Ever imagined how capacitive voltage sensors work?

AC voltage detectors’ functions are based on the principle of capacitive coupling. According to Fluke, to understand this, let’s return momentarily to the 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, AC current will flow through as the electrons are alternately attracted or repelled by the voltage on the opposite plate. The AC circuit can still be complete even without the occurrence of a hard-wired circuit connection. Given that the electrical field inside the capacitor, between the two plates, is what completes the AC circuit.

We are simply missing the fact that our world is full of small stray capacitors with the thinking that these are just individual circuit components functioning 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 small AC current as it becomes 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 using 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. AC current will manage to flow because of the 120 V across the series combination. (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 Calibration and Industrial Group, check out the other blogs for Presidium.PH now!

Every trade has its own set of equipment. While many manual professions use standard tools like screwdrivers, pliers, and drills, specialized occupations like electricians need more advanced tools tailored for the job. Even the most skilled electricians depend on these tools to do their jobs properly and more effectively.

Today they face more challenges due to technological advances of electrical equipment and circuits, though these were made to make work easier, more training is now needed for its proper utilization. These advances require a higher skill level for those who would be using them, as well as more advanced testing procedures. Enough knowledge and understanding of proper test equipment use will be beneficial in handling testing and troubleshooting issues. One of the most commonly used equipment by electricians and technicians for similar situations is the clamp meter.

What is a Clamp Meter?

A clamp meter is an energy management tool that combines a voltmeter with a clamp-type current meter. In analogy, it is basically a current-measuring tool with some voltage abilities. The clamp meter was created primarily as a single purpose test tool for electricians; however, today’s modern models have integrated more measurement functions, accuracy, and other special features.

Advantages of Using a Clamp Meter

When it comes to testing plants or all sorts of machinery, an electrical tester like the clamp meter is the best choice. One of the advantages of using a clamp meter over digital multimeters is that you can measure the electric current passing through a device without breaking any circuits.

Effective troubleshooting often requires two readers – one to measure voltage, and the other to measure electrical current. Most electricians consider a clamp meter to be one of the most versatile diagnostic tools as it can do both.

Choosing the Right Clamp Meter

There are a few factors to consider when buying a clamp meter. Apart from looking at its specifications, one should also consider its features, functions, and overall quality of the production of the device.

Obviously, User Safety proves to be a necessity given that this profession handles many hazards. The device must adhere to the latest electrical standards and should be certified by testing labs such as UL, CSA, and VDE among others. Certifications assure you that the electrical tester meets all safety standards.

Given the nature of where the device will be used, a clamp meter must also be able to withstand tough conditions. The tool needs to be reliable. Luckily, the Fluke Clamp Meters are carefully designed to be electrically and mechanically robust. By the time they’re ready to be used, you’ll be sure they’ve undergone rigorous testing and evaluation.

If you are looking the best source for clamp meters, you may check out www.presidium.ph. Presidium is the official distributor of Fluke products here in the Philippines. Contact us at +63 2 464 9339 or email us at info@presidium.ph!

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

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

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

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

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

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

To perform the test:

Setup

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

Rising pressure

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

Falling pressure

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

Calculation

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

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

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

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

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

Electrical Systems

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

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

Electromechanical Systems

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

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

Process Operations

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

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

Building Diagnostics

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

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

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

Machine failure don’t just happen in an instant. Most machine failures – whether its electrical, mechanical, process, or electronic- begins with a significant increase in operating temperature even before the problem occurs. Machine failure is usually like running out of your battery car. There’s no way to tell when you will run out of battery, one day your car just won’t start. Fortunately for machineries, there are devices that can detect and determine if there is an unusual heat activity that can possibly cause problems to your machine.

An Infrared Thermography can detect infrared energy emitted by an object, converting it to apparent temperature, and displaying the result as an infrared image. Infrared thermography came from the literal meaning “beyond red” (infrared) and “temperature picture” (thermography).

Why get an infrared camera?

An infrared camera allows you to capture thermal images without making direct contact with the equipment. That means you can capture thermal information from operating equipment at a safe distance and have a better chance of seeing temperature anomalies under normal operating conditions. Widely popular infrared cameras capture radiometric thermal images that contain apparent temperature measurements for each pixel within the image. This capability allows you to identify an anomaly and then drill down to calculate the apparent temperate of the points in question.

