose connection.

Watch out for loose connections as this can generate heat. Loose connections often happen with the breakers. You see, when installing these little switches inside the electrical panel, you need to make sure that it is secured with the clip that holds them to the bus bar. If all else fails, maybe you need to bring out your screwdriver and tighten the lug that holds the breaker.

Current limits may also be in the works.

Keep in mind that electrical panels consist of multiple currents in different breakers, therefore, when one of those currents exceeds their rating then there might be a “trip” to the current flow breaking electricity. This can be a cause of power-hungry appliances. And, more often than not, when such appliances are often turned on and off, this can cause distress on your breaker. A simple solution would be to reset it. Switch it off, and switch it back on.

Faulty breakers also make electrical panels to overheat.

How do you know if one of your breakers is bad? An indication can be flickering lights or if your power is not working continuously in certain areas of your place. These are some of the signs that you have a bad breaker on your hands. If in such circumstances you’ve had your breakers replaced and are still experiencing the same thing, then it might be high time to upgrade to a modern panel.

Fluke tools to use for preventive measures and safety.

The iconic yellow holstered tools are a phenomenon in the industrial department. They are the best test tools that are highly recommended by professionals and maintenance men/women alike. They are not only known for their safe testing features but they are also well-applauded for their accurate performance. People working with Fluke tools in hand can operate more confidently, quickly, and safely, especially when working on highly sensitive projects. But that’s not all, Fluke tools are also praised because they can prevent all kinds of faults from a wide variety of tools, machines, electrical equipment, and even devices.

Considering preventing the overheating of electrical panels, Fluke tools can play a big role in determining faults in advance. Considering that most of these faults cannot be seen by our own eyes and might be too dangerous for us to inspect by hand, Fluke tool comes to the rescue with its high-performing tools. Here are some of the Fluke tools that can be an asset in the preventive maintenance of overheating electrical panels…

  1. Fluke Insulation Testers – They can be efficient in measuring phase-to-phase or phase-to-neutral voltage.
  2. Fluke Clamp Meters – They are good for measuring currents and looking for current harmonics.
  3. Fluke Energy Analyzers – These Fluke tools are great for monitoring voltage, harmonics, and load.
  4. Fluke Thermal Imagers – The preferred tools for spotting hot and cold spots.
  5. Fluke 1735 Three-Phase Powe Logger – They are great for measuring currents.
  6. Fluke 1587 Insulation Multimeter – They are perfect for measuring voltage and voltage drops.
  7. Fluke Insulated Tools – If you need to tighten bolts, make sure to use insulated tools for extra safety from harmful electricity.

Get your Fluke tools through an authentic source!

Hey, you made it to the bottom! Are you 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.

Sources:

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Importance Of Measuring True RMS

Electricity is an exact science. One miscalculation may lead to a catastrophe. Thus, it is important to measure it all regularly and accurately. We need the accurate measurement of the current to indicate the amount of the load and the condition of the load. Let’s learn about True RMS and how is it beneficial to us.

Dangers of miscalculating or not measuring True RMS

True RMS is the average of the set of values in which we measure alternating current. True RMS is helpful in giving us an idea of the capacity of the appliances when we plug them in. It is important to note the voltage needed by an appliance to work and the current capacity of the outlet. They must fit each other to avoid problems. Measuring the True RMS will also allow us to maintain our electricity sources.

Overheating of devices.

Overheating is caused by going beyond the capacity that a device can hold. Most of the time, overloaded circuits cause this. You might smell something burning, or see smoke, or worst case – fire.

 Here are tips to avoid overheating.

A.1. Do not use too many power strips.

A.2. Check your wiring.

A.3. Check your appliances too.

A.4. Find the source of your problem.

Malfunction of devices.

When the device does not receive the True RMS value it needs to function, it won’t work. For example, suppose a refrigerator needs 220 V of electricity. And you plug it in a source whose RMS is only 110 V. It does not contain enough current to power keep the refrigerator going.

How do you avoid these dangers?

Accidents do happen, yes. But you can act before it happens! Here is a list of safety precautions you must do to avoid the dangers mentioned above.

