You are on page 1of 343

CABLE FAULT

LOCATION
MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

june2021
ASSET MANAGEMENT DEPARTMENT, TNB DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION
Cable Fault Location Manual
Distribution Network Division, TNB

June 2021

Asset Management Department


Distribution Network Division
Tenaga Nasional Berhad

Disclaimer: This Cable Fault Location Manual is a document solely to provide technicians, engineers and
managers of Distribution Network (DN), Tenaga Nasional Berhad with an understanding of cable fault
location. The information in this document has been prepared in good faith and represents the Asset
Management Department’s intentions and opinions at the date of issue. The Asset Management
Department may change any information in this document at any time.
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

Acknowledgement
Head (Asset Management), Ir. Ismail Bin Lam Din

We would like to express our deepest gratitude to


the management of the Distribution Network
Division, for giving us the opportunity to develop
the TNB Distribution Network Division’s Cable Fault
Location Manual.

Special thanks to Ir. Ts. Tan Chow Heang, Mdm.


Zairul Aida bt Abu Zarim, Mr. Radzlan Hisham Bin
Mohd Arifin, Ir. Mohd Rizal bin Johari and Ir. Mohd
Faizal bin Omar from TNB Engineering Services Unit, for their valuable
contribution and assistance in developing this manual.

Our appreciation also goes to the TNB ILSAS Team, comprising Ir Muhammad
Nazri bin Ismail, Ir Pairolani Bin Safari @ Hj Hashim, Ir Nur Khairunnisa bt Noorahim,
Mr. Harun bin Zainudin, Mr. Mok Kin Wah, Mr. Hailani bin Marzuki, Mr. Mohd
Nizam Pujaman, Mr. Ahamad Danial bin Mat Lui, Mr.Muhammad Azri bin Abdul
Rahman, Mr Muhammad Naim bin Zailan and other TNB ILSAS staff for their
untiring efforts and patience towards the successful completion of this manual.

Thank you.

Ir. Ismail Bin Lam Din


Head (Asset Management)
Distribution Network Division, TNB

Page | ii
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

Foreword
Chief Distribution Network Officer, Wan Nazmy Bin Wan Mahmood

Medium voltage underground cable is one of the important


assets in TNB Distribution Network system. It is crucial
for us to locate and repair underground cable fault as
soon as possible to enhance our customer experience.

TNB Distribution Network Division through its


Engineering Services, Asset Management Department,
in collaboration with TNB Integrated Learning Solution
(ILSAS) have taken a step forward to develop this manual
as an effort to preserve the knowledge on cable fault locating technique. This
initiative is believed to benefit all TNB staff and will serve as a practical
reference towards better asset management and distribution system
restoration as well as enhancing competency and promote safe work practice.
I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate the project team from
the Engineering Services and ILSAS for their impressive effort in developing this
useful manual.

Thank you.

Wan Nazmy Bin Wan Mahmood


Chief Distribution Network Officer
Tenaga Nasional Berhad

Page| iii
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

List of Abbreviations

𝐿𝑓 Fault Length
𝑅𝑓 Fault Resistance
𝑍𝑜 Surge Impedance
ARM Arc Reflection Method
C Capacitance
CT Current Transformer
DC Direct Current
E Earth
EPR Ethylene Propylene Rubber
HIRARC Hazard Identification, Risk Assessment and Risk Control
ICE Impulse Current Equipment
ICM Impulse Current Method
IR Insulation Resistance
L Inductance
LV Low Voltage
MIM Multiple Impulse Method
MV Medium Voltage
Ø Phase
OC/EF Over Current / Earth Fault
OEM Original Equipment Manufacturer

Page | iv
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

PE Polyethylene
PILC Paper Insulated Lead Covered
PMPD Permit Menjalankan Pengujian Diagnostik
PPE Personal Protective Equipment
PVC Polyvinyl Chloride
RADAR Radio Detection and Ranging
SIM Secondary Impulse Method
SSG Surge Signal Generator
TDR Time Domain Refelectometer
TNB Tenaga Nasional Berhad
VLF Very Low Frequency
VOP Velocity of Propagation
XLPE Cross Linked Polyethylene

Glossary of Terms

H – Type Type of cable designed by M.Hochstadter. Each conductor in


this cable is insulated with paper, covered by a metallic
screen which is generally perforated metallic screen

Page| v
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

Table of Contents

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT ............................................................................................. ii
FOREWORD ............................................................................................................. iii
LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS ......................................................................................... iv
GLOSSARY OF TERMS .............................................................................................. v
TABLE OF CONTENTS .............................................................................................. vi
LIST OF FIGURES ....................................................................................................... x
LIST OF TABLES ...................................................................................................... xiii
LIST OF APPENDICES ............................................................................................. xiv

CHAPTER 1 : OVERVIEW OF CABLE FAULT LOCATION ............................................1


1.0 Introduction ................................................................................................1
1.1.Fault Characteristics .............................................................................2
1.2.Types of Fault .......................................................................................4
1.2.1 Series / Open Circuit Fault.....................................................5
1.2.2 Shunt / Short Circuit Fault .....................................................5
1.2.3 Low Resistance Fault .............................................................8
1.2.4 High Resistance Fault ............................................................9
1.2.5 Intermittent / Flashing Fault ...............................................15
1.3 Safety Requirement for Fault Location ..............................................16
1.3.1 Safety Requirement ............................................................16
1.3.2 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) .................................17

Page | vi
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

1.3.3 Tool Box Talk .......................................................................18


1.3.4 Permit to Perform Diagnostic Test (Permit Menjalankan
Pengujian Diagnostik - PMPD) .....................................................19
1.4 Fault Location Overview Process .......................................................20

CHAPTER 2 : FAULT DIAGNOSIS .............................................................................22


2.0 Overview of Fault Diagnosis .....................................................................22
2.1 Fault Analysis .....................................................................................23
2.1.1 Insulation Resistance Test ...................................................24
2.1.2 Continuity Test ....................................................................25

CHAPTER 3 : FAULT PRE-LOCATION.......................................................................28


3.0 Overview of Fault Pre-Location ................................................................28
3.1 Low Voltage Method ..........................................................................29
3.1.1 Time Domain Reflectometry (TDR) .....................................30
3.2 High Voltage Method .........................................................................39
3.2.1 Secondary Impulse Method / Multiple Impulse Method
(SIM / MIM) ..................................................................................44
3.2.2 Arc Reflection Method (ARM) .............................................49
3.2.3 Impulse Current Method/Equipment (ICM / ICE) ...............51
3.2.4 Decay Method .....................................................................54
3.3 Bridge Measurement Method ...........................................................56

Page| vii
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

CHAPTER 4 : CABLE ROUTE TRACING ....................................................................59


4.0 Overview of Cable Route Tracing .............................................................59
4.1 Cable Route Tracing Equipment .........................................................59
4.2 Passive Live Cable Tracing ..................................................................64
4.3 Active Cable Route Tracing ................................................................64
4.4 General Guide for Successful Cable Tracing .......................................71

CHAPTER 5 : PIN-POINTING ...................................................................................73


5.0 Overview of Pin-Pointing .........................................................................73
5.1 Acoustic / Shock Wave Discharge / Thumping ...................................73
5.2 Magnetic Field Detection / Electromagnetic Surge Detection ...........75
5.3 Pool of Potential / Step Voltage .........................................................76
5.4 Pin-Pointing Equipment .....................................................................77

CHAPTER 6 : CABLE IDENTIFICATION ....................................................................79


6.0 Overview of Cable Identification.....................................................................79
6.1 Cable Identification Equipment .........................................................80

CHAPTER 7 : FAULT CONFIRMATION & RE-TEST ...................................................81


7.0 Introduction ..............................................................................................81
7.1 Fault Confirmation .............................................................................81
7.2 Re-Test ...............................................................................................82

Page | viii
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

CHAPTER 8 : REPAIR, TESTING & RE-COMMISSIONING ........................................84


8.0 Introduction ..............................................................................................84
8.1 Repair .................................................................................................84
8.2 Testing & Re-Commissioning .............................................................85
8.2.1 Testing .................................................................................85
8.2.2 Re-Commissioning ...............................................................86

List of References...................................................................................................87

Page| ix
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

List of Figures

Figure 1.1 : Equivalent Circuit of Cable Fault .......................................................... 3


Figure 1.2 : Failure of Continuity in Conductors ...................................................... 5
Figure 1.3 : Phase to Earth (Ø to E) Fault ................................................................ 5
Figure 1.4 : Phase To Phase (Ø to Ø) Fault .............................................................. 6
Figure 1.5 : Characteristic Impedance of Shunt Fault ........................................... 10
Figure 1.6 : Characteristic Impedance of Series Fault ........................................... 11
Figure 1.7 : Relative amplitude of reflective pulse as a function of the ratio of fault
resistance 𝑅𝑓 to surge impedance 𝑍0 for both series and shunt faults
........................................................................................................... 12
Figure 1.8 : Examples of PMPD.............................................................................. 19
Figure 1.9 : 5 Main Process in Fault Location ........................................................ 20
Figure 1.10 : Cable Fault Pre-Location Method Selection Flowchart .................... 21
Figure 2.1 : Insulation Resistance Tester 5 kV (Brand : Megger) ........................... 24
Figure 2.2 : Multimeter ......................................................................................... 26
Figure 2.3 : Insulation Resistance Tester ............................................................... 26
Figure 3.1 : Example of TDR Connection and Display Trace .................................. 31
Figure 3.2 : Examples of TDR Trace ....................................................................... 32
Figure 3.3 : Echometer Baur IRG 3000 .................................................................. 35
Figure 3.4 : Teleflex SebaKMT ............................................................................... 35
Figure 3.5 : Echometer IRG 2000 ........................................................................... 35
Figure 3.6 : Principle of Travelling Wave ............................................................... 36
Figure 3.7 : Principle of Travelling Wave in Cable ................................................. 37

Page | x
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

Figure 3.8 : 0 - 8 kV Range ..................................................................................... 41


Figure 3.9 : 0 - 16 kV Range ................................................................................... 41
Figure 3.10 : 0 - 32 kV Range ................................................................................. 42
Figure 3.11 : Graph of Surge Voltage Level vs Energy Released............................ 43
Figure 3.12 : Connection Diagram for SIM Method .............................................. 45
Figure 3.13 : SIM Graph Measurement ................................................................. 46
Figure 3.14 : Illustration of MIM Fault Pre-Location Process ................................ 47
Figure 3.15 : MIM Pre-Location Trace ................................................................... 48
Figure 3.16 : Simplified Diagram for the ARM Pre-Location Connection .............. 49
Figure 3.17 : Fault Trace by ARM Pre-Location Method ....................................... 50
Figure 3.18 : Illustrations of ICM Connection, Arc Reflection Sequence and Typical
Reflection Traces ............................................................................... 52
Figure 3.19 : Example of ICM Reflection Trace and Measurement of Fault Distance
........................................................................................................... 53
Figure 3.20 : Illustrations of Decay Method, Surge Voltage Transient Reflection
Sequence and Typical Reflection Traces ............................................ 55
Figure 3.21 : Murray Loop Test for Earth Fault ..................................................... 56
Figure 4.1 : RD 8000 .............................................................................................. 60
Figure 4.2 : RD 8000 (Radio Detection) ................................................................. 61
Figure 4.3 : Metrotech i5000 ................................................................................. 61
Figure 4.4 : Metrotech i5000 ................................................................................. 62
Figure 4.5 : RD Route Tracer.................................................................................. 62

Page| xi
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

Figure 4.6 : Maximum and Minimum Mode Illustrations ..................................... 63


Figure 4.7 : Illustration of Galvanic / Direct Connection ....................................... 67
Figure 4.8 : Principle of Cable Route Tracing by Direct Connection ...................... 67
Figure 4.9 : Inductive Connection (Clamp) at Joint Pit .......................................... 68
Figure 4.10 : Inductive Connection (Clamp) at Cable End ..................................... 69
Figure 4.11 : Illustration of Inductive Connection (Frame Antenna) at Site .......... 70
Figure 5.1: Baur UL30-BM30 Pin-Pointing Equipment .......................................... 78
Figure 5.2 : Megger Digiphone+ Surge Wave Receiver ......................................... 78

