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05 Feb 2021 : Hioki Singapore Launches Battery Tester BT3554-5x Series

Hioki Singapore Launches Battery Tester BT3554-5x Series


Streamline lead-acid battery diagnostics with measurement and recording guidance

Hioki Singapore is pleased to announce the launch of the Battery Tester BT3554-5x Series, which streamlines lead-acid battery diagnostics with audio measurement and recording guidance* 1 and functionality for registering profiles*2.

 

The new Battery Tester BT3554-50 sets a new standard for uninterruptible power supply (UPS) and lead-acid battery diagnostics in buildings, manufacturing plants, and data centers. The  Wireless Adapter Z3210 can be installed to enable Bluetooth(R) wireless communications with smartphones and tablets, while GENNECT Cross,  a free and useful application from Hioki, can be used to review, manage, and create reports using measured values.

 

Lead-acid batteries must be regularly inspected, making it necessary to manage the resulting measurement data. However, it’s all too easy to make mistakes when measuring and recording values at sites with large numbers of batteries, adversely impacting efficiency by requiring technicians to go back and repeat measurements. Additionally, data management was made more labor-intensive by the lack of a simple solution for linking measurement data to measurement locations.

 

Nowadays, adoption of renewable energy has surged as businesses work to realize a sustainable society, and demand for lead-acid batteries for use in energy storage applications is expected to continue to grow in the future.
To address these issues and streamline growing maintenance workloads, Hioki developed an audio measurement and recording guide to assist in the measurement process as well as profile registration functionality.

 

■ Features
1. Measurement and recording guidance so you don’t have to go back and redo work
When paired with GENNECT Cross, your smartphone or tablet will provide audio guidance announcing the next battery number to be measured based on the profile (including location, device, and battery number information).
This feature prevents mistakes in sequencing and provides audio announcements of judgment results. Measurement data is automatically recorded on the instrument and sent to your smartphone at the same time. As a result, measurement and recording can be performed quickly and reliably.

 

2. Profile registration function for simple data management
By registering profiles with GENNECT Cross or the included desktop application GENNECT ONE and transferring them to the BT3554-50 prior to measurement, you can link measurement data and diagnostic results to profile data when saving them. This capability simplifies data management, even when performing diagnostic work on large numbers of batteries.

 

3. Proprietary measurement technology to accurately assess lead-acid battery degradation
Ordinarily, measured values will fail to stabilize if the UPS is operating due to the effects of noise from nearby inverters. Hioki’s proprietary noise reduction technology allows accurate measurement, even in noisy environments.

 

Product Line Up

 

Hioki Singapore will launch the following 2 models to South East Asia, Oceania and Bangladesh regions:
– BT3554-51 Kit
 Battery Tester BT3554-50,  Bundled with Pin Type Lead 9465-10 & Wireless Adapter Z3210
– BT3554-52 Kit
Battery Tester BT3554-50, Bundled with Pin Type Lead L2020  & Wireless Adapter Z3210 (Recommended)
 
It also comes with standard accessories which include:
– Carrying case C1014
– Protector Z5041
– Fuse Set Z5050 (5 pcs)
– 0 Adj Board
– Neck Strap
– USB Cable
– GENNECT One Software CD

Full Range of Products Compatible with Z3210

 

■ Principal Applications/ Customers
　Maintenance inspections of UPS systems and lead-acid batteries
   Maintenance inspection workers and managers
For more information about the product, please refer to the catalog below:

 

A Series Of Facebook LIVE! Videos in March! 
Join us in our Facebook LIVE! series in March, as we share more about the new BT3554-52 Kit, LIVE Demo and unboxing the product ! We will be connecting directly to Hioki Japan Engineers and you will be able to ask questions to them! Be sure to follow our pages below for more information!
Language 

Date

 

Time

Facebook LIVE! (English) 

(Connecting with Hioki Japan Engineers)

www.facebook.com/hiokisingapore

Hioki Singapore Youtube

 

 

4/3/2021, Thurs

 

2pm – 3.30pm (SGT)
Facebook LIVE! (Vietnamese)

https://www.facebook.com/hioki.com.vn

 

 

 

11/3/2021, Thurs

 

2pm – 3.30pm (VN time)
 Facebook LIVE! (Thai)

https://www.facebook.com/HiokiThai

 

 

 

16/3/2021, Tues

 

2pm – 3.30pm (TH time)
Facebook LIVE! (Bahasa Indonesia) 

https://www.facebook.com/Hiokiindonesia

 

 

18/3/2021, Thurs

 

2pm – 3.30pm (ID time)

For more information on the product, please contact marketing@hioki.com.sg 

 

*1 Use of audio measurement and recording guidance requires the Wireless Adapter Z3210 and the free app GENNECT Cross (Ver. 1.8 or later, available in 2021).