Big Benefit

The non-contact feature of infrared technology makes it ideal for a wide range of applications where components are moving, very hot, dangerous to contact, difficult to reach, impossible to shut off, or could be contaminated or damaged through contact. Infrared cameras are also helpful in detecting energy or moisture-related issues in a building envelope.

Unlike older thermal imagers that were larger, more expensive, slower, and poorer image resolution, newer versions of thermal imagers perform much better. They are more compact, with ergonomic cameras that are easy and fast to use, and they are much more affordable with high resolution images. With the help of these new thermal imagers, now it is speedier and convenient to conduct inspections and fix machinery issues that you may have overlooked.

If you’re looking for the best-performing thermal imager in the country, Presidium.PH has got it for you. You may reach them at +632 464 9339 or email them at info@presidium.ph.

Thermal imagers, also known as infrared cameras, allow technicians to detect issues before they cause bigger problems or failures. While some equipment present obvious symptoms through unusual vibration or sounds, other electrical problems may only be detected by thermal patterns. It’s important to identify these issues before they lead to equipment failure or serious electrical hazards.

Infrared thermography offers a wide variety of advantages. It can speed up diagnosis, reduce – and possible even avoid – unscheduled downtime, and minimize damage to structure and contents.

Here are the various use of thermal imagers:

• Most types of equipment
• Collecting data in hazardous environments from a safe distance
• Scanning large areas such as walls, ceilings, and roofs quickly
• Gathering data without disrupting production
• Quickly identifying irregularities in specific locations
• Detecting problems before failure

These advantages not only help technicians and contractors, but also produce additional benefits for troubleshooting and preventive and predictive maintenance. Some of these include:

Increased safety

Technicians can inspect areas and equipment from a safe distance. They don’t need to interrupt operations, nor have to climb ladders or use a lift to scan ductwork and high ceilings.

Improved reliability

Reduce unscheduled downtime by attaining more accurate information for easier maintenance and repairs. Easily identify and address the problem before it results in large-scale losses.

Better assurance of repairs

An infrared camera allows technicians to quickly scan repaired components or structural areas to very that a repair was successful, or identify if further repairs are needed.

Successful commissioning of new installations

Infrared thermography can be used to document the condition of new equipment at the time of acceptance. The baseline documentation can be used to verify the manufacturer’s performance specifications or provide a basis for comparison at another time.

Improved production rate and quality

Preventive or predictive maintenance can minimize equipment malfunctions and failures.

Monitor equipment deterioration

Maintain optimum production efficiency by monitoring the condition and characteristics of your equipment with a thermal imager, against predetermined tolerances. This will allow you to repair or replace deteriorating components before they fail completely and potentially cause unplanned downtime.

Invest in a quality thermal imager from Fluke and reap the benefits.

Presidium.PH is an official distributor of Fluke Industrial Group and Fluke Calibration products in the Philippines. For more information, contact Presidium at +632 464 9339.

Every measurement and calibration process undergo strict inspection. It is important to have a precautionary check of every tools that will be used in order to assure the success and safety of the operation. Whenever you are assigned for a large or even small-scale measurement operations, these quick steps can help ensure your measurement device is safe and ready to go.

Use common sense

This is probably one of the most common and important things that you must attain when doing safety checks. Make it a habit to take a closer and detailed look at your equipment and accessories before you begin any operation. Check if it is broken or if there are any shattered parts on your device. It is essential to know every in-and-out of your device to easily determine if it is functional. If you wouldn’t let other people borrow it from you because of its condition, then you shouldn’t use it yourself.

Inspect leads

Electrical measurement operations pose high risk for people who are conducting it. Hence, make sure to perform an inspection on the test leads before using any electrical testing instruments. This is to ensure that the device can safely and accurately conduct electricity for the job at hand. Be sure your leads have minimum exposed metal on the following:

1. • Double insulation.
   • CAT ratings that equal or exceed those of the meter.
   • Finger guards.
   • Shrouded connectors.

Continuity testing

You can use your meter’s own continuity testing function to check for any internal breaks. This ensures that your device is accurately providing results and is not prone to error when the actual operation starts. Try checking test lead resistance by:

1. • Selecting Ω, touching probe tips and being sure the leads are 0.1 – 0.3 Ω.
   • Inserting leads in V/Ω and COM inputs.

Verify correct voltage rating

Make sure that the device meter that you will be using and its accessories are appropriately rated and designed for the system. Whenever you are conducting any electrical measurement, set the voltage at the right meter and verify its rating to ensure accurate results and measurements

Safety checking your equipment before any measurement operation can reduce hazard and ensure that all equipment is ready to go. Whether voltage testers or digital millimetres, a quick safety scan before working can save time and money. To ensure the guaranteed safety of your operation, you also need a trusted provider that can supply you long-lasting calibration and measurement tools.

