Fluke Corporation has introduced the 1623-2 and 1625-2 earth ground testers with advanced features and accessories that speed verification of a reliable connection to earth for grounded electrical systems, helping solve power quality problems and lowering the risk of shock to users. New world-class accessory reels can save up to 50 per cent of set up and tear down time compared to existing wire reels.

Studies have shown that as much as 15 per cent of utility-based power quality problems are related to poor earth grounding. Fluke’s new earth ground testers identify poorly grounded systems, helping increase uptime.

The new earth ground testers help engineers and electricians meet electrical codes, engineering standards, and local regulations to ensure that in the event of a lightning strike or utility overvoltage current will find a safe path to earth. They perform all four types of earth ground measurements: 3- and 4-pole fall-of-potential, 4-pole soil resistivity, selective testing, and stakeless testing.

“Fluke is always keen to update its technology to make the work of our customers safer, faster and more efficient. The New Earth Ground Testers are advanced in terms of delivering more accurate measurements; storing more information, and lowering the risk accidents resulting from electrical mishaps,” said Steve Hood, general manager, Fluke Middle East, Africa and Turkey.

The advanced testers feature USB connectivity for easy storage of up to 1,500 records with time stamp, and fast downloading of measurements, eliminating the need for manual data transfer. Their large displays make it easy to read measurements in any environment.

New accessories include heavy-duty stakes that can be hammered into hard ground, colour-coded wires to reduce errors, and a professional, rugged carrying case speed.

The 1625-2 model has advanced features, including automatic frequency control (AFC), which identifies existing interference and chooses a measurement frequency to provide more accurate values; R measurement, which calculates earth ground impedance with 55 Hz to more accurately reflect the resistance that a fault-to-earth ground would experience; adjustable limits for quicker testing; and battery level status on the display.

The 1623-2 and 1625-2 may be purchased as standalone testers or in kits that include test leads, clamps, batteries, EG stakes, cable reels, and carrying case. Optional accessories include a 320 mm (12.7 inch) split core transformer for performing selective testing on individual tower legs.