Understanding Motor Drive Efficiency and Performance

Motor drives are commonly found technology that is used to transform constant voltage from the main AC power supply into a voltage that varies to control motor torque and speed. Motor drives have higher efficiency and have a degree of control that is not available on simple directly driven motors. These features result in energy cost saving, better production performance, and extended life of the motor.

Motor systems are vital to the operations of almost every plant. It accounts for 60% to 70% of all electricity used [according to the US Department of Energy]. Unsurprisingly, motor drives are frequently used in many industries and facilities. Make troubleshooting and maintenance a priority to ensure that motor drives are working efficiently.

CHALLENGES IN TESTING MOTOR DRIVES

Variable Frequency Drives (VFD), Variable Speed Drives (VSD), or Adjustable Speed Drives (ASD) are often performed by specialists. They use several test instruments like oscilloscopes, digital multimeters, and other test tools. The said testing may involve trial and error using elimination. Testing typically occurs annually, unless, there is a system malfunction. Due to a lack or incomplete history of the equipment, identifying where to begin such a test becomes problematic. Equipment history includes documentation of specified tests and previous measurements performed, completed work or as-left condition of individual components.

But newer instruments like the Fluke Motor Drive Analyzers MDA-510 and MDA-550, makes drive testing more efficient and insightful with the capability to document the process every step along the way. These reports can be stored and compared against subsequent tests to get a bigger picture of motor drive maintenance history.

AN EASIER WAT TO TROUBLESHOOT VFDs

Advanced motor drive analyzers combine the functions of a meter, handheld oscilloscope and recorded along with the guidance of a skilled instructor to employ on-screen prompts, clear setup diagrams, and step by step instructions written by motor drive experts to help you through the needed tests.

To get to the root cause of a motor drive system failure or when doing a preventive maintenance check is best done with a set of standard tests and measurements at key points within the system. Starting with the power input, key tests with different measurement techniques and evaluation criteria are completed throughout the system, ending at the output.

Here are the essentials tests for troubleshooting motor drives:

Safety notes: read the product safety information before you start. Comply with local and national safety codes. Use personal protective equipment to prevent shock and arc blast injury where hazardous live conductors are exposed.

To begin each test with a Fluke Motor Drive Analyzer simply connect the test probes according to the diagram, then select Next.

Drive Input

An effective first step in determining if a feeder circuit to the drive has a distortion/disturbance/noise that may be affecting power ground is to analyze the power going into the motor drive

  • Differentiate the measured frequency against specified frequency. Exceeding 0.5Hz difference could cause problems
  • Observe if whether the harmonic distortion is within an acceptable level. Look at the waveform shape or view the harmonics spectrum screen that shows both the total harmonic distortion and individual distortion. Flat-top waveforms can indicate a nonlinear load connected to the same feeder circuit. If total Harmonic Distortion exceeds 6% there is a potential problem
  • Check the voltage unbalance at the input terminals to make sure that the phase unbalance is not too high (less than 6-8%) and that the phase rotation is correct. High voltage unbalance reading can indicate phase failure. Over 2% reading can lead to voltage notching and cause a trip of the drive’s overload fault protection or disturb other equipment.
  • Check for current unbalance. Excessive unbalance may indicate a drive rectifier problem. A current unbalance reading over 6% may point to a problem within the motor drive and become problematic.

DC Bus

The conversion of AC to DC inside the drive is critical. It is required to have the correct voltage and adequate smoothing with low ripple to have the best drive performance. High ripple voltage may indicate failed capacitors or incorrect sizing of the connected motor. You can use Fluke MDA-500’s record function to check DC bus performance dynamically in the operating mode while a load is applied.

  • Determine if the DC bus voltage is proportional to the peak of the input line voltage. The voltage should be about 1.31 to 1.41 times the RMS line voltage (except controlled rectifiers)
  • Check for any distortion or error in peak amplitude of the line voltage. A DC voltage reading +/- 10% from the nominal voltage can be a sign of a problem.
  • Identify if the peaks of the AC ripple have a different repetition level. Ripple voltages above 40V can be due to malfunctioning capacitors or a drive rating too small for the connected motor or load.

Drive Input

It is important to check the drive output. It can show clues to problems within the drive circuits.