Presidium.ph Corporation is an official distributor of Fluke Calibration products in the Philippines. Fluke is the world leader in the manufacture and distribution of any electronic test tools. We can assure you that our line of measurement tools are safe and highly functional. You can trust us to bring you the most trusted test tools that can bring you not just accurate results but also safe operations.

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

For electricians and technicians, the power and distribution panels and the nearby wiring systems are the best starting point to troubleshoot electrical disruptions.

The voltage and current are the two most common electrical measurements or details that are usually taken from the panels and surrounding wiring. However, in some scenarios, the technician may also want to test for the continuity or measure peak voltage, peak current, minimum or maximum voltage or current over time, temperature, harmonics, power factor, transient voltage, temperature or even analyse waveforms to isolate specific problems.

The measurements of these factors can be done through the use of the right equipment but with the proper protective gear, of course.

Here are some of the important tools that electricians and technicians usually use for testing various measurements on electrical wiring and panels:

Voltage Testers

This kind of tool is being used to quickly access the presence of voltage. Some advanced and new tools have been also devised to measure voltage without really using test leads. Take Fluke’s T6-600 or T6 – 1000 as examples.

Digital Multimeters

DMMs are called the Swiss Army Knife of measurement tools for nothing. Technically, this versatile and flexible instrument can measure or test voltage, current, resistance, continuity, capacitance, frequency, diodes, duty cycle, and more. Just like the Fluke 87V Industrial Multimeter and Fluke 3000 FC, you can’t go wrong with Fluke’s digital multimeters.

Clamp Meters

Clamp meters are very convenient to use for accessing wirings in tight spaces, panels that are beyond easy reach, and extra-large conductors. Fluke’s top-seller Fluke 381 Remote Display True-RMS AC/DC Clamp Meter with IFlex is your best option for this one, so check it out!

Insulation Testers

You can now quickly find problems on your electrical system by saving and comparing measurements over time on a wireless device. See Fluke 1587 FC Insulation Multimeter for yourself!

Infrared Cameras and Thermometers

Rugged, handheld Infrared non-contact cameras and thermometers quickly measure surface temperatures in hard-to-reach or hazardous areas. Infrared cameras are ideal for quick inspection of electrical panels in order to determine potential problem areas before further testing and troubleshooting. Check out our very own Fluke VT04A Visual IR Thermometer!

Fluke is an internationally-acclaimed and trusted manufacturer of electrical testing tools. In the Philippines, Presidium.PH Corporation is an official distributor of Fluke products. For additional queries, contact Presidium at +632 464 9339 or info@presidium.ph.

It’s inevitable that big machineries lie the ones companies use in manufacturing companies, require a huge amount of power in order for it operate. In a day to day basis, hundreds of thousands of machines are operating so you can just imagine the all that power being consumed in a certain location. It’s taken a lot of research and developments, but there is actually a way to consume less or good power quality.

Good Power Quality is defined as a steady supply voltage that stays within a prescribed range, steady frequency close to the rated value, and smooth voltage curve waveform. There are devices that are able to measure the quality of power used, and these devices can also optimize the productivity of the power used. But what is the importance in doing all of this? Let’s find out.

The consequences of poor power quality, such as power factor and harmonics, can not only be a direct hit on the bottom line because of surcharges by local utilities, but also because dirty power can cripple crucial equipment and lead to downtime.

Origins of most power problems inside facilities.

• Installation – improper grounding or routing of wires, or undersized distribution.
• Operation – equipment is being operated outside design perimeters.
• Mitigation – improper shielding or lack of power factor correction
• Maintenance – deteriorated cable insulation

Even though a machine has been properly installed, it can still later on show multiple issues and problems as it is constantly being used and the machine itself ages as well. Moreover, power issues can also come for external factors such as unpredictable outages, voltage sags, and power surges.

Even though there is a cost associated with power quality, it is still important that you invest in the right tools and devices that will help you control the power that is running through your machines. Because if not, it may easily destroy your machines, and that will be a much bigger cost.

Fluke power quality and energy tools, including single-phase and three-phase loggers and analyzers, are designed for industrial and commercial applications to measure power quality and quantify those associated costs.

For inquiries, you may message https://presidium.ph/contact-us/ or contact us at (02) 464 9339