Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Manual On Pre-Commissioning and Periodical Testing of Ehv Equipment PDF
Manual On Pre-Commissioning and Periodical Testing of Ehv Equipment PDF
COMPANY LIMITED
MADHYA PRADESH
POWER TRANSMISSION
MANUAL ON
COMPANY LIMTED
PRE-COMMISSIONING
AND PERIODICAL
TESTING OF EHV
EQUIPMENT
MANUAL ON
PRECOMMISSIONING
NOV’17
AND PERIODICAL
TESTING OF EHV
EQUIPEMNTS
Nov-17
1
A committee consisting of the
following officers was constituted
Vide letter No.
04-04/3158 dated 25/9/2017
2
CONTENTS
3
CHPATER-1
POWER TRANSFOREMR
TESTING
Er. P.K. Gargava Er. Pranay Joshi
INTRODUCTION
The Power Transformers are very important and costliest equipments in any Power
Grid network including the Grid Network of M.P. Power Transmission Co Ltd(MPPTCL).
They are basically installed in Grid Sub stations. The Grid network of MPPTCL consists of
400 KV and 220 KV and 132 KV Substations having transmission lines and the Power
Transformers. The Power Transformers in Grid S/S are used for transforming voltages from
one level to another without changing the supply frequency (Definition of the Transformer).
In MPPTCL the Voltages are transformed from 400 KV to 220 KV, 220 KV to 132 KV, 220
KV TO 33 KV and from 132 KV to 33 KV.
Classification of Transformer
In MPPTCL Power Transformer are classified by voltage class as:
400 KV Class
400/220/33 KV 315 MVA Auto Transformer having three windings HV(440kv),
IV(220kv) & LV(33kv)
220 KV Class
220/132/33 KV 125 & 160 MVA Auto Transformer having three windings HV (220kv),
IV (132kv) & LV (33kv).
200/33/33 KV 100 MVA Three winding Transformer HV (220kv), LV1 (33kv) & LV2
(33kv).
132 KV Class
132/33 KV 20, 40, 50 & 63 MVA Two winding Transformer having HV (132kv) & LV
(33kv).
These auto transformers have their main winding star connected with the neutral solidly
earthed. They also have a 33/11 KV delta connected tertiary winding with MVA Capacity
1/3rd of that Transformer rating to connect phase compensating devices like shunt
capacitors, static var compensators etc. When not needed, the tertiary is kept idle.
TESTING OF TRANSFORMER
The following Tests are specified in IS:2026 (Part I), specification for power
transformers, Part-I, General:
4
TYPE TESTS:
Measurement of winding resistance.
Measurement of Voltage ratio and check of Voltage Vector relationship.
Measurement of impedance voltage/short circuit impedance (principal tapping) and
load loss.
Measurement of no load loss and current.
Measurement of insulation resistance.
Dielectric tests
Temperature rise test
Tests on ON-LOAD tap-changers, where appropriate
ROUTINE TESTS
Measurement of Winding resistance.
Measurement of Voltage ratio and check of voltage vector relationship.
Measurement of impedance voltage/short circuit impedance (Principal tapping and
load loss)
Measurement of no-load loss and current.
Measurement of insulation resistance.
Dielectric tests
Tests on ON-LOAD tap-changers, where appropriate.
SPECIAL TESTS:
Dielectric tests
Measurement of Zero-sequence impedance of three phase transformers.
Short circuit test.
Measurement of acoustic noise level.
Measurement of harmonics of the no-load current.
Measurement of the power taken by the fans and oil pumps.
5
Pre-commissioning testing of Transformer:
After arrival of Transformer at site , thorough inspection shall be done immediately on arrival
for any damages to X-mers in transport.
a. Transformer received filled with oil, oil level in main tank is to be verified by
comparing the oil level shown by manufacturer before dispatch in their
document. A sample of oil shall be taken from bottom of the tank and send
the oil sample for oil parameter testing, test result found, should be
comparable as per IS 1866 and factory test result.
b. If X-mer received is filled with nitrogen, the nitrogen gas pressure reading
should be taken and ensure that gas pressure is positive. Dew point of N2
gas has also to be recorded with ambient temp and check wether the test
results are comparable or not .
c. CORE INSULATION TEST : After above Take IR value of Core to Tank ,
Core to Frame and Frame to Tank (if external provision provided) with
insulation tester at 2.5 KV or at Voltage level over which test is performed at
factory
d. Core-Tank-Frame are shorted to each other as shown in Figure (1) below, for
IR Value measurement remove the shorting and take the reading and note
down the result in Table(1) as shown below. The tank shall be grounded
during the test and compare the result with factory test results. In no case,
these IR value found, should be zero between Core-Tank-Frame.
6
Table (1): Core-Tank-Frame IR value measurement format
If any abnormality noticed from above point a to c the X-mer should not be un-
loaded from the trailer and proper intimations should be given to the manufacturers and
higher authorities for necessary action.
After unloading of transformer on plinth and complete erection of main Tank, bushing,
conservator , radiators and other accessories and complete oil filling of transformer, Pre-
commissioning test are to be perform over transformer. The Procedure of various Pre-
Commissioning test are elaborated below:
1. Ratio Test
Ratio measurements must be made on all taps to confirm the proper alignment and
operation of the tap changers. The test should preferably be performed by automatic
Transformer turns ratio (TTR) meter.
A. Using automatic Transformer turns ratio (TTR) meter.
Here Testing is describing using DV Power Three Phase transformer turn ratio tester
TRT3X as shown in Figure (2). In addition to determining the voltage transformation ratio
which is the primary objective of this test, the polarity between the windings and phase
relationship between phases can also be easily established by the ratio meter in a single
operation. Before using the ratio meter, the instruction manual for operating the ratio meter
must be carefully studied and all precautions noted therein must be followed
Figure(2) : Front Panel of DV Power Three Phase transformer turn ratio tester TRT3X
a. Colors and marking of test cable of DV Power Three Phase transformer turn ratio
tester TRT3X shown in Table-(2)
7
b.
IEC Test ANSI Australian Transformer Australian Malaysian
Test Lead
Lead Test Lead Test Lead Terminal Test Lead Test Lead
Color IEC
Marking Marking Marking Voltage Colors Colors
c. Figure (3) Shows the connection of TRT3X turn ratio tester to 3-Ph Auto-
transformer, HV Test cable lead H1(Red), H2(Yellow),H3(Blue) and H0(Black)
Connected to Transformer HV-1U,1V,1W and N respectively and LV Test cable lead
X1(Red), X2(Yellow),X3(Blue) and X0(Black) Connected to Transformer LV-
2U,2V,2W and N.
8
d. If the three-phase transformer autotransformer has a tertiary winding, it should be
tested the same way as the secondary. The transformer is energized using the high
voltage windings. Test leads 2U, 2V, 2W and 2N (X1, X2, X3 and X0) are in this case
connected to the tertiary winding of the transformer.
e. Figure (4) Shows the connection of TRT3X turn ratio tester to 3-Ph conventional
two winding transformer. HV Test cable lead H1(Red), H2(Black),H3(Yellow) and
H0(Blue) Connected to Transformer HV-1U,1V,1W and 1N respectively and LV Test
cable lead X1(Red), X2(Black),X3(Yellow) and X0(Blue) Connected to Transformer
LV-2U,2V,2W and 2N
f. Figure (5) Shows the connection of TRT3X turn ratio tester to 1-Ph Auto-
transformer,. HV Test cable lead H1(Red) and H0(Blue) Connected to Transformer
HV-1U and 1N respectively and LV Test cable lead X1(Red) and X0(Blue)
Connected to Transformer LV-2U and 2N.
9
Figure(5): Example of connecting TRT3x to a single-phase autotransformer
g. Figure (6) Shows the connection of TRT3X turn ratio tester to 1-Ph conventional
two winding transformer,. HV Test cable lead H1(Red) and H0(Blue) Connected to
Transformer HV-1U and 1N respectively and LV Test cable lead X1(Red) and
X0(Blue) Connected to Transformer LV-2U and 2N.
10
If the test object is a three-phase transformer or three-phase
autotransformer, the single-phase test is performed by applying a single-
phase test voltage to each of the three H terminals in turns. The voltages
across each of the corresponding X terminals are then measured. The ratio
of these voltages is calculated and presented on the display. It is repeated
for all three phases automatically, based on the selected/detected
transformer vector group
If the test object is a single-phase transformer or single-phase
autotransformer, the TRT3x will apply one single-phase test voltage
between selected H terminals, and will measure voltage across selected X
terminals
i. Three Phase Test mode of TRT3X :
The TRT3x will apply true three-phase test voltage between the terminals
1U-1V-1W (H1-H2-H3, A-B-C), and will measure a three-phase voltage
between the terminals 2U-2V-2W (X1-X2-X3, a-b-c). Three turns ratios are
calculated, as per the Table 3
Applied voltage Measured voltage
Phase
between terminals between terminals
1U-1V 2U-2V
A H1-H2 X1-X2
A-B a-b
1V-1W 2V-2W
B H2-H3 X2-X3
B-C b-c
1W-1U 2W-2U
C H3-H1 X3-X1
C-A c-a
11
Figure(7) : Results after test
k. Results of the transformation turns or voltage ratio are absolute, and may be
compared with the specified values measured during factory testing. The turns ratio
tolerance should be within 0.5 % of the nameplate specifications
12
b. % Deviation is calculated from formula = (Cal. Ratio – Std. Ratio)/Std. ratio * 100
Where Cal. Ratio is Calculated ratio and Std. Ratio is Standard Ratio of Transformer.
d. This is not an accurate method, as the instruments used to measure the voltage may
not have the required accuracy.
e. The ratio is to be determined at all the taps. The test can be started from one
extreme tap and measurement taken for each tap up to the other extreme by
operating the OLTC without switching off supply voltage while operating the OLTC.
Increase or decrease in the LV side voltage for each tap should more or less
correspond to the percentage mentioned for that tap in the name-plate.
13
Figure(8) Arrangement for measurement of magnetic Balance
Connect all three phases of HV,IV,LV and Neutral Bushing top through insulated
wire at respected terminal marked on above testing board as 1U,1V,1W ,2U,2V,2W &
3U,3V,3W N respectively and testing is done in three steps as elaborated below :
Apply 1-Ph Voltage 230 V across one phase of Highest Voltage (HV) winding
terminal and neutral i.e 1U-N, then measure Induced voltage in other two HV
terminals across neutral i.e 1V-N & 1W-N and Intermediate Voltage (IV)
Winding Terminal and neutral 2U-N,2V-N & 2W-N and Lowest Voltage (LV)
winding terminal 3U-3W,3U-3V & 3V-3W as shown in Figure(9)
14
Figure(9) Measurement of magnetic Balance when 1-ph supply given on HV side and
measure on HV,IV & LV side
Repeat the test for Remaining Two phase of HV winding i.e for 1V-N & 1W-N
and note down the result as shown in Table-5.
230V Measure Induce Voltage in Volts at Terminal
Supply
1U- 1V- 3U- 3V-
at 1W-N 2U-N 2V-N 2W-N 3U-3V
N N 3W 3W
terminal
1U-N 230
1V-N 230
1W-N 230
Table-5 :1-ph 230V supply given to HV terminal and voltage measure at HV,IV &
LV Terminal
Apply 1-Ph Voltage 230 V across one phase of Intermediate Voltage (IV)
Winding Terminal and neutral i.e 2U-N, then measure Induced voltage in
other two IV terminals across neutral i.e 2V-N & 2W-N and Lowest Voltage
(LV) winding terminal 3U-3W,3U-3V & 3V-3W as shown in Figure(10).
15
Figure(10) : Measurement of magnetic Balance when 1-ph supply given to IV
terminal and voltage measure a ,IV & LV
Repeat the test for Remaining Two phase of IV winding i.e 2V-N & 2W-N and
note down the result as shown in Table-6.
Apply 1-Ph Voltage 230 V across one phase of Lowest Voltage (LV) winding
terminal i.e 3U-3W, then measure Induced voltage in other two LV terminals
i.e. 3U-3V & 3V-3W as shown in Figure(11)
16
Figure(11) : Measurement of magnetic Balance when 1-ph 230V supply given to
LV terminal and voltage measure LV Terminal
Repeat the test for Remaining Two phase of LV winding i.e 3U-3V & 3V-3W
and note down the result as shown in Table-7.
Compare the measured result with factory test results and the identical results
confirm no damage due to transportation.
17
terminals across neutral i.e 1V-N & 1W-N and Low Voltage (LV) Winding
Terminal and neutral 2U-N,2V-N & 2W-N as shown in Figure(12).
Repeat the test for Remaining Two phase of HV winding i.e. 1V-N & 1W-N
and note down the result as shown in Table-8.
18
Figure(13) : Measurement of Magnetic Balance when 1-ph 230V supply
given to LV terminal and voltage measure at LV
Repeat the test for Remaining Two phase of LV winding i.e for 2V-N & 2W-N
and note down the result as shown in Table-9.
Compare the measured result with factory test results and the identical results
confirm no damage due to transportation.
n. Also the applied voltage may be expressed as 100% voltage and the induced voltage
may be expressed as percentage of the applied voltage. This will help in comparison
of the two results when the applied voltages are different. The voltage induced in
the centre phase shall be 50 to 90% of the applied voltage. However, when the
centre phase is excited then the voltage induced in the outer phases shall be
30 to 70% of the applied voltage
19
2 Magnetizing current Test :
This test is performed to locate defects in the magnetic core structure, shifting of
windings, failure in turn to turn insulation or problem in tap changers. These conditions
change the affective reluctance of the magnetic circuit, thus affecting the current required to
establish flux in the core. Abnormal value of magnetizing current can indicate inter turn short
in the windings or problem in the core like core shifting etc., So magnetizing current is a very
important parameter to be taken before commissioning a new Transformer
Note :- This test should be done before DC measurements of winding resistance
to reduce the effect of residual magnetism. Magnetizing current readings may be
effected by residual magnetism in the core. Therefore, transformer under test may be
demagnetized before commencement of magnetizing current test.
20
Figure(14) : Omicron CPC-80 Capacitance and Tan Delta measurement kit used for
magnetizing current measurement
vii. Keep Step of variac as 5 and disable or kept OFF other ICON as shown in
Figure(16)
21
Figure(15) : Omicron CPC-80 Front panel
viii. Now Push Start Button two times for starting the Test.
22
ix. When Testing Done Result Shown on Screen as shown in Figure(16)
For HV Side- Connect HV Lead of Testing Kit on R phase of Highest Voltage
(HV) winding terminal i.e 1U and LV Lead of Testing Kit on neutral i.e N as
shown in Figure(17), then Start the Kit as explain above and measure
magnetizing current of HV R-phase i.e for 1U-N.
Repeat the test for Remaining Two phase of HV winding i.e. 1V-N & 1W-N
and note down the result as shown in Table-10.
23
Figure(18) : Measurement of IV Magnetizing current
Repeat the test for Remaining Two phase of IV winding i.e. 2V-N & 2W-N and
note down the result as shown in Table-11.
Note :- For IV Side measure the Magnetizing current at all taps in order
check correctness of tap Changer.
24
Figure(19) : Measurement of LV Magnetizing current
Repeat the test for Remaining Two phase of LV winding i.e. 3U-3V & 3V-3W
and note down the result as shown in Table-12.
Compare the measured result with factory test results and the identical results
confirm no damage due to transportation.
25
shown in Figure(20), then Start the Kit as explain above and measure
magnetizing current of HV R-phase i.e for 1U-N.
Repeat the test for Remaining Two phase of HV winding i.e. 1V-N & 1W-N
and note down the result as shown in Table-13
Supply Measured Magnetizing Current
Tap No.
Voltage 1U-N 1V-N 1W-N
230 V
5 KV
10 KV
Table-13 :Measurement of Magnetizing Current of HV Terminal.
26
Figure(21) : Measurement of LV Magnetizing current
Repeat the test for Remaining Two phase of LV winding i.e. 2V-N & 2W-N
and note down the result as shown in Table-14.
Supply Measured Magnetizing Current
Tap No.
Voltage 2U-N 2V-N 2W-N
230 V
5 KV
10 KV
Table-14 : Measurement of Magnetizing Current of LV Terminal
Note :- For LV Side measure the Magnetizing current at all taps in order
check correctness of tap Changer.
