Fluke 1587 FC Insulation Tester Multimeter Review

Why Insulation Testing Matters in Predictive Maintenance

Electrical insulation is one of the most critical elements protecting motors, cables, transformers, and industrial equipment from failure. Over time, heat, moisture, vibration, and contamination gradually degrade insulation resistance. If this degradation is not detected early, it can lead to unexpected equipment shutdown or electrical hazards.

The Fluke 1587 FC Insulation Multimeter is designed to simplify this diagnostic process by combining a full-featured True‑RMS digital multimeter with a high‑voltage insulation tester in one rugged handheld instrument. This dual‑function approach allows technicians to perform insulation verification and electrical troubleshooting without switching instruments.

What Makes the Fluke 1587 FC Different

• 2‑in‑1 design: Combines a True‑RMS digital multimeter with a 1000 V insulation resistance tester.
• Wide insulation measurement range: From 0.01 MΩ up to 2 GΩ for evaluating motor windings and cable insulation.
• Multiple test voltages: 50 V, 100 V, 250 V, 500 V, and 1000 V for testing different electrical systems.
• Fluke Connect compatibility: Wireless measurement logging and trending through the mobile app.
• PI/DAR diagnostic tests: Time‑based insulation tests that help identify moisture contamination and insulation aging.
• Low‑pass filter: Improves voltage measurement accuracy when working with variable frequency drives (VFDs).
• Live circuit detection: Prevents insulation testing if voltage greater than 30 V is detected.

Advanced Diagnostic Capabilities

Unlike standard megohmmeters, the Fluke 1587 FC includes intelligent diagnostic tools designed for industrial maintenance programs. The instrument supports Polarization Index (PI) and Dielectric Absorption Ratio (DAR) testing, which evaluate how insulation resistance changes over time.

When used with the Fluke Connect Measurements App, results can be stored, graphed, and analyzed using TrendIt™ graphs. These trends allow technicians to detect gradual insulation degradation long before a failure occurs.

This capability is particularly valuable for:

• Industrial motor maintenance
• Preventive testing of pump systems
• HVAC compressor diagnostics
• Transformer insulation evaluation
• Cable installation verification

Full Multimeter Functionality

In addition to insulation testing, the Fluke 1587 FC functions as a complete professional digital multimeter capable of measuring common electrical parameters required for troubleshooting industrial equipment.

• AC and DC voltage measurement
• AC and DC milliamps
• Resistance and continuity testing
• Capacitance measurement
• Frequency and duty cycle
• Diode testing
• Temperature measurement using a K‑type thermocouple
• Min / Max / Average recording

The instrument uses True‑RMS measurement technology, ensuring accurate readings even in non‑linear electrical environments common in industrial facilities.

Technical Specifications

Where the Fluke 1587 FC Excels

The Fluke 1587 FC is particularly useful for professionals who need both insulation testing and electrical measurement in a single instrument. This reduces tool switching and improves efficiency during troubleshooting.

Typical environments where this instrument performs best include:

• Industrial maintenance departments
• Motor repair workshops
• Electrical contractors performing commissioning tests
• Preventive maintenance teams
• Facilities management for critical infrastructure