Advanced technology for all your earth ground testing applications

The new Fluke 1620 Series Earth Ground Testers not only measure ground resistance using the classic ‘fall of potential test’ but also enable time saving testing using the ‘selective’ and ‘stakeless’ methods. ‘Selective’ testing does not require the electrode under test to be disconnected during the measurement, thus increasing safety. The simple ‘stakeless’ method quickly checks ground connections using two current transformers (probes) clamped around the ground conductor under test. Offering ‘one-button’ simplicity, the 1623 is an all-in-one earth ground tester, while the 1625 has extra versatility for more demanding applications.

Earth ground resistance and soil resistivity should be measured when:

• Designing earth ground systems
• Installing new ground system and electrical equipment
• Periodically testing ground and lightning protection systems
• Installing large electrical equipment such as transformers, switchgears, machines, etc.

Features

• One-button measurement concept
• 3- and 4-pole earth ground measurement
• 4-Pole soil resistivity testing
• 2-Pole resistance measurement AC
• Selective testing, no disconnection of ground conductor (1 clamp)
• Stakeless testing, quick ground loop testing (2 clamps)
• Measuring frequency 128 Hz
• Safety rating - CAT II 300 V

Includes

• Protective holster with carry belt
• 2 test leads
• 2 alligator clips
• 1 shorting jumper
• Users manual
• Stake/reel set
• 4 pole
• selective/stakeless clamp set

What is ground, and what does it doΩ;

The NEC, National Electrical Code, defines a ground as a “conducting connection, whether intentional or accidental between an electrical circuit or equipment and the earth, or to some conducting body that serves in place of the earth.” When talking about grounding it is actually two different subjects, earth grounding and equipment grounding. Earth grounding is an intentional connection from a circuit conductor usually the neutral to a ground electrode placed in the earth. Equipment grounding is to ensure that operating equipment within a structure is properly grounded.

These two grounding systems are required to be separate except for a connection between the two systems to prevent differences in potential from a possible flashover from a lightning strike. The purpose of a ground besides the protection of people, plants and equipment is to provide a safe path for the dissipation of Fault Currents, Lightning Strikes, Static Discharges, EMI and RFI signals and interference.

Checking ground electrode impedance for commercial, industrial and residential buildings

This application note explains earth ground principles and safety in more depth and then describes the principle testing methods:

• Three- and four-pole Fallof- Potential testing
• Selective testing
• stakeless testing
• 2 pole testing

Want to read moreΩ; Download this and other application notes at www.fluke.co.uk/applications