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CHAPTERXII

UNDERFREQUENCY RELAYING AND


LOAD SHEDDING
Er.K. Mounagurusamy
CE / P&C
-

Load shedding is essential in emergencies to keep the system in tact.

Effect of under frequency operation of system

Boiler outputs reduce due to reduction of draft fan speed.

10% reduction in speed of feed pumps reduces output by 30% and hence
reduction of turbine generator output.

Cooling effects of generators get reduced and hence affects the thermal
limits.

Stator voltage is proportional to speed of generator and hence MVAR


output decreases, desinged output is not feasible.

10% reduction in frequency reduces turbine capacity by 0.9%. Low


frequency operation may result in vibration and probable resonance of low
pressure blades leading to blade fatique.

Pull out torque of induction motors is inversely propertional to squre of


frequency.

10% reduction in frequency will increase the operating time of protection


relays by 10%

Instrument errors increase

Accuracy of energy meters adversely affected

Transformer core losses increase

10% reduction of frequency 10% reduction of KVAR output of capacitors.

reactive power consumption increases in ballest lamps

10% of frequency reduction increases 16% of consumption of reactive


power in air conditioners and 63% in T.V.Sets.

POWER SYSTEM PROTECTION DURING DECLINING FREQUENCY:


When there is a sudden loss of generation due to any tripping of large generator,
the system frequency immediately drops. If the tripped unit is compartively small, the
system is not affected.
If the tripped generator or loss of generation power is large, effect is serious. If
there is sufficient reserve spinning governors take up the problem.
If there is not sufficient spinning power, the frequency will go down depending on
how much generation was lost and how much was system demand.

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CHAPTERXII

If the frequency declines much, some other generators provided with under
frequency protection to protect their machine also trip and the effect is cummulative and
the system may go black out.
If some load shedding is done when the frequency declines sufficient to keep the
frequency in limits, the system will survive. This kind of load shedding is automatically
done by the use of under frequency relays.
Soft ware package are available now-a-days to exactly arrive at the settings of
these relays in stages and if properly set and put into effect without manipulations, the
system stability will be well within the safety.
If the automatic load shedding is not effected properly, the stability of the system
will certainly be under question.
Normally the under frequency tripping scheme control wrests with the local
operating people. If trip links are provided in this system, there are possibilities of
keeping the trip link open due to the known reasons but the implications of such an action
will now be understood clearly, it is hoped.
Ref:

Philosophy of under frequency relaying


Article by Er. R. Venkataraman,
Assistant Engineer,
Office of the S.E/T/E.
Published in TNEB Engineers Association bulletin

U/F SYSTEM PROTECTION IN TNEB AS ON APRIL 2001


To get separated from Southern grid during disturbance the following inter-state
feeders are tripped with RPF and Under Frequency relay combination.
1) 400KV Sriperumbudur cuddapah will trip at 100MW (Export to cuddapah)
when frequency is at 48 Hz with time delay of 0.5 sec.
2) 400KV Salem Bangalore will trip at 300MW (Export to Bangalore) When
frequency is at 48Hz with time delay of 1.0 sec.
When these 400KV feeders get tripped the TNEB with Kerala system
gets separated from Andera Pradesh and Karnataka.
II
If frequency is not improving due to Generation Load mismatch, Load
release through Under frequency relays set at 47.8 Hz/Inst is obtained. Selected 110 KV
feeders would trip on Under Frequency relay to effect a load relief of about 650 MW.
III On further decline of frequency persisting sub islanding schemes to get
following block islanding will be effected.

268

CHAPTERXII

a)

ETPS (combined with BBGTPS) Block:

Under this block two conditions viz.. with or without Generation in


BBGTPS are envisaged. The feeder in this block would be tripped at47.6 Hz/ 0.75
sec. When there is no Generation at BBGTPS additional relief of Padi SS &
Sembium SS is added. Operator on duty at ETPS act depending on availability of
Generation at ETPS to match the load in the block.
b)

GMR Vasavi Diesel Generation Plant Block:

This block would get separated at 47.6 Hz/0.75 sec. In this block
islanding also, two conditions ie.. for 180 MW and 100 MW generation level at
M/S GMR plant are envisaged. When Generation drops to 100 MW, additionally
at chindaripet would be tripped.
c)

NCPTS (Combined with TCPL Generation) Block:

At 7.6 Hz/2 sec, the NCTPS (Plus TCPL) will go with base loads
according to Generation in two stages viz.. i) When generation at NCTPS is less
than 450 MW with TCPL Generation. This block will have Korattur,
Koyambedu, Kadaperi., Tharamani, Mosur loads according to the two conditions
of Generation level.
House load operation of two units at 47.5 Hz/3 sec. Is restored. Also one
unit will go on H/L at 52 Hz/1 sec.
d)

Neyveli Thermal Power Station Block:

(Generation 1700 MW load 664 MW). This islanding scheme operates at


47.6 Hz/2 sec with Generation @ TS1 & TS2 and selective 110 KV & 230 KV
feeders of Cuddalore, Perambalur, Deviakurichi, Villupuram 230 KV, Villupuram
110 KV and Eachengadu Substations for base load. All the 400 KV feeders at
TS2 will be connected to under Frequency trip at 47.6 Hz/2 sec. The excessive
Generation in this block will be reduced by running selected units on H/L. The
scheme will be supervised by Neyveli Authorities.
e)

Mettur Thermal Power Station Block:

(Generation 800 MW Load 612 MW) this block too gets islanded at
47.6Hz/ 2 Sec. This block will have Salem, Mettur, Singarapet, Hosur,
Thiruvannamalai and Erode loads as base loads.
House load operation is not possible for these units due to design
problems.

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CHAPTERXII

f)

TTPS Hydro Block :

This block gets islanded at 47.6 Hz/2 Sec. Under three conditions viz., i) 5
machines availability @ TTPS plus Hydro area Generation ii) 4 machines
availability @ TTPS plus Hydro area Generation iii) 3 machines availability @
TTPS plus Hydro area Generation. Depending on load Generation study the
feeders that are tripped at 47.6 Hz/2 Sec. Separately for the above three conditions
are communicated.
Apart from this certain other feeders at 47.6 Hz/3 sec. Are tripped to offset
additional load within the islanded zone.
Under Frequency relay on Aliyar Power House to automatically change
the machines from condenser mode to Generator mode at 47.6 Hz/0.5 sec. Is
installed.
House load operation of machines 4 & 5 in TTPS is set at 47 Hz/5 secs.
iv) Since MAPS will go on H/L at 47.78 Hz at 4 sec. Itself separate
islanding is not provided for these machines.
Kalpakkam units are connected for H/L. In stage I unit auxiliary loads of
24 MVA will be transferred to Generator at 47.78 Hz/1 Sec. At 47.78 Hz/4 sec
the unit will go on H/L.

270

CHAPTER-XIII
POWER-LINE CARRIER
COMMUNICATION
Er. M. Arunachalam
EE / GRT
INTRODUCTION:
The Power Line Carrier Communication terminals are created and commissioned
at various substations. The values for the required characteristic input and output
quantities for the system are to be followed as per 1) IEC Recommendation 495-1974 and
as per Indian Standard IS 9482-1980. The tests on the terminals are to be done as per the
method indicated in Indian Standard IS 10706-1983 of latest versions.
Units and levels & Measurement methods:
The units are in Decifal, and terms used in the system are Attunation, composit
loss and Return loss. The PLCC systems is functioning in the range of 30 KHE-500 with
maximum power lost in line. The receiving equipments has little effect on transmitting
end the losses are expressed db-attenuation
Power Line: Xdb = 10 log P1/P2
Absolute power level Xdbm = 10 log P/1mw
Relative power level Xdbr = 10 log P/P ref.
Voltage level Xdb = 20 log V1/V2
Current level Xdb = 20 long I1/I2
(When the scalar ratios of currents or voltages are the square roots of the corresponding
power ratios.).
1 Mw in 600 ohm
= 0.775V
= 1.291ma.
COMPOSIT LOSS:
The input of stem having impedence Z is fed by a source with internal impedence
Z1, the composit loss in Decibel is given by 10 times log 10 Ratio of power PO meet
the source would give upto an impedence Z1, to the power P it sends through the system
to its terminating impedence Z2.
Composit loss
Insertion loss:

10 log10

P0/P dB.

10 log10 P1/P2 dB.


Where P1 is the power available to the system without the insertion of a network.
P2 is the power at the output with insertion of network.

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CHAPTERXIII

MISMATCH LOSS:
10 log P0/P dB
Number of decimals by which the power in the load in the matched conditions would
exceed the power actually flowing in the load.
RETURN LOSS:
10 log10 Po/Pr dB.
Number of decibels by which the power in the load in the matched condition would
exceed the reflected (Return) power with connection to be actual load.
INTER MODULATION:
In a non-linear Network to which two or more sinusoidal signals are applied
simultaneously, a series of additional sinusoidal signal will arise, there are all Harmonics
and inter modulation produces of the applied signals.
Among the inter modulation produces of two signals = m1 t1 + m2t2, the old
order products, the two 3 order products frequencies (2 f1+f2) and (2f2-f1) are harmful,
being closes to f1+f2.
Measurement of Impedence.
O
P1 dB

V1

1X1
O
V

P1 dB
V1/V2 = R+1x1/R
1x1 = R. 10

;
V1/V2 = 10 P1-P2/20
P1-P2/20 R

Ex:

P2 = -43.5 dB

h = 0dB.
R = 1r
1x1 =

10 43.5/20 = 150r.

Insulation level of Line Trap:


Residential voltage by nominal discharge
0.5mH
31.5
5.4
Front-of-wave Impulse
Sparkover voltage of the arrester

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CHAPTERXIII

Peal : 26 KV
Insulation levels of Tuning device and Line Trap.
Typical factory impulse voltage:

90 KV

Impulse Test voltage of L.T.

75 KV

Front of wave impulse spark over voltage of arrester .. 62 KV


The performance of Line Trap can be assessed in terms of its
RESISTANCE.

EFFECTIVE

Tappling loss of a line trap is a measure of the loss of power sustained by carrier
frequency signal due to the finite blocking ability of the line trap. It is defined in terms of
the ratio of the signal voltages across an impedence equal to the characteristic impedence
of the line with and without shunt connection of the line trap. It is expressed in decibels
(db). Rating of the Tapping Loss::
The value of the tapping loss as determined by the shunt connection of the resistance
component only of the line trap impedence. (Tapping loss based on blocking resistance).
Tapping Loss::
Due to R+jx

10 log (1+0.25+N)/N2+P2 db

Where N = R/Z & P

1 x

1 /2.

Due to R only 20 log ( 1 + 1 /2N) db


Due to 1x1 only 10 log (1+0.25/P2) db
Band width of line trap
That frequency band V f1
Within which the blocking impedance does not fall short of a specified value.
OR
That frequency band V f2 within which the tapping loss does not exceed a specified
value.
Rated band width:
Bandwidth expressed in terms of
Rated blocking impedance or rated tapping loss
V f1N

or

V f2N.

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CHAPTERXIII

V f1N
V f2N

Band width expressed in terms of rated blocking impedence.


Carrier frequency band within which the rated tapping
loss does not exceed a specified value.

BLOCKING REQUIREMENTS:
Permissible variation of the blocking impedence and tapping loss quantities
should be within the band width of the line trap.
A maximum loss of 2.6 db for both tapping loss and rated tapping loss this
corresponds to Line trap blocking resistance 1-41 times the characterisitc impedence of
the transmission line.
TYPICAL CASE:
Line trap blocking resistance: 570 ohms.
Transmission line characterestic impedence of a single conductor phase to earth
impedence 400
TEST ON LINE TRAPS:
Type Tests
1) Measurement of inductance of the main civil.
2) Measurement of Temperature Rise
3) Insulation tests.
4) Short time current tests
Routine tests
Measurement of blocking impedence
Measurement of tapping loss.
Measurement blocking impedence
2b
By means of a bridge method from which Resistance and Resistive and Reactive
components may be read off.
Measurement circuit.
Measurement of Tapping Loss(A7)

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CHAPTERXIII

2L

I
L

V
V0

2L

At = 20 log (V1/V2) dB
Z are resistors equal to characteristic impedance of the line.
V1 = VO/2

V2 = V

Coupling capacitor of coupling Device coupling capacitor and compiling device from a
carrier frequency filter for efficient and connection of CF currents to high voltage line.
High frequency characteristic of coupling capacitor.
Equivalent series resistance 40 r
Stray capacitance of Low
voltage terminal

for CC
200 pf and for CVT 300+0.05 Capacitance

Stray conductance of low


voltage terminal

20 pvs for CC
50 pvs for CVT

High frequency current to with stand atleast 1A (


value of current equival
to a power of 400 w for a terminal resistance 4400 ohm.
ROUTINE TESTS:
1. Capacitance at power frequency
a) in the standard tem. range for testing.
b) at rated power frequency
c) at sufficient low voltage to ensure No internal breakdown.
2. Voltage tests
a) Duration 1 min.
b) Test voltage between high voltage and earth terminals.
c) Low voltage terminal shall be earthed.
3. A.C. test voltage
Value corresponding to insulation level.
4. D.C. test voltage
Value twice the RMS value of the AC test voltage.

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CHAPTERXIII

5. Test between the low voltage and earth terminals.


AC voltage of 10 KV RMs.
Duration 1 Minute
6. Capacitance and tangent of the loss angle after the voltage tests.
a) at Rated voltage
b) at Rated frequency.
Measured capacitance shall not differ from the rated value by
more than

5% + 10%
Tangent of the loss angle.
Limits of permissible variation subject to agreement.
The purpose of measurement is to check uniformity of production.
Typical value less than 0.5 x 10-3
Coupling Device :
Coupling Device is connected together with coupling capacitor The turning of the
coupling capacitor is to component of the coupling capacitor.
Impedence; in order to promote the efficient transmission of carrier frequent
signals.
Turing device:
It matches the impedence between the power line carrier frequency connection.
TRANSFORMER
Galvanic Isolation between primary and secondary terminals of the coupling device to
drain to earth of the power frequency current devived by the coupling capacitor.
DRAIN COIL:
If limits the volt ge surges coming from the power line at the terminals of the
coupling device.
LIGHTING ARRESTORS:
Direct and efficient earthing of the system when necessary of the primary terminals of the
coupling device.
Carrier freq. requirements.

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CHAPTERXIII

composite lost :

not more than 2 dB

Return loss

preferably not less than 12dB

Nominal line 200-400 ohm


side impedence phase to earth coupling
400-700 ohm phase-phase coupling
Nominal equipment
sideimpedence

75 ohm (unbalance)
150 ohm (Balanced)

Destoration and Inter modulation Atleast 80 dB Below peak envelop power

INSULATION REQUIREMENT
Power freq. Level

5 Kvrms 1 min. isolation Transformers

Impulse level

To with stand 1.2/50 impulse voltage 10 KV (peak)


(Peak value equal to twice the value of the impulse sparkover
value of the main Arrestor.

TESTS ON COUPLING DEVICE (ROUTINE/ACCEPTANCE)


1. Composit loss
2. Return loss
3. Power Freq. voltage test
MEASUREMENT OF COMPOSIT LOSS.
Z2

V0

21

CF
Generator.
Loss = 20 Log 10 V0/2v 2 dB.

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CHAPTERXIII

MEASUREMENT RETURN LOSS.

J
CF Generator

22

V0

Z1
Return loss: 20 log (V1/V11) dB
V1 is the voltage measured by the Web meter (V) with switch closed.
V11 is the voltage measured by the voltmeter (V) with switch
The line boide and equipment side return loss shall preperably he not less than 12dB.
In certain cases values less than 12 dB may require to be accepted.
DISTORTION AND INTER MODULATION TEST
Selective c f
receiver

C f Generator

F1

21

F1

Apply to the secondary terminals of the coupling device, two generator, set on two
different frequencies conveniently located within the available bandwidth of the coupling
device, Measure across an impedence equal to the line side impedence connected to the
primary side by means of test capacitor, two signals are obtained, whose power is equal
to one generator of the nominal peak envelop power. Power frequency test of Isolating
transformers.
Power fre. voltage of 5 KVrms for one min.

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CHAPTERXIII

TEST ON DRAIN COIL:


Measurement of Impedence at power frequency.
Impedence at power frequency between the primary terminal and the earth
terminal as low as possible and in no case in excess of 20 ohm.
The frequency bandwidth, within which the composite loss does not exceed and
the return loss does not fall short of the specified values.
For coupling devices ICE REC 495 (1974) mentions for line side and equipment
side Impedence. A return loss greater than 12 dB Referred to the normal values, but
impractice this figure may be difficult to achieve.
For PLC terminals IEC REC 495 (1974) specified a Return loss greater than 10
dB referred to the nominal value of carrier frequency impedance.
C.F. CONNECTING CABLE:
150 ohm balanced
Electrical characteristic
Resistance Max 23.4 ohms
Insulation Resistance Min. 10,000 M. ohm/km
Test voltage 50 H 2 min.
wire-wire

500 VRMS

wire-shiled

4000 V RMS

Mutual capacitor

31 n /km

Earthing at equipment end


Eliminates power freq. current circulation.
May cause high voltage across the wdgs of the coupling transformer which will need to
be designed for this duty. Maintenance personnel will need to take precaution against the
possibility of potential differences during faults, between cable screen and thelocal earth.
B)

Coupling device ad carrier terminal not part of same earthmesh.

Earthing at earth potential differences may be high in the case of a fault and the
circulating currents in the screen may be dangerous.
Earthing at equipment end only the common practices to earth only the one side to the
screen at the carrier equipment end. By use of Balanced cables some of the above
problems can be avoided.

279

CHAPTERXIII

APPLICATION OF PLCC SYSTEM


Analogue signals of frequency variation type.
Speech
Signals
Teleprotection
Telecontrol
Teleprinting
and Telefax.
As per IEC 495, IS 492, CC, TT Dissortion per 1 H droft in FSK Channel N 0.5 at 200
Bd.
Possible utilisation 4KH
Speech 300-2400 H
Pilot 2400-2700 V
Signals

- 2700 H 3660 H

V.F. Band

0.3

Speech

0.3 - 2.4 KH

Dial tF6

2.58 KH

Signals

2.76 37

IF Freq.

16.45 KH

3.7 KH

IF Band 12.7 16.15 KH


As approved by a national Authority the carrier frequency range
40 KH

500 KH

Basic carrier frequency Band


for a single one way channel 2.5 KH, 4 KH
Nominal CF Band.
Band for a particulars one way PLCC channel.
e .g.

