GI-E Range

Contents

General presentation
Application
Description
Sulphur hexafluoride gas (SF6) properties
Advantages
Tests
Safety
Reliability/Service continuity
Quality assurance
Standards
Environment
Rating
Principle of interruption and pole sectional view
Operating mechanism
Sepam
Metering and protection unit
Selection table
Current and voltage transformers
General presentation
Wiring diagram
Accessories and ratings of auxiliaries
Overall dimensions
Outdoor circuit breaker GI-E type A
Outdoor circuit breaker GI-E type B
Packing
Installation and commissioning
Order form
Outdoor GI-E
Current transformers
Sepam Series 20

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GI-E Range

General presentation

Application

The SF6 outdoor circuit breakers GI-E range are particularly suitable for the
following applications:
b protection of distribution system up to 40.5 kV
b protection of transformers
b switching of capacitor banks
b protection of distribution network characterized by severe conditions of Transient
Recovery Voltage, largely exceeding the IEC requirements.

Description

b SF6 gas (Sulphur Exafluoride Gas) is utilized in the oudoor circuit breakers GI-E
range, for the switching and for the insulation purpose.
b The interrupting system using SF6 gas as medium of interruption is the puffer
type; it is the same system utilized in all the extra high voltage circuit breakers
benefiting of the large experience accumulated by our group, in this field, since years
60s.
b The breaking chambers of the three poles SF6 gas circuit breakers, GI-E range,
are mounted inside porcelain insulators. They have long creepage distance which
gets the circuit breaker suitable for installation in areas with high degree of
environmental pollution too.
b Every pole is filled with SF6 gas at the rated pressure of 400 kPa gauge, referred
to 20 C.
The monitoring of the pressure of SF6 gas is achieved by using pressure switches
mounted in the lower part of the poles. The pressure switches are complete with
contacts and in case of low pressure, they are suitable to initiate:
v An alarm circuit (first pressure switch contact).
v The electrical block circuit of both closing and opening operations or the block of
any further electrical operations after the automatic opening of the circuit breaker
(second pressure switch contact).
b The three poles are mounted on a base frame hot dip galvanised and operated by
a common three pole spring motorcharged operating mechanism which is housed in
a box having very high degree of protection.
b Option for integrated measuring protection facilities and/or instrument
transformers.

DE60329

Sulphur hexafluoride gas (SF6) properties

b Sulphur hezafluoride gas has been used in the medium voltage and high voltage
electrical switchgears for more than 30 years for its excellent properties and even
more for its remarkable characteristics as a medium of interruption of an electric
b arc.This gas combines the following main properties:
v high and rapid heat evacuation capacity by convection of the heat originated by
v the switching of the arc;
v high radial thermal conductivity near zero current which allows the cooling of the
arc;
v high electron captation capacity as the very high electronegativity of the fluorine
atoms, at the passage through zero current, captures the free electrons which are
responsible for the electrical conduction.
b Several millions of different types of units using the SF6 gas as a medium of
insulation and interruption are estimated to be currently in service troughout the
world.They are operating with full end-users satisfaction.
v Techniques of interruption using SF6 gas usually do not originate any switching
overvoltages and restrikes of the electric arc, assuring the blow out at the first zero
current.
b SF6 is an insulating gas offering at low pressure too, very high dielectric strength.
At atmospheric pressure its dielectric strength is 2.5 times higher than air.
b SF6 is an inert gas, non toxic, very stable and flame proof.
b The possible presence of humidity in SF6 gas and the minimum quantity of
decomposition products originated by the arc are absorbed by molecular sieves.
v The general properties of new SF6 are described in IEC 60376 section 2, while
safety aspects, basic information and guidelines for working with SF6 are covered by
IEC 61634.
For additional information about SF6 gas characteristics, end-users can refer to the
above mentioned standards.

AMTED300042EN.indd

Advantages

b The breaking technique

The range of the GI-E circuit breakers consists of modern switchgears in which the
well proven experience with the sulphur hezafluoride puffer type technology has
allowed the design of breaking chambers characterized by optimised injection of gas
SF6.
b No overvoltages
The intrinsic properties of the SF6 gas associated with the own characteristics of the
puffer type breaking technique do not originate re-strikes and harmful overvoltages.
b Steady monitoring of the dielectric
SF6 gas pressure monitoring device on each pole (pressure switch with contacts)
allow the steady remote control of the insulating medium.
b Insensitiveness to the environment
The GI-E pole-unit provides a completely sealed system. It consists of an
hermetically sealed gas tight enclosure filled with SF6 gas. Therefore the live parts
of the circuit breaker are completely unaffected by any external environmental
condition.
b Easy installation
The modular design of simple and modern conception allows to perform on site and
within few hours the installation, the general verification foreseen after the assembly
and the commissioning test.
b Long electrical life
The limited energy originated by the electrical arc, (its own characteristic of the puffer
type technique of interruption) combined with the negligible deterioration of the
chemical properties of the SF6 gas allows to limit the wear of the main contacts,
getting the circuit breaker suitable for a service life over 20 years.
b Long mechanical life
The spring motorcharged operating mechanism serie GMh, utilized in the circuit
breakers GI-E range, is characterized by a very high mechanical strenght and is
suitable to assure more than 10.000 operations.
b Low maintenance
Under normal conditions of service the GI-E range circuit breakers are able to switch
off all the charge and short circuit currents. During their expected electrical life the
live parts of the breaking chambers do not require any maintenance even in the case
of frequent operations. Simple greasing of some mechanical components of the
operating mechanism only, is recommended to be periodically performed every 3000
operations.

