[ Spotlight: Testing ]
is in commercial installations and solar PV farms. Contractors are finding systems with strings of 20 or more modules difficult to test, mainly due to the limitations of their test equipment and the inability to measure in excess of 600V DC voltage open circuit (VOC). We have therefore seen an increase in sales of equipment that is able to measure 1000V DC, and I think this will continue.’
Features and benefits Today’s instruments are designed with ease of use in mind, and features that were once only found on premium products – such as backlit displays that are easy to read under any conditions, clearly marked buttons and non-slip materials – are now commonplace. Most modern testers also have embedded firmware and features such as Bluetooth, which allows the wireless connection of barcode scanners, label printers and other accessories. New testing techniques do not appear that often, so the introduction of a two-wire no-trip loop test on the Megger MFT1700 series multifunction tester was particularly noteworthy. Giving the contractor two-handed operation – as well as the ability to undertake testing at the switch on of lighting circuits – has introduced significant time-saving capability. Manufacturers also have to adapt to changes to standards and, in order to conform to BS EN 61243- 3:2010, voltage indicators like the Martindale Electric VI-13800 must illuminate at 50V. Robust construction is another major feature of modern designs, and it is important to use a sturdy product. Depending on the type of work carried out, an ingress protection rating – usually IP54 – is also beneficial, as it confirms that the product will be unaffected by water sprayed from all directions, including exposure to rain.
Certificate of merit Certification is a necessary part of any electrical installation, as it provides a statement to the client that the work carried out complies with BS 7671. Most multifunction testers carry out the required
circuit tests and display test readings for manual transfer onto the test certificate. Some, however, allow readings to be recorded on a PDA and transferred to a desktop application for certificate printing. Others can even be connected to smartphone and portable laptop applications, which work in the same way, by gathering test data collected in the field that is then transferred to a master certificate. Some test equipment manufacturers have gone
one step further and built 17th Edition certificates into the test equipment so that details can be recorded during the process. Test data is automatically entered into the correct certificate fields as testing is undertaken, and can be validated on-site without the need for repeat visits. Test results have become particularly important for
PAT. Seaward’s Jim Wallace explains: ‘Although there is no requirement in the Electricity at Work Regulations
December 2013 ECA Today 51
Any contractor whose work involves
carrying out tests on mains circuits must, therefore, use an instrument that is fit for purpose
1989 (EAWR) to keep records of equipment and of inspections and tests, the HSE Memorandum of Guidance (HSR25) advises that records of maintenance, including test results, should be kept throughout the working life of equipment.’
Performance art In order to ensure optimal performance and product longevity, test instruments much be regularly calibrated. Tony Kumeta of Ideal Industries, explains: ‘Most
manufacturers specify regular maintenance and recalibration at least every 12 months. Calibration ensures the accuracy of test equipment and should be part of any contractor’s quality procedure. The process usually involves sending the equipment away to a laboratory and it is highly advisable to make sure this is done, especially when working in applications where the inaccuracy of a non- calibrated piece of test equipment could jeopardise safety.’ This view is shared by Peter O’Hara of Martindale
About the author
Rob Shepherd is a freelance journalist and regular contributor to ECA Today. He has worked in the electrical contracting industry for more than 14 years.
Electric, who adds: ‘In between third-party calibrations, electrical contractors should self-check their instruments using a high quality check box. This ensures faults should be picked up quickly, reducing the risk of leaving an installation in a dangerous condition.’
Looking ahead In the face of tougher competition, test equipment manufacturers will continue to differentiate their products and make them more beneficial by introducing more features and benefits. Electrical contractors are totally reliant on their test instruments, and those manufacturers that can offer the reliability, availability and service required will be at the top of most shopping lists.
Seaward Apollo600 PAT test unit
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