2.5, 2, 7.5, 10 kh
4, 8, 12, 16 KH

Nominal Impedence
At CF output

75 r unbalanced
150 r balanced
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CHAPTERXIII

RETURN LOSS
10

dB

R/2

= 1.925

Nominal C.F. Power is the permissible Emission power for which the equipment is
designed comparable with the requirements for superiors emissions available at CF
output acc resistance load equal to nominal load impedance. Mean CF Power averaged
over a time sufficiently long compared with the cycle time of the lowest modulating freq.
During which average power assures its highest value.
Ratio between PEP and manpower depends all factors in multiple signal. Speech
level, with or without compressor. No type and level of signals, may be assumed to be
between 8.5 & 10 ds. under normal service condition speech levels (Relatine)
Four wire
Transmit
Range of 0.60-17 dBr.
Suggestion
-3.5 dBr
-14 dbr
Two

Receinee
3.5 to + 8 dBr.
3.5 dBr.
+ 4 dbr

Recommendation
Transmit 0 dbr
Receive -7 dbr.

Balanced Normal Impedence 600 R


Return loss
Not less 14 db
Group delay distortion:
Suggested limits
300 3400 HZ CCITT M - 10 20
300 2400 HZ
Group delay distortion of a pair of transmitting and Receiving PLC Terminus for data
Transmission where speech channel is used for data transmission.
For 300 3400 HZ
Starts 500 HZ
600 HZ
1000 HZ to 2600 HZ
2800 HZ
For 300 2400 HZ
500 HZ
600 HZ
1000 to 1900 HZ 0.5ms
2100 HZ

3ms
1.5ms

0.5ms
3ms

3ms
1.5ms

3.0ms
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CHAPTERXIII

AUTOMATIC GAIN CONTROL :


For a variation of CF input signal level of 30 db, the U.F receive level
speech/signal
varies of db.
LINEARITY :
As a function of UF input level over all loss of the speech circuts not differ by
more than + 0.3 dbr from overall loss at 0 dbmu.
For any input level between 10 dbm & 0 dbmu
Example 800 HZ
- 3.5
dbm
- 5.5
dbm
- 8.5 dBm
- 11.5 dBm
- 13.5 dBm
Limiter action :-

-3.5
-5.5
-8.5
-11.5
-13.5

dbm
dbm
dbm
dbm
dbm

)(
)( 0.3db
)(
)( +0.3Db
)(

Increase in VF signal level of +15 dBm. Increase in CF output level must be +3


dBm.
Noise generated within the terminal weighted Telephone noise not be exceed 60
dBm op.Noise generated within the terminals has limited significance, as under
operational
conditions , the corona noise is dominant, in the order of 40 dBm op
under operational conditions a more realistic value is 55 dBm op.
CROSS TALK:
Due to signal channels, either individually or collectively the system shall not
give rise to a weighted disturbance power in the speech circuit of more than 60 dBm op.
Signalling input and output , the pulse distortion should exceed 5ms.
VOLTAGE REQUIREMENTS:
Power supply :

DC;

AC

500V DC 1 mohm
(both terminal connected together and earth )
1000V 1.2 /5 pulse for terminal not isolated from earth.
2000V ms power frequency 1 min both terminals connected
together and earth .

CF input and output terminals ; terminals isolated from earth, 2000V ms power frequency
1 min. Both terminals connected together and earth Terminals not isolated from earth
3000N 1.2 /50 pulse

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CHAPTERXIII

V.F Signalling and Alarm


Free from earth. 500V DC 1 min.
VFT channels its frequency and Tolerences :Channel
CCITT Recommendation
Nominal Modulation Rate

Number
R35
50

R37
100

R38 A
200 Bd.

Capacity of Homogenous
VFT channels in a standard
Carrier system with 4 KHZ spacing ;

24

12

Lowest mean frequency

420

480

600 HZ

Higher mean frequency

3180

3120

3000 HZ

Permissible deviation from the


Frequency at sending end

4 HZ

Difference between two characteristic


Frequency in the same channel

60

120

240 HZ

Maximum in PLC system :-

Noise in PLC system :Mainly caused by the power system operation..


Two main type of Noise : Substained white moisse like voltages (Random noise).
Irregular discharges across insulators and conductors. (Carona and brush discharge)
Impulse type noise:Shortsparks and bursts of high amplitude caused by,
1. Operation of Isolators.
2. Operation of breakers.
3. Short circuits.
4. Flash over
5. Atmospheric discharges.
Interference caused in PLC system due to HVDC system.
Other PLC system :
Sources external to power systems
Maritime Aeronautical system
Broad casting service.
System operating in MF and IF bands.
Reuse of me PLC frequencies:

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CHAPTERXIII

Reuse at a geographically spaced distance which ensures a level difference of preferably


60db between the useful signal and disturbing signal.
dB,

dBm,
dB
dB

10 log p1/p2
20 log v1/v2

dBu

Abritute Levels
1mw
= 0 dBm
U
= 0.7751
40 dBm
10W
600 ohm
+40 dBm
10W
150 ohm
+40 dBm
10W
75 ohm

= 0 dBu
77.5V + 40 dBu
38.7V + 34.0
27.4V + 31.0 dBu

Standard Limits for transmission quality of Data transmission. One of the most important
factor affecting the data transmission quality is the distortion in time of the significant
instances (known as telegraph distortion).
The degree of signal distortion must be kept within certain limits, the ultimate
objective being that the degree of distortion on received signals should be complaiable
with the merging of the receiving equipment.
The distortion limits,
600
1200

Bands
Bands

leased circuits leased circuits -

20 25 -

30%
35%

Degree of tolerable distortion (%)


Modulation rate
Channel spacing

50 Bd
120 HZ

100 Bd
240 HZ

200 Bd
480 HZ

Inherent inochronum
distortion with normal
reception level

5%

5%

5%

Incase of slow level variation


of +8.7 dB to 17.4 dB with
respect to normal reception
level

7%

7%

7%

Inpresence of interfrence
by a single wave freq.
equal to either of two
characteristics frequencies
with a end of 20 dB below
the signal level of the
test channel.

12

12

10

With introduction of a
frequency of the
signals.

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CHAPTERXIII

Distortion in a data channel causes Loss / Frequency distortion group delay distortion
Variation with time in over all loss
Random circuit Noise
Phase filter
Single tone interference
Frequency error
Harmonic Distortion
Text distortion due to white Noise
VFT FM 240
100 Bd
Channel level
17.5 dBm
For a Noise level of 24 dB.
For 50 Bd distortion is 12.5%
100 Bd distortion is 20%
Text distortion due to frequency distortion.
48 HZ 13.5%
-8 HZ 13.5%
Distortion in series connected VFT channel for 120 50 Bd.
For 4 Nos. of Series connected VFT channel,
For the normal level distortion will be 7%
If the level is above normal, the distortion varies minimum for 4 Nos 8%
Where as for a reception level below normal about 17.4 dB.
4 Nos. of Series connected
VFT channels, distortion becomes 12%
Distortion in FSK channel due to frequency change of 1 HZ
For 120
50
240
100
480
200
600
600
Limits for maintenance
distortion limits.

300 Bd
600 Bd
1200 Bd
Bit error rate (max)
300 Bd
600 Bd
1200 Bd

Bd
2.08 %
Bd
1.04 %
Bd
0.52 %
Bd
0.31 %
of Telephone type circuits for Data transmission Telegraph

Leased
20 25
20 30
25 35
Leased
5 10-5
5 - 10-5
5 10-5

Switched
20 25 %
25 30 %
30 35 %
Switched
10-4
10-3
10-3

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CHAPTERXIII

PERIOD OF MEASUREMENT IS 15 MIN


Block Error Rate:
Example:

Period of measurement
No. of Bits transmitted
Length of sequence
No. sequences transmitted

=
=
=
=

15 min
1080000
511 Bits.
2113.

Maximum Permissible line loss:


Total loss planning
Value as per IEC 5 dB.
Dielectric loss in capacitance, loss in coupling devices, loss in CF cable, loss in
carrier sets operating in parallel. (0.5 1.0 dB (IEC)).
PEP = 1010 =40 dBm
Coupling
One line

loss at
end

Max. Permissible
line loss

Min.Permissible
line loss

S/N
Ratio
Min.
25

Noise
level
of 2 HZ
- 33dBm

132 KV

5 dB

43 dB

- 8 dBm

220 KV

5 dB

33 dB

- 2 dB

25

- 23dBm

400 KV

5 dB

23 dB

+ 12 dB

25

- 13dB

Power alocation in a multi purpose PLCC system is determined by the following


properties of the sub channels.
Noise band width.
Required signal to Noise Ratio.
Method of modulation.
Assumption.
Sum of voltages of individual sub channels at carrier frequency is equal to the voltages
corresponding to the PEP. of the transmitter. The speech limits rise is 0 dB. For is used
for all signal channels. operating range for all sub channels should be the same.
S/N ratio for speech
25 dB
for signalling channel 15 dB.
Noise power in a sub channel is proportional to its Noise Band Width.
Allocation of power in various sub channels of PLC terminals for speech plus signals
without teleprotection.
Criteria: Power proportional to Noise band width in AM channels, (Speech and
Pilot) power in FM signalling channel 6 dB lower than in equal Band width AM

286

CHAPTERXIII

channels.
Sub channel

Speech
Pilot dial
For 120 (50Bd)
For 240 (100Bd)
For 480 (200Bd)

Noise Band
Width HZ

Power
Ratio

Voltage
Ratio

2100
80
80
160
320

2.5
1

2/4
4/4

10
2
1
1.5
2

Level relative
to speech
0 dBn
- 14 dBn
- 20 dBn
- 17 dBn
- 14 dBn

Calculation of Required Level In Speech Channel.


Level in speech
+
Sum of all sub channel, equ. Channel mn
= dBm (max) 20 Log - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - - Equ. channel No. for speech
dBu (max) = Voltage level corresponding to PEP of transmitted.
PLc terminal level:

10 WATT PEP
40 dBm PEP
34 dBm / 150 n

Example of calculation
Sub channel
Speech
Pilot

Speech level
Level Pilot

=
=
=
=

Eq. channel No.


10
2
------12
------34 20 log 12/10
32 4 dB/150 n
-14 dBr to speech
18.4 dB/150 n

NOTE:
Channel No.

Channel specimen

001 024
151 165
301 308

120
170
360

287

Type of medulator
Amplifier Frequency

CHAPTERXIII

Power Allocation:
Pr
Pr
PPEP
B
Fs
Rl
A
R

PPEP 20 log (nsi Bsi/Br + BZS/Br + Brc/Br + A.Bs/Br)


Signal level of Reference Channel dBm.
Peak envelope power dBm.
Noise Band width CHz.
Tel. Sig. Channel.
Reduced carrier.
10 without compander.
1 with compander.
= Reference channel.

=
=
=
=
=
=
=

Example:
PEP
= + 40 dBm
Operation mod : Speech only
Suppressed carrier
300 2400 Hz.
Pr = 40 20 log (80/80 + 10 x 2100/80
= 15 dBm
with reduced carrier
Pr

=
=

40 20 log (80/80 + 200/80 + 10 x 2100/80)


14.52 dBm.

Example:
PEP = 40 dBm
Operation mode : Speech + Data
300 to 2400 Hz
1-Sub channel 200 Bd
2-Sub channel 100 Bd earth
Suppressed Carrier.
Pr = 40 20 log (80/80 + 320/80 + 2 160/80 + 10 x 2100/80)
= 13.14 dBm
Reduced carrier
Pr = 40 20 log (80/80 + 320/80 + 2 160/80 + 200/80 + 10 x 2100/80)
= 12.54 dBm
Line Alternation:
Several modes of carrier signal propagation take place simultaneously on a multi
conductor line.
Main Characteristics of Natural Modes:
Each mode has its own specified propagation loss, Velocity and characteristic
impedance.
The modes are independent of each other. The phase voltage at any location is the
sector sum of the phase mode voltages at that location, similarly the phase current
is the vector sum of the mode currents.

288

CHAPTERXIII

NUMBER OF MODES:
3 modes in the case of single circuit line with 2 earth wires grounded at each
tower.
7 modes in the case of double circuit line with one insulated earth wire.
Coupling arrangements should be chosen that the above transmitting power of
lower loss mode.
For practical coupling arrangements, such as phase to earth, phase to phase or
inter circuit coupling, the transmitting power is generally injected in the form of a mode
mixture, part of it much high loss (ground) ground mode, this resulting in a certain model
conversion loss.
Line Alternation line
+ = L11 + 2 ac + aadd
aadd

L1

Additional loss caused by discontinuities e.g., Coupling


circuit, transposition etc
alternation constent of lower loss mode
f
= 0.07 ---------- + 10.7 dB / pam
dC n

f =
Frequency in KHZ
de =
Diameter of phase conductor (nm)
n =
Number of phase conductor in bundle.
Approx. + 10 % Upto 300 KHZ : + 20 % Upto 500 KHZ
Line Voltages above 150 KV
Earth resiotivity around 100 300 rm.
Additional alternation due fault distance.

289

CHAPTER-XIV
HV AC TEST
By R&D
SOME DETAILS ON DIELECTRIC TESTS:The dielectrics break down due to several factors like increased voltage
application, temperature, the age of dielectric materials, presence of moisture and other
contaminants.
When an arc is struck through an insulation, say of generator, it punches a pinhole
through the material. The result of the pinhole may not be felt immediately and an arc
may continue without causing damage for some time. Internal damages which take place
in voids in the dielectric erode electrical insulating materials causing serious damage. At
sometime minor faults can cause a short circuit causing considerable damage and may be
leading to major shut downs.
The following are some tests used for assessing insulation properties:
a)

IR value measurement with meggers, P-I value tests (10 min to 1 min
value)

b)

Hipot tests (D.C and A.C):

RECOMMENDED TEXT VALUES ARE:


I. GENERATORS: (1 MIN. TESTS)
a)

A.C tests for new winding or coil


Subsequent test
Old machines
Where 0.6 is the derating factor.

2E + 1
80% of first test.
0.6 (2E + 1)

b)

D.C. tests
A.C to D.C Conversion factor of 1.4 may be used.
i.e 11 KV A.C = 11 x 1.4 KV D.C.

c)

Example I:

d)

Example:
11 KV old Gen. D.C hipot test
Value = {(2x11)+1}x0.6x1.4
=19 KV

e)

Cables. (1 min)

11 KV Old m/c: A.C Hipot value = {(2x11)+1}x0.6 = 13.8KV

290

CHAPTER-XIV

A.C TESTS.
New Cables 2.5 x Uo Where Uo is the phase to neutral KV rating of cable.
If the Cable is 11/6.35 KV
test value = 2.5 x 6.35
If the cable is 11/11 KV (normally used in generators)
test value = 2.5 x 11 = 27.5 KV
D.C TEST:-

A.C to D.C conversion factor of 1.4 may be used. An abstract of CIGRE report
28.8.1988 given below will be interesting to go through.
The necessity for such a A.C voltage test level is since the m/c phase to Neutral
voltage may reach (1.2 x 11 KV) When a m/c is separated from grid due to some valid
reason the m/c voltage may reach 1.2 times the ratio voltage. If an earth fault occur in one
phase of cable the voltage in other phase of the Gen. may go to 11 KV to neutral in high
impedance earthed generators. The gen should withstand this value.

291

*CHAPTERXIV

292

*CHAPTERXIV

293

*CHAPTERXIV

294

CHAPTERXIV

C)

Tan delta and Capacitance tests on generators

For a good insulation the Capacitance is almost constant at all voltages, but for
insulation containing voids, the capacitance value increases with increase in voltage due
to discharge in void. Tan delta test is a sensitive test for delection of moisture content,
voids, crack and deterioration etc. Any steep value in the tan delta indicates some
abnormal condition. Absolute values are not useful generally. Comparison with previous
test results help.
There is a correction between increase in loss tangent (tan delta) and capacitance
with voltage and the energy dissipated in discharging voids.
D)

The other tests available are partial discharge test and 0.1 HZ test.

SCOPE:
This covers the high voltage AC test conducted on equipments at site to measure
the leakage current.
APPLICATION:
This test is done on the stacks of 110 KV & 230 lightning Arresters, at rated
voltage.
PERIODICITY:
The test is done at the time of commissioning, thereafter yearly.
TEST PROCEDURE:
TEST CIRCUIT:
L
Specimen
Under test

V
A
N
Varia

Voltmeter
HV Testing
Transformer

295

CHAPTERXIV

Test equipments
HV Testing Transformer 220V/60 KV, 600 VA
Ammeter 0-10 mA with resolution of 0.1 mA
Voltmeter 0-250 V AC
Variac 230 V/0-260, 5A.
The Lightning Arrester to be tested is completely isolated both from supply end
and from ground.
The connections are given as shown in the circuit diagram. The voltage is applied
gradually on the LA under test using the variac, keeping an eye on the ammeter &
voltmeter readings. The leakage current readings are noted at say 30%, 60% & 100% of
the MCOV rating of the Arrestor. Care should be taken not to exceed the MCOV. The
Voltage should be reduced as soon as MCOV is reached. Normally the test is done on
each stack separately.
Precautions:
The IR value of the LA is to be tested before conducting the HV AC test.
While testing individual stacks of a LA, it should be ensured that the stack is not
kept on the ground while testing.
The test voltage should not exceed the MCOV values for any stack. The HV leads
from the HV testing Transformer should not be very close to conducting surfaces and
adequate clearance shall be maintained.
Significance of the Test:
A surge arrestor normally acts as an insulator to normal system conditions, hence
this insulation property is, as in any insulation system, subject to certain deterioration.
Hence a power frequency leakage current test at the rated voltage of the Arrestor
is a practical field test to determine the condition of arrestors in service.
Results and Analysis:
The leakage current values have to be interpreted on a comparative basis,
emphasis is on variation from earlier recorded values than on absolute values. However a
limit value of 3 mA is taken as a criteria. Also, the leakage current value at rated voltage
should not exceed the minimum level recommended by the supplier. The readings are to
be used more as trend analysis for detecting deterioration/degradation in the Arrester
components.

