5 Best Tools for Solar Power Maintenance

What are solar powers?

When we hear about solar power or solar energy, the first thing that comes into our minds is the sun. In simple forms, it only means that something is being powered by the sun. And this does not only apply to minimal things, but it powers homes and establishments as well. Through the years, solar power has grown into a fascination for its powerful capacity to bring things to life through the sun.

So how do they do it? It is all because of the “photovoltaic effect”. You see, these solar panels are built with layers of silicone cells. Let us take a closer look at silicones. Silicones are nonmetals with conductive properties that allow them to absorb and convert sunlight into usable electricity. Therefore, when sunlight hits these silicone-infused panels, it will allow electrons to be set in motion creating a flow of electric current.

Why does a solar power plant need maintenance?

Let us make buying a car an example. Buying automobiles is a huge investment. More so because they do not usually come cheap. This leads us to the question, do you usually have your car checked, or do you just dismiss the sketchy sounds it makes over time?

Therefore regular maintenance checks are important because it makes certain that the product is working well. Such minimal sounds will lead to disastrous effects in the long run. Additionally, all things need to be maintained to function well. And this does not only apply to cars and solar power plants. It transcends to other things as well.

General maintenance checks for solar power plants:

  • Make sure that there are no loose hanging wires in the array.
  • Be sure that electrical enclosures are accessible only to authorized personnel.
  • Make sure that there is no clogging or water pooling.
  • Drainages surrounding the power plant must be adequate.
  • Be certain that there are no ground erosions on the base of the ground mount system.
  • Inverter pads should be debris-free.
  • Be wary of animal infestation.

Fluke tools to maintain Solar Power Plants

A solar power plant’s purpose is to literally soak up sunlight. However, we cannot dismiss the harsh effects this may take on the panels in the long run. These Fluke Test Tools are the best maintenance tools in the market. Not only do they sport user-friendly features, but these devices are known to give you solutions to your machine’s shortcomings. Additionally, they have a solidified reputation of being durable, rugged, and reliable among other maintenance tools in the market.

Fluke Battery Analyzers for Solar Power Plant Maintenance

It is a given that solar energy comes from the sun. However, some solar panels are boosted by batteries. Mostly, they are powered by lithium batteries that can last up to 15 years. Additionally, these batteries are a known key component of every solar power plant. Therefore, regular maintenance of the batteries proves to be of utmost importance.

With the use of battery analyzers, these devices can make checkups or perform troubleshoot testing on stationary batteries and battery banks of all types.

Features of good battery analyzers:

  • Can take measurements of internal battery resistance, DC and AC currents, and temperature readings.
  • Has sequence measurement mode that can automatically or manually test a sequence of battery strings.
  • A good thing to have for battery analyzers is comprehensive logging. This will allow you to review data and have it downloaded for on-the-go data

Battery Analyzers

The Fluke BT500 Battery Analyzer actually has all of these qualities and more. They carry a broad range of battery analyzer functions from resistance tests to full condition testing. This device uses an automated string function testing and a test probe integrated infra-red temperature measurement system.

Fluke Insulation Testers for Solar Power Maintenance

A handy device to keep inside your toolbox. Insulation testers have multiple functions that can help solar operations and maintenance professionals find answers in regard to the machine’s health. Fluke insulation testers can determine power quality failures and perform spot checks. Furthermore, switchgear, conductors, and cables can also be saturated by this device.

Ideal features of an insulation tester include:

  • Automatic power off to save battery
  • Live circuit detection prevents insulation tests if voltage > 30 V is detected for added user protection.
  • Auto-discharge of capacitive voltage for added user protection

Insulation testers

The Fluke 1577 Insulation Multimeters are ideal for testing high-voltage equipment. It features superb features such as a magnetic hanging system that lets you work freehand and tend to other work. Furthermore, have the confidence of bringing it anytime anywhere since it sports rugged features and a hard case.

Fluke Clamp Meters for Solar Power Maintenance

Fluke clamp meters are known to be one of the best troubleshooting tools in the market. Clamp meters such as the Fluke 323 True RMS Clamp Meter can be used for RMS measurements, optimized ergonomics, and it sports a large display for efficient troubleshooting. Moreover, it provides a wide variety in terms of function and uses. Feel confident to verify the presence of load current and AC voltage. Additionally, Fluke clamp meters can also measure the continuity of circuits, switches, fuses, and contacts.

clamp meters

Features of a reliable clamp meter include:

  • Rugged, reliable basic True-RMS clamp meter for measuring current up to 400 A
  • Measures AC current to 400 A
  • Measures AC voltage and DC voltage to 600 V
  • Provides True RMS AC voltage and current for accurate measurements on non-linear signals
  • Measures resistance to 4 kΩ with continuity detection

Fluke Digital Multimeters for Solar Power Maintenance

Solar power maintenance requires numerous electrical measurements. Therefore, using a Fluke Digital Multimeter is one of the most probable solutions to perform the best maintenance checks. Furthermore, these kinds of projects require a tool that can measure AC and DC voltages. Therefore a digital multimeter is one of the ideal choices when troubleshooting solar power maintenance. This device can do voltage detection, installation, and troubleshooting of the combiner box and inverter.

