| Cable diameter/ Pincer opening max. | 50 mm |
| Accuracy, AC current measurement | 0.5 % |
| Accuracy, AC voltage measurement | 0.5 % |
Current probes
A current clamp is a device used to measure direct and alternating currents in current-carrying conductors. With the help of its ring-shaped measuring clamp, which resembles the head of a pair of pliers, it can measure the magnetic flux density around the conductor and ultimately also its current strength. For this purpose, a so-called Hall effect sensor is located at the gap opening of the measuring terminal. This makes use of the Hall effect, which always occurs when a current-carrying conductor is in a stationary magnetic field. Under the influence of the field, the Lorentz force acts on the electrons in the conductor. They are deflected, creating a voltage in the conductor perpendicular to the current flow and the direction of the magnetic field. If, in addition to the magnitude of this voltage, the magnetic flux density is also known, the current intensity in the conductor under investigation can be calculated. And it is precisely this task that current clamps perform in the conventional sense. Of the devices currently on the market, most offer other features such as voltage and resistance measurement.
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| Cable diameter/ Pincer opening max. | 40 mm |
| Accuracy, AC current measurement | 1.5 % |
| Accuracy, AC voltage measurement | 1.5 % |
| Cable diameter/ Pincer opening max. | 55 mm |
| Accuracy, AC current measurement | 1 % |
| Accuracy, AC voltage measurement | 0.5 % |
| Accuracy, DC current measurement | 3 % |
| Accuracy, AC current measurement | 2.8 to 3 % |
| DC measurement range | 2 to 80 A |
| Accuracy, DC current measurement | 2.8 % |
| Accuracy, AC current measurement | 3 % |
| DC measurement range | 200 A |
| Accuracy, DC voltage measurement | 1.5 % |
| Accuracy, DC current measurement | 2 % |
| Accuracy, AC current measurement | 2 to 3 % |
| Accuracy, DC voltage measurement | 1 % |
| Accuracy, DC current measurement | 2 % |
| Accuracy, AC current measurement | 2.5 % |
Application and fields of application of current clamps
The application of current clamps is derived from the measuring principle: As long as the gap of their measuring clamp is large enough, they can be held to any live conductor - regardless of whether they are supply lines in control cabinets or whether the cables are freely routed between devices. In electrical installations, current clamps are used to measure currents on individual branch circuits on distribution boards. In the industrial field, it is common to use clamp meters to measure the currents of the supply lines or branch circuits at the control panel. Other applications include control cabinets, three-phase induction motors and electromagnetic compatibility (EMC), where current clamps can be used to detect interference and leakage currents.
What are current clamp meters and how do they work?
Current clamp meters are measuring devices that are used to measure electrical current. They are often used by electricians, technicians and engineers to monitor the flow of current in an electrical system.
A current clamp consists of two clamp jaws that are placed around an electrical conductor. When the current flows through the conductor, it generates a magnetic field around the conductor. The current clamp detects this magnetic field using Hall sensors or other magnetic sensors and converts it into an electrical signal.
The electrical signal is then amplified and shown on a display. The display shows the measured current in amperes (A). Some current clamp meters can also display other measured values such as voltage, resistance and frequency.
Current clamp meters offer the advantage that they do not have to interrupt the current flow or cut the cable in order to carry out measurements. They are therefore particularly useful in situations where continuous current monitoring is required, such as when troubleshooting electrical systems or checking power consumers.
A current clamp consists of two clamp jaws that are placed around an electrical conductor. When the current flows through the conductor, it generates a magnetic field around the conductor. The current clamp detects this magnetic field using Hall sensors or other magnetic sensors and converts it into an electrical signal.
The electrical signal is then amplified and shown on a display. The display shows the measured current in amperes (A). Some current clamp meters can also display other measured values such as voltage, resistance and frequency.
Current clamp meters offer the advantage that they do not have to interrupt the current flow or cut the cable in order to carry out measurements. They are therefore particularly useful in situations where continuous current monitoring is required, such as when troubleshooting electrical systems or checking power consumers.
What different types of clamp-on ammeters are there and what are they used for?