296

CHAPTERXIV

Reference:
TNEB Code of Technical Institution/1990.
HV DC Test:
Scope:
This covers the high voltage DC test conducted on equipment at site to check the
voltage withstand capability and the leakage current.
Application:
The test is done on equipments, in which HV AC test cannot be effectively done
due to high capacitance and consequent power requirement of the testing apparatus.
Typical applications include test on Generator Stator Coils, H.T. motors, Cables,
Busbars etc.
Periodicity:
Normally the test is done after overhaul, recommissioning as per field
requirements.
Test Procedure:
Test Circuit:

Diode
HV
To
Specimen
t

R
C
N

A
Variac
ce

Ammeter
HV Testing
Transformer

297

CHAPTERXIV

Test equipments:
HV Testing Transformer

- 220 V/60 KV, 600 VA

Diodes

- HV Rectifier Diodes

Ammeter

- 1 mA 10 mA Range

Variac

- 1 phase, 5A
If the test specimen is a HT motor, the 3 phases of the stator winding terminals

may be shorted together and the High Voltage lead should be connected to it. If test can
be done on separate phases, the same may also be done. The HVDC is to be applied
gradually, preventing any overshoot of the ammeter. The leakage current may be
measured at the rated voltage after about one minute.
In the case of cables, while conducting the test on one phase, the other two phases
in a 3 core cable should be earthed.
Precaution:
The HV DC test must be done only after conducting the IR value test (with a 5
KV megger) and only if the IR value is found satisfactory.
As the capacitance of the specimen, would be normally high especially in the case
of cables, proper care should be taken to sufficiently discharge the specimen after the test.
Results and Analysis:
The normal leakage current values would be in the range of 0.05mA - 0.5mA.
Dissolved Gas Analysis test:
Scope:
This covers DGA test of Transformer oil samples using Gas chromatography
technique to detect and quantify dissolved gases in the oil.
Application:
The test is applied in case of HV Transformers mainly to detect incipient faults that may
develop inside the Transformers and generally to diagnose the condition of the
Transformers in service and to suggest future action.

298

CHAPTERXIV

Description:
The Transformer in service is subject to electrical & thermal stresses resulting in
liberation of gases from the hydrocarbon mineral oil used in the Transformers. Cellulose
(paper insulation) also is involved in the formation of gases, which are dissolved in the
oil. Gases may be formed, due to natural aging and also as a result of faults. Basically,
the mechanism of gas formation in oil includes oxidation, vapourisation, insulation
decomposition, oil breakdown etc. An assessment of these gases, that are dissolved in the
oil, would help in diagnosing the internal condition of the Transformer. Operation with a
fault may seriously damage the equipment and it is useful to detect the fault at a very
early stage of development.
In the case of fault, its type & severity may be inferred from the composition of
the gases and the rate of gas formation. In the case of incipient faults, the gases formed
are partly dissolved in the oil, hence periodic analysis of oil samples for the amount and
composition of dissolved gases forms a means of detecting faults.
DGA involves the following steps:
(a) Sampling of oil
(b) Extraction of gases from the oil
(c) Analysis of the extracted gases using gas chromatograph.
(d) Calculation of concentration of gases in PPM.
(e) Interpretation of results.
Periodicity:
The DGA is done on all power/auto transformer of 110KV class & above on
yearly basis and on special occasions warranted by service conditions. In the case of new
Transformers the test is recommended one month after commissioning and thereafter
yearly. A DGA test one month before expiry of the guarantee period of the Transformer
is also recommended.
TEST PROCEDURE:
Equipment used:
(a)

The Gas extraction plant consisting of magnetic stirrer, vacuum pump, mercury

reservior, degassing system.


(b)

Gas Chromotograph.

(c)

Output unit namely Integrator and PC

The Gas Chromatographic system consists of a carrier gas stream supplied by a


gas cylinder, a sample inlet /injection port, a chromatographic column, detectors, and an
output recorder.
299

CHAPTERXIV

The carrier Gas Nitrogen obtained from cylinder is passed through flow regulator
to the column. The carrier gas passes through the sample inlet system where it picks up
the sample to be analysed. The carrier gas sweeps the sample being injected into its
stream and enters into the column where the separation takes place.
Absorption columns are used for the separation of gaseous mixtures. Molecular
sieves Poropak Q type absorbents are used to separate CO, CO2, H2 gases. Silica gel type
absorbents are used to separate hydrocarbon gases.
Detectors (Flame Ionisation and Thermal conductivity detectors) are used in
detecting the Gases and works on the principle of thermal conductivity (TCD) of the
gases and the electrical conductivity of gases which have been partially ionised The FID
is used for hydrocarbons and the TCD for atmospheric gases like CO, CO2, & Hydrogen.
The Gas extraction plant is first evacuated with the help of the rotary vacuum
pump. When sufficient vacuum is achieved, oil is let into the degassing vessel and stirred
till complete degassing is achieved. Using the mercury column, the evolved gases are
compressed to the known volume.
The Gases are drawn by means of airtight syringes and injected into the Gas
Chromatograph, after the Gas Chromatograph is properly set up with carrier Gas etc. The
detection and quantification of gases take place in the Chromatograph. The
Chromatograph is calibrated by means of a standard gas mixture containing a suitable
known amount of each of the gas components to be analysed to establish the calibration
curve and retention time. An Integrator connected to the output of the Chromatograph
gives the proportional area in units for different gases. The method of calibration involves
measuring the area of each peak and retention time, identifying the gases corresponding
to each peak by comparison with the chromatogram obtained by calibration & obtaining
the gas values in PPM. The PPM values of the gases are calculated by comparing with
standard gas values and the quantity of dissolved gases in PPM is than calculated for each
gas.
Precaution:
The samples must be collected, labeled, stored, Transported and tested with
proper sampling, storing and testing procedures to obtain accurate results.
Analysis & Interpretation:
There are several methods for interpreting the results of the DGA test. Firstly a
check is made by comparing the concentration levels with levels that are permissible in a
healthy Transformer depending upon the service age of the Transformer. These
permissible concentration levels for gases are tabulated, for reference.
Then, in case of higher gas levels, than the permissible levels, or in cases where
gas levels show abnormal increasing trend from previous recorded values, the Rogers
method of diagnosis or the 3 ratio method prescribed in IS 10593 may be used for
interpretation.
Reference:
IS 1866, IS 9434, IS 10593, CPRI Publications.

300

CHAPTERXIV

LIMITING VALUES
IS 1866 1983
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------TEST
EQU. VOLTAGE
METHOD LIMIT
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ELECTRIC STRENGTH,
Min
145 KV
IS : 6792
50
KV
< 145 72.5 KV
40
< 72.5 KV
30
WATER CONTENT
PPM,

Max

SPECIFIC RESISTANCE
@ 90, 10 E 12 Ohm-Cm

Min

145 KV
< 145 KV

IS : 335

25
35

ALL V

IS : 6103

0.1

145 KV
< 145 KV

IS : 6262

0.2
1.0

ALL V

IS : 1448

0.5

0.015

TAN DELTA
@ 90,

Max

ACIDITY
Mg KOH/g,

Max

I F T, N/m,

Min

ALL V

IS : 6104

FLASH POINT
Deg C, Min

Min

ALL V

IS : 1448
125 or
Max. decrease of 15

ALL V

IS 1866

SEDIMENT AND/OR
PRECIPITABLE SLUDGE

NIL

PERMISSIBLE GAS CONCENTRATIONS

1
2
3
4
5
6
7

GAS
HYDROGEN
METHANE
ACETYLENE
ETHYLENE
ETHANE
CARBON MONOXIDE
CARBON DI OXIDE

<4 YEARS
100/150
50/70
20/30
100/150
30/50
200/300
3000/3500

301

4-10 YEARS
200/300
100/150
30/50
150/200
100/150
400/500
4000/5000

>10 YEARS
200/300
200/300
200/150
200/400
800/1000
600/700
9000/12000

CHAPTERXIV

Furan Analysis Test:


Introduction:
Paper is the major solid insulant in Transformers. While there are a number of
tests to monitor the condition of the oil in the Transformer, till recently there was no
practical technique available for condition assessment of the solid insulation in the
Transformers.
A new testing method has emerged in which condition of solid insulation is
assessed by analysing the degradation of products of cellulose paper called furanic
compounds using High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) or any other
suitable equipment.
Application:
The test is specially applicable to Transformers that have put in more than 10
years of service life and also in cases where the involvement of cellulose is suspected in
faults that have been detected irrespective of service age of Transformers.
Furan compounds:
Furanic compounds commonly referred to as furans, are products of degradation of
cellulosic materials and are dissolved in the oil. The furanic compounds that are detected.
quantified and analysed are
2 Furfural dehyde
5 Hydroxy methyl 2 furfural
2 Acetyl furan
5 Methyl 2 furfural
2 Furfural alcohol
of these 2 furfural dehyde is found to be the most commonly monitored furan
compound.
Periodicity:
The periodicity for this has not been established but it is suggested that a
reference test value for all Transformer in the 10th year of service and yearly testing from
the 15th year onwards may be adopted presently.
Test Procedure:
Equipments:
Equipments such as High Performance Liquid Chromatograph, visible range
spectrometer are used in Furan Analysis. However the HPLC is the standard equipment
used.
Method:
(a)
Furanic compounds in the oil samples are extracted from a known volume
of test specimen.
(b)
A portion of the extract is introduced into an HPLC system equipped with
a suitable analytical column & UV detector.
(c)
Furanic Compounds in the test specimen are identified and quantified by
comparison to standards of known concentration.

302

CHAPTERXIV

Result and Analysis:


The furan compounds are analysed on a trend basis. The concentration levels are
compared with previous values and the assessment of solid insulation as healthy, initial
stage of degradation, failure levels etc are made and appropriate action taken.
Reference
IEC 1198/1993
ASTM D 5837-95
CPRI Publications.
Transformer oil tests:
(a) Electric Strength (BDV)
Scope:
This covers test on oil samples of Transformers, which are inservice and use
uninhibited insulation oils and complying with the requirements of IS 335 when filled
new.
Definition:
The voltage at which the oil breaks down when subjected to an ac electric field
with a continuously increasing voltage contained in a specified apparatus. The voltage is
expressed in KV.
Application:
The test is applicable to Transformers of any rating and switch gears.
Periodicity:
The test is done on an annual basis along with all other oil characteristic tests and
more frequently if condition of the oil/equipment warrants. However the BDV of oil
samples from Transformer of all voltage class & from OLTC shall be tested on a
quarterly periodicity, separately with locally available test kits.
Test procedure:
The test is done with a test cell, made by glass or plastic, which shall be
transparent and non-absorbent, with an effective volume of 300 to 500 ml and preferably
a closed one. The electrodes are mounted on a horizontal axis and shall be 2.5 mm apart.
The test procedure is begun by adjusting the sphere gap of the electrodes
accurately by the use of 2.5 mm gauge (supplied with the kit).

303

CHAPTERXIV

Initially some of the oil from the sampling container is poured out to clean the tip
of the sample container. The test cell shall be cleaned by rinsing with the test oil twice
before filling the test oil for the test. The oil, then, should be poured gradually, avoiding
formation of air bubbles.
The oil is filled to a height of 40 mm from the axis of electrodes. The test cell
with oil is then placed in the testing unit. A period of 5 minutes is allowed for the oil to
settle. Then voltage is applied at the rate of rise of 2 KV/second. The voltage is thus
increased to a value where the oil breaks down and the corresponding voltage is noted.
The test is carried out six times on the same oil sample filling with intervals of 2 minutes.
The Arithmetic mean value of the six readings is taken as the BDV of the oil sample.
Precaution:
The sample must not be exposed to atmosphere and should be as near to the actual
oil in the Transformer as possible, in all aspects..
The sample container may be shaken upside down to get a homogenous sample
for test.
The container electrodes etc may be rinsed thoroughly with test sample, prior to
the commencement of the test.
Results and Analysis:
The test values are interpreted as per IS 335 for new oil and as per IS 1866 for oil
in service.
For oil in service the limit values are as follows:
Equipment voltage
145 KV and above
Between 72.5 KV and 145 KV
Less than 72.5 KVA

Limit (Minimum)
50 KV
40 KV
30 KV

Reference:
IS 335, IS 1866, IS 6792
(b) Flash Point:
Scope:
This covers test on oil samples of Transformers, which are inservice and use
uninhibited insulating oils and complying with the requirements of IS 335 when filled
new.

304

CHAPTERXIV

Definition:
It is the temperature at which the oil gives off so much vapour that this vapour,
when mixed with air, forms an ignitable mixture and gives a momentary flash on
application of a small pilot flame under the prescribed conditions.
Application:
The test is applicable to Transformer of all ratings.
Periodicity:
The test is done on an annual basis along with all other oil characteristic tests and
more frequently if condition of the oil/equipment warrants.
Test procedure:
The test equipments used are pensky-martin closed cup apparatus, thermometers
and variac.
The cup is cleaned well by rinsing twice with the test oil. Oil is filled upto the
marking provided and is placed in the test apparatus. The oil is heated and from about
100C onwards, a small pilot flame is used to ignite the mixture and the temperature at
which this mixture gets ignited is noted and recorded as the Flash-Point.
Results and Analysis:
Minimum limit is 125C or maximum decrease of 15C for all voltage class.
Reference:
IS 335. IS 1866, IS 1448
(c) Neutralisation Value (Acidity)
Scope:
This covers test on oil samples of Transformers, which are inservice and use
uninhibited insulating oils and complying with the requirements of IS 335 when filled
new.
Definition:
It is the measure of free organic and inorganic acids present in the oil. It is
expressed in terms of the number of milligrams of potassium hydroxide required to
neutralize the total free acids in one gram of the oil
Application:
The test is applicable to Transformers of all rating.

305

CHAPTERXIV

Periodicity:
The test is done on an annual basis along with all other oil characteristic tests and
more frequently if condition of the oil/equipment warrants.
Test Procedure:
The materials used for the test are indicator bottle containing universal indicator
with PH value of 4 & 11, clean, dry glass test tubes and a color chart calibrated with
neutralisation number values.
The test procedure is, 1.1 ml. of sampling oil to be tested is accurately pipetted
into a clean dry test tube. To this 1 ml of Isoprophyl, alcohol. 1.0 ml of 0.0085 N Sodium
Carbonate solution are added. Then, to this five drops of the universal indicator are added
and gently shaked.
0.0085 N of Sodium Carbonate solution is prepared by dissolving 0.085 N of
Sodium Carbonate in 10ml of distilled water to get 0.0085 N of sodium carbonate
solution.
The resulting mixture develops a color depending on the PH value of the mixture.
This color is compared with the standard chart, which gives the approximate
neutralisation value ranging from 0 to 1.0.
Results and Analysis:
Maximum limit for all voltage clause is 0.5.
Reference:
IS 335, IS 1866,
(d) Specific Resistance (Resistivity)
Scope:
This covers test on oil samples of Transformers, which are in service and use
uninhibited insulating oils and complying with the requirements of IS 335 when filled
new.
Definition:
It is the ratio of the dc potential gradient in volts per centimeter paralleling the
current flow within the specimens to the current density in amperes per square
centimeters at a given instant of time and under prescribed conditions. This is
numerically equal to the resistance between opposite faces of a centimeter cube of the
liquid. It is expressed in Ohm-centimeter.

306

CHAPTERXIV

Application:
The test is applicable to Transformers of all ratings.
Periodicity:
The test is done on an annual basis along with all other oil characteristic tests and
more frequently if condition of the oil/equipment warrants.
Test procedure
The equipments needed for the test are million megohm meter, oil cell, oil cell
heater.
The oil is heated upto 90C and 500 V d.c. applied, and after one minute the
megohm indicated is noted and the Resistivity value is calculated with appropriate
multiplication factors and cell constant.
Results & Analysis
Minimum limit is 0.1x10^12 Ohm-cm at 90C for all voltages.

Reference:
IS 335, IS 1866, IS 6103.
(e) Dielectric Dissipation Factor (Tan delta)
Scope:
This covers test on oil samples of Transformers, which are in service and use
uninhibited insulating oils and complying with the requirements of IS 335 when filled
new.
Definition:
It is the Tangent of the angle (delta) by which the phase difference between
applied voltage and resulting current deviates from 1/2 radian when the dielectric of the
capacitor consists exclusively of the insulating oil.
Application:
The test is applicable to Transformers of all ratings.
Periodicity:
The test is done on an annual basis along with all other oil characteristic tests and
more frequently if condition of the oil/equipment warrants.

307

CHAPTERXIV

Test procedure:
The equipments required are Dielectric constant test kit, oil cell, oil cell heater.
The oil cell is thoroughly rinsed with the sample oil to be tested and about 35 ml
of oil is taken in the cell and heated to 90'C. Then 500V AC is applied to the terminals of
the oil cell. The Tan delta bridge is balanced by adjusting the potentiometers to get null
deflection. The Tan delta value obtained is recorded.
Results & Analysis:
The maximum limit for Tan delta at 90'C is 0.2 for voltages of 145 Kv & above
and 1.0 for voltages below 145 KV.
Reference:
IS 335, IS 1866, IS 6262.
(f) Interfacial Tension:
Scope:
This covers test on oil samples of Transformers, which are in service and use
uninhibited insulating oils and complying with the requirements of IS 335 when filled
new.
Definition:
It is the force necessary to detach a planar ring of platinum wire from the surface
of the liquid of higher surface tension that is upward from the water-oil surface. It is
expressed in dynes/cm. or N/m.
Application:
The test is applicable to Transformers of all ratings.
Periodicity:
The test is done on an annual basis along with all other oil characteristic tests and
more frequently if condition of the oil/equipment warrants.
Test procedure:
The apparatus required are tensiometer, fine platinum ring, glass beakers.
Before starting the test, all glass beakers are cleaned with isoprophyl alcohol and
acetone. The platinum ring is also cleaned with isoprophyl alcohol & acetone. The
tensiometer is placed in a horizontal plane.