  • Check if the voltage and current are within limits. High output current decreases stator insulation life.
  • Ensure that the voltage/frequency ratio is in specified limits. A high ratio may make the motor overheat; a low ratio will make the motor lose torque. Unstable frequency and voltage indicate potential issues with the speed control circuits
  • Observe the voltage modulation using phase to phase measurements. Voltage peaks higher than 50% can be problematic.
  • Check the steepness of the switching impulses as shown by the drive reading. It is the rate of the voltage over time. Compare it to the motor’s specified insulation.
  • Measure voltage unbalances at full load. It shouldn’t exceed 2% as it can cause excessive heat in the motor winding.
  • Measure current unbalance, which should not exceed 10% for three-phase motors. Large unbalance with low voltage can be caused by shorted motor windings or phases shorted to ground.

Motor Input

The voltage supplied at the motor input terminals = key. Cable selection from drive to motor = critical.

Improper cabling selection can result in both drive and motor damage due to excessive reflected voltage peaks.

  • Check that the current present at the terminals is within the motor rating. Over-current conditions can cause the motor to get hot and lessen the life of the stator insulation.
  • Voltage modulation can help identify possible problematic high voltage peaks to ground
  • Voltage unbalance that affects the life of the motor can be a sign of damaged inverter.

Motor Shaft Voltage

When the rotor shaft exceeds the insulating capacity of the bearing grease, flashover currents or sparks can occur. It can result in pitting and fluting of the motor bearing race that can damage motor permanently.

  • Measure the voltage between the motor chassis and the drive shaft. The Fluke MDA-550 provides a carbon fiber brush probe for this purpose. This test can detect the presence of destructive sparks and the impulse amplitude can help you prevent future failures.

Interested in Fluke MDA-550 Motor Drive Analyzer? Order it at Presidium.PH to get a discount!

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Top Benefits of Vibration Monitoring and Analysis

Throughout the years, many companies have transitioned from “run-to-fail” maintenance strategies to preventive maintenance strategies. This is because as many companies found, have allowed lower maintenance costs and lower production costs.

However, over the past couple of years, many of the biggest companies have transitioned from preventive maintenance to condition-based maintenance. With this new type of maintenance, machines are measured through vibration analysis. Vibration analysis is a non-invasive, non-machine tearing technique that allows engineers to find out the condition of a machine not before and not too late. Through vibration analysis, when a machine condition fault comes up, a repair is automatically scheduled as needed.

What are the benefits of vibration testing?

  1. This allows predictability, in that it allows you time to schedule repairs and to acquire the parts that you need ahead of time.
  2. Vibration testing makes the work environment more safe as it allows you to pull out equipment before it becomes hazardous for everyone.
  3. This process allows for fewer unexpected failures, which helps to keep production from stopping unexpectedly, which could thereby cut into the bottom line.
  4. Vibration analysis also allows increased intervals in maintenance. This then extends the life of the equipment and allows you to schedule maintenance only when needed.
  5. When you use vibration testing, this makes equipment more reliable as it incurs fewer unexpected failures because you will be able to identify problem areas before they fail.
  6. Finally, this gives engineers the peace of mind they need when coming up with maintenance schedules, budgeting and estimating equipment productivity.

All in all, having an advanced vibration tool on hand allows for higher productivity and lesser machine failures.

The mechanics of vibration testing can be summarized into three simple steps:

  • First, by identifying the vibration peaks relating to the source components on the machine.
  • Second, by then looking for patterns in the data based on vibration rules.
  • Lastly, by measuring the amplitude of the vibration peak to determine the severity of the fault.

Once you’ve determined the fault and severity, you’ll be able to recommend a repair and create a specific work order needed.

Learn more about the various industry-related articles here at Presidium.PH! Contact us to know more about our products. You may call us at +63 2 464 9339 or email us at info@presidium.ph!

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Learning more about capacitive voltage sensors

Have you ever seen that tiny pen with a glowing tip? Do you know that it is called capacitive voltage sensors and it’s one of the technological breakthroughs in the metrology industry?

 

Wondering how it works? Here’s how:

 

AC voltage detectors work based on the principle of capacitive coupling. According to Fluke, to understand this, let’s return momentarily to electrical circuit theory and recall how a capacitor works. A capacitor has two conductors or “plates” that are separated by a non-conductor called a dielectric. If we connect an ac voltage across the two conductors, an ac current will flow as the electrons are alternately attracted or repelled by the voltage on the opposite plate. There’s a complete ac circuit even though there’s no “hard-wired” circuit connection. The electrical “field” inside the capacitor, between the two plates, is what completes the AC circuit.

