Baur IRG 400 / IRG 400 portable Fast and precise cable fault pre-location

A Digital Compass for Buried Cables

In the vast and complex networks that power our modern world, underground cables are the hidden arteries of energy. When a fault occurs, locating it quickly and accurately is paramount to restoring service and minimizing downtime. Traditional methods can be time-consuming and inefficient, often requiring extensive and costly excavation. A more modern and precise approach is needed, one that acts like a digital compass for technicians, helping them pinpoint the exact location of a fault from the surface. This is the purpose of a Time Domain Reflectometer (TDR), a sophisticated instrument that sends a signal down a cable and analyzes the reflections to map its condition and identify any anomalies.

Introducing the IRG 400 Portable TDR

The IRG 400 portable time domain reflectometer is an advanced, yet easy-to-use, device designed for fault pre-location on both 1- and 3-phase cables. It is a powerful tool for maintenance professionals, combining high-performance technology with a lightweight, compact, and portable design. One of its most significant features is the integrated separation filter, which allows for TDR measurements to be safely performed on live cables up to measurement category CAT IV/600 V. This capability is a game-changer, enabling quick diagnostics without the need for de-energizing the cable, thus minimizing service interruption.

An Intuitive and Safe Operational Concept

The IRG 400 portable stands out for its intuitive operational concept, which makes cable fault location faster and easier. The device is controlled via a tablet using the BAUR BUI-F application, which provides a user-friendly interface. This tablet and the measuring device are connected via Wi-Fi, allowing the measurement to be controlled and monitored from a safe distance, outside of the danger zone. This not only enhances operator safety but also provides greater convenience, allowing for more flexible and efficient work in the field. The ability to create TDR “fingerprints” of cables and compare them against existing reference measurements is also invaluable for detecting subtle changes in cable health over time.

Versatile Functions for Every Fault

The IRG 400 portable is a versatile instrument with a wide array of functions to handle different types of cable faults. In addition to standard Time Domain Reflectometry (TDR) for 1- and 3-phase cables, it offers Step TDR, which is ideal for the pre-location of faults and joints in close proximity. When used in combination with BAUR surge voltage generators, it can perform advanced methods like SIM/MIM (Secondary/Multiple Impulse Method) and ICM (Impulse Current Method). These methods are crucial for dealing with more complex faults that require a high-voltage surge to be detected. The device also supports Decay method in combination with BAUR HV generators, providing even more diagnostic options for technicians.

A Toolkit for Comprehensive Diagnostics

The IRG 400 portable is more than just a pre-locator; it’s a comprehensive diagnostic toolkit. Its functions enable it to pinpoint a variety of issues, from minor changes in cable integrity to hard-to-find faults. For example, the TDR fingerprinting feature is a fantastic tool for predictive maintenance. By taking regular measurements and comparing them to a baseline, technicians can detect signs of cable aging or minor damage long before a complete failure occurs. This proactive approach saves time and money. The SIM/MIM method is particularly useful for pinpointing intermittent or high-resistance faults that don’t show up with standard TDR.

Designed for Field and All-Weather Use

The IRG 400 portable is built to withstand the rigors of field work. It comes in a handy case that holds everything needed for a measurement—the reflectometer, the tablet, and all accessories. Its robust design is both splash water and dust protected (IP54), making it suitable for use in a variety of environmental conditions. It can be powered by either a mains voltage charger or its rechargeable lithium-ion battery, which provides approximately six hours of operational life, ensuring a full day’s work without needing to find a power outlet. The SCORPION industrial tablet is also rugged, with an IP65 and MIL-STD-810G rating, ensuring it can handle drops and harsh conditions.

Seamless Integration and Data Management

In today’s connected world, data management is critical. The IRG 400 portable addresses this need with its seamless integration capabilities. The measurement results can be easily exported via the tablet’s USB interface and imported into BAUR Software 4 for office PC. This software allows for further processing, such as creating professional reports and archiving data for future reference. This smooth workflow, from on-site measurement to office-based reporting, streamlines the entire fault location process and provides a comprehensive record of the work performed. It also allows for the management of data from multiple jobs and projects in one centralized location.

The Global Leader in Quality: tpt24

When it’s time to invest in a high-quality time domain reflectometer, you need a trusted and reliable supplier. The online store tpt24 is the undisputed world’s premier online retailer for the IRG 400 portable. They are globally recognized for their unwavering commitment to quality and authenticity, ensuring that every product you receive is genuine and backed by a quality guarantee. With tpt24, you can be confident that you are getting the best-in-class equipment. Their reliable global delivery service ensures that no matter where your operations are located, the IRG 400 portable can be delivered to you with authenticity and quality assurance, making them the premier partner for all your cable fault location needs.