Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Note: The source of the technical material in this volume is the Professional
Engineering Development Program (PEDP) of Engineering Services.
Warning: The material contained in this document was developed for Saudi
Aramco and is intended for the exclusive use of Saudi Aramco’s
employees. Any material contained in this document which is not
already in the public domain may not be copied, reproduced, sold, given,
or disclosed to third parties, or otherwise used in whole, or in part,
without the written permission of the Vice President, Engineering
Services, Saudi Aramco.
Contents PAGE
Glossary................................................................................................ 48
The specific requirements for uninterruptible power systems that are to be installed in Saudi
Aramco facilities are provided in 17-SAMSS-516, Uninterruptible Power Supply Systems,
and in SAES-P-103, Batteries and Uninterruptible Power Systems. Additional information
regarding the types of uninterruptible power systems and system components, which include
methods of determining types and sizes of uninterruptible power systems, can be found in the
Saudi Aramco's PEDU (Professional Engineering Development Unit) training course EEX
211, Introduction to DC/UPS Systems.
This section will discuss Saudi Aramco requirements as they apply to the following:
Static Type
When an uninterruptible power system is required, Saudi Aramco predominately uses static-
type uninterruptible power systems. Such systems are preferred over rotary uninterruptible
power systems because of reduced maintenance and increased dependability. The main
component in a static uninterruptible power system is the inverter. The ac rectifier and
inverter components are generally located in the same console in small to medium power
uninterruptible power systems. The following subsections explain the operation of static-type
uninterruptible power systems and applicable requirements for such systems.
Operation
Figure 1 is a basic diagram of a single phase SCR power converter. The ac input is applied to
an input transformer that drives an SCR bridge rectifier. The rectifier's dc output is filtered by
Capacitor C and applied to the input terminals of the inverter section. When conventional
diodes are used as rectifiers, Capacitor C charges toward the peak value of the rectifier output
pulses, and input ac voltage level fluctuations are passed onto the dc bus and the inverter ac
output. When SCRs are used as rectifiers, however, the output voltage level at the dc bus can
be controlled by controlling the conduction time of the SCRs during each cycle of the ac input
voltage. Over the range of normal SCR operation, an increase in the SCR conduction time
will increase the dc output voltage, and a decrease in the SCR conduction time will lower the
dc output voltage.
In the example in Figure 1, the rectifier/charger control circuit samples the SCR bridge dc
output bus voltage and changes the SCR conduction time to counter input ac voltage level
fluctuations. This function regulates the SCR bridge dc output bus voltage and the inverter ac
output voltage. Both short-term and long-term voltage level fluctuations are removed by the
controlled variation of the SCR conduction times.
The SCR bridge dc output bus voltage is applied to the input terminals of the inverter. The
switching SCRs in the inverter reverse the current in the primary of the output transformer at
the switching rate. The alternating current provides primary to secondary coupling in the
output transformer. The switching SCRs are controlled through use of signals from the
rectifier/charger control circuit. Harmonics of the switching frequency are removed from this
output through use of LC filters, which produce a fundamental frequency output with low
distortion.
Figure 2 shows the circuit of Figure 1 with a battery added across the SCR bridge dc output
bus. This battery normally floats on the dc bus, and it is ready to supply immediate output
power to the load in the event of an ac input power failure. Transfer action is automatic. The
inverter ac output is zero phased to the ac input, which permits clean switches between power
sources.
Requirements
The static-type uninterruptible power systems that are installed in Saudi Aramco facilities fall
into two categories that are based on output capability: uninterruptible power systems that are
rated 10 kVA and under and uninterruptible power systems that are rated greater than 10
kVA.
Uninterruptible power systems that are rated 10 kVA and under must meet the requirements
that are stated in UL 924 (Underwriter's Laboratories) and the following minimum
specifications:
• Transient Response Maximum +/- 15 percent for a 50 percent step load change
with recovery to +/- 2 percent within 3 cycles.
Inverters that support uninterruptible power systems must be designed to comply with the
following industry standards:
For uninterruptible power systems that are rated greater than 10 kVA, the requirements are
specified in Saudi Aramco Materials System Specification 17-SAMSS-516, and they are
summarized as follows:
• The batteries that support uninterruptible power systems must meet the
requirements that are stated in 17-SAMSS-511. A detailed description
of battery requirements is contained in EEX 301.05.
