Are you an electrician or an aspiring electrician looking for ammeter clamps as a tool to aid your work?

In this article, we will describe the various existing typologies and where to buy ammeter clamps. Come along and find out all the details!

What is an ammeter clamp?

We start with the basics: An ammeter clamp, also known as an ammeter clamp or ampere clamp, is a tool used to measure electric current in a conductor without the need to interrupt the circuit. Ammeter clamps are designed to be safe and convenient, allowing electricians and technicians to obtain accurate current readings without having to disconnect wires.

The ammeter clamp operates based on the principle of electromagnetic induction. It has a clamp-shaped opening that allows the user to "clamp" the tool around the electrical conductor. The clamp contains a current sensor, typically a coil, that detects the magnetic field generated by the current flowing through the conductor.

By closing the clamp around the conductor, the device measures the magnetic field induced by the electric current and converts this information into a current reading. Thus, the ammeter clamp provides a quick and safe way to measure current in a circuit without the need to directly touch the wires.

It is important to note that ammeter clamps are designed to measure alternating currents (AC) and, in some cases, may offer the ability to measure voltage, resistance, and electrical frequency. They are essential tools for professionals working with electricity, installation, and maintenance of electrical equipment.

What are the main functions of an ammeter clamp?
 

An ammeter clamp is a versatile and multifunctional tool that offers various electrical measurement capabilities. Here are some of the main functions of an ammeter clamp:

• Current Measurement (AC and DC): The main function is to measure the electric current flowing through a conductor without the need to interrupt the circuit.
   
• Voltage Measurement (AC and DC): Many ammeter clamps have the capability to measure electrical voltage in circuits, both in alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC).
   
• Resistance Measurement: Some ammeter clamps allow the measurement of electrical resistance in components or conductors.
  
• Frequency Measurement: In some models, it is possible to measure the frequency of the electrical signal, which can be useful for various applications.
   
• True RMS (Root Mean Square): Advanced models may offer True RMS function, providing accurate measurements in non-sinusoidal current signals.
   
• Non-Contact Voltage Detection (NCV): Some ammeter clamps have the ability to detect voltage without contact, alerting to the presence of voltage in a conductor.
   
• Data Logging: There are advanced ammeter clamps that can log data over time, allowing for more detailed analysis of energy consumption patterns.
   
• Hold Mode: Allows the user to temporarily freeze the reading on the display, facilitating viewing and recording of measured values.
   
• Auto Range and Manual Range: Auto Range automatically adjusts the measurement scale, while Manual Range allows the user to manually select the desired range.
   
• Display Backlight: Some models have a backlight on the display, which is useful in low-light environments.
   
• Auto Power Off: Saves energy by automatically turning off the ammeter clamp after a period of inactivity.

But there are different types of ammeter clamps... Which one should you buy?

 

It's true that there are various types of ammeter clamps available in the market, each with specific features to meet different needs and applications. At Aquário Eletrónica store, you can find all types of ammeter clamps available.

Here's a description of some of the most common types to help you in the purchasing process:

• Ampere Clamp for Alternating Current (AC): This clamp is designed to measure alternating current in electrical circuits and applies to residential and industrial environments where the current is predominantly alternating.

Power Quality Ammeter Clamp

• Direct Current (DC) Ammeter Clamp: Specifically designed to measure direct current in electrical circuits. It is very useful in systems that use direct current, such as in solar power applications or industrial electronics.

Milliamp Process Ammeter Clamp

• True RMS Ammeter Clamp: This option provides more accurate measurements on non-sinusoidal current signals, considering the actual waveform. It is used in situations where waveforms are not purely sinusoidal, such as in variable frequency drives.

AC-DC 600A True RMS Ammeter Clamp

• Low Current Ammeter Clamp: This clamp is designed to measure low-level currents, useful in applications where the current is very small. It is often used in low-power electronics, such as consumer devices and sensor measurements.

AC 400A Ammeter Clamp

• Wide Opening Ammeter Clamp: This is an ammeter clamp with a larger opening to accommodate thicker conductors or cable bundles. It is used in situations where the conductors are bulkier.
   
• Integrated Multimeter Ammeter Clamp: It combines the functionalities of an ammeter clamp with a multimeter, allowing additional measurements such as voltage, resistance, among others. This is a very versatile clamp for professionals who need various electrical measurements in a single tool.
   
• General-Purpose Ammeter Clamp: This is a clamp that offers a variety of functions and is useful for various electrical applications.

Multifunction 1000A AC Ammeter Clamp MULT022 Nimo

Discover all types of ammeter clamps on the online store of Aquário Eletrónica and in the physical stores in Lisbon and Porto. Our specialized technicians are available to clarify all your doubts and advise you to make the best purchase, without blowing any fuses! Visit us at aquario.pt!