 

*2 To use the profile information registration function, requires the Wireless Adapter Z3210 and the free app GENNECT Cross (Ver. 1.8 or later, available in 2021) or the standard accessory PC application software GENNECT One is required.

 

*Company and product names used in this release are the trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners.
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28 Jan 2021 : Hioki AC Leakage Clamp Meter CM4003 For Troubleshooting Intermittent RCD Tripping

Hioki AC Leakage Clamp Meter CM4003 for Troubleshooting Intermittent RCD Tripping

What is RCD? 

Residual Current Device (RCD) is a generic term for safety devices that switch off electricity automatically if there’s any fault [1]. It protects against accidental electrocution to users, equipment malfunctions, and fire hazards to properties. RCD monitors the Residual Current level (the current difference between the live wire and the neutral wire) versus its rated nominal tripping current to disconnect the power supply [2]. Residual Current is due to leakage current from old or damaged insulation of equipment flowing to the ground through a conductive path. Some example of RCDs are as follow:

Figure 1.0 Examples of Residual Current Devices (RCDs)

1. Residual Current Circuit Breaker (RCCB)
2. Residual Current Circuit Breaker with overload protection (RCBO)
3. Earth Fault Relay (EFR)
4. Earth Leakage Relay (ELR)

Leakage Current Measurement and Intermittent RCD Tripping 

RCD will trip whenever a leakage current exceeds the designated RCD’s threshold value. A high leakage current can cause unnecessary and intermittent RCD tripping. Therefore, leakage current measurement can help detect potential issues in the circuits and prevent problems such as intermittent RCD tripping. This measurement can also help trace the source of leakage current.

A leakage current sensor clamp is clamped to the round-trip wiring or ground conductors for leakage current measurement, as shown in Figure 2.0 below.

Figure 2.0 Leakage Current measurement method

1. Single Phase Circuits (phase and neutral conductors)
2. Three-phase Circuits (all 3 phases and neutral conductors)
3. Ground Circuit (for total leakage checking)

 

The source of leakage current tracing starts from the conductor line to the main panel (upstream) right down to individual circuits (downstream) until it is found (Figure 3.0).

Figure 3.0 Leakage Current Source Tracing Methodology (Upstream to Downstream)

 

Hioki AC Leakage Clamp Meter CM4003 Troubleshooting
Intermittent RCD Tripping

Intermittent RCD tripping is unpredictable and time-consuming to troubleshoot in normal circumstances. Hioki’s CM4003 is capable of measuring leakage current values and recording intermittent tripping events of RCDs. The threshold value of leakage current values for an event recording trigger is configurable by users. Below are the steps of using CM4003 as a troubleshooting tool for intermittent tripping:

1. Install a Clamp Meter on each circuit
2. Set the recording conditions using the tablet (threshold value *2 and recording time) and start event recording

*2: Level of leakage current you wish to detect

*3 Recording Time: Up to 30 days (Battery operation is limited by the life of the batteries. Only the CM4003 can be powered by an external power supply)

Number of recorded events: Up to 999 (CM4002/CM4003; CM4001: 99)

Import data using GENNECT Cross

1. Trip event recorded with leakage value and time of event

For a long duration of continuous measurement recording, CM4003 can be paired with the AC adaptor Z1013 for external power supply and Hioki’s Memory HiCorder for output function, as illustrated in Figure 4.0 below.

 

Convenient Functionality exclusive to the CM4003

Figure 4.0 CM4003 set-up for long duration of continuous measurement recording (RCDs)

Output function (waveform/RMS): Use a recorder to record waveforms and fluctuations
External Power Supply: Use an AC Adapter*3 for continuous, long-term measurement

 

Key Features of the CM4003

 

1. Minimum resolution of 0.01mA

- Range: 6.000mA - 200.0A
- Comply with IE61557-13

2. Uniform measurement sensitivity regardless of conductor position inside the jaws

3. Large jaw size for single thick wire or multiple wires

4. Bluetooth option with Wireless Adapter Z3210 (Optional) to connect with GENNECT Cross software (Tablet / Mobile)

5. AC Adapter (Optional) for long duration of leakage current data logging (up to 999 events on standalone mode)

6. Resistance to external magnetic field

7. Able to measure AC inrush current (measured value will be auto-hold)

8. Comparator function with warning sound and warning red backlight if measured values exceeds threshold value

 

Alternatives for Leakage Current Measurements

The following Hioki Portable Power Meters are alternatives to CM4003 for leakage current measurement:

