Live readings are required when a piece of equipment is needed to be tested. A live reading provides understanding of how the system is operating, and can enable opportunity for efficiency improvements. Student Energy Analysts are not allowed to obtain live readings with direct methods. Assistance from facility electrician/personnel is required.

Learning Outcomes 

Understand how to use a power quality analyzer

Recognize safety measures from obtaining live power readings 

Be able to program and install a data logger

Safety Precautions and Hazards

Consider the following steps before taking any live readings:

  • Define a clear escape route in case of an emergency.
  • Ensure someone knows your location prior to collecting a live reading. 
  • Consider surrounding environmental hazards. 
  • Confirm the test equipment is working properly and that it is rated appropriately for the target. 
  • Maintain a distance between you and the electrician when obtaining a live reading.  

Hazards of Obtaining a Live Reading

  • Electric shock can affect the heart, injure body tissues, and causes muscle contraction. These affects can be potentially serious or life threatening. 
  • Arc flash (flashover) - a type of electrical explosion or discharge that result from a low-impedance connection through air to ground or another voltage phase in an electrical system. Arc flashes can lead to fatal accidents. 

An arc flash can be seen in the following video provided by Fluke:

 

 

 

Other dangers are voltage spikes or transient sparks. The following leads to large transient sparks: 

  • Inductive load switching
  • Lighting strikes
  • Transmission system switching