• Static switches that are part of the uninterruptible power system should
be designed to operate as a reverse transfer scheme. In a reverse
transfer scheme, the inverter normally is connected to the load, and the
transfer switch transfers to the alternate source when the inverter output
varies by +/- 10% of nominal output voltage or when the inverter output
varies by more than +/- 5% of nominal output frequency. The static
switch transfer time, in either direction, including logic circuit sensing
time must be less than 4.2 milliseconds.
• The static switch must be braced so that it can withstand the available
fault current from the alternate source due to a short circuit in the load.
The alternate source input of the static switch must be fused.
• The ac input to the static switch must be provided with surge protection
so that it can absorb voltage transients of a 4000 volt peak and 100 ms
duration from a 40-ohm impedance.
• The inverters and the static switch should be equipped with alarms that
energize NEMA form "C," single-pole, double-throw relay contacts.
Alarms are provided for the following conditions:
Uninterruptible power system enclosures must be made of carbon steel or aluminum and must
be designed in accordance with NEMA ICS-6. The enclosure should be free-standing NEMA
ICS-6, Type 1, force-ventilated with redundant fans. Fans are to be powered by the
uninterruptible power system output. The enclosures should have removable air filters that
can be easily cleaned. The enclosures should be designed with front access only. The access
doors or panels must have double or full length hinges. Each inverter enclosure should be
equipped with a warning sign that states that interference may be caused by portable
communications transmitters.
The external wiring to and from the inverter must be installed in accordance with the National
Electrical Code, NFPA 70. All conductors that are used for this wiring must be stranded
conductors. The wiring must be properly identified through use of thermoplastic slip-on wire
markers with permanent printed characters.
Inverters that are used in Saudi Aramco are to be equipped with panelmeters, as follows:
Meter Range
Printed circuit boards (PCBs) that are part of inverters should be manufactured with glass
epoxy resin material that has a minimum thickness of 1.6 mm (0.0626 in). Copper cladding
must have a minimum weight of 305 grams per square meter (1 oz. per sq. ft.). All copper
tracks must be composed of tin/lead plating that overlaps the gold plating of the edge
connectors by at least 2 mm. Mounting holes in the PCBs must be plated with a wall
thickness of at least 25 micrometers of copper.
All components that are located on PCBs are identified through use of etching or through use
of a high-temperature ink. Components should match the accompanying schematic that is
provided with the inverter's electrical drawings. Components that require adjustment must be
mounted so that the card does not have to be removed for adjustment.
If printed circuit boards are equipped with edge connectors, they must be gold plated to a
thickness of at least 12 micrometers. All PCBs must be coated with a solderable, clear-epoxy,
polyurethane-resin varnish.
Inverter cabinets should be equipped with stainless steel or aluminum nameplates that provide
the following information:
Nameplates are to be in the English language and in accordance with American usage.
Warning nameplates must be provided in cabinets that have an external voltage source. The
warning nameplates should read, "CAUTION - THIS UNIT CONTAINS AN EXTERNAL
VOLTAGE SOURCE." This nameplate should have these characters on a red background
and be written in both Arabic and English.
Frequency Regulation
Frequency regulation describes the ability of an uninterruptible power system static inverter to
maintain the output frequency within the specified limits during all expected conditions of
load change. Because many types of loads are frequency dependent, frequency regulation is
critical. The uninterruptible power system must be able to function as the stand-alone power
supply in those instances when it is supplying the load. When the uninterruptible power
supply is supplying the load, the inverter section of the uninterruptible power system will
maintain the frequency at its preset value, 60 Hz, and within its frequency regulation limits,
+/- 0.5%. This frequency regulation applies only to the condition when the uninterruptible
power system is unsynchronized with the ac line frequency. The frequency regulation should
be maintained for all load and dc input conditions.
A harmonic is a sinusoidal component of a periodic wave or quantity that has a frequency that
is an integral multiple of the fundamental frequency. The creation of a 60 Hz sine wave
output of an inverter will produce various harmonics of the 60 Hz signal. The effects of these
harmonics on the load will vary with the characteristics and operation of the load.
Some types of equipment can withstand power rich in harmonic components while other
types of loads may be affected by harmonic content. The requirement to remove or limit
harmonics is based on the load's ability to withstand the harmonic content of the fundamental
frequency.
Harmonics can produce harmful effects on traditional electrical components or modern static
electronics. The high frequency harmonics that are carried through use of the 60 Hz signal
will cause an increased heating of iron core devices, such as motors and transformers. Certain
relay devices will become more sensitive because of the skin effect that results from higher
frequencies. The skin effect refers to the nonuniform distribution of current throughout the
cross-section of a conductor that passes alternating current. In a circular conductor, the
current density usually increases at the surface (or skin) as the frequency increases. Sensitive
static electronic devices can also overheat because of the high frequencies of the harmonic
content of the 60 Hz signal. Many static electronic devices will develop data errors that are
caused by the high frequencies of the harmonic content.