Compare the measured result with factory test results and the identical results
confirm no damage due to transportation
p. The test values on the outside legs should be within 15 % of each other, and values
for the centre leg should not be more than either outside for a three- phase
transformers. Results compared to factory tests made under the same conditions
should not vary more than 25%. If the measured exciting current value is 50
times higher than the value measured during Factory test, then there is
likelihood of a fault in the winding which needs further analysis.
27
a. For 3-Ph Auto-transformer having tertiary winding, Figure(8) shown the testing
board for testing magnetizing current of Transformer connect all three phases of
HV,IV,LV and Neutral Bushing top through insulated wire at respected terminal
marked on testing board and testing is done in three steps as elaborated below :
For HV Side- Apply 1-Ph Voltage 230 V across one phase of Highest Voltage
(HV) winding terminal and neutral i.e 1U-N, and measure the current with
Ammeter or Current Clamp meter in 1U phase with proper current range
selection as shown in Figure(21).
28
Figure(22) : Measurement of IV Magnetizing current
Repeat the test for Remaining Two phase of IV winding i.e for 2V-N & 2W-N
and note down the result as shown in Table-16.
Note :- For IV Side measure the Magnetizing current at all taps in order
check correctness of tap Changer.
For LV Side-Apply 1-Ph Voltage 230 V across one phase of Lowest Voltage
(LV) winding terminal i.e 3U-3W and measure the current with Ammeter or
Current Clamp meter in 3U phase with proper current range selection as
shown in Figure(23).
29
Figure(23) : Measurement of LV Magnetizing current
Repeat the test for Remaining Two phase of LV winding and note down the
result as shown in Table-17.
Compare the measured result with factory test results and the identical results
confirm no damage due to transportation
30
Figure(24) : Measurement of HV Magnetizing current
Repeat the test for Remaining Two phase of HV winding i.e for 1V-N & 1W-N
and note down the result as shown in Table-18.
31
Figure(25) : Measurement of LV Magnetizing current
Repeat the test for Remaining Two phase of LV winding i.e for 2V-N & 2W-N
and note down the result as shown in Table-19
Tap 230 V Supply Voltage Measured Magnetizing Current in
No. At Terminal (mA)
2U-N 2U
2V-N 2V
2W-N 2W
Table-19 : Measurement of Magnetizing Current of LV Terminal
Note :- For LV Side measure the Magnetizing current at all taps in order
check correctness of tap Changer..
Compare the measured result with factory test results and the identical results
confirm no damage due to transportation
c. The test values on the outside legs should be within 15 % of each other, and values
for the centre leg should not be more than either outside for a three- phase
transformers. Results compared to factory tests made under the same conditions
should not vary more than 25%. If the measured exciting current value is 50
times higher than the value measured during Factory test, then there is
likelihood of a fault in the winding which needs further analysis
32
3 Vector group test
Vector group test is done to determine the phase relation ship of transformer. It very
important in order to paralleling or banking two or more transformers. Phase-relation tests
are made to determine angular displacement and relative phase sequence. Phase-relation
or vector group verification test is performed on a three phase transformer or on a bank of
three single-phase transformers.
.Vector group of transformer is also tested by automatic Transformer turns ratio (TTR)
meter as shown in Figure(2) and the procedure for testing vector group is same as turn ratio
testing as describe in Para 1.A.
a. When a ratio meter is not available, the vector group may be determined by using
testing Board as shown in Figure(8). connect all three phases of HV,IV,LV and
Neutral Bushing top through insulated wire at respected terminal marked on testing
board and testing is done in steps as elaborated below:
b. For 3-Ph Auto-transformer with tertiary winding having Vector group YNa0d11
testing is done in steps elaborated below:
1. Connected 1U and 3U terminal together in the arrangement as shown in
Figure(26) and 3-Ph supply given to HV terminal i.e on 1U-1V-1W.
4. Now for vector group YNa0d11 , following are the condition to verify the
vector group,
33
If , I = II = V = VI,
IX = ( X + XI )
III = IV = VIII < VII
c. For 3-Ph Two Winding transformer having Vector group YNyn0 testing is done
in steps elaborated below:
1. Connected 1U and 2U terminal together in the arrangement as shown in
Figure(27) : Measurement and 3-Ph supply given to HV terminal i.e on
1U-1V-1W.
2. Now measure the voltages between the terminal as given in factory test
result for verification of Vetor Group YNyn0
3. As per factory test result , Measure the Voltage between terminal as:
I. 1U-2W
II. 1U-2V
III. 1W-2W
IV. 1V-2V
V. 1U-2N
VI. 1N-2n
VII. 1U-1N
4. Now for vector group YNyn0 , following are the condition to verify the
vector group,
If , I = II ,
III = IV
V + VI = VII
Then Vector group is YNyn0
34
b. The measurement is performed in Three Phase. This test is performed for the
combination of two winding.
c. Before commencing the test, the short circuit current is to be calculated for the
available Supply mains voltage from the percentage impedance of the transformer.
For Example
Now %Z (HV-IV) i.e 11.28 % of 400 KV = 45120 V will Deliver rated current of
455 A on Short Ckt of IV Side
Therefore 3-Ph Supply 440 V will deliver = (440 * 455) / 45120 = 4.43 A, Short
circuit current of HV side.
For IV Side Short circuit current = 4.43 * (400/220) = 8.06 A
Now %Z (HV-LV) i.e. 41.97 % of 400 KV = 167880 V will Deliver rated current
of 455 A on Short Ckt of LV Side
Therefore 3-Ph Supply 440 V will deliver = (440 * 455) / 167880 = 1.19 A, Short
circuit current of HV side.
For LV Side Short circuit current = (1.19 * (400/33)) / 1.732 = 8.32 A
II. For 40 MVA X-mer 132/33 KV Having %Z (HV-LV) = 9.68 % , at Normal tap
and HV rated current – 175 A and LV rated Current – 700 A
d. Based on the calculated short circuit currents for the available mains voltage, the
instruments to read the HV and LV currents and the range to be selected can be
decided for the short circuit test.
e. The transformer testing Board used for Magnetic balance test is can also be used
for Short circuit current test as shown in Figure(8).
35
f. For 3-Ph Auto-transformer having tertiary winding, Connect all three phases of
HV,IV,LV and Neutral Bushing top through insulated wire at respected terminal
marked on above testing board as 1U,1V,1W ,2U,2V,2W & 3U,3V,3W N
respectively and testing is done in steps as elaborated below.
I. 3-phase Supply is given to HV Side with IV side Shorted and kept LV Side
open as shown in Figure(28) and then measure the HV and IV Current using
Current Clamp Meter or Tong Tester with Neutral Grounded and without
Neutral grounded and Note down the result in Table-20 as shown below
II. 3-phase Supply is given to HV Side with LV side Shorted and kept IV Side
open as shown in Figure(29). and then measure the HV and LV Current using
36
Current Clamp Meter or Tong Tester with Neutral Grounded and without
Neutral grounded and Note down the result in Table-21 as shown below
g. For 3-Ph Conventional Two Winding transformer , Connect all three phases of
HV,LV and Neutral Bushing top through insulated wire at respected terminal
marked on above testing board as 1U,1V,1W,1N and 2U,2V,2W, 2N respectively
and testing is done in steps as elaborated below.
37
Figure(30) : Measurement of Short Circuit current of HV with LV Shorted
h. Compare the result with factory test result or with Theoretical calculated current
The acceptable criteria should be the measured short circuit current will be within 3
percent .Variation in short circuit of more than 3% should be considered significant
and further investigated.
38
Before using the Omicron CPC-80, the instruction manual for operating the Kit must
be carefully studied and all precautions noted therein must be followed
Setup of Omicron CPC-80 kit for measurement of Capacitance & Tan δ of
Transformer windings:
i. Power Supply for Kit should be phase controlled with ground
39
Figure(31): Screen showing result in different mode
a. Figure(32) Shows the combination of capacitance between the windings and
between winding and tank (earth).CH is the capacitance between the HV/IV winding
and grounded tank and core, CL is the capacitance between the LV winding and
grounded tank and core and CHL is the capacitance between the HV/IV winding and
LV winding.
40
Figure(32) : Capacitance between the Windings
b. Ensure that test specimen is isolated from other equipments. Removal of Jumpers
from Bushings is Pre-Requisite for C & Tan δ Measurement of Windings.
c. For 3-Ph Auto-transformer, Short all HV (High Voltage bushing), IV (Intermediate
Voltage Bushing) and Neutral (isolated from earth) Bushings together. Also short all
LV (Low Voltage) Bushings together as shown in Figure(33) .
Tes
Winding Test Capacitanc
t Test Lead Connection Remark
Combination Mode e symbol
no.
1. HV-IV/LV UST CHL HV lead of test Kit to shorted
2. HV-IV/LV+ G GST CH + CHL HV/IV bushing of transformer
LV lead of test kit to shorted LV to be
HV-IV/ LV with
3. GSTg CH LV bushing of transformer as guarded
Guard
shown in Figure(34)
4. LV/HV-IV UST CHL LV lead of test Kit to shorted
5. LV+ G /HV-IV GST CL + CHL HV/IV bushing of transformer
HV lead of test kit to shorted HV to be
LV /HV-IV with
6. GSTg CL LV bushing of transformer as guarded
Guard
shown in Figure(35)
Table-23 : Winding Combination for Capacitance & Tan δ measurement for Auto
Transformer
41
Figure(33) : Arrangement for Capacitance & Tan δ measurement for Auto Transformer
Figure(34) : Arrangement for Capacitance & Tan δ measurement for Auto Transformer
d. For 3-Ph Conventional Two winding or Three Winding Transformer Short all
HV(High Voltage bushing) and HV Neutral (isolated from earth) Bushings together
and Short all LV(Low Voltage) Bushings and LV Neutral (isolated from earth)
Bushings together as shown in Figure(36).
42
Figure(36) : Top View of 3-ph Two Winding transformer with Shorting
Tes
Winding Test Capacitanc
t Test Lead Connection Remark
Combination Mode e symbol
no.
1. HV/LV UST CHL HV lead of test Kit to HV/IV
2. HV/LV+ G GST CH + CHL bushing of transformer
LV lead of test kit to LV LV to be
HV/ LV with
3. GSTg CH bushing of transformer as guarded
Guard
shown in Figure(37)
4. LV/HV UST CHL LV lead of test Kit to HV/IV
5. LV+ G /HV GST CL + CHL bushing of transformer
HV lead of test kit to LV HV to be
LV /HV with
6. GSTg CL bushing of transformer as guarded
Guard
shown in Figure(38)
Table-24 : Winding Combination for Capacitance & Tan δ measurement for
Conventional Two winding Transformer
43
Figure(37) : Arrangement for Capacitance & Tan δ measurement for 3-ph Two Winding
Transformer
Figure(38): Arrangement for Capacitance & Tan δ measurement for 3-ph Two Winding
Transformer
e. Measurement inter-check can be done by calculating
C1= C2-C3 & C4= C5- C6
Where C stands for capacitance attached suffix (1…6) denotes the sr. no. of test in
above Table-23 & 24
44
f. Compare the measured result with factory test results, the accepted deviation from
the values measured at factory tests should be less than 10%.
g. Tan delta (δ) of Winding at 20˚C should be less than 0.007.
45
Figure (39) Internal Bushing Capacitance arrangement
f. (Tan delta (δ) point ) of the Bushing which is to be tested. Figure(39) shows the
internal arrangement of Bushing. C1 is the capacitance between HV terminal of
bushing and test tap(Tan delta (∂) point ) and C2 is the capacitance between test
tap(Tan delta (∂) point) and earth
g. Measurement of C1 Capacitance and Tan δ in UST Mode :
Connect the crocodile clip of the HV cable to the top terminal of the any one
shorted HV/IV and LV bushings for the measurement of HV/IV, N and LV
Bushing respectively. Unscrew the test tap(Tan delta (δ) point ) cover, in
order to Un-earth Tan delta (δ) point insert a pin in the hole of the central
test tap stud by pressing the surrounding contact plug or remove the
earthing strip from the flange by unscrewing the screw (holding earth strip to
the flange body) as per the arrangement available in bushing at site .
Connect the LV cable to the test tap (Tan delta (δ) point ) (strip/central
stud) of the bushing.
Apply 5KV/10KV in UST Mode from C & TAN δ measurement Omicron Kit
through cable. Repeat the test for all Bushings by changing only LV lead
connection of the kit to test tap(Tan delta (δ) point ) of the Bushing which is
to be tested
Compare the measured result with factory test results, the accepted
deviation from the values measured at factory tests should be less than
10%.
46
Tan delta (δ) of bushings at 20˚C should be less than 0.007
h. Measurement of C2 Capacitance and Tan δ in GSTg Mode :
HV lead to be connected to the test tap(Tan delta (δ) point ) of the bushing
under test (if required additional crocodile type clip may be used) and LV of
the kit to be connected to the ground. HV of the bushing is to be connected
to the Guard terminal of the test kit.
Apply 500V in GSTg mode from C & TAN δ measurement Omicron Kit
through a screened cable. Repeat the test for all Bushings by changing only
HV lead connection of the kit to test tap
Compare the measured result with factory test results. The capacitance
between bushing test tap(Tan delta (δ) point ) and ground is largely
influenced by the stray capacitances in the ground parts in the transformer
and hence large deviation in the measured value shall be accepted when
compared with the factory test value.
i. Do not test a bushing (new or spare) while it is in its wood shipping crate, or while it
is lying on wood. Wood is not as good an insulator as porcelain and will cause the
readings to be inaccurate. Keep the test results as a baseline record to compare with
future tests.
j. It is to be ensured that C& Tan δ measurement of bushings and testing of turrets
carried out before installation. This will prevent installation of bushings having C&
Tan δ values beyond permissible limits.
k. It is to be ensured that Test Tap points are earthed immediately after carrying
out the measurements for that particular Bushing and earthing of test tap to be
ensured by carrying out continuity test
47
of time. Insulation resistance varies inversely with temperature and is generally
corrected to a standard temperature (usually 60 °C) using Multiplication Factor table
available in Transformer life sketch book.
c. Insulation resistance of transformer for different winding combination is taken at Oil
Temp. (OT) at time of testing for 15 second, 60 seconds( 1 min) and 600 seconds(10
min) at 5 KV Voltage.
d. The ratio of 60 second insulation resistance to 15 second insulation resistance value
is called dielectric absorption coefficient or Index (DAI). For oil filled transformers
with class A insulation, in reasonably dried condition the absorption coefficient will be
more than 1.3.
DAI = ( R60 / R15 )
Where R60 is the Insulation Resistance at 60 sec. & R15 is the Insulation Resistance at
15 sec
e. Polarization Index Test is ratiometric test, insensitive to temperature variation and
may be used to predict insulation system performance. The polarization index is the
ratio of the 10 min to the 1 min mega ohm readings.
PI = ( R600 / R60 )
Where R600 is the Insulation Resistance at 600 sec. & R60 is the Insulation Resistance
at 60 sec
f. Before Starting the I.R value measurement following points must be ensure :
I. The transformer neutral is to be disconnected from ground. It should be ensured
that there are no jumpers connected on to the transformer bushings.
II. The bushing porcelain and test tap are to be properly cleaned before the
commencement of tests
III. The Insulation Tester may be preferably kept on a flat wooden board or stool.
Insulation Tester leads should be strong and have a very good insulation.
IV. The HV lead between the transformer bushing connection and Insulation Tester
terminal must be kept suspended in the air by holding with a sufficiently long and
good and flexible insulation tape (glass tape or dry cotton tape for instance) so
that no part of the HV lead comes into contact with the earth or transformer body.
V. If the transformer has been under hot oil circulation, the insulation resistance has
to be measured after the transformer has sufficiently cooled.
VI. Along with the IR values, the winding/oil temperatures at the time of test, Date
and time, details of the Insulation tester used and the weather condition are to be
noted
VII. Figure(40) below show the Front panel of Megger Make AVO BM25 Insulation
Tester
48
g. Testing Procedure For 3-Ph Auto-transformer, Short all HV (High Voltage
bushing), IV (Intermediate Voltage Bushing) and Neutral (isolated from earth)
Bushings together. Also short all LV (Low Voltage) Bushings together as shown in
Figure(33) .
I. Now connect HV lead of Insulation Tester to the any one shorted bushing of
HV/IV winding and the ground lead of Insulation Tester connected to one of the
earth terminals of transformer tank. as shown in Figure(41).
