Sparks Electrical News March 2016

TOOLS OF THE TRADE

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SAFETY COMPLIANCE TESTER REDUCES THE RISK OF SHOCK AND ARC FLASH COMTEST, local distributor of Fluke test and measure- ment tools, has introduced a unique tester to market that sources both ac and dc steady-state voltage for Hi-Z and Lo-Z instruments, thus simplifying safety compliance testing. and the use of a known high-energy voltage source for test instrument verification. To avoid accidental contact, the voltage is supplied through recessed contacts that are activated only when test probes are inserted into the modules insulated access points. A single LED indicates the sourcing of the voltage to verify the test tool, simplify- ing test tool verification without the need for PPE.

POCKET-SIZED INFRARED TROUBLE- SHOOTER The pocket-sized PRV240 sources 240 V of both ac and dc steady-state voltage for testing of both high- and low-impedance multimeters, clamp meters, and two-pole testers, eliminat- ing both the need for multiple verification tools The new Fluke PRV240 Proving Unit provides a safe and convenient method for ‘test before touch’ TBT veri- fication of electrical test tools without placing the electri- cian or technician in potentially hazardous electrical envi- ronments, which would generally involve using known live voltage sources. In contrast to using a known live source, using the PRV240 does not require personal protective equipment (PPE) for tester verification. Use of the PRV240 reduces the risk of shock and arc flash compared to verification of test instru- ments on high-energy sources in potentially hazardous electrical environments because the PRV240 provides a known voltage in a con- trolled, low-current state in accordance with safe work practices.

The proving unit can perform up to 5 000 tests per set of four AA batteries and comes with a TPAK magnetic hanging strap for easy accessibility.

Enquiries: +27 10 595 1821

THERMAL imaging has become essential tech- nology for diagnosing mechanical and electrical faults and also for spotting energy loss and other building problems. Not every application, how- ever, needs to be pursued with a fully featured infrared camera and this is why FLIR Systems has introduced its new TG130. Reasonably priced, this new spot thermal camera features the FLIR Lepton core that is the size of a smart phone SIM card. This makes the new TG130 lightweight, ergonomic and pocket portable so it is always available for instant troubleshooting. Simply aim the instrument at a target object or surface to measure the tem- perature, click the trigger to freeze and view the image. The FLIR TG130 is ideal for spotting thermal anomalies which can then be flagged for more detailed thermal inspection. The same unit can be used for looking at heat loss, bad electrical connections, HVAC performance and source wa- ter leaks. It’s a good toolbox instrument for any- one involved in plant or facilities maintenance.

Enquiries: +27 78 706 9532

SPARKS ELECTRICAL NEWS

MARCH 2016