AMTED300042EN.indd

GI-E Range

General presentation

Tests

b The SF6 gas circuit breakers GI-E range have been fully type tested in accordance
with IEC Standards.
b The type tests have been carried out at laboratories which enjoy high international
reputation as follows:
v CESI (ITALY)
v KEMA (HOLLAND)
v SVEPPI (ITALY)
v LUIGI MAGRINI TEST LABORATORY (ITALY)
Type test evidence and reports are available on customer request.
b All the SF6 gas circuit breakers GI-E range are tested in our workshop before
delivering in accordance with the Routine test list and procedure, as stated in the IEC
Standards. The routine tests carried out on GI-E range circuit breakers are as
follows:
v Power frequency withstand voltage test on the main circuit.
v Dielectric test on auxiliary and control circuit.
v Measurement of the resistance of the main circuit.
v Mechanical operations test, which includes:
a) measurement of resistance of the operation coils and of the heating resistors;
b) measurement of closing and opening times. Check of simultaneous operation of
the three phases;
c) recording of closing and opening speed;
d) check of antipumping device operation;
e) check of all the electrical and mechanical locks and of the signalling devices;
f) check of the auxiliary contacts.
v SF6 gas tightness test.
v SF6 gas humidity test.
v Conformity checks.
The routine test reports are filled in and issued by our quality control department and
they can be available on customer request.

AMTED300042EN.indd

Safety

b The design of the SF6 gas circuit breakers GI-E range has been made in order to
guarantee and to ensure the maximum safety to the installation and operational
personnel.
b SF6 gas monitoring device
The pre-arrangement in every pole of a SF6 gas pressure monitoring system, by
means of pressure switches is able to give remote electrical alarm signals.
b The SF6 gas
The utilization of SF6 gas (very stable and fireproof) as a medium of interruption
makes impossible any fire hazard.
b The electrical clearance
Appropriate clearance distances between phases and between the line terminals to
ground have been provided allowing to assure insulation levels higher than what
foreseen in the Standard IEC.
b Degree of protection
The spring motorcharged operating mechanism is housed in a box having degree
of protection IP 55, with door closed and degree of protection IP 20, with door open.
The design of the operating mechanism box has been performed in order to safely
allow the accessibility to the devices of operation and to the auxiliary switches.
b Interlocks
The pre-arrangement of a simple and reliable selector switch provided with
mechanical lock prevents any dangerous operations from the remote control room
when the personnel are performing on the circuit breakers local operations.
b Instructions
Complete and exhaustive instruction manual book relevant to the storage,
unpacking, installation, commissioning and ordinary maintenance of the circuit
breaker, is available inside every operating mechanism box.

AMTED300042EN.indd

GI-E Range

General presentation

Reliability/Service continuity

v The design of the SF6 gas circuit breaker GI-E range has been developped in
order to assure high reliability during the whole expected service life.
v The reliability of the equipment is not only derived from the experience of the
service, as it is planned at the time of design of all components by means of severe
mechanical endurance tests and by the application of severe quality control
procedures.
v The circuit breakers GI-E range assure long continuity of service because of the
following features:
v long proven experience with the technique of interruption of the electric arc by the
system of self-compression and selfregulation of the SF6 gas pressure,
v high guarantee of gas tight enclosures assured by the reliability of the design of
v the sealing system and by severe tests performed in our work-shop before
delivering to sites, simple maintenance usually confined to quick periodical checks,
v easy and fast replacement of the main components, steady remote control of the
condition of the insulating medium,
v suitability for installation in any environment with temperatures ranging from -25C
up to +40C. For higher performances, please consult our technical department.

Quality assurance

v High technology product like the GI-E range calls for the application of a quality
assurance program which goes beyond the usual acceptance test.
v The design of the SF6 gas circuit breaker GI-E range has been strictly made in
accordance with the high quality level ISO 9001 which concernes all the process of
design, manufacturing up to the after sale service management.
v Quality assurance organisation in force since 1975 and control procedures applied
to all the activities, from work shop to office work, guarantees the high degree of
quality conformity.
v The certificate of compliance with the standard EN 29001 (ISO 9001) achieved by
the quality assurance system in force in our company is the evidence of our steady
commitment towards the quality. Schneider Electric has been qualified by CSQ, the
official independent certification body in the electric field in Italy.

Standards

b The SF6 gas circuit breakers GI-E range for outdoor installation comply with the
following standards:
- International standards IEC 60056 (1987) and IEC 62271-100 (2001) High
voltage alternating current circuit breakers.

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Environment

GI-E Range

Preserving the environment

PE60245

PE60244

AMTED300042EN.indd

The Schneider recycling procedure

PE60243

The Schneider recycling procedure for SF6 based

products is subject to rigorous management, and
allows each device to be traced through to its final
destruction.

b Within the framework of the groups environmental policy, Schneider services

b has made an operational procedure available, enabling medium voltage
switchgear to be processed while eliminating any release of SF6 into the
atmosphere.
b To help you to protect the environment, and to take care of your storage or
dismantling concerns, Schneider services offers to recover any of your equipment
that is reaching the end of its service life.
b The GI-E has been designed with environmental protection in mind:
b the insulating and conducting materials that are used are identified, easy to
separate, and recyclable,
b SF6 can be recovered at the end of its life, and reused after treatment.