49
Figure(41) : Showing the arrangement for measurement of IR value between
HV-E
50
IV. Now record Insulation resistance of LV to E for 15 second, 60 seconds( 1 min)
and 600 seconds(10 min) at 5 KV Voltage & calculate DAI & PI and note down
the result in Table(25)
V. Now connect HV lead of Insulation Tester to the any one shorted bushing of
HV/IV winding and the earth lead of Insulation Tester connected to any one
shorted bushing of LV winding of transformer tank. as shown in Figure(43).
51
I. Now connect HV lead of Insulation Tester to the any one shorted bushing of HV
winding and the earth lead of Insulation Tester connected to one of the earth
terminals of transformer tank. as shown in Figure(44).
52
Figure(45) : Showing the arrangement for measurement of IR value between HV-E
53
Figure(46) : Showing the arrangement for measurement of IR value between HV-E
i. The following are guidelines for evaluating transformer insulation using polarization
index values:
A PI of more than 1.25 and DAI of more than 1.3 are generally considered
satisfactory for a transformer when the results of other low voltage tests are
found in order. PI less than 1 calls for immediate corrective action.
54
j. Testing Procedure For IR Value measurement of Bushing ..
I. The bushing porcelain and test tap are to be properly cleaned before the
commencement of tests
II. For 3-Ph Auto-transformer, Short all HV (High Voltage bushing), IV
(Intermediate Voltage Bushing) and Neutral (isolated from earth) Bushings
together. Also short all LV (Low Voltage) Bushings together as shown in
Figure(33). .
III. Connect HV Lead of Insulation tester to the top terminal of the any one shorted
HV/IV or N bushings and the earth lead of insulation tester to the test tap(Tan
delta (δ) point ) of the bushing as shown in Figure(47). and measure the IR value
at voltage as measure in factory test.
IV. Repeat the test for all HV/IV/N Bushings by changing only the earth lead of
insulation tester to test tap(Tan delta (δ) point ) of the Bushing which is to be
tested.
V. Repeat above step III & IV for the measurement of IR value for LV Bushings
VI. For 3-Ph Conventional Two winding or Three Winding Transformer Short all
HV(High Voltage bushing) and HV Neutral (isolated from earth) Bushings
together and short all LV(Low Voltage) Bushings and LV Neutral (isolated from
earth) Bushings together as shown in Figure(36).
55
VII. Connect HV Lead of Insulation tester to the top terminal of the any one shorted
HV or N bushings and the earth lead of insulation tester to the test tap(Tan delta
(δ) point of the bushing as shown in Figure(47). and measure the IR value at
voltage as measure in factory test.
VIII. Repeat the test for all HV Bushings by changing only the earth lead of insulation
tester to test tap(Tan delta (δ) point ) of the Bushing which is to be tested
IX. Repeat above step VII & VIII for the measurement of IR value for LV Bushings
l. Compare the above measured result of transformer and bushing with factory test
results and if any deviation found will reporting immediately.
56
for operating the Kit must be carefully studied and all precautions noted therein must
be followed
Figure(48) : Front pane of Scope Make TRM25 Winding resistance measurement kit
NORMAL
0.0 V 0.00 A
HV 1U - S1 S2
REVERSED 1.814 V 7.0 mA
NORMAL 0.0 V 0.00 A
R – PHASE
LV 2 U – S1 S2
REVERSED 3.89 V 15.1 mA
NORMAL 0.0 V 0.0 A
NCT S1 S2
REVERSED 2.36 V 9.0 mA
NORMAL
0.0 V 0.00 A
HV 1 V – S1 S2
REVERSED 1.84 V 7.2 mA
Y – PHASE NORMAL 0.0 V 0.00 A
LV 2 V – S1 S2
REVERSED 3.96 V 15.6 mA
NORMAL
0.0 V 0.0 A
57
NCT S1 S2
REVERSED 2.389 V 9.4 mA
NORMAL
0.0 V 0.00 A
HV 1 W – S1 S2
REVERSED 1.80 V 6.8 mA
NORMAL
0.0 V 0.00 A
B – PHASE
LV 2 W – S1 S2
REVERSED 3.89 V 15.2 mA
NORMAL 0.0 V 0.0 A
NCT S1 S2
REVERSED 2.356 V 9.2 mA
c. LOW IMPEDANCE REF TEST: Nowadays we are using numerical differential relays
and almost all relays are having REF element (restricted earth fault). The numerical
relays are also giving advantage of using Low Impedance REF. In Low Impendence
Winding resistance is measured by applying Voltage and current from the kit,
SCOPE TRM 25 have three voltage Channel V1, V2 & V3 and current channel C +/-.
d. Connection for the current lead clamp should be made to the outer side of the
bushing and Voltage lead clamp should be connected to the inner side w.r.t current
lead clamp as shown in Figure(49). and be ensure that Voltage and current lead
clamp should not touch other physically.
58
e. The transformer winding is highly inductive. To reduce the high inductive effect it is
advisable to use a sufficiently high current to saturate the core. This will reduce the
time required to get a stabilized reading.
f. Before starting the measurement following point must be ensure.
I. Isolate the transformer to be tested .
II. Connect master earthing cable to the instrument.
III. Clean the area of transformer bushing where test lead clamp connection are to
be made.
IV. Ensure that earthing connection, if any is removed from Neutral terminal of
transformer.
V. Now make connection for CURRENT (C+, C-) and VOLTAGE ( V1+, V1- & V2+,
V2- & V3+, V3-) lead as describing below, to the transformer bushings.
VI. The winding/oil temperatures at the time of test, Date and time, details of the
Testing kit used and the weather condition are to be noted
g. Testing Procedure For 3-Ph Auto-transformer, Here winding resistance of HV
winding, IV winding and LV winding is measure.
I. Connect Current lead clamp C+ to 1U terminal of HV Bushing and Current lead
clamp C- to 2W terminal of IV Bushing
II. Connect Channel-1 Voltage lead clamp V CH1+ & VCH1- across 1U-N, Channel-2
Voltage lead clamp VCH2+ & VCH2- across 2U-N and Channel-3 Voltage lead
clamp VCH3+ & VCH3- across 2W-N as shown in Figure(50)..
59
Figure(50) : Connection for TRM25 Winding resistance measurement kit for Auto x-
mer
III. Ensure that the current lead clamp should be made to the outer side of the
bushing and Voltage lead clamp should be connected to the inner side w.r.t
current lead clamp.
IV. The tap changer should be changed from contact to contact so that contact
resistance can also be checked Now Bring the tap Position to Tap No-1 and Start
the testing and record the resistance of 1U-N, 2U-N & 2W-N at tap no-1 .
Measurement of winding resistance to be carried out from tap position 1 to 17
and note down the result in Table-26 & Table-27 as shown below.
V. Now repeat the process as explain above in points I to IV for the measurement of
resistance of 1W -N, 2V-N & 1V-N by connecting leads as shown in Figure(51).
and note down the result in Table-26 & Table-27 as shown below.
Figure(51) : Connection for TRM25 Winding resistance measurement kit for Auto
x-mer
VI. For measurement of winding resistance of LV delta connected windings, such as
tertiary winding of auto- transformers, measurement shall be done between pairs
of line terminals by 3U-3V using single voltage channel V CH1+ & VCH1- and current
channel C+ & C- as shown in Figure(52) and repeat the same process for
measurement of resistance for 3V-3W & 3U-3W and note down the result in
Table-28 as shown below.
60
Figure(52) : Connection for TRM25 Winding resistance measurement kit for
Tertiary of Auto X-mer
61
VII. Now Calculate the resistance at 75°C as per the following formula
R75 = Rt (235+75)/(235+t ), Where Rt = Measure Resistance and t is winding
temperature
Figure(53) : Connection for TRM25 Winding resistance measurement kit for Two
Winding X-mer
III. Ensure that the current lead clamp should be made to the outer side of the
bushing and Voltage lead clamp should be connected to the inner side w.r.t
current lead clamp.
IV. The tap changer should be changed from contact to contact so that contact
resistance can also be checked Now Bring the tap Position to Tap No-1 and Start
the testing and record the resistance of 1U-1N, 1W-1N & 2U-2N at tap no-1 .
62
Measurement of winding resistance to be carried out from tap position 1 to 17
and note down the result in Table-29 & Table-30 as shown below.
V. Now repeat the process as explain above in points I to IV for the measurement of
resistance of 1V-1N, 2V-2N & 2W-2N by connecting leads as shown in Figure-54
and note down the result in Table-29 & Table-30 as shown below.
Figure(54) : Connection for TRM25 Winding resistance measurement kit for Two
Winding X-mer
63
Table(30) : Format for Winding resistance measurement of LV Winding
VI. Now Calculate the resistance at 75°C as per the following formula
R75 = Rt (235+75)/(235+t ), Where Rt = Measure Resistance and t is winding
temperature
i. The resistance value obtained should be compared with the factory test valueResults
are compared to other phases in Star-connected transformers or between pairs of
terminals on a Delta–connected winding to determine if a resistance is too high or
low. Because field measurements make it unlikely that precise temperature
measurements of the winding can be made, the expected deviation for this test in the
field is 5.0 % of the factory test value.
64
Figure(1): Bay Diagram of 315 MVA X-mer showing equipment covers in Through
Fault stability test
To carry out test all three phase one side of transformer is shorted and 3 phase LV
voltage is applied on other side. Generally voltage is applied on HV side and LV side all
three phase are shorted. If current observed in relay is very low then supply can be fed from
LV side and shorting can be done in HV side. When shorting is done taking CT in circuit, it is
called OUT OF ZONE FAULT. When shorting is done in such a way that no current is
flowing through CT then it is called IN ZONE FAULT TEST. When this test is conducted
current in differential relay, backup relay and meter can also be checked and verified. When
voltage is applied say on HV side and LV is shorted then current will be drawn according to
percentage impedance of the transformer. Percentage impedance of transformer is the
percentage of HV voltage when applied to HV side of transformer and LV 3 phase is shorted.
Here Through fault stability test of 400/200/33 KV 315 MVA transformer is explain
% impedance (Z) = 11.28
65
Now %Z i.e 11.28 % of 400 KV = 45120 V will Deliver rated current of 455 A on Short Ckt
of 220 KV Side
Therefore 3-Ph Supply 440 V will deliver = (440 * 455) / 45120 = 4.43 A, Short circuit
current of 400 KV side.
For 220 KV Side Short circuit current = 4.43 * (400/220) = 8.06 A
CTR- HV 400KV Side 500/1, and LV 220KV Side 1200/1
A. OUT OF ZONE FAULT TEST : Three phase Voltage applied on HV 400 KV Side
and Shorting is provided on LV 220 KV Side keeping 220 KV Side CT IN.
a. Current shown in GE T60 Differential relay on HV and LV side is shown in
figure (2) below. This is stable condition all Three phase current are shown
with zero negative sequence current:
66
Figure(2): Current in HV & LV side when 3-Phase supply given to HV Side with LV
Side Shorted keeping LV CT IN
b. Now in order to check phase wise CT connection kept out HV R-phase
supply and keeping all 3-Ph LV side shorted and then current in HV and LV
side is shown in figure(3) below , Here Negative sequence current shown
because 1 phase out:
67
Figure(3): Current in HV & LV side when HV R-ph supply out with LV Side Shorted
keeping LV CT IN
c. Now kept out HV Y-phase supply and keeping all 3-Ph LV side shorted and
then current in HV and LV side is shown in figure(4) below, Here Negative
sequence current also shown because 1 phase out:
Figure(4): Current in HV & LV side when HV Y-ph supply out with LV Side Shorted
keeping LV CT IN
d. Now kept out HV B-phase supply and keeping all 3-Ph LV side shorted and
then current in HV and LV side is shown in figure(5) below, Here Negative
sequence current also shown because 1 phase out:
68
Figure(5): Current in HV & LV side when HV B-ph supply out with LV Side Shorted
keeping LV CT IN
B. IN ZONE FAULT TEST : Three phase Voltage applied on HV 400 KV Side and
Shorting is provided on LV 220 KV Side keeping 220 KV Side CT OUT. Current in
GE T60 relay on HV & LV Side is shown below in Figure (6) , Here Current on LV
Side is zero.
69
Figure(6): Current in HV & LV side when 3ph supply given on HV side with LV Side
Shorted keeping LV CT OUT.
70
11 REF Stability test.
This test is performed to check the correctness of CT polarity, CT secondary core
connections, connections at relay terminals and operation of relay under fault conditions.
A. HIGH IMPEDANCE REF TEST: For High Impedance REF relay Transformer
Bushing CT’s of Same Ratio are used and connected to the relay as shown below in
figure (7). Here CT connection of Auto Transformer with High Impedance REF relay
is shown
Figure(7): Connection diagram of HV,IV,LV & N Bushing CT for High Impedance REF
Relay.
a. High Impedance REF relays are voltage operated relay in order to check the
stability of REF voltage across CT terminal of REF relay are check by
changing polarity of connected CT.
b. 3-Phase AC Voltage applied on HV Side keeping LV Side all three Phase
Open. Now Earth LV side R-phase and measure the voltage across CT
terminal of REF relay and also measure the current in CT lead.
71
c. Under Normal Bushing CT polarity voltage across CT terminal of REF relay
and current in CT lead is zero which is stable condition, now reverse CT
polarity of NCT and measure the voltage across CT terminal of REF relay and
also measure the current in CT lead, considerable voltage and current
appears at CT terminal of REF relay which is unstable condition. Now
normalize the CT polarity of NCT.
d. Repeat the Process as describe in above point b & c for LV Y-phase and B-
phase and check the REF stability
e. Below table shows the result of REF stability test of 315 MVA Auto
Transformer
MEASURED VOLTAGE
MEASURED
PHASE CT POLARITY ACROSS REF TERMINALS
CURRENT
AT PANEL END
B. REF, CTs of different ratios can be used and bushing CTs are also not required.
GE and AREVA are giving Low impedance element and ABB relay can be configured
:
a. Advantage of LOW IMPEDANCE REF
Low Impedance REF uses main differential CT thus if it is provided on HV
side then its zone covers main CT to HV side transformer winding.
Likewise on LV side it covers main LV CT to LV winding of transformer. In
auto transformer it covers complete differential zone. Hence, besides
differential protection second unit protection can be availed for
transformer bays and transformer windings. Whereas High impedance
REF is restricted to transformer only. Most of the time tripping occurs due
to fault in bays.
The low impedance REF is free from Harmonic restraint feature; hence
we can get rid of delay caused by harmonic restraint feature. We can
safely charge transformer without thinking of delay in tripping due to
harmonic block
b. Setting of LOW Impedance REF in GE & AREVA Differential relay
In GE T60 Differential relay
72
In Areva Differential relay
73
c. Through Fault Stability test of LOW Impedance REF
Apply three phase voltages from HV side but if secondary currents are
very low and are not measurable by numerical relay then voltages can be
fed from LV side.
Three phase voltages are applied from LV side of transformer and on HV
side instead of shorting three phase only one phase is grounded as
shown in figure(8) . This is similar to single phase to ground fault. In this
74
way zero sequence current will flow in neutral circuit and if relay is
configured correctly no REF differential current will be observed.
Figure(8)
75
e. Current in GE T60 Relay with REF In-Correct polarity
76
_______________________________________________________________________
77
CHAPTER-2
DC SYSTEM OF EHV SUB-STATION
Rated voltage of the D.C. Control supply for Sub-station installations can be selected
from fairly standardised values of 220 V for 400 KV S/s, 110V for 132 KV S/s and 48 for
Communication system. The voltage of a lead-acid cell being 2 Volts per cell, the number of
cells in the battery would be half of the rated dc Voltage adopted. The energy storage
capacity of a battery is expressed in Ampere-hours which is the product of current in
amperes and the number of hours for which the same can be usefully delivered by the
battery. The ampere-hour capacity of a battery of lead acid cells varies with the rate of
discharge. The capacity is more at slower rates of discharge and less at higher rates of
discharge. Hence there is need for adopting a standard reference rate of discharge. The
Indian Standard Specifications listed in para 3.1 have adopted l0-hour rate as the standard
rate of discharge for specifying the Ah capacity of stationary batteries.
For Tubular Cells- IS: 1651-1991
78
The "Float" voltage being higher than the nominal voltage per cell, the DC bus voltage is
also higher than the rated voltage. For example a float voltage of 2.2 volts per cell would
raise the dc bus voltage to 121 volts in a 110 volt system with a 55 cell battery. Although the
bus voltage is about 10% higher than the rated voltage. it is acceptable for most
applications. However, if on account of special considerations variation of this order is not
permissible for a particular application one of the following charging procedures may be
adopted:
Selecting a Lower Float Voltage
This minimum float voltage should normally be 2.2 volts per cell. If a lower floating voltage is
adopted. It will call for application of equalising charges more frequently. Table below gives
in idea of the intervals at which equalising charges have to be applied corresponding to the
different floating voltages.