 

i. Power Logger PW3360 + Clamp On Leak Sensor 9657-10
ii. Power Logger PW3365 + Clamp On Leak Sensor 9657-10
iii. Power Quality Analyzer PQ3100 + AC Leakage Sensor CT7116
iv. Power Quality Analyzer PQ3198 + AC Leakage Sensor CT7116

For more information on Hioki AC Leakage Clamp Meter CM4003, please click the link here:  Hioki AC Leakage Clamp Meter CM4003

Download Product Catalog

References

1. https://www.electricalsafetyfirst.org.uk/guidance/safety-around-the-home/rcds-explained/

2. https://electrical.theiet.org/wiring-matters/years/2019/77-september-2019/which-rcd-type/#:~:text=Whilst%20RCDs%20have%20a%20nominal,18%20mA%20to%2028%20mA.

 

 

 

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19 Jan 2020 : Hioki Singapore Launches In-Circuit Tester FA1220-02

Hioki Singapore Launches In-Circuit Tester FA1220-02


Slide-in mechanism boosts productivity of populated board testing

Hioki is pleased to announce the launch of the In-Circuit Tester FA1220-02.
FA1220-02 which is the space-saving design system generating pass/fail judgments for circuit boards that are populated with electronic components.

 

Its slide-in mechanism simplifies installation and removal of test fixtures*, reducing man-hours and workload and improving productivity in populated board testing and production environments.

 

*Test fixture: A test jig with embedded contact probes (test pins) that are aligned with the desired test points.

Slide-in mechanism for easy installation and removal

■ DEVELOPMENT BACKGROUND
In-circuit testers with upper and lower test fixtures inspect circuit boards by placing all probes on their fixtures in contact with the board under test. Test locations vary from board to board, so the test fixtures have to be changed to accommodate the type of circuit board being tested.
As the functionality and density of populated circuit boards have grown in recent years, so has the number of components mounted on those boards, leading to increases in the number of test locations. Such boards require a large number of probes, which increases the weight of test fixtures. Many manufacturers rely on multi-model, small-lot production systems, with the result that changing test fixtures to accommodate the type of board being produced imposes a significant burden on workers.

 

■ KEY FEATURES
1. Slide-in mechanism for easy installation and removal of test fixtures

In the past, workers had to lift up the lower test fixture and insert it into the tester’s frame. Then they had to install the upper test fixture and connect the two fixtures with cables.
The FA1220-02 features a slide-in mechanism with a large opening that makes it easy to install test fixtures. Pulling down front cover so that operator can install fixture easily while his/her body posture is comfortable.

Hioki also redesigned the test fixtures to integrate the upper and lower fixtures into a single unit for easier storage, installation, and removal*. Since the test fixtures are already connected when they’re installed into the tester, there’s no need to connect or disconnect cables. Furthermore, the design saves storage space.
*This option must be specified at time of order.
2.Touch Panel PC
Touch panel PC is adopted for operation. Basic operaton such as switching screen, loading test program, starting tests and manual test can be executed on touch PC instead of using keyboard and/or mouse.

 

3.Automatic Connection with using One Touch Connector (factory option)
Simple touch panel operation allows you to complete connection works of One-Touch Connector. You can make sure contacts of the connector easily even if you are not required to operate the lever manually.

One-touch connector and touch screen

4. Support for more test points
The FA1220-02’s highly integrated measurement unit serves as the system’s testing core. Even when equipped with the maximum 2,048 pins*, the system takes up no more floor space than the previous 1220-52. Test programs and test fixtures provide upstream compatibility with previous models.
*Requires 16 additional scanner boards.

 

■ PRINCIPAL APPLICATIONS
Testing and production of populated circuit boards
Circuit boards used in automobiles and industrial equipment such as robots that is required to deliver a high level of reliability
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16 Dec 2020 : Hioki Upgrades Clamp-On Earth Tester and Insulation Tester, Adding To The List Of Bluetooth Compatible Products

Digital Multimeter

Hioki Upgrades Clamp-On Earth Tester and Insulation Tester, Adding To The List Of Bluetooth Compatible Products

New instruments feature compatibility with Wireless Adapter Z3210 

Hioki is pleased to upgrade and add two more products, Clamp on Earth Tester FT6830-50 and Insulation Tester IR4057-50, to the list of newly upgraded products compatible with the Wireless Adapter Z3210.  These include Earth Tester FT6031-50 & Digital Phase Detector PD3259-50.  Hioki had also recently launched a series of AC Leakage Clamp Meter CM4001, CM4002 and CM4003 which are all compatible with Wireless Adapter Z3210. The total number of measuring instruments which can be fitted with Z3210 now comes to 7, with more coming up in the year 2021.

