Product Details
The Armada Technologies GFL3000™ is a professional-grade "A-Frame" ground fault locator designed to pinpoint the exact location of damage in underground, direct-buried cables. Using the principle of earth gradient theory, the GFL3000™ identifies nicks, cuts, or degraded insulation where electrical current is leaking to the soil. By transmitting a powerful, pulsed high-voltage charge through the targeted wire, the device creates a signal that is easily tracked by the directional A-Frame receiver. As the user moves along the cable path and inserts the A-Frame probes into the ground, a sensitive analog meter "kicks" in the direction of the fault. This precise method eliminates the need for wide-scale exploratory digging, saving contractors and maintenance personnel hours of labor and protecting the surrounding landscape from unnecessary damage.
Key Features:
- Precision Pinpointing: Specifically designed to find the exact "spot" of a ground fault, allowing for localized repairs.
- Dual Power Capability: Selectable Hi/Lo power settings allow you to focus on larger faults or find even the smallest insulation leaks (2400V or 3400V DC output).
- Audible and Visual Feedback: Features an "On" beeper and a clear analog meter that indicates the direction of the fault with distinct needle kicks.
- Rechargeable Transmitter: Includes a 12V rechargeable gel cell battery with both wall and vehicle chargers for all-day field use.
- Durable Field Construction: The transmitter is housed in a rugged, custom-molded case, and the A-Frame is built to withstand demanding outdoor environments.
- Voltage Protection: Built-in protection up to 240VAC/400VDC safeguards the unit against accidental contact with live lines.
Specifications:
- Power Output: 2400V or 3400V DC (Selectable)
- Transmitter Power: 12V Rechargeable Battery (Included)
- Receiver Power: 9V Alkaline Battery (Not Included)
- Transmitter Weight: 9 lbs.
- A-Frame Weight: 3 lbs.
- Operating Frequency: Pulsed approximately every 2 seconds
- Warranty: 12-Month Manufacturer Warranty
Operation & Maintenance Tips:
- Identifying the Fault: Follow the direction of the needle kicks. When you pass the fault, the needle will reverse its kick direction, indicating the fault is between your last two insertion points.
- The "Good Ground" Rule: For maximum signal strength, ensure the ground stake is driven deeply into moist soil. If the area is dry, adding a small amount of water to the stake site can improve conductivity.
- Path Locating: Note that the GFL3000™ is a fault pinpointer, not a cable tracker. For best results, use a cable locator (like the Armada Pro900™) first to map the path of the wire.
- Battery Prep: The transmitter battery is typically shipped disconnected; ensure you connect the leads under the control panel before first use.
Common Uses/Applications:
- Irrigation Repair: Finding bad underground splices or shovel-cut wires in 24V sprinkler systems.
- Landscape Lighting: Pinpointing current leaks in 12V low-voltage cable that cause transformers to trip.
- Utility Maintenance: Locating insulation failures in direct-buried secondary power lines or telecom cables.
Common Questions:
- Q: Does the GFL3000™ tell me how deep the wire is?
- A: No, the GFL3000™ is designed to find the horizontal location of the fault. Use an Armada Pro-series locator to determine depth.
- Q: Can I use this on a live electrical circuit?
- A: No. You must de-energize and disconnect the wire from its power source (controller or breaker) before attaching the GFL3000™ transmitter.
- Q: Will it work through concrete or asphalt?
- A: The A-Frame probes must make contact with the earth. In areas with pavement, you may need to use wet sponges or find small gaps/cracks to achieve a ground connection.
The Armada Technologies GFL3000™ is the industry-standard solution for turning hours of underground troubleshooting into minutes of precision repair.