Boost Charging
Boost charging of battery is required to restore the specific gravity of the electrolyte in the
cells to then fully charged value. Boost charging is done by charging the battery at a high
rate till the specific gravity of electrolyte in the cells is restored to the fully charged value of
1.200 ± 0.005 at 27"C. This rate should be as high as is consistent with the pace of chemical
reaction taking place in the battery. If charging current higher than that consistent with the
chemical reaction is sent into the battery, the whole of it will not be utilised for charging the
cells and it will result in break-down of water in the electrolyte and liberation of hydrogen and
oxygen gases. This liberation of gases is called gassing. Violent gassing can result in
shedding of active material from the plates and damage to the cells. Too high a charging
current can also produce excessive heating which also can damage the cells. The
temperature of Electrolyte should not normally be allowed to exceed 38°C but in no case
more than 50°C during charging. If temperature tends to increase, the charging current may
be reduced and period of charge may be increased proportionately.
Boost Charging Scheme
As stated earlier under floating condition, the battery charger has an output voltage almost
equal to the rated voltage of the load. For boost charging, the output voltage of the charger
has to be increased to about 2.40 - 2.65 volts per cell in order to drive the required boost
79
charging current into the battery. Unless special measures are taken, the load also can be
subjected to higher voltage during this operation and the equipment constituting the load can
get damaged. The various methods for boost charging of battery without application of
higher than the rated voltage of the load are described below briefly.
Separate Boost and Float Charger Scheme with Blocking Diodes:
This scheme IS shown in figure below under float charge condition the boost charger switch
"S" is in the "off' position. The coil of contractor "A" is not energised. In this position, contacts
1, 2 and 3 of the contactor are open, but Its normally closed contact 4 is closed, and the
circuit of dc contactor "B" the contacts of which are In closed position, is complete. Thus the
battery, the float charger and the load are in parallel connection. The load current is being
supplied by the float charger which is also sending a small float charge current into the
battery so that the battery is maintained in a fully charged condition. If an emergency arises
and the ac supply fails, the output of float charger goes off but the battery is available to the
load. After the emergency is over and the ac supply is restored it is desired to boost charge
the battery. The boost charger switch "S" has to be closed. This energises the boost charger
through contacts 1. 2 and 3 of contactor "A" and a suitable voltage is applied across the
battery and it starts receiving the boost charge current. Contactor "A" being in energised
position, its normally closed contact 4 opens and de-energises contactor “B", thereby
opening its contacts. Thus the battery and the boost charger are isolated from the load and
the float charger. In this position, the high voltage of the boost charger is not applied to the
load which continues to be fed by the float charger. If during the boost charging operation,
the ac supply fails the contactor "A" drops, thereby energising contactor “B" the contacts of
contactor “B” there upon parallel the battery and the load. During the infinitely small time
involved in the cascade switching of contactor "A" and “B ", the load is connected through
the blocking diode across a reduced number of cells which depending on the degree of
recharging can supply up to the nominal system voltage to the load. If one of the chargers
becomes defective, the remaining healthy charger can still provide the charging facility even -
though it is somewhat restricted and a complete break-down is obviated. This scheme,
however, does not provide a direct connection between battery and the dc load, as during
the failure of AC supply, the flow of current has to take place through diode and contacts of
the contactor.
80
Thus if float mode of battery fails charger is to be kept in boost mode and manually we have
to keep voltage up to 121 Volts. The contactor B should also be kept on continuously by a by
a switch “full battery in circuit”. If for some time if battery is to be charged on boost then this
switch can be opened. Now the load will be fed through diode.
_____________________________________________________________________
81
CHAPTER-3
DC LEAKAGE
3. DC voltmeter
Instead of lamps voltmeter can be provided which can read voltage with (+) and (-)
sign with selector switch.
Fig
82
DC MIXING
400 KV Sub-stations and most of the 220 KV Sub-stations are having dual DC supply
source. Trip coil-1 of breaker is connected to DC source-1 and trip coil-2 is connected to DC
source-2. The C&R panels are also having two DPR and differential relays and their
auxiliary DC supply sources are independent. As two separate sources are available it is
very important to take care of mixing of DC source during commissioning of CB and C&R
panels. The possibilities increase when modifications are done in a haphazard manner.
The mixing of DC even on a single point will mix complete DC sources and then It becomes
very difficult to detect and eliminate DC mixing.
In a mix DC system if DC leakage is occurred it will affect both sources. Multiple DC
leakage may cause situation worse. Ghost voltage or fictitious very high voltage may appear
between positive to Earth and negative to earth. If leakage is having low resistive path then
there is strong possibility of mal-operation of relay/breaker and burning of relay/breaker coils.
Keeps watch on DC mixing regularly and if it is observed then it is to be attended
immediately. To detect problem first check latest work of commissioning or modification. If
problem is chronic then each individual panels are to be checked one by one for mixing
whenever shutdown is availed.
To detect and rectify problem of leakage current it is necessary to quantify the leakage
current and then identify the source of leakage
83
Features
No need to cut down the DC system, T-DCEFL can locate the earth fault, increases
the power network reliability.
It can test the AC Cross, to prevent the damage to devices because of that.
Auto test the DC system voltage, and can adjust the output voltage according to
different DC system, like 230V, 110V, 48V and 24V.
High intelligence, auto tell the grounding status, it can alarm when the system is
grounded.
It can indicate the current direction, to test the loop grounding fault.
It can display the grounding current waveform, the operator can tell the grounding
condition and avoid the effect for the distributed capacitance.
Using digital signal processing technique, calculate and display the current lively, the
sensibility is highly increased, max. 100K bad insulation fault can be detected.
The Transmitter can measure the grounding resistance and distributed capacitance,
calculate automatically the best frequency for the output signal.
The Transmitter can have two power supply methods, DC and AC; it can be powered
by the DC system directly.
Low voltage indication function.
PRINCIPLE OF OPERATION
T-DCEFL is composed by Transmitter, Receiver and Clamp.
Signal Generator or transmitter (Fixed) is connected across faulty bus bar (+ Ve or –Ve) and
ground, transmitted low frequency square wave signal. These transmitted signal flows from
generator to ground through fault and from ground it return back to Signal Transmitter, thus
path of signal is completed. During this operation, Signal Transmitter unit internally assesses
fault condition & automatically injects required voltage & current.
84
a. TRANSMITTER
85
b. RECEIVER
86
c. Clamp
87
Procedure
If there is fixed earth fault line selection device installed to the DC system, it should power off
it when we use the T-DCEFL for the fault detection, and also it is necessary to take off the
alarming relay to increase the detection accuracy.
Connection to use the Transmitter
To power off the Transmitter first, connect the +, - and Earth to the +, - and Earth of the DC
system separately. The red clip connects the positive polarity (+220v, +110v, +48v, +24v),
and the black clip connects to the negative polarity (0v), while the green clip connects the
earth (system earth).
Power supply
If the DC system is 220V or 110V system, we can use it to power the T-DCEFL Transmitter.
If the system is 48V or 24V, use the 220V AC to power it. When use DC system to power it,
the DC indication will light; when we use 220Vac to power it, the AC indication lights.
After connect well the Transmitter, power on it, and it will display the software information,
and then it will do the testing, the display is as Fig. 7.5 shows.
88
Connection to use the Receiver
Set the frequency
Plug the signal cable of the clamp to the Receiver, power on the clamp. Then hold the
ON/OFF button of the Receiver over 1 second, the Receiver is powered on. The reminding
information will display as Fig. 7.6
89
Fig. 7.8 Set Ref. reminding display
Attention: once the frequency is set, it cannot be changed, it needs to restart the Receiver if
the operator wants to set it again.
It will display SET REF. ?, we can press the SET REF. to confirm after the waveform is
stabilized. This process may need 5~20 seconds according to different frequency. After
setting the reference, the Receiver will record phase angel and display the current direction.
The display will be as Fig. 7.9
Here, the arrow on the upper right is the current direction. If it is before the fault location, it is
upward arrow, if there is earthed loop; it is downward arrow after the fault location. The
current value will also be displayed. If the DC system is earthed, it will display and alarm.
Attention: please don’t power off the Receiver before finding the fault position, because it
needs to reset the frequency and reference.
90
After finishing the set reference process, the Receiver will enter the testing process. Clip the
Clamp to the branch that needs to detect first, then press the ZERO button on the
Clamp, after that, press the REVERT button on the Receiver, the Receiver will test again.
The longer it tests, the better accuracy will have. Please remember to press ZERO and
REVERT every time the operator wants to clip the Clamp to a new branch.
Pinpointing:
To locate the earth fault is to measure the resistive current that flows the fault position using
Clamp, where there is earthed fault, there will have resistive current; while if it has no
earthed fault, there will have no resistive current. The branch with high grounded
capacitance and no earthed fault, there will have no resistive current, only capacitive current.
Pinpoint the fault position and pinpointing Procedures
A. First need to locate the branches, use the Clamp to clip the whole batch, two
branches or one branch, test them. If the grounded resistance is high, the Receiver
will not alarm, the operator can only tell whether there is branch earthed by the
waveform. If the grounded resistance is near to or lower than the national standard,
the Receiver will display the earthed condition and alarm.
B. If there is earthed branch, please go on the locating with the Tree method, from
branch to branch, then to smaller branch, till find the earthed line.
C. If we know that one circuit is earthed, and we need to pinpoint it, we need to locate
from the main to the end branches. If there is earthed waveform or alarm, which
indicates that the fault is still in the smaller branches, go on with the locating, till to
the end. If we still can not find the fault, then fault location is at the location between
where there is waveform and no waveform, then go on with the pinpointing.
D. If we can not find the fault location even to the end, it shows that the fault is with the
devices. If there are no faults on the branches, please locate the bus, the insulation
monitoring device and alarming relay.
Please locate the battery if there is no fault for the above all parts.
If loop earthed fault occurred to the DC system, the place where the current direction
changes is the fault position. (Please be noted that the current direction on the Clamp
should keep unchanged.)
91
Fig. 7.10 Single point earthed fault pinpointing process
92
Fig.7.12 Loop earthed pinpointing process
Typical Waveforms
When the DC to earth distribution capacitance is high, the capacitive current will be high, this
will influence the measuring accuracy of branch resistive current, the grounding resistance
measurable will decrease. When the grounding resistance is high enough, the auto alarming
function will invalid, then we can only tell it is capacitive earth or resistive
earth through the waveform.
The character of waveforms is as follows:
A、Earthed branch
The waveform looks like rectangular, the rise and drop edge changes with the system to
ground capacitance, the higher the capacitance is, the change will be more flat. The less the
grounding resistance is, the bigger amplitude of the waveform will be, it is as Fig. 7.13
shows.
93
B、High Capacitance with earthed branch
The rise and drop edge of the waveform changed sharply, the rise edge has spikes. The
higher the capacitance is, the sharper the spike is. While the less of the resistance, the
amplitude will be big, as Fig.7.14 shows.
94
Precautions
1) Connect the Transmitter with the bus or faulty branches, please pay attention to the
polarity, the red is to the Positive bus, the black is to the Negative bus, the green is to
the ground.
2) If there is fixed earth fault line selection device installed to the DC system, it should
power off it when we use the T-DCEFL for the fault detection, and also it is necessary
to take off the alarming relay to increase the detection accuracy.
3) Because the Clamp is with high sensibility, please keep it still, do not move or shake
it. Or, the magnetic field of the earth may influence the testing result.
4) The Receiver will auto power off if there is no operation within 60 minutes, it can
power off if the battery is too low.
5) Battery:- The Receiver is using built-in rechargeable lithium battery, please charge it
when the it is low. It takes 8 hours to charge it. If it is urgently needed, charge it for 10-
15 minutes, it can be operated for 30-50 minutes.
The Clamp uses high capacity alkaline battery, if the battery indication is
lighting, it shows that the battery needs to be replaced.
6) The Clamp cannot power off automatically, please power off it after using. If it cannot
be used for a long time, please take out the battery.
95
Tracing the source of leakage current
This method of measurements identifies the overall leakage and the source. The first
measurement can be made on the main conductor to the panel. Measurements 2, 3, 4 and 5
are made subsequently to identify circuits carrying the larger amounts of leakage current.
If DC earth leakage kit is not available then we can detect the leakage with the help of
tungsten lamp and low range DC ammeter or tong tester.
METHOD :-
If + ve is earthed in system than connect lamp between –ve and ground as shown in fig
7.19, If - ve fault is in system than put lamp between +ve and ground as shown in fig 7.20.
96
+VE
Bulb
-VE
+VE
60/100 W
Bulb
-VE
97
+VE
-VE
Tong tester TC
Tong tester Tong tester Tong tester Tong tester
ANN
Bulb
CLOSING
INDICATION
N
FEEDER 1 FEEDER 2 FEEDER 3 FEEDER 4 FEEDER 5
__________________________________________________________
.
98
CHAPTER-4
TESTING OF NUMERICAL DISTANCE PROTECTION RELAY WITH 3-
Ø SECONDARY INJECTION KIT
Er. Pradeep Raghav Er. Ashish Sharma
Equipments used:
Testing kit – PONOVO, Model PW460, Software – Powertest v2.22
Relay – GE, D-60, version 6.0X
A. COMMUNICATION OF TESTING KIT WITH LAPTOP –
Type of Communication - Ethernet
IP address (Kit Default) - 192.168.1.133
Laptop - IP = 192.168.1.199, Subnet mask = 255.255.255.0
99
Caution - If the DC output of the kit is being used for energizing a relay or anything
then first ensure that the DC terminals of kit are open (not connected) to that equipment as
the difference in voltage rating may affect the equipment.
We can also do the communication check by various other methods like
voltage injection, current injection etc., but since the Aux DC output is seldom used
hence it is preferred for communication check.
√ Possible in
ENERVISTA V.5.3 relay version
1. GE D 60 (straight
& ABOVE 6.0x and
cable) above
√
AGILE V.1.0 &
AREVA P441/442 (straight X
2. ABOVE
cable)
ACCELERATOR √
5. SEL 311C-2 √
QUICKSET (cross cable)
√
6. TOSHIBA GRZ-100 RSM-100 (straight X
cable)
100
C. CONNECTIONS BETWEEN KIT & RELAY –
For testing a distance protection relay, the relay must be provided secondary
injection of current and voltages. The testing kit has terminals for output of current and
voltage. These analog outputs may be connected to a relay via test terminal block (TTB)
or disconnecting type TBs in the panel. Connecting the kit to disconnecting type TBs is
preferred as these are the initial points for CT & PT in the panel. Injecting through these
points, full CT & PT circuit of the panel (up to the relay) is checked.
101
Disconnecting Type Terminal Blocks (TBs) – above
102
Test Plug – compatible with English Electric/ALSTOM make TTB - above
In addition to CT and PT, testing kit contains some output contacts (potential
free or energized) and digital inputs (potential free or energized).
Binary Inputs – These are the hardwired terminals which receive various information
e.g. CB status, Carrier Healthy status , Carrier received , air pressure / spring charged
status, Master trip relay contact etc .These inputs are then used in various logics which
assists protection scheme. So these inputs are tested by extending the station DC to
them sequentially and change in status is examined through software of the relay. Some
of the relays have provision for energizing these contacts through their auxiliary 48 V
DC, but in practice they are not used so correct DC voltage for inputs needs to be
configured.
Binary Output – These are the output contacts of the tripping relays. Some of the
outputs are heavy duty contacts which can be used to trip the CB directly while some are
less rated and are used to energize various trip/auxiliary relays. The binary/digital output
gets energized through various digital signals in the numerical relay or through some
sets of logics. Most of the numerical relays have provision for testing of these contacts
through their software which is called force closing of the binary output. All the binary
outputs have to be checked for proper operation i.e. whether N/O contacts are closing
and N/C contacts are opening using the multimeter.
103
AUX DC output & Binary Inputs Binary Outputs
These outputs and inputs may be used in various tests which will be
explained later in this write-up. A preview of the outputs and inputs available in the kit is
as follows –
104
Caution - Following checks must be done prior to connecting the kit in the panel
wiring –
1. It should be ensured that the disconnecting link is properly opened to isolate yard
connections to panel. Extra care is to be taken for shorting the CT in case of a line
having line side CT and is being fed from transfer breaker.