The Wireless Adapter Z3210 can be connected to either instrument to enable Bluetooth® wireless communications with smartphones and tablets. Users can enter measurement data directly into an Excel® form* or use GENNECT Cross, a free application from Hioki, to record measurement results on site photographs or construction drawings.

This capability allows the entire series of steps from measurement to report creation to be carried out in the field for applications such as completion inspections following the installation of electrical equipment and subsequent regular inspections, reducing workload and eliminating the risk of transfer errors.
*Hioki plans to add functionality for direct entry of values into Excel sheets to the Z3210 in 2021.

■ Development Background
It is against this backdrop that Hioki is expanding its line of field measuring instruments that support Bluetooth® wireless communications in order to streamline measurement and testing work while accommodating new workstyles. As part of that effort, the company added support for Bluetooth® wireless communications to its phase detector with built-in voltmeter, an instrument that plays an essential role in electrical equipment installation and completion inspections.

Previous versions of both models already supported Bluetooth® wireless communications, but Hioki updated them to add convenience and enhance interoperability with other models that support GENNECT Cross.

■Benefits of using the Z3210
1.Directly entering values into an Excel® sheet (coming to the Z3210 in 2021)
Measured values can be directly entered into an Excel® sheet.
When a user opens an Excel® fi le and presses the HOLD button on the instrument while a cell is selected in the file, the measured value will be entered into the selected cell. This functionality will be useful for customers using a dedicated format to report results.

In insulation resistance measurement applications, which are characterized by a particularly large number of measurement locations, the Z3210 streamlines work by allowing the user to enter readings directly into an Excel® form, eliminating the need to record values on paper in the field and later create a report on a computer.

2. Easy data management using GENNECT Cross, a free application
GENNECT Cross can be used to review, manage, and create reports with measurement results. Other functionality allows users to manage data smoothly in the field, for example by placing measurement results on, or adding handwritten memos to, photographs of measurement sites or construction drawings that have been imported into the mobile device.

The application can also use maps. Previous clamp-on earth testers used a dedicated application (available for Android ™ only) that was not compatible with other products that supported Bluetooth® wireless communications. This update allows the instrument to connect to GENNECT Cross, which supports numerous other models, so that reports can be managed along with measured values from other supported instruments. It also broadens support to include iOS devices.

■ FT6380-50 Features
The FT6380-50 measures grounding resistance in order verify proper grounding, which is essential to prevent hazards such as electric shock and fi res. Clamp-on earth testers need only be clamped around a grounding wire, making it easy to measure grounding resistance in multiple-earth installations including warehouses, transmission towers, and lightning rods.

1.Get things done with super slim jaws
Thanks to a thin sensor that measures just 20 mm in width, the instrument can be inserted into the confined spaces in which grounding wires are often found.


2. Larger grip for improved usability
The grip used to open the sensor has been enlarged and redesigned so that the jaws can be opened with just two fi ngers. As a result, the instrument can now be used with an even lighter touch.

■ IR4057-50 Features
Insulation resistance meters are used to prevent electric shock and short-circuits caused by the deterioration of insulation over the course of extended use in electrical devices, components, and equipment in manufacturing plants and other buildings.


1.Identify PASS / FAIL using Convenient for inspections light and sound
Compare measured values to pre-set reference values to generate a pass or fail decision with the Comparator function.

2.Significantly improve testing speed using test lead with remote switch （Option）
The optional Test Lead with Remote Switch L9788-11* includes an LED light to simplify work in dim or dark settings. Features like a switch for starting measurement and functionality for using colors to report pass/fail judgments relative to a previously set reference value streamline work by eliminating the need to operate or check the instrument.
*Product does not comply with part 4.3 of EN 61557 when using the L9788-11.

*Company and product names used in this release are the trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners.

A summary of the updates in the order code is as follows:

Product 

Old Model Code

New/Upgraded Model Order Code

Clamp On
Leak HiTester

3283-20

Download Catalogue


3283

Download Catalogue


Earth Tester

FT6031-03

Download Catalogue


Phase Detector

PD3259

Download Catalogue


Insulation Tester

IR4057-20

Download Catalogue


IR4058-20

Clamp On
Earth Tester

FT6380

Download Catalogue


FT6381

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11 Dec 2020 : Business alliance between measurement and calibration solutions vendor ETAS and electrical measuring instrument manufacturer HIOKI

Power Consumption

Business alliance between measurement and calibration solutions vendor ETAS and electrical measuring instrument manufacturer HIOKI

December 11, 2020 – Nagano, Japan

ETAS K.K. (Headquarters: Nishi-ku, Yokohama, President & Representative Director, Takayuki Yokoyama, hereinafter, “ETAS”), which provides measurement and calibration solutions for ECU software and HIOKI E.E. Corporation (Headquarters: Ueda, Nagano, President & CEO, Kazutoshi Hosoya, hereinafter “HIOKI”), which engages in electrical measuring instrument development, production, sales, and services announce a business alliance. The purpose of this alliance is to fuse high-precision electrical measuring technology and measurement and calibration solutions, which are essential to improving the efficiency of electric powertrain development.

