Modify Fluke GFCI tester

[zetsubou]

Hi everyone,
I have a Fluke T+Pro that comes with a GFCI test built in. It's rated at 150 V - 240 V < 12 mA but I require a 30mA test current.
Would this be a simple modification?

[Electro Detective]

Have you tried it?   My Fluke T100 trips any 30ma GFCI/RCD without a problem

They usually trip anywhere between 15 to 25ma anyway.

Give it a try, but make sure you understand and follow the Fluke instructions

 

[zetsubou]

Hey thanks for replying. I've tried it on different brands and types of RCBOs and RCDs, single and three phase. Prongs in Active - Earth, GFCI button to make the +- lights dance but the outlet doesn't trip. I've verified RCD functionality with a solenoid tester.

I had a quick look at the T100 manual and I think it's rated for 10 and 30mA tests. This might explain why it works when the <12mA T+Pro doesn't.

[Zero999]

Perhaps you've got the US version?

In the US, they have one GFCI (as they're known there) per socket, so the trip current can be lower, without nuisance tripping. I believe in Australia, one RCD is used for an entire circuit on a 16A breaker, so a higher tripping current is necessary to avoid nuisance tripping.

I'm always weary about modifying test equipment, especially the type used to test a safety critical device such as an RCD. I strongly recommend you buy one with the correct current setting, rather than modifying it.

[Electro Detective]

Second vote to 'no mods', not worth it from many angles 

It may be the Fluke T+Pro is designed to not trip RCD/GFCIs whilst CAREFULLY prodding around

You could stuff about with external addon tripping resistors, but why risk a bad hair day when gadgets like this for $29 get the job done really well 

www.ebay.com.au/itm/CABAC-POWER-POINT-GPO-TESTER-V2-RCD-TRIP-AUSTRALIA-POWER-OUTLET-230V-10AMP-NEW-/222038857753?hash=item33b28c1819:g:x1gAAOSw~otWdy0r


Datasheet:  www.cabac.com.au/shop/media/Pdf/Product/datasheet/0010/tel1tlv2.pdf


It's nowhere near as comprehensive and detailed as a proper digital RCD tester, nor does it test at 180 degrees polarity,

but with selectable 10ma to 35ma trip settings, you can't beat it as an RCD-GFCI 'go/no go' tester   

I have one as a backup, and when it agrees with the digital unit, I know the RCD/GFCI will trip when it should    

It also tells you at a glance if the power socket is ok.. or miswired and treat someone soon to a Darwin Award   


You could in theory rig up a 240v socket to lead probes adapter if the GPO style doesn't suit your working habits.
I haven't tried it, as I do it the hard way, with long extension cords going to outlets under test, and trip and reset at the board  (note: only when working solo)