2. If testing through a TTB, proper isolation of yard and panel must be checked. In CT
terminals, there should be no continuity between yard side terminals and panel side
terminal. In PT terminals, there should be no phase to neutral or phase - phase
voltages present on panel side of TTB. The voltages must be zero at panel side and
normal system voltages at yard side.
3. Digital inputs to be provided in the kit must be checked that whether they are potential
free or energized. Special care must be taken as an energized input may damage the
input card of the kit if not properly programmed. However, it is always better to use
potential free inputs.
4. Inputs and outputs must be checked and to be duly programmed in the kit.
105
Caution - After this we will start current and voltage injection hence, it is necessary to
remove any additional protection which may mal-operate. These protections may
be LBB, overload relay or bus-bar protection etc. Please ensure to remove LBB
links, overload relay links etc., so that operation of any protection in panel under
test does not cause mal-operation to any other feeder.
During this check, we will inject phase-wise voltages and currents from the kit
by following process –
1. Check that the magnitude voltages (Va, Vb & Vc) and currents (Ia, Ib & Ic) are zero
(0) and the phase angles are at balanced positive sequence i.e. 0, -120° & +120°.
2. Start the injection with null voltage and current by pressing run button or F2.
106
3. Check the voltage and current values in the relay. The relay must show zero voltages
and zero currents. These values may be checked on relay screen or at the human
machine interface (HMI) screen in relay software in laptop.
4. Change the magnitude of R-phase voltage as Va = 63.51 <0°
5. Check R-phase voltage in relay. There must be voltage in only R-Ø and rest all
phases must be zero. However, if in the relay only phase-phase voltages are available
on the screen; this will be reflected on the R-Y and B-R phase voltages. Checking
phase – neutral voltages will make it clear.
6. Change the magnitude of Y-Ø voltage as Vb = 63.51 <-120° and check in the relay.
Checking the phase difference along with phase is preferred.
7. Change the magnitude of B-Ø voltages Vc = 63.51 <120° and check in the relay along
with phase difference.
8. Change magnitude of R-Ø current as Ia= 0.2 <0° or any other value as desired. Check
the same in the relay.
9. Change the magnitude of Y-Ø current as Ib= 0.2 <-120°. Check the same along with
phase difference in the relay.
10. Change the magnitude of B-Ø current as Ic = 0.2 <120°. Check the same along with
phase difference in the relay.
11. Stop the injection by pressing stop button or ESC.
During this check, if there is any deflection in any of the six quantities, it may
be checked and eradicated at this point of time only, otherwise it will lead to erroneous
testing and confusing results.
107
E. ZONES REACH TESTING – This is also known as Zone Verification Test or Reach
Accuracy Test. All Numerical DPRs are equipped with 3 Forward Zones and 1 Reverse
zone. Extra Zones may also be there. During this test, currents and voltages are fed
through the testing kit so as to simulate the faults in various zones. Operations of the
relay at maximum reach or at the boundary of the zones are checked and it is verified
that the reach of the relay is as per the settings provided. The operations of the various
binary outputs are tested. This test is carried out at the line angle. This test will be done
to check the different forward and reverse zones of impedance protection.
Since, our CT, PT injection is ready, the impedance protection will be tested
using Z-PHI module under protection mode of the kit. Different types of relays may use
different type of characteristics but testing them with Z-PHI module will not make any
deviation in results because we will do the testing along line angle only. For more
accurate testing, we can take the RIO file (with .rio extension) or predefined templates of
PONOVO kit for each separate relay.
Continuing with the Z-phi module, there is a “Setting” bar at the bottom of test
area as shown in figure –
108
Here, we should fill up the ohmic values in Z <Ø form.
LN Zone1 = LL Zone1=Impedance of zone-1
LN Zone2 = LL Zone2=Impedance of zone-2
LN Zone3 = LL Zone3=Impedance of zone-3
LN Zone4 = LL Zone4=Impedance of zone-4
LN T1 = LL T1= time delay of zone-1 = 0 msec.
LN T2 = LL T2= time delay of zone-2
LN T3 = LL T3= time delay of zone-3
LN T4 = LL T4= time delay of zone-4.
Since, zone 5 is not used in any of the protection; it must be set to any value
with a very high operating delay.
The last value “PHI” is of line angle. The fixed values are as follows –
132 KV → 68.03°
220 KV → 78.69°
400KV → 84.90°
Besides setting bar there is a “parameter” bar, as shown in the figure below.
109
Preferred setting are as follows –
Pre-fault time → 1.0 sec
Post-fault time → 0.100 sec
Trigger Mode → Time
PT at → Line/Bus (whichever is the case)
CT Polarity → Line
CB Sim. → No
Test Mode → Iconst.
K0 number →1
KE given as → K (0), phi (K0) or Z0/Z1
Vz define →0
Iload → 0.20 Amps
Iload ph → 30°
110
ACSR)
K0, Phi K0
1 Resembles to 0.754 <10.07° 0.753 <-0.72° 0.863 <-13.40°
{(Z0-Z1)/3Z1}
Besides parameter bar, there is “Binary” bar in which we can set the digital
inputs and outputs for the relay. The preferred settings are as follows –
111
# ZONE – 1 Testing – Since, only one test point is available, make sure that
checkbox against test point name is ticked (√).
For zone-1 testing, follow the procedure below –
1. Check that IZI =0.98 ᵡ Zeset1. This shows that the fault to be fed will be at the
test point which is 98% of zone-1, PHI= line angle as mentioned in setting menu.
2. Set the fault type → AE, BE, CE, AB, BC or CA.
3. Set the fault time to 0.100 sec (or may be any other value but less than Z-2
delay).
4. Set current = 2 Amps.
5. Set directions as forward (as this is a forward reach zone).
6. Fault mode = Transient
7. Start the test by pressing RUN or F2.
8. Check all the fault indications and fault values on the relay.
9. The fault distance must be equal to 98% of zone-1 reach. (e.g. In most of the
cases zone-1 is 80% of line length so, the fault distance of this test point must be
0.98 ᵡ 0.80 ᵡ line length).
10. Repeat this testing at 98% of zone -1 for rest of phases i.e. B-E, C-E, A-B, B-C,
C-A.
11. Now, we will check the boundary point of Zone-1 by injecting 105% of Zone-1
impedance which is basically a zone-2 fault. But the injection time must be less
than zone-2 delay. So, this will confirm that for a zone- 2 fault, the relay is not
tripping before zone-2 relay.
For this, set IZI = 1.05 ᵡ Zeset1, with rest all setting same.
For this fault the relay must not be for all six faults i.e. AE, BE, CE, AB, BC, CA.
112
12. The results may be tabulated as follows –
Caution – In some relays, while testing 105% fault, SOTF protection may operate. So, it is
advised to disable SOTF if it is operating and enable it positively at the end of testing.
# ZONE – 2 Testing – The same test point of zone-1 will be modified for zone-2
testing. The procedure is as follows –
1. Edit the value of │Z│=0.98 × Zeset2.
2. Change the fault time to (0.100+Z-2 delay) or may be any other but less than Z3
delay.
3. Rest all the setting will be same.
4. Start the testing for all six faults and tabulate the results as mentioned previously.
113
# ZONE – 3 Testing – The procedure is as follows –
1. Edit the value of │Z│=0.98 × Zeset3.
2. Change the fault time to (0.100+Z-3 delay).
3. Reset all setting will be same.
4. Start the testing for all six faults and tabulate as mentioned previously.
Note – SEL relay prefers to use Zone-3 as reverse reach and Zone-4 as longest
forward reach. If this is the case, then for testing of Zone-3, direction must be set to
reverse and fault time must be set to (0.100+Zone-3delay) and Zone-4 to be tested
likewise.
114
In the end of the zone reach testing, this template may be saved so that
during next testing all the setting of parameters can be avoided. For this, click on
“Task” (on the top menu bar) and select “save as template file (F)” rename the file
with extension “.tpl” and save in the required folder.
F. CARRIER AIDED TRIPPING TEST – Distance protection is a three stepped protection
in which Z1 reach is normally set to be 80 % of the main line. Remaining 20% of the line
is covered in Z2 which is a time delayed protection. In order to reduce the time of the
operation carrier aided protection is used.
When the fault is within the line A-B but out of the reach of zone-1 of end A, it will be in
zone-1 reach of remote end B, hence, remote end relay will send a permissive carrier
command to end A.
Under Permissive Under Reach (PUR) scheme the relay at end B sends the
signal (as the fault is in zone 1) to end A and on receipt of the signal from End B and Z2
pick up at end A the relay operates in Z1 time. DPR of end A is waiting for Zone-2 delay
to elapse and then trip it in zone-2, but as soon as carrier command is received, end A
also trips the breaker instantaneously, hence clearing the fault.
This protection is based on the principle that “if the fault is within the line then
why zone-2 delay?”
For testing of this protection the steps are as follows –
1. Energize the carrier receive input of the relay using output contact of the kit or
external shorting lead. For using output contact of the kit , in the Binary setting,
make setting as follows –
Out 1 = close
Output mode = time
Output time = 0.050 (50 msec)
Output hold time= 0.050 (50 msec)
DC +ve must be connected to Terminal-1 of output -1. Terminal-2 must be
connected to carrier receive input of the relay.
115
2. Inject a zone-2 fault with delay less than zone-2 delay. The condition of 105% of
zone-1 for 0.100 msec can be used.
3. For this fault, the relay must trip and the indications (LED, facia annunciator)
must be checked likewise.
4. Feedback timer may be used to check whether the relay is tripping before zone-2
delay. Settings for feedback timer are as follows –
In Binary setting bar, set Binary input 1 as Trip ABC and connect a potential free
contact of DPR or 86 Master Trip relay Input-1 of the kit.
Binary In.1 = Trip ABC, Trip Sel. = 1234
5. This test must for all phases - AE, BE, CE, AB, BC & CA.
G. SWITCH ON TO FAULT (SOTF) TEST – This protection is provided to trip the line as
soon as the line is charged to a persisting fault. Numerical relays have different logics for
SOTF condition. But the essential condition is closing of the line and rise of the current
and/or Z2 pick up. For testing of SOTF this condition is simulated by feeding a Z2 fault or
over current condition and creating the condition of line charging utilizing the binary
inputs for this purpose.
If a line is charged from end A and there is a fault persisting in the line, either it will fall in
Zone-1 reach or it will fall in the remaining section which is in Zone-2 reach from end A.
Hence, this test is checked for both Zone-1 and Zone-2.
The process is as follows –
1. Energize the “CB close” input signal of the relay using kit output contact or TNC
switch or external shorting. Settings for binary output are mentioned previously.
Set output time= 0.00 sec, Set output hold time= 0.100 sec
2. Inject a Zone-1 fault with fault time of 0.100 sec (or less than zone-2).
3. Check for indications of SOTF operated along with trip time via feedback using
binary inputs.
4. Inject a Zone-2 fault with delay less than Zone-2 delay.
5. Check for indications of SOTF operated along with trip time via feedback using
binary inputs.
116
H. AUTO-RECLOSE OPERATION AND LOCKOUT TESTING – Experience reveals that
the majorities of the faults is single phase to ground faults and are of transient nature.
So, complete isolation of the line for such types of the faults will cause interruption of the
power. Hence, it is an established practice to give one attempt for closing after dead time
and tripping for successive / permanent fault. This is known as single phase single shot
auto-reclosing feature and is adopted for 400 and 220 kV lines. This test should be
carried out when all other tests have been carried out including tripping of the CB and
pole wise operation of the breaker. Auto-reclose operation is programmed to counter
transient faults present in the line. This protection activates whenever a zone-1 phase-to-
ground fault occurs in the system.
To test this protection, two terms have to be understood first. They are –
1. Dead time – As the relay senses a zone-1 phase-to-ground fault, it operates
instantaneously and trips the faulty phase only. After some time a close
command is given by the relay which closes the breaker. This time duration
between generation of trip command for faulty phase and generation of close
command is Dead time.
Generally, Dead time= 1sec (1000 msec).
2. Reclaim time – When close command is given by the relay, the tripped pole
closes and the relay senses “All poles ON” condition through auxiliary contacts.
Now, if any type of fault (even a phase-to-ground fault of zone-1) comes again
within a specified period of time, the relay gives a 3-∅ trip command and makes
all 3-poles of the CB to OFF condition.
This specific time is known as Reclaim time.
Generally, reclaim time = 25sec.
117
6. Only one pole of the CB must get opened.
7. There is an auto-reclose switch in the panel which has two positions IN or OUT.
This switch must be IN for successful auto-reclosure.
8. There is a carrier IN/OUT switch. This must be in IN condition. Sometimes carrier
healthy/fail and carrier IN conditions are clubbed together.
9. Absence of any other auto-reclose block condition e.g. Operation of B/U relay,
B/B operation, Phase to phase operation, SOTF operation etc.
118
Testing procedure for Auto-reclose for new spare relays during commissioning or
programming –
119
7. The trip output will get activated and hence coil A operates.
8. This opens the contact and the relay senses that the R-∅ pole got opened.
9. After Dead time, the Auto-reclose close output closes and operates coil B.
10. The NO contact becomes close and the R-∅ pole status is again active which
confirms the Auto-reclose condition.
11. If the coil B is not operating after Dead time, either the relay is not giving 1-∅ trip
command (providing a 3-∅ definite trip) or it is not giving a close command. This
must be checked by oscillography and correction in settings must be done.
12. Similar tripping must be checked for Y-∅ and B-∅.
13. After testing for all 3 phases a lockout command must also be checked to trip all 3
poles of the CB.
I. Power Swing Blocking (PSB) Test – Power Swing Blocking is a function which blocks
the operation of the relay in between a definable impedance range. This function senses
the rate of change of impedance during a fault and when the impedance crosses the
outer boundary, it resets. Generally, PSB blocks the operation of DPR in Zone-2 & Zone-
3 and trips in Zone-1. A descriptive figure is as follows –
120
As the figure shows, power swing may be set in a Two-step mode or Three-
step mode.
For testing of this feature, State sequence (4V, 3I) module under Basic mode is used.
121
The procedure for testing is as follows –
1. Add the number of states using “ADD” button in the test panel.
2. For a Two-step PSB, keep 3 no. states as follows –
a. Outside outer circle,
b. Between outer and inner,
c. Inside inner circle.
3. For a Three-step PSB, keep 4 no. states as follows –
d. Outside outer circle,
e. Between outer and middle,
f. Between middle and inner
g. Inside inner circle.
4. Now, referring to the settings provided in the relay, the impedance and time
delays will be set in each state.
5. Click on the first state in the test panel and then open “Fault Cal” menu.
6. Set the fault type as required: AE, BE, CE, AB, BC, CA.
7. Feed the impedances in Z-phi form or R-X form. This impedance must be more
than the outer circle impedance.
8. Set test mode as “I constant”.
9. Set test current as 2 Amps or any appropriate value.
10. Set I-load = 0.2 Amps, with some power angle (say 30°). This will be the load
current in rest of the phases.
11. Set earth fault compensation if the fault fed is a phase-to-earth fault as mentioned
previously. Click OK
12. Now, the respective values of secondary voltages and currents will be shown
automatically.
122
13. Check frequency to be 50 Hz.
14. Trigger mode is “Time”.
15. Set duration as 5 sec to 10 sec.
16. Set ext. time to 0.00 sec. Settings for first state are complete.
17. For second state, click on the name of second state and open Fault Cal menu.
18. Set the impedance value between outer circle and inner circle. Rest all values will
be same. Click OK.
19. Set duration of the fault equal to or more than the delay provided in the relay
setting.
20. Similarly, set the states for other PSB zones.
21. After setting all states, click on the first state and start the Test. This will inject the
impedances in predefined states for given duration.
22. Operation may be checked by taking feedback timer and configured LEDs.
J. Load Encroachment test – This feature indicates the condition of increasing load with
decrease in voltage.
123
It must be checked that the reach of load encroachment impedance is kept more
than longest forward reach (Zone-3). Generally, 80% of voltage and 120% of current
values at an angle of 30° are taken for impedance calculation. For testing of this feature,
State sequence (4V, 3I) module under Basic mode is used.
124
The procedure for testing is as follows –
1. By default, two states are present – Prefault and Fault. In prefault state, feed
balanced voltages and balanced currents for a delay of 5 sec to 10 sec.
2. In the fault state, open the Fault Cal menu and provide impedance less than
provided in the relay setting.
3. If in the relay, the setting is not in the impedance form, the secondary voltages
and current values may be set and injected for a particular duration.
