Extech 380976-K 1000 A AC Power Clamp Meter Kit, 1 and 3 Phase

Extech 380976-K 1000 A AC power clamp meter, 1-phase and 3-phase

The Extech 380976-K is a 1000 A AC power clamp meter that goes beyond current and voltage to measure true power (kW), apparent power (kVA), reactive power (kVAR), horsepower, power factor and phase angle on single-phase and three-phase circuits. It is supplied as a kit with a Type K thermocouple probe, a full set of test leads, a carrying case and a 9 V battery.

The 380976-K also covers the day-to-day multimeter jobs: AC/DC voltage with frequency, capacitance to 7000 µF, resistance to 100 MΩ, Type K temperature, diode and continuity. A micro-amp AC+DC range with 10 nA resolution supports flame-rod tests on burners.

Technical specifications of the 380976-K

The figures above come from the 380976-K datasheet; the kit is rated Category III for industrial measurements.

What power measurements the 380976-K makes possible

On a motor or generator circuit, current alone does not tell you the real load. The 380976-K calculates true power, apparent power and power factor, so a technician can see whether a motor is lightly loaded, whether a transformer is carrying reactive current, and whether power factor correction is needed. The phase angle with lead/lag indicator shows whether the load is inductive or capacitive.

Max/Min recording with elapsed time lets the meter capture the highest and lowest currents or temperatures during a start-up. The horsepower reading gives a quick estimate of mechanical load on a motor, which helps decide whether a pump is running at its intended duty.

Where the 380976-K is used

• Motor and generator installation and repair, checking running current, power factor and kW against nameplate.
• AC power evaluation on feeders and panels before and after load changes.
• HVAC flame-rod tests using the micro-amp range with 10 nA resolution.
• Temperature and current capture of equipment during trials using Max/Min.
• Capacitor checks up to 7000 µF, such as motor start and run capacitors.

For simple current work, a standard clamp such as the Extech MA1500 or MA440 series is lower cost; the 380976-K is selected when power, power factor and phase angle are needed.

Selection checklist for the 380976-K

• Confirm that you need power (kW, kVA, kVAR) and power factor, not only current.
• Check that 1000 A and 600 V cover the circuits you will test.
• Confirm the jaw (40 mm) fits your cables.
• Decide whether the Type K thermocouple and micro-amp range are needed.
• Confirm the use of a 9 V battery and the need for spare leads.

Using the 380976-K safely and accurately

Use the supplied CAT IV 600 V leads and probes for voltage measurements, keep fingers behind the guards, and follow site electrical safety rules. Clamp around a single conductor for current, with the arrow on the jaw in the direction of current flow for power measurements, so the sign and the lead/lag indication are correct. Use the Max/Min mode to capture start-up peaks, and read the manual section on automatic sleep mode and battery replacement to avoid losing a logged value.

Applications of the 380976-K in Oman and the GCC

Power meter clamps are used by maintenance and commissioning engineers in oil and gas plants, utilities and desalination facilities to check how much real power a pump or fan draws, to evaluate power factor on LV feeders, and to verify generator load. In hot climates, air-conditioning load is a large share of site power, so measuring kW and power factor on chiller and HVAC feeders helps to find equipment that is running inefficiently.

Interpreting power factor readings from the 380976-K

A low power factor on a lightly loaded induction motor is normal, because the magnetizing current is a large part of the total. A persistent low value on a heavily loaded feeder, however, means extra current in cables and transformers and can lead to a tariff penalty or to correction capacitors being specified. Take readings at normal load, note whether the phase angle is leading or lagging, and compare against nameplate data before drawing conclusions. Repeat the measurement on each phase of a three-phase load to spot imbalance.

Information to send with an RFQ for the 380976-K

• Part number 380976-K and the required quantity
• Voltage and current levels of the circuits to be measured
• Whether a calibration certificate is required
• Delivery location in Oman or the GCC and the required lead time
• Whether calibration documentation or a traceable calibration certificate is required

Documents and quotation

A datasheet for the Extech 380976-K is attached on this page. It lists the power, current and temperature ranges.

Send us the part number 380976-K, the quantity and the delivery location in Oman or the GCC, and we will reply with availability and a quotation. Seven Star LLC is an independent supplier in Muscat and is not affiliated with the manufacturer.