There are different types of current clamps that are used for different applications. Here are some common types:
1. AC current measuring clamps: These are used to measure the alternating current in an electrical system. They are generally designed for low currents and can be used for various applications such as household appliances, lighting systems or electrical circuits.
2. DC clamp meters: These are used to measure the direct current in an electrical system. They are generally designed for higher currents and can be used in applications such as electric motors, batteries or solar systems.
3. True RMS clamps: These clamp meters can measure both AC and DC current and provide an accurate measurement regardless of the type of current. They are often used in industrial applications where both AC and DC components may be present.
4. Power clamps: These clamp meters can measure not only the current, but also the voltage and other parameters such as power, apparent power and power factor. They are often used to monitor energy consumption in industrial plants.
5. Pliers with current clamp adapter: These measuring clamps are equipped with an adapter that allows the clamp to be connected to a multimeter. This allows you to measure and monitor the current in conjunction with other electrical parameters.
These are just some of the different types of current clamps available on the market. Each type has its own specific applications and choosing the right pliers depends on the requirements of the application.
1. AC current measuring clamps: These are used to measure the alternating current in an electrical system. They are generally designed for low currents and can be used for various applications such as household appliances, lighting systems or electrical circuits.
2. DC clamp meters: These are used to measure the direct current in an electrical system. They are generally designed for higher currents and can be used in applications such as electric motors, batteries or solar systems.
3. True RMS clamps: These clamp meters can measure both AC and DC current and provide an accurate measurement regardless of the type of current. They are often used in industrial applications where both AC and DC components may be present.
4. Power clamps: These clamp meters can measure not only the current, but also the voltage and other parameters such as power, apparent power and power factor. They are often used to monitor energy consumption in industrial plants.
5. Pliers with current clamp adapter: These measuring clamps are equipped with an adapter that allows the clamp to be connected to a multimeter. This allows you to measure and monitor the current in conjunction with other electrical parameters.
These are just some of the different types of current clamps available on the market. Each type has its own specific applications and choosing the right pliers depends on the requirements of the application.
What advantages do current clamp meters offer compared to other measuring methods?
Current clamps offer a number of advantages compared to other measuring methods:
1. Non-invasive measurement: Current clamps can measure the current flow in an electrical system without having to interrupt the lines or cables. This enables quick and easy measurement without affecting the operation of the system.
2. Security: As current clamps do not interfere with the electrical system, there is no risk of electric shock or other potentially dangerous situations. This is particularly important when it comes to measuring the current in high-voltage lines or other hazardous environments.
3. Versatility: Current clamps are available in different sizes and shapes and can be used for a variety of applications. They can be used for direct and alternating current measurements and are capable of measuring large currents.
4. Easy handling: Current clamp meters are easy to use and require no special knowledge or skills. They can be used by technicians, electricians and other professionals to carry out current measurements quickly and efficiently.
5. Accuracy: Modern current clamp meters are able to perform accurate measurements and often offer additional functions such as data recording, storage and wireless transmission of measured values.
6. Cost savings: The use of current clamps can save time and costs for the installation of measuring devices or the interruption of the circuit. This enables efficient and cost-effective current measurement.
Overall, current clamps offer a convenient, safe and accurate method of measuring the current flow in electrical systems. They are versatile and suitable for a wide range of applications in various industries.
1. Non-invasive measurement: Current clamps can measure the current flow in an electrical system without having to interrupt the lines or cables. This enables quick and easy measurement without affecting the operation of the system.
2. Security: As current clamps do not interfere with the electrical system, there is no risk of electric shock or other potentially dangerous situations. This is particularly important when it comes to measuring the current in high-voltage lines or other hazardous environments.
3. Versatility: Current clamps are available in different sizes and shapes and can be used for a variety of applications. They can be used for direct and alternating current measurements and are capable of measuring large currents.
4. Easy handling: Current clamp meters are easy to use and require no special knowledge or skills. They can be used by technicians, electricians and other professionals to carry out current measurements quickly and efficiently.
5. Accuracy: Modern current clamp meters are able to perform accurate measurements and often offer additional functions such as data recording, storage and wireless transmission of measured values.