4. If in the relay, the settings are not in the impedance form, normal three phase
voltage and current are fed to the relay. The current of the relay is increased to
1.2 times and voltage is reduced to 0.80 p.u. at an angle of 30 Deg Lag. The
relay should not operate at this loading condition. The relay must operate on
increase in current and decrease in voltage.
5. Feedback timer must be taken to check the actual time of operation and must be
compared with the time provided in the relay settings.
K. Broken conductor test – If in a live line, one phase conductor gets broken and it is well
beyond any fault creating condition, there will be no indication of the fault. Only, the
current of that particular phase will become zero due to open circuit. But, this condition
will generate negative sequence currents in the line.
125
The relay setting for broken conductor feature is nothing but a negative
sequence over-current element with a timer feature. For testing of this feature, Quick test
(4V, 3I) module under Basic mode is used.
The procedure for testing is as follows –
1. Set the voltages to normal balanced voltages as follows –
Va = 63.51 <0°, Vb = 63.51 <-120°, Vc = 63.51 <120°
2. Set the currents of all three phases to zero and the angles must be positive
sequence as 0°, -120° & 120°.
3. In the “Quantity” menu, select any two phase currents say Ia, Ib.
4. Set step = 0.1 Amp.
5. Now, run the test and keep increasing the set value of currents using up and
down arrows (on keyboard) / buttons (on test panel).
6. The value at which the broken conductor operates is the approximate value of
when one phase gets open circuited.
126
3. Set the known value of pickup as the step value.
4. Select Quantity as Ia, Ib, Ic and Run the test.
5. Lock the present test values by clicking on the lock icon in the test panel.
6. Increase the current values to the set pickup value using up arrows of keyboard
or up button in the test panel. The values may be seen in the magnitude.
7. Unlock the test panel to inject the changed values.
8. The timer will start increasing and will stop as soon as the feedback is received.
6. The indication may be checked and the delay shown by the feedback timer must
be checked to be in accordance to the delay provided in the setting.
L. VT Fuse Fail Test – Numerical relays have different logics for ascertaining the condition
of fuse fail. Under this condition the relays are programmed to block the operation of
impedance protection, otherwise there may be false operation in case of any fuse fail or
loose connection. Three phase current and voltages are fed to the relay and one of the
voltage say of R phase is reduced to simulate the condition of the fuse fail to check that
the VTFF element of the relay operates to block the operation of the relay. Some of the
relays use CB auxiliary contact in logic for VTFF.
For testing of this feature, Quick test (4V, 3I) module under Basic mode is
used.
The procedure for testing is as follows –
1. Set the voltages to normal balanced voltages as follows –
Va = 63.51 <0°, Vb = 63.51 <-120°, Vc = 63.51 <120°.
2. Set the currents of all three phases to 0.2 Amps as follows –
Ia = 0.2 <0°, Ib = 0.2 <-120°, Ic = 0.2 <120°.
3. In the “Quantity” menu, select voltage of any phase say Va.
4. Set step = 30 volts or a greater value may be taken.
5. Run the test.
6. Lock the present test values by clicking on the lock icon in the test panel.
7. Decrease the voltage value using down arrows of keyboard or down button in the
test panel. The values may be seen in the magnitude.
8. Unlock the test panel to inject the changed values.
9. The timer will start increasing and will stop as soon as the feedback is received.
127
voltages at other end increase remarkably due to Ferranti effect. However, this
protection may also be available as stand-alone external relays; most of the Numerical
relays also do have the feature for this protection. This protection may be provided in
phase-to-earth, phase-to-phase or 3-phase mode, along with or without a delay.
For testing of this feature, Quick test (4V, 3I) module under Basic mode is
used.
The procedure for testing is as follows –
10. Set the voltages to normal balanced voltages as follows –
Va = 63.51 <0°, Vb = 63.51 <-120°, Vc = 63.51 <120°.
11. Set the currents of all three phases to 0.2 Amps (or any other load current) as
follows
Ia = 0.2 <0°, Ib = 0.2 <-120°, Ic = 0.2 <120°.
12. In the “Quantity” menu, select voltage of any phase say Va (in case of phase-to-
earth mode), or any two phases say Va, Vb (in case of phase-to-phase mode), or
all the 3 phases Va, Vb, Vc (for 3-∅ mode).
13. Set step = “x” volts. This “x” may be calculated as follows –
e.g, the setting is for 110% of Phase-phase voltage with a delay of 4 sec. Then,
Quantity = (Va,Vb) or (Vb, Vc) or (Vc, Va)
Step = (110% X 63.51) – (63.51) = 6.4 Volts.
14. Run the test.
15. Lock the present test values by clicking on the lock icon in the test panel.
16. Increase the voltage value using up arrows of keyboard or up button in the test
panel. The values may be seen in the magnitude.
17. Unlock the test panel to inject the changed values.
18. The timer will start increasing and will stop as soon as the feedback is received.
________________________________________________________________
128
CHAPTER-5
Equipments used:
Testing kit – PONOVO, Model PW460, Software – Powertest v2.22
Relay – GE, T-60, version 6.0X
129
The process is as follows –
1. Set all three phases of current output -1 to the value calculated as explained later.
2. Set all three phases of current output -2 to the value calculated as explained later.
Maintain proper phase difference as per the case between the two currents as
explained later.
3. Run the test.
4. The relay must show the primary or secondary currents on the screen or software
HMI. The values must be confirmed to be in order.
5. This is a no-trip condition and the same must be confirmed.
130
Any other set of currents may also be used but care must be taken for the
Transformation Ratio and CT Ratio on both sides. LV side currents are shifted by 180° to
maintain Transformer action.
131
current during the normal transformer operation: errors due to CT inaccuracies and
current variation due to on-load tap changer operation. Generally, pick-up = 0.15 to
0.25.
Caution – In some relays, while testing differential protection, REF protection may operate if
used as a low impedance REF. So, it is advised to disable REF if it is operating and
enable it positively at the end of testing. Similarly, disable other elements which
may operate and take utmost care to enable them at the end of testing.
To conduct the test, Quicktest (4V, 6I) module under Basic mode may be used.
HV Pick-up
1. Set all three phases of current output-1 and output-2 to zero.
2. In the Quantity tab set the parameter as Ia, so that only HV side current increases.
3. Step = 0.01 Amps.
4. Run the test.
5. Increase the value of R-∅ current by up arrow in keyboard or up button on test
panel.
6. Note the current at which the relay trips.
7. Similarly test for Y-∅ and B-∅.
8. The results may be tabulated as follows –
132
Differential Currents Restrained currents
Current
HV Pick-up
Injected
Id-R∅ Id-Y∅ Id-B∅ Ir-R∅ Ir-Y∅ Ir-B∅
Current
injection on
HV R-∅
Current
injection on
HV Y-∅
Current
injection on
HV B-∅
LV Pick-up
1. Set all three phases of current output-1 and output-2 to zero.
2. In the Quantity tab set the parameter as Ia’, so that only LV side current increases.
3. Step = 0.01 Amps.
4. Run the test.
5. Increase the value of R-∅ current by up arrow in keyboard or up button on test
panel.
6. Note the current at which the relay trips.
7. Similarly, test for Y-∅ and B-∅.
8. The results may be tabulated as follows –
Check – To check that the value of injected current at which the relay is tripping,
calculations are as follows:-
Iinjected = 1.5 X (Full load current ÷ CT Ratio) X pick-up setting. (for 1-∅ current injection).
Iinjected = (Full load current ÷ CT Ratio) X pick-up setting. (for 3-∅ current injection).
133
F. DIFFERENTIAL SLOPE TEST – When an external fault causes a heavy current to
flow through the protected zone, differences in the magnetic characteristics of the
current transformers on both sides undergo the conditions of saturation and may cause
a significant current flow through the differential measuring element coil. If it is greater
than the respective pickup threshold, the device can trip even though no fault occurred
in the protected zone. Current restraint (stabilisation) prevents such erroneous
operation. In differential protection systems for protected objects with two terminals, a
restraining quantity is normally derived from the current difference |I1 – I2| or from the
arithmetical sum |I1| + |I2|. Both methods are equal in the relevant ranges of the
stabilisation characteristics. For protected objects with more than two ends, such as
multi-winding transformers, busbars etc, only the arithmetical sum method is possible.
For 2 measuring points, tripping or differential current is –
Idiff = |I1 + I2|, and the stabilisation or restraining current Istab = |I1| + |I2|.
The current sum definition is extended for more than 2 measurement locations, example
of a three-winding power transformer with 4 measuring locations,
Idiff = |I1 + I2 + I3 + I4|
Istab = |I1| + |I2| + |I3| + |I4|
Idiff is derived from the fundamental frequency current and produces the tripping effect
quantity, Istab counteracts this effect.
To conduct the test, Quicktest (4V, 6I) module under Basic mode may be used.
134
2. Set all three phases of current output -2 to zero.
3. In the Quantity tab set the parameter as Ia’. This will increase the current for LV
winding only.
4. Step = 0.01 Amps.
5. Set the value of Ia to a random value. (preferably 0.5 to 1.0)
6. Set the value of Ia’ according to transformation ratio and CT ratio alongwith proper
phase angles to have a stabilized condition
7. Run the test.
8. Increase or decrease the value of LV R-∅ current (Ia’) by up arrow in keyboard or
up button on test panel.
9. Note the current at which the relay trips.
10. Similarly test for Y-∅ and B-∅.
11. The results may be tabulated as shown previously.
Check – To check that the relay has tripped in the slope-1 region, the ratio of differential
current to restraining current during tripping must be calculated. This must be equal
to the slope value.
Slope = (Differential current ÷ Restraining current).
Generally, Slope-1 = 20% and Slope-2 = 50%.
135
6. Increase the value of R-∅ current by up arrow in keyboard or up button on test
panel.
7. Unlock the test values.
8. Similarly test for Y-∅ and B-∅ and for LV side as well.
To conduct the test, Quicktest (4V, 6I) module under Basic mode may be
used. The process is as follows –
1. Set all three phases of current output -1 to zero.
2. Set all three phases of current output -2 to zero.
3. In the Quantity tab set the parameter as Ia’, Ib’, Ic’. This will increase all the three
current for LV winding simultaneously.
4. Step = 0.1 Amps.
5. Click on the frequency tab. A new window will open as follows –
136
7. Change frequencies of Ia’, Ib’, Ic’ to 100 Hz i.e. 2 nd harmonic.
8. On the relay terminals, take out current output-2 from LV winding and connect it in
parallel to current output-1 (phase-wise) so that both current sources feed only HV
winding.
9. Set all the six currents to 1 Amps value as follows –
Ia = 1.0 <0°, 50 Hz Ia’ = 1.0 <0°, 100 Hz
Ib = 1.0 <-120°, 50 Hz Ib’ = 1.0 <-120°, 100 Hz
Ic = 1.0 <120°, 50 Hz Ic’ = 1.0 <120°, 100 Hz
10. Decrease the set quantities using down arrow/button.
11. The relay must not trip until the 100 Hz current magnitude comes down to 0.2
Amps. This shows 2nd harmonic blocking upto 20%.
137
stabilisation during dynamic conditions are not necessary. This setting is provided to
block the differential protection during overexcitation. When the 5th harmonic level
exceeds the specified setting (5th harmonic ratio) the differential element is blocked.
The overexcitation inhibit may work on a per-phase basis or combined 3 phase basis.
Generally, 5th harmonic setting = 40%.
To conduct the test, Quicktest (4V, 6I) module under Basic mode may be used. The
process is as follows –
1. Set all three phases of current output -1 to zero.
2. Set all three phases of current output -2 to zero.
3. In the Quantity tab set the parameter as Ia’, Ib’, Ic’. This will increase all the three
current for LV winding simultaneously.
4. Step = 0.1 Amps.
5. Click on the frequency tab. A new window will open as follows –
138
8. On the relay terminals, take out current output-2 from LV winding and connect it in
parallel to current output-1 (phase-wise) so that both current sources feed only HV
winding.
9. Set all the six currents to 1 Amps value as follows –
Ia = 1.0 <0°, 50 Hz Ia’ = 1.0 <0°, 250 Hz
Ib = 1.0 <-120°, 50 Hz Ib’ = 1.0 <-120°, 250 Hz
Ic = 1.0 <120°, 50 Hz Ic’ = 1.0 <120°, 250 Hz
10. Decrease the set quantities using down arrow/button.
11. The relay must not trip until the 250 Hz current magnitude comes down to 0.4
Amps. This shows 5th harmonic blocking upto 40%.
139
The maximum of the three phase-to-phase voltages is decisive for the
calculation. The overexcitation protection includes two definite time stages. As soon as a
threshold (warning stage U/f >) has been exceeded, the pickup indication is output and a
timer starts. A warning message is transmitted subsequently to the expiration of this
timer. This is used as V/f Alarm. As soon as a second threshold (warning stage U/f >>)
has been exceeded, another pickup indication is output and a timer T U/f >> starts. A trip
command is issued subsequent to the expiration of this timer. This is used as V/f Trip.
140
23. Run the test.
24. Lock the present test values by clicking on the lock icon in the test panel.
25. Increase the voltage value using up arrows of keyboard or up button in the test
panel. The values may be seen in the magnitude.
26. Unlock the test panel to inject the changed values.
27. The timer will start increasing and will stop as soon as the feedback is received.
141
8. Unlock the test panel to inject the changed values.
9. The timer will start increasing and will stop as soon as the feedback is received.
142
143
REF on an earthed transformer winding - above
REF on an earthed shunt reactor with CTs in the reactor leads - above
144
REF on an earthed auto-transformer – above
Testing of Low impedance REF – The testing of low impedance REF is just an overcurrent
test on the NCT terminals of the relay. The testing of this feature is very simple as
compared to the concept. For testing of this feature, Quick test (4V, 3I) module under
Basic mode is used. The procedure for testing is as follows –
7. Connect the current output of the kit to the REF NCT terminals in the relay.
8. Set the currents of all three phases to zero.
9. In the “Quantity” menu, select the phase currents of which the terminals are
connected in Step-1.
10. Set step = 0.01 Amp.
11. Now, run the test and keep increasing the set value of currents using up and
down arrows (on keyboard) / buttons (on test panel).
12. The value at which the REF operates must be checked with the setting provided,
keeping the CT ratio in mind.
145
146
Testing of High impedance REF – The testing of high impedance REF is also done by
injecting current terminals of the relay. Only care to be taken is to bypass/short the
stabilizing series resistance. For testing of this feature, Quick test (4V, 3I) module under
Basic mode is used. The procedure for testing is as follows –
1. Connect the current output of the kit to the terminals in the relay.
2. Set the currents of all three phases to zero.
3. In the “Quantity” menu, select the phase currents of which the terminals are
connected in Step-1.
4. Set step = 0.01 Amp.
5. Now, run the test and keep increasing the set value of currents using up and
down arrows (on keyboard) / buttons (on test panel).
6. The value at which the REF operates must be checked with the setting provided,
keeping the CT ratio in mind.
147
148
149
150
Annexure-II – Sample characteristics for SIEMENS relay –
151
Annexure-III – Sample characteristics for P64X relays –
152
CHAPER-6
LBB PROTECTION
Er. P.K. Gargava
Method B
-Similar test is performed on BB scheme logic relay
Note:- Use re-trip feature of scheme if it is available in scheme time setting for re-trip can me
100ms.
153
CHAPTER-7
BUS-BAR PROTECTION
Er. P.K. Gargava
In our system nowadays we are using numerical Bus-bar protection scheme. The
scheme is comprising of 3 nos. single phase low impedance BB differential relays. The bus-
bar scheme is also having separate LBB element or it can be used for giving signals to
tripping relays when LBB initiation command is received.
The BB relays are tested phase wise. The numerical test kits which we are using are
having 6 current outputs. The following tests are to be carried out on BB scheme:-
1. Differential pickup, bias test and Directional feature of relay for each phase
2. Stability test of all feeders phase wise
3. BB operation for Bus-1, Bus-2, Transfer bus and check zone.
4. CT selection incomplete
5. CT switching
6. CT ALARM for bus-1
7. BUS-1 & Bus-2 Interconnected
8. Voltage block feature
9. LBB operation
1. Differential pick up and bias test is tested by procedure given in testing of Diff
relay. Current can be injected in input terminal of any one feeder.
NON-OPERATION MODE
154
100 deg
BUS-1 FDR-3 0.5 Amp Angle N
100 deg
OPERATION MODE
Before testing keep voltage input below set limit say 90% or disable voltage block
feature of scheme:-
Bus tie current will show import in Bus-1 and export in Bus-2. The direction is
dependent on CT connections. If showing reverse and both bus are in unstable
condition then injected current angle is to be changed from 0 Degree to 180 degree.