308

CHAPTERXIV

About 20-25 ml. of distilled water is taken in the sample container and is placed
on the adjustable platform of the tensiometer. The platinum ring is suspended from the
tensiometer. The adjusting platform is raised till the platinum ring is immersed in the
water to a depth not exceeding 6 mm and at the centre of the glass beaker.
Now gradually, the platform is lowered, increasing the torque of the ring system
by maintaining the tension arm in the zero position. As the film of water adhering to the
ring approaches the breaking point, slow adjustment is made to ensure that the moving
system is in the zero position when rupture occurs. The surface tension of the water is
noted. The value is normally 71 to 72 dynes/cm.
Now the tensiometer scale is brought to zero and the adjustable platform is raised
until the ring is immersed to a depth of about 5 mm in the distilled water. The sample oil
to be tested is poured slowly along the walls of the beaker over the distilled water. The
platform is slowly lowered, increasing the tension of the ring system. The IFT is the scale
reading at which the ring breaks free from the interface.
Results & Analysis:
The minimum limit for all voltage is 15 dynes/cm.
Reference:
IS 335, IS 1866, IS 6104
(q) Water Content:
Scope:
This covers test on oil samples of Transformers, which are in service and use
uninhibited insulating oils and complying with the requirements of IS 335 when filled
new.
Description:
This test is for the determination of water content usually in the range of 0-75
ppm in the oil.
The Karl-fisher method is used. The method is based on the reaction of water with
Iodine and Sulphur-di-oxide in Pyridine/methonol solution.
Application:
The test is applicable to Transformers of all ratings.
Periodicity:
The test is done on an annual basis along with all other oil characteristic tests and
more frequently if condition of the oil/equipment warrants.

309

CHAPTERXIV

Test Procedure:
The materials required for the test are methanol with less than 0.02% water
content, Karl-fisher Reagent, Titration vessel.
The titration vessel is made moisture free.
The Karl fisher Reagent and the methanol are taken in the two sides of the burette
to levels. A certain quantity of methanol is allowed in the test vessel. The pointer will
show end point as water. The electro magnetic stirrer should rotate at a speed of 150-300
rpm. Karl Fisher Reagent is allowed into the vessel to neutralise the water. When all the
water is separted, the pointer will show Karl Fisher Reagent-O'. A known quantity of
water say 20l is introduced with a syringe. The pointer will once again show water
indication. Steadily and gradually the Karl Fischer Reagent is added continuously so as to
bring the pointer to Karl Fisher 'O' position. The initial and final readings are noted. The
difference is the volume of Karl fisher required to neutralise 20l of water. The same
procedure is repeated with sample oil and the water content present in the oil is calculated
using the formula (20 X K.F. required to neutralise the Oil X 103 ) / ( 25 X 0.88 X K.F.
required to neutralise water).
Results & Analysis:
The minimum limit for Transformers of voltage class 145 KV & above is 25 PPM
and for voltages below 145 KV is 35 ppm.
Reference:
IS 335, IS 1866, IS 2362
(h) Sludge Test:
Scope:
This covers test on oil samples of Transformers, which are in service and use
uninhibited insulating oils and complying with the requirements of IS 335 when filled
new.
Description:
This test is conducted to determine the presence of sediments and perceptible
sludge in the oil.
Application:
The test is applicable to Transformers of all ratings.
Periodicity:
The sludge test is carried out when the IFT value of oil is very low say below 13
Dynes / cm.

310

CHAPTERXIV

Test procedure:
11 ml of the test sample oil is pipetted in a clean conical flask. 100 ml. of Hexane
or N-heptane is added to this oil. The mixture is shaken well and is kept in a dark place
for 24 hours. At the end of 24 hour, it is checked for any precipitation in the oil. If any
precipitation is observed, the sample oil contains sludge.
Results & Analysis:
For all voltage class sludge should be NIL.
Reference:
IS 335, IS 1866.
Note:
All Indian standards referred versions are the latest versions revised/amended
from time to time.
Test procedure for measurement of Tan delta and Capacitance of equipments.
1. Scope: This covers the method of measuring the dielectric loss properties of the
insulation system of equipments by measuring the Tan delta and Capacitance values.
2. Definition: Tan delta is the tangent of the dielectric loss angle of an insulation
system. It is also referred to as dissipation factor or dielectric loss factor.
3. Significance of Tan delta value in insulation systems:
In an insulation system, the dielectric loss is given by V2 WC tan delta watts. If
the dielectric power loss is more, the dielectric strength of the insulation would be
reduced. The Tan delta is affected by moisture, voids and ionization in the Insulation.
Hence it is indicative of the quality of insulation.
4. Principle of Tan delta and Capacitance measurement for HV equipments.
4.1 The High Voltage electrical equipments have conductors HV and LV separated by
an insulating medium. It can also be a conductor or winding with an HT terminal and the
LV terminal connected to ground. These systems can be represented as two and three
terminal capacitors. An example of a two terminal capacitor is the bushing of an
equipment. The central conductor is one terminal and the mounting flange (ground) is the
other terminal. An example for a three terminal capacitor is a bushing with a Tan delta
test tap. In this case the central conductor is one terminal, the test tap is the second
terminal and the mounting flange is the third terminal. Likewise most of the HV
equipments can be visualised as capacitors with simple and complex insulation systems
and these can be measured with a test set that can measure both grounded and
ungrounded specimens.

311

CHAPTERXIV

4.2 The Vector Relationship:


I

IC

S
Q

Ir

In the ideal case, the capacitance current leads the voltage by 90'. But in practice,
in all insulation systems, there exists a loss current Ir which is small in magnitude but in
phase with the voltage, as shown above. The total current I, therefore leads the voltage by
an angle which is less than 90. The angle by which it is less than 90 is known as the
loss angle delta and in all practical cases, the magnitude of Ic and I are same as Ir is very
small and the power factor and dissipation factor tend to be the same.
In the above diagram Dissipation factor = tan delta; As the important
characteristic of a capacitor is its dissipation factor, it is measured and monitored as a
diagnostic test of insulation systems.
5. Application:
The test is conducted on the following:
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
(6)

Power and Auto Transformer Bushings


Power and Auto Transformer Windings
Generator stator coils
Current and Potential Transformers.
CVTs
Any other HV equipment where insulating condition is to be tested.

6. Periodicity:
The test is done at the time of commissioning and thereafter yearly and on actual
requirement depending on the conditions of the equipment.

312

CHAPTERXIV

Test procedure:
There are two basic versions of testing (i.e.) Grounded specimen test and
ungrounded specimen test. The circuit diagram are shown below:

313

CHAPTERXIV

314

CHAPTERXIV

The circuit connections are given as shown above depending on whether the
specimen is grounded or floating. The Input voltage is raised gradually through a variac
till the desired HV Voltage is reached for the specimen. The bridge circuit consists of a
differential transformer, R-C network, known standard capacitor (Cn) and the unknown
specimen (Cx) under test. The same HV voltage is applied to both the known and
specimen capacitors. The currents through the two capacitors pass through the differential
Transformer, which is balanced by means of adjustment of the bridge capacitors, which
are provided with multiplication selectors. Once the bridge is balanced for the
capacitance value the capacitance selected is read directly from the multipliers. The tan
delta is then adjusted to get the balanced horizontal position in the Oscilloscope. The
value of Tan delta is also directly read from the bridge Tan delta selector with appropriate
decimals.
Precautions:
(1)
It is always preferable to conduct the Tan delta test after the IR value test has been
done and found satisfactory.
(2)

The test voltage should not exceed the rated voltage of the equipment, under test.

(3)
Adequate safety precautions are to be taken when the test is on, Inadvertent entry
to testing area must be prevented by proper measures.
(4)
Bushings etc. should be well cleaned and the test must be carried out in dry
weather condition.
(5)

Make sure the input voltage variac is in the 'O' position before the start of the test.

(6)
Interference from neighbouring live lines should be minimum. Modern kits with
interference suppression circuits are preferred while testing in yards etc.
(7)
For Generator windings and higher capacitance specimen's the variac and the
testing Transformer should be of higher rating to carry the increased charging current.
Test value Interpretation:
In the case of Bushings the ISS prescribes a maximum value of 0.007 for oil
impregnanted condensor bushings and 0.020 for noncondenser bushings. These are
values for new bushings and for bushings, windings and other equipments that are
inservice trend monitoring is the best suggested course for proper analysis of the test
results.
Reference:
1.
2.

MWBTan delta and Capacitance kit operating manual.


IS2099-1973.

315

CHAPTER-XV
MAINTENANCE OF PROTECTION
RELAYS
Er.K. Mounagurusamy
CE / P&C
9.1 SITE VISITS:
During the site visits, the following inspection works may be done in the protection
and control rooms and arrangements may be made to coordinate with other
departments for necessary works

1. The room should be tidy and clean


2. Sufficient lighting should be there
3. There should not be any leakage of water
4. Sun rays should not fall directly on panels.
5. The panels should be vermin proof.
6. The inside of the panels should be free from cobwebs, dust, hanging loose wires etc.
7. The room temperature should be with in limits.
8. The outside of the panels should be clean.
9. All the relay covers should be tightened and clean.
10. Fault recorders should be in working condition.
11. All the relay catalogues and drawings should be well maintained and be available in
easily traceable location. A list of these items may be readily available.
12. General condition of the batteries should be checked and reported to the concerned if
any improvement is required.
9.2. MAINTENANCE TESTING OF RELAYS:
All the protective relays have to be tested ONCE in a year and calibrated.
The procedures for testing should be well studied and understood. Latest digital
relays have self test facilities and these relays need testing once in 5 years only as per
the manufacturers. Otherwise periodic testing is extremely important, as almost all
the protective equipments are passive for most of the time. They are called upon to
act only when abnormal conditions occur.
9.3. GENERAL PRECAUTIONS ON TESTING AND HANDLING OF RELAYS:
- Examine relay coils like current coil, voltage coil, flag coil, D.C. auxiliary coil,
timer coil etc. for continuity.
- Check for burns on contacts, sticking up of moving parts, meeting surface and fixed
contacts.

316

CHAPTERXV

Experience shows that moving parts normally stick to the mechanical back stop.
In armature attracted relays, there is remanence magnetic sticking up also. The starters in
L3WYS distance relays have this problem. Contacts sticking up with backstop have been
experienced frequently in EE relays. These should be cleaned each time without fail with
trichloroethylene (good to clean oil and grease), CTC (good to remove carbon), or white
petrol (good to clean disc jewel bearings).
9.4 HANDLING OF ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT:
a) A persons normal movements can easily generate electrostatic potentials of
several thousand volts. Discharge of these voltages into semiconductor devices
particularly chips when handling electronic circuits can cause serious damage, which
often may not be immediately apparent but the reliability of the circuit will have been
reduced.
b) Do not remove the modules unnecessarily. However, if it becomes necessary to
withdraw a module, the following precautions should be taken to preserve the high
reliability and long life for which the equipment has been designed and manufactured
-

ensure that you are at the same electrostatic potential as the equipment by
touching the case.

Handle the module by its front plate, frame or edges of the PCB. Avoid
touching the electronic components, PCB track or connectors.

Do not pass the module to any person without first ensuring that you are
both at the same electrostatic potential. Shaking hands achieves
equipotential.

Place the module on an antistatic surface or on a conducting surface which


is at the same potential as yourself.

Store or transport the module in a conductive bag.

If you are making measurements on the internal electronic circuitry of an


equipment in service, it is preferable that you are earthed to the case with a
conductive wrist strap.

Wrist straps should have a resistance to ground between 500 K 10 m


Ohms.

If a wrist strap is not available, you should maintain regular contact with
the case to prevent the build up of static.

Instruments used should be earthed to the case whenever possible.

Re-soldering may affect the capacitance of the circuitry.

9.5

Take precautions to avail line clear on the equipment to be tested. Place green
flags in the panel under test.

9.6

Ensure that P.T voltages are not available to the relay under test. P.Ts in
generators should be kept isolated : otherwise back feeding of high-voltage to the
Gen. is possible.

317

CHAPTERXV\

9.7.

Mark down the existing physical position of potentiometer, time dial pointers etc.
with a pencil. This will help restore in case of inadvertent changes during
handling.

9.8.

Actuation of certain relays like Generator differential or split phase relay may
release CO2 in generators. Hence, proper isolations of CO2 circuits should be
ensured.

9.9.

Actuation of certain relays could operate LBB schemes. Precautions should be


taken, while testing LBB and BB relays, extra care should be taken to isolate the
TRIPPING Circuits. In some cases, BB relays and other relays may be in same
core of C.T. Unless care is taken, the ENTIRE SUB STATION may go BLACK
OUT.

9.10. There may be necessity to change some settings during testing. Original settings
should be restored by making entries in site register.
9.11. Some wiring may need removal for testing. They should be entered in register and
before closing the job the wiring should be restored promptly. Any removal of
TB. links should be treated similarly. If ferrules are not available in the removed
leads, temporary ferruling should necessarily be done before removing.
9.12. The fuses removed should be entered in the site register to enable putting back
without fail.
9.13. Cartridge type fuses should not be checked with higher range in multimeters or
for continuity buzzer. It should give zero ohms in an accurate low range
multimeter since failed fuses also give continuity in high ranges.
9.14. Current can be injected to the relay without removing them C.T leads. Removal is
not a must but this should be judiciously done. Refer to 9.9 above.
9.15. Earth fault selection relays in some distance relays need shorting during testing to
avoid overloading.
9.16. Temporary wedges placed should be removed back.
9.17. The relay coils and the auxiliary switching relays are not continuous rated. Hence
they should not be engaged continuously.
9.18. Some operations like test closing of breakers could lead to L.T. supply
changeovers unwantedly and even they may back charge the machine.
Precautions have to be taken.
9.19. Once L.C. is availed, any operation is the responsibility of the engineer who has
availed the L.C. but it shall be done with information to operator concerned.
9.20. The maintenance engineers should also witness the relay tests to the extent
possible since they are the owners of the relays.
9.21. While test tripping the breakers through the relays, the manually picked up relays
should not be released until the breaker has tripped since the relay contacts are not
designed to break the trip coil current. When the breaker trips, the trip coil current
will be broken by the breaker auxiliary contact.

318

CHAPTERXV

9.22. After normalising, the availability of D.C. voltage, P.T. voltage at the relay inputs
should be confirmed. The load current passing through the C.T. should be
confirmed by measuring the voltage burden between the current coil terminals,
noting down the load current also in the register.
9.23. Do not try to do any modification to the wiring or change in settings without
analysing fully and without having consultation with superiors unless other wise
situation warrants, in which case ratification should be later obtained.
9.24. Do not assume that the scheme drawings are always correct. Some modifications
could have been done and not marked. Always have a suspecting eye.
9.25. Any modification done should be communicated to all concerned who should
incorporate them in the drawings in their offices without fail.
9.26. History of settings and trouble shooting should be entered in permanent registers.
9.27. Faulty operations or LED indications should be checked.
9.28. Wherever master relays are available, all the connected relays should be test
operated to ensure the picking up of master relay. Test tripping of breaker can be
checked through master relay.
9.29. All alarm/ annunciator points should be checked without fail.
9.30. P.T. voltage availability, D.C. aux. supply availability across all the relays
terminals should be confirmed.
9.31. Voltage burden at the relay current terminals after normalising the equipment
should be measured and recorded in the test report also noting down the load
current at the time of burden measurement.
9.32. It is preferable to note down in the glass cover of the relays the date of last test
done.
9.33. LOAD ON C.Ts
The peak load on the lines, feeders and substation transformers may be reviewed
for any possible overloading of C.Ts beyond the limits once in 3 months and
entered in a separate permanent register called Peak Load on C.Ts. The C.Ts
can be overloaded by 20% continuously.
9.34. RECORDS:
An official test circuit diary for each type of relay shall be maintained in hand,
containing the test procedure, precautions to be taken, isolation to be done, model
test result, settings adopted etc. Relay catalogues should invariably be on hand.
All the testing works and results should be first recorded at site in a permanent register/
note books with printed page numbers to avoid tampering of details later. The test results
shall be authenticated by the engineer present. Names of the testers should be entered.
The test results may then be entered in the specified form and sent to higher officers.
Standardised specimen test report form is enclosed in Annexure.2 B/A means before
adjustment and A/A means after adjustment. Changes may be done in the form if
necessary to suit local conditions. Any abnormality noticed during the testing may be
recorded under the column Remarks in the test report.

319

CHAPTERXV

The test schedule with tests done date and tests due date shall be displayed conspicuously
in the office room in a Fixograph or in a board so as to review them frequently.
The details of the tests done may also be recorded in a permanent register with pagevar
allocation for each relay. A few pages together may be allocated for each relay or set of
relays in the case of 3O/L. One register may be put up for each substation or for more
substations combined.
A specimen of one page of the register for a relay is given below:
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Feeder/Line/Transformer :
S/S :
Relay details
: (Make, Type, Model, Sl.No., rating,
D.C.aux. voltage etc.)
Settings Range available :
Settings adopted
:
C.T.Ratio available
:
C.T.Ratio adopted
:
V.T.Ratio adopted
:
Date of Commissioning
:
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Sl.
Date of Date of
Remarks
Signature Signature
No.
Last
Next
of
of
test
test
Protection Reviewing
done.
Due.
Engineer. Officer.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------1) Deails of
settings changed
with reference
letters no.
2) Details of any
defects.
3) Details of
modification
4) Details of
Obsoletion
Communicated
by the
suppliers.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

320

CHAPTERXV

TEST REPORT
1.
2.
3.

4.

Name of S/S.
Name of Feeder/Line
(a) Relay
(b) Make
(c) Type
(d) Sl.No.
Nature of Test

:
:
:
:
:
:
:

5.
6.
7.
8.

Date of last testing


Date of this testing
Page No.of Test record (site) Book
Testing instruments used

:
:
:
:

(Ex. Distance Relay Main 1/Main 2)


(ABB)
(Ex. RAZOA)
Special/Routine (State reason if it
is special)

(Including Volume No.)


(Ex: TURH KIT, WICO megger,
5A ammeter, 150 V Volmeter)

9.

Test Results:
(a) Relay (Ex: For O/C relay)
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Test
Time
Time Obtained
Remarks
Current Exp.
R O
Y O
B O
BA
AA
BA
AA
BA
AA
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------P.U.
2 Amp.
2.1
2.1
2.1
-2.0
-4A

1 Sec.

1.4

1.0

1.1

--

1.0

--

Time dia
adjusted
8A
0.7 Sec.
0.9
0.71 0.75
-0.65
-in R
phase
20 A
0.3 Sec.
0.5
0.31 0.31
-0.28
-relay.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------(b)

Checking of Flag or LED (indications of relays) and the annunciator points.

(c)

Meggering
C.T.Sec. to Earth

(d)

C.T.Burden (VOLTAGE MEASURING IN THE C.T.SECONDARY CIRCUTT AT


REIAY TERMINALS)
R-N = V : Y-N = V : B-N =V
Load Current:

(e)

P.T.Voltage
R-Y = R-N =
Y-B = Y-N =
B-R = B-N =

(f)

Trip Circuit testing (test tripping the breakers through relay)

(g)

Remarks:
1)

(Sd) TESTER

Checking of all fuses

ASST.ENGINEER

321

ASST.EXE.ENGINEER.