Protection of the critical load from the effects of harmonics is accomplished through
placement of one or more filters between the inverter and the load. The type and
effectiveness of the chosen filter for a particular inverter will have an impact on the cost of the
inverter. A filter that removes the harmonic content is constructed through the use of
inductors and capacitors that are connected to the inverter output transformer secondary. The
values of the inductors and the capacitors that are selected to produce a total harmonic
distortion of less than 5 % and a single harmonic distortion of less than 3%.
In many power systems, the source of harmonics is not only the inverter. Other items, such as
electrical discharge lighting, variable speed drives, solid state motor starters, and other
devices that contain thyristors and other gate-controlled components, generate harmonics that
affect the electrical system. The filters in the output of inverters that are connected to the
electrical system will help to reduce these harmonics.
The manufacturer approval phase of the commissioning cycle provides a method to maintain
quality control of equipment that is purchased from the manufacturer before it is received at
Saudi Aramco. The manufacturer approval phase includes the approval of manufacturer's
drawings, factory quality control inspections, and the witness and approval of testing by a
designated Saudi Aramco representative. It is critical that the designated Saudi Aramco
representative approve the equipment testing prior to the shipment of the equipment to Saudi
Aramco.
The manufacturer approval phase also allows equipment problems, omissions, or deviations
from Saudi Aramco specifications to be identified and addressed prior to shipment. This
phase will prevent costly delays or receipt of equipment that does not meet Saudi Aramco
requirements. All specifications should be verified against the engineering drawings and 17-
SAMSS-516. The Electrical Engineer should communicate with the manufacturer's
representative to obtain manuals for the uninterruptible power system equipment and to obtain
the results of any testing that is performed on the equipment prior to delivery.
The Electrical Engineer should verify that the uninterruptible power system will be shipped
by a date that will allow for its installation into the complete electrical system without delays
in construction. Shipping methods should also be verified with the manufacturer to determine
that adequate measures will be taken to protect equipment.
The items that should be verified by the Electrical Engineer during the manufacturer approval
phase are as follows:
• Verify that the static switches are of the proper type and capacity and
that they are configured in accordance with the selected transfer
scheme. Reverse transfer schemes are used in Saudi Aramco.
• Verify that the manual bypass switch is the proper type and capacity.
When the Electrical Engineer has confirmed that the uninterruptible power system
specifications meet Saudi Aramco requirements, the manufacturer approval phase is
complete.
Uninterruptible power systems must be inspected upon receipt to verify that the equipment
meets all requirements as specified on the material data schedule and that it meets all other
applicable Saudi Aramco requirements. The inverter, the battery charger, the battery racks,
and associated equipment must be visually inspected to ensure that the equipment that was
ordered was received (i.e., that items are not lost or missing) and that it was not damaged
during shipment. The Electrical Engineer must verify that all the uninterruptible power
system manufacturer's technical manuals have been received and that these manuals apply to
the specific installation.
The uninterruptible power system inverter should be inspected to verify that it is equipped
with all the particular items as ordered. This inspection should include the following items as
they apply:
• Verify that batteries meet the requirements that are specified on the
material data sheet and that no cells are damaged or broken.
• Verify that all accessories and hardware for the batteries and battery
racks are present.
• Verify that the manual bypass switch is the proper type and that it
includes size surge protection. The manual bypass switch should not be
fused.
• Verify that the battery input to the inverter is controlled through use of a
two-pole, fused, disconnect switch or circuit breaker.
• Verify that the inverter output circuit breaker is designed and tested in
accordance with UL 489.
• Verify that the inverter is equipped with the following alarm functions:
- Auto-synchronization disconnect.
• Verify that the enclosures are made of carbon steel or aluminum and
that they are designed in accordance with NEMA ICS-6.
• Verify that the internal wiring of the inverter and battery charger meets
all the requirements of 17-SAMSS-516.
• Verify that all panel meters are equipped on the inverter console as
follows:
Meter Range
• Verify that the printed circuit boards that are located within the inverter
cabinets meet the requirements of 17-SAMSS-516.
• Verify that the nameplates on the inverter and battery charger cabinets
are properly designed and contain the correct information that is
required by 17-SAMSS-516.
• Verify that the inside of the inverter and battery charger are provided
with suitable nameplates that identify their functions.
