Test instrument trial??

[alexknight0602]

Im looking to purchase my first test instrument and most probably a multifunction test instrument. Obviously a big money investment so i was wondering if anyone was aware of trialling or testing a test instrument before purchasing? My first instinct is probably not, but you dont know if you don't ask! I used a Megger at college, but was also interested in the Fluke ones.

 

[shanky887614]

you can hire them

 

[amo]

What kind of testing will you be doing? Domestic, industrial, Commercial, single or 3 phase. Check reviews online and try YouTube. Ask some people in the trade as well. You will find a big difference between the sparks as it comes down to how many features you want and ease of use.

 

[alexknight0602]

Starting domestic/single phase so being able to fill out the testing and inspection certs.

 

[amo]

The fluke range is good. The 1651 is the most basic. Best if you are just sticking to domestic single phase. The 1652, 53, and 54 have more advanced features and value storage capabilities. You can download the manuals online for a better look. If you like it you can always hire it out for the week.

 

[alexknight0602]

Have also been looking at the Metrel instruments. Is software really necessary? Is the earth resistance test function for earth electrode testing and measuring?

Thanks for the advice so far!

 

[Richard Burns]

I have a Metrel and I think it is great for domestic work.
Has all the testing functions you want (very unlikely to need a earth resistance tester for domestic) and you can use the download software if you want but I do not see the point.
The rechargeable batteries are very handy.

I assume you have looked at the tester comparisons and reveiews in the sticky threads of this sub forum?
Might help you out a bit.

 

[alexknight0602]

Yep have been checking out the sticky threads and the tables on the test meter website. Is the earth resistance tester not used for earth electrode test on a TT system?

 

[Richard Burns]

For a basic domestic TT system you can just test the earth fault loop impedance, this will be equal to the earth electrode resistance within a few tenths of an ohm, you only need to test actual electrode resistance if you need a decent earth for high voltage and large sites where accuracy is critical.

 

[stranded]

I'm aware that there may very well be businesses that let you hire test equipment. Give a few a try maybe and see what you think. Think its maybe something like £60 p/w.

 

[telectrix]

gbo for a 2nd hand megger 1552 or 1553, can't go wrong, rugged and easy to use, all the functions you'll need. if buying from ebay, make sure it's calibrated.

 

[timbobelfast]

Get the best one you can afford. I have a Fluke and a Metrel which is my back up. Fluke's are the mutz nutz.

 

[alexknight0602]

Would I come across "B" type RCD's? Where are they used?

 

[telectrix]

don't follow you. do you mean b type RCBOs? the a,b,or c refers to the ocp part of an RCBO

 

[Former Sponsor TM]

There are only a couple of MFT's on the market that will test 'B' Type RCDs (not to be confused with B6, B16, B20, B32A RCBO's....)

B type RCDs are recommended for use with drives and inverters for supplying motors for pumps, lifts, textile machines, machine tools etc., since they recognize a continuous fault current with a low level ripple.