 

We are actually missing the fact that our world is full of small “stray” capacitors. We always think that these are just individual circuit components like motor starting caps.

 

Here’s an example from the Fluke website:

 

Suppose you are standing on a carpeted concrete floor directly under a 120 V light fixture and the light is on. Your body is conducting a very small ac current because it is part of a circuit consisting of two capacitors in series. The two conductors or plates for the first capacitor are the live element in the light bulb and your body. The dielectric is the air (and maybe your hat) between them. The two conductors for the second capacitor are your body and the concrete floor (remember that concrete is a good conductor, as is shown by the use of concrete-encased electrodes as earth grounds).

 

The dielectric for the second capacitor is the carpet plus your shoes and socks. This second capacitor is much larger than the first. A very small ac current will flow because there is 120 V across the series combination. (As an aside, this current must be way below the shock threshold or we wouldn’t be living in a world of ac power-we definitely would not be turning on lights in the bathroom.)

 

For more information and knowledge about the various products from Fluke Industrial Group and Fluke Calibration, check out the other blogs for Presidium.PH now!

 

You can also get this product for A SPECIAL DISCOUNT so make sure to CONTACT US NOW or email us at info@presidium.ph!

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The Importance of Thermal Imaging in Data Centers

Ensuring that data storage remains safe, secure and accessible requires systematically taking and storing thermal images of data center equipment.

 

With this, it is crucial to have periodic inspections of data centers to ensure the reliability and sustainability of their systems to avoid lost data due to failed equipment.

 

In line with this, an important tool for performing data center inspections today, is the thermal imager, also referred to as an infrared (IR) camera.

 

A thermal imager is an industrial tool that displays and has an ability to store two-dimensional images of an object’s surface temperatures. This enables you to easily detect anomalies in the temperatures of electrical or mechanical components, that are hotter or colder than similar objects within the same environment.

 

Overheating components may indicate potential problems and would require maintenance to avoid system failure. On the other hand, cool surfaces might also indicate a problem, such as a possible imbalance in the HVAC system that would require correcting.

 

Additionally, thermal cameras can also be used to record actual surface temperatures. This is useful in detecting situations such as an overheating transformer or motor, to give time for repair or replacement before failure.

 

To maximize the use of thermal cameras, it is ideal to capture potential problems detected from the thermal images. For recording and proper monitoring, upload the captured images to a computer that is equipped with a software for reporting and analysis.

 

Keeping a thermal “track record” on file is helpful in getting long term comparison, to better detect abnormal readings and any inconsistencies. Moreover, to ensure consistency and better comparison, establish a sampling route and scan the same objects or areas each time from the same vantage points.

 

To know more about the latest thermal imaging products, visit our website at www.presidium.ph. An authorized distributor of FLUKE products in the Philippines, Presidium offers a wide-array of infrared cameras. For more information, visit our website at https://presidium.ph/product-category/products/fluke-industrial-group-tools/infrared-cameras/.

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Testing a centrifugal chiller through a thermal imager

For many business and commercial buildings alike, the centrifugal chiller has been one of the most important factors for every HVAC system. It helps to compress the vapor from the water by chilling it and rejecting the heat. Its compact size and lightweight material enables it to be efficient in the cooling cycle loop. This also developed the norm for every commercial building as the cost of energy has increased. However, mechanical problems are inevitable for centrifugal chillers. When this happens, it must be properly observed. One particular product that can be used is thermal imager. It is perfect for detecting problems at many of centrifugal chiller’s test points listed below:

 

  • Control Panel

 

Using thermal imager can effectively help you see issues with low voltage systems in control panels. In the instances of poor electrical connections and failed components, a thermal imager can be of great help to identify them and provide necessary adjustments that you can implement.

 

  • Compressor

 

A thermal imager can also help in diagnosing or observing temperature differences in various parts of compressors. With Centrifugal chillers, detecting temperature within its compressor is a great source of insight during its maintenance.

 

  • Motor

 

Motors inside a centrifugal chiller is a delicate piece of the hardware that makes them properly work. A thermal imager can be an invaluable tool for inspecting and maintaining these motors.