Page | xii
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

List of Tables

Table 1.1 : Fault Characteristics .............................................................................. 3


Table 1.2 : Belted Cable (PILC) vs H-Type (PILC) / Screened Cable (XLPE) ............... 7
Table 1.3 : Cable Parameter .................................................................................... 8
Table 1.4 : Characteristics of Pulse Reflection ...................................................... 11
Table 1.5 : Shunt Fault Example ............................................................................ 13
Table 1.6 : Series Fault Example ............................................................................ 14
Table 1.7 : List of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) ....................................... 17
Table 2.1 : Typical Technical Information from Cable Manufacturer Data Sheet . 27
Table 3.1 : Typical Velocities of Propagation......................................................... 38
Table 4.1 : Various Type Connection of Transmitter Signal .................................. 70
Table 4.2 : Recommended Signal Frequency Based on Cable Length ................... 72
Table 7.1 : Common Issue at Site and Solution ..................................................... 83

Page| xiii
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

List of Appendices

Appendix I : Step-By-Step Procedures to Perform Insulation Resistance (IR) 88


Test………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Appendix II : Step-By-Step Procedures to Perform Continuity Test................. 96
Appendix III : Step-By-Step Procedures to Perform TDR Measurement
(Baur)…………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 100
Appendix IV : Step-By-Step Procedures to Perform TDR Measurement
(Megger)………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 120
Appendix V : Step-By-Step Procedures for Secondary Impulse Method /
Multiple Impulse Method (SIM / MIM)………………………………………………………… 136
Appendix VI : Step-By-Step Procedures for Arc Reflection Method
(ARM)………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 162
Appendix VII : Step-By-Step Procedures for Impulse Current Method
(ICM)……………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 188
Appendix VIII : Step-By-Step Procedures for Impulse Current Equipment
(ICE)……………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 212
Appendix IX : Step-By-Step Procedures for Pin-Pointing (Megger
digiPHONE+)………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 241
Appendix X : Step-By-Step Procedures for Pin-Pointing (Baur UL 30 & BM
30)…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 271
Appendix XI : Step-By-Step Procedures for Cable
Identification…………………………………………………………………………………………………. 296
Appendix XII : Step by Step Fault Confirmation & Re-Test (Baur)…………………… 323
Appendix XIII : Step by Step Fault Confirmation & Re-Test
(Megger)………………………………………………………………………………………………………... 325
Appendix XIV : Example of Fault Analysis Test Sheet……………………………………… 327

Page | xiv
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

CHAPTER 1 : OVERVIEW OF CABLE FAULT LOCATION

1.0 Introduction
Underground cable is a very essential part in TNB systems in transmitting
electricity from one location to another. As the distribution network expands
and becoming more complex, it is critical to develop the underground cable
systems right from design stage. Proper selection and installation of cables will
ensure a reliable electrical system with extended operation lifetime and
enhance systems reliability. Cable installation procedures must be rigorously
followed to ensure a good underground cable installation. Nevertheless, cable
fault is inevitable as the cable network is exposed to numerous site conditions
and harsh environments. However, there are several scenarios that cause cable
fault to occur. Below are the examples of the scenarios:
 Accidental damage by external mechanical means.
 Damage caused by mishandling of cables during initial laying.
 Poor cable jointing workmanship.
 Manufacturing defects.
 Natural causes due to aging of cables and accessories.
 Damage caused by movement of soil and erosion.

A fault is defined as any defect, weakness, inconsistency or non-homogeneity


that affects the performance of a cable.

Page| 1
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

In general, cable fault can be divided into two types which are:

1. Series Fault (Open Circuit)


2. Shunt Fault (Short Circuit)

However, in practice, the above-mentioned faults can occur singularly or in


combination and vary so much in degree that they may take on a multitude of
forms.

1.1. Fault Characteristics

Cable faults can be divided into series or shunt types. Series faults occur when
the continuity of one or more metallic elements in a cable, be it either
conductor or metallic sheath, is impaired. Usually series faults only become
apparent when its continuity has been completely broken on at least one
conductor causing an open circuit fault.

Shunt faults occur where the insulation of cable conductors is damaged.


Although shunt faults on belted (MV PILC Cables) cables may involve more than
one phase, the most common fault is because of single phase to earth fault. On
screened cables (MV XLPE Cables), all shunt faults are earth faults. Combined
shunt and series faults may also occur from damaged insulator.

Page | 2
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

Both series and shunt faults can be represented by the equivalent circuit in
Figure 1.1.
The value of all the
elements in the
equivalent circuit can
widely vary and are
completely
independent of each
other.

Figure 1.1 : Equivalent Circuit of Cable Fault

Table 1.1 : Fault Characteristics

Fault Resistance Fault


Fault Type Spark Gap (SG)
(𝑹𝒇 ) Capacitance (𝑪𝒇 )
Influenced by
No breakdown
presence of
Series Near Infinity under impulse or
water at fault
DC stress
point
Breakdown under
impulse or DC
𝑅𝑓 <10𝑍0
stress, if 𝑅𝑓 is not
Low Resistance too low N/A

𝑅𝑓 near 0Ω Bridged (Shorted)

Influenced by
Breakdown under
presence of
High Resistance 𝑅𝑓 >10𝑍0 impulse or DC
water at fault
stress
point

Page| 3
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

Fault Resistance Fault Capacitance


Fault Type Spark Gap (SG)
(𝑅𝑓 ) (𝐶𝑓 )
Influenced by
Breakdown under
Near Infinity/ presence of
Flashing impulse or DC
Infinity water at fault
stress
point

Influenced by
Breakdown under
Near Infinity/ presence of
Intermittent prolonged DC
Infinity water at fault
stress
point

1.2. Types of Fault

There are few types of fault such as :-

1. Series / Open Circuit Fault


2. Shunt / Short Circuit Fault
3. Low Resistance Fault
4. High Resistance Fault
5. Interminttent / Flashing Fault

All these faults will be further explained in Chapter 1.2.1 – Chapter 1.2.5.

Page | 4
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

1.2.1 Series / Open Circuit Fault


A fault involving broken continuity in either the conductors or cable metallic
sheath.

Figure 1.2 : Failure of Continuity in Conductors

1.2.2 Shunt / Short Circuit Fault

Shunt fault is the failure of the cable’s insulation. Faults can occur between
phase to phase (Ø to Ø) or phase to earth (Ø-E). In belted PILC cables, fault can
occur between phase to phase or phase to earth.

Figure 1.3 : Phase to Earth (Ø to E) Fault

Page| 5
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

Figure 1.4 : Phase To Phase (Ø to Ø) Fault

For screened type MV XLPE cable and H-Type Screened PILC Cable, it is not
possible to have phase to phase fault due to the cable construction where each
cable core is screened and connected to earth. However, phase to earth fault
could develop into a phase to phase fault if the protection device does not
operate fast enough to isolate the fault.

Page | 6
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

Table 1.2 : Belted Cable (PILC) vs H-Type (PILC) / Screened Cable (XLPE)

Belted Cable (PILC) H-Type (PILC) /


Screened Cable (XLPE)

Page| 7
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

1.2.3 Low Resistance Fault

A cable fault is considered as low resistance fault when the fault resistance is
𝑅𝑓 <10𝑍0 .

𝐿
𝑍0 (Surge Impedance) = √ Equation 1.1
𝐶

Where;
𝑅𝑓 = Fault Resistance, L = Inductance, C = Capacitance of Cable

Table 1.3 : Cable Parameter

Type of Cable
Cable Parameter
11 kV 3 Core 150mmsq 11 kV 3 Core 240mmsq

Inductance
0.310 0.289
(𝒎𝑯⁄𝒌𝒎)

Capacitance
𝞵𝑭⁄ 0.382 0.465
( 𝒌𝒎)
Surge Impedance of
𝑳
28.5 24.93
Cable, 𝒁𝟎 = √
𝑪

Page | 8
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

The typical fault resistance value, 𝑅𝑓 considered as Low Resistance Fault given
by Megger is ≤ 300Ω and for Baur is ≤ 100Ω respectively. For low resistance
fault, Pulse Echo or Time Domain Reflectometry (TDR) pre-location method is
recommended to determine the fault distance.

1.2.4 High Resistance Fault

Cable fault with fault resistance 𝑅𝑓 >10𝑍0 is considered as high resistance fault.
For high resistance fault, the normal Pulse Echo/ Time Domain Reflectometry
(TDR) fault pre-location method is incapable of detecting the fault location
distance due to minimum characteristic impedance mismatch at the fault point.
This can be demonstrated by a reflection factor.

High Voltage Pre-Location Method such as Secondary Impulse Method (SIM)/ Arc
Reflection Method (ARM) and Impulse Current Method (ICM) are recommended
to obtain the fault distance. If the high resistance fault is unable to be determined
by 5 kV Insulation Resistance Tester, the next step is to apply high DC voltage to
determine the voltage where the fault condition is changing. This Breakdown
Voltage shall be noted, as it will be the minimum voltage value setting for the
Surge Signal Generator (SSG) in high voltage fault pre-location procedure where
a surge voltage from the Surge Signal Generator (SSG) or thumper is applied to
cause the fault to flashover.

Page| 9
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

Reflection Factor (r)


When a pulse travelling in a cable meets with a sudden change in the characteristic
impedance (𝑍0 ), a fraction of pulse would be reflected. The degree of reflection is
determined by a factor called coefficient of reflection or reflection factor (r). The
Reflection Factor (r) is a function of the fault resistance (𝑅𝑓 ) and the characteristic
impedance ( 𝑍0 ), of the cable concerned.
𝑍01 −𝑍0
Reflection Factor, r = Equation 1.2
𝑍01+ 𝑍0
Where;
𝑍0 = Surge Impedance of Cable
𝑍01 = New characteristic impedance

𝑍0
𝑅𝑓 𝑍01

Figure 1.5 : Characteristic Impedance of Shunt Fault

Where;
𝑅𝑓 𝑍0 Equation 1.3
𝑍01 =
𝑅𝑓 + 𝑍0

Page | 10
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

𝑅𝑓
𝑍0 𝑍01

Figure 1.6 : Characteristic Impedance of Series Fault

Where;
𝑍01 = 𝑅𝑓 + 𝑍0 Equation 1.4

In the two extremes, 𝑅𝑓 value tends to be zero for shunt fault (short circuit) and
infinity for series fault (open circuit). The waveforms generated are as shown in
Table 1.4.

Table 1.4 : Characteristics of Pulse Reflection

Shunt Fault Series Fault

Page| 11
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

Figure 1.7 : Relative amplitude of reflective pulse as a function of the ratio of fault
resistance 𝑅𝑓 to surge impedance 𝑍0 for both series and shunt faults

Page | 12
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

Relationship between Fault Resistance and Reflection Factor

Listed are examples of relationship between fault resistance, (𝑅𝑓 )and reflection
factor (r).

Shunt Fault
For 3 Core 240mmsq XLPE cable : 𝑍01 = 24.93 Ω

Table 1.5 : Shunt Fault Example

Formula of
Fault Reflection
Reflection Calculation Remarks
Resistance Factor
Factor
−24.93 Clear
5Ω x 100% - 71.37% Negative
2 𝑥 5+24.93
Reflection

−24.93
x Minimum
2 𝑥 250+24.93
250 Ω −𝑍01 - 4.75% Negative
2𝑅𝑓 + 𝑍01 100% Reflection

X 100%
−24.93
x Reflection
2 𝑥1000+24.93
1000 Ω -1.2% Cannot Be
100% Seen

Page| 13
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

Series Fault
For 3 Core 240mmsq XLPE cable : 𝑍01 = 24.93 Ω

Table 1.6 : Series Fault Example

Formula of
Fault Reflection
Reflection Calculation Remarks
Resistance Factor
Factor
1000
Clear
1000 Ω 1000+2 𝑥 24.93 95.25% Positive
X 100% Reflection
𝑅𝑓 250
X X Clear
250 Ω 𝑅𝑓 +2𝑍01 250+2 𝑥 24.93 83.37% Positive
100% 100% Reflection
5
Minimun
5Ω 5+2 𝑥 24.93 9.11% Positive
X 100% Reflection

Page | 14
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

1.2.5 Intermittent / Flashing Fault

An intermittent or flashing fault is where the fault is not apparent to the usual 5 kV
insulation resistance tester and may not breakdown on applied surge from a Surge
Signal Generator (SSG). However, it will show when DC High Voltage is applied.