6. Cost savings: The use of current clamps can save time and costs for the installation of measuring devices or the interruption of the circuit. This enables efficient and cost-effective current measurement.
Overall, current clamps offer a convenient, safe and accurate method of measuring the current flow in electrical systems. They are versatile and suitable for a wide range of applications in various industries.
How accurate are current clamp meters and what accuracy classes are there?
Current clamps are measuring devices that are used to measure the electrical current in a conductor without contact. They consist of a clamp that is placed around the conductor and a measuring device that displays the measured current value.
The accuracy of current clamp meters is normally specified in the form of an accuracy class. The accuracy class indicates how accurate the measurement results of the device are. The lower the accuracy class, the more accurate the measuring device.
There are different accuracy classes offered by the manufacturers, for example:
- Accuracy class 0.1: This class offers the highest accuracy and is normally used in laboratory environments.
- Accuracy class 0.2: This class offers high accuracy and is often used in industrial applications.
- Accuracy class 0.5: This class offers good accuracy and is often used in industrial electrical installations.
- Accuracy class 1: This class offers sufficient accuracy and is often used for general measurements.
It is important to select the correct accuracy class for the specific application. In some cases, such as precision measurements in laboratories, a higher accuracy class may be required. In other cases, such as general current measurements in industry, a lower accuracy class may be sufficient.
The accuracy of current clamp meters is normally specified in the form of an accuracy class. The accuracy class indicates how accurate the measurement results of the device are. The lower the accuracy class, the more accurate the measuring device.
There are different accuracy classes offered by the manufacturers, for example:
- Accuracy class 0.1: This class offers the highest accuracy and is normally used in laboratory environments.
- Accuracy class 0.2: This class offers high accuracy and is often used in industrial applications.
- Accuracy class 0.5: This class offers good accuracy and is often used in industrial electrical installations.
- Accuracy class 1: This class offers sufficient accuracy and is often used for general measurements.
It is important to select the correct accuracy class for the specific application. In some cases, such as precision measurements in laboratories, a higher accuracy class may be required. In other cases, such as general current measurements in industry, a lower accuracy class may be sufficient.
What parameters can be measured with current clamps, apart from amperage?
In addition to the current, the following parameters can also be measured with a current clamp meter:
1. Voltage: Most current clamp meters also have the option of measuring voltages. The clamp is simply placed around the cable or conductor to be measured and the voltage can be read off.
2. Frequency: Some modern current clamp meters can also determine the frequency of the measured current. This is particularly relevant for AC applications.
3. Resistance: Some current clamps also offer the option of measuring the resistance of an electrical component or conductor. The clamp is placed around the resistance to be measured and the value can be read off.
4. Capacity: Some special current clamps are also able to measure the capacitance of a capacitor. The clamp is placed around the capacitor and the capacitance can be read off.
5. Temperature: There are also current clamps that have an integrated temperature sensor and can therefore measure the temperature of a conductor or component.
It is important to note that not all current clamp meters have these additional functions. The available parameters depend on the respective current clamp.
1. Voltage: Most current clamp meters also have the option of measuring voltages. The clamp is simply placed around the cable or conductor to be measured and the voltage can be read off.
2. Frequency: Some modern current clamp meters can also determine the frequency of the measured current. This is particularly relevant for AC applications.
3. Resistance: Some current clamps also offer the option of measuring the resistance of an electrical component or conductor. The clamp is placed around the resistance to be measured and the value can be read off.
4. Capacity: Some special current clamps are also able to measure the capacitance of a capacitor. The clamp is placed around the capacitor and the capacitance can be read off.
5. Temperature: There are also current clamps that have an integrated temperature sensor and can therefore measure the temperature of a conductor or component.
It is important to note that not all current clamp meters have these additional functions. The available parameters depend on the respective current clamp.
What special features must be taken into account when using current clamps?
The following special features should be observed when using current clamps:
1. Security: Before using the clamp meter, read and follow the manufacturer's applicable safety regulations and instructions. This includes wearing protective equipment such as insulating gloves and safety goggles.