 

  • Bearing

 

With a thermal imager, you can detect bearing issues in motors as it determines the status of their lubrication, shat alignment, and other general wear conditions.

 

  • Chilled water supply and chiller water return

 

A good temperature of water supply and water return in chillers is a good sign of its performance. A thermal imager can provide the real-time temperature data for these chillers and provide reasonably accurate temperature measurement, giving an insight to the person as to what are the necessary adjustments that need to be done.

 

Making sure that your centrifugal chiller is properly working is an important task to do. Hence, you need a trusted measurement tool and thermal imager that can help you with that! With Fluke thermal imagers, you can be confident that every maintenance issues that your chiller will experience can be taken care of! Its special features make sure that all of your needs are dealt with. As the country’s top Fluke authorized distributor in the country, Presidium is your top choice to have the best test tools!

 

For more info, you can contact us at +632-464-9339 or visit our website at www.presidium.ph.

 

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20 Ways You Can Save Time with Fluke 62 MAX+

The Fluke 62 MAX + Infrared Thermometer is a point and shoot device that can help you troubleshoot malfunctioning HVAC mechanical systems. This diagnostic tool can help you save money with its multiple usages:

 

  1. CHECK DISCHARGE AIR TEMPERATURE

 

You don’t have to use a ladder anymore when checking the discharge air temperature of an HVAC unit with a ceiling discharge with the Fluke 62 MAX + Infrared Thermometer. You can also use the values to adjust the control system

 

  1. CHECK THERMOSTAT ACCURACY

 

The Fluke 62 MAX+ IR Thermometer can quickly check the accuracy of the thermostat so you can make the appropriate adjustments or replacement (if needed).

 

  1. CHECK INLET AND OUTLET WATER TEMPERATURES

 

HVAC Systems’ water coils typically use hot or chilled water. This being said, you can use the Fluke 62 MAX+ IR Thermometer to check water temperatures in the inlet and outlet of the coil. This will indicate proper water temperature, heat transfer, and valve operation. It can also indicate if there are problems with water balance.

 

  1. CHECK AIR HANDLER COIL TEMPERATURES

 

You can use the Fluke 62 MAX+ IR Thermometer to quickly check the coil temperatures of HVAC air handling units. This will minimize energy waste and maximize comfort.

 

  1. CHECK BOILER HOT WATER TEMPERATURES

 

You can check the hot water boiler temperatures easily and safely using the Fluke 62 MAX + IR Thermometer. By adjusting the water temperature to avoid getting off over the course of a heating season, you can avoid expensive energy expenses.

 

  1. CHECK STEAM TRAPS

 

Stream trap failure can result in a system freeze up when left unnoticed. With the Fluke 62 MAX+ IR Thermometer, you can quickly identify a steam trap that has failed either open or closed.

 

  1. CHECK AIR DISTRIBUTION

 

The Fluke 62 MAX + IR Thermometer can identify shut off discharge ducts by scanning the discharge temperatures of different ducts and taking note of those that show incorrect discharge temperature.

 

  1. CHECK FOR HOT AND COLD SPOTS

 

Hot and cold spots are caused by system design or installation and it can cause discomfort and complaints. The Fluke 62 MAX + IR Thermometer can identify the sources of this discomfort.

 

  1. CHECK POWER SUPPLIES IN A PANEL

 

The Fluke 62 MAX + IR Thermometer can identify the power supply that has failed and is causing improper system operation in an HVAC control panel that has multiple power supplies.

 

  1. CHECK HUMIDIFIER OPERATION

 

You can identify if there is water or steam present at the humidifier and if it is operating properly without direct contact with the humidifier using the Fluke 62 MAX + IR Thermometer.

 

  1. CHECK CHILLER SET POINTS

 

To avoid energy waste caused by the incorrect temperature of chilled water, you can use the Fluke 62 MAX + IR Thermometer to make sure the chilled water temperature provided to the building is the same with the set point.

 

  1. CHECK LOW-TEMPERATURE LIMITS

 

There is a low-temperature switch in almost every commercial air handling unit. This stops the supply fan to prevent the water coil from freezing up. But in cases that the low-temperature limit is incorrectly adjusted, you can use Fluke 62 MAX + IR Thermometer to check the calibration and adjust as needed.

 

  1. SAFE CHECKING OF CEILING MOUNT EQUIPMENT

 

When the HVAC equipment is located in a hazardous and hard to reach area, you can still check its temperature using the Fluke 62 MAX + IR Thermometer.