Market background

In the automotive industry, there is currently a demand for the massive technology innovation represented by CASE (Connected, Autonomous, Shared, and Electric).

Larger capacity for storage batteries represented by lithium-ion batteries, inverters with increased switching frequencies through the evolution from IGBTs to SiC, and new electrical measuring technologies based on the higher responsiveness of the motor system are needed, particularly in the electrification arena. There is also demand for the efficient development of ECU software for controlling these technologies.

Effect of the business alliance

The solutions provided by ETAS will be fused with high-precision electrical measuring technology provided by HIOKI for everything from advanced development of electric powertrains to actual vehicle experiments.
As one example, in electric powertrain development, motor operating conditions and output are determined by using ECU software to calibrate voltage and current while measuring electrical parameters such as voltage/current values and power loss. Synchronizing ECU software calibration using ETAS’s INCA with electric energy measurement using HIOKI’s Power Analyzer PW6001 will greatly contribute to more efficient electric powertrain development.

Furthermore, HIOKI has realized the SP7001 non-contact CAN/CAN FD sensor to apply electrical measuring technology. Combining this sensor with ETAS’s INCA will make it possible to measure information from vehicle-mounted networks without fabricating harnesses.

Solution features
Add-ons will enable HIOKI power analyzer measurement data to be recorded in INCA. Connecting ETAS’s INCA with HIOKI’s PW6001/PW3390 will enable seamless execution from actual PCU verification to calibration on test benches.

Solution advantages
Recording ECU control values and CAN communication via a single measurement data element can enhance analysis efficiency. Expressing power analyzer measurement data with INCA’s rich GUI will prevent worker analysis errors. Furthermore, since power analyzer settings can be changed from INCA, main unit operations can be reduced.
Additionally, power analyzer measurement data can be input to INCA directly via digital communication without errors, which will improve calibration accuracy. This also contributes to high-precision plant model generation since high-precision data can be obtained when plant models are generated from actual measurement data.

Figure: INCA Add-on HIOKI Integrated High-Precision Electrical Measurement Package

[Left] Takahiro Okazawa, Director and Senior Managing Executive Officer in-
Charge of Sales and Services, HIOKI E.E. Corporation
(Scheduled to take office as President & CEO as of January 1, 2021)

[Right] Takayuki Yokoyama, President & Representative Director, ETAS K.K.

——–

About ETAS K.K.
ETAS provides innovative solutions for the development of embedded systems for the automotive industry and other sectors of the embedded industry. As a systems provider, ETAS supplies a multifaceted portfolio that covers the range from integrated tools and tool solutions to engineering services, consulting, train¬ing, and support. Holistic IoT security solutions are offered via ETAS subsi¬diary ESCRYPT. Established in 1994, ETAS GmbH is a 100-percent subsidiary of the Bosch Group, with international subsidiaries and sales offices in Europe, North and South America, and Asia. Find further information online at www.etas.com.

About HIOKI E.E. Corporation
HIOKI provides electrical measuring solutions in various fields including vehicles, electronic components, environment & new energy, and infrastructure. Electrical measuring instruments, called industrial mother tools, are necessary and essential in all situations, such as research and development, production lines, and maintenance services. HIOKI promotes the safe and effective use of energy by customers and contributes to the security and development of society with solid technology and unique innovation cultivated through its 85 years of single-minded focus on electrical measurement.
HIOKI provides timely solutions to customers around the world through speedy collaboration of the headquarters in Japan, where development, production, and management functions are concentrated, its domestic sales branches, and its eight sales subsidiaries spread throughout Asia, America, and Europe. For details, please go to www.hioki.com.

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30 Nov 2020 : Hioki Upgrades Digital Phase Detector PD3259 to PD3259-50

Hioki Upgrades Digital Phase Detector PD3259 to PD3259-50

Bluetooth® wireless communications support reduces workload and work times.

Hioki is pleased to announce the upgrade of  Digital Phase Detector PD3259 to PD3259-50, which supports Bluetooth® wireless communications with smartphones and tablets via the optional Wireless Adapter Z3210.

This capability makes it possible to use GENNECT Cross, a free application from Hioki, to review, manage, and create reports with measured values and to enter measurement data directly into users’ Excel® sheets*.