Rating

GI-E Range

All ratings listed below are in compliance with IEC Standards

Rated voltage (50 and 60Hz)
Rated insulation level withstand voltage at
power frequency
impulse (1,2/50ms)

kV

24-36-40,5

24-36-40,5

kV
kV

80 (3)
200 (2)

80 (3)
200 (2)

Type A
Rated normal current (1)

630A
1250A
1600A
2000A
3150A
kA
kA
kA
A
A
ms
ms
ms
ms

Rated short time withstand current for 3 s.

Rated short-circuit breaking current
Rated short-circuit making current
Capacitor bank breaking current
Rated cable-charging breaking current
Operating times (*)
Opening *
Arcing (max)
Break (*) (max)
Closing (*)
Rated operating sequence
O-0,3s-CO-3min-CO
O-0,3s-CO-15s-CO
Rated SF6 gas pressure
kPa gauge
Rated line-charging breaking current
A
Rated small inductive breaking current (**)
A
Magnetizing breaking current (**)
A

Type B

16
16
40

20
20
50
630
31,5 - 50 (***)
33/50
15
48/65
60/83

25
25
63

b
b

400
10
500-1600 (shunt reactor switching)
3-6-12 (no load transformer switching)

b
b

16
16
40

20
20
50

25
25
63

31,5
31,5
80

1250
31,5 - 50 (***)
30/43
15
45/58
57/80
b
b

400
10
500-1600 (shunt reactor switching)
3-6-12 (no load transformer switching)

* with operating circuits energized at the rated voltage and

circuit breaker at rated gas pressure
** at present these figures have not been defined by IEC
standars -see IEC 61233.
*** for rated voltage 36kV and 40,5kV, rated cable charging
breaking current is 50A
(1): The current carrying capacities are referred to an ambient
temperature of 40C as called for by IEC standards, as follows
- maximum value +40C
- 24 hours average: maximum value +35C
(2): The insulation capacity values are in accordance with IEC
standard requirements. For higher rated insulation level
withstand voltages, consult our technical department.
(3): Power frequency voltage withstand dry test: 100kV x 1.

AMTED300042EN.indd

Principle of interruption and

pole sectional view

GI-E Range

E28670

E28673

Principle of interruption (the puffer type technology)

fig.2

Precompression:
At the beginning of the opening motion, the piston causes a slight compression of the
SF6, filling the compression cylinder before the arcing contacts are open.

E28672

E28671

fig.1

DE60330

fig.3

The principle of interruption of the circuit breaker GI-E range is based on the puffer
type technology.
Gas compression is self-generated in the puffer cylinder by contact motion during the
opening operation. The SF6 gas pressure necessary to extinguish the arc is selfregulated as the arc core restricts the gas blow and causes the increase of the gas
pressure up to the arc extinguishing value. The pressure of SF6 gas blown towards
the arc is proportional to the value of the current to be interrupted.
b The main contacts and the arcing contacts are initially closed and the opening
spring is charged (fig. 1).
b Thanks to the energy released by the spring, the moving contact is dragged to the
open position.During the opening operation the following phases take place
subsequently:

fig.4

Arc quenching and cooling:

v Separation of the main contacts and transfer of all current on the arcing contacts
circuit (fig. 2).
v Separation of the arcing contacts and priming, between the arcing contacts, of the
electrical arc (fig. 3).
v Cooling of the arc thanks to the pressurised blow of SF6 gas which is generated
v in the compression chamber. The blow of SF6 gas is driven towards the arc
through appropriate insulated nozzle.
v Arc quenching at the crossing of the zero current.
v Completion of the opening stroke of the moving contact, increasing the gap
between the contacts and sweeping away any arc product (fig. 4).
b The SF6 gas decomposed by the electric arc recombines itself restoring stable
molecules.
The SF6 gas by product is easily absorbed by the molecular sieves which are
contained in an adequate quantity in the breaker pole.

Pole sectional view

b The components of a pole of a circuit breaker GI-E range, namely the main and
arcing contacts and the blow nozzle, are the same as adopted for the indoor circuit
breakers.
b They are highly reliable and time proven since these breakers have been working
successfully for many years.
b The switching of the rated normal current and of the rated short-circuit current
takes place inside the puffer type breaking chambers.
b In accordance with standard IEC 694 (96) 6.8.3, the poles of the circuit breaker
GI-E range provide a sealed pressure system, for which no further gas processing is
required during its expected operating life.
b The poles are filled with SF6 gas at the pressure of 400 kPa gauge referred to
20C.
b Steady control of the SF6 gas pressure inside the pole is achieved by means of
pressure switch with two monitoring contacts.
b Thanks to the excellent SF6 gas chemical characteristics and to the excellent
quality of the components utilised, the poles do not lose their own insulating
properties during their service life, even after many switching operations.
b The breaker poles contain molecular sieves which maintain the purity of the SF6
gas without any renewal, even after a large number of interruptions.
LEGEND:
1 Cover
2 Molecular sieves
3 Upper terminal
4 Upper insulator
5 Fixed main contact
6 Fixed arcing contact
7 Blast nozzle
8 Moving main contact
9 Moving arcing contact
10 Compression chamber
11 Lower terminal
12 Lower insulator
13 Insulating rod
14 SF6 gas
15 SF6 gas filling valve
16 Operating shaft
17 Crank gear box
18 Pressure switch