 

  1. CHECK THE OPERATION OF VAV BOX HOT WATER REHEAT

 

The most common type of HVAC system installed today is variable air volume or VAV.  Many VAV terminal boxes are located at the perimeter of the building and include hot water reheat coils. You can use the Fluke 62 MAX+ IR Thermometer to check the discharge air temperature of the VAV box as well as the reheat coil inlet and outlet water temperatures. These will indicate whether the hot water valve is opening and closing properly.

 

  1. CHECK RETURN AIR TEMPERATURES

 

The supply air temperature of an air handling unit isn’t the only thing that needs to be checked, it is advised to check the temperature of the return air from the room. The Fluke 62 MAX+ IR Thermometer is an ideal instrument to use to check the return air temperature.

 

  1. CHECK ELECTRIC HEATING COIL OPERATION

 

If the controls are functioning improperly, large energy waste can occur that leads to very high energy bills. You can use the Fluke 62 MAX+ IR Thermometer to check the correct temperature set points of the electric heating coils.

 

  1. CHECK COMPRESSOR TEMPERATURE

 

This can be very expensive. You can use the Fluke 62 MAX+ IR Thermometer to check the compressor temperatures and detect problems before they lead to expensive failures. This can also avoid product loss and system downtime.

 

  1. CHECK COOLER AND FREEZER TEMPERATURES

 

It is critical that products in coolers and freezers are maintained at the correct temperature. The Fluke 62 MAX+ IR Thermometer can quickly show that the products in a cooler or freezer are stored under the proper conditions. And at the same time, you can check the evaporator coil and discharge air temperatures as well.

 

  1. CHECK FOR DEFROST TEMPERATURE

 

You can easily check the defrost system operation with the Fluke 62 MAX+ IR Thermometer. Defrost systems are there to melt the ice when needed. If the defrost system fails to operate properly, the refrigeration system may ice up and fail, which will cause product loss.

 

  1. CHECK REFRIGERANT COIL SURFACE TEMPERATURES AND CONDENSER TEMPERATURES

 

Another usage of the Fluke 62 MAX+ IR Thermometer is to check the actual coil temperatures of refrigeration system evaporators and condensers. These temperatures specify proper system operation and efficiency. Improper coil temperatures can help identify problems while they are small and can be fixed easily.

 

The Fluke 62 MAX + Infrared Thermometer is indeed a device that makes measuring temperatures easier, quicker, and safer.

 

You can get this device in A SPECIAL DISCOUNTED PRICE at Presidium.PH! Send us an inquiry here or email us at info@presidium.ph or contact us at +63 2 464 9339

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The Various Applications of Laser Distance Meter

Laser distance meter is perfect for professionals that want a technologically advanced but easy to use distance measurement.

There are 100 ways to use a laser distance meter:

Facilities:

  1. Measures distances over areas in which there are obstacles in the way barring the use of measuring tapes of wheels.
  2. It can calculate the internal floor space or volume of a room of a building
  3. Create as-built dimensions where no blueprints are given
  4. Determine the footprint of equipment to aid in layout
  5. Confirm that new construction satisfies usage requirements
  6. Layout parking lots
  7. Determine if the sides of the room are completely parallel
  8. Confirm CAD sketches for as-builts and design drawings
  9. Can measure via triangulation the height or width of buildings
  10. Provide precise estimates and measure distances, area, or volume.
  11. Quote on crane needed for rooftop equipment replacement
  12. Measure ceiling height
  13. Calculate the needed wire rope for crane
  14. Set up collision detection for cranes without the need for aerial lifts and tape
  15. Measure runway spans for cranes
  16. Measure ceiling heights needed in installing emergency lightings, sprinklers, fire extinguishers
  17. Determine accurate room dimensions to guarantee correct chemical concentration for Clean Agent Fire Suppression System
  18. Measure distances from machines for safety equipment
  19. Measure fire suppression tanks’ water levels
  20. Document the location of standing water or leaks found with a thermal imager or infrared thermometer.
  21. Measure the height for appropriate ladder selection
  22. Measure room dimension to know how many floors covering is required
  23. Measure the room dimension to determine how much paint is required
  24. Use in setting up floor support in large communication rooms.