After the uninterruptible power system has been received, and after the components have
been installed in the electrical system, the next step in the commissioning process is the
installation and testing phase. At this point in the commissioning process, the Electrical
Engineer must pay particular attention to the interconnection of all the components that make
up the total uninterruptible power system. The Electrical Engineer must inspect the
installation of the battery racks, the batteries, the inverter, the battery charger, and associated
wiring. When the installation of all the equipment is complete, testing can proceed to verify
that each component of the system will function properly.
The Electrical Engineer must verify that all overcurrent protection fuses have been installed
and that these fuses are of the correct value. If the fuses are undersized, they can
unnecessarily blow. If the fuses are oversized, the circuit may operate at current levels that
are large enough to cause damage to the electrical system.
A check of the available incoming power sources also is an initial condition requirement.
These incoming power sources consist of a preferred ac power source that normally connects
to the inverter circuit and an alternate ac power source that connects to the static switch and
the manual bypass switch. Some installations may further segregate the power through use of
a third incoming ac power source that would connect to the manual bypass switch. In this
case, the alternate ac power source would supply only the static switch. Phasing of all power
sources must be verified before the system is placed in operation.
The Electrical Engineer must verify that the inverter and the battery charger enclosure
ventilation fans properly operate. An inoperable fan or a restricted air flow can produce
excessive temperatures in the interior of the enclosure. These excessive temperatures can
cause operational failures and premature electrical component failures.
Battery Testing
After the batteries and battery charger have been installed, and after the batteries have been
properly filled with electrolyte and charged, the batteries should be tested to ensure that the
batteries will supply current to the load for the length of time that is specified. The batteries
must have been on a float charge for at least 72 hours before testing can commence.
The cell voltages of lead acid and nickel cadmium batteries should be measured after the
batteries have been fully charged. For lead acid batteries, the specific gravity of each cell
should also be measured, corrected for temperature, and recorded. Any cells that have a
specific gravity that is less than ten points below the average specific gravity of all the cells
should be replaced.
The battery must be tested for its ability to discharge into the load and for its ability to provide
the rated value of current for the specified length of time without reaching the final voltage.
This test is accomplished through use of a load bank. The battery output is connected to the
load bank, and the load bank is adjusted to cause the battery discharge current to equal the
discharge capacity that is listed on the data schedule. An accurate voltmeter should be
connected to the battery output so that voltage readings can be monitored and recorded at
regular intervals during the test.
No-Load Testing
No-load testing should be performed before the uninterruptible power system is connected to
the critical load. No-load tests can identify any values of the output that are not within the
specified limits. A careful examination of the output waveform can identify any harmonic
components that are generated by the uninterruptible power system inverter and that should
be filtered out through use of the inverter and filter circuits.
During the no-load testing of the inverter, careful examination of the output signal is critical
for evidence of harmonic distortion that may be generated within the inverter. Harmonics
should not exceed 4% total harmonic distortion. If excess harmonic content is observed,
operation of the uninterruptible power system inverter filtering circuits should be checked. If
the inverter output contains distortion of the sine wave that is greater than 4%, the vendor
should be contacted.
Load Testing
Load testing is conducted only after the no-load testing has been satisfactorily performed.
Load testing may be accomplished through connection of the uninterruptible power system to
a non-critical load. The connected load should be a load that contains components that are
representative of the load that will be permanently connected to the uninterruptible power
system in respect to resistive, inductive, and capacitive components. The test load should also
be able to be stepped in increments to simulate actual load conditions and transients.
Regulation
Voltage and frequency regulation can be tested and verified during the load test by changing
load conditions on the output of the inverter and by observing the uninterruptible power
system inverter's ability to maintain the voltage and frequency within the specified limits.
The nominal voltage should be maintained within +/- 2% throughout all load conditions on
the uninterruptible power system. Frequency regulation should be maintained within +/-0.5%
throughout all load conditions. A reliable method that is used to verify the voltage and
frequency output parameters is to use a disturbance analyzer that is connected to the output of
the uninterruptible power system during load testing. The disturbance analyzer will provide
an accurate record of the load test, and it will indicate any out-of-specification conditions of
voltage and frequency. Disturbance analyzers can be set to indicate all voltages and
frequencies that are outside of the preset limits.
Harmonic Distortion
Harmonic distortion can be measured when the uninterruptible power system inverter is load-
tested. Harmonic distortion may be generated from many pieces of equipment that are
connected to the electrical system. The filtering network on the output of the uninterruptible
power system inverter should reduce harmonic distortion to within acceptable limits. The
presence of harmonics causes distortion of the voltage or current waves. The distortions are
measured in terms of the voltage or current harmonic factors. IEEE Standard 519-1981
defines the harmonic factors as the ratio of the root-mean-square value
of all harmonics to the root-mean-square value of the fundamental; therefore, the voltage
harmonic factor HFv can be expressed as follows:
The presence of the voltage distortion results in harmonic currents. Figure 3 illustrates
harmonic analysis of a peaked no-load current wave.