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GI-E Range

Operating mechanism

PE41156

b The SF6 gas circuit breaker GI-E range is equipped with a well proven stored
energy type operating mechanism, series GMh, suitable for three-pole reclosing.
This type of operating mechanism has been used for many years in the indoor circuit
breakers too and it is proven by a long service experience. The spring motorcharged
operating mechanism has been designed in order to assure a long mechanical life.
b The operating mechanism is stored energy type.
v The closing springs are charged by a motoreducer that can be operated either by
d.c.or by a.c.operating voltages;
v after every closing operation the motoreducer automatically recharges the closing
spring.(Charging time is less than 15 seconds) The opening springs get charged with
the energy stored by the closing spring during the circuit breaker closing operation;
v in case of emergency the springs can be manually charged by means of hand
charging lever. This device is removable type, located on the front of the operating
mechanism;
v the stored energy is capable to carry out the O-C-O cycle without recharging.
b Opening and closing operations have a speed independent from the operator one.
b The opening and closing operations of the circuit breaker can be performed either
electrically by means of electrical push buttons, operating opening and closing coils,
or manually, by means of mechanical push buttons.
v The mechanical and electrical push buttons are provided on the front of the
operating mechanism.
b The electrical closing and opening operations can be performed either locally or
remotely.
v The operating mechanism is equipped with a 3 positions selector switch, (local/
zero/remote positions with withdrawble key in zero and remote positions and with N1
aux.contact available in order to remotely signalize the local and zero positions).
The spring motorcharged operating mechanism complete of all its operating and
control devices is housed in an hot dip galvanised box.

10

AMTED300042EN.indd

PE60235

b All the exposed ferrous parts of the operating mechanism box (and of the
supporting structure too) are hot dip galvanised (600 g/m2) in accordance with
Standard UNI 5744 which substantially corresponds to Standard BS 729, ASTM 123153 and DIN 50976.
v The operating mechanism box has been designed in order to prevent the entry of
water and the deterioration of the mechanism due to the condensation that could be
originated by the humidity.
v In accordance with standard IEC 529, the operating mechanism box has a degree
of protection IP 55;
v the operating mechanism box is complete with two heaters, one of which is
permanently on, while the other one is controlled by a thermostat.
b The accessibility to the operating and control devices of the spring motorcharged
operating mechanism and the watertightness of the operating mechanism box is
provided by means of a door, hinged on the left side and by a proper gasket.
b A facility for the locking of the door by padlock device mounted on the door, is
provided.
b The mechanical position indicators as well as the operation counter, which are
mounted inside the operating mechanism box, are visible from the outside through
inspection windows located on the front door of the box.
b The indication of the circuit breaker position (open-closed) is achieved by means
of a mechanical position indicator. The indication is stressed as follows:
v open position: with a black letter O engraved on a green background
v closed position: with a white letter I engraved on a red background.
b A gland plate for the cable entry is provided in the bottom of the operating
mechanism box.
v The gland plate must be purposely drilled on site.
v The available surface is 200x400 mm.
v The cable glands are usually provided by the contractors.
b All the electrical auxiliary equipments requiring connection to external control and
operating apparatus are wired to the terminal board in accordance with the wiring
diagram stated in the catalogue.
v The wiring consists of homopolar PVC insulated, copper flexible black cable, type
N07V-K, having degree of insulation up to 750V and section of 1,5 mm2.
v The cables are anti-flame propagation type in accordance with IEC 60332-3
standard.
v In order to connect the outside aux.cables, the terminal board is provided with
terminal blocks suitable for screw tightening and for cables up to 4 mm2.
v The terminal blocks are grey-coloured having 6 mm width; they are 6.6/6
polyamide insulated, with anti-fire additive, V0 class in accordance with UL 94.
Additional short circuiting terminal blocks for connection of the secondary of the
current transformers can be provided, on specific request.

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11

GI-E Range

Sepam

Metering and protection unit

PE41157

Optional Sepam Series 20 unit can be installed inside the operating mechanism box,
visible from the outside through inspection windows located on the front door of the
box.

Metering functions:

Currents
b RMS measurement of the circuits 3 phase currents.
b Residual current measurement.
Average currents and peak demand currents
Measurement of the average current on each of the 3 phases.
Measurement of the greatest average current on each of the 3 phases.
The peak demand currents give the current consumed at the time of peak loads.
The average current is calculated over a period that may be parameterized from 5 to
60 mn. The clear key is used to reset the peak demand currents to zero when they
are on the display.
Tripping currents
Storage of the greatest average value of the 3 phase currents and earth current at
the time Sepam gave the last tripping order, to provide the fault breaking current
(fault analysis).
These values are stored until the next trip order is given.

Diagnosis measurements:

