Resistor across L-N in an adapter box. Possible or asking for trouble?

Gurnatronics · Mar 6, 2023

If I place say an 80 Ω resistor across L-N, would that generate a load of approx 2.8A.

I’m looking to create an artificial load of a socket circuit so I can locate the current at the DB using a clamp meter.

Used to use plug in 3kW heaters but not an option anymore, also definitely not able to isolate the power to test.

Thanks in advanced!!

DPG · Mar 6, 2023

Gurnatronics said:
Forgive me if I sound stupid, but isn’t power dissipation a side effect of lower efficiency… ie heat losses?

Sort of, yes. It's got a very close relationship with voltage and curre t though.

Gurnatronics · Mar 6, 2023

DPG said:
Sort of, yes. It's got a very close relationship with voltage and curre t though.

So p=iv
I=v/r
I=230/80
I=2.875

P=2.875*230
P= 661.25W?

Heat sink sandwich then

DPG · Mar 6, 2023

Gurnatronics said:
So p=iv
I=v/r
I=230/80
I=2.875
P=2.875*230
P= 661.25W?

Heat sink sandwich then

That sounds more like the figure I roughly calculated yes.

Yeah, you could warm your dinner up with it

Gurnatronics · Mar 6, 2023

DPG said:
That sounds more like the figure I roughly calculated yes.

Yeah, you could warm your dinner up with it

Legend thank you kindly

Gurnatronics · Mar 6, 2023

littlespark said:
I’m going to get one of those for that stately home testing job coming up.

Oooof good luck!

grumpyjohn01 · Mar 6, 2023

littlespark said:
I’m going to get one of those for that stately home testing job coming up.

I've got the 'socket & see' one ,originally acquired for a hospital testing job. As Sparkychick says they are not an exact science but the longer you scan for they reckon to filter out the weaker signals and eventually you are left with the right one. In my experience with a few other clues and your 'supersparky senses' you can usually get there in the end. Not so much of a problem if you can isolate to confirm but a bit more nerve-wracking in a medical environment..!