‘Sniffing’ out low voltage cable faults

The new Fault Sniffer 2 from Megger provides a simple yet effective way of locating faults on underground low voltage cable networks without the need for complex and costly cable test equipment. With the Fault Sniffer 2, fault location can be carried out while the network is live and, in most cases without digging or drilling, which means that costs, disruption and inconvenience are minimised.

Most cable faults result in burning of the cable sheath and insulation and as the Fault Sniffer 2 detects the gases produced by this burning. A vacuum system sucks the gases into the instrument via a sensor rod, where they are analysed in real-time and the results displayed as a graphical representation of combustion gas concentration. Dual sensor technology is used which allows the instrument to distinguish between combustion gases and other natural gases that may be present in the environment.

To further increase the sensitivity of the Fault Sniffer 2, an auxiliary vacuum pump backpack is available and, when this is used, almost all faults can be detected by the small amount of combustion gas that permeates through cracks in road surfaces and paving, which means that it is rarely necessary to drill holes as an aid to gas detection.

“Customers who operate low voltage cable networks told us they wanted a simple way of finding cable faults that didn’t involve costly equipment or specialist skills,” said Tony Walker, Applications Engineer of Megger. “The Fault Sniffer 2 is our solution to this requirement. Of course, cable fault sniffing isn’t new, but our product takes it to a new level. It can detect gas escaping through the tiniest cracks or porosity and it discriminates very effectively against non-combustion gases. It’s small, light and easy to use; we’re confident that it will save network operators a lot of money, time and trouble.”

The Fault Sniffer 2 is supplied as a complete kit that, as well as the instrument itself, includes a multi-probe sensor, an EFi filter set, a charger for 230 V AC supplies and a charging lead for 12 V DC vehicle supplies. All items are contained in a robust protective case with a carrying strap. Optionally available is an extension set vacuum pump system contained in a convenient backpack.