Electrical:

  1. Locate underground cable faults and tell the precise distance of fault from starting point without measuring tape of wheel
  2. Locate underground cable and shoot back with distance meter
  3. Measure distances of underground cables from landmarks or known hazards
  4. Determine the length of wire
  5. Measure depth and distance of underground conduit
  6. Measure distance to determine voltage drops
  7. Calculate total length needed for setting up wire assemblies and harnesses
  8. Measure the height of high voltage lines
  9. Determine distances for the linear length of wire or cable runs
  10. Determine distances for linear feet or meters of conduit required for new installations
  11. Measure distances to objects within hard-to-reach drop ceilings to specify overhead cable runs
  12. Measure ceiling height to determine rod lengths for drop ceiling installations or lighting fixtures
  13. Measure distance under subfloors or buildings for networking
  14. Measure power system devices’ distances.
  15. Measure the electrical room square for regulation verification
  16. Determine where to place power connections to the power supplies in manufacturing floor layouts
  17. Determine distance around walls for proper receptacle placement per code
  18. Determine the distances between electrical service poles
  19. Measure disconnect placement for spas and pools

Industrial

  1. Determine the length of the conveyor belt
  2. Calculate the conveyor belt’s capacity based on its length
  3. Estimate heat loading by measuring the distance between machines
  4. Determine the ventilation requirements of equipment
  5. Confirm the accuracy of tank level transmitters
  6. Measure power plant water intake’s water level
  7. Determine the volume of industrial ovens
  8. Align large welding fixtures
  9. Check calibration of automated product shuttle distance sensors

HVAC

  1. Determine the distances for air handler spacing­­­
  2. Size ducts for traversals
  3. Specify duct run type
  4. Determine room volume for airflow requirements
  5. Measure distances for duct runs (installation or replacement)
  6. Determine pipe drainage’s rise or drop distance
  7. Compute duct lengths for static pressure drop
  8. Measure roof height for flue lengths

Plumbing

  1. Measure condensation lines for installation or repair
  2. Determine the size of the yard to figure out sprinkler heads needed
  3. Determine the distances between tower drives for water pressure calculation
  4. Measure distance for pump lines and piping runs
  5. Measure distance between pumps and distance the pump needs to push the liquid

Construction

  1. Find horizontal lengths for finding out rain gutter length
  2. Measure distances from roads and property lines to obey with local building codes
  3. Find out the amount of sheetrock to cover surfaces
  4. Determine trench, hole depth
  5. Find out insulation requirements
  6. Find out offset needed for septic systems

Lighting

  1. Specify length to access light fixtures in high ceilings for maintenance
  2. Determine the distance from power supplies for LED and low-voltage electronic loads
  3. Find out the number of power supplies needed in temporary LED lighting applications
  4. Determine lumen requirements based on ceiling height
  5. Find the center point of ceiling and other key locations for lighting installations

IT

  1. Find out network equipment spacing in communication rooms
  2. Measure reach and distance between wireless network elements for IT installations

Towers

  1. Approximate guy-cable lengths for cell towers
  2. Find out the safe distance from microwave transmitters on cell towers
  3. Measure the height of equipment on utility poles in surveying for cell towers sites
  4. Measure heights of lines and brackets on transmission towers for upkeep

Solar

  1. Determine roof width and peak height to compute roof pitch is estimating the output of solar panels.
  2. Find out roof area for solar panel size estimates
  3. Record location of shading analysis for ground-mounted photovoltaic array

Automotive

  1. Calibrate on-board distance and warning system
  2. Set up a stopping distance course for demonstration and brake test
  3. Check for vehicle oversize load clearances.

Multimedia and Theatre

  1. Measure the height of a lighting pipe to raise theatrical lighting trusses to a certain height above the stage.
  2. Calculate viewing angles and audio-based predicted coverage maps
  3. Determine the height of the video projector and screen for calculation of light and pixel per inch quality of the projection
  4. Figure length for video and camera cable compensation computations
  5. Measure distances for camera lens selection, focus, and zoom settings

BioMed

  1. Confirm the source-to-image distances for X-ray equipment
  2. Confirm if discrete medical equipment distance requirements are met when systems are installed

Others

  1. Continuously measure automated moving equipment to confirm the correct location
  2. Find the distance from a target to the optical micrometer mounted on an alignment telescope for setups in a calibration lab
  3. Find the distance between surveillance cameras and the desired coverage
  4. Check the measurement from objects for setting thermal imager rangers
  5. Determine the distance to spot accuracy on infrared thermometers.