When a fault is a highly resistive or intermittent and surge voltage from Surge
Signal Generator (SSG) failed to break the fault, then the next step is to apply a high
DC voltage to determine the voltage where the fault breaks down and the fault
condition changes. This Breakdown Voltage shall be recorded as it will be used as
minimum voltage value in applying High Voltage fault pre-location method.

Page| 15
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

1.3 Safety Requirement for Fault Location

Listed are the sub-topic that will be further elaborated in order to conduct a
systematic approach to determine fault location.

 Safety Requirement
 Personal Protective Equipmment (PPE)
 Tool Box Talk
 Permit to Perform Diagnostic Test (Permit Menjalankan Pengujian
Diagnostik – PMPD)

1.3.1 Safety Requirement

Before commencing cable fault locating, all safety requirements in accordance


to TNB Electrical Safety Handbook must be complied.
 Appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) must be worn by all
personnel involved in fault location
 Tool Box Talk based on HIRARC (Hazard Identification Risk Assessment and
Risk Control) must be conducted before starting work
 All necessary permits must be obtained or issued by relevant parties

Page | 16
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

1.3.2 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Below are the relevant PPE provided by TNB for fault location team :-

Table 1.7 : List of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Type of PPE Remarks

Must be worn when


Reflective Vest working outdoor with
traffic hazard

Safety Shoes Must be worn at all times

Must be worn at all times


Safety Helmet **Exception is only during Fault
Locating (Pin Pointing) when
using ground microphone

Must be worn when


Wellington
working in wet/ swampy
Boot
environment

Must be worn when


Working Glove
making connections

Page| 17
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

1.3.3 Tool Box Talk

Toolbox talk must be conducted by team leaders reminding team members on the
scope of work and safety at site. Typical topics shall be covered in HIRADC for cable
fault location and not limited to the following :-

 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)


 Testing Procedure
 High Voltage Equipment (Live)
 Safety Barricade
 Sufficient Lighting
 Permit To Work (PTW)

Page | 18
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

1.3.4 Permit to Perform Diagnostic Test (Permit Menjalankan


Pengujian Diagnostik - PMPD)

Before fault location work can begin, a permit to perform diagnostic test (PMPD)
must be obtained from an Authorized Person responsible for the job. For detailed
process, please refer to latest relevant safety circular.

Figure 1.8 : Examples of PMPD

Page| 19
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

1.4 Fault Location Overview Process

A systematic , efficient, speedy and safe cable fault locating process consist of 5
steps below :-

1 Fault Diagnosis - Process to identify the type of fault

2 Pre - Location - Determine the fault distance

3 Cable Route Tracing - Determine the cable route at site

4 Pin - Pointing - Confirmation of the exact cable fault location

Cable Identification & Confirmation and Re-Test - Determine the


5 faulty cable amongst several cable in trench by following TNB
Guidelines

Figure 1.9 : 5 Main Process in Fault Location

Page | 20
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

Figure 1.10 : Cable Fault Pre-Location Method Selection Flowchart

Figure 1.10 above is the summary of cable fault pre-location method selection
flowchart that can be referred to when performing cable fault pre-location at
site. Details explanation will be further explained in the next following chapter.

Page| 21
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

CHAPTER 2 : FAULT DIAGNOSIS

2.0 Overview of Fault Diagnosis


Cable fault diagnosis is the first step in fault location. It is to determine and
confirm the nature or characteristics of the fault. Accurate fault diagnosis will
assist in making correct logical decisions and avoide mistakes when locating cable
fault. To facilitate accurate and speedy fault diagnosis, all informations related to
the faulty cable should be considered including the following: -

1. Relay Operation/ Type of Fault (OC/EF)


2. Fault Current Value (Download from relay)
3. Test Result During Fault Isolation
4. Type & Size of Cable
5. Cable Length
6. Cable Route Record
7. Cable Route Condition
8. Cable Loading History
9. Weather conditions during fault

Page | 22
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

These informations are needed to ensure easier and effective cable fault
identification. Related information has to be verified at site such as cable types
and cable route condition. After obtaining all the relevant informations, the next
step is to perform fault analysis. The objective of fault analysis is to determine
which of the cable fault pre-location method is best suited to locate the particular
fault.

Cable fault analysis are normally carried out via insulation resistance test, carried
out using a 5 kV insulation resistance tester; and cable continuity check using a
multimeter.

2.1 Fault Analysis

In this topic, two (2) test will be carried out in performing fault analysis. These
two tests that will be explained further are :-

 Insulation Resistance Test


 Continuity Test

Page| 23
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

2.1.1 Insulation Resistance Test


To perform insulation resistance test on the faulty cable section, the intentionally
applied safety earth during fault isolation should be removed from the circuit
(according to TNB Safety Rules). The insulation resistance test should be carried
out with a 5kV insulation resistance tester.

The objectives of insulation resistance test are:-


 To check the condition of insulation for each cable core to earth
o Red-Earth, Yellow-Earth and Blue-Earth
 To check the condition of insulation between phases of cable
o Red-Yellow, Yellow-Blue and Blue-Red

One of the commonly used insulation resistance tester in TNB is shown in Figure
2.1.

Figure 2.1 : Insulation Resistance Tester 5 kV (Brand : Megger)

Page | 24
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

Refer to Appendix I for step by step procedure to perform Insulation


Resistance Test.

2.1.2 Continuity Test

Continuity test should always be performed immediately upon completion of


insulation resistance test. It is to confirm there is no open circuit fault or high
resistance series fault in a cable. This can be done using cable earth by engaging
switchgear earth switch at the far end substation.

Continuity tests should not be done using Insulation Tester, unless it has a
special “continuity” range (usually 0 – 100 Ohms). It is preferable to use low
resistance range in a digital multimeter. The value of conductor resistance
obtained from continuity test can be verified by comparing with the published
conductor resistance from cable manufacturer data sheet as shown below.

Page| 25
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

Figure 2.2 : Multimeter Figure 2.3 : Insulation Resistance Tester

Refer to Appendix II for step by step procedure to perform Continuity


Test.

Page | 26
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

Example: Cable XLPE 240𝒎𝒎𝟐 , 6 km length

Conductor Resistance @ 20°C = 6 km x 0.125 x 2 = 1.5Ω

Conductor Resistance @ 90°C = 6 km x 0.161 x 2 = 1.932Ω

Measured conductor resistance should be between 1.5Ω to 1.932Ω

Table 2.1 : Typical Technical Information from Cable Manufacturer Data Sheet
2
Conductor Size (mm )

Nominal
Cross Parameter Conductor 95 150 240 500 630
Sectional

Max.
Conductor
Ω/km Al 0.320 0.206 0.125 0.0605 0.0469
Resistance
DC at 20°C

Max.
Conductor
Ω/km Al 0.411 0.265 0.161 0.0801 0.0627
Resistance
50Hz at 90°C

Capacitance µF/km Al 0.31 0.36 0.44 0.59 0.32

Current
Rating in
A Al 225 290 380 560 660
Ground at
25°C

Short Circuit
Current for 1 kA Al 9.19 14.4 22.9 47.6 59.8
sec.

Page| 27
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

CHAPTER 3 : FAULT PRE-LOCATION

3.0 Overview of Fault Pre-Location

Fault Pre-Location is a process to roughly determine the location of the cable fault.
The most common method used to pre-locate low resistance fault is the Time
Domain Reflectometry (TDR) Method which is also called Low Voltage fault pre-
location method.

For High Resistance / Intermittent Fault, the Low Voltage pulse from the Time
Domain Reflectometer (TDR) equipment is incapable of returning a clear reflection
due to fault resistance being very much higher than the cable surge impedance, 𝑍0 .
This can clearly be shown by the reflection factor value of almost zero.

The alternative fault pre-location method for high resistance fault is the High
Voltage pre-location method such as Arc Reflection Method (ARM – Seba) or
Secondary Impulse Method / Multiple Impulse Method (SIM / MIM – Baur) or
Impulse Current Method (ICM – Baur, ICE – Seba).

Page | 28
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

Bridge Measurement method is another alternative method suitable for pre-


locating cable fault types where travelling wave technique is not possible. It is
commonly used for locating low voltage cable fault.

High Voltage Bridge Measurement method is an effective fault pre-location


method for locating high resistance fault in single core cable system where the
continuity of the cable metallic sheath cannot be maintained due to situations such
as inaccessibility to cross-bonding link box, missing link box, vandalized link box etc.
which rendered all other pre-location method based on Pulse Echo or Arc
Reflection (TDR, SIM/MIM/ARC, ICE/ICM) impossible.

3.1 Low Voltage Method

One of the methods to pre-locate cable fault is by using low voltage method in
which the main equipment is Time Domain Reflectometry (TDR).

Page| 29
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

3.1.1 Time Domain Reflectometry (TDR)

The Time Domain Reflectometry (TDR) method is the most established and widely
used measuring method for determining:
 Total length of a cable
 Location of low resistive cable faults
 Location of cable interruptions/ open circuit/ breaks
 Location of joints along the cable

A Time Domain Reflectometer (TDR) sends a low voltage pulse into the cable under
test and at any changes in characteristic impedance within the cable will cause a
reflection. The TDR measures the time between release and return of the low
voltage pulse from any reflections. By measuring the time and knowing the
propagating velocity of the pulse in the cable dielectric material, distance to the
reflection can then be calculated. The TDR trace helps to provide information on
the type of characteristic impedance change or failure that could be present in the
cable.

The figure below shows a typical set-up for a TDR measurement. A parallel path of
two conductors is required to determine a reflection graph of a pulse traveling
along a cable. Therefore, one of the leads of the TDR is connected to one phase of
the cable and the other lead is connected to the cable metallic sheath, which is also
connected to ground.

Page | 30
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

The reflection of the pulse is caused by the change in characteristic impedance


between those two paths and every interruption, change of characteristic
impedance, or cable end is indicated on the display trace.

The low voltage pulse travels through the cable and is positively reflected at the
cable end or at any cable interruption (open circuit). At a short circuit point this
low voltage pulse is negatively reflected. A change of the characteristic impedance
in the cable, such as at a joint, it will be displayed as a laid S. The size of the reflected
pulse is dictated by the reflection factor.

Figure 3.1 : Example of TDR Connection and Display Trace

Page| 31
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

Below are a few more examples of typical characteristic impedance changes


occurring in cables and can be seen using TDRs:

Figure 3.2 : Examples of TDR Trace

Page | 32
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

Determining the exact distance of a reflection depends on the time a pulse takes
to travel from the TDR and back along the cable and also the propagation velocity
of the pulse. The determining formula is:

𝑉𝑝
𝐿𝑓 = Tx Equation 3.1
2
Where;
𝐿𝑓 is fault distance of cable,
T is the times taken for pulse to travel from source to fault and back to
source
𝑉𝑝 is the velocity of propagation of electric wave travel in the cable
dielectric

With the TDR connected to the cable section, the TDR measures the time it takes
for the pulse to travel to the end of the cable and return. If the exact length of
cable is known, then the formula above can be used to determine the velocity of
propagation. If the length is not known, as commonly encountered at site, with
known propagation velocity of the cable insulation, again by using the formula
above, the length can be calculated.

Page| 33
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

In real situations, where the faulty cable section is of mixed insulation type, the
exact velocity of propagation cannot be accurately determined. The velocity of
propagation besides depending upon the dielectric or insulation between the two
conductors, it also depends on the condition of the cable, such as metallic sheath
corrosion, water ingress, etc. In these cases, normally a generalised standard
propagation velocity is used with the understanding that a certain error will be
present in the TDR measured fault distance.