Cumulative breaking current

The displayed value may be used to evaluate the state of the circuit breaker poles.
Operating time, charging time
Measures the device operating time. These data may be used to evaluate the state
of the pole and operating mechanism.
Number of operations
Cumulative number of breaker opening operations.
Running hours counter / operating time
Cumulative time during which the protected equipment is on load (I > 0.1 Ib).
The cumulative value is displayed in hours (0 to 65535 h) and saved every 4 hours.
Phase overcurrent (ANSI 50/51)
Three-phase protection against overloads and phase-to-phase short-circuits.
The protection comprises four units:
b IDMT or definite time,
b instantaneous or time-delayed.
Sepam Series 20 offers a number of tripping curves:
b definite time (DT),
b IDMT.
The IDMT curves also include a reset time which is used for:
b detection of restriking faults,
b coordination with electromechanical relays.
Earth fault (ANSI 50/51N or 50/51G)
Connection and equipment earth fault protection.
Earth faults may be detected by three phase currents (3I sum).
The protection comprises four units:
b IDMT or definite time,
b instantaneous or time-delayed.
The characteristic curves are the same as those for the phase current overcurrent
protection.
Each set point has a reset time setting (by an adjustable timer hold with definite time
characteristic) that allows restriking faults to be detected.
Each set point has a 2nd harmonic restraint in order to ensure stability during
transformer energizing.
Negative sequence / unbalance (ANSI 46)
Protection against phase unbalance.
Sensitive protection against 2-phase faults on long feeders.
Protection of equipment against temperature build-up caused by an unbalanced
supply or wrong phase rotation or the loss of a phase and protection against low
levels of phase-to-phase overcurrent.
IDMT or definite time characteristics.
Recloser (ANSI 79)
Automation device used to reclose the circuit breaker after tripping triggered by a
transient fault on a line (the function includes 4 parameterizable reclosing cycles).

12

AMTED300042EN.indd

GI-E Range

Sepam

Selection table

functions

protections

phase overcurrent (1)

earth fault (or neutral) (1)
unbalance / negative sequence
thermal oveload
rate of change of frequency
recloser (4cycles)
thermostat / Buchholz
temperature monitoring (2)
metering
phase current I1, I2, I3 RMS
residual current Io
average current I1, I2, I3
peak demand phase current IM1, IM2, IM3
temperature measurement (2)
network diagnosis
tripping current I1, I2, I3, Io
unbalance ratio / negative sequence current li
running hours counter / operating time
thermal capacity used
remaining operating time before overload tripping
waiting time after overload tripping)
disturbance recording
switchgear diagnosis
cumulative breaking current (2)
trip circuit supervision
number of operations
operating times
self-diagnosis
watchdog
output realy test (3)
control and monitoring
circuit breaker / contractor control (4)
logic discrimination
4 addressable logic outputs
additional modules
MET 148 module - 8 temperature sensor inputs
MSA 141 module - 1 low level analog output
MES 108 module - (4I/4S) or MES 114 module - (10I/4O)
ACE 949-2 module - (2-wire) or ACE 959 (4-wire) RS485 interface

Sepam Series 20
ANSI code
50/51
50N/51N
46
49 RMS
81R
79

S20
4
4
1

type of Sepam
T20
4
4
1
2

v
v
v

38/49T
b
b
b
b

b
b

b
b
b
b
v

b
b
b
b
b
b
b

b
v
v
v

b
v
v
v

b
v

b
v

v
v
b

v
v
b

v
v
v

v
v
v
v

Detailed brochure of Sepam unit is available on request.

standard
according to parameter setting and MES 108 or MES 114
input/output module options.
(1) 4 relays with the exclusive possibility of logic discrimination
or switching from one 2-relay group of settings to another 2relay group.
(2) with MET 148 sensor option, 2 set points per sensor.
(3) with advanced UMI option only.
(4) for shunt trip unit or undervoltage release coil according to
parameter setting.

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13

GI-E Range

Current and voltage

transformers
General presentation

DE60331

Main charcteristics of optional instrument

transformers
The range of Merlin Gerin Instrument transformers has been designed for 7,2kV to
36kV voltage and rated currents from 5 to 2500A. In order to comply with higher short
circuit levels in the systems, the current transformers have been designed to
withstand 60kA x 1 second short circuit currents.
All our devices are up to the new and stricter provisions of the IEC regulations (partial
discharge testing is performed after the induced voltage withstand test).
Current transformers can be in accordance with:
b the accuracy classes TPS-TPX-TPY-TPZ defined by IEC 60044-6 standard and
referring to transformer behaviour during short circuit transient phases.
Compliance with standards
All Merlin Gerin Instrument Transformers are in compliance with IEC 60044-1 and
IEC 60044-2 standards.
Transformers compliant with other countries regulations can also be supplied (AS
1675- AS 1243, IEEE C57.13, BS7626 - BS7625, NFC 45502 - NFC 42501, VDE
0414 ...).
Specifications
The working parts (windings and magnetic cores) are entirely enclosed in an epoxy
resin bloc casting, whose twofold function is to:
b guarantee electric insulation inside the device,
b ensure the highest strength.
The external surface of device is covered with silicon RAL 7035 color, whose function
is to:
b guarantee electric insulation outside the device,
b ensure the highest strength

Optional configuration with CT.

14

Product quality over time is guarantee not only by thirty years experience in the field
of resin insulated instrument transformer manufacturing but also by:
b the use of silica-loaded epoxy resin resulting in
v high dielectric strength including at high temperatures (18kV/mm at 180C for
20.000 hours),
v insulation class B according to IEC 44-1 provisions.
b extremely good ageing behaviour both to heat mass ageing according to IEC216
(over 20 years at 120C) and to surface ageing obtained in salty mist.
b In case of fire, no toxic substances are released in accordance with standards CEI
20-37, CEI 20-22 and ASTM D3286.
b Extremely effective behaviour in tropical climates.
b High strength even at the highest working temperatures (Martens point exceeding
105C).
b Accurate production process resulting in:
v no blisters or blowholes in the resin thanks to vacuum casting;
v low constant partial discharge figure also thanks to the high quality of the other
insulating materials used (SF6 injection in voltage transformer windings);
v high strength and very good electric conductivity in primary and secondary
terminals even at the temperatures reached during a short circuit, thanks to
mechanical seaming;
process parameters remaining unchanged over time thanks to computer control
used to manage and monitor the whole production line.