Look for the following features in a digital multimeter:

  • Features a compact ergonomic design for one-handed operation
  • Comes with a holster with probe holders for easy storage
  • Features manual and automatic ranging
  • Min/Max/Average to record signal fluctuations

Fluke Infrared Thermometers for Solar Power Maintenance

Sun and electricity are the key components when powering solar power plants.. This is one of the reasons why an Infrared Thermometer must be included in your solar operation and maintenance professional’s toolbox. Devices such as these can be handy when inspecting hotspots on PV modules, electrical panels, and breaker panels.

Helpful Features of Fluke VT04A Visual IR Thermometer:

  • Features PyroBlend Plus optics to provide an excellent field of view for tight spaces and sharp images
  • Provides temperature alarms and automated monitoring to identify intermittent problems overtime or get alerts of a temperature outside the expected range
  • Presents hot and cold markers to instantly identify the hottest and coldest spots within the field of view

Get one of these cutting-edge tools at: https://presidium.ph/

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Buying from Official Fluke Distributors Vs. Buying Secondhand Fluke Tools

Fluke tools are one of the most sought-after electrical maintenance tools in the market. With this said, their reputation of being durable, rugged, and reliable will not falter over time whether you choose to buy pre-owned tools or purchase from official distributors. May we suggest weighing the pros and cons first?

Purchasing from an official Fluke Test Tools distributor.

With technology and abundant resources nowadays, legitimate products can easily be duplicated by unofficial distributors. To ensure the legitimacy of products, it is advisable to get your Fluke products in an official Fluke distributor within your country.

In the Philippines, Presidium PH Corporation is one of the official distributors of Fluke Industrial Group and Fluke Calibration products. From particle counters, multimeters, vibration testers, Fluke calibration tools, and a lot more! This is a one-stop-shop for all your maintenance tool needs.

Now, what are the benefits of purchasing from an official Fluke tools distributor?  Well, one of them is having the convenience of buying in your own country. Additionally, this also entails hassle-free transactions since you don’t need to worry about shipping fees. Moreover, keep your mind at ease with the thought of buying an original product. On the other hand, when buying second-hand tools, you will always have a hint of doubt even if the seller tells you that the product is original.

 

What we have in store…

We are happy to assist you with your maintenance needs by providing high-end tools. As mentioned, Presidium PH Corporation has a wide variety of Fluke Test Tools, here are some of the best maintenance tools of Fluke…

Buying Fluke second-hand tools.

You can practically find used equipment by simply searching online. However, you must also know the risks of buying secondhand tools. Here are some of the things you would want to consider before buying pre-owned Fluke tools.

  • You would not completely know how old the tool is.
  • You will not know how the Fluke tool has been used. It might have been saturated in a stressful environment before they decided to sell it.
  • Moreover, you may not know how and when the instrument was calibrated.
  • If there were repairs made to the device (whether the repairs were done correctly), you would not know it.
  • When buying pre-owned Fluke tools, you would not know if the device still continued or has been discontinued.
  • Used Fluke tools do not come with manuals.
  • Secondhand Fluke tools do not come with warranties.

What makes Fluke Tools the best purchase?

Fluke Test Tools are a certified good investment. Why? It can literally give you the solutions to your machine problems by simply attaching these tools to the machinery. Some Fluke tools do not even need to be attached since they can do readings from afar. Cool right? Moreover, if you are running an establishment or planning on building one, consider investing in Fluke tools since these devices will take care of your establishment in the long run. Ultimately, maintenance professionals favor these tools because not only does it sport great features, but it also showcases user-friendly functions.

Make one your very own! Get your Fluke tools now at Presidium PH: https://presidium.ph/

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What Are the Best Fluke Troubleshooting Tools?

Every preservation team will undoubtedly feel like a professional electrician or a maintenance expert with the best Fluke troubleshooting tools in their back pocket. We are talking about the leading test tools in the market. These tools will ensure effortless documentation of common electrical issues in HVAC, networks, motors, and electrical panels.

Troubleshooting with Fluke Thermal Cameras

Identify the root cause of motor problems with Fluke’s Thermal Cameras. It can read problems in advance which makes it a useful tool for preventive maintenance. Fluke Thermal Cameras’ star feature is showing the machine’s motor condition by detecting its heat signatures. Moreover, in terms of usage, Fluke Thermal Cameras provide security for the maintenance person who is in use.

Safety of using Fluke Thermal Cameras:

  • Prevent getting risky with electricity – This tool can read far without having to touch the electrical equipment. In addition, thermal cameras can measure motors without opening any electric panels. Definitely a far cry from being at risk with electricity.
  • Stay safe from flammable areas – Using a thermal imager with a telephoto lens can let you stand farther away from the equipment in a potentially explosive environment and still get the detail you need.
  • Be confident with inspections – The long-distance capabilities of an infrared camera with a telephoto and/or wide-angle lens can also allow you to scan a lot of ceiling, roof, or wall areas from the ground.

