General
Measurement frequency	128 Samples pro Zyklus
Number of voltage inputs	4

The PEL115 from Chauvin Arnoux is a 4-channel three-phase power recorder designed for continuous measurement and recording of electrical parameters in industrial, infrastructure, and energy-intensive applications. The device features a robust field enclosure with protection rating IP67, making it suitable for outdoor use, such as on power poles, or in humid and dusty environments. It enables measurement of voltages up to 1 000 V AC/DC and currents up to 10 kA AC and 5 kA DC, depending on the current transformer used. Measurements include active, reactive, and apparent power, active and reactive energy, as well as parameters such as cos φ, tan Φ, power factor PF, crest factor, and THD for voltages and currents. The device class allows RMS and DC measurements with a sampling rate of 128 samples per cycle per phase, enabling precise analysis even during transient events.

Applications

The PEL115 is used in various industries, including power generation such as photovoltaic, wind, and thermal power plants, process industries (e.g. metalworking, glass, and paper industries), residential and commercial buildings, as well as infrastructure and transportation facilities. It is particularly useful for energy audits, electrical diagnostics, and preventive maintenance. In data centres, it helps monitor power consumption of servers and cooling systems to prevent failures and reduce costs. The device class is also suitable for marine applications, as it supports measurements at 50 Hz, 60 Hz, and 400 Hz.

Functions and Equipment in Detail

The device features four voltage and four current inputs, enabling comprehensive monitoring of three-phase systems. It provides breakdown of energy losses, analysis of fundamental and symmetrical active powers, and characterisation of electric drives. The Android app enables motor diagnostics, including measurement of speed, efficiency, and torque without mechanical sensors. Self-powering via the phase reduces dependency on external power sources. Measured values are stored on an SD card, with recording durations lasting several months.

Technology Explained Simply

The protection rating IP67 means the device is dust-tight and short-term waterproof, making it suitable for outdoor or humid environments. Measurements are performed using RMS and DC methods, where RMS measurement captures the effective values of alternating voltages and currents regardless of waveform shape. DC measurement captures direct voltages and currents. THD calculation (Total Harmonic Distortion) indicates the proportion of harmonics in the signal, which is important for assessing power quality. Automatic detection of connected current transformer types simplifies commissioning.

Compatibility and Accessories

The PEL115 can be combined with various accessories, including adapter enclosures (e.g. 5A (F), Essailec), coloured identification parts, crocodile clips, rubber plugs for inputs, clamps (e.g. MINI94, MN93A, C193, J93, PAC93), Ampflex and Miniflex models (e.g. A193-800mm, A196A-610 mm IP67, MA196-350 mm IP67, MA194-250 mm, MA194-350 mm), and a Reeling Box with magnet. The DataView and PEL Transfer software enable configuration, data transfer, and evaluation of measurement results. The PEL Transfer software can also convert power consumption into Euros based on eight tariff zones.

Mounting and Installation

The device can be mounted at the top of a power pole using a supplied mounting kit. Installation can be performed without interrupting the network power supply. The large, backlit display is clearly readable under all environmental conditions. Communication is via USB, Ethernet RJ45, Wi-Fi (Server), or Wi-Fi (Access Point), allowing flexible integration into existing networks.

Operational Advantages

The PEL115 enables detailed analysis of energy consumption and electrical systems. Long recording durations and robust construction ensure reliable long-term measurement. Integrated software support and the ability to remotely transmit data simplify evaluation and documentation. Motor diagnostic functions expand its application in industrial maintenance. The device class is suitable for use in refrigerated rooms down to -20°C, ensuring broad applicability in various environments.