AMTED300042EN.indd

PE60237

Current Transformers type OAM3/N1 - OAM7

Characteristics:

Standard reference: IEC 60044-1

Rated highest voltage: 7,2 - 12 - 17,5 - 24 - 36KV
Rated continous thermal current: 1,2 x In
Frequency: 50 or 60 Hz
Rated secondary current standard: 5 or 1A
For primary current <800A: Double primary ratio through primary coupling.
For primary current >800A: Double primary ratio through secondary reconnection.

PE60238

current transformer type OAM3

current transformer type OAM7

PE60239

Voltage Transformers type OVF2n - OVF3n

Description

Voltage transformer for phase-ground connection

Characteristics:

Standard reference: IEC 60044-2

Standard primary voltage Up: 30 - 33 - 35 kV
Rated insulation level: 36 kV
Rated secondary voltage Us: 100: 3 100 : 3 110: 3 110 : 3 V
Frequency: 50 or 60 Hz
Rated voltage factor: 1,9 for 8 hours
Thermal burden: 450 VA

Nota : Detailed burden/class characteristics as per detailed brochure available on request.

voltage transformer type OVF2

AMTED300042EN.indd

15

Wiring diagram

DE60332

GI-E Range

DE6033

Optional

16

AMTED300042EN.indd

CIRCUITS

(1) closing
(2) opening and SF6 gas monitoring
(3) closing springs charging motor
(4) a.c. auxiliaries: heaters, current socket, lightning
(5) undervoltage opening release
(6) available aux. contacts
(7) ammetrical connection for Sepam
(8) auxiliary connection for Sepam
(9) Sepams aux. contacts
(10) Sepams available aux. contacts

LEGEND:

EC anticondensation resistor
EL lightning lamp
ET heating resistor
F1 Sepam
KN antipumping relay
KP pressure switches aux. relay (locking)
M spring charging gear motor
QC MCCB for the protection of the closing circuit
QE MCCB for the protection of the heating and anticondensation resistors
QL lightning lamp switch
QM MCCB for the protection of the spring charging motor circuit
QO MCCB for the protection of the opening circuit
RUM varistor (resistor voltage dependent)
RYU resistor for the YU circuit
SC closing push botton
SM1-2 end limit switches of the springs charging gear motor
SO opening push botton
SOO consent contact to close the circuit breaker
SPA1-2-3 pressure switches alarm contacts
SPB1-2-3pressure switches locking contacts
SQ1-2 circuit breaker aux. contacts
SS selector switch D-0-L (remote - zero - local)
ST thermostat
XC terminal block to sectionalize the closing circuit
XE terminal block to sectionalize the anticondensation and heating resistors circuits
XE1 bivalent socket
XE2 bivalent socket
XM terminal block to sectionalize the spring charging gear motor circuit
XO terminal block to sectionalize the opening circuit
XU terminal block to sectionalize the under voltage release circuit
YC closing release
YU under voltage release
Y01 opening release
Y02 additional opening release GI-E Range

The diagram refers to open circuit breaker, deenergized

circuits, released closing springs, SF6 gas at rated pressure
and alive undervoltage release.
The circuits surrounded by the sketched line are
available on specific request

AMTED300042EN.indd

17

GI-E Range

Accessories and ratings of

auxiliaries
Standard accessories

b Closing springs gear motor (M) complete with end limit switches (SM1-SM2)
b Electric contacts indicating that closing springs are charged (SM1)
b Closing release (YC)
b Opening release (Y01)
b Antipumping relay (KN)
b Pressure switch with 2 contacts (SPA-SPB) (one pressure switch for each pole)
b Aux.pressure switches relay (KP)
b Local/zero/remote selector switch (SS)
b Terminal block to sectionalize the closing spring gear motor circuit (XM)
b Terminal block to sectionalize the anticondensation and heating resistors circuit
(XE)
b Terminal block to sectionalize the opening circuit (XO)
b Terminal block to sectionalize the closing circuit (XC)
b Mechanical position indicator of circuit breaker position (open-closed)
b Mechanical indicator of springs condition (charged-released)
b Mechanical operated operation counter
b 11NA+9NC free aux.contacts
b Mechanical close-opening push buttons
b Electrical close-opening push botton (SO-SC)
b Anticondensation resistor (EC)
b Heating resistor and thermostat (ET+ST)
b Operating mechanism box with degree of protection IP 55
b Operating mechanism box hot dip galvanised (600g/m2 average coating value)
b Hot dip galvanized supporting structure
b Poles lifting facilities
b Grounding facilities (holes)
b Fixing anchor bolts
b Spring charging lever
b Packing: wooden structure covered with plywood panels
b Nota: the porcelain insulators of the poles are brown coloured, RAL 8016.