Like the previous product (the Digital Phase Detector PD3259), the PD3259-50 integrates a phase detector with a voltmeter, allowing it to simultaneously measure both phase and voltage using Hioki’s proprietary no-metal-contact voltage sensor.
The new instrument will help reduce workloads and work times since it not only makes safe, fast measurements, but also supports Bluetooth® wireless communications. That capability allows the entire series of steps from measurement to report creation to be carried out in the field and eliminates the risk of transfer errors.
*Hioki plans to add functionality for direct entry of values into Excel sheets to the Z3210 in 2021.

■ Development Background
In the past, technicians had to record data measured in the field on paper and create reports later. This workflow increased the likelihood that mistakes would be made when recording values on paper or entering them into a computer.
Additionally, the need to transfer values to a computer and to return to the office in order to create reports placed a significant burden on workers.
It is against this backdrop that Hioki is expanding its line of field measuring instruments that support Bluetooth® wireless communications in order to streamline measurement and testing work while accommodating new workstyles. As part of that effort, the company added support for Bluetooth® wireless communications to its phase detector with built-in voltmeter, an instrument that plays an essential role in electrical equipment installation and completion inspections.

■ Key Features

1. Bluetooth® wireless communications support for reduced workload and work times

When connected to the optional Wireless Adapter Z3210, the PD3259-50 can be paired wirelessly with a tablet or smartphone using Bluetooth®. The ability to send measurement data to such mobile devices eliminates mistakes when writing down values as well as the time and trouble of transferring data to a computer.
Additionally, measurement data can be (1) transferred to GENNECT Cross, a free application from Hioki, or (2) directly entered into an Excel® sheet.

(1) Transferring data to GENNECT Cross

GENNECT Cross can be used to review, manage, and create reports with measurement results. Other functionality allows users to manage data smoothly in the field, for example by placing measurement results on, or adding handwritten memos to, photographs of measurement sites or construction drawings that have been imported into the mobile device.

(2) Directly entering values into an Excel® sheet (coming to the Z3210 in 2021)

Measured values can be directly entered into an Excel® sheet. When a user opens an Excel® file and presses the HOLD button on the instrument while a cell is selected in the file, the measured value will be entered into the selected cell. This functionality will be useful for customers using a dedicated format to report results.

2. Easy judgment using vector diagram and unbalance factor displays (coming in 2021)

Until now, unbalance factors had to be calculated separately even if voltage was measured during maintenance of motors and pumps since phase shift and unbalance factor cannot be determined from measured values. With GENNECT Cross, users need only enter measured values to display a vector diagram and unbalance factor figures.

The ability to read unbalance factors directly makes it easy to compare readings with management standards so that motor and pump failures can be prevented.

*This is a reference image of the planned completion.

3.Fast, safe phase detection and voltage measurement with no-metal-contact voltage sensors

The PD3259-50 can both detect phases and measure voltages. The instrument features Hioki’s proprietary no-metal-contact voltage sensor. These sensors make it possible to detect phase and measure voltage simply by clipping the voltage sensors on the outside of each wire’s insulation, eliminating risk of electric shock and short-circuits.
Whereas the conventional approach required workers to confirm phase connections with a phase detector and then make three voltage measurements with a digital voltmeter, the PD3259-50 can perform all of these operations with a single measurement.

■ Principal Applications/ Customers
　•Electrical equipment installation, completion inspections, and periodic inspections
electricians, electrical maintenance engineers, electrical safety associations, power companies

■ Definition of Phase Detector


A phase detector is an instrument used to determine whether three-phase electrical wiring has been connected in the proper order.
Three-phase electrical wiring uses three or more wires to supply AC voltages characterized by three different phases. Operating three-phase equipment with the phases connected improperly can result in an accident or equipment damage.

Conventional phase detectors only detect whether the phases are connected properly, making it necessary to use another instrument such as a digital multimeter to determine the voltage values between each pair of lines.

*Company names and product names appearing in this release are trademarks or registered trademarks of various companies.

Download The Digital Phase Detector PD3259-50 Catalogue here

Download the Wireless Adapter Z3210 Catalogue here

 

Hioki Phase Detector Series At A Glance:

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27 Nov 2020 : Hioki Launches AC Leakage Clamp Meter CM4002, CM4003

Hioki Launches AC Leakage Clamp Meter CM4002, CM4003

New instruments help resolve current leakage problems quickly with efficient investigation and high-precision measurement capabilities

 

Hioki is pleased to announce the launch of the AC Leakage Clamp Meter CM4002 and CM4003, which streamline current leakage investigations and deliver high-precision, high-reliability leakage current measurement capability.