Harmonic Content
Harmonic content is the degree of distortion in the ac output waveform of the inverter.
Harmonic content may be observed through connection of an oscilloscope to the inverter
output. The shape of the output waveform is then analyzed. The waveforms of the output
that contain harmonics will be distorted from the normal voltage and current sinusoidal
waveforms. The degree of distortion can be measured.
The waveform of the static inverter output should be monitored on start-up to ensure that the
inverter can produce an output that is comparable to the manufacturer's specifications.
Although absolute limits on the waveform distortion do not exist, the measured waveform
should model the waveforms that are supplied by the manufacturer. The inverter output
should be checked for harmonic distortion through use of a spectrum analyzer. Harmonic
distortion that is greater than 4% can cause problems with electronic equipment. If harmonic
distortion exceeds the maximum allowable level of 4%, the equipment manufacturer should
be contacted.
The procedure that is required during the load testing phase of Saudi Aramco uninterruptible
power systems is to connect a spectrum analyzer to the output of the uninterruptible power
system inverter. The spectrum analyzer should be set to the 7th harmonic and log vertical
scale. The amplitude of each harmonic should be measured. If harmonic amplitudes exceed
4% of the fundamental waveform, corrections must be made. The vendor's instructions
should be referenced for possible adjustments that should correct the problem.
During the load testing of the uninterruptible power system, the low-voltage trip function of
the inverter should be tested. The low-voltage trip off is designed to monitor the input voltage
from the battery bank and to shut down the inverter when the battery voltage drops to a
predetermined setpoint.
A two-pole circuit breaker is installed in the dc circuit ahead of the inverter. This breaker is
designed to "trip" in the event of a low dc voltage. A shunt trip circuit in the breaker monitors
the dc voltage. If the dc voltage to the inverter decreases more than 10% of the nominal dc
voltage, the shunt trip monitoring circuit will trip the breaker, which protects the battery from
discharging below the final battery voltage. (For the final battery voltage value, the
equipment manufacturer's technical manual should be consulted.)
The test to determine whether the low-voltage trip circuit works can be done in conjunction
with the battery load test. With a load connected to the inverter output, and with the ac input
to the inverter disabled, the batteries and inverter should be permitted to supply the load.
With a digital multimeter connected to the battery input to the uninterruptible power system
inverter, the battery voltage should be monitored. The inverter should first alarm when the
battery voltage drops to the low-voltage alarm setpoint. As the battery voltage continues to
drop, the inverter should open the battery circuit breaker and shut down the inverter when the
battery voltage decreases more than 10% of the nominal battery voltage.
Operational testing of an uninterruptible power system should be conducted to verify that all
system features and components function as designed and within the specified limits. The
major functional components that should be operationally tested are as follows:
• Batteries
• Inverter and associated circuits
• Static switches and transfer circuits
Each component should be subjected to all possible conditions that might occur when the
uninterruptible power system is put into normal operation. These conditions include such
circumstances as loss of ac from the preferred source, loss of the alternate source, internal
inverter failures, battery loss, and load fluctuations. Each of these situations can be simulated,
and the operation of the uninterruptible power system can be observed to determine whether it
will work as designed. To ensure that the Electrical Engineer will be able to determine
whether the uninterruptible power system operates properly during system operational testing,
a brief explanation of the operation of static switches and synchronism will be provided.
System operational tests must be performed before the uninterruptible power system is placed
in service.
Static Switches
Under certain conditions, the inverter may be unable to provide current to the critical load at
its rated output. These conditions include low or faulted dc input, a failure within the inverter
itself, or a load fault or overload. In the first two circumstances, a fast, well-controlled
transfer to the alternate source will prevent interruption of the critical loads. In the case of
load faults, the inverter must be disconnected from the load for the purposes of protection.
These switching operations are carried out through the use of SCR static switches.
SCRs are ideal static switch devices for low-frequency, high-current applications, such as the
uninterruptible power system. SCRs may be easily controlled to provide a make-before-break
transfer at the zero crossing of the load waveform, which provides a synchronized, spike-free
transfer and reduces switching transients to an acceptable level.