 

Want this amazing Fluke innovation? Get this device only at Presidium.PH! We are an authorized distributor of Fluke test tools in the Philippines. Let us be your reliable partner for reliable test tools. Contact us at +63 2 464 9339 NOW FOR A SPECIAL DISCOUNT!

 

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The Dual Impedance of Digital Multimeters

There are numerous digital multimeters that offer several features to make electrical measurement easier, safer, and more reliable. However, there are still factors that need to be considered when measuring electricity and voltages. Most digital multimeters such as the Fluke 114, 116, and 117 series are capable of having a dual impedance in order to solve common electrical measurement complications. To have further understanding, we are here to discuss the basic features and uses of dual impedance.

Impedance Basics

 

Nowadays, digital multimeters that are being used for testing industrial, electrical, and electronic systems have high impedance input circuits. Basically, this means that when the DMM is placed across a circuit for a measurement, it will have little impact on circuit performance. This is the desired effect for most voltage measurement applications and is especially important for sensitive electronics or control circuits.

 

However, older troubleshooting tools such as analog multimeters generally have low impedance input circuitry. This limits their performance and is only used for testing power circuits or other circuits where the low impedance will not negatively impact or alter circuit performance.

What About It?

 

As a means of safety and accurate results, dual impedance meters provide technicians the ability to safely troubleshoot sensitive electronic or control circuits as well as circuits that may contain ghost voltages, and can more reliably determine whether a voltage is present on a circuit.

 

On the Fluke 114, 116 and 117 DMMs, the meter’s regular Vac and Vdc switch positions are high impedance. These switch positions are mostly used for troubleshooting scenarios and sensitive electronic loads.

 

The Fluke low impedance function (Auto-V/LoZ) Auto-V reduces the possibility of false readings due to ghost voltages and improves accuracy when testing to determine the absence or presence of voltage. Use the Auto-V/LoZ switch position on the DMM when readings are suspect (ghost voltages may be present) or when testing for the presence of voltage.

Ghost Voltages

 

In order to understand more what dual impedance, do to electrical measurement processes, Ghost voltages must be carefully identified and explained. These voltages occur from having energized circuits and non-energized wiring located in close proximity to each other, such as in the same conduit or raceway. This condition forms a capacitor and allows capacitive coupling between the energized wiring and the adjacent unused wiring.

 

The most common places to encounter ghost voltages are blown fuses in distribution panels, unused cable runs or electrical wiring in existing conduit. Some amount of ghost voltage can be coupled from the hot side to the open side across the blown fuse. When facilities or buildings are built and wired, it’s very common for electricians to pull extra wire through the conduit for future use.

Absence or presence of voltage testing

 

Traditionally most electricians and plant maintenance professionals used some form of solenoid tester to determine whether circuits were energized or not. Because of their low impedance circuit, solenoid testers are not fooled by ghost voltage.

 

These testers did their job back in the day but they rarely comply with the current IEC 61010 safety standards and current North American regulatory requirements. But with a dual impedance meter that has Auto-V/LoZ function, leads are placed on an open circuit that contains a ghost voltage. The low input impedance will cause the ghost voltage to dissipate and the meter will display a reading near zero volts indicating no voltage present.

 

Given the variety and complexity of measurement and testing requirements found in most facilities today, a meter with a dual impedance input offers the troubleshooter or technician more flexibility to cover applications or measurement needs ranging from basic voltage testing to troubleshooting sensitive electronic circuits. Having a trusted voltage detector helps increase efficiency and adds an additional safety check for technicians, Presidium is your top choice to bring you that efficient voltage detector. As the authorized distributor of Fluke products in the country, we are committed to providing the best measurement tools, especially those that are equipped with high-quality dual impedance input.

 

For more information, you can contact us at +632-464-9339 or visit our website at www.presidium.ph

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How Fluke ii900 Saved a Manufacturer’s Business

One of the world’s most prominent aftermarket manufacturer was interviewed regarding air leaks. This company design, craft, and markets its products under famous brands. They widely use compressed air to run equipment in their plant.

Controlling Energy Waste

 

Air leaks lead to wasted energy by causing the equipment that is run by compressed air to work harder. Older equipment that is stored in the plant increases the probability of air leaks. Leak detection activities are done after hours as hearing air leaks is difficult especially in a noisy environment.

