Testing portable electrical appliances
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Electrical testing can be done by a qualified electrical tradesperson, using the appropriate testing equipment, who assesses the results or a non-electrical tradesperson trained in the use of a portable appliance tester (PAT).
A PAT Tester is an electronic instrument that automatically, tests the equipment plugged into it. The results it indicates require no technical interpretation. To use a PAT it is a requirement that the person carrying out the testing is deemed a "Competent Person" as per AS/NZS 3760:2003.
According to NSW Electrical Test and Tagging, there is an abundant range of PAT testers to choose from and making the right choice can be difficult, but not impossible. When considering purchasing a tester, some things to take into consideration are:
- Will I need to conduct an earth leakage test?
- Will I need data capture?
- Do I need to print my own tags?
If the answer is no, than a basic model such as the Aegis Patrol CZ5000 or the TnT-B may be a option. Both these testers are inexpensive. The Patrol has the added advantage of being a fully portable tester, which can operate from internal alkaline batteries or from a 240V AC supply when present. These testers will conduct earth continuity, insulation resistance & polarity tests as required by the AS/NZS 3760:2003.
If however, you need to conduct an earth leakage test, (this test is required when the appliance needs to be energised to close the circuit,) there are several alternatives available. One of the most economical testers capable of doing a leakage test as well as the other required tests is the Seaward PAC3760 or the Primetest 100.
When it comes to data capture capabilities again there are a number of options in this type of tester. The Trio SafeTcheck Pro Logger at the lower end of the price spectrum is value for money and the Seaward Supernova is also good value as it can be combined with a test tag printer for on-site printing of durable and customised test tags.
There are endless combinations, some with barcode scanners, others can be used with stand alone software. It all depends on your unique circumstances; one tester does not fit all.
http://www.ferret.com.au/c/NSW-Electrical-Test-Tagging/Testing-portable-electrical-appliances-n677149
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