The new instruments, which update the Clamp on Leak HiTester 3283, can measure parameters ranging from AC leakage current to load current.

In addition to a newly designed sensor that allows accurate detection of minuscule currents, the instruments support the optional Wireless Adapter Z3210, which can be connected to enable Bluetooth® wireless communications with smartphones and tablets. The CM4002 and CM4003 significantly reduce the time required to resolve current leakage issues.

■ Development Background
The process of maintaining electrical equipment in buildings and plants includes periodic insulation management. Since current leaks can lead to equipment malfunctions and electric shock, it is essential to locate them quickly. Additionally, in today’s world where electric power is critical to our everyday lives, electricity users demand maintenance methods that do not necessitate power interruptions.

Technicians use leakage clamp meters to measure current quickly and easily simply by clamping them around wires, eliminating the need to shut off the power. The Clamp on Leak HiTester 3283, which was launched in 1997, long served as Hioki’s fl agship instrument for measuring leakage current, earning it broad adoption among users responsible for production plant and building management and maintenance inspections over many years.

However, measurement was not a simple process, with operators typically required to copy down readings by hand on paper in the fi eld, which forced them to spend time later checking the results against equipment sites, and use other instruments such as recorders when they needed to investigate current leakage (intermittent leakage) issues to determine when they were occurring. Hioki developed the CM4002 and CM4003 to provide capability for investigating current leakage issues through efficient, high-precision measurement.

 

■ Key Features

1. Streamlining investigations of current leakage with the Z3210 and GENNECT Cross
When connected to the optional Wireless Adapter Z3210, the CM4002 and CM4003 can be paired wirelessly with a tablet or smartphone using Bluetooth®. GENNECT Cross, a free application software from Hioki, can then be used to place measurement results on site photographs and construction drawings that have been imported into the handset so that leakage locations can be quickly identified.

The application software also provides event recording functionality, a convenient tool for investigating leakage events whose timing is unknown. To utilize the function, users simply place the instrument in the field and configure event settings with the leakage current value and other conditions they wish to detect. Events are recorded in the instrument’s built-in memory as they occur, allowing the user to recover the data later and check for leakage events.

Other functionality such as the ability to generate PDF reports from recorded data in the field further boosts work efficiency.

 

2. High-precision, high-reliability leakage current measurement using a newly designed sensor
To measure minuscule leakage currents, an instrument must be engineered to resist the effects of external magnetic fields. The CM4002 and CM4003’s newly designed sensor uses high-permeability magnetic materials that resist the effects of external magnetic fields for its internal core and shielding. By blocking magnetic fields from the surrounding environment, these materials reduce the effects of such fields by 50%* compared to the previous model.

A new international standard governing leak clamps, IEC 61557-13, requires that the instruments be capable of measuring extremely small leakage currents at a higher level of precision than in the past. The CM4002 and CM4003 comply with the standard’s performance criteria to deliver highprecision, high-reliability measurement.
*Typical value when measuring a 20 mA leakage current in an external magnetic field of 400 A/m.

3.Ability to measure everything from leakage current to load current
The range of values for which accuracy is guaranteed‒0.060 mA to 200.0 A‒has been expanded from the previous model (1.00 mA to 200.0 A) to include minuscule currents. As a result, the instruments can be used in a greater variety of settings.

Thanks to a clamp diameter of 40 mm, the instruments can be easily clamped around thick cables.

 

4. Convenient functionality specific to the CM4003
Output function (waveform/RMS): The CM4003 can record waveforms and fl uctuations when used with a recorder.
External power supply function: The CM4003 can operate continuously for an extended period of time when used with the optional AC Adapter Z1013.

 

 

■ PRIMARY APPLICATIONS

• Leakage current measurement: Insulation management and leakage checks
• Load current measurement: Electrical equipment inspections

*Company and product names used in this release are the trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners.

Hioki AC Leakage Current Clamp Meters At A Glance!

Download The AC Leakage Current Clamp Meter CM4002 and CM4003 Catalogue here

Download the Wireless Adapter Z3210 Catalogue here

 

Posted on

26 Nov 2020 : Hioki Memory HiCorder MR8880 For Troubleshooting RCCB Failure In TL Inverter Solar PV System Due to DC Backflow

Data Acquisition

Hioki Memory HiCorder MR8880 For Troubleshooting RCCB Failure In TL Inverter Solar PV System Due to DC Backflow

What is RCCB? 