𝑉𝑝
TNB uses Velocity of Propagation ( ) = 80 𝑚⁄𝜇𝑠 , taking
2
into consideration most of TNB cable circuits are a mixture
of PILC and XLPE cables. For pure XLPE cable systems, the
𝑉𝑝
more accurate can be used.
2

Page | 34
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

TDR Equipment Used in TNB


These are some common portable and van mounted TDR equipment used by
TNB.

Figure 3.3 : Echometer Baur IRG 3000

Figure 3.4 : Teleflex SebaKMT Figure 3.5 : Echometer IRG 2000

Page| 35
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

Principle of Travelling Wave


The Time Domain Reflectometry (TDR) fault pre-location method is based on the
principle of travelling wave, developed in the late 1940’s. The original acronym,
RADAR (Radio Detection and Ranging), was applied to the method of detecting
distant aircraft and determining their range and velocity by analysing reflections of
radio waves.

The radar produces pulses of radio frequency energy, is basically a time measuring
device. A timer starts counting in microseconds when a pulse of radio frequency
energy leaves the transmitting antenna and then stops when a reflection is
received. The actual time measured is the round trip, out to the target and back.
The speed or Velocity of Propagation (𝑉𝑝 ) of this pulse in air is almost the speed of
light or approximately 300 meters per microsecond.

. The speed of light ≈ 300 𝑚⁄𝜇𝑠

Figure 3.6 : Principle of Travelling Wave

Page | 36
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

When a pulse is injected into the cable, the pulse is reflected back to the source by
any change in the characteristic impedance (𝑍0 ) of the cable. The waveform
generated can then be monitored using an Oscilloscope as shown.

If the velocity of propagation, 𝑉𝑝 (𝑚⁄𝜇𝑠) is taken to be constant for a given cable,


the time interval T (𝜇𝑠) taken for the pulse to travel from the cable terminals to the
fault, 𝐿𝑓 (m) is given by the following formula:

2 𝐿𝑓 = T x 𝑉𝑝 Equation 3.2

𝑉𝑝
𝐿𝑓 = Tx Equation 3.3
2

T (𝜇𝑠)

Cable Metallic Sheath

Cable Core
T
 Cable Metallic Sheath
OSCILLOSCOPE 𝐿𝑓 (m)

Figure 3.7 : Principle of Travelling Wave in Cable

Page| 37
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

Velocity of Propagation
Velocity of Propagation is the measurement of speed of a wave (pulse signal) travel
in a medium at which the wave passes through. The Velocity of Propagation is
defined as:
Vs
Vp = Equation 3.4
√ εr

Where;
𝑉𝑠 is the velocity of light in free space (300 𝑚⁄𝜇𝑠)
𝜀𝑟 is the relative permittivity of dielectric material

Table 3.1 below are the typical velocities of propagation for different dielectric
materials.
Table 3.1 : Typical Velocities of Propagation

Velocity of Propagation
Dielectric Types 𝑽𝒑
𝑽𝒑 (𝑚⁄𝜇𝑠) ) (𝑚⁄𝜇𝑠) )
𝟐

Impregnated Paper 150 – 171 75 – 85


Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) 152 – 175 76 – 87
Polyethylene (PE) Approximately 200 Approximately 100
Cross Linked
156 – 176 78 – 88
Polyethylene (XLPE)
Ethylene Propylene
135 – 171 68 - 86
Rubber (EPR)

Page | 38
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

Refer to Appendix III for step by step procedure to perform TDR


Measurement Test (Baur) and Appendix IV for TDR Measurement Test (Megger)

3.2 High Voltage Method

High resistance fault (𝑅𝑓 > 10𝑍0 ) and transient / intermittent fault could not be
pre-located using low voltage TDR method because the TDR trace could not show
a clear reflection due to minimum characteristic impedance mismatch at the fault
point (reflection factor (r) approaches 0%). High voltage pre-location method
utilised combined high voltage source (Surge Signal Generator, SSG) coupled with
TDR.

This method can be used to locate a high resistance or transient / intermittent fault
without the need to condition the fault using burn down transformer. Fault burning
is proven to be unsuitable for solid plastic insulation cable such as XLPE cable. The
burning could melt the XLPE insulation and further insulate or masks the fault and
make the fault pre-location impossible.

Page| 39
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

The available high voltage fault pre-location method are:-

Transient Voltage Method


1. Secondary Impulse Method (SIM) – Baur
2. Arc Reflection Method (ARM) – Seba / Megger
3. Multiple Impulse Method (MIM) – Baur
Impulse Current Method
1. Impulse Current Method (ICM) – Baur
2. Impulse Current Equipment (ICE) – Seba

Surge Signal Generator (SSG) / Thumper

Surge Signal Generator (SSG) is a high voltage source that enables the application
of high voltage transient fault pre-location method. It is also used to generate a
periodic high voltage surge signal applicable for acoustic pin-pointing method.

The output voltage of the Surge Signal Generator (SSG) is typically adjustable in the
range of 0 – 8 kV, 0 – 16 kV and 0 – 32 kV. For high voltage pre-location, single shot
high voltage pulse is manually triggered by a push button. Pin-pointing the cyclic
high voltage pulse is triggered by a timer controlled surge switch in the Surge Signal
Generator (SSG) set.

Page | 40
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

The high voltage surge is generated by discharging high voltage capacitor into the
faulty cable which can either be direct (single shot) or cyclic (multiple shots)
through a surge switch. To configure the Surge Signal Generator (SSG) into various
output voltage range, the high voltage capacitors are connected either in series or
in parallel.

Typically the configuration of high voltage capacitor in the Surge Signal Generator
(SSG – Baur) are as the following figure in forming the available three voltage
ranges:-

 Range : 0 – 8 kV

Figure 3.8 : 0 - 8 kV Range

 Range : 0 – 16 kV

Figure 3.9 : 0 - 16 kV Range

Page| 41
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

 Range : 0 – 32 kV

Figure 3.10 : 0 - 32 kV Range

Surge Signal Generator (SSG) Range Selection

The output energy that can be delivered by Surge Signal Generator (SSG) is basically
depending on the capacitance (C) of the integrated capacitor bank. The energy
stored (J) in the capacitor is defined by the charging voltage.

1 2
𝐸𝑛𝑒𝑟𝑔𝑦 (𝐽𝑜𝑢𝑙𝑒𝑠) = 𝐶𝑉 Equation 3.5
2

The energy of the high voltage impulse delivered by the Surge Signal Generator
(SSG) will determine the intensity of flashover at the fault point.

Page | 42
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

This value is very important to maintain a stable flashover required for


successfully applying the transient fault pre-location method (SIM / MIM / ARM)
or Impulse Current Method (ICM / ICE). The high voltage surge delivered by the
Surge Signal Generator (SSG) should have enough high energy to cause flashover
at the fault point in creating a loud flashover noise to be detected by acoustic
fault pin-pointing method. The higher the discharge energy, the flashover noise
will be higher.

Figure 3.11 Graph of Surge Voltage Level vs Energy Released

Depending on the value of the fault’s flashover voltage, the correct selection of
voltage range is very important to enable the delivery of maximum surge energy
to the fault.

Page| 43
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

This is clearly demonstrated in the graph shown above. For example, if a fault
flashover is at 8 kV, with the Surge Signal Generator (SSG) setting at 32 kV range,
the energy delivered to the fault is only 62 Joules. If the range is set at 16 kV, the
energy delivered to the fault is only 250 Joules. By setting the Surge Signal
Generator (SSG) range to 8 kV, full output energy (1000 Joules) will be delivered to
the fault and the flashover will produce maximum acoustic signal at the fault point
that can be clearly picked up by the ground microphone placed over the fault.

3.2.1 Secondary Impulse Method / Multiple Impulse Method (SIM /


MIM)
The high resistance / intermittent fault cannot be pre-located by means of the low
voltage TDR method. The low voltage pulse sent out by the TDR is not reflected at
the fault point, as the fault impedance compared to the insulation impedance of
the healthy core of the cable is not significantly lower.

The Secondary Impulse Method (SIM) is commonly used for pre-locating high
resistance or flashing / intermittent fault. In this method, a single high voltage
impulse is generated by the Surge Signal Generator (SSG) into the fault and it is
possible to change the high fault resistance temporary into a short circuit
(flashover, temporary low resistance fault condition) and therefore can only be
detected by a second low voltage TDR pulse. The low voltage TDR pulse is coupled
to the high voltage output of the Surge Signal Generator (SSG) via the coupling unit.

Page | 44
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

Figure 3.12 : Connection Diagram for SIM Method

Source: Baur

When applying high voltage secondary impulse pre-location method (SIM), the first
measurement before applying high voltage impulse will indicate a TDR trace with
the positive reflection of the cable end. Raise the voltage at Surge Signal Generator
(SSG) to greater than the measured breakdown voltage, triggered high voltage
impulse to be sent to the faulty cable. The high voltage impulse will cause the high
resistance / intermittent fault to breakdown and creates a low resistive arc. The
second measurement shows the TDR trace with a negative reflection from the
arcing fault.

Page| 45
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

Figure 3.13 : SIM Graph Measurement

The flashover of fault by the high voltage impulse can be very unpredictable
depending on the cable length and the condition of the fault i.e., water in joint.
This makes synchronising the low voltage pulse from TDR with the flashover of the
fault becomes very difficult. Hence, the TDR may not record the faulty trace. Baur
improved the method by introducing Multiple Impulse Method (MIM), in which
many TDR pulses (up to 20) are simultaneously sent down the cable with the high
voltage impulse in order to increase the possibility of having one or more TDR
pulses reflected at the low resistive arcing fault.

Page | 46
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

Presence of water in cable or joint can cause ignition of the breakdown of the cable
fault to be delayed and can also quickly extinguish the flashover. By sending a
sequence of TDR pulses with different trigger delays, a larger monitoring window
can be monitored and will increase the likelihood of one or more TDR pulses
reflected at the arc.

Figure 3.14 : Illustration of MIM Fault Pre-Location Process

Page| 47
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

Figure 3.15 : MIM Pre-Location Trace

Refer to Appendix V for step by step procedure to perform Secondary


Impulse Method / Multiple Impulse Method (SIM / MIM) High Voltage
Pre-Location Method (Baur).

Page | 48
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

3.2.2 Arc Reflection Method (ARM)

This fault pre-location method developed by Seba / Megger is similar to Multiple


Impulse Method (MIM) by Baur, where the high voltage impulse from the Surge
Signal Generator (SSG) is discharged into the fault with the TDR meter coupled to
the high voltage signal by energy separation filter. The arc stabilisation unit
introduced in this system maintain the flashover arc for a longer duration hence
ensures the TDR can easily locate the fault.

The ARM pre – location method is particularly well suited for shorter cable length
(up to 5 km) and lower breakdown voltage up to 12 kV.

Figure 3.16 : Simplified Diagram for the ARM Pre-Location Connection

Page| 49
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

Figure 3.17 : Fault Trace by ARM Pre-Location Method

Refer to Appendix VI for step by step procedure to perform Arc Reflection


Method (ARM) High Voltage Pre-Location Method (Megger).

Page | 50
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

3.2.3 Impulse Current Method / Equipment (ICM / ICE)

TDR cable fault pre-location method is affected by damping of the low voltage
pulse in very long cables, reflections at joints and other characteristic impedance
changes along the cable, or by corrosion of the cable metallic sheath. In extreme
cases, the pulse from the Time Domain Reflectometer (TDR) may damp to such a
degree that the reflection pulse is not detectable. The Impulse Current Method
(ICM) is a better alternative method for fault pre – location of much longer cable.

To conduct Impulse Current Method (ICM) fault pre-location, an inductive coupling


unit is connected to the metallic sheath of the Surge Signal Generator (SSG) output
cable. The Surge Signal Generator (SSG) / Thumper releases a HV impulse that
causes the fault position to break down, hence creates a transient current wave
traveling along the cable metallic sheath between the Surge Signal Generator (SSG)
and the cable fault. The initial impulse is emitted as a negative pulse and every
reflection at the fault position and generator causes a reversal in polarity, as both
positions are low resistive points of reflection.

