Reliable ground resistance measurement in extreme outdoor conditions

Bára Škorpíková
Bára Škorpíková
22. 10. 2025

Ground resistance measurements are essential to verify the proper operation of grounding systems after installation and during periodic maintenance. It is carried out worldwide in a variety of environments where technicians are faced with different soil types, climatic conditions and often extreme weather conditions. These factors place a significant strain on the measurement technology and test its durability and reliability.

This article summarises the main challenges associated with measuring earth resistance in harsh environments and shows how the Hioki FT6041 earth resistance tester meets these demands - ensuring accurate measurements and stable performance regardless of the surrounding environment.

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Problems and challenges

Ground resistance measurements are usually performed outdoors where the instruments are exposed to the weather. This can be extreme heat in excess of 40 °C in desert areas or freezing temperatures in winter months. In addition, the equipment must withstand dust, splashing water or direct rain without failure. The reliability of the device in the field also depends on its ability to withstand accidental contact with water and physical shock.

Solution

The Hioki FT6041 grounding tester is designed to meet these stringent requirements and provide exceptional durability and reliability.

  • Resistance to extreme temperatures
    The FT6041 operates reliably over a wide temperature range from -25°C to +65°C. This ensures accurate measurements even when used for long periods in extreme heat or cold, making it suitable for year-round operation in any climate.

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  • IP67 protection against dust and water
    Working in the field often means exposure to dust, mud and rain - factors that can damage the instrument. The FT6041 offers IP67 protection to prevent dirt and water from entering the interior of the instrument. Thanks to its rugged construction, the unit can be simply rinsed with water in the event of dirt, greatly increasing confidence and comfort when working in the field.

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  • Drop resistance from 1 metre
    When working in the field, there is no avoiding the occasional accidental fall. The FT6041 is designed to withstand a fall from a height of 1 meter onto concrete when equipped with a protective cover. This structural durability minimizes the risk of damage and allows technicians to concentrate on the job at hand without worrying about the unit.

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Conclusion

The Hioki FT6041 effectively handles a variety of challenges associated with measuring earth resistance in harsh environments. With its rugged design, wide operating temperature range, excellent dust and water protection and shock resistance, it delivers reliable performance anywhere in the field. This tester guarantees accurate measurements even in extreme conditions - see the FT6041 product page to learn more about its features and applications.