Insulation resistance tester/multimeter

[marc5180]

As the title says im looking for a good Insulation resistance tester/multimeter. I have been looking at the Fluke 1587 but it's out of my price range.
Can anyone reccomend a less expensive one?

[Quality]

Alphatec do some reasonably priced equipment also kew which is similar to robin meters both available from CEF

[nike123]

[/URL]
[URL]http://video.asterpix.com/v/211862161/uni-t-ut532-insulation-resistance-multimeter-new-for-2009/ (http://www.uni-trend.com/UT511.html)

[marc5180]

I'll go into CEF today and have a look.

Nike; can't find any info on that model, where can i find a stockist?

[nike123]

I'll go into CEF today and have a look.

Nike; can't find any info on that model, where can i find a stockist?


http://www.uni-trend.com/portfolio.html

For stockist, try Google "uni trend UK" or contact them by e-mail.

[marc5180]

Is this the same one Nike?
http://www.radio-factory.com/unit-ut532-insulation-resistance-meter-voltage-irm-dvm-p-3531.html?zenid=4eb7c44984ecda32b3058b4c9fce0393

Does it work by sending voltage down the winding like a megger?

[chemi-cool]

look for Greenlee on ebay,
TES-1600 also very good, I have one for years now,

Don't be afraid to buy second hand, good tools last for almost ever.

[marc5180]

Thanks Chemi.

Are insulation resistance meters the same as meggers?

[chemi-cool]

Yes. Megger is only a brand name.
www.megger.com

[Quality]

Just clear you query a megger is called so because it measures mega ohms hence most people refer to insulation resistance testers that measure these large resistances as meggers, its a bit like hoovers and stanley knives etc

[marc5180]

So i take it these insulation resistors can generate voltage to send down the winding.

The first pic is of a megger that i have seen before but the 2nd picture just looks like an everyday voltmeter. Do they both do the same job?

[Magoo]

Hi Marc
I use a FluKe 73 as a general multi-meter and for initial meg testing, but several years ago invested in a AVO electronic, with multi-output voltages. Totally reliable and accurate, regularly check it against a couple of resistors. The out put voltages can be dangerous if your hands get in the way.
Generally if you want accurate measurements and information, you need to spend the money for quality.

[TravisAult]

Just for everyone's information:

Here is an example of a meter that can be used for this application.

SMG5 Megohm meter, small, low cost meter for checking compressor insulation.
The SMG5 provides a 1000V voltage source, monitors current and displays the resistance between the test points. Maximum current output is <1mA. It can be used to determine the condition of insulation from winding to ground in a motor, compressor or transformer.
Disconnect the windings and measure the resistance between the windings and ground through the insulation. Determine what a good reading is by comparing your reading to values supplied by the manufacturer of the equipment.
Noticing decreasing insulation resistance levels can forecast problems preventing catastrophic failure.


Predict compressor failure.
1000VDC stresses insulation to measure up to 2000Mohms.
Backlight LCD Display.
Auto off to extend battery life.
Supplied with case, alligator clips and leads with removable tips

[nike123]

Is this the same one Nike?
http://www.radio-factory.com/unit-ut532-insulation-resistance-meter-voltage-irm-dvm-p-3531.html?zenid=4eb7c44984ecda32b3058b4c9fce0393

Does it work by sending voltage down the winding like a megger?


Yes, it is!
That is real megaohm tester/multimeter as you asked!
You could select test voltages.
Check specifications at top.
I have their digital multimeter and it is very good quality.

[marc5180]

How does a 9v battery generate 500v though?

[nike123]

How does a 9v battery generate 500v though?
Inverter!
Diode-capacitor bank!
http://www.electronicsforu.com/electronicsforu/lab/ad.asp?url=/efylinux/circuit/cir41.htm&title=Battery%20Opeated%20High%20Voltage%20Source

[malik55]

Hi Marc
Hioki from Japan is a very good instrument, if you can get in your market, these instruments are cheaper then other brands, but quality is same.

[Quality]

If all your gonna use the tester for is the odd motor etc. then the one suggested by nike would probably do the job. If your gonna use it for electrical instalation testing then a more substantial unit would give you far better battery life. Its horses for courses if you like

[nike123]

If all your gonna use the tester for is the odd motor etc. then the one suggested by nike would probably do the job. If your gonna use it for electrical instalation testing then a more substantial unit would give you far better battery life. Its horses for courses if you like

He is not electrical installations tester guy, he is refrigeration service engineer, and measuring of insulation is something he will do few times a year.
This type of equipment is perfectly suited for that purpose

[Quality]

He is not electrical installations tester guy, he is refrigeration service engineer, and measuring of insulation is something he will do few times a year.
This type of equipment is perfectly suited for that purpose

just depends if he want a mickey mouse meter or not

[nike123]

just depends if he want a mickey mouse meter or not

What makes you think that that meter is "mickey mouse" meter.
Please, give us specifications of non-mickey mouse meter.

[Quality]

I was trying to offer my advice based on my experience , Hence as I suggested the battery life in your average "smaller" meter is very limited