 

They wait for the building to fall quiet, usually on during off-shift and maintenance shutdown to listen to air leaks. They also spray soapy water to areas they think have a leak and observe if there will be bubbles.

 

They also use other methods such as using ultrasonic leak detector. It requires a certain time and a highly trained professional. Small leaks aren’t very audible to the human ear and are sometimes located in a difficult to access area.

 

Fluke approached the said manufacturer to encourage them to try  Fluke ii900 Sonic Industrial Imager. This equipment can locate a leak even from 50 feet away in a noisy environment.

 

The maintenance lead and maintenance technician alternating throughout 8 hours of scanning the entire plant of leaks. At the end of their procedure, they found an overall of 143 leaks both big and small.

 

They verified the leaks the equipment has prompted by spraying the said areas with soapy waters. And true enough, the tool was right.

Fluke ii900’s ability to find leaks in hard to search places pleased the maintenance manager.

 

The Fluke ii900 Sonic Industrial Imager has a built-in acoustic array of tiny sensitive microphones that generates a spectrum of decibel levels per frequency. An algorithm then calculates a sound image known as SoundMap that is superimposed on a visual image. The SoundMap can filter out background noise because it automatically adapts depending on the frequency selected. It is updated on screen 10-20 times per second.

 

The maintenance manager commended that Fluke is very user-friendly that you can just pick it up and walk down the aisles scanning for leaks. Not only does it save time but it also saves labor and energy cost.

 

Want to have a success story just like this businessman? Get the right Fluke test instruments for your needs now! Don’t miss the chance of getting a SPECIAL DISCOUNT when you avail this device only at Presidium.PH! We are an authorized distributor of Fluke instruments in the Philippines. Let us be your reliable partner for reliable instruments. Contact us now at +63 2 464 9339!

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All About Vibration Testing with Fluke 810

The most innovative troubleshooting tool for mechanical maintenance teams, the Fluke 810 Vibration Tester is the perfect tool to quickly identify mechanical problems. Equipped with unique diagnostic technology, Fluke 810 lets you be on top and in control of unplanned downtime, prevent recurring problems and manage your resources, thus putting the expertise of a vibration analyst in your hands.

Among its key features are:

  • On-board identification and location of the most common mechanical faults (bearings, misalignment, unbalance, looseness) focus maintenance efforts on the root cause, reducing unplanned downtime
  • Fluke 810’s overall vibration level allows you to quickly assess overall machine health directly from the diagnosis screen
  • Fault severity scale with four severity levels helps you prioritize maintenance work
  • Repair recommendations advise technicians on corrective action
  • Detailed diagnostic reports and spectral diagrams help confirm data quality and narrow down the root cause of failures
  • On-board context sensitive help provides real-time tips and guidance to new users
  • Flexible machine speed configurations give the ability to test a broad range of assets including belt drives, gearboxes, and bevel gears
  • 2 GB expandable on-board memory provides enough space for your machinery’s data
  • Self-test function ensures optimal performance and more time on the job
  • Laser tachometer for accurate machine running speed promotes confident diagnosis
  • Tri-axial accelerometer reduces measurement time by 2/3 over single axis accelerometers
  • Viewer PC Software expands data storage and tracking capacity

Let Fluke 810 help your mechanical team with:

  • Troubleshooting problem equipment and understanding the root cause of failure
  • Survey equipment before and after planned maintenance and confirm the repair
  • Commission new equipment and ensure proper installation
  • Provide quantifiable proof of equipment condition and drive investment in repair or replacement
  • Prioritize and plan repair activities and operate more efficiently
  • Anticipate equipment failures before they happen and take control of spare parts inventories
  • Train new or less-experienced technicians and build confidence and skills across the team

 

Give your team the advantage in addressing mechanical problems with a powerful diagnostic tool like Fluke 810! With its simple step-by-step process that report specific machine faults and severity, Fluke 810 equips technicians with the ability to quickly assess your machine’s overall state, giving you the confidence you need in addressing critical problems to keep your facility, team and work ahead of the game.

 

GET A SPECIAL DISCOUNT when you avail this device only at Presidium.PH! We are an authorized distributor of Fluke test instruments in the Philippines. Let us be your reliable partner for reliable instruments. Contact us now at +63 2 464 9339!

 

 

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