Page| 51
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

Figure 3.18 : Illustrations of ICM Connection, Arc Reflection Sequence and Typical
Reflection Traces

The first impulse reflection is sometimes influenced by the ignition delay time of
the fault breakdown. The distance to the fault can be taken as the distance
between the 2nd and 3rd pulse or 3rd and 4th pulse or 4th and 5th pulse. There is
damping of the signals over time, so further pulses should not be analysed as it
would lead to inaccurate results. As the pulse width of the transient current pulse
is very wide, the ICM method is only accurate for very long cables. For short cables,
the transient pulses influence each other and causes difficulty in reflection trace
interpretations.

Page | 52
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

Figure 3.19 : Example of ICM Reflection Trace and Measurement of Fault Distance

Refer to Appendix VII for step by step procedure to perform ICM High
Voltage Pre-Location Method (Baur) and Appendix VIII for ICE High
Voltage Pre-Location Method (Megger).

Page| 53
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

3.2.4 Decay Method

Decay Method is an alternative method to Impulse Current Method (ICM) method.


This is because sometimes the breakdown voltage of the fault may be higher than
the rated output of the Surge Signal Generator (SSG) / Thumper (> 32 kV). In this
case a VLF or DC source with higher voltage output needs to be used as the high
voltage source. The faulted cable is charged by applying high voltage VLF or DC
until the fault breaks down. Cable capacitance stores the energy, and once
breakdown occur, a transient wave is created that travels between the cable fault
and the high voltage source. The transient wave is recorded by TDR via a capacitive
coupler and the recorded period of oscillation is equal to the fault distance.
Compared to the Impulse Current Method (ICM) method above, the decay method
is based on a transient voltage wave that is continuously recorded by the TDR
connected via the capacitive coupler.

The sequence below describes the steps during the decay method pre - location.
The cable is charged with negative voltage and the flashover at the cable fault
creates a positive discharge transient wave that travels towards the near end of
the cable. At the high voltage source, the pulse is reflected without any polarity
change. Once the pulse travels back to the cable fault, the pulse is reflected and
the polarity changes. This process is repeated until the pulse dampens and loses
energy.

Page | 54
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

Figure 3.20 : Illustrations of Decay Method, Surge Voltage Transient Reflection Sequence
and Typical Reflection Traces

Page| 55
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

3.3 Bridge Measurement Method

Fault pre-location by Bridge Measurement Method is suitable for all categories


of shunt fault only, measurement is made by balancing two internal resistance
arms (𝑅𝑎 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑅𝑏 ) , against the two external resistance arms
(𝑅𝑥 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑅𝑦 ) represented by the length of cable conductors up to the fault.

In order to create the external loop as zero Ohms, short circuits must be made at
the remote end between a healthy core and the faulty core as shown in Figure
3.21. This configuration is called the Murray Loop Test.

L
Ra

Rb

Figure 3.21 : Murray Loop Test for Earth Fault

At balanced condition, the ratio of internal resistance arms is the same as the
external resistance arms.

Page | 56
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

𝑅𝑎 𝑅𝑥
= Equation 3.6
𝑅𝑏 𝑅𝑦
and
𝑅𝑎 𝑅𝑥
= Equation 3.7
𝑅𝑎 +𝑅𝑏 𝑅𝑥 + 𝑅𝑦

As the cable has a constant resistance per unit length, x and y can be considered as
lengths. The location of the fault as a fraction of loop length is given by:-

𝑅𝑎 (𝑅𝑥 + 𝑅𝑦 ) 𝑅𝑎
𝑥= 𝑜𝑟 𝑥 = (2𝐿) Equation 3.8
𝑅𝑎 + 𝑅𝑏 𝑅𝑎 + 𝑅𝑏

As the location of the fault depends on the linearity of resistance per unit length
along the cable core, the main disadvantage of this method is the pre-requisite
conditions needed for this method can be applied such as the cable core cross
sectional area must be consistent and the quality of loop connection between the
healthy and faulty cores must be good.

Page| 57
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

With constant core cross sectional area and good looping, the Murray Loop Test
can achieve a very accurate fault pre-location. Bridge Measurement Methods are
basically used for pre-location of low resistance fault. Using a high voltage source
that is integrated in the latest generation of bridge measuring equipment, high
resistance fault can also be easily pre-located.

The High Voltage Bridge Measurement fault pre-location method is the most
suitable method for pre-location on high resistance or intermittent fault on single
core cable systems where TDR and other High Voltage fault pre-location methods
are not possible due to interruptions to the cable metallic sheath by situations such
as cross bonding link box being inaccessible, missing or vandalised.

There are other variation of bridge measuring circuits such as Glaser which can be
used for pre-location of cable sheath fault and unshielded plastic low voltage cable.
Detailed connection and operational steps should refer to equipment Original
Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) Manual.

Page | 58
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

CHAPTER 4 : CABLE ROUTE TRACING

4.0 Overview of Cable Route Tracing

Cable route tracing is to determine the exact route of the underground cable.
Unless an accurate cable route map / as built drawing is available, cable route
tracing is a very important step prior to cable fault pin pointing. Accurate cable
route enables accurate measurement of fault distance based on pre-location
results and this will reduce the areas / distance to cover hence saving time
needed for pin-pointing.

Cable route tracing techniques consists of Passive Live Cable Tracing and Active
Cable Route Tracing that will be further explained in Chapter 4.2 and 4.3.

4.1 Cable Route Tracing Equipment

Cable route tracing equipment consists of two main components and its
associated accessories.

 Transmitter
 Receiver

Page| 59
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

Figure 4.1 : RD 8000

Transmitter / Audio Frequency Generator

The Transmitter generates audio frequency signal to be transmitted into the cable
for active cable route tracing. It has a range of frequencies for selection and the
selection is based on the length of cable to be traced and method of signal
connection. Methods to couple the audio frequency signal to the target cable are
galvanic / direct connection, clamp on induction and frame antenna induction. The
low frequency range is normally used for direct connection and tracing of long
cables.

Page | 60
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

In using this mode, it must be careful to prevent from injecting too high signal
current, as it may cause induction to surrounding cables or metal objects which
may subsequently cause error in tracing. The medium range frequency is suitable
for clamp-on induction connection. The high frequency range is more suitable in
tracing short length cable by direct connection because it gives high resolution in
signal detection. It is also used for frame antenna induction connection where
signal injection by Galvanic Connection or Clamp on Inductive Connection is not
possible.

Figure 4.2 : RD 8000 (Radio Detection) Figure 4.3 : Metrotech i5000

Page| 61
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

Receiver / Locator

The receiver contains sensors that detect the electromagnetic field (signals); these
sensors are also known as antennas. The signal induces a response in the antennas
by electromagnetic induction. Modern receiver has several antennas in different
combinations. Each combination (known as Modes) provides a different types of
response. The most common responses for general locating are “Peak” and “Null”.

Figure 4.4 : Metrotech i5000 Figure 4.5 : RD Route Tracer

Page | 62
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

“Peak / Maximum” Mode


“Peak / Maximum” mode provides a maximum response when the receiver is
directly over the targeted cable.

“Null / Minimum” Mode


“Null / Minimum” mode provides a minimum response when the receiver is
directly over the targeted cable.

Minimum / Null Mode Maximum / Peak Mode

Figure 4.6 : Maximum and Minimum Mode Illustrations

Page| 63
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

4.2 Passive Live Cable Tracing

Passive live cable tracing detects power frequency electromagnetic signal emitting
from live cables carrying load current without making use of the transmitter. It is
often used to scan and trace the location of unidentified buried live cable before
digging to avoid accidental damage to the cable. It is not intended to be used for
identifying or tracing a specific cable. The ease of locating a live cable is very much
influenced by the load current flow in the cable, where the electromagnetic signal
strength varies with the load current flow in the cable. Passive live cable tracing
might not be detecting any energised cable without any carrying current.

4.3 Active Cable Route Tracing

A successful, speedy cable fault location relies on knowing the exact routes of the
cable where the possible fault location from pre-location can be accurately
measured and marked prior to pin-pointing. If the exact route of the underground
cable is unknown, magnetic frequency cable route tracing equipment can be used
to trace and mark the cable route.

Page | 64
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

To conduct cable route tracing, an audio frequency generator can be connected to


a healthy phase of the faulted cable via galvanic connection, clamp on inductive
connection with a clip-on CT clamp, or inductive connection with a frame antenna.
Galvanic connection is the best method as the best signal strength can be obtained.
However, an inductive connection may be necessary in areas or circumstances in
which a galvanic connection is not possible, such as tracing cable route of live
cables that could not be shutdown. For galvanic connection, a lower frequency
signal with not too high signal current is advisable to minimise inductive coupling
into other cables. When audio frequency signal coupling by inductive method, a
higher coupling effect is required and therefore a higher frequency signal should
be chosen.

Galvanic / Direct Connection

The most effective connection for cable route tracing is galvanic / direct
connection. It enables the strongest signal injection and hence improve the tracing
result. In this method, the audio frequency signal generated by the audio frequency
generator is directly transmitted onto the target cable. The connection between
the audio frequency generators to the cable core must be in good contact. The
signal is generated by the current flow from the signal generator which travels
along the cable conductors and back to the transmitter. For this method to work,
the targeted cable must be de-energized and earthed at the far end.

Page| 65
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

The current uses the ground and the earthing spike to complete the circuit. The
ground return earthing spike must be positioned perpendicular to the cable to be
traced. The earthing spike should be buried deep enough in the ground so that it
increases the surface contact of the soil, the intensity / strength of the signal
depends on good earthing connection.

To successfully trace the cable route, correct selection of signal frequency is very
important as the injected audio frequency signal will be attenuated by losses of the
signal strength. Injecting lower audio frequency signal will enable longer tracing
distance with less coupling effect to adjacent cables or other conductive metal
objects.

When tracing cable route with Galvanic / Direct Connection, try to avoid possibility
of signal current return to the signal generator / transmitter via the targeted
cable’s metallic sheath, as the return current signal may cancel the signal strength
of the injected signal hence producing very small resultant signal which may not be
easily detected by the receiver.

Page | 66
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

Figure 4.7 : Illustration of Galvanic / Direct Connection

Figure 4.8 : Principle of Cable Route Tracing by Direct Connection

Page| 67
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

Inductive Connection (Clamp On)

In situations where galvanic / direct connection is not possible due to inaccessibility


to cable termination or the target cable cannot be shutdown, the inductive clamp
on connection method can be used. For this method, the audio frequency signal is
injected into the target cable by induction using a CT clamp over the target cable.
The CT clamp acts as the primary and the targeted cable conductors as the
secondary of a transformer. For this method to work, normally the medium range
injection frequency is used and metallic sheath of the target cable must be earthed
at both ends with low earthing resistance.

Figure 4.9 : Inductive Connection (Clamp) at Joint Pit

Page | 68
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

Figure 4.10 : Inductive Connection (Clamp) at Cable End

Inductive Connection (Frame Antenna)

In cases of long cable where the direct connection or clamp on connection at the
terminal of the cable is not possible, tracing cable route can be carried out by
injecting audio frequency signal from the signal generator / transmitter using
inductive / frame antenna method. The signal generator / transmitter is placed
directly inline over the targeted cable and high frequency range signal is selected.
To avoid interference to the receiver, the signal generator must be placed at least
5 meters away from the receiver.

Page| 69
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

Figure 4.11 : Illustration of Inductive Connection (Frame Antenna) at Site

Table 4.1 : Various Type Connection of Transmitter Signal

Condition Method

Accessible to termination
Galvanic / Direct Connection
(Shut Down)

Inaccessible to termination Inductive Connection (Clamp)

Live Cable Inductive Connection (Clamp)

Inductive Connection
Far from Cable End (Frame Antenna) / Clamp in Trial
Hole

Page | 70
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

4.4 General Guide for Successful Cable Tracing

In order to have successful cable tracing, the following tips are helpful.