 

The Fluke PTi120 Pocket Thermal Camera lets you automatically organize and file thermal images with Fluke connect. Also, this device can measure data to the pixel with 120×90 infrared resolution. Enjoy its easy navigation with its touchscreen features that can further benefit troubleshooting. In addition, it can do quick scans of  electrical equipment, machinery, and other assets. Finally, it sports lightweight features so feel free to carry it around in your pocket!

 

Troubleshooting with Fluke Vibration Testers

Vibration Testers have the power to anticipate mechanical failures in advance. It is a given that such motors and drives do not come cheap. Therefore, when motor deficiencies pop up, they come at a more expensive price. Additionally, these motors have the tendency to have shaft imbalance, looseness, misalignment, and to bear water. Such issues as these will cause catastrophic effects for the machine when not caught immediately.

 

Other causes that contribute to the motor or mechanical decay:

  • Motors can easily decay when the temperature is not right. Therefore, they should be placed in an even environment. Not too humid, not too cold.
  • Machines are sensitive to dust and other contaminants.
  • They are prone to power surges.
  • Moisture and humidity can shorten a motor’s life.
  • Make sure to lubricate your motor regularly.

 

Fluke 810 Vibration Tester allows you to…

  • Understand and pinpoint the root cause of the problem.
  • Anticipate equipment failure.
  • Identify the most common mechanical faults.
  • Provides detailed diagnostic reports. This will help in narrowing down the root cause of failures.
  • Let us save your machine’s data with 2GB of expandable memory.

 

Troubleshooting with Fluke Multimeters

With its well-known reputation for being rugged and reliable, Fluke Multimeters will be able to take on any environment. Moreover, the Fluke 179 True-RMS Digital Multimeter is the industry-standard troubleshooting device used by seasoned technicians everywhere. It sports navigation ease and provides solutions to maintenance professionals.

 

Fluke Multimeters will allow maintenance professionals to:

  • Accurately get voltage readings and current readings when measuring complicated AC signals.
  • Easily detect malfunctioning signals through a graph presentation.
  • Conveniently take temperature readings with a built-in thermometer.
  • Fluke is easy to use and can be used even in the most rugged environments.

 

Troubleshooting with Infrared Thermometers

Infrared thermometers (like the Fluke 64 MAX) are perfect for troubleshooting malfunctioning HVAC systems. These are machines that deal with heaving, ventilation, and air conditioning. In addition, such mechanical systems are bound to make unusual sounds, and this indicates that deficiencies are about to take place. However, with the use of Infrared Thermometers, maintenance professionals will be able to prevent drastic measures from happening.

It will be helpful for maintenance professionals to determine the “hot spots” in electrical equipment and do temperature checks from afar. Furthermore, this high-end device can identify problems in electrical switchgear. That’s not all, this high end device can also detect leaks and has the ability to monitor and measure massive machines and rotating motor equipment. In addition, with its ability to take temperatures from afar, maintenance professionals won’t have any trouble measuring hot and cold areas in high ceilings, air temperature discharge, and troubleshooting air ducts.

Morover, this device will allow you to do regular maintenance checks on every HVAC equipment and motors all throughout your facility. Finally, if such instances occur when the device captures discrepancies, then it might be time to call in a specialist.

 

Best features of Fluke 64 Max:

  • Precise laser technology for more accurate and repeatable measurements.
  • Easy-to-read backlit LCD display for easy viewing even in dark environments.
  • IP54 rated for extra protection against airborne contaminants.
  • 30-hour battery life
  • Displays the minimum, maximum, or average temperature.
  • Small and lightweight design fits easily into your toolbox.

 

Troubleshooting with Fluke Oscilloscopes

Troubleshooting has never been simplified with Oscilloscopes. These devices were originally designed for engineering and troubleshooting systems that contain complex signals. Moreover, unlike other troubleshooting tools, Oscilloscopes can measure engines much faster. In addition, they also have wider measurement bandwidths than multimeters. One of the advantages that Oscilloscopes have is a built-in multimeter such as the Fluke 120B Series Industrial ScopeMeter Hand-Held Oscilloscopes.

 

Benefits of using an Oscilloscope:

  • They can display, read, and measure complex signals.
  • Can graphically show distortion and noise that may be present in the signal.
  • Can be line powered or battery powered.
  • Will be able to save or recall data and instrument setups.
  • Contains an adaptor connected to an internal USB port to wirelessly transfer information to the PC, laptop, or Fluke Connect mobile app.

 

Get one of these Fluke Troubleshooting Tools at Presidium PH! Not only can you shop for Fluke Infrared Cameras, Fluke Thermal Cameras, Fluke Oscilloscopes, Fluke Vibration Testers, and Fluke Multimeters, but you will also be buying them from the official distributor of Fluke products in the Philippines. Get yours now!

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