  1. Have your devices checked regularly. It is important to maintain your devices to monitor their conditions. Early problem detection is the key to avoiding further damage. Addressing the problem right away will help you find a solution right away.
  2. Stick to the calculated True RMS of the devices. Do not attempt to go beyond or under the True RMS measurement of your device. Sticking to the True RMS value will ensure that your device will work properly and will last you a long time.
  3. Do not overuse your devices. Everything gets worn out if it is used continuously without any break. Let your devices rest too.
  4. Do not use worn-out cords. Worn-out cords can expose the live wire which can be extremely dangerous to come in contact with. Either you get electrocuted, or you set fire.
  5. Do not leave your devices plugged in when not in use. These devices must rest too. When they are not used, the plug can still release a certain amount of heat. And it might cause the device to overheat.

 What Fluke devices to use to measure True RMS?


 
Ever wondered which tools will help you measure the True RMS? Here is a list of Fluke Tools for you! Known for its accuracy and reliability, Fluke Tools ensure the safety of your place. Here are some of the Fluke tools that will help you with your RMS concern.

1. Fluke 179 Digital Multimeter

This digital multimeter has manual and automatic ranging. It can measure 1000 volts of AC (Alternating Current) and DC (Direct Current). This robust, fast and accurate multimeter has a backlit digital display with an analog bar graph and built-in temperature measurements and thermocouple!

Fluke 179. Photo from Fluke.com

2.  Fluke 117 Electrician’s Multimeter with Non-Contact Voltage

This compact True RMS digital multimeter is made for electricians. Its non-contact feature keeps you safe when detecting True RMS. Designed to be carried anywhere from commercial buildings to hospitals and even schools! This compact multimeter provides measurements for resistance, continuity, frequency, and capacitance.

Fluke 117. Photo from Fluke.com

3. Fluke 120B Series Industrial Scope Meter handheld Oscilloscopes

This oscilloscope and multimeter have connect and view trigger for hands-off operation. This device simplifies testing but gives you more information about your device.

Fluke 120B. Photo from Fluke.com

Get your Fluke tools through an authentic source!

Hey, you made it to the bottom! 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. 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.

Sources:

https://www.fluke.com/en-ph/product/electrical-testing/portable-oscilloscopes/120b

https://www.fluke.com/en-ph/product/electrical-testing/digital-multimeters/fluke-179

https://www.fluke.com/en-ph/product/electrical-testing/digital-multimeters/fluke-117

https://www.fluke.com/en-ph/learn/blog/electrical/what-is-true-rms

https://www.artplumbingandac.com/electrical/why-is-my-electrical-outlet-warm/#:~:text=The%20most%20likely%20problem%20causing,heat%20in%20an%20electrical%20outlet.

https://yeobuild.com.sg/tips-how-to-avoid-appliance-overheating/

https://www.fluke.com/en-ph/learn/blog/electrical/what-is-current#:~:text=Amperage%20measurements%20are%20normally%20taken,to%20cause%20electrons%20to%20move.

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Maintenance Management is Keeping the World Up and Running (Here’s Why!)

Going the extra mile to make sure your machines and devices are running smoothly can reap rewards in the long run. Many don’t know it, but maintenance management is a key factor in helping keep the industry up and operating. Without daily maintenance checks, a lot of machines and devices may be susceptible to faults and other malfunctions. This alone might negatively impact the productivity of workers and put a wedge on their day-to-day processes.

Just imagine if important assets suddenly shut down. Take the internet as an example. Nowadays, if your internet provider experiences any hiccups, a whole population is affected by it, with their work, school, entertainment, and a lot of other things. It’s quite obvious that people hate experiencing downtimes.

This also applies to valuable assets. Unwanted machine/device breakdowns are unforgivable especially if you need to meet certain schedules or if the machine on hand is responsible for providing power. Technically, this only highlights how important maintenance management is especially if we’re living in a machine-dependent economy. So, let’s go in-depth into just how maintenance management keeps the world up and running and how we benefit from it.

Why everyone should practice maintenance management.

Maintenance management deals with caring about the performance of every industrial tool, device, or machine. Remember, no matter how high-end your device is, it will always be susceptible to faults. Having maintenance management in your protocols can not only help with machine health but it can also be of advantage to the people working with the machines.