The static switches that are used in Saudi Aramco uninterruptible power systems contain
thyristors that are arranged in back-to-back pairs to form an electronic, single-pole, double-
throw switch. Because static switches have a faster speed of operation, static switches are
used instead of mechanical switches. Static switches can open or close in less than 4 ms
whereas mechanical switches require at least 30 ms to open or to close.
The electronic circuit of the static switch monitors the inverter output voltage. During system
operational testing, the Electrical Engineer should observe that if the output voltage fluctuates
outside the range of +/- 10% of the nominal inverter output voltage, the static switch
immediately transfers (in less than 4.2 ms) to the alternate source. The Electrical Engineer
should observe that the static switch remains in the diverted or alternate position until the
following conditions are satisfied:
The electronic circuit of the static switch also monitors the inverter output frequency. If the
output frequency fluctuates outside the range of 60 Hz (+/- 5%), the Electrical Engineer
should observe that the static switch immediately transfers (in less than 4.2 ms) to the
alternate source. The Electrical Engineer should observe that the static switch remains in the
diverted or alternate position until the following conditions are satisfied:
Synchronism
Synchronism is the condition in which two separately-generated voltages are at the same
point of the ac waveform at the same instant in time. Synchronism is required for the two
circuit voltage waveforms to be connected without causing a significant disturbance to the
load and the power system. In uninterruptible power systems, synchronism must be
maintained between the inverter output and the alternate source. When an inverter is in
operation, the sensing circuits monitor the alternate source ac waveform and keep the inverter
output in synchronism with the alternate source. The synchronism between the inverter and
the alternate source allows the inverter to instantly switch to the alternate source when an
uninterruptible power system inverter internal failure occurs. When the inverter has returned
to normal, the same sensing and logic circuits allow the inverter to be instantaneously
switched back to carry the load.
Synchronism (Cont'd)
Normal
The normal condition in a uninterruptible power system that is configured in the reverse
transfer scheme, which is required by Saudi Aramco, is that the inverter is normally
connected to the load and the alternate source is in standby. During system operational
testing, if the ac input to the inverter fails, the Electrical Engineer should observe that batteries
supply dc input to the inverter that, in turn, continues to provide ac to the load without
interruption. This mode of operation could continue until the batteries discharge to the low
voltage setpoint. When the low voltage setpoint is reached, the Electrical Engineer should
observe that the inverter is shut down, and the load is transferred to the alternate source.
The inverter batteries normally do not supply the load for a period of time that is long enough
to cause the low-voltage trip to operate. To present a low-voltage trip, either power is
restored to the uninterruptible power system inverter input or the power is shifted to the
alternate source before the batteries reach the final voltage.
Alternate Source
The alternate source of ac power is selected and designed so that if the preferred source of
power is lost, the alternate source should still be available to provide power. Switching to the
alternate source should occur without noticeable interruption. The transfer to the alternate
source can be tested through simulation of a power loss to the preferred ac source during
system operational testing.
The purpose of simulating a line power source loss is to verify that a uninterruptible power
system will properly operate under the designed conditions to provide an uninterrupted,
bumpless transfer to the alternate source of power.
Two conditions must be observed to ensure the proper operation of the uninterruptible power
system: the transfer of power from the preferred power source to the alternate power source
and the transfer of power from the alternate source to the preferred source.
The following sequence of events should be observed during the performance of the
simulated line power source loss test:
Synchronism (Cont'd)
• In this situation, the input to the inverter can be the preferred ac source
via the battery charger or the stationary battery.
Synchronism (Cont'd)
• When the preferred source conditions are met, the critical load will be
transferred to the inverter output.
Bypass
Figure 4 illustrates a uninterruptible power system with an ac bypass line. The battery
charger charges the battery, and it is the normal source of power to the ac loads (via the
inverter). The bypass source is a separate source of ac power that is connected between the ac
power source and the static switch. This power source is also connected to a contact of the
manual bypass switch.
The manual bypass switch is a manually-controlled switch that is used to transfer the critical
ac loads from the primary power source (inverter output) to the alternate power source (ac
bypass source). The manual bypass switch is used in the performance of maintenance and
service functions or in the rare event of an inverter or static switch failure. Both the inverter
output and the ac bypass source are connected to the contacts of the manual bypass switch.
The transfer action of the switch is make-before-break; therefore, the critical ac loads can be
transferred from the normal power source to the bypass power source with no interruption of
power to the critical ac load. During system operational testing, the manual bypass switch is
tested for proper operations, and the system response is observed.