Residual Current Circuit Breaker (RCCB) is a device containing a mechanical switch to disconnect a circuit when it detects a current difference between the live and the neutral wire [1]. Under normal condition, the current in the live wire and the returning current from the neutral wire is the same [2]. The current difference, called Residual Current, is often caused by leakage current (mostly due to old or damaged insulation of equipment) flowing to the ground through a conductive path such as a human body. The Residual Current is used to disconnect the circuit in the RCCB according to their residual current rating design. Figure 1.0 shows the components of a RCCB while Figure 2.0 shows the pole types, residual current trip sensitivity rating, and type of RCCB available in the market.

Figure 1.0 Components of a RCCB
Figure 2.0 RCCB pole type, residual current trip sensitivity rating and type

Leakage current can be dangerous and even fatal to users if it exceeds certain threshold, as can be seen from Figure 3.0 below. Exposure to a leakage current of 30mA exceeding a mere 40miliseconds can kill a person. Therefore, RCCB plays a crucial role in user protection; any failure in the functionality of RCCB will have a devastating effect.

Figure 3.0 Leakage current effect on human

TL Inverter Solar PV System and DC Backflow

Solar Photovoltaic (PV) installation is becoming increasingly popular for domestic usage. Most home Solar PV system comes without a transformer (Transformer-less (TL) Inverter Solar PV system) for cost-effectiveness purpose. In this system, the parasitic capacitance between the PV system and earth forms a loop leading to a voltage which produces a current [3] (Figure 4.0). A parasitic capacitance is a phenomenon of unwanted capacitance when two nearby conductive elements are at or possess different charge levels. Due to the low impedance of this system, the common mode voltage will form a large common mode current (leakage current) on the parasitic capacitance.

Figure 4.0 Leakage current path for TL inverter Solar PV system

However, in a Solar PV system with a transformer, the high parasitic capacitance between the transformer windings loop can suppress the leakage current loop between the solar PV system and earth to a certain extent.

TL Inverter Solar PV System DC Backflow impact on RCCB

In a situation without any leakage current, the magnetic field of the RCCB core between the live wire and the neutral wire are balanced and cancels out. When leakage current occurs (ΙLive > ΙNeutral), the magnetic field changes and generates a current in the relay windings connected to the same iron core to disconnect the circuit if it hits the designated RCCB current rating.

When a certain amount of DC backflow occurs in the AC line supply, the total current flowing in the AC line live wire will be higher in one direction of the AC waveform (Figure 5.0). The higher current in one direction of the AC line causes the RCCB’s iron core magnetic field to magnetize in one direction more than the other [4]. The magnetization results in a higher tripping current required for the relay switch to mechanically disconnect the circuit. In short, the RCCB’s required tripping current is NOT functioning according to its designated rating anymore. This situation is very hazardous, as it means there’s no leakage current tripping protection for the users. Therefore, it is crucial to monitor DC backflow in the AC line to ensure no compromise on the safety of users. 

Figure 5.0 Effect of DC flow on AC magnitude** in live wire

Hioki MR8880-20 for DC backflow measurement  in TL Inverter Solar PV System

As illustrated above, DC backflow at certain level can cause RCCB functionality failure which could be lethal. Therefore, there's a need to monitor and ensure this parameter is at a safe level at all times. Hioki’s Memory Recorder MR8880-20 offer the following features that are useful to check on the DC backflow level.

• Four analog channels to measure up to 3-phase 4-pole RCCB

• Eight logic channels to monitor the trip sequence

• Measure individual phase’s DC current presence by using the four analog channels

The following accessories and attachments paired with MR8880-20 are used for measuring various AC and DC parameters:

1) Display Unit CM7290 with AC/DC Auto-zero Current Sensor CT7731
The AC, AC RMS and DC Current waveforms for RCCB can be measured

2) L9197 Alligator Test Leads with Magnetic Adapter  9804

a) AC and DC Voltage measurement
 The AC, AC RMS and DC voltage waveforms can be measured

b) Power disruption event trigger
The AC, AC RMS and DC voltage waveforms can be measured

3) Logic Probe MR9321-01
The trip time for the three-phase RCCB can be determined and compared to the requirement.

In conclusion, the reliance on RCCB alone for protection from residual current is insufficient for Solar PV System without a transformer. The DC backflow is a common and well-known phenomenon in this type of system. Without proper monitoring to ensure it is below the hazardous level, it can result in injury and worse, the loss of human life.

For more information on Hioki Memory HiCorder MR8880, please click the link here:  Hioki Memory HiCorder MR8880

Download Product Catalog

References

1. https://www.electgo.com/rccb-2/

2. http://engineering.electrical-equipment.org/electrical-distribution/residual-current-circuit-breaker-rccb.html

3. https://www.inverter.com/leakage-current-control-in-solar-inverter

4. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9qX89cPGgp4&feature=youtu.be

**Sine wave sample generated using sine wave generator on https://www.desmos.com/calculator/w9jrdpvsmk