This stability test is to be performed for all feeders.
4. Operation of BB relay
BUS-1 or ZONE-1
Inject current as under as under:-
FDR Name of feeder Current BB operation Tripping
connected on injected
Bus
Bus-1 FDR-1 1.0 Amp Angle Bus-1 or Zone- Y
0 deg 1 will operate
155
BUS-1 FDR-2 1.0 Amp Angle Y
0 deg
BUS TIE FDR-3 2.0 Amp Angle Y
180 deg
BUS-2 FDR-4 1.0 Amp Angle N
0 deg
BUS-2 FDR-5 1.0 Amp Angle N
0 deg
BUS-2 or ZONE-2
Inject current as under as under:-
FDR Name of feeder Current BB operation Tripping
connected on injected
Bus
Bus-1 FDR-1 3.0 Amp Angle Bus-2 or Zone- N
0 deg 2 will operate
BUS-1 FDR-2 1.0 Amp Angle N
0 deg
BUS TIE FDR-3 2.0 Amp Angle Y
0 deg
BUS-2 FDR-4 1.0 Amp Angle Y
0 deg
BUS-2 FDR-5 1.0 Amp Angle Y
0 deg
A. CT Selection Incomplete:
In stable BB change the Bus of any feeder from Bus-I to Bus II or Bus-II to Bus-I by
selection of bus isolator switch. The CT selection incomplete alarm will appear. Bus-1 & Bus-
2 will pick up but Check Zone will not Pickup.
156
This feature is very important but setting should not be very low. Keep voltage healthy
and test BB for fault. It will not operate or will not issue trip command. Then reduce
voltage below setting value say 90% and test for BB fault condition, now relay will
issue trip command.
E. LBB operation:-
1. If BB is used only for issuing trip command then give initiation on any feeder
of say Bus-I and check that all feeders of Bus-1 and Bus tie master trip relays
will operate.
2. If LBB scheme of BB of is used then with initiation of LBB signal we have
ensure that set current is there in that particular feeder. If current is below set
limit LBB will not operate.
_________________________________________________________________________
157
CHAPTER-8
POWER LINE CARRIER AIDED TRIPPING
Various Carrier protection Schemes are being used for Tripping the circuit
simultaneously from both the ends; for Line Protection, Over voltage Protection,
Hand Tripping, Busbar Protection, LBB Protection.
Distance protection of line is a stepped protection and instantaneous element
(Zone1) covers (usually) 80% of the line.
Thus 40% of line 20% from each end is covered under Zone2 protection and any
fault in this region shall be cleared in Zone2 time from either end.
Carrier protection is a way by which the information of Zone1 f ault for either end is
conveyed to other end for simultaneous tripping from both ends. Simultaneous
tripping allows the sufficient time for arc extension which is prime criteria for
successful Auto-reclosure operation from both ends.
In the absence of carrier tripping, sequential tripping shall take place for faults
beyond Zone1 time causing
1. Fault to be fed from one end up to Z2 time.
2. Re-closure shall be attempted before arc extension resulting in three phases tripping.
158
directional decision or phase selection) and tripping can only take place at the
receiving end, if a transfer tripping signal is being received and the local protection
relay detects a fault in the direction of the protected line. The reception of a spurious
tripping signal caused by interference on the communications channel cannot
therefore give rise on its own to unwanted tripping. On the other hand, a delayed
transfer tripping signal may mean that a fault on the line is tripped in the time of zone
2 instead of un-delayed in zone 1.
High dependability and short transmission time theref ore take priority over security in
a permissive scheme.
The following configuration and settings of the most important parameters are
recommended for all permissive transfer tripping schemes, i.e. under-reaching and
over-reaching distance protection and directional comparison:
Command transmission: a, b (un-coded)
Transmission time: Approx- 12 ms
Security: Step1
Command prolongation: 20 ms
Guard channel (pilot): 100 Baud
Typical applications for direct transfer tripping are breaker back-up protection,
compensator protection and power transformer protection; line protection with direct
transfer tripping would be an exception. The requirements with respect to
transmission time are generally not too demanding.
In the case of direct transfer tripping, the tripping command from the tele-protection
equipment goes directly to the circuit-breaker tripping coil. Thus a spurious tripping
signal resulting either from interference or human error will cause unwanted, usually
three-phase tripping of the line and will block the operation of any auto-reclosure
relay.
159
A genuine transfer tripping signal, on the other hand, must on no account be lost
whether there is interference on the communications channel or not, because then a
line fault would not be isolated with correspondingly serious consequences.
Extremely high security and high dependability are therefore more important than
transmission time for direct transfer tripping.
In order to fulfill these requirements, the Protection Coupler uses coded tripping
signals for direct transfer commands. Coded signals provide the necessary
additional security against incorrect interpretation of speech, audio signals coupled
into the system and incorrect manipulations on the equipment.
The following configuration and settings are recommended for breaker back-up
protections, compensator protection and power transformer protection (but not for
steady-state signals):
160
Permissive under reach scheme
161
Direct trip scheme
Direct trip command is initiated by following incidents
1. Hand tripping
2. LBB operation
3. Bus-bar operation
4. Over voltage relay
The scheme is generally used in 400KV feeders and 220 KV interstate feeders. Two
carrier channels are used to transfer direct trip signals.
____________________________________________________________________
162
CHAPTER-9
Equipments used:
Testing kit – PONOVO, Model PW460, Software – Powertest v2.22
Relays used –
1. Make – AVANA, Model – NPA422 ( Non-directional Relay - 51/51N)
2. Make – JVS, Model – JNP 098 (Directional Relay - 67/67N)
163
Equations for calculation of TMS for IEC Curves -above
164
minimum time) is equal to the time value calculated using the equation of the inverse
characteristic and a current value of 20 times the current setting of the relay.
Following is a table providing the time of operation for different types of
curves. Some of the IDMT Curves correspond to IEC standards and the other are of
IEEE standards.
Above chart shows the time of operation for a current multiplier from 2 times
to 20 times (of set PSM value) with a TMS of 1.0. To get the time of operation at any
other TMS (say “x”), the time must be multiplied by “x” for the corresponding current
multiplier and curve.
Example – If PSM = 100% or 1.0 with TLS = 0.05 in a curve of 1.3 sec NI.
The time of operation for current 5 times the PSM will be –
1.86X0.05 = 0.093 sec or 93 millisec.
It must be noted here that the name of the curve resembles to the time of
operation at Current multiplier = 10 and TLS = 1.0.
Despite being classified as Electromechanical, Static or Numerical (on the
basis of their manufacturing components), the IDMT relays can be classified as Non-
Directional and Directional (on the basis of their principle of operation).
Following are the tests performed on these relays –
1. Pick-up test.
2. Inverse characteristics test.
165
3. High set element test.
4. Directional operation test (on directional relays).
166
Q. INVERSE CHARACTERISTICS TEST – This will be the test for IDMT curve
protection of the relay. This test will be performed separately for Overcurrent and Earth-
fault elements.
167
For testing of this feature, Quicktest (4V, 3I) module under Basic mode is
used.
168
22. The timer will start and will stop as soon the feedback is received on defined and
connected binary input.
23. Check the correctness of this timing. As in this case, the time of operation at 2 times
PSM and TLS = 1 for 3.0 sec NI is 10.03 sec.
So, for TLS = 0.30, it will be 10.03X0.30 = 3.009 sec.
The feedback timer must show a value very close to this value.
24. The results may be tabulated as follows –
O/c fault fed for Time recorded Time recorded Time recorded
R-Y
Y-B
B-R
R-N
Y-N
B-N
169
Electromechanical relays must be tested for TLS = 1.0 as well to check
proper operation of disc, spring and other moving or non-moving parts of the relay.
However, Numerical relays may be tested at service settings only.
A standard format for testing of electromechanical relays is as follows –
170
cleared in less than a definite time. Otherwise, that high current may affect the
transformer feeding the fault. Damage to line equipments is another possibility.
This high-set feature is of a definite minimum time (DMT) type. A very
important aspect is to check the pick-up as well as drop-out of this element. This
element must drop-out as soon as the actuating quantity (current) comes below the
High-set setting. This is necessary for the relays installed at the current source
(transformer incomings) for the fault on a feeder. If the fault has been cleared timely by
feeder relay, then the high-set element of the source relay must drop-out as soon as
possible to avoid any mal-operation.
Following are the images showing the settings for overcurrent highest as
400% for a delay of 100 millisec.
For testing of this feature, State Sequence (4V, 3I) module under Basic mode
must be used.
171
For example, the settings high-set are as follows –
PSM = 400% or 4.0
Delay = 0.10 sec or 100 millisec
172
Remember that this current value must not be much lower than High-set pick-
up value. This will help in checking the accuracy of high-set drop-out.
31. Set the time of this stage to stop by feedback input Trigger condition = Bin. Inputs.
32. Set ext. time to 0.00 sec for all 3 states.
33. After setting all states, click on the first state and start the Test. This will inject the
states in the order and the time of operation and drop-out will be shown on the screen.
34. For settings done in the relay as shown above, the fault and trip state must stop at
around 110 millisec and drop-out must come after approx 20 millisec.
Caution – While testing High-set element the TLS of IDMT element must be
increased to a sufficient value so that the IDMT element doesn’t operate while
testing the High-set feature.
Generally, the angle for directional operation must be set between 30° to 60°.
173
For testing of this feature, Quicktest (4V, 3I) module under Basic mode may
be used. The procedure of testing is as follows –
For a relay having E/f PSM = 0.30, TLS = 0.30, curve 3.0 sec NI.
1. For testing of directional earth-fault feature, set the voltage of faulty phase to a low
value, say 40 Volts to provide polarizing. Rest two phases must be normal –
Va = 40 <0°, Vb = 63.51 <-120°, Vc = 63.51 <120°.
2. Set all the 3 phase currents in the kit to zero –
Ia = 0 <0°, Ib = 0 <-120°, Ic = 0 <120°.
3. Define the binary input for feedback timer under Binary tab. Connect a contact of back-
up relay (preferably potential free) on that timer. Contact of Master trip relay (86) or
Aux. Master trip relay (86X) may also be taken but the feedback timer will show the
time of operation of (back-up relay + master trip relay)
4. For checking the time of operation at 2 times of PSM, make settings as follows –
Quantity = Ia (for a R-phase fault).
174
Step = 0.60 Amps (as 2 times of 0.30 PSM is 0.60 Amps).
5. Run the test with zero current values.
6. Lock the present values by Lock Button.
7. Increase the magnitude of Ia by up arrow/button.
8. Unlock the test panel.
9. The timer will start and will stop as soon the feedback is received on defined and
connected binary input.
10. Check this earth-fault operation for different angles of current. The relay will operate
for 180° in forward direction. This 180° span will depend on the directional angle fed to
the relay. For example, if the directional angle is set to 30°, then the relay will operate
from (30+90) = 120° to (30-90) = -60° or 300°.
11. Similarly check the operations for Y-∅ & B-∅ and overcurrent element as well.
175
176
________________________________________________________
177
CHAPTER-10
EHV CIRCUIT BREAKERS
Er. P.K. Gargava
178
Circuit Breaker grading capacitors have oil filled paper capacitor elements. The
healthiness of the capacitor elements could be checked by measurement of Capacitance
and Tan delta.
Test Procedure:-
Connect LV cable to the middle of the double interrupter. Connect HV cable to the other end
of the Grading capacitor to be tested. The opposite ends of the grading capacitor have to be
grounded using earth switch. Before applying HV, interference is to be nullified using
Interference suppression unit (ISU). Measurements have to be taken in UST Mode only.
Disconnect the HV cable and connect the same to the other grading capacitor and ground
the previous grading capacitor. Now the second grading capacitor is ready for testing.
Standard procedure (as specified by kit supplier) for measuring capacitance and tan delta in
charged switchyard/induced voltage conditions should be followed. Carry out the
measurements in main and reverse mode/polarity and then compute the average value.
Evaluation of Test Results
Increase in the value of tan a will indicate Chemical deterioration due to age and
temperature, including certain cases of acute deterioration due to localized overheating,
Contamination by water, carbon deposits, bad oil, dirt and other chemicals or ionization. The
acceptable value is 0.007 but any increase in tana and any change in capacitance value is
to be analysed.
2. Dew Point Measurement of SF6 Gas
Dew Point is the temperature at which moisture content in SF6 gas/air starts condensing.
Dew Point when measured keeping regulating valve in service at the outlet of dew point kit
to allow required flow rate of gas/air, is called low point at rated pressure of CB.
Dew Point at Atmospheric pressure
Dew point when measured by regulating the gas flow. at the inl et of dew point kit and
keeping outlet regulating valve (if provided) in fully open condition so that flow rate of gas is
maintained as required, is called low point at atmospheric pressure.
Test Equipment
Dew point measuring kit and associated accessories.
Testing Procedure
All the joints/connectors should be dust and moisture free. If required, same should be
cleaned by clean cloth. Dry the joints and pipe by dry air. Make the connections to the kit
from CB pole ensuring that regulating valve is fully closed at the time of connections of the
Dew point kit. By regulating the flow rate of SF6 gas (0.2 liter/min to 0.5 liter/min - ref. IEC
480), the value of dew point is observed till it becomes stable. If the regulating valve is
provided at outlet of the dew point kit then dew point for rated pressures is to be monitored.
179
Evaluation of Test Results
Measurement of Dew point of SF6 gas is an adequate parameter for condition monitoring
SF6 gas in a CB. Dew point measurement of SF6 gas in a CB indicates the change in the
value of dielectric properties of SF6 gas. The dielectric properties of SF6 gas do get
changed with time due to mixing of impurities like moisture; decomposition products of SF6
gas. Typical arrangement for dew point measurement is given in figure below:
180
Measurement of Circuit Breaker Operating Timings including Pre-insertion Timings
To measure Operating Timings of Circuit Breakers to evaluate the operational performance.
Test Equipment
Circuit Breaker Operational Analyzer and associated accessories.
Testing Procedure
It is to be ensured that R, Y, B phase marking cables are connected with the proper place in
the CB analyzer and colour codes are to be maintained for all the three poles of CB. Give
closing command to closing coil of CB and note down the PIR and main contact closing time.
Take the print out from the analyzer. Give tripping command to trip coil-I of CB and note
down the main contact tripping time. Give tripping cOlIDl1and to trip coil-II of CB and note
down the main contact closing time. Note down the timings for 'CO', ‘OC’ and OCO' by
giving respective commands.
Evaluation of Test Results
(a) Closing timings
Closing time of EHV CBs should not exceed 200 ms and discrepancy should not be there
main contacts and PIR contacts. Discrepancy in operating times of PIR and main contacts
should not exceed the permissible limits.
In any case, main contacts should not close prior to closing of PIR contacts and PIR
contacts should not open prior to closing of main contacts. In case, contact bouncing is
observed in operating timings for PIR and main contacts, same is to be rectified.
(b) Tripping timings
Trip time for EHV CBs should not exceed beyond 35 ms. Discrepancy in operating timings
for Pole to Pole and Break to Break should not be allowed beyond permissible limits which is
3.33 ms and 2.5 ms respectively.
In case, operating times of different poles breaks are not within permissible limits,
Dynamic Contact Resistance measurement to be carried out to see the healthiness of main
contacts.
(c) 'CO' timings
CO timings should be within pel111issible limits as specified by different manufacturers.
181
Testing Procedure:-
CB should be in open position, Isolator of both sides of CB should be in open position
and earth switch of one side of CB should be in open position. To ensure proper
connections, Current Connections clamps at CB flanges , proceed as follows:
Incoming and outgoing flanges of CB to be cleaned 'vvith polish paper to remove paint,
oxidation, etc., at points where current clamps are mounted. Select this point of connection,
as close as possible to the end of porcelain insulator to ensure that minimum resistance is
offered by flanges, bolts, termiinal connector, etc.
182
Evaluation of Test Results
Contact resistance of the CB contacts indicates wear out and misalignment of the main
contacts. If the value of contact resistance exceeds the permissible limit, i.e., 150 micro
ohms this could result in overheating of the contacts. Therefore, the problem of high contact
resistance should be attended immediately by making proper alignment of contacts or by
replacing arcing/main contacts.
183
Low Pressure Alarm
Close isolation valve between CB Pole and density monitor. Start releasing SF6 gas from
density monitor till the low pressure gas alarm contacts are actuated which is detected by
Multimeter. Note down the pressure and temperature at which the contacts get actuated.