Synchronism (Cont'd)
Generally, the manual bypass or "maintenance" bypass switches that are used in Saudi
Aramco uninterruptible power systems have the following positions:
• Normal
• Bypass Test Position
• Full Bypass Position
When the switch is in the normal position, the inverter output and the ac bypass source are
connected to the critical ac loads through the static switch. When the switch is in the bypass
test position, the critical ac loads are connected to the ac bypass source, and the inverter
output and the ac bypass source are still connected to the static switch input. When the switch
is in the full bypass position, the critical ac loads are connected to the ac bypass source, and
the static switch is totally disconnected from the ac bypass source. In the full bypass position,
the manual bypass switch provides total electrical isolation of the uninterruptible power
system from the output for purposes of maintenance.
The critical ac loads can be any loads that require an uninterruptible source of ac power.
4. Select the least-expensive inverter type that fits the requirements of the
load.
• Scott "T" transformer ferroresonant inverters are used for the following
conditions:
- Transient response should not exceed +/- 10% average over 4.2
ms for transfer to bypass or return from bypass and/or 100% step
load change.
- Harmonic content should be less than 5% total under all load and
dc input conditions.
1. Verify that all of the Visual and Mechanical Inspections that are listed on sheet 1 of
Form P-026 have been completed and that inspection items are indicated by a check
mark in the Yes columns, including the following:
1a. Verify that the start-up and commissioning results of the battery
system checks that are listed on Figures 7a and 7b,
Uninterruptible Power System Start-Up and Commissioning Test
Results Data Sheet (Page 1), are satisfactory.
1b. Verify that all of the required safety equipment is present and
operable. The presence and operation of the required safety
equipment is indicated by an "X" in the Yes column.
1c. Verify that the test equipment and special tools are available.
The availability of the test equipment and special tools is
indicated by an "X" in the Yes column.
1d. Verify that the battery rack is assembled and correctly installed.
The assembly and correct installation of the battery rack is
indicated by an "X" in the Yes column.
1e. Verify that the battery cells and support equipment are correctly
installed. Correct installation of the battery cells and support
equipment is indicated by an "X" in the Yes column.
Uninterruptible Power System Start-Up and Commissioning Test Results Data Sheet
(Page 1)
Figure 7a
Uninterruptible Power System Start-Up and Commissioning Test Results Data Sheet
(Page 2)
Figure 7b
1f. Verify that the initial battery cell terminal resistances are satisfactory
through comparison of the resistance values that are recorded on Figure 8 with
the acceptable values for battery cell terminal resistance. The acceptable value
for battery cell terminal resistance is that no cell terminal should have a
resistance that exceeds 10% or 5__, whichever is greater over the average of all
of the cell terminal resistances.
1g. Verify that the battery test results are satisfactory through
comparison of the data that are recorded on Figure 9 with the
acceptable values for the battery test that are listed below:
Cell Voltage
Plate Condition
1h. Verify that the battery acceptance test results are satisfactory
through comparison of the data that are recorded on Figure 10
with the acceptable values that are listed below:
The acceptable value for the battery discharge rate is that the
battery discharge rate must meet the manufacturer's specified
battery discharge rate or the battery discharge rate as determined
by the Saudi Aramco Design Engineer.
The acceptable value for the battery discharge duration is that the
time period for the battery discharge rate must meet the
manufacturer's specified battery discharge duration or the battery
discharge duration as determined by the Saudi Aramco Design
Engineer. The battery discharge duration is the time period that
it takes for a battery that is under a constant current discharge to
reach the specified battery terminal voltage. The specified
battery terminal voltage is a value that is equal to the specified
average voltage per cell (usually 1.75 V) times the number of
cells.
2. Verify that the start-up and commissioning results for the battery charger setpoints and
calibration checks that are listed on Figure 7a, dc/Uninterruptible Power System Start-
Up and Commissioning Test Results Data Sheet (page 1), are satisfactory.
3. Verify that the enclosure ventilation fan is properly operating. Satisfactory operation
is indicated by an "X" in the Yes column.
4. Verify that the battery float voltage and equalize voltage settings are adjusted in
accordance with the battery manufacturer's recommendations.
The acceptable values for equalize voltage are +/- 1% of the nominal voltage
for systems that are rated more than 10 kW. For systems that are 10 kW or less, the
acceptable value is +/- 2% of the nominal voltage. The nominal voltage is the cell
open circuit voltage as stated by the equipment manufacturer.
5. The acceptable value for operation of the end of charge condition alarm is +/- 5% of
the 1.75 volts per cell setpoint for lead-acid cells and +/- 5% of the 1.10 volts per cell
setpoint for nickel-cadmium cells.