1. Make sure transmitter battery is fully / sufficiently charged or


accessible to AC Source.
2. Make sure receiver battery is fully / sufficiently charged.
3. Apply Direct Connection / Galvanic Connection for maximum signal
strength transmission.
4. Signal connection must be connected to sound core of the cable.
5. Ensure the far end of the cable is properly earthed.
6. Ensure transmitter earth connection is good by either connecting to
earthing spike or substation main earth.
7. Select correct signal frequency suitable for the length of cable to be
traced. Table 4.2 recommends the suitable frequency to be used based
on cable length:-

Page| 71
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

Table 4.2 : Recommended Signal Frequency Based on Cable Length

Frequency Cable Length

Low (<1 kHz) Long Length Cable

Medium (<10 kHz) Medium Length Cable

High (<75 kHz) Short Length Cable

8. Pairing the transmitter and receiver frequency if necessary.


9. Do not apply too high transmitter output to avoid induction to other
metallic structure that can cause confusion.
10. Start the cable tracing from the source to avoid picking up induced
signal on wrong cables / metallic structure.

For full understanding and improvement in cable route tracing, the cable route
tracer manufacturer operation manual is a good reference and regular practice will
improve competency in cable tracing.

Page | 72
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

CHAPTER 5 : PIN-POINTING

5.0 Overview of Pin-Pointing

Pin-Pointing is the application of tests that positively confirmed the exact location
of the fault over ground. The most common method of pin-pointing:-

1. Acoustic / Shock Wave Discharge / Thumping


2. Magnetic Field Detection / Electromagnetic Surge Detection
3. Pool of Potential / Step Voltage

5.1 Acoustic / Shock Wave Discharge / Thumping

This is the most commonly used method for pin-pointing power cable fault. The
Surge Signal Generator (SSG) connected to the faulty core of the cable delivers a
high voltage surge into the cable at a selected frequency typically once every 1 to
10 seconds. Most people would select discharge rate of 1 at every 3 or 4 seconds.
If the selected discharge frequency is too high, the fault locating technician may
walk past the fault without picking up the discharge. If the discharge frequency is
set too fast i.e. 1 every second, this may not give the Surge Signal Generator (SSG)
time to charge up the capacitor hence limiting the energy available to discharge at
the fault point.

Page| 73
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

It is a good practice to measure the fault resistance before connecting the Surge
Signal Generator (SSG), then connect and start the Surge Signal Generator (SSG).
When the Surge Signal Generator (SSG) is connected to the faulty cable, it is not
advisable to rush over to the possible fault location as indicated by the pre-location
reading to listen for the acoustic signal. Allow the Surge Signal Generator (SSG) to
run for a few minutes, switch off, disconnect and measure the fault resistance
again. If the fault resistance is in kilo Ohms range, this confirms the surge from the
Surge Signal Generator (SSG) is consistently discharged at the fault and acoustic
noise will be generated.

Sometimes, the fault is unstable and this can be seen by the intermittent
discharging indicated by the Surge Signal Generator (SSG) volt meter that does not
drop towards 0 reading after each shot. This can be overcomed by switching off
the Surge Signal Generator (SSG) and re-start surging / thumping at a higher
voltage.

For acoustic pin-pointing method to be effective, the fault locating technician must
put the ground microphone directly over the cable fault point. This can only be
assured by positively marking the cable route by cable tracing. It is a good practice
to mark the cable route with highly visible markings such as spray painting at
intervals of 2 to 3 meters spacing for about 2% of cable routes length on each side
of pre - location distance.

Page | 74
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

5.2 Magnetic Field Detection / Electromagnetic Surge Detection

When a high voltage surge signal is discharged into the faulty cable, a very high
energy steep fronted surge wave pulse travels down the faulty cable, and as the
surge pulse travels along the cable, electromagnetic signal is created by the current
generated by the surge.

Modern pin-pointing equipment is also equipped with pickup coil that can detect
electromagnetic signal. The strength of the electromagnetic signal indicates the
relative position of the pickup coil over the faulty cable. This can sometimes be
used as a guide to cable route tracing. Some pin-pointing equipment has displays
or visual indications of the electromagnetic signal and in some cases, capable of
measuring the time lag between the electromagnetic signal and acoustic signal.
The fault pre-location technician can make use of this function to guide them on
the correct cable route while trying to pick up the acoustic signal at the fault point.

Page| 75
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

5.3 Pool of Potential / Step Voltage

Cable sheath faults or short circuit faults to ground does not cause a flashover
when a high voltage surge signal is sent into the cable, and therefore, acoustic fault
pin-pointing method cannot be used. This situation also commonly occured when
the cable fault is ingressed with water. In this case, a sequence of voltage impulses
is sent into the faulted cable, which produces a pool of potential at the fault point.
The pool of potential is the voltage drop / voltage gradient radiating from the fault
point. This voltage gradient can be measured using two earth probes above
ground.

When walking towards the fault, an increasing voltage should be detected and
immediately over the fault point a detectable polarity change will be indicated. The
fault location is confirmed by zero volt indication when the earth probes are placed
symmetrically above the fault. To determine the exact location of the fault, the
voltage probes is rotated 900 perpendicular to the original position; when zero volt
indication intersects the original location, this will indicate the exact fault location
is at the intersection.

Page | 76
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

5.4 Pin-Pointing Equipment

Pin-Pointing equipment for location of fault by acoustic signal detection consists


of:-
1. Receiver / Amplifier Unit with:-
 Magnetic signal display to indicate the flow of signal current as well
as guide to the cable route.
 Acoustic signal display to indicate the strength of the acoustic signal
picked up by the ground microphone.
2. Ground Microphone is the acoustic signal transducer to sense the
acoustic signal generated by flashover of high voltage surge signal at the
fault point. The acoustic signal picked up by the ground microphone is fed
to the receiver unit for acoustic signal display and to the headphone for
audible identification by the operator.
3. Headphones is used by the operator to receive and positively identify the
acoustic signal picked up by the ground microphone at the exact fault
point.

Refer to Appendix IX for step by step procedure to perform Pin-Pointing


(Baur) and Appendix X for Pin-Pointing (Megger).

Page| 77
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

Some pin-pointing equipment commonly used by TNB are as follows:-

Headphones KH20

Locator UL30 (Receiver / Amplifier)

Ground Microphone BM30

Figure 5.1: Baur UL30-BM30 Pin-Pointing Equipment

Indicating Unit

Headphones
Ground Microphone

Receiver Unit

Figure 5.2 : Megger Digiphone+ Surge Wave Receiver

Page | 78
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

CHAPTER 6 : CABLE IDENTIFICATION

6.0 Overview of Cable Identification

Cable identification is an important safety step in cable fault location especially


when there are multiple cables in the same trench, where the faulty cable need to
be specifically identified among other live cables. Unless the faulty point can be
positively confirmed by physical damage to the cable core, the faulty cable should
be identified by using an approved cable identification equipment.

Even with confirmation by cable identification equipment, the cable should never
be cut with a hacksaw and it should be spiked first by using an approved cable
spiking equipment before cutting or alternatively cut the cable using an approved
live line cable cutter.

Note: Always observe TNB Safety Guidelines when cutting cable

Page| 79
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

6.1 Cable Identification Equipment

Cable Identification equipment typically consists of the following components:-


 Transmitter (TxCi)
 Receiver (RxCi)
 Flexible Clamp
 Inductive Sensor Flexible Clamp

Transmitter (TxCi) Receiver (RxCi)

Refer to Appendix XI for step by step procedure to perform Cable


Identification.

Page | 80
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

CHAPTER 7 : FAULT CONFIRMATION & RE-TEST

7.0 Introduction
In this chapter, a general explanation on how to perform fault confirmation is
elaborated in Chapter 7.1 and re-test general guidelines based on common issue
at site is further explained in Chapter 7.2.

7.1 Fault Confirmation

When the fault is pin-pointed, the location is clearly marked with spray painting.
The location will be excavated to expose the fault. Excavation should be carried out
with proper supervision so that no accidental damage to the cable or other cables
which might exist at the same location. Accidental damage to any existing live cable
can have safety consequences to the excavation machine operator as well as
interruptions of supply to large number of customers. If multiple cables are found
during excavation and faulty cable could not be positively identified by physical
damage on the cable, further cable identification process need to be carried out.

Page| 81
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

Even if there is only one cable or the fault can be visually identified, the best
practice is to repeat the thumping process or to perform cable identification in
order to confirm the right cable and also to physically observe any flashover nearby
the fault point.

It is a good practice to take photographs when the faulty core is exposed. This is
important if the fault is caused by third party damage and the photograph could
be used as evidence when processing claims.

7.2 Re-Test

Once the fault has been identified and faulty portion is cut, the cable section need
to be re-test by performing Continuity Test and Insulation Resistance Test to
confirm and identified the right cable.

It is also must never be assumed that the remaining parts of the cable is healthy.
Further test need to be carried out between the cable cut towards left and right of
the cable cut area to confirm the fault is removed and there is no other fault in the
cable. In case further test shows fault still exist, further fault location must be
carried out and each should be treated as a separate case. The advantages is the
cable route, route length and Velocity of Propagation (VOP) is known from the first
fault location.

Page | 82
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

Table 7.1 : Common Issue at Site and Solution

Issue Solution

Multiple Cable In Trench Cable Route Tracing & Cable Identification

Cables are Visually Good Cable Identification & Cable Spike

No Cable In Trench Cable Route Tracing

Cut cable at the end of pipe, draw out cable &


Cable Fault Inside Pipe
find the fault

When the fault is confirmed, cable has to be cut and repaired. After repairing, re-
test the cable to make sure the cable is in good condition.

Refer to Appendix XII for step by step procedure to perform Fault Confirmation
& Re-Test (Baur) and Appendix XIII for step by step procedure to perform Fault
Confirmation & Re-Test (Megger).

Page| 83
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

CHAPTER 8 : REPAIR, TESTING & RE-COMMISSIONING

8.0 Introduction
This chapter will explain more on repair work that has to be done after fault
confirmation and re-test. After repair work has been completed, the next step is to
perform testing and commissioning.

8.1 Repair
After the cable fault point being cut out and further test confirmed there is no
other fault in the cable, repair works can begin. A short length cable is laid to
connect the healthy portion of the cable. The cable used must be of same type, size
and design or alternatively replaced with compatible cable specification and size.
Cable joint pits are used as connection points to connect the short length cable
with the existing cable. The type of joint kits used must be TNB approved type and
installed by certified jointers. Before installation of joints, dead phasing using
approved method such as resistance box must be carried out by TNB Qualified
Person (QP) or Suruhanjaya Tenaga (ST) Authorized Person (AP). The identified
phases must be clearly marked by colour tapes and handed to jointers to proceed
with the installation of joints.

Page | 84
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

8.2 Testing & Re-Commissioning

When the repair joint is completed by jointers, the Permit To Work (PTW) is
cancelled and TNB QP should conduct testing to confirm the repair work is properly
done and the cable section is ready to be re-commissioned.

8.2.1 Testing

One or more of the following tests should be carried out after completion of
jointing works:-
 Insulation Resistance Test (IR Test)
 Offline Partial Discharge (PD) Mapping
 On Soak 24 hours
 Monitored Withstand Test (MWT) / Very Low Frequency (VLF)

Note: All test result must be recorded in the fault location log sheet.

The personnel responsible for locating and repairing cable fault also needs to
report the fault in the LGB Net (Laporan Gangguan Bekalan) system with all the
necessary informations as required by system. This report would allow TNB to
conduct statistical analysis on the fault over time.

Page| 85
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

The analysis would provide powerful input to engineering management and input
to policy decisions such as improvement to cable or it’s accessories design and
installation practices. It can also be an input for identification of training
requirement to underground cable teams for reliability performance improvement
of underground cable system.

8.2.2 Re-Commissioning

When the repaired cable has passed all necessary re-commissioning test, TNB
Qualified Person (QP) will report back to the Distribution System Operator (DSO)
and cancel the authorization for repair of the cable fault issued to him. The cable
section is officially returned to Distribution System Operator (DSO) to resume the
existing system. The re-commissioning of the repaired cable section can be verified
either via SCADA by Control Engineers from control room or locally by TNB
Qualified Person (QP) under the instructions of the DSO Control Engineer.

Note: During re-commissioning process, all relevant TNB Safety Rules must be strictly
adhered.