Operational Lockout Alarm
Continue releasing SF6 gas from isolated zone till the operational lockout alan11 contacts
are actuated which are detected by multimeter. Note down the pressure and temperature at
which the contacts get actuated. Gas is to be taken in to gas evacuating unit and after
checking gas to be filled to the rated pressure in the CB.
184
Reference document is CBIP manual-294
185
_________________________________________________________________________
186
CHAPTER-11
POTENTIAL TRANSFORMERS AND CAPACITIVE VOLTAGE
TRANSFORMER (CVT) TESTING
INTRODUCTION
Voltage transformers (Potential transformers) are used for measurement and
protection. Accordingly, they are either measuring type or protective type voltage
transformers. They may be either single phase or three phase. Voltage transformers are
necessary for voltage directional, distance protections. The primary of voltage transformers
is connected directly to power circuit between phase and ground depending upon rated
voltage and application. The volt-ampers rating of voltage transformers is lesser as of is
power transformer.
Figure (1) & (2) below shows the schematic view as well as the construction of a single stack
CVT. Each CVT consists of a coupling capacitor (CC) which acts as a voltage divider and an
Electro Magnetic Unit (EMU) which transforms the medium voltage to standard low voltage.
Depending on the system voltage the CC can be a single or a multi stack unit. The CC and
the EMU are individually hermetically sealed to ensure accurate performance and high
reliability.
Coupling Capacitor(CC)
The Coupling Capacitor (CC) acts as a voltage divider and converts the system voltage to a
medium voltage.
Electromagnetic Unit
The Electromagnetic Unit (EMU) consists of a medium voltage transformer, compensating
reactor, damping element and surge protection device.
187
The CC unit is mounted on the EMU tank and the insulated earth terminal of the CC (marked
as ‘NHF’ in Fig.1 is also accessible for connecting to power line carrier communication
equipment. A surge arrester across this terminal and earth serves as the surge protection
device. The NHF terminal must always be connected to earth if the CVT is not
connected to carrier equipment.
188
Figure (1) Terminals of CVT
189
TESTING OF PT/CVT
12 Visual Inspection
Prior to any electrical testing, complete a visual inspection on the PT/CVT , its structure,
earthing, etc. to confirm it is fit for testing.
If the PT/CVT is a new installation, confirm that all construction items outlined in the
Construction Tool and manufacturer installation instructions have been completed.
190
Insulation resistance IR Measurement done between:
HV terminal to earth
HV terminal to secondary terminal
Secondary terminal to earth
Each secondary to all other secondary
191
Note: If only Tan Delta values exceeds +0.003 (increase from the pre-commissioning
values) and capacitance values are within acceptable norms, the Test results are to be
reviewed for further action by experts.
15 Ratio Test.
This test is Done to check the whether ratio from Primary to secondary winding is correct
or not. Incorrect ratios can be the result of a number of things such as poor manufacturing,
inappropriate materials or inter-turn winding faults.
Test Procedure
i. Ratio test is also done at the time of Tan Delta Measurement, when HV 10 KV/12
KV Supply is given to HV terminal through Tan Delta Measurement kit at the same
time we can measure the voltage at secondary terminal of PT/CVT i.e at 1a-n,2a-n
& 3a-n using multi meter and check the secondary ratio corresponding to HV
Supply.
j. Ratio test of PT/CVT is also done using Automatic transformer turn ratio tester as
described in Transformer testing section.
k. If Tan Delta Measurement kit and Automatic transformer turn ratio kit is not
available, then ratio test is done by injecting 1-ph AC supply to secondary terminal
of PT/CVT say at 1a-n and measure the voltage at other secondary terminal say at
2a-n & 3a-n using multi meter and repeat the process by giving 1-ph AC supply to
secondary terminal say at 2a-n & 3a-n and measure the voltage at other secondary
terminal respectively. Same voltage at other secondary terminal measured indicate
the correct PT/CVT ratio.
192
16 Online Partial Discharge Testing
Partial discharge (PD) testing is used to find a number of defects within the devise such as
voids in insulation, loose connections, loose nuts and bolts, poor earthing and many other
defects. Online partial discharge testing is a non-intrusive, in service test method that can be
used for early detection of faults. This test is done When PT/CVT is in service and done by
outsource agency.
________________________________________________________________________
193
CHAPETR-12
CURRENT TRANSFORMERS TESTING
Er. P.K. Gargava Er. Pranay Joshi
INTRODUCTION
Current transformers are used for measurement and protection. Current transformer
works on conventional electromagnetic transformer principle and are used to transform high
voltage line current to low standard value. A current transformer is intended to operate
normally with the rated current of the network flowing through the primary winding which is
inserted in series in the network.
The primary winding consists of Aluminum sections accommodated in the tank at the top.
The primary connection can be done using Primary terminal (P1 & P2) available outside on
the side of tank. The secondary winding is of insulated copper wire uniformly wound over
the ring type CRGO toroidal cores. The secondary leads are taken though Condenser
Graded bushing and are terminated in the secondary Box at the base of CT. Secondary
terminal of CT are connected to measuring instruments and relays.
Now Days Current Transformer used are of two Types.
1. Dead Tank Current Transformer : Figure(1) & (2) below show the sectional view
and basic diagram of Dead Tank CT
194
Figure (1) : Sectinal View of Dead Tank CT
195
2. Live Tank Current Transformer: Figure (3) & (4) below show the sectional view
and basic diagram of Live Tank CT
196
Figure (4) :Basic Diagram of Live Tank CT
PRE-COMMISSIONING TESTING OF CT
These test are carried out on CT’s preferably after they are erected and before they are
taken in to service. The tests indicated are sufficient to give us information that the CT is OK
and ready to perform its function as desired.
17 Visual Inspection
Prior to any electrical testing, complete a visual inspection on CT , its structure, earthing, etc.
to confirm it is fit for testing.
If the CT is a new installation, confirm that all construction items outlined in the Construction
Tool and manufacturer installation instructions have been completed.
197
Look for oil leaks, Current transfom1ers are normally filled with oil and have oil
impregnated paper insulation for both primary and secondary winding. Careful
inspection is to be made for any trace of oil leakages. Oil leakages are more prone
through cemented joints or secondary terminal box due to improper sealing of
terminal studs. As CTs have less oil quantity small leakage may lead to exposure of
paper insulation and subsequent moisture absorption. If bellows are provided in CTs,
the position of bellow indicates either leakage of oil or expansion due to internal gas
generation. Both the conditions are serious for the life of the CTs and immediate
action to be initiated for rectification
Confirm oil levels in the oil level indicator are acceptable.
Confirm primary and secondary connections are correct, selection of Correct
secondary ratio is very important, Secondary ratio selection may be achived by
primary connection in case of 132 KV Class CT and by secondary terminal in case of
220 Kv & 400 KV Class CT.
Confirm primary and secondary earthing is in place and correct
Caution:
Confirm the shorting of secondary terminal of the core , which is not to be
used at the time of commissioning
Tan Delta point shall always be connected to earth. Mechanical Integrity of the
earthing of Tan delta Point with earth shoul be ensured.
19 Ratio Test.
This test is carried out to verify that there is no damage to the CT winding during transit
and also to ascertain that the CT ration is correctly chosen.
198
Test Procedure
l. Ratio test of CT is also done using Automatic transformer turn ratio tester as
described in Transformer testing section.
m. If Automatic transformer turn ratio kit is not available, then ratio test is done by
Primary current injection PI kit as shown in figure(14) below. The current of max.
possible value of rated current is passed through the primary winding and the
current in the secondary shall be measured using multi meter/clamp meter. The
current in the secondary shall be equal to the primary current divided by the CT
ratio.
Note: During Ratio Test When current is measured at secondary terminal keep the
other secondary terminal shorted
20 Polarity Test
The DC voltage test momentarily imposes a small DC voltage on one side of a C.T and the
direction of the momentary deflection of a mille-ammeter on the opposite side of the CT is
noted and compared with polarity marks. Figure(15) below show the arrangement for polarity
test
199
Figure (15) Arrangment for Polarity Test
The d. c. source, a dry cell or storage battery of 4-6 V is connected in series with the primary
winding of the CT through switch. The positive pole of the battery is connected to the P1
terminal of the primary winding and the negative pole to the P2 terminal end of the primary.
While closing and then opening switch, watch the indicating instrument connected across the
secondary winding to see in which direction its pointer deflects.
Evaluation of Test Results
When the primary circuit is closed, the pointer deflects to the right and then deflects to the
left when the circuit is broken. It is a sign of like polarity (and correct marking) of the CT
primary and secondary terminals, one of the which connected to the positive pole of the
battery, the other to the positive terminal of the indicating instrument
200
Disconnect CT Tan Delta Point from earth.
Ensure about the proper cleaning of insulator surface
Connect HV lead of Tan Delta measurement kit to Primary terminal of CT and LV
lead of Tan Delta measurement kit to Tan Delta Point of CT
Measurement has to be taken in UST Mode between primary terminal and Test Tap
201
Between Secondary to Earth at 500 V
Between of secondary’s at 500 V
Test Procedure
Ensure about the proper cleaning of insulator surface, it should be dust and moisture
free
Make the measurement of dry day since moist day measurement are not consistent
Connect HV lead & LV lead of Insulation tester at desired terminal as described
above and take the reading for 1 min at specified voltage range.
Evaluation of Test Results
Changes in the normal IR value of CT indicate abnormal conditions such as presence of
moisture, dirt, dust, crack in insulator of CT and degradation of insulation. Changes in the IR
value of CT are also based on the weather conditions. It is advised to Carry out IR
measurement during summer and dry weather preferably. Insulation Resistance changes
with deterioration in insulating properties. Absolute value of IR is important to monitor but the
rate of change is equally important. The value of IR should not be less than 1000 M ohms If
readings of IR increase with time, the insulation is good. However, if readings remain same
over the time span, insulation is contaminated.
202
Figure (16) PD Test Result of 400 KV Class CT
Top Part is the data of Aquastic Emission AE Sensor & Bottom Part is the data of High
Frequency Current Transforemer HFCT Sensor
Observation : OK
Note:- No PD activities In above Data.
203
CHAPTER-13
SURGE ARRESTERS
Er. P.K. Gargava
Surge arrester plays a very vital role in improving power system reliability by diverting surges
to earth and thus protecting costly switchyard equipments. Proper insulation coordination is
necessary for enhancing life span of costly substation equipments. Since surge arresters
protect other equipments therefore monitoring the health of surge arrester is essential. Surge
arresters are monitored basically using three tests to evaluate its condition.
a. Leakage current monitoring
b. insulation resistance measurement
c. Thermo vision
Out of these, leakage current measurement and the thermovision scanning are on-line
measurement and shut down is required for IR measurement. As system availability is
crucial for utilities, more emphasis is to be given for on-line measurements.
Leakage Current Measurement
As per IEC-60099(5), techniques for the health monitoring of surge arresters in service the
following condition monitoring methods are suggested:
• Total leakage current measurement
• Watt loss measurement
• Insulation resistance measurement
• Third harmonic resistive current monitoring.
• Third harmonic resistive current (THRC) monitoring with compensation for third harmonics
in system voltage.
Total leakage current measurement is not sensitive to the deterioration of the arrester
discs as total leakage current measurement do not indicate severity of ZNO disc degradation
as resistive current is only 20-30% of the total leakage current and a sharp increase in
resistive current due to degradation of arresters discs do not affect the total leakage current
considerably. Watt loss measurement is a useful method but it involves a separate voltage
source and test results are affected by phase shifts introduced by CVT/PT. The harmonics
present in the system voltage may create capacitive harmonic currents, which may be
comparable with the harmonic current generated by the non-linear resistance of the surge
arrester. As a result, the error in the measured harmonic current may be considerable. The
error in the measured third harmonic current may be up to l00% with 1 % third harmonic
present in the system voltage. Hence, reliable monitoring of surge arresters is possible
through such test kits which provide for compensation for harmonics present in the system
voltage.
Testing Principle
204
The zinc oxide elements discs are made by mixing zinc oxide with small amount of additive
materials. The equivalent circuit of surge arrester is parallel combination of capacitance and
variable resistance (as shown in figure).
The current flowing through the zinc oxide discs is the total leakage current (IT )is having
capacitive leakage Current (Ic) and resistive leakage current (IR) components. Normal
operating voltages causes ageing of ZnO discs whereas switching/ lightning over voltages
may cause over loading of all or part of the ZnO blocks. The increase in resistive leakage
current (IR) due to above reasons may bring the arrester to thermal instability and may result
in complete arrester breakdown. Hence, monitoring of leakage resistive current (IR) is very
important.
Harmonics are created in leakage current on application of fundamental frequency, due
to non-linear voltage-current characteristic of surge arresters. Third harmonic is the largest
harmonic component of the resistive current. Third harmonic in system voltage creates
capacitive harmonic Currents which affect the measured value.
Test Procedure
The measurement principle is based on the fact that harmonics are created in the
leakage current by non-linear voltage-current (V-I) characteristics of surge arrester. Resistive
current consists of fundamental, third harmonic, fifth harmonic and seventh harmonic
components. The harmonic current depends on the magnitude of the resistive current and
on the degree of Non-linearity of the voltage-current (V -I) characteristics. The harmonic
content also varies with the voltage and temperature of the surge arrester.
The third harmonic is the largest harmonic component of the resistive current and is most
commonly used for diagnostic measurements. No reference is needed for measurement of
third harmonic resistive current since it is assumed that all harmonics arise from the
nonlinear resistive current. The conversion from harmonic to resistive current level, if
required, relies on information supplied by surge arrester manufacturer or from
measurements in the laboratory. Basic principle of this technique lies in the measurement of
third harmonic resistive current duly compensated for third hamonics present in system
205
voltage. A trend analysis of the 3rd harmonic resistive current is necessary to observe
periodical changes due to normal/abnormal ageing. Sudden rise in THRC or very high value
of third harmonic resistive current indicates degradation of ZnO discs and
inspections/corrective actions are required to be taken in advance to prevent catastrophic
failures .
Method of THRC Measurement
The total current (h) through the Surge Arrester having Capacitive component (Ic) and
Resistive current (IR) flows through the Leakage Current Monitor. The IR component has 3 rd,
5th harmonic and other harmonic present in it. However, when degradation of ZnO discs
occur, the variation of 3rd Harmonic Resistive Current is more pronounced than other
harmonics currents, total current (IT) and total capacitive current (Ic). ,
The connection arrangement for the instrument is quite simple as shown in above
Figure. Connecting a clamp type CT probe to the ground wire allows the leakage current to
be detected. Probe output passes through a shielded cable to the detector unit. A band pass
filter is built into the initial stage to pass the third harmonic and to cut off the fifth and higher
harmonics. After the third harmonic is selected, it is amplified and then displayed.
Compensating antenna is also provided, output of which is fed to the test kit to compensate
for the harmonics present in the system voltage. The harmonics present in the EHV system
are compensated and filter circuits are provided for bypassing undesired currents and only
3rd harmonic resistive current is measured.
206
Insulation Resistance Measurement
Insulation resistance measurement for Surge An-esters also gives the condition of the
arresters. Insulation resistance measurement is to be first carried out on individual stacks
and then carry out the test for the complete arrester. As this is off line test, the arrester is to
be taken out of service for such measurement. IR test proves good to find out any moisture
entry through sealing inside the arrester keeping a stack with low IR value will stress the
other stack also and failure is more prone on the other stacks also. Corrective action is to be
taken immediately.
Thermovision Scanning
Thermo-vision scanning plays a vital part in identifying defects in EHV switchyard. As it
requires no shut down of switchyard equipment, it needs to be widely used on condition
monitoring. Any loose joint, improper isolator contacts and current transfer parts could be
identified using thermo vision scanning. Thermo vision scanniing also helps in identifying
defects in surge arresters. This may not be true always but if there is defect and more
current is passing through the arrester, then the temperature inside arrester will increase and
could be detected by thermo vision scanning. It is advisable to carry out this test during
maximum voltage condition of the switchyard unlike thermo vision scanning of other current
carrying components during maximum current flow condition.
207
ANNEXURE-1
208
209
210
211
ANNEXURE-2
IR VALUES CONVERSION FACTOR
212
ANNEXURE-3
Permissible dew point in degree centigrade for N2 filled new transformer
213
DEW POINT ACCEPTANCE CHART
To be checked when new transformer is received and when during vacuum and oil
filling process
_________________________________________________________________________
214