CHAPTER-XVI
GAS INSULATED SUB-STATIONS
Er.K. Mounagurusamy
CE / P&C
The informations given be low are abstracted from several ASEA GIS equipment
booklets.
Gas insulated Sub-station of certain types takes up only about 10% of the area of
conventional Sub-stations.
Figure-1 shows below the comparison, for a volt level upto 170 KV.

Figure-1

HISTORY: Use of SF-6 gas for breakers was started in mid sixties.
GIS programmes were launched in seventies. In early 1977, first GIS was
commissioned by ASEA in Sweden upto 420 KV. Now GIS of several thousand KV are
available.
At lower levels of voltage three phase systems are used.
At UHV levels single phase systems are used.
ADVANTAGES:
1)
2)
3)
4)

The area required is very much less


Quicker and simpler erection
Easier maintenance
Insensitive to influences of surroundings

GAS PRESSURE:
The higher the gas pressure (density), the higher will be the insulation strength of
the gas and smaller the dimensions of the enclosure. Normal pressure is 7 bars.

322

CHAPTERXVI

In some designs, the equipment can withstand the rated voltage also when the gas
pressure decreases to atmopheric pressure provided no switching is done.
COMPONENTS:
-

Conductors
Insulators
Enclosures
Gas
Spacers

SPACERS: - forms a solid insulation, in parallel with gas, between the conductor in the
centre and the surrounding earthed enclosure. The earthed enclosure is in the form of
metallic tube. In the centre of this there is the conductor which is supported and held in
place by insulating cones called spacers. The space between conductor and enclosure is
filled with SF 6 gas at overpressure. See Figure 2 to 5.

323

CHAPTERXVI

FIGURE - 2

FIGURE - 3

FIGURE - 4

324

CHAPTERXVI

FIGURE - 5

FIGURE - 6

325

CHAPTERXVI

326

CHAPTERXVI

FIGURE - 6

FIGURE - 8

327

CHAPTERXVI

The spacers have to withstand mechanical forces from gravity, apparatus function,
pressure differences between gas sections, earthquakes and short circuit currents. Disc
type spares are also used.
CONDUCTORS:
Consists of aluminum tubes with joining contacts at the ends. Current is transmitted via
the spring loaded contact member to the copper parts and against which the contact
member rests. These are later welded to the aluminium parts.
JOINTS:
There are angled joints and T-Joints
EXPANSION JOINTS:
Expansion joints are provided partly to compensate for the tolerance during manufacture
and partly to allow for thermal expansion.
OTHER COMPONENTS: Like disconnectors, CTs, VTs etc. are shown in figure
below:
FIGURE-9
Disconnector straight
1. Fixed contact
2. Moving contact
3. Operating devise

328

CHAPTERXVI

1. FIGURE-10
Angled and T disconnectors
Disconnectors can be operated by Motor devices.

T-disconector

Fig - 10

329

CHAPTERXVI

Shows continuous position indication


Possibility of using the earthing switches as a test probe for measuring contact
resistance and polarity of instrument transformers
Can be located in the same housing as disconnectors but also elsewhere.
Can be operated either manually or Motor operated
There are two types such as fast operating and slow operating

FIGURE 12
VOLTAGE TRANSFORMERS

Voltage transformers can be set up where it is required i.e. on bus bars and outgoing
circuits.

330

CHAPTERXVI

Figure 13
CURRENT TRANSFORMER

331

CHAPTERXVI

332

CHAPTERXVI

FIGURE 16: SF-6 AIR BUSHING

The bushing can be adopted to any existing oil filled or PEX cable
-

Also used for High potential testing of GIS bus bars etc.

EXTENSION:
The GIS can be extended usually by lengthening the bus bars and adding more
breaker groups provided necessary space is provided in the building. Erection sequence
must be checked in detail. Another question to investigate is the procedure of testing after
installation of the new parts.
SAFETY:
The probability of anybody being injured in a GIS will 0.000025 per year or once
per 1300 years. GIS is said to be 40 times safer than conventional sub-stations
TESTING OF GIS:
1)

Testing of Gas:

Non return valves are provided to fix the gas density switches. After removing the
switch assembly, external gas hoses can be connected and gas filling, draining, testing
can be done.
2)

Breaker testings:

Since the poles are inside the gas tank, approach to do the timing tests, primary
injection through CTs were difficult. For one end, the earth switch end which is insulated
before the earth connection can be used. For the other end the earth switch cannot be used
since all the three phases are looped inside the SF-6 chamber and only the neutral is
brought out. Hence, the cable ends which was at a distance of 100 meters from S.S. were
used for the above tests. The layout of cable system is shown in Figure-17. This was also
used for hipot testing the cables. D.C. hipot testing of GIS has to be avoided.
333

CHAPTERXVI

334

CHAPTERXVI

335

CHAPTER-XVII
REVIEW AND ANALYSIS OF TRIPPINGS
Er.K. Mounagurusamy
CE / P&C
ALL THE TRIPPINGS SHOULD BE REVIEWED.
Analysis of the operation of protective relays or the scheme is very important for a
protection engineer.
The following types of operations need analysis:-

Maloperation i.e False tripping in the absence of primary fault.


Incorrect operation or unwanted operation during a primary fault.
Failure to operate.

The protection engineer may carry out the analysis in the above lines and do the needful
for improvements. The action taken may be reported to the head office for scrutiny. There
are always possibilities for human error in the protection works and hence a scrutiny by
another agency is an Absolute Necessity.
All the trippings of transmission and sub-transmission level lines and transformers at
Substations should be reported by T.M. to the concerned head office in the form given
below:

Transmission line fults:


A line fault is a condition where electric current follows an abnormal path due to
failure or the removal of insulation which normally confines it to the conductor.
Insulation is usually either air or high resisting material which may also be used
as a mechanical support. Air insulation can be accidentally short circuited by birds,
rodents, snakes, monkeys tree limbs, unintentional grounding by maintenance crew etc.,
or broken down by over voltage due to lighting or weakened by ionisation due to fire.
Organic insulation can deteriorate due to heat or ageing or can b broken down by over
voltage due to lighting, switching surges or faults at other locations.
Porcelain insulators can be bridged by moisture with dirt salt or industrial
pollution or can develop a crack due to mechanical forces. In such cases the initial
lowering of resistance causes a small current to bee diverted which hastens the
deterioration or ionisation causing this current further to increase in a progressive manner
until a flash over occurs.

336

CHAPTER-XVII

Overhead transmission lines are most vulnerable for lighting strokes. More than
50% of electrical faults of overhead lines are known to be caused by lightning. As per
Van C. Warrington, all faults occur within 40 degrees before voltage maximum at lines
over 100KV. The shield wires intercept most direct strokes and allow them to be
conducted harmlessly to ground. Some time, they could reach the conductors below the
shield wire. In such cases, the lightning surge will bee distributed in all directions of the
lines connected, depending upon the point of incidence. For example, a lighting strike
penetrating the shielding system and terminating on a phase conductor would generate
traveling waves of the same magnitude and polarity propagating in opposite directions.
Some times, these waves may attenuate and die without any problems. Most of
the times, they keep on propagating on the line. Of all the line insulators are in healthy
condition, the surges reach the terminal substations and be bypassed to the ground
through lighting arresters. In this case, protection needs to operate and line will remain
healthy since surge current is by passed within micro seconds.
If any of the lines insulators re weak, it can undergo flash over due to the surge.
The possibility of even the direct stroke causing a flash over near voltage zero is
minimised by the fact that the lighting stroke lasts only one or two microseconds and, if
the line voltage were near zero at the moment, there would be nothing to sustain the flow
of power after the stroke. Although the stroke current may be upto 100,000A there is less
then a coulomb in a stroke, so there would be no cloud of ionised air maintaining a low
resistance path until the voltage built up (Van C. Warrington : vol 2). Once a flash over
occurs, there will be system frequency follow current depending upon the fault level and
the arc will not extinguish till the system voltage is interrupted by the protection. This
means that both end relays of a tied line should operate and isolate the line. A single end
tripping will not suffice. Many a times, the flash over does not damage the insulator and
the line can be recharged. This is called a passing faults. Short circulating the line
insulator by snakes, birds etc., as discussed before, will also come under this category.
But, if the insulator gets damaged by the flashover, it will not withstand the power
system voltage if reenergized and the protection will again operate. This is a kind
permanent fault. There are different types of permanent faults which are not discussed
here.
The flashover may occur in more than one towers due the lighting surge wave. If
one such flashover leads to a permanent damage in the second zone of a distance relays
and another flashover causes a temporary flashover in its first zone coverage, both end
relays will trip on first zone and may cause confusion when analysing by the protection
engineer.
Single end trappings should be treated in a special manner. From the discussions
so far made, at will be clear that there can not be single end trippings at all! But, they do
occur. A tall tree ay swing and touch a conductor in the second zone but may withdraw
before the second zone time of the relay. In this case, only the other end will trip on first
zone. A jumper may get open and fall on the tower arm in one side and the tripping will
be single en only. A conductor may snap and tall to ground in only one side of the lines
and the result will be single end tripping. Hence, the protection engineer shall not take
granted any single end tripping which is very rare. If the cause is not established clearly,
the protection system should be checked thoroughly in the case of single end trippings.

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Lighting need not even come in direct contact with power lines to cause problems,
since induced charges can be introduced into the system from nearby lighting strokes to
ground. Although the cloud and earth charges are neutralised through the established
cloud to ground path, a charge will be trapped on the line. The magnitude of this
trapped charge depends on the initial cloud to earth gradient and proximity of the stroke
to the line. Voltage induced on the line from the remote stroke will propagate along the
line causing similar problems as that of direct stroke.
When a lightning directly strike a tower or the earth conductor the tower has to
carry huge transient currents. If the tower footing resistance is considerable, then the
potential of the tower would rise steeply with respect to the line and consequently the
insulator string would flash over. This is known a BACKFLASHOVER. It is clear
that too many trippings on temporary faults may also indicate more tower footing
resistance, needing improvements.

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TM
From

To
The Superintending Engineer

Asst.Exe.Engineer/Shift

Copy to the Exe. Engineer/O

110 KV/line tripping

Copy to the EE/GRT (MRT)

message

Copy to the AEE/GRT (MRT)

1.
2.
3.
4.

Name of Sub-Station
Name of line
Time & Date of tripping
Relay indications
at both End.
5. Is the line radial or
Tied at both ends
6. Load on the line prior
to tripping MW, MVAR,
AMPS.
7. Bus voltages recorded
before tripping at
the time of tripping after tripping.
8. Special observations
like grunt in generators,
flickering of lamps
oscillations in panel
meters.
9. Any other simultaneous
trippings of 132 KV
lines or distribution
lines.
10. Climate
11. Time and date of
normalisation
12. Remarks

:
:
:
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
:
)
)
:

Asst. Exe. Engineer / Shift.

339

CHAPTERXVII

1) Every grid and upstream radial feeders tripping shall be reviewed monthly.
2) Even correct trippings of grid feeders and upstream radial feeders should also be
reviewed and classified as IN ORDER and reported to higher office. A correct
tripping in the view of one engineer (may be inexperienced) may be a wrong one.
There are instances that single end tripping of grid feeders have been classified as IN
ORDER in some cases without analysis. Correct single end trippings of grid lines are
also possible but extremely remote a line getting open and conductor making
ground fault in only one side.
3) Review of transformers and generators shall be reviewed then and there. Our old
practice is that the review should be made within 24 hours. It is felt that this is even
now very essential. Maloperation of any equipment i.e. radial lines, tie lines,
Transformers, Generators shall be analysed within 24 Hours.
4) Correct operations shall be classified as due to
-

Weather

Lightning

External incidents

Failure of line or equipments

Overload

System disturbance

Cause not known.

5. Incorrect relay operations shall be classified as due to


-

Design limitations

Inadequate or Incorrect settings

Construction defect

Maintenance defect

Failure of relay component

Caused by pilot channel

Personnel errors

Incorrect application of relays

Unexplained.

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CHAPTERXVII

6. Relay tripping registers shall be maintained by protection wing as well as substations


O&M wing.
7. Protection engineers should be knowing how to calculate the fault level at any point
in the system. Fault level of local substations should be calculated by them and
exhibited in the premises conspicuously.
8. Some of the interesting review and analysis are discussed below:

I. WRONG CONNECTION OF GENERATOR ROTOR EARTH FAULT


RELAYS AT ALIYAR POWER HOUSE AND SHOLAYAR POWER HOUSE.I.
The Generator rotor earth fault relays were with wrong connections at Aliyar
Power House and Sholayar Power House.2 since their commissioning. The relays were
not operating during normal conditions though there was an earth fault existing in the
rotor and were operating Correctly for a short moment during shutdown sequences.
The circumstances which warranted the tracing of the fault and action taken to rectify the
defect are narrated in the following lines:On 23.12.79, 27.7.80 and 1.9.80 the rotor earth fault relay of the 60 M.W. Hydro
generator at Aliyar Power House acted for a short-while during normal shutdown
sequences soon after the shutdown impulse was given.
Every time the relay was tested and found to be normal. The details of the I.R.
value of the rotor circuits meggered on 23.12.79 are not available and the I.R. value of
the rotor circuits meggered subsequent to the operation of the relay on 27.7.80 and 1.9.80
were low and was of the order of 0.2 to 0.3 M. Ohms.
No serious thought was given for the relay operation on 23.12.79 considering it as
freakish. Only after a recurrence on 27.7.80 the matter was studied in detail.
The relay was acting just for a moment during the shutdown sequence and it was
not acting during normal running of the machine or during shutdown time and this
required a deep study of the subject.
While going through the original schematic drawing of the Generator on 30.9.80
it was observed that the rotor earth fault relay was given wrong connection.

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The scheme as per the given drawing is shown below :

In this connection scheme, the rectifiers in the bridges of the relay will permit
flow of current when the circuit is closed by earthing the point A. This current would be
due to the D.C. source voltage available at the terminals 9 & 10 of the relay. It could be
seen that the D.C. voltage on t he rotor is in subtractive series connections with the
D.C. source voltage of the relay. Hence, if the earthing point is slowly moved from point
A towards point B, the resultant voltage across the relay coil would be V9-10 V A F.
As long as V9-10 is greater than VA-F, there would be a flow of current through the relay
element R. When VAF becomes greater than V 9-10, the resultant voltage would not be
able to drive any current through the circuit since there are the rectifiers in the bridge of
the relay which will not permit any flow of current when they are supplied with a voltage
of reverse polarity. This means that only a very small zone of the motor from the point A
towards B was under protection of the relay so far. (It was confirmed later that the relay
current was zero even when the point B was earthed solidly.)
In the first look, it seemed that the problem has further confused since it was
operating during a particulars period of shutdown sequence, though it was connected in a
non-operating way. On further analysis, the wrong connection was found to be the
cause for the momentary operation of the relay during the shutdown sequence alone as
explained below.
The Generator at Aliyar has de-excitation scheme during shutdown sequence
i.e. as soon as the shutdown impulse is given, the main exciter voltage is reversed rapidly
to cause de-excitation of the rotor before the tripping of the field breaker. When the
main exciter output voltage is reversed, it comes in additive series with the D.C. supply
voltage of the relay i.e. the relay gets correct connection accidently for a moment and if
a rotor earth fault is persisting it measures and indicates and this a what had occurred on
all the three occassions. This was got proved on 5.9.80. Necessary modification in the
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scheme was down on 5.9.80 by interchanging the internal wiring leads in the terminal 9
& 10 of the relay, after getting oral approval of the Divisional Engineer/GRT/Thudiyalur.
The machine was running and when the relay was put back in service after modification,
the relay acted immediately. A persisting rotor earth fault was suspected. On earthing t he
rotor through a 5 K resistor, there was measured a leakage current of 0.75 m.amps. So far
it was not detected by the relay and after modification it has detected.
Even with the original wrong connection, the relay should have detected the earth
fault when the machine has come to rest i.e when the rotor voltage has come to zero. This
was not there and it could be explained as below with an example.
Let the D.C. source voltage of the relay be 55 V The setting current required for
the relay element to pickup is 1.1 m.amps.
Therefore I.R. value detected by the relay
55
=

= 50000 Ohms.
1.1 ma

This much of low I.R. value will be detected by the relay if the fault is in any
portion of the rotor when the machine is shutdown.
Let the rotor voltage be 55 Volts.
Assuming that the connections are O.K, and a fault of 100000 Ohms occurs at
point B when the machine is running.
Total voltage available for the
relay element

)
) = 55 + 55 = 110 V

Therefore the leakage current or


the operating current through
the relay element

)
)
)
)

110
= - - - - - - - = 1.1 ma
100000

Hence the relay could operate i.e a fault of 100000 ohms at point B could be
detected by the relay only when the machine is in service and the same fault would go
undetected when the machine is shutdown since the relay current in the case would be
only 55/100000 = 0.55 ma i.e. the aid voltage of the rotor is not available now.
The relay available at Aliyar Power House is of English Electric make type VME.
The same type relay was available at Sholayar Power House 2 also. When the studies
were going on at Aliyar Power House, the scheme at Sholayar Power House.2 was
checked for comparison. It was found that the very same defect was there also. That relay
was also operating for a moment several times when the machine was tripping on faults
since 1971. The relay has not picked up during normal shutdowns as was operating in the
case of Aliyar Power House due to the fact that the de-excitation scheme comes into
operation only during fault trippings of the machine at Sholayar Power House.2 and is
not coming during normal shutdowns. The modification was also carried out at Sholayar
Power House 2 afterwards.

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Such defects with similar type of rotor earth fault relays could be detected only by
test-earthing both ends of the rotor while the machine is running. Any testing by earthing
the rotor when the machine is not in service or by earthing any one end of the rotor when
the machine is in service is not the complete one and will not reveal such defects.
II. ROTOR LIFT PROTECTION AT KADAMPARAI POWER HOUSE:
Top beam

Setting
Electrical Contact
Gap = 1.2 m.m

Rotor bracket beam


During over-speeds or any unbalance problems, the rotors of the generators may
get lifted up in the case of vertical machines. At Kadamparai, rotor lift protection is given
to trip the machine. When the rotor bracket beam lifts up by 1.2 mm (Original setting),
the protection will operate.
The machine was tripping frequently from 11.4.91. It was tripping.
a) before synchronism
b) after synchronism
c) When the load was changed
d) Even when the machine was running smoothly.
After struggling continuously for 8 days, the reason was found to be rather funny.
Whenever the side doors of the generator was opened for some reason or other, the entire
top platform with the beam bent and moved down by 1.2 mm due to downward suction of
air caused by all blower fans.
Prior to 11.4.91, all the blower fans could not be switched on due to problems in
some fans.
III. TRIPPINGS OF GENERATOR 2 at KUNDAH POWER HOUSE. 3 ON
BUCHHOLZ INDICATION:
Generator No. 2 at Kundah Power House 3 tripped on transformer buchholz
indication and Generator O/V relay indication. There was no air or gas in the buchholz
relay and the machine was put back in service. Though the machine was running OK, the
machine was shutdown to probe further for the tripping.
The cable coming from the transformer was found damaged. Thinking that this
could be the reason, the machine was re-serviced. The machine tripped again after one
day with the same relay indication.