Page | 86
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

List of References

1. Underground Cable Fault Location


Author: Barry Clegg
Publisher: McGraw-Hill Book Company
Year Published: 1993

2. Cable Fault Location in LV,MV and HV Underground Cable Network – Practical


Experience
Author: Ing. Tobias Neier
Publisher: Baur

3. The Theory of Buried Pipe and Cable Location


Publisher: Radio Detection, UK

4. Cable Fault Location


TNB Distribution Engineering Manual

5. Cable Fault Location in Power Cables


Publisher: Seba KMT

6. Cable Fault Location with BAUR Syscompact 2000


Publisher: Baur

7. Using The Surge Wave Generators


Publisher: Seba KMT

8. Impulse Current Method (ICM)

9. Publisher: Baur Operating Manual for Impulse Current Equipment


Publisher: Biccotest Limited, UK.

Page| 87
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX I – INSULATION RESISTANCE TEST

Step-By-Step Procedures to Perform Insulation


Resistance (IR) Test

Following are the step-by-step procedures to perform insulation resistance test


using Megger IR Tester.

CONTROL BUTTONS

1 3

10
4
9

8 5

7 6

Page | 88
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX I – INSULATION RESISTANCE TEST

1. Positive (+) terminal


2. Guard terminal
3. Negative (-) terminal
4. Four arrow buttons and OK button
5. TEST button with associated HV warning lamp
6. Backlight button
7. Central rotary switch
8. Test mode rotary switch
9. LED indicating line power / mains
10. Display

IR TESTER DISPLAY

Page | 89
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX I – INSULATION RESISTANCE TEST

11. IR Test Mode


12. Test Voltage
13. Resistance Result
14. Timer
15. Battery indicator
16. Scale
17. Caution: Risk of Electric Shock
18. Test Current

ACCESSORIES

Test Leads

Page | 90
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX I – INSULATION RESISTANCE TEST

INSULATION RESISTANCE (IR) TEST STEP BY STEP

Step 1

Setting up Insulation Resistance


(IR) Tester

 Insert Red Clip to Positive


(+) Terminal.
 Insert Black Clip to
Negative
(-) Terminal.

Page | 91
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX I – INSULATION RESISTANCE TEST

Step 2(a)

Cable Connection at VCB Spout


CAUTION!
ENSURE NEAR END & FAR END
Connection at
(VCB) IS IN “EARTH OFF”
the Phase
POSITION.

 Red Clip connects to VCB


earthing bar.
 Black Clip connects to the
Connection at VCB
Earthing Bar core.

Phase to Earth Connection

 Black Clip connects to


one of the cores.
 Red Clip connects to
another core.

Phase to Phase Connection

Page | 92
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX I – INSULATION RESISTANCE TEST

Step 2(b)

Cable Connection at RMU Test


Bushing

CAUTION!
Connection at
the Phase ENSURE NEAR END & FAR END
(RMU) IS IN “EARTH OFF”
POSITION.
 Red Clip connects to
substation earthing bar.
 Black Clip connects to the
Connection at
Earthing Bar core.

Phase to Earth Connection

 Black Clip connects to


one of the cores.

 Red Clip connects to


another core.

Phase to Phase Connection

Page | 93
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX I – INSULATION RESISTANCE TEST

Step 3
Perform Insulation Resistance
(IR) Test

To Select “Test Voltage”

 Rotate “Central Rotary


Switch” from OFF to 5kV
range.

Step 4

To Perform IR Test (Phase to


Earth)

 Red – Earth
 Yellow – Earth
 Blue – Earth

To Perform IR Test (Phase to


Phase)

 Red – Yellow
Test Mode Test  Yellow – Blue
Rotary Switch Button  Blue – Red

Page | 94
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX I – INSULATION RESISTANCE TEST

 Rotate “Test Mode


Rotary Switch” to select
IR mode by turning the
dial.
 Press “Test” button to
start testing (minimum 1
minute or until stable
reading is achieved).
 Press “Test” button again
to stop Testing.

Test Mode Rotary Test Button


 Record the reading into
Switch the test sheet (attached
in Appendix XIV – Fault
Analysis Test Sheet).

CAUTION!
ENSURE TO DISCHARGE CABLE
AFTER TEST.

Page | 95
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX II – CONTINUITY TEST

Step-By-Step Procedures to Perform Continuity


Test
Following are the step-by-step procedures to perform continuity test using Fluke
Multimeter.

CONTINUITY TEST STEP BY STEP

Step 1

Connection of Test Leads (Phase


to Phase)

CAUTION!
 ENSURE NEAR END (VCB
/ RMU) IS IN “EARTH
OFF” POSITION.
 ENSURE FAR END (VCB /
RMU) IS IN “EARTH ON”
POSITION / PREFERABLY
LOOPED.

 Red – Yellow
Connection at VCB
 Yellow – Blue
 Blue – Red

Page | 96
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX II – CONTINUITY TEST

 Black Clip connects to the


core.
 Red Clip connects to
another core.

Connection at RMU

Step 2

To Set up the Multimeter

 Red lead – Ohm


 Black lead – COMMON

Note: Ensure battery is sufficient


and test leads are in good
condition.

Page | 97
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX II – CONTINUITY TEST

Step 3

To Select Test Mode

 Rotate “Central Mode


Switch” from OFF to
resistance measurement
function (Ω).

Step 4

To Measure Test Lead Resistance

 Short these red lead and


black lead together
(let these two leads
touching each other).
 Record the reading.

Page | 98
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX II – CONTINUITY TEST

Step 5

To Perform Continuity Test


(Phase to Phase)

 Place test leads to the

Connection at VCB
cores as below:-

 Red – Yellow
 Yellow – Blue
 Blue – Red

Connection at RMU

Notes:

 The conductor resistance =


(Measured Resistance Value – Test Lead Resistance)
2

 Compare the calculated conductor resistance using Table 2.1.

Note: Record all insulation resistance test and continuity test result in the Fault
Analysis Test Sheet – Appendix XIV.

Page | 99
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX III – TDR MEASUREMENT (BAUR)

Step-By-Step Procedures to Perform TDR


Measurement (Baur)

Following are the step-by-step procedures to measure TDR using Baur IRG 2000.

CONTROLS BUTTONS / KNOB

TDR Meter (BAUR IRG 2000)

1. “MENU” : To enter menu


2. “CURSOR” : To display cursor toolbar
3. “FUNCTION” : To display the echogram function toolbar
4. “COMPARE” : To enter compare toolbar
5. “KNOB” rotary knob + switch : Allows the user to select various
options by rotating it CW or CCW, and to select by pushing it
6. “BACK” : Exits to the upper menu level
7. “I/O” : Turns the device ON and OFF

Page | 100
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX III – TDR MEASUREMENT (BAUR)

TDR MEASUREMENT (BAUR) STEP BY STEP

Step 1

Setting up the instrument IRG 2000

 Plug in the TDR Probe to the


socket.

Step 2(a)

HV Test Lead Connection at VCB


Spout

To check total cable length:-

 Connect test lead (black clip)


to VCB earthing bar.
 Connect test lead (red clip)
to the healthy core.

Page | 101
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX III – TDR MEASUREMENT (BAUR)

To pre-locate fault distance:-

 Connect test lead (black clip)


to VCB earthing bar.
 Connect test lead (red clip)
to the faulty core.

Step 2(b)

HV Test Lead Connection at RMU


Test Bushing

To check total cable length:-

 Connect test lead (black


clip) to substation earthing
bar.
 Connect test lead (red clip)
to the healthy core.

Page | 102
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX III – TDR MEASUREMENT (BAUR)

To pre-locate fault distance:-

 Connect test lead (black


clip) to substation earthing
bar.
 Connect test lead (red clip)
to the faulty core.

Step 3

To Switch “ON” TDR

 Press ON/OFF button.

Step 4

To Display “Menu”

 Press “Menu” Button to


display “Mode”.

Page | 103
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX III – TDR MEASUREMENT (BAUR)

Step 5

To Select “Mode”

 Press knob to select “Mode”.

Step 6

To Select “TDR” Method

 Rotate knob until “TDR”


appears and press the knob
to activate “TDR Mode”.

Page | 104
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX III – TDR MEASUREMENT (BAUR)

Step 7(a)

To Set the TDR Pre-Location


Parameter

To Set “Range”

 Move the red frame to


“Range” by rotating the
knob, then press the knob
once to activate.
 Rotate the knob to select the
desired range corresponding
to the cable length.
 Press the knob to confirm.

Page | 105
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX III – TDR MEASUREMENT (BAUR)

Step 7(b)

To Set the TDR Pre-Location


Parameter

To Set “Gain (dB)”


 Move the red frame to
“Gain” by rotating the rotary
knob and then press the
knob once to activate.
 Rotate the rotary knob to
select the desired gain value.
 For fine adjustment, rotate
and press rotary knob once
more (window will display
yellow colour).
 Press the knob to confirm.

Page | 106
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX III – TDR MEASUREMENT (BAUR)

Step 7(c)

To Set the TDR Pre-Location


Parameter

To Set “Velocity of Propagation


(V/2)”
 Move the red frame to
“Velocity (V/2)” by rotating
the rotary knob, then press
the knob once to activate.
 Rotate the rotary knob to
select the desired V/2 value.
 For fine adjustment, press
the rotary knob once more,
(window will display yellow
colour).
 Rotate the rotary knob to
select the desired V/2 value
(refer to Table 3.1: Typical
Velocities of Propagation).
 Press the knob to confirm.

Page | 107
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX III – TDR MEASUREMENT (BAUR)

Step 8(a)

To Perform Measurement

Measuring Healthy Core / Total


Cable Length

 Refer Step No. 2(a) / (b).


 Press the knob for 2
seconds to obtain the TDR
trace (waveform).
 Refer to the displayed TDR
trace (waveform).

Step 8(b)

Measuring Distance

Cursor Selection

 Press the “Cursor” button.

Page | 108
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX III – TDR MEASUREMENT (BAUR)

 Move the red frame to


“Cursor#0” by rotating the
knob, then press the knob
once to activate.

 Rotate the knob to move


the yellow cursor to the
starting point of the initial
pulse.
 Press 2nd time for fine pitch.
 Press the knob to confirm.

Yellow Cursor on Initial Pulse

Page | 109
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX III – TDR MEASUREMENT (BAUR)

 Move the red frame to


“Cursor#1” by rotating
knob.
 Press the knob once (1st) to
activate.

 Rotate the knob to move


the cursor and place it close
to the beginning of the
Positive Pulse.

 Press 2nd time for fine pitch.

Page | 110
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX III – TDR MEASUREMENT (BAUR)

 Press 3rd time to fix cursor


Total Cable Length at position to confirm.
 Read and record the total
cable length shown at the
top right hand corner of the
display.

Step 9

To Pre-locate Fault Distance

 Remove red test lead


connection from healthy
core.
 Connect the red test lead to
the faulty core.

Page | 111
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX III – TDR MEASUREMENT (BAUR)

 Press the return key to


return to initial menu
selection screen.

 Press the knob for 2


seconds to obtain
measurement trace.

 The faulty core waveform


will be displayed.

Page | 112
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX III – TDR MEASUREMENT (BAUR)

Step 10

To Measure Fault Distance

Cursor Selection

 Press the cursor selection


button.

 Move the red frame to


“Cursor#0” by rotating the
knob, then press the knob
once to activate.
 Press 2nd time for fine pitch.

Cursor # 0

Page | 113
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX III – TDR MEASUREMENT (BAUR)

 Move the red frame to


“Cursor#1” by rotating
Fault Distance
selection dial.
 Press the knob once (1st) to
activate.
 Move to location close to the
next measurement point
(beginning of the negative
Black Cursor (Cursor #1) on the Negative
pulse).
Pulse
 Press 2nd time for fine pitch.
 Press 3rd time to fix the
cursor at whichever position
to confirm.
 Record the displayed fault
distance (at the top right
hand corner).

Page | 114
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX III – TDR MEASUREMENT (BAUR)

Step 11

Healthy Core & Faulty Core


Measurement Trace Comparison

 Perform Step No. 8

Function (Measure Healthy Core/


Total Cable Length)
 Press Function button
 Move the red frame to “Set
REF” by rotating the knob,
then press the knob once to
activate.