Optional accessories

b Additional opening release (Y02)

b Under voltage release (YU)
b MCCB complete of aux.contact for protection of the circuit of the spring charging
gear motor (QM)
b MCCB complete of aux.contact for protection of the circuit of the anticondensation
and heating resistors (QE)
b MCCB complete of aux.contact for protection of the opening circuit (QO)
b MCCB complete of aux.contact for protection of the closing circuit (QC)
b Mechanical interlock Ronis type;with key removed, the circuit breaker is
mechanically locked in open position
b Key padlock device mounted on the door of the operating mechanism box
b Portable lightning lamp (EL)
b 2 poles + earth bivalent outlet socket 10-16A/250V a.c.(XE1+XE2)
b Hot dip galvanized supporting structure suitable to fit outdoor current transformers
b Earthing clamp
b Cables clamp
b Flexible connection between C.B. and C.Ts.
b SF6 gas filling device
b SF6 gas (bottles by 5 kg or 20 kg each)
b RAL 7035 grey colour porcelain insulators
b Digital control and protection unit Sepam (see pages 10-11)
b Current transformer (see pages 12-13)
Additional short circuiting terminal blocks for the connection of the secondaries
of the C.Ts

18

AMTED300042EN.indd

GI-E Range

Ratings of the auxiliaries

b Standard rated supply voltages

d.c.: 24-48-110-125-220 (V )
a.c.: 110-127-220 (V)-(50/60 Hz)
b Voltage variation range
The electric auxiliary equipment can operate satisfactorily within the range of the
following voltage variation table:
v spring charging gear motor
85% - 110% of Vn - (a.c.)
85% - 110% of Vn - (d.c.)
v shunt opening release
70% - 110% of Vn - (d.c.)
85% - 110% of Vn - (a.c.)
v shunt closing release
85% - 110% of Vn - (d.c.)
85% - 110% of Vn - (a.c.)
v under-voltage release
It operates to open the switching device when the voltage at the terminals of the
release falls below 35% of its rated voltage.
The closing of the switching device can be achieved when the voltage at the
terminals of the release is equal to, or higher than 85% of its rated voltage.
b Maximum power consumption
b spring charging gear motor
500 VA - a.c.
400 W - d.c.
v shunt opening release
200 VA - a.c.
150 W - d.c.
v shunt closing release
150 VA - a.c.
100 W - d.c.
v heating resistor
150 W
v anticondensation resistor
60 W
v under-voltage release
75 VA - a.c.
15 W - d.c.
b Ratings of auxiliary contacts
Rated normal current: 10A
Rated voltage: 250V a.c.
Breaking current capacity:
v 0,5A at 220V d.c.-L/R< 40ms
v 3A at 220V d.c.-L/R< 10ms
10A at 220V a.c.- power factor >0,3

AMTED300042EN.indd

19

Overall dimensions

GI-E Range

DE60334

outdoor circuit breaker GI-E type A

Rated current

24 GI-E 16

24 GI-E 20

24 GI-E 25

630A
1250A
1600A
2000A
3150A

Dim.type A
Dim.type A
Dim.type A

Dim.type A
Dim.type A
Dim.type A

Dim.type A
Dim.type A
Dim.type A
Dim.type B
Dim.type B

20

24 GI-E 31

36 GI-E 16

36 GI-E 20

Dim.type A
Dim.type A
Dim.type A

Dim.type A
Dim.type A
Dim.type A

Dim.type B
Dim.type B

AMTED300042EN.indd

Overall dimensions

GI-E Range

DE60335

outdoor circuit breaker GI-E type B

Rated current

36 GI-E 25

630A
1250A
1600A
2000A
3150A

Dim.type A
Dim.type A
Dim.type A
Dim.type B
Dim.type B

AMTED300042EN.indd

36 GI-E 31

Dim.type B
Dim.type B

40 GI-E 16

40 GI-E 20

40 GI-E 25

40 GI-E 31

Dim.type A
Dim.type A
Dim.type A

Dim.type A
Dim.type A
Dim.type A

Dim.type A
Dim.type A
Dim.type A
Dim.type B
Dim.type B

Dim.type B
Dim.type B

21

GI-E Range

Packing

PE60240

b The packing has been designed in order to guarantee the correct protection of the
equipment during transportation and during the short time of storage before
assembly and commissioning in the substation take place.
v In addition, on specific customer request, the operating mechanism box can be
protected by means of a thermic-weld barrier bag, complete of sufficient quantity of
dehydrated salt suitable to keep the internal humidity below 35% referred to 20C, for
a maximum period of 12 months.

b Every circuit breaker is shipped in a standard case having the following

dimensions:
v length: 2800 mm
v depth: 1100 mm
v height: 1750 mm

PE60241

b Every crate includes the three sets of poles, the operating mechanism box
and the loose elements of the supporting structure.
The gross weight of the case including the equipment is as follows:
v roughly 900 kg for circuit breaker with dimensions type A
v roughly 950 kg for circuit breaker with dimensions type B
v If are requested, the SF6 gas bottles for the first filling and the refilling devices are
delivered in separate cases.

b The cases are suitable for indoor storage.

v On specific customer request different kind of packing can be provided.
If CTs are requested they are delivered in separate cases.

22

AMTED300042EN.indd

GI-E Range

Installation and commissioning

PE60242

b Detailed instruction manual book (including all the information concerning the
installation procedure to be followed on site) is available inside the operating
mechanism box.
v A careful reading of it, before starting any operation, is recommended.
b The installation of the supporting structure on the suitable concrete is very easy
and fast; the supporting structure is fixed to the floor by means of anchor bolts.
b The installation operation goes on with the lifting of the preassembled three poles
set and of the operating mechanism on the supporting structure and then with the
connection of the operating linkage between the poles and the operating mechanism.
b A very simple mechanical setting of the operating linkage shall have to be
performed on site in accordance with the exhaustive instruction stated in the manual
book.
b In order to simplify on site the lifting operation of the three poles set, the
availability of a lifting device is recommended.
The assembly operations do not require futher special tools, in addition to the
standard spanners.