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Staff who checked the Buchholz relay by dismantling it said that the diaphragm
was weak and that could be the cause.
But, it was approached from another angle. Why the Generator O/V relay has
acted? Had the Buchholz relay first acted, the machine field breaker would have tripped
immediately along with the main breaker and there could not be any reason for the
machine voltage to rise.
It was decided to test the O/V relay. It was operating even for normal voltage of
11.2 KV on the machine. And, when the O/V relay acted, Buchholz trip alarm came.
There were two culprits:
1) Wrong calibration of O/V relay
2) Wrong connection of annunciator.
IV. PERSONNEL ERROR:
The generator at one Power House was reported one day to have tripped without
any relay indication except master relay operation.
After thorough checking of Generator, transformer, Cables, Protection system
nothing could be found out. Everyone was hesitant to restart the machine but the
concerned operator said the machine can be restarted. Here was the clue:
On further interrogation with the operator, Switch Board Attendant and other
staff, the truth came out. When the operator had observed some oscillations of some
meters, he thought that something was wrong with the machine and operated the
emergency push-button.
V. ANOTHER PERSONNEL ERROR:
Machine. 1 at one Power House was reported to have tripped on Generator
differential relay. When the operator on duty was contacted over phone, he said that when
he wanted to shut down unit.1, he just put his hand on the L.T. breaker switch of
machine. 1 and at that instant the machine had tripped.
Not a deliberate, but an upset boss shouted at the operator over phone :
Are you playing? How can it trip when you just touch it? Do you think that I am a
fool? Do you think that I do not know what happened?
Immediately, the operator surrendered and accepted that he had done a wrong
operation by paralleling the L.T. system of machine 1 and machine.3 after tripping he
main breaker of machine.1.
Shouting helps some times for analysis:

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VI. MALOPERATION OF TRANFORMER DIFFERENTIAL RELAY:


At one Sub-Station, both the transformers were tripping one differential relay
frequently for through faults i.e for known fault on downstream radial feeders. This was
happening for many years and several testes on transformer and relays were in vain.
The ultimate reason was very simple. The differential relay p.u. setting was 15% but
the transformer had tap range upto 17.5% with OLTC. When the tap moves to extreme,
position, the mismatch current was sufficient to operate the relay.
VII. MALOPERATION OF DISTANCE RELAYS:
When the author joined at Saudi Arabia, the first assignment was the analysis of
the frequent tripping of a double circuit feeder outgoing from a Power House for reverse
faults, Er. Arunachalam who has contributed some chapters in this Manual was the
protection incharge. Though the problem could not be identified by them so far, it was
not at all a problem for both of us.
Attacked the first point and found that the C.T. connection were opposite.
The problem was set right without availing a shutdown and also without
succumbing to the threat from the local boss that both of us would be sent to fail if
anything wrong happened.
This particular analysis is so simple that it does not deserve inclusion in this
manual but this is included to show the capability and standard of the protection
engineers in our board on comparison. The problem had caused several black outs to the
system there but was not given due though for several years.
The author wishes to mention on more things purely personal:
In one committee meeting held to finalise the procedures to commission a new
substation, 10 out 12 people were from India and nine out of the ten were from Tamil
Nadu.
VIII. DOWN TO THE EARTH PROBLEM
During a pre-commissioning test in a Sub-Station, a transformer differential relay
type MBCH, a static relay, was not behaving properly.
When the relay was tested by another engineer next day, the relay behaved
correctly.
The reason was:
The first engineer tested the relay keeping it outside the case. That was his usual
method.
The second engineer did by his method by keeping it inside the case.

346

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Later, on enquiry from an engineer from the relay manufacturing company, the
reason given was that the static relay will misbehave if its chassis is not earthed properly.
Proper earthing is provided in- side the case and when the relay is racked out, the earth is
lost.
IX. BLIND APPROACH:
For the known fault on a distribution feeder from Sub-station in Saudi Arabia,
several feeders were tripping simultaneously even in other substations very far away.
How to approach?
One of the authors Colleagues, a distribution engineer, hailing from our board,
came up with suggestion one day. He was telling that one particular feeder which had a
very high pick up setting had never tripped on similar occasion. On that basis, he
suggested to revise the settings of all other feeders.
The suggestion looked very childish. Comparing with the peak load the settings
were more than sufficient in all feeders.
However, the subject was digged further.
A phenomenon called COLD RUSH was explained in an article appeared in the
lectures at PSTI, Bangalore. There was not much explanation but it gave a starting point.
On further searching, it was found that the Cold-Rush is a very big problem
where loads are predominant with Air-conditioners, even in United States. Several black
out have occurred.
What is a Cold Rush?
When a fault occurs at a particular location in a system, the system voltage drops.
When the voltage drops to 70% and below, the A.C. units stall. Even if the voltage is
restored immediately, they take a very high current of 5 times the full load current till the
bleeding of pressure system completes.
This takes more than a minute and hence the load on the healthy feeders suddenly
shoot up to several times the full load, causing the tripping.
The problem was solved temporarily by increasing the P.U. settings as suggested
by our colleague, though by layman approach.
The correct solution for this problem is to provide U/V tripping in all the air
conditioners.

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X. DISTRIBUTION OF EARTH CURRENTS IN HIGH VOLTAGE SYSTEM:


The theory of this subject is dealt in several books including GEC measurements
book and Russian books. Chances are very remote for the protection engineer to go into it
deeply but one of our former engineers, Er. Srinivasaraghavan, Disvisional Engineer
(Generation) has produced a very good article on this subject in MSEB. Journal dated
June 1952. A reproduction of the full article (since not even one word is extrawritten)
will certainly help to guide our engineers.
ELECTRICITY DEPARTMENT JOURNAL
IT IS THE GENERAL practice to earthed the neutral in high voltage transmission
systems, at one voltage transmission systems, at one point only, that is at the sending end.
In case of earth fault in one of the phases, the earth current flows from the fault to the
earthed neutral through earth and actuates the earth fault relay and trips the breakers, thus
isolating the fault. There have been instances where star/star transformers with tertiary
delta have been connected at the end of transmission system, the neutral point on the
H.V. side of these transformers being brought out and connected to earth. Thus the
neutral is earthed also at a point, other than at the sending end. In such cases, earth fault.
Current flows not only from the fault to the sending end neutral but also from the neutral
point of the star/star transformer, though this is beyond the fault. The distribution of the
fault current is as shown in diagram I.

348

CHAPTERXVII

In this diagram G is the generator feeding into a transmission line through a


delta/star step up transformer T1, T2 is a step down transformer connected to the end of
the transmission line, the connections of the windings being star/star with tertiary delta
and the neutral point on the H.V. side being connected to earth.
The effect of the current flowing into the fault not only through the faulty phase,
but also through the healthy phases from beyond the fault on the operation of protective
equipments is interesting. A few examples that have actually occurred some years black
in the Departments E.H.T. net work are mentioned here:
(i) Coimbatore Madurai-Koilpatti 66 KV line (Diagram 2).--The neutral points
of the star connected auto-transformers at Coimbatore were solidly connected to earth: in
addition, the neutral pint of the star/star transformers with tertiary delta at Koilpatti end
was earthed. For earth faults in the lines between Coimbatore and Madurai, the 66 KV
OCB on the outgoing line to Koilpatti a Madurai end used to trip out: the 66 KV fuses on
the transformers at Koilpatti end also used to blow out on certain occasions. The remedy
was either to isolated the neutral at Koilpatti or raise the setting of the earth fault relay on
the Koilpatti line at Madurai end sufficiently high to prevent its operating under such
fault condition. The former course was adopted.
(ii) Coimbatore-Prianaickenpalayam Nellitharai 11 KV line. Mettupalayam
was original fed from Nellitharai S.S. by stopping down the 66 KV voltage to 11 KV
through delta/star transforms, When Nellitharai sub-station was abolished after changing
over to feed from Coimbatore. The 66 KV/11 KV transformers were left at Nellitharai for
some time and this used to be kept energised at 11 KV from Coimbatore end and isolated
on the 66 KV side. Under such conditions, there have been cases when the 11 KV OCB
at Nellitharai tripped for a fault on the line between Coimbatore and Nellitharai (vide
diagram 3).
In both these instances the operation of the OCBs beyond the point of the fault are
evidently due to flow of earth fault current from the neutral of the transformer at the
remote end in these case at Koilpatti and Nellitharai.
XI. PROTECTION ENGINEERS PROBLEMS:
Another good article written by Er.G.A. VISVANANTHAN, in MSEB. Journal
(date not known) is also reproduced since this is also very illustrative:
IT IS NOT very uncommon to have certain unexplainable operation of relays in spite of
very careful selection of relay settings. In many such cases definite faults were found to
exist outside the sphere normally scrutinized by the protection engineer. It is, therefore,
necessary that the engineer should proceed with tan open mind to investigate such
apparent maloperations. The following occurrence is an example:-

349

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350

CHAPTERXVII

EARTH FAULT CURRENT

351

CHAPTERXVII

At Tiruvarur in the Mettur Electricity System, a 11 K.V. feeder is taken for about
a mile from the Government sub-station to the South Madras Electric Supply licensees
power house from where a number of feeders are taken out to the licensees; various
stations. At the Government sub-station the feeder is protected with 2 overload and one
earth leakage relay and at the licensees Power House, the incoming and the outgoing
feeders have also 2 overload and one earth leakage relay; some four years back
complaints were being received from that station that for earth faults on any of the
licensees feeders, the relay at the Government sub-station end only would trip, thus
causing supply failure to the licensees entire area.
The testing of relays and O.C.Bs. in the Government sub-station and gradation of
settings of relays at both the ends of the feeder and those on the out-feeders at the
licensee Power House did not stop this occurrence. Finally it was decide to check up the
connections of and test the relays and O.C. Bs. at the licensees Power House.
On examinations, it was found that on each feeder, the connexions were as shown in
the sketch below with an earth connection at a

This explains the non-operations of the earth leakage relays at he licensees end for
an outside fault, while tripping the relay at the Sub-station end. This earth connexion was
removed and the relays and O.C.Bs. were tested. From then on wards the relays operated
satisfactorily.
G. A. VISVANATHAN.

352

CHAPTER-XVIII
EXPERIENCES IN PROTECTION FIELD
Er.K. Mounagurusamy
CE / P&C
FEEDER TRIPPINGS DUE TO SINGLE PHASE FUSE BLOW-OUT:
(Arti cle by: Sri. S. Raghunatha Rao B.E; D.E(E) & Sri. P. Narayanan B.E; D.E(E)
The blow-out of the H.G. fuse on the H.V. side on one phase of the Delta/Star
Power Transformer at a Sub-station may cause feeder trippings on L.V. side.
There was recently an occurrence of this nature at Poonamallee Sub-station, when
the 33 K.V. H.G. fuse on the yellow phase of single 3-MVA: 33/11 K.V. Transformer in
service at the time below off. Of the four numbers 11 K.V. feeders taking off the station,
three tripped on over-load blue phase while the fourth feeder was standing.
A review has indicated that the fuse blow out should have preceded the feeder
trippings, the blow out being caused by mere over-load over a period of time during the
peak period. (Two strands of 21 SWG timed copper wire were used for the fuses in the
absence of OCB control on the H.V. side.)
The trippings of the 11 KV. Feeders are analysed with the help of vector diagrams
given below : -With the blowing out of the H.V. fuse on the yellow phase the voltage vectors of
phases R and Y on the primary and r and y on the secondary side collapses, Y becoming
Y and r and y moving to r and y. This results in only half the normal voltage being
impressed across the windings R and Y of the primary and a single phase secondary
supply with normal voltage between the blue phase and neutral and half the normal
voltage between the red and yellow phases and neutral. Consequent upon the full
secondary voltage being available only between the blue phase and neutral there should
have been a disproportionately heavier drawal of power on the blue phase. The three 11
K.V. feeders, which were already fairly loaded at the time of occurrence all tripped on
overload blue phase, the heavier drawal on this phase, resulting in load currents
exceeding the overload settings. The fourth feeder, which was also in service at that
time, is understood to have had practically negligible load and the fact of this feeder not
tripping is perhaps explained by the failure of the load on the blue phase of this feeder to
reach the plug setting value, notwithstanding the heavier drawal of power on this phase.
EARTH FAULT RELAY:
There is a big article on this subject by ER.K.S. DORAISWAMY, Divisional
Engineer on this heading published in December 49 of MSEB. Journal. The conclusion
is given below:
The current flow in a residually connected earth fault relay in series with 2 O/L
relays, is only a fraction of the unbalanced current. The true replica of earth fault current
will not be flowing through the E/L relay particularly when it setting is very low.

353

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354

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Number of tests were done in the MRT. Lab at Coimbatore and results and
tabulated. The readings show that with the E/L relay plug setting at 20% the E/L relay
sets only 40% of current in the faulty phase and the balance current flows through the
other phase relays. At 70% P.U. setting, the current sharing is 79%.
BREAKER MECHANISM FAULT:
For a fault on Aliyar Sholayar feeder.2 in 1980, all the 110 KV feeders
emanating from Aliyar tripped at remote ends. The relay had operated in Aliyar-Sholayar
feeder.2 also and the breaker had also tripped.
The system was normalised without too much digging out.
On deeper investigation next day, the relay contacts of Sholayar feeder.2 at ALR
end had burnt and damaged.
Why the contacts should burn?
Suspected the breaker and the timings were measured. Much increased. This was
due to heavy friction in the mechanism.
In cricket, the match is not over till the last ball is bowled, Kapil says. In
protection, the investigation is not over till the cause is traced out.
CONCLUSION:
It should be clearly understood that only maticulous, strict adherence to rigid
testing standards and indepth knowledge of tripping analysis go a long way in ensuring
the correct operation of protective gear and elimination of unwanted operation or minor
mishaps which often prove very costly. In spite of everything, only 80% of the faults are
still cleared correctly by the protection systems as per experts. This is why protection
is an ART where perfection is impossible.
SOME EXPERIENCES IN THE FIELD WORKS:
To start with, item 1 is reproduced from our old MSEB (Now TNEB) Journal
June 1960 an article Operation and Maintenance Problems written by
Er. S. Mohammed Ali, then Divisional Electrical Engineer.
1)

Know what you are doing

In many of our potential transformers, the secondary yellow phase is connected to


earth and the neutral left insulated. A section officer look out the P.T. for routine
overhaul. While reconnecting the wires, he did his job all right but finding the neutral
was without a connection, he attached an earth wire to it as is done on any distribution
transformer. In a few minutes after energising it, the P.T. was found burnt out. This
mistake can be attributed to (i) ignorance and (ii) not marking each terminal while
disconnecting. It is a good practice that while disconnecting wires in any terminal board,
each terminal is clearly tagged.

355

CHAPTERXVIII

It is equally good practice to record the order of parts dismantled when handling
any mechanical equipment. What is dismantled in a few seconds may take hours to refit
if you have lost sight of the order of things.
2)

Earthing of P.T. secondary at Moyar

Originally, the P.T. secondary Yellow phase was connected to earth and the
neutral left insulated when Moyar was commissioned in 1952.
After all the distance relays and synchronising scheme were completely replaced
and modified in the years 1992/93, the Yellow phase earth remained in Yellow phase. As
per the manufacturers of the new distance relays provided, the P.T. neutral needs earthed.
This was corrected in 1997. The implications can be set aside but the overlooked is
overlooked.
3)

P.T. failure at Maravakandy:

When the commissioning tests were done on 14-6-92 at Maravakandy Mini


Hydro Power House (1 x 750 KW) in Nilgiris, at the time of building the machine
voltage to its rated value of 3.3 KV one of the two PTs of V-connected machine PT got
burnt out.
A spare P.T. was erected on 26.2.92 and it also got burnt out when energised.
When the contractor brought replacement P.T. on 20-7-92, he informed that they
have supplied 3.3 KV / 3 110 / 3 P.T. so far instead of 3.3 KV / 110 V PTs with the
name plate of 3.3 KV / 110 V ratings.
Any site done with station L.T. supply will not reveal the defect.
4)

Mixing of P.T. wiring with C.T. wiring:

When the P.T. secondary circuits were meggered on 25-3-1978 in the station L.T.
supply circuit of one of the generators at Sholayar PH I (Commissioned in 1971), the
circuit was giving zero IR value. The reason was found to be the wiring mixing between
P.T. and C.T. circuits. One C.T. was actually feeding the potential coil of an energy
meter. The Polarity connections of the CTs were also opposite.
5)

Mixing of A.C. supply with D.C. circuit at Sandynallah S.S.

When the routine meggering of D.C. circuits was done in 1971 at 110 KV
Sandinallah S.S. in Nilgiris it was found that there was wiring mixing between station LT
supply and station DC supply. If annual meggering was done effectively, this could have
been identified early.
6)

Loss of P.T. supply at Moyar PH

The layout of the 110KV buses at Moyar Power House existed in service in 1997
is given in Figure 12.1.

356

CHAPTERXVIII

Normal operational procedures are:


-

Keep 189 A PT and 189 B PT isolators closed energising the 110 KV feeder
Bus PT and taking PT loads on this P.T.

Keep transformer bus dead

Keep the 189 A and 189 B isolators of the generators which are running and keep
them open in idle generators.

When LC is needed in 110 KV feeder bus P.T. close any one of the isolator of
transformer bus of running generators and avail the relay loads on Transformer
bus P.T. De-energise the feeder bus P.T. by opening both its isolators. Such L.Cs
were being availed monthly for maintenance works.