2. Correct application: The current clamp should be placed correctly around the cable or conductor to be measured. Make sure that the cable fits completely into the measuring opening and is not disconnected or damaged.
3. Measurement range: The measuring range of the current clamp should be set before the measurement. Make sure that the expected current value is within the selected measuring range. Current clamps with an appropriate measuring range should be used for measurements with high currents.
4. influence on the measurement: Current clamps can influence the current flow by their presence. It is therefore important that the measuring clamp is placed as close as possible to the measuring point in order to minimize the influence on the measurement.
5. Calibration: Current clamps should be calibrated regularly to ensure accurate measurement. Calibration should be carried out in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations.
6. Display and reading: The values shown on the display of the current clamp meter should be read and interpreted carefully. Care must be taken to ensure that the units and scales are correctly understood in order to obtain accurate measurement results.
7. Maintenance: Current clamps should be cleaned and maintained regularly to ensure optimum performance and accuracy. The manufacturer's recommendations for maintenance and care should be followed.
It is important that these special features are observed when using current clamps in order to carry out accurate and safe measurements and avoid possible damage or injury.
1. Security: Before using the clamp meter, read and follow the manufacturer's applicable safety regulations and instructions. This includes wearing protective equipment such as insulating gloves and safety goggles.
2. Correct application: The current clamp should be placed correctly around the cable or conductor to be measured. Make sure that the cable fits completely into the measuring opening and is not disconnected or damaged.
3. Measurement range: The measuring range of the current clamp should be set before the measurement. Make sure that the expected current value is within the selected measuring range. Current clamps with an appropriate measuring range should be used for measurements with high currents.
4. influence on the measurement: Current clamps can influence the current flow by their presence. It is therefore important that the measuring clamp is placed as close as possible to the measuring point in order to minimize the influence on the measurement.
5. Calibration: Current clamps should be calibrated regularly to ensure accurate measurement. Calibration should be carried out in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations.
6. Display and reading: The values shown on the display of the current clamp meter should be read and interpreted carefully. Care must be taken to ensure that the units and scales are correctly understood in order to obtain accurate measurement results.
7. Maintenance: Current clamps should be cleaned and maintained regularly to ensure optimum performance and accuracy. The manufacturer's recommendations for maintenance and care should be followed.
It is important that these special features are observed when using current clamps in order to carry out accurate and safe measurements and avoid possible damage or injury.
Which manufacturers offer high-quality clamp meters and which are particularly recommended?
There are many manufacturers who offer high-quality current clamp meters. Some of the best known and recommended manufacturers are:
1. Fluke: Fluke is one of the leading manufacturers of measuring instruments and offers a wide range of current clamp meters. Their products are characterized by high accuracy and reliability.
2. Chauvin Arnoux: Chauvin Arnoux is a renowned manufacturer of measuring and testing devices and also offers high-quality current clamp meters. They are known for their innovative technology and user-friendly products.
3. Metrel: Metrel is another manufacturer of measuring devices that offers high-quality current clamp meters. Their products are characterized by their robustness and precision.
4. Extech: Extech is a well-known manufacturer of measuring and testing devices and offers a wide range of current clamps. Its products are characterized by their good price-performance ratio.
It is important to note that the choice of the right clamp meter depends on individual requirements. It is advisable to compare different models and pay attention to customer reviews and recommendations in order to find the right clamp meter for your needs.
1. Fluke: Fluke is one of the leading manufacturers of measuring instruments and offers a wide range of current clamp meters. Their products are characterized by high accuracy and reliability.
2. Chauvin Arnoux: Chauvin Arnoux is a renowned manufacturer of measuring and testing devices and also offers high-quality current clamp meters. They are known for their innovative technology and user-friendly products.
3. Metrel: Metrel is another manufacturer of measuring devices that offers high-quality current clamp meters. Their products are characterized by their robustness and precision.
4. Extech: Extech is a well-known manufacturer of measuring and testing devices and offers a wide range of current clamps. Its products are characterized by their good price-performance ratio.
It is important to note that the choice of the right clamp meter depends on individual requirements. It is advisable to compare different models and pay attention to customer reviews and recommendations in order to find the right clamp meter for your needs.