6. The acceptable value for the low charger output voltage alarm setpoint is 2.2 volts per
cell for lead-acid cells and 1.4 volts per cell for nickel-cadmium cells.
7. The ground detection alarm should operate when the leakage current exceeds 10.0
milliamps, which is a fixed value that is established by the equipment manufacturer.
8. The acceptable value for the charger overvoltage alarm setpoint is +/- 10% of the
nominal cell voltage, as recommended by the equipment manufacturer.
9. The acceptable value for the charger failure alarm setpoint is +0, -15% of the nominal
cell voltage, as recommended by the cell manufacturer.
10. The acceptable value for the enclosure overtemperature alarm setpoint is +10%, -0%
of the manufacturer's recommended normal operating temperature.
11. The equalize charge timer should be set so that the actual elapsed time is within +/--
10% of the timer setting.
12. The dc voltmeter (output) panelmeter indication and the dc ammeter (output)
panelmeter indication should be within +/- 2% of the portable voltage and ammeter
indications as applicable.
13. Verify that the start-up and commissioning results for the uninterruptible power system
that are listed on Figure 7a, dc/Uninterruptible Power System Start-Up and
Commissioning Test Results Data Sheet (page 1) and Figure 7b, Uninterruptible
Power System Start-Up and Commissioning Test Results Data Sheet (page 2) are
satisfactory.
14. Verify that the enclosure ventilation fan is properly operating. Satisfactory operation
is indicated by an "X" in the Yes column.
15. Verify that the output voltage, frequency, and harmonic waveforms that are shown in
Figure 11 are satisfactory in comparison to the manufacturer's technical data.
16. The acceptable high inverter dc input voltage alarm setpoint is +10%, -0% of the
nominal inverter input voltage.
17. The acceptable low inverter dc input voltage alarm setpoint is +0, -10% of the nominal
inverter input voltage.
18. The alternate voltage/sync source is not available at the static switch alarm setpoint
should be set to actuate when the alternate voltage is +/- 10% of its nominal value or
when the alternate source frequency is +/- 5% of the nominal 60 Hz.
19. The static switch position indicator alarm should actuate when the static switch
transfers to the alternate power source.
20. The acceptable inverter output failure indicator setpoint is +/- 10% of the nominal
inverter output voltage.
21. The acceptable enclosure overtemperature indicator setpoint is +10%, -0% of the
manufacturer's recommended normal operating temperature.
22. The acceptable auto synchronization disconnect alarm setpoint is +/- 5% of the
alternate voltage source frequency.
23. The static switch transfer to the alternate source voltage should occur at +/- 10% of the
nominal inverter output voltage.
24. The static switch re-transfer to the preferred source voltage should occur at +/- 2% of
the nominal inverter output voltage.
25. The static switch transfer to the alternate source frequency should occur at +/- 5% of
the nominal inverter output frequency.
26. The static switch re-transfer to the preferred source frequency should occur at +/-2%
of the nominal inverter output frequency.
27. The battery isolation circuit breaker shunt trip monitor voltage should be set to +/-2%
of the portable voltmeter indication.
28. The inverter dc input voltage panelmeter indication should be within +/- 2% of the
portable voltmeter indication.
29. The inverter ac output voltage panelmeter indication should be within +/- 2% of the
portable voltmeter indication.
30. The alternate ac input voltage panelmeter indication should be within +/- 2% of the
portable voltmeter indication.
31. The inverter ac output frequency panelmeter indication should be within +/- 2% of the
oscilloscope indication.
32. The inverter ac output amperage panelmeter indication should be within +/- 2% of the
portable ammeter indication.
33. Verify that the manual bypass switch transfer to the test bypass position is satisfactory.
Satisfactory operation of the switch transfer to the test bypass position is indicated by
an "X" in the Yes column.
34. Verify that the manual bypass switch transfer to the full bypass position is satisfactory.
Satisfactory operation of the switch transfer to the full bypass position is indicated by
an "X" in the Yes column.
35. (3_ systems) Verify that the panel voltmeter selector switch function test is
satisfactory. Satisfactory operation of each switch function is indicated by an "X" in
the Yes column.
36. (3_ systems) Verify that the panel frequency meter selector switch function test is
satisfactory. Satisfactory operation of each switch position function is indicated by an
"X" in the Yes column.
37. (3_ systems) Verify that the panel ammeter selector switch function test is
satisfactory. Satisfactory operation of each switch position function is indicated by an
"X" in the Yes column.
GLOSSARY
ferroresonant The effect that is obtained by the limiting action of the saturation
characteristics of a magnetic material.