Let us assume that all the three machines are running. But P.T. is on L.C.
Transformer bus P.T. is fed from machine 1.
Suppose, machine 1 trips on fault. Its OCB trips and machine 1 voltage goes to
zero thereby the bus P.T. looses its supply. All the distance relays will trip on loss of PT
supply, causing black out at Moyar.
The same black out will happen if the operator shuts down machine 1 and opens
the 189 A and 189 B without knowing the implications.
It was told that there were many cases of all feeders tripping simultaneously
before at Moyar end only.
Another problem is the non-existence of a true bus coupler isolator. Any
inadvertent penning of one of the isolators in all the generators and PT, there is the
possibility of separation of the two buses. If Bus PT is Bus A in such an eventuality,
faults on Singera feeder 2 and Gobi feeder 2 will not be sensed by the P.T. in service
leading to possible non operation of protection.
By connecting both bus P.Ts to both buses and introducing a bus coupler 189
AB BC as shown in figure 12.2 solved all the above problems.
Even now 189 A isolators of the generators are useless since the 110 KV lightning
arrestors of transformers are connected through 189 B isolators only.
Action is being taken to remove the copper tubular bus bars of transformer bus
completely.
In the authors opinion, the design of the bus arrangement is non-standard. With
50% of the bus structure materials, a simpler bus with the same facility could have been
designed and erected. Even now, a comprehensive operation with one bus is not possible
since the feeders do not have bus selection facility. Selection arrangement can be made
but very laborious. This can be done if MUSHEP comes.

357

CHAPTERXVIII

358

CHAPTERXVIII

359

CHAPTER-XVIII

7. Emergency operation with one P.T. of less V.A capacity:


When one of the 110 KV P.T. failed at Udumalpet in 1991/1992, a smaller V.A.
capacity was temporarily used till the correct capacity P.T. was arranged. All the
metering circuits were kept switched off to keep the P.T. load under capacity and the S.S.
was operated with calculated risk.
8. Emergency operation with one transformer of less capacity at Aliyar Power House:
When one single phase transformer of 24 MVA capacity failed, a transformer of
12 MVA was connected in the bank with other phase transformers of 24 MVA and the
Aliyar machine was operated for some days till the correct size transformer was arranged.
The load and the generator was limited to the capacity of the small size transformer. The
machine had negative sequence relay and it was kept in service without any problem.
9. Need to test C.T. at rated current:
Due to the non-availability of suitable loading transformer one 800 A.C.T. was
tested O.K. with 400 A and put in service but the ratio did not keep up when the load
went beyond 400 A. This shows that, the CTs should be invariably tested for its rated
current.
At Kadambarai, the generator ring CTs are rated 8000 A. Loading transformer
was available to inject only 1000 A. Hence, 8 turns of current injecting lead were
toroidally would through the C.T. and the tests were done for 8000 A. Such torodial
winding may not be possible in sub-station C.Ts but their maximum rating is 1200 A only
and hence no problem exists.
10. Tripping of generator differential relays at sholayar PH-1
There were frequently maloperation of generator differential relays of both
machines at Sholayar PH 1 for through faults on 110 KV feeders since commissioning in
1971. Suspecting the metrosils connected across the CT secondaries they were removed
on 12-11-79 and thereafter there was not even a single such wrong tripping.
11. Negative sequence relay operation at Kadamparai
Unbalance current (1000 A, 1000 A, 1800 A) was noticed in machine 4 on
29.8.90. The observation was ignored assuming that the transducers would have been
faulty. When the load picked upto 70 MW on 30.8.90, the machine tripped on negative
sequence relay.
Many tests like measurement of D.C. resistance of generator circuit, measurement
of generator impedance primary injection by injecting current just after 230 KV CTs in
the yard in vain.
Primary injection was done after the 230 KV breaker in the yard. CT secondary
currents were less than expected in R and Y phases.
Reached the location. Y Phase limb of the 230 KV ABCB was showing 500 in
closed condition.
Lesson: Dont make assumptions.

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CHAPTERXVIII

12. Tandem rod problem in 110 KV OMCB:


During routine maintenance works on a 110 KV OMCB (BHEL) at 230 KV/110
KV S.S. at Udumalpet, the timing was incorrect in one of the limbs. The reason was the
loosening of bolts in the tandem rod.
13. Problem with core balance CTs in Cables:
In one of the sub-stations where core balance CT was used for earth fault
protection in the outgoing cable of a distribution line, the earth fault relay did not operate
for a known earth fault in the cable.
It was found that the earthing of cable sheath was not made properly.

The earth fault current has gone through the C.T. and also returned through the
C.T. getting cancelled each other in the C.T. Hence no out put from C.T.
Correct sheathing is shown in figure. Current first goes through the cable core,
returns through sheath and again returns through the sheath. The sheath currents through
the CT gets cancelled and the cable core current remains.
14. Protection tripping through Local control of breaker:
In a section of a system with 8 No. grid feeder breakers commissioned under one
contract, a fault occurred in one of the lines.
The protection operated O.K. and isolated the fault. The Operator went to the yard
for inspection and tried to test charge the line through local control from the breaker
mechanism box. All the incoming breakers to that S.S. tripped at the remote ends. The
distance relay in the above faulty line operated but the breaker did not trip.
On investigation, the protection scheme was so designed that the protection
tripping was not effective when the breaker control was on LOCAL.
We have already said that the protection tripping should be effective irrespective
of the position of the local-remote control switch of the breaker.

361

CHAPTERXVIII

15. A Terrific Experience:


While test charging after a fault tripping the operator at 230 KV S.S. Udumalpet
one day observed that there was no current in one phase of a 230 KV feeder going to the
nearby S.S. at Myvadi. The protection did not operate will not operate if it was on open
jumper.
LC was availed and a through inspection of the line was done by lines wing and
everything was O.K.
Test charged the feeder. The current was still missing.
Shut down the feeder. 400 Volts 3 phase voltage was injected from 230 KV
Udumalpet S.S. and bulbs connected at Myvadi a end of the line were burning O.K. in all
the 3 phase.
The protection wing was again moving in the yard for further probing. Suddenly,
one person shouted and alerted others to sit down. A vertical live 230 KV jumper from
the bus going to the isolator got unclamped at the top end and was hanging down just at
the safe clearance over the head of the inspecting persons.
16. Operation during L.C.
This happened when Kundah PH I was a dead end. A double circuit 110 KV line
was there between Kundah PH-2 and Kundah PH-1. All the machines were shut down at
Kundah PH-1.
A shutdown was needed in line No. 1 shut down was issued and LC was availed
in line 1 at both ends. Line work was taken up and LC returned and everything
normalised.
But the SBA at Kundah PH I found that the 110 KV bus RVM was not recording
for so many hours. On deeper investigation, it was found that the operator had tripped
line 2 at Kundah PH-1 while issuing the L.C.
How much negligence?
Clear instructions over the step by step operations before issuing a line clear on
equipment should be available in every SS/PH at the operators table.
Sub-log book should be essentially maintained. The author has heard a story of
attending repair works in the cooler of a healthy generator when the cooler was defective
in other unit.

362

CHAPTERXVIII

17. Primary injection and Bus bard stability problem:

The above figure shows the portion of a 33 KV GIS system. When the B/B CT
was tested for ratio by inserting the current cable through the available external hole
marked as C, the CT behaved accurately.
When it was tried to do the primary injection by injection current in between A
and B through conductor, the CT behaved erratically.
THE PROBLEM could not be solved for many months inspite of the visits of
expert from the country where it was manufactured.
The foreign company finally brought a flux Camera which can take photo of
magnetic flux. It was seen that there was flux linking between points D and E through F.
This was found to be due to missing of an insulating washer provided in one of the fixing
bolts of flange F. Actually, there should not have been electric conductivity between G
and H but the defect was the existence of continuity due to the missing washer as was
concluded by the company engineers.
18. Real life is like that:
I. After the tripping of a generator, the hydraulic operator in a power house was
shouting to the electrical operator:

363

CHAPTERXVIII

Hey the machine has tripped but the shaft is still rotating
II. No rains No problem:Load dispatch engineer asked to put one Generator on bars immediately.
Operator replied that the rotor is outside.
Load dispatcher advised that since there were no rains, the rotor could well be
outside and asked to put the machine first.
III. Deserving appreciation:
The rewinding works of an induction motor was going on. One big engineer
commented to the electrician, what you are doing is wrong. There should be only 4 leads
coming out. How come there are six leads?
Finally, after successful completion of the work, the big engineer recommended
himself for appreciation and got it too.
IV. Yet to design:
This is in sixties. A proposal was sent through the hierarchical ladder to the
Canadian Company who erected Kundah system to provide a transformer in a circuit to
solve a problem. The company replied:
We are yet to design a D.C. transformer.
V. More careful:
One engineer was more careful that he wanted to get approval from the foreign
company who had supplied the 250 V.D.C. generator equipment as to whether varnishing
could be done to improve its I.R. value.
VI. How is it?
Boss: Which fool gave you the degree?
Subordinate engineer: The same fool who gave it to you.
VII. Betting by the author:
Primary injection was going on in the Bus bar protection C.T. in a sub-station.
One young engineer was doing the test. The author was witnessing. The testing guy
found it very difficult to drive current in the loading transformer when he tested one
particular phase. He said to his assistant to check whether any secondary of the C.T. was
open.
The author intercepted and asked? How is it? You are sending current only
through the C.T. primary and a big bus bar jumper of about 5 meters. How can the C.T.
open circuit can impede the current in the loading transformer?
The testing guy was very sure. The author was very adamant. The author offered
to make a bet and the testing guy immediately accepted. Supplying Pepsi to all present
was the bet.
The author had to supply Pepsi to all finally.
Experience always speaks.

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CHAPTERXVIII

VIII. Protection Mind:


One engineer saw a chicken in his dream inside the Kadamparai PH. (How can a
chicken get into the under ground Power House?) He was telling about this dream to his
nearest people.
Within two or three days, there was the fire accident at Kadamparai. It was suggested by somebody in presence of the then Chairman to send down through a basket
pulley rope system a chicken through the vertical tunnel upto the Power House location
to ensure that fire had extinguished completely. These are also protection thinking and
dreaming.
IX. Getting shouted gives un-forgetting pleasure:
The top brass from Madras who is famous for shouting is in site to witness the
scheduled commissioning of a big equipment. One small protection engineer could not be
available for the commissioning. He gets the nod from his local boss to be away on the
day of commissioning on an unavoidable family function. The news reached the shouting
boss. He shouts, what? What do you mean? nothing doing. No commissioning
tomorrow. We will wait for you. Go and finish your job and join us. This shouting is
unforgettable. Only the protection engineer can get so much of importance every one of
you know.
X. Masters:
The author has innumerable number of masters in this world. Leaking rain water
was dripping over a villager silting in a bus. He was not at all caring. He neither bothered
nor enjoyed. He was as calm as a baby in its mothers arms. He is also a master of the
author. The author thinks of him whenever he faces such a situation now and then and
asks himself how the villager in bus would have acted under this circumstance?
Like wise many masters. The author is blessed always with very good bosses
anywhere in the world.
Most of the bosses like Er. K. Narayanasamy, Er. B. Ranganathan and Er. K.R.
Syed Abdul Subhan are his masters in many ways. When the author makes an analysis of
tripping or when he drafts a letter or when he faces a labour union, he asks himself, How
Engineer will analyse this tripping? The author gets some more depth. His masters
has assessed the author as GIVES IMMEDIATE SOLUTIONS IN THE FIELD and
CAPABLE OF TACKLING ANY PROTECTION PROBLEM
- Million dollars boosts indeed.
The author has started thinking confidently after getting these assessments that he
could give himself a solution to any problem in life also.
The 26 year old protection engineer of electrical equipment has understood now
the way to protect himself from any hazards in life and his own I.R. value is > --------.

365

CHAPTER-XIX
UNDER GROUND CABLES
Er. M. Arunachalam
EE / GRT
A.3.1. 11KV & 33KV POWER
CABLES.
A.3.2. 110KV OIL FILLED
POWER CABLES.
A.3.3. 110KV XLPE POWER
CABLES.
A.3.4. 230 KV XLPE POWER
CABLES.
A.3.5. PILOT CABLES.
A.3.6. LV CABLES.

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CHAPTERXIX

A.3.1. 11KV & 33KV POWER CABLES.


Test No.

Test Description

1.

Sheath Insulation &


continuity Test.

2.

Insulation test for


cable core.

3.
4.

Phasing test
H.V. test

Standard Ref.

Remarks

IEC-52
ISI-

IR value for
sheath>100 meg
ohms, And for cable
conductor>500 meg
ohms

Standard Ref.

Remarks

A.3.2. 110 KV OIL FILLED POWER CABLES.


Test No.

Test Description

1.

Oil flow test

2.

Impregnation Test

3.

Conductor
Resistance test.
Capacitance test

4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.

IEC-141-1
ISI-

Sheath insulation by
5KV megger.
Cross bonding test.
Tightness of links in
Junction boxes
Test for SVL by
2.5KV Megger.
High Voltage Test.

367

IR value more
Than 100 Meg
ohms.

Test at 245KV
DC for 15
Minutes.

CHAPTERXIX

A.3.3. 110 KV XLPE POWER CABLES


Test No.

Test Description

Standard Ref.

1.
2.

Insulation Test
Conductor
Resistance,
capacitance &
inductance test.
Sheath insulation
Test.
Cross bonding Test.
Link box tightness
check

IEC-840
ISI-

3.
4.
5.
6.

SVL test by 2.5 KV


megger

7.

H. V. Test

Remarks

Test at 185 KV
DC for 15
minutes.

A.3.4 230 KV XLPE POWER CABLES.


Test No.

Test Description

Standard Ref.

1.

Insulation Test

2.

Conductor
Resistance,
capacitance &
inductance test.

3.

Sheath insulation
Test.

4.

Cross bonding Test.

5.

Link box tightness


check

6.

SVL test by 2.5 KV


megger

7.

H.V.Test

Remarks

IEC 840
ISI-

Test at 385 KV DC
for 15 minutes.

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CHAPTERXIX

A.3.5. PILOT CABLES.


Test No.

Test Description

1.

Insulation Test by
5KV Megger

Loop Resistance
Test.

3.

Cross talk test &


coupling Test.

4.

Noise level
measurement

Standard Ref.

Remarks
IR value>100 Meg
ohm

A.3.6. LV CABLES.
Test No.

Test Description

Standard Ref.

1.

Phasing &
continuity check.

IEC- 227-2

2.

2KV insulation test.

3.

Visual inspection,
size & ratings
confirmation.

Remarks
IR value More than
100 Meg Ohms.

Note: Annual DL H.V. test on cables in generalings station should be dispensed with and
the DL H.V test should be conducted after ratification of fault conditions.

369

CHAPTER-XX
BATTERIES
Checking of Value Regulated Lead-Acid Batteries in conjunction with the
commissioning of plant.
1. GENERAL
This is a general guideline for bringing Valve regulated lead acid (VRLA)
batteries into service
Test Record 1 WAT 910037-006 is to be used during testing.
For commissioning of freely vented lead acid batteries, please see provision 1
WAT 910034-007.
The installation, commissioning and maintenance instructions given by each
manufacturer shall always be complied and should be read at the same times
as this guideline.
2. RFERENCE DOCUMENTS.
-

Installation drawings and instructions from the manufacture provided


together with the battery, regarding storage, erection, initial charging etc.
Commissioning instruction for rectifies 1 WAT 910034-005
Manufacturers manual for rectifier.

3. TEST EQUIPMENT
Multimeter class 1.5
Test leads
Voltmeter for DC class 0.2 (Digital multimeter)
Thermometer
Rubber gloves, goggles, eyecup, cold water and saline solution in squeeze
bottle for eye wash.
4. SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
4.1

Hydrogen gas.
When lead acid batteries are being charged, oxihydrogen gas is liberated. To
minimise the risk of explosion, the following precautions must be taken:
-

Ensure that the space around the battery is adequately ventilated. Ensure
ventilation according to local standards. Use Swedish standard SS 408 01
10 if no local standard is available.

Smoking is to be prohibited
Prior to touching the call caps, remove any static electricity by placing
the hand on the edge or the side of the respective battery cases.

370

CHAPTERXX

4.2

Chemical stuff.
The valves of the battery must not be blocked or opened. Filling of cells is
not possible, since the electrolyte is immobilized and the battery already
filled when delivered.
Severe damages on the battery container might cause acid to leak. Therefore
the same safety precautions as the vented batteries are necessary:
-

Use protective goggles.

Washing facilities are to be available close to the battery.

Electrolyte on the skin, must be washed with plenty of soap and water.

If electrolyte gets into the eyes wash with plenty of clean water and get
immediate medical attention.

Lead compounds are poisonous. Always wash your hands after working with
the battery.
4.3

Electrical current
Valve regulated batteries are always electrically alive and the risk of short
circuit (and electrical sparks, see 4.1) must be prevented.

4.4

Use insulated tools only to make connections to the battery, taking care
not to over tighten beyond manufacturers recommended torque value.

Check the circuit and make sure it is safe before making a connection to
the battery.

Before working on the battery, always remove personal metal effects,


such as rings, watches, bracelets, necklaces etc.

Temperature.
For lead acid batteries in general and especially for valve regulated batteries
it is of utmost important to keep the temperature at a steady level of 20 C
(See fig. 1).

5. PREREQUISITES.
Chargers which are connected to the battery shall already been commissioned
previously.
6. VALVE REGULATED BATTERIES.GENERAL INFORMATION
6.1

Description of basic technology


Over the past years VRLA batteries have been introduced as an alternative to
the conventional lead acid and nickel cadmium batteries. This new type is
advertised as sealed or maintenance free. The correct designation is
valve regulated according to IEC 896-2 (draft).
In a VRLA cell the net water consumption is strongly reduced by means of a
recombination of the oxygen at the negative electrode and by preventing the
hydrogen from being generated.
371

CHAPTERXX

However, the oxygen recombination does not work at 100% efficiency.