Points to note
During the installation procedure, warning shall have to be taken in order to
assembly the operating mechanism and the three pole set having the same
serial number.
b In case of transportation by sea/truck, the GI-E circuit breakers poles are shipped
at rated SF6 pressure; therefore it is not necessary to carry out any gas filling at site.
It means that the SF6 bottles are not needed, as the GI-E poles will be supplied at
the rated SF6 pressure.
b In case of air-transportation, in accordance with the safety transport regulation in
force, the GI-E circuit breakers poles have to be shipped at a reduced pressure (50
kPa relative pressure). It means that, when the installation of the equipment has
been completed, the poles have to be re-filled with SF6 gas up to the rated pressure.
As the SF6 gas bottles for the first filling, as well as the refilling device are supplied if
requested.
b After the circuit breaker has been installed and all the connections to the
auxiliaries and to the line have been completed, the end user may personally
conduct the commissioning test, in order to check that no damages have occurred
during transportation and storage.
b The series of test shall be carried out in accordance with manufacturers
instructions, as for what concerns the kind of test to be performed, as well as for what
concerns the limits of the acceptable values. In this regard the IEC 62271-100 (2001)
recommendations will govern too.

AMTED300042EN.indd

23

GI-E Range

Order form
Outdoor GI-E

Calculation zone

Only one of the boxes (ticked X or filled

considered between each horizontal line.
Green box X corresponds to none priced functions.

by the needed value) have to be

Basic circuit breaker

Quantity

Rated voltage Ur

(kV)

Breaking current Isc

(kA)

Rated current Ir
Rated frequency
50 Hz
60 Hz
Rated operating sequence
O-0,3s-CO-3min-CO
Protection of the auxiliary circuits
by terminal block
Electrical motor - M
24 Vdc
110 Vdc
48 Vdc
125 Vdc
60 Vdc
220 Vdc
Closing shunt release - YC
24 Vdc
110 Vdc
48 Vdc
125 Vdc
60 Vdc
220 Vdc
1st opening shunt release - Y01
24 Vdc
110 Vdc
48 Vdc
125 Vdc
60 Vdc
220 Vdc
Heating resistors - ET+EC
110 V (50-60 Hz)
Leaflets language
French

Italian

(A)

O-0,3s-CO-15s-CO
by MCCB
110 Vac (50 Hz)
127 Vac (50 Hz)
220 Vac (50 Hz)

110 Vac (60 Hz)

127 Vac (60 Hz)
220 Vac (60 Hz)

110 Vac (50 Hz)

127 Vac (50 Hz)
220 Vac (50 Hz)

110 Vac (60 Hz)

127 Vac (60 Hz)
220 Vac (60 Hz)

110 Vac (50 Hz)

127 Vac (50 Hz)
220 Vac (50 Hz)

110 Vac (60 Hz)

127 Vac (60 Hz)
220 Vac (60 Hz)

127 V (50-60 Hz)

220 V (50-60 Hz)

240 V (50-60 Hz)

260 V (50-60 Hz)

English

Spanich

110 Vac (50 Hz)

127 Vac (50 Hz)
220 Vac (50 Hz)

110 Vac (60 Hz)

127 Vac (60 Hz)
220 Vac (60 Hz)

110 Vac (50 Hz)

127 Vac (50 Hz)
220 Vac (50 Hz)

110 Vac (60 Hz)

127 Vac (60 Hz)
220 Vac (60 Hz)

Options

2nd opening shunt release - Y02

24 Vdc
110 Vdc
48 Vdc
125 Vdc
60 Vdc
220 Vdc
Undervoltage release - YU
24 Vdc
110 Vdc
48 Vdc
125 Vdc
60 Vdc
220 Vdc

Accessories

First filing device

SF6 gas for first filing (each CB needs 2 kg)
5 kg cylinder
20 kg cylinder
40 kg cylinder

24

quantity
quantity
quantity
quantity

AMTED300042EN.indd

Order form

GI-E Range

Current transformers

Current transformers
Type

Quantity

Cubicle type

Quantity

Standard

IEC

Frequency

ANSI

AS

50Hz

60Hz

Highest voltage for equipment (kV)

7.2

12

Number of secondaries
Rating plate language

17.5

24

36

French

English

Spanish

Primary
Rated short time current
Rated primary current
1st rated (A)

(kA)

2nd rated (A)

(kA)

3rd rated (A)

Secondary
1st primary
protection

2nd primary
measure

protection

Rated secondary current

(A)

measure

3nd primary
protection

measure

(A)

(A)

(VA)

(VA)

Rated output
(VA)
Accuracy class
Security factor (FS) / Accuracy limit factor (ALF)

AMTED300042EN.indd

25

Order form

GI-E Range

Sepam Series 20

Sepam Series 20
Type of sepam

Type

Substation

S20

Quantity

Transformerr

T20

Quantity

Integrated
advanced UMI

Ring lug connector

working language

English / French
English / Spanish
English / Italian
English / Swedish
English / Polish

auxiliary power supply

24Vdc
48 to 250Vdc or 100 to 240Vda

Separate modules and optional accessories

4 input - 4 output module

PC parameter setting and operation software kit (1)

MES 108

Quantity

SFT 2841

Quantity

Use and commissioning manual

French
English
(1) kit including the CCA783 connection cord and SFT2826 software
Tick the appropriate box

26

and fill in these

the needed values

AMTED300042EN.indd