Having maintenance management can benefit you in these ways:

  • Longevity of the machine/device – If you do daily maintenance checks, you can easily spot possible faults that might occur. This will also save you from costly repairs.
  • It will keep the workplace a healthier environment – A well-conditioned machine keeps the workers around it more confident and assured that there won’t be any unwanted surprises.
  • Improves efficiency – if your tools are well-maintained, this will allow them to be more efficient and reliable. Accurate data and such can be expected from them.
  • Will be cost efficient – If your tools are working well, then there’s no use to spend on replacements. Whereas when you’re handling a machine that’s practically breaking down, then expect a lot of costly repairs to be made.

How efficient Fluke tools are for maintenance management?

We’re talking about the best of the best. Fluke tools are the most reliable tools for maintenance. Professionals, men, and women who work in the maintenance field prefer to have Fluke tools by their sides when doing maintenance rounds. Why? These tools aren’t just ahead of their time, but they also ensure every worker’s safety on the field. Here are the top reasons why you should have fluke tools with you during maintenance management…

  • They allow you to take measurements from afar so you don’t have to risk your safety by having close proximity to malfunctioning machines or devices.
  • Fluke can see what the naked eye cannot – they can spot possible faults that may occur.
  • These tools can also give a diagnosis of what you should do once a fault is spotted.
  • They can give and send real-time results.
  • Some Fluke features 2 or more functions in one. 
  • They encourage wireless testing.
  • Fluke instruments help to eradicate the drastic costs attributed to manual errors.

The best maintenance practice you can apply?

Do them as often as you can. If you have reliable Fluke tools by your side, why not test and test your equipment and machines as often as you can? The key to working closely with sensitive (but important) assets is to never be complacent with them. Usually, the best assets are also the costliest ones, and Fluke corporation understands this dilemma. Therefore, they built the best tools for the job.

So, as much as possible, the best maintenance management practice that is applicable anywhere and everywhere is to always evaluate your equipment are often as possible. Therefore, most maintenance men and women on the job roam around with a device in hand. Trust us when we say you will rarely see one without a testing tool with them. This is because most Fluke tools are not even that big that it becomes a nuisance to bring along. Most of them fit right in your pocket! So yes, they are not only dependable, but they are best for hand carry tools.

Going back… So how does maintenance management keep the world up and running again?

By simply taking care of the machines and equipment that makes the world go round of course! One of the main goals of maintenance management is to make sure that everything is working in its tippy-top condition. Living in a machine-generated world, this process speaks of significant importance every day. Add in Fluke tools in the picture, and we are pretty sure that things can last a bit longer.

Get your Fluke tools through an authentic source!

Hey, you made it to the bottom! 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. 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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The Difference Between Absolute Accuracy and Relative Accuracy

These types of accuracy are commonly found in IR thermometers. So, when you have one, knowing the difference between absolute accuracy and relative accuracy will come in handy one way or another. So, first things first, what’s the catch between accuracy and IR thermometers? Don’t get us wrong, Fluke’s IR thermometers do not come short when it comes to performance, but rather, you would want to take note of a few extra tips to ensure accuracy in all operations using IR Thermometers.

This is applicable in different sectors.

Accuracy is of vital importance when it comes to any testing and maintenance operation. IR thermometers can be used in building automobiles, electrical components, processing food, and maintaining electrical systems. Using an IR thermometer can be quite beneficial for these types of projects and proves to be a safe and effective way to accurately inspect any electrical, electronic, and mechanical work.

Trust that these are the tools that can do the job well when it comes to sensing even the most subtle temperature differences that can break any of your machines and devices. What’s amazing about them is that it also promises workers safe troubleshooting and maintenance rounds by letting you test from a safe distance. So, if you’re testing hot, hazardous, or even moving targets, you’ll have the confidence to do tests without worrying about getting injured.

The two basic types of accuracy in IR Thermometers.

There are two types of accuracy related to infrared thermometers, and that is absolute accuracy and relative accuracy. Both entail a proper understanding of the ins and outs of an IR thermometer and of course, proper calibration. However, let’s get into the deep end of each to exactly know how they work.

Both relative and absolute accuracy works together. Relative accuracy only deals with certain operations. If the temperature of the target is not in comparison to the rest of the machine this entails relative accuracy. Ideally, this takes place when you’re testing or inspecting electrical and electromechanical systems, building envelopes, and circuit boards. Let’s take circuit boards as an example. When you find that one part of the component is hot then it might be an indication of an overload. Then again, if it shows that it’s cold, then you might be dealing with a failure. See how it only affects a part of the component but not a whole?