Some oxygen escapes from the electrochemical system. Furthermore,
evolution of hydrogen cannot be fully suppressed. This means that water loss
will take place already during normal conditions and particularly during
charging with high currents and high temperatures. These water losses are
not possible to replace.
The valve, which must open at high pressure, is a very important detail. If
the valve sticks open (or is removed for any reason), this will lead to oxygen
ingress with resultant discharge of the cells and ultimately total dry out. If it
sticks, internal pressure build-up will create a severe bulge of the cell
container leading to eventual fracture. In the extreme case it may rise to an
explosion.
NOTE:
Valve regulated batteries are not sealed.
6.2

Two VRLA designs


The VRLA batteries are divided into two main groups depending on the way
the gas recombination is achieved:
-

Absorbed (starved) electrolyte


Gelled electrolyte

Absorbed electrolyte cells are built up of pasted plates with microporous


glass fibre as separators.
The electrolyte is absorbed by the pores of the electrode active materials and
the separator. The separator is not saturated with acid and the acid free pores
are used for transferring the oxygen from the positive to the negative
electrode.
The gel electrolyte is immobilised by the addition of silicon dioxide to the
sulfuric acid. The oxygen is transported through micro cracks in the gel.
The plates can be designed as for FVLA with pasted or tubular plates. The
separators are normally made of microporous plastic.
6.3

Float charge
Due to the limited acid volume and consequently the need for high acid
density in the absorbed cells (1.29-1.30 kg/I), the float charge voltage will be
somewhat higher than for other lead acid batteries. For this reason the
absorbed VRLA cells must be charged with a higher float charge level of
2.27 V/cell with given tolerances.
The gelled type has the same density as the FVLA type i.e. 1.24-1.26 kg/I
and accordingly has the same float charge level of 2.23-2.25 V/cell.

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CHAPTERXX

This discrepancy must of course be considered when calculating the number


of cells so that the upper limit is not exceeded.

Density
Float charge

Absorbed
1.29-1.30 kg/I
2.27 V/c

Gelled
1.24 kg/I
2.23 V/c

The manufacturer must give detailed information of recommended float


charge voltage.
6.4

High rate charge (boost charge, equalizing charge)


In order to avoid gas development and risk of dry-out, all manufacturers
advise limitations for voltage, current and time when recharging VRLA cells.
It is therefore of importance to follow the instructions from the manufacturer.

6.5

Ambient temperature
The higher ambient temperature, the higher float current at a given voltage
level.
High float current causes high internal temperature and escape of gas, which
will dramatically decrease the lifetime of the battery.
This is valid for all lead acid batteries. See fig 1.
Life Time

100 %
Fig 1.
50 %

10

20

30

40
Temperature

Due to the exothermal oxygen recombination reactions, VRLA batteries


develop much more heat inside the cell than the conventional cells.
Furthermore, as there is no free acid, the heat dissipation is not supported by
convection.
Under extreme conditions, the battery can be subject to successive increase
of float current and temperature until it is destroyed. This phenomenon is
called thermal runaway.

373

CHAPTERXX

A temperature compensated charger can be installed in the DC system


This charger can decrease the float charge level at high temperatures and
therefore marginally improve the situation but not restore the lifetime due to
high temperatures. See typical values fig 2.
Plant voltage Per Coil (V)
240
235

Fig 2.

230
225
220

10

15

20

25

30

35

40

Temperature C
In general, the gelled batteries have a larger electrolyte volume than the
absorbed type and are more resistant to a drying out. This is a general
guideline and differences between different makes may change this picture.
6.6

Ripple
There is no difference between valve regulated batteries and conventional
lead acid batteries regarding the acceptance of ripple current. The ripple
current must be limited to a value recommended by the manufacturer
(Normally 5A/100Ah). Otherwise the corrosion on the positive grid and the
internal temperature will increase.

6.7

Discharge performance
The absorbed type has a very good high rated discharge current performance.
Therefore this technology is highly suitable for UPS systems, diesel engine
starting and DC systems where large current peaks are required after a long
discharge period.
For the gel type, the peak loads might increase the nominal battery capacity
and consequently the cost. Gel-technology is worth its price for applications
with low discharge current without extreme peak loads at the end of the
discharge period.

374

CHAPTERXX

6.8

Classification and Lifetime


EUROBAT has classified the VRLA batteries into 4 groups with particular
reference to Performance
- Safety
- Design Life
*10 + year High integrity
Telecommunications, nuclear and conventional power plants, oil and
petrochemical industry and other applications where the highest security is
required.
*10 year High performance
In general terms, this group of batteries have comparable design life
performance as in the 10 + year High integrity group. However,
requirements for performance and safety are not as severe. The requirement
for capacity is 95% at first cycle and 100 % at 10:th cycle.
*5-8 year General purpose.
Safety requirements and design life related tests are not as stringent.
*3-5 year Standard commercial.
This group of batteries are at the consumers end and are popular in small
emergency equipment.
There are some gelled batteries on the market today which cannot reach
100% after first cycle and shall be classed in the 10 year Higher
performance group.
The difference in lifetime expectancy between the two VRLA types at 20
degrees C is;
* Absorbed technology appr. 10 years for the 10+ and 10 year groups.
* Gel technology appr. 12-15 years

7. RECEIVING, UNPACKING AND STORAGE.


Inspect the battery upon arrival and check that the goods delivered are
complete and that all cells/blocks are undamaged.
Under no circumstances shall the cell/blocks be lifted by their terminal
pillars.
There is no need to remove the terminal covers before the erection of the
battery set.
If the battery cannot be installed immediately, store all parts in a clean and
dry room.

375

CHAPTERXX

It is advisable to check the voltage for each cell/block after the unpacking.
This can be done without removing the terminal cover (for most of the
makes). The recommended lowest voltage is given by the manufacturer.
(appr. 2-10 V/cell)
In order to ensure that the batteries can be charged easily after a long period
of storage, it is recommended that the batteries should not be stored more
than the following periods without recharging (typical values);
6 months at 20 C
4 months at 30 C
2 months at 40 C
For this reason it is very important that the design office is informed about
any delays at an early stage so that the delivery of the batteries can be
coordinated with the start of commissioning.
8. INSTALLATION
The installation section of the battery manual and the installation drawing for
the special project must be complied completely.
Care for space between cells/blocks and for good ventilation in the room
where the battery is accommodated.
9 . COMMISSIONING CHARGE
NOTE! It is very important to follow the instruction from each manufacturer
regarding;
-

applied float voltage and high rate voltage (if recommended).


current limit
time period for charging
temperature when charging

Some manufactures make a distinction between initial charge for


immediately load connection and initial charge for site acceptance test.
Generally, the absorbed typed are more sensitive to high voltages and large
current. For this reason batteries require most time to be initially charged,
especially when the battery is subject for site acceptance test (up to 6days
charging for some manufactures).
The voltage applied to the battery set is calculated according to: next
recommended charging voltage (n = number of cells)
If a temperature compensated charger is installed, the float charge voltage
shall be adjusted according to recommendation from the manufacture or
according to fig 2. In this case the alarm level for under/over float charge
voltage is set to 2-3% of the set float value.

376

CHAPTERXX

The charging current (1 charging) is expressed as % of Ah capacity 0.1 x


C10 means that the current shall be limited to a value of 10 % of the nominal
10 h capacity.
For a 100 Ah nominal capacity it is 10 A. Before initial charge it might be
necessary to derate the current limit of the charger (1 set) so that the current
is limited to the recommended value; I set = I charging
When the station load is connected it is advisable to set the current limit in
accordance with actual configuration in the power station (substation) and the
recommended value given from the design office; I set = I charging + I load
10 . SITE ACCEPTANCE TEST (CAPACITY TEST)
The site acceptance test must be carried out in the period between completion
of the commissioning charge and the introduction of an operating load on the
system.
The capacity test is normally performed during 5 hours, 10 hours or the
battery duty period. The following instruction will apply to the 5 and 10
hours discharge.
-

Read the ambient temperature.

The charger shall be connected to the battery until the start of the
discharge. It is recommended to check the voltage for each cell/bloc after
completion of the initial charge but before disconnection the charger and
start of the testing.

If nothing else is specified the discharge current is given in the


manufactures catalogue at an end voltage of 1.80 volt/cell for 5 hour or 10
hours discharge.

The battery load until shall be connected to suitable terminals where the
station loads and rectifier are disconnected and where the battery load unit
connections are protected by fuses/circuit breakers. See fig 3

377

If possible, makes a rough current setting on the battery load unit before is
connection to the battery.

Connect the battery load unit and make a final adjustment of the current. It
is very important to that the discharge current is supervised and kept at an
accurate level of +/-1 % throughout the test

Make a note in the test sheet at what time the test is started and at what
time the test is finished.

The battery voltage is to be measured 6 times during the discharge period.

Battery terminal voltage is to be measured the first 3 times and individual


cell voltage is to be measured the last 3 times (at 80-90-100% discharge).

If the battery terminal voltage is measured at the load bank, the voltage drop
in the cables between battery and load bank has to be considered
-

Voltage drop between the battery terminals and the cell connections shall
be checked during an early stage of the discharge. All cells are checked
and the voltage must not exceed 5 mV. Connections where the voltage
drop is larger must be investigated and carefully adjusted.

Successively as the test is performed, enter the test results in Test Record 1
WAT 910037 006.

378

CHAPTERXX

The acceptance test must be supervised to prevent deep discharges and the
recharging must be commenced immediately after the discharge with a
voltage, current and time equal to the method for putting the batteries into
service without test.
1. ACCEPTANCE CRITERIA FOR COMMISSIONING TEST
Two criteria must be regarded for acceptance of the site test.
-cell/bloc voltage deviation
-capacity
The cell/bloc voltage deviation has a very wide range for new VR batteries. It
is recommended to check the voltage for each cell/bloc after completion of the
initial charge but before disconnecting the charger and start of the testing. In
this stage the deviation can reach a level of +0,2/-0,1 V/cell for gelled cells
but less for absorbed type.
At the end of a site test the cell/bloc voltage deviation shall not vary more
than +/-0.06 V from mean value and the battery voltage shall not be bellow
the predestinated end voltage (normally the number of cells multiplies with
1.80 V/cell).
The capacity test shall be interrupted when the battery voltage has reached the
end voltage.
If the happens for instance at the 4,5 hour reading for a 5 hour test, it indicates
that the capacity is only 90 % (4,5/5).
For adsorbed type in*10+ year High integrity group not less than 100 %
capacity is accepted.
For gelled type which is in the 10 year High performance group 95 %
capacity at first cycle is accepted.
Temperature correction for other temperatures than 20 C must be done as
follows:
K(t) = capacity at temperature t = time for discharge x discharge current.
K(20) = capacity at 20 = K(t) / f
f = correction factor given by the manufacture. If nothing is specified this
factor can be calculated as; 1+0,006 x (t-20)

379

CHAPTERXX

ABB Substations

Inspection and test record

Record form No:


1 WAT 910037-006

Description:
Batteries valv requlated lead acid
With capacity test

Order No.:
Drawing No.:

Customer.:
Erection site.:

Customer ref.:
Ref.:

Sheet
1
Cont
2

A. neral Data and Information


Battery type.Manufacturer:.
Nominal Voltage:Nubmer of cells:.
Temperature compensated charger ___
B. Initial charging:
Charging coltage: V
Charging current. (current limit of the charger):. A
Charging time:.h
C. Cell voltage after initial charging:
Float voltage:.V
Time between initial charging and capacity test.h
Ambient temperature:. C
Cell.
No.

Volt
age

Cell
No.

Volt
age

Cell.
No.

Volt
age

Cell.
No.

Volt
age

Cell.
No.

Volt
age

Cell.
No.

21

41

61

81

101

2
3

22
23

42
43

62
63

82
83

102
103

24

44

64

84

104

25

45

65

85

105

26

46

66

86

106

27

47

67

87

107

28

48

68

88

108

29

49

69

89

109

10
11

30
31

50
51

70
71

90
91

110
111

12

32

52

72

92

112

13
14

33
34

53
54

73
74

93
94

113
114

15

35

55

75

95

115

16

36

56

76

96

116

17

37

57

77

97

117

18

38

58

78

98

118

19

39

59

79

99

119

40

60

80

20
Test carried out
Date. Sign.:

380

100
Customers approval
Date. Sign.:

120

Volt
age

CHAPTERXX

ABB Substations

Inspection and test record

Description
Batteries vlav regulated lead acid
With capacity test

Drawing No.:

Customer.:

Customers ref.:

Erection sale.:

Ref.:

Record form No:


1 WAT 910037-006

Order No.:

Sheet.:
2
Cont.:
3

D. Capacity test.
5 hours test:___
10 hours test:___
..........hours test:____
End voltage/cell 1.80 V/cell_____
Other end voltage/cell.......V/cell
Time between initial charging and capacity test.......h
Ambient temperature............................... C
Discharge current according to datasheet.........................A
Calculated capacity (discharge current x time)........................Ah
The discharge was started at...............stopped at..................
Individual cell voltage
5 hours test
Time
(h)

10 hours test
V

Time
(h)

1.00

1.00

2.30

5.00

.hours

Time hours
(h)

4.00 (80%)

Sh.4

8.00 (80%)

Sh.4

(80%)

Sh.4

4.30(90%)

Sh.5

9.00 (90%)

Sh.5

(90%)

Sh.5

Compl.
test (100%)

Sh.6

Compl.
test (100%)

Sh.6

Compl.
test (100%)

Sh.6

NOTE:
Individual cell voltages are noted on sheet 4-6. One sheet for each voltmeter reading at
80-90-100% discharge
At 0 hours the load bank is not yet connected and the voltage indicates the open circuit
voltage of each cell.
The capacity test is to be completed when the battery voltage has reached the end
voltage.
Contact resistance between terminals and cell connectors checked (after 1 hour):______
Test carried out
Customers approval
Date. Sign.:

Date. Sign.:

381

CHAPTERXX

ABB Substations

Inspection and test record

Description
Batteries vlav regulated lead acid
With capacity test

Order No.:
Drawing No.:

Customer.:

Customers ref.:

Erection sale.:

Ref.:

Record form No:


1 WAT 910037-006
Sheet.:
3
Cont.:
4

E. Evaluation of results after completed test.


1.Cellvoltage deviation after initial charge with the rectifier still connected at float
charge mode (section C. page 1)
Mean value...........V/cell
Max. value............V/cell
Min. value.............V/cell
2. Cellvoltage deviation after completed test (section D, page 2)
Mean value...........V/cell
Max. value............V/cell
Min. value.............V/cell
3. Extracted capacity.
Extracted capacity after compleated test = discharge current x discharge time:
................................................................................................Ah.
Calculated capacity according to section A:...............Ah.
Correction with other temperatures than 20C; Capacity (20C) = Capacity
(tC)/correction factor:
................................................................................................Ah.
F. Recharging after completed test
Charging voltage...................V
Charging current....................A
Charging time.....................h
References to used instruments:
Type:__________________________Identity:_________________________________
Type:__________________________Identity:_________________________________
Type:__________________________Identity:_________________________________
Type:__________________________Identity:_________________________________
Test carried out

Customers approval

Date, Sign.:

Date, Sign.:

382

CHAPTERXX

ABB Substations

Inspection and test record

Description
Batteries vlav regulated lead acid

Record form No:


1 WAT 910037-006
Sheet.:
4
Cont.:
5

Order No.:
Drawing No.:

With capacity test


Customer.:

Customers ref.:

Erection sale.:

Ref.:

Cell voltage after 80% discharge

Cell
No.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20

Volta
ge

Test carried out


Date, Sign.:

Cell
No.
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
37
38
39
40

Volta
ge

Cell
No.
41
42
43
44
45
46
47
48
49
50
51
52
53
54
55
56
57
58
59
60

Volta
ge

Cell
No.
61
62
63
64
65
66
67
68
69
70
71
72
73
74
75
76
77
78
79
80

Volta
ge

Cell
No.
81
82
83
84
85
86
87
88
89
90
91
92
93
94
95
96
97
98
99
100

Customers approval
Date, Sign.:

383

Volta
ge

Cell
No.
101
102
103
104
105
106
107
108
109
110
111
112
113
114
115
116
117
118
119
120

Volta
ge

CHAPTERXX

ABB Substations

Inspection and test record

Record form No:


1 WAT 910037-006
Sheet.:
5
Cont.:
6

Description
Batteries vlav regulated lead acid
With capacity test

Order No.:
Drawing No.:

Customer.:

Customers ref.:
Ref.:

Erection sale.:

Cell voltage after 90% discharge

Cell
No.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20

Volta
ge

Cell
No.
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
37
38
39
40

Volta
ge

Cell
No.
41
42
43
44
45
46
47
48
49
50
51
52
53
54
55
56
57
58
59
60

Volta
ge

Cell
No.
61
62
63
64
65
66
67
68
69
70
71
72
73
74
75
76
77
78
79
80

Volta
ge

Cell
No.
81
82
83
84
85
86
87
88
89
90
91
92
93
94
95
96
97
98
99
100

Test carried out

Customers approval

Date, Sign.:

Date, Sign.:

384

Volta
ge

Cell
No.
101
102
103
104
105
106
107
108
109
110
111
112
113
114
115
116
117
118
119
120

Volta
ge

CHAPTERXX

ABB Substations

Inspection and test record

Record form No:


1 WAT 910037-006
Sheet.:
5
Cont.:
6

Description
Batteries vlav regulated lead acid
With capacity test

Order No.:
Drawing No.:

Customer.:

Customers ref.:

Erection sale.:

Ref.:

Cell voltage after 100% discharge

Cell
No.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20

Volta
ge

Cell
No.
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
37
38
39
40

Volta
ge

Cell
No.
41
42
43
44
45
46
47
48
49
50
51
52
53
54
55
56
57
58
59
60

Volta
ge

Cell
No.
61
62
63
64
65
66
67
68
69
70
71
72
73
74
75
76
77
78
79
80

Volta
ge

Cell
No.
81
82
83
84
85
86
87
88
89
90
91
92
93
94
95
96
97
98
99
100

Test carried out

Customers approval

Date, Sign.:

Date, Sign.:

385

Volta
ge

Cell
No.
101
102
103
104
105
106
107
108
109
110
111
112
113
114
115
116
117
118
119
120

Volta
ge

Contributors of this Manual


1. Er. A.S. Kandasamy M.E.,MI.EEE(USA) CE/Transmission
Contributed a lot of papers on Distribution protection and Metering system.

2. Er. K. Mounagurusamy. B.E.,


Chief Engineer/Protection & communication. The experiences in the generation and
transmission network with contributions to the development of the system.
3. Er. M. Varadharajan, B.E,
Executive Engineer/O&M /Orathanadu
Experiences in generating station protections and distribution protection contributed to
the value information.
4. Er. P. Ponnambalam, B.Sc., B.E.,
Executive Engineer/Sub-Station Erection / Chennai
The experience in the field of erection and testing of equipment contributed to the
manual.
5. Er. M. Arunachalam, M.E.,
Executive Engineer/Grid relay Test/Chennai
The experiences on transmission protection are shared much on this manual.
The contributions are worthy in nature and confined to the transmissions.

386

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