Plant maintenance, test + measurement: Products + services
Ageing power quality meters can create blind spots Power quality meters are o¦en treated as fit-and-forget devices, sitting quietly inside panels for decades and receiving little attention. As electrical environments evolve, many of these legacy instruments create blind spots. John Mitchell, Global Sales and Marketing Director at power quality specialist CP Automation, highlights that long-life assets can quickly become vulnerable when product support disappears. For engineers still relying on discontinued and outdated power quality meters, the challenge is twofold: the hardware does not oer an upgrade path and modern electrical networks are becoming more complex. Consequently, users may soon be seeking guidance or a replacement, not just for high-end equipment, but for basic metering too. One example is the ageing Dranetz 61000-series installations, a legacy family of power quality analysers commonly installed across industrial and utility sites. Form-factor constraints and obsolete components can limit replacement options for operators and engineers using this technology, unless they seek specialist support. The risk with legacy equipment Unlike equipment with a defined design life, such as variable speed drives (VSDs) or programmable logic controllers (PLCs), power quality meters sit in controlled environments and are rarely replaced unless a whole distribution panel is renewed. Panels can stay untouched for 20 years or more. During that time, the wider ecosystem around the meter steadily moves on. Communications protocols change, monitoring so¦ware evolves and the original programming tools may no longer be supported. A meter may still appear to be functional, but it is no longer able to integrate with modern systems or capture the right data. Today’s electrical environments present a bigger challenge. Modern loads, such as EV chargers and active front-end (AFE) drives, produce complex waveforms, high harmonics and, in some cases, supraharmonics. In these applications, legacy meters might give the impression that everything is healthy
simply because they’re unable to measure certain network disturbances.
Retrofitting and replacing The retrofit path is o¦en straightforward. Many panel-mounted meters share the same 96 mm square cut-out, making like-for-like replacement simple. For example, CP Automation’s metering range supports all major communication protocols, allowing new analysers to slot into existing networks seamlessly, with minimal disruption. For sites that prefer an internal installation, DIN-rail options are available too. Accuracy levels vary across the market, but the portfolio spans everything from basic meters to Class A analysers that can meet the strictest utility and billing requirements. This range allows operators to match the measurement capability to the application’s criticality, deciding whether they require a simple energy meter or a high-end analyser that provides wider spectrum visibility. Integration with platforms such as PQView is another advantage. Widely used by Distribution Network Operators for managing fleets of sites, PQView ensures that even large organisations can monitor hundreds of devices from a central point. More sophisticated meters can interface directly with this system, simplifying long-term management and reporting.
For more information visit: www.cpaltd.net.
Where legacy power quality meters have not kept up with evolving electrical systems, retrofits can be straightforward.
measuring voltage in various automotive circuits. Maintaining HVAC systems: Ensure HVAC systems are re- ceiving the correct voltage and functioning correctly with the Fluke T6-1000 PRO. Complete safety inspections: Conduct regular safety inspec- tions in commercial and industrial settings using the Fluke 1AC II to detect any live wires or faulty installations. Conclusion Voltage testers are essential tools for ensuring electrical safety and eiciency when testing current sources. By understanding how to use these devices and recognising their applications, you can enhance your electrical testing and troubleshooting capabilities. Fluke’s range of voltage testers, including the Fluke T6-1000 PRO, T5-1000, and 1AC II, provides reliable and accurate measurements for various tasks. Whether you are verifying power supply, troubleshooting circuit breakers, or conducting safety inspections, these tools help you perform your work safely and eiciently.
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to measure the voltage at the fixture’s terminals. Inspecting electrical panels: Use the Fluke T6-1000 PRO to safely measure voltage in electrical panels without making direct contact, reducing the risk of electric shocks. Checking outlet wiring: Verify that outlets are wired correctly by measuring voltage and continuity with the Fluke T5-1000. Maintaining industrial equipment: Regularly moni- tor the voltage and current of machinery with the Fluke T6-1000 PRO to ensure efficient operation and prevent downtime. Troubleshooting electrical issues: Electricians can use the Fluke 1AC II or T5-1000 to check for live wires when installing or repairing electrical fix- tures. Testing automotive electrical circuits: Use the Fluke T5-1000 to diagnose electrical issues in vehicles by
For more information visit: www.comtest.co.za
FEBRUARY 2026 Electricity + Control
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