On the other hand, to achieve absolute accuracy, your tool needs to undergo proper calibration. Unlike relative accuracy, which deals with the action of testing and maintenance, absolute accuracy deals with your Fluke tool’s performance and how well it can produce results. Of course, there are certain precautions for you to get it right, but nonetheless, without proper and daily calibration, your IR thermometer might not produce on-point results.

Remember, that Fluke tools are also prone to deterioration and depending on how you care for them, they also have the tendency to decrease in performance which is why calibration is very important for Fluke tools.

Get your Fluke tools through an authentic source!

Hey, you made it to the bottom! Are you 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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Top 3 Tools for Electrical Safety Testing

You do not need a lot of tools and devices by your side with false promises of safety. Fluke tools are a pioneer in the industry because of their proven and tested ways to ensure worker safety during risky operations. When you are frequently exposed to dangerous electric materials and machines, these are the ideal tools for you to take. These three tools are the holy grail of ensuring safety and security in every operation.

What type of tool can ensure safety and security?

The type of tool that you want with you all the time are tools that can let you measure without any sort of contact. As much as possible, the safest way to do maintenance and test checks is within a safe distance. Insulated tools, PPE, and rubber soles can only do so much when you are up against powerful arc flashes and a faulty machine that can seriously damage your body.

Besides having a tool that can efficiently measure from afar, you also need a device that can accurately give you results. Therefore, Fluke tools are the ideal tools for the job. Fluke tools can give you the duality of safely testing faulty equipment and electric material within a safe distance, and at the same time, can give you an accurate and timely diagnosis.

The top three tools that can guarantee safe electrical testing…

As we have mentioned, you do not need a lot of tools to take with you to guarantee safety, you just need to take the right ones. These top three tools can give you electrical safety that is even better than bringing a whole toolbox with you. Considered the big three Fluke tools, the non-contact voltage testers, electrical testers, and digital multimeters will undoubtedly make every difference.

1) Fluke Non-Contact Voltage Tester…

This is a handy tool that is small enough to fit in your pockets. Its main function is detecting the presence of voltage with failed or malfunctioning assets. So, if ever you encounter one, the best tool that can give you the most accurate results is a non-contact voltage tester.

These tools can sense even the smallest amount of voltage current. The built-in sensor at the tip of the device lights up red (and waits for it to beep) this indicates that voltage is present in the material. What is great with this tool is you do not even need contact for it to work, and that alone is added safety for all workers already.

But beware, according to an official Fluke source, non-contact voltage testers can give a false negative indication (meaning it does not light up) when these instances occur…

  • The insulated test point touches grounded metal.
  • The cable being evaluated is partially buried.
  • The user is isolated from the ground.
  • It is used inside a metal enclosure.
  • Proximity testers also will not detect the presence of voltage through the shield on the shielded cable. To better understand why proximity testers, have these limitations, read the Fluke application note on the subject, “Understanding capacitive voltage sensors.” The key word is “proximity.”

2) Fluke Digital Multimeter

A great weapon of choice when you are evaluating any kind of electricity either for faults or simply doing maintenance rounds. These tools can multitask a lot and get plenty of testing done with just one device! Its testing capabilities do not just focus on one but feel free to evaluate voltmeters, ammeters, and ohmmeters as well.

Multimeters fall into one of a handful of categories:

  • General-purpose (aka Testers)
  • Standard
  • Advanced
  • Compact
  • Wireless

3) Fluke Vibration Testers

Every maintenance professional takes pride in having a Fluke Vibration Tester. Already tagged as the best and most advanced troubleshooting tool for mechanical maintenance. The device uses a special diagnosis technology that helps you immediately identify mechanical faults and prevent downtime and drastic measures to occur.

This device lets you…

  • Quickly analyze machine health.
  • Let us observe the severity of the faults.
  • It features enhanced reporting.
  • Gives you suggestions to solve the current machine situation.
  • Let us address critical problems in real-time.

Get your Fluke tools through an authentic source!

Hey, you made it to the bottom! 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. 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

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.

Read more

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.

Read more

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