Note: Set REF saves measurement


temporarily for comparison reasons.

 Press the return key to


return to initial menu
selection screen.

Page | 115
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX III – TDR MEASUREMENT (BAUR)

 Perform Step No. 9 (To Pre-


locate Fault Distance).
 Press Compare button.

 Move the red frame to


“Insert REF” by rotating the
knob, then press the knob
once to activate.

Page | 116
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX III – TDR MEASUREMENT (BAUR)

 Both healthy (blue


waveform) and faulty (red
waveform) will be
displayed.

 Press “Return” button to


return to the initial page of
the screen.

Page | 117
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX III – TDR MEASUREMENT (BAUR)

Step 12

To Measure Fault Distance


Total Length

Fault Distance  Select “Cursor”


 Place Cursor # 0 to the start
of Initial Pulse.
 Place Cursor # 1 to the start
of Positive Pulse to confirm
total cable length.
 Place Cursor # 2 to the
point of separation or
Cursor # 0 Cursor # 2 Cursor # 1
divergence.
 Measurement of Fault
Distance is from the
beginning of the Initial
Pulse to the point of
separation or divergence.

 Press Return button to


return to the initial page of
the screen.

Page | 118
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX III – TDR MEASUREMENT (BAUR)

Step 13

To Switch Off the TDR

 Switch OFF the TDR unit by


pressing the ON/OFF
button.

Page | 119
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX IV – TDR MEASUREMENT (MEGGER)

Step-By-Step Procedures to Perform TDR


Measurement (Megger)

Following are the step-by-step procedures to measure TDR using Megger Teleflex SX.

DISPLAY AND CONTROLS

Element Description

1 Display

2 Rotary encoder with function keys on the side

3 USB port for connecting a USB flash drive or a USB printer

4 ON/OFF button with charge state indication

Page | 120
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX IV – TDR MEASUREMENT (MEGGER)

CONNECTION ELEMENTS

The following connection elements are located at the rear of the Teleflex SX:

Element Description

5&7 BNC Socket connection to perform ARM Method

6 BNC Socket connection to perform ICE Method

8 & 10 BNC socket L1 & L2 connection to perform TDR Method

9 Socket for equipment protective ground connection

11 Service interface

12 Charging socket

13 CAN Interface for connection of specific HV devices

Page | 121
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX IV – TDR MEASUREMENT (MEGGER)

SCREEN LAYOUT

Segment Description

1 Battery-status display

2 Date and time

3 Traces for current measurement or loaded measurements. The


display is split into a general overview (top) and the enlarged section
(bottom).

4 Current status messages and the required next step in the test
sequence.

Page | 122
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX IV – TDR MEASUREMENT (MEGGER)

Information on current phase selection.When the SPG 40 remote-


control mode is active, the symbol to the left of the current selected
phase indicates the SPG 40's operating state. The following states
can occur here:
5 High voltage generation is switched off and the HV output
on the SPG 40 is discharged and connected to earth through
a resistor.
The resistor discharge is not effective. High voltage is
present!
The display elements arranged in the lower area of the screen may
contain the following information:
• Set measurement parameters
• Current measurement values, which are continuously
6
updated as the measurement progresses
• Information (e.g. measurement values) which is applicable
for a particular trace only, is shown in the respective
colour.
7 Selection menu
Current device state:-
The device is currently in standby.

Pulse reflection measurement currently under way.

The measurement was stopped and the traces frozen.

The device is in measurement operational readiness and


waiting to be triggered.
8 The device is in the SPG 40 remote-control mode.

The FOHM safeguard of the SPG 40 has been deactivated in


the system settings.
The FU safeguard of the SPG 40 has been deactivated in the
system settings
The user operating the system has successfully logged into the
administration menu (see page 40) and identified himself /
herself as administrator.

9 Current operating mode

Page | 123
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX IV – TDR MEASUREMENT (MEGGER)

DIRECT CONNECTION TO TEST OBJECT

To enable the Teleflex SX-1 to be used for pulse reflection measurement, the
device must be connected to one or two phases of the test object as shown in the
figure below:

Note : For detailed operation refer to Teleflex SX User Guide.

Page | 124
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX IV – TDR MEASUREMENT (MEGGER)

TDR MEASUREMENT (MEGGER) STEP BY STEP

Step 1

Setting up the Megger Teleflex SX

 Plug in the Red Clip TDR


Probe to the IN 1 socket.
 Plug in the Blue Clip TDR
Probe to the IN 2 socket.

Page | 125
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX IV – TDR MEASUREMENT (MEGGER)

Step 2(a)

HV Test Lead Connection at VCB


Spout

To check total cable length:-


 Connect black test lead to
VCB earthing bar.
 Connect red test (red mark)
lead to the healthy core.

To pre-locate fault distance:-


 Connect black test lead to
VCB earthing bar.
 Connect red test (blue
mark) lead to the faulty
core.

Page | 126
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX IV – TDR MEASUREMENT (MEGGER)

Step 2(b)

HV Test Lead Connection at RMU


Test Bushing

To check total cable length:-


 Connect black test lead to
substation earthing bar.
 Connect red test (red mark)
lead to the healthy core.

To pre-locate fault distance:-


 Connect black test lead to
substation earthing bar.
 Connect red test (blue
mark) lead to the faulty
core.

Step 3

To Switch “ON” Megger Teleflex SX

 Press “ON/OFF” key.

Page | 127
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX IV – TDR MEASUREMENT (MEGGER)

Step 4

To Select mode “Teleflex”

Note: Mode selection displayed


when Teleflex is switched ON.

 Turn the Rotary Encoder to


select “Teleflex” mode.
 Press Rotary Encoder to
confirm.

Page | 128
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX IV – TDR MEASUREMENT (MEGGER)

Step 5

To Select Phase

 Input 1: Select L1-N and


press to confirm.
 Pull down rotary encoder to
select Input 2 (L2-N) and
press to confirm.
 Move Left Rotary Encoder to
skip Phase Selection.
 Select Menu Item
 It is recommended NOT to
press Rotary Encoder yet to
activate Teleflex / TDR
Mode!
 Adjust other settings (e.g. Y-
Gain, X-Range & V/2) before
starting the measurement
(refer Step 6 – 8).

Page | 129
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX IV – TDR MEASUREMENT (MEGGER)

Step 6

Setting the TDR Pre-location


Parameter

To Set “YG” (Y-Gain)

 Select “YG” and press the


Rotary Encoder to confirm.
 Select the desired Gain
Value.
 Press the Rotary Encoder to
confirm.

Step 7

Setting the TDR Pre-location


Parameter

To Set “XR” (X-Range)

 Select “XR” by rotating the


Rotary Encoder and press to
confirm.
 Select Range value.
 Press the Rotary Encoder to
confirm.
Note: Set the range slightly longer
than the actual cable length.

Page | 130
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX IV – TDR MEASUREMENT (MEGGER)

Step 8

Setting the TDR Pre-location


Parameter

To Set “Velocity of Propagation”


(V/2)

 Select “V/2” by rotating


the Rotary Encoder and
press to confirm.
 Select the desired “V/2”
value.
 Press the Rotary Encoder
to confirm.

Step 9

To Conduct Measurement

 Select Menu Item by


rotating the Rotary Encoder.

 Press the Rotary Encoder to


start measuring.

Page | 131
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX IV – TDR MEASUREMENT (MEGGER)

Step 10

To Stop Measurement

 Press Menu Item to


Pause or Stop Measurement.

Step 11

To Perform Distance Measurement

 Rotate Rotary Encoder to


Menu Item
 Press to select “Cursor”.
 Rotate the Rotary Encoder to
move the cursor to the fault
point.

Page | 132
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX IV – TDR MEASUREMENT (MEGGER)

For Comparison Mode:

 Red Trace is Healthy Core


and Blue Trace is Faulty
Core.
 Divergence between healthy
core and faulty core traces is
the fault location.

Step 12

To Zoom (If Necessary)

 Rotate the Rotary Encoder


to select Menu Item.
 Press the Rotary Encoder to
select the desired Zoom
value.
 Press the Rotary Encoder to
confirm.

Page | 133
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX IV – TDR MEASUREMENT (MEGGER)

Step 13

To Save a Trace

 Rotate the Rotary Encoder to


Menu Item and press
to confirm.
 Rotate the Rotary Encoder to
Menu Item and press to
confirm.
 Rotate the Rotary Encoder to
screen display “Save Current
Measurement” and press to
save.
 To abort saving, select
“Abort” and press to
confirm.

Page | 134
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX IV – TDR MEASUREMENT (MEGGER)

Step 14

Return to Main Menu

 Rotate Rotary Encoder to


Menu Item and press to
confirm.
 The test set is ready for new
measurement or;
 To shut down, press ON/OFF
Switch.

Page | 135
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX V – SIM/MIM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Step-By-Step Procedures for Secondary Impulse


Method / Multiple Impulse Method (SIM / MIM)

Following are the step-by-step procedures to perform SIM / MIM High Voltage Pre-
location Method using Baur IRG 2000 & BAUR SSG 1500.

Baur IRG 2000

Baur SSG 1500

Page | 136
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX V – SIM/MIM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

DISPLAY AND CONTROLS

Page | 137
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX V – SIM/MIM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

INSTALLATION OF FAULT LOCATION EQUIPMENT AT VCB COMPARTMENT

Step 1(a)

Safety Earth Connection

 Connect equipment safety


earth cable to Substation
earthing bar.
Equipment Safety Earth Cable

 Clamp equipment safety


earth cable to chassis of
the test van.

Test Van Chassis


Clamped with
Equipment Safety Earth
Cable

Page | 138
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX V – SIM/MIM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Step 2(a)

Auxiliary Earth Connection

 Auxiliary Earth Rod


inserted into ground near
to test van.

 Connect Auxiliary Earth


Lead to the Auxiliary Earth
Rod.

Step 3(a)

Discharge Rod Connection

 Connect the Discharge


Rod to the Substation
earthing bar.

Discharge Rod Note: Make sure the connection


Lead point is free of rust/paint/oxide
etc.

Page | 139
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX V – SIM/MIM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Step 4(a)

HV Test Lead Connection

 Connect HV Test Lead to


VCB Spout faulty core at VCB Spout.

 Connect Operating Earth (HV


Test Lead) to VCB Substation
VCB Substation earthing bar.
Earth

 Insert HV Test lead plug into


HV Socket of the Test Van.

HV Test Lead Plug & Socket

Page | 140
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX V – SIM/MIM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

INSTALLATION OF FAULT LOCATION EQUIPMENT AT RMU COMPARTMENT

Step 1(b)

Safety Earth Connection

 Connect equipment safety


earth cable to Substation
earthing bar.

Equipment Safety Earth Cable

 Clamp equipment safety


earth cable to the test van
chassis.

Test Van Chassis Clamped


with Equipment Safety Earth
Cable

Page | 141
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX V – SIM/MIM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Step 2(b)

Auxiliary Earth Connection

 Auxiliary Earth Rod


inserted into ground near
to test van.

 Connect Auxiliary Earth


Lead to the Auxiliary Earth
Rod.
Step 3(b)

Discharge Rod Connection

 Connect the Discharge


Rod to the Substation
earthing bar.

Note: Ensure the connection point


is free of rust / paint / oxide etc.

Page | 142
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX V – SIM/MIM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Step 4(b)

HV Test Lead Connection

 Connect HV Test Lead to


faulty core at RMU bushing.

 Connect Operating Earth (HV


Test Lead) to RMU
RMU Substation RMU Bushing Substation Earth.
Earth

 Insert HV Test lead plug into


HV Socket of the Test Van.

HV Test Lead Plug & Socket

Page | 143
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX V – SIM/MIM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

POWER SUPPLY CONNECTION (230V)

Step 5(i)

Main Power Supply (230V AC)

 Ready to plug in
(13A/320V) to main switch
socket outlet.

 Plug in the LV plug to the


test van’s Commando Plug

Page | 144
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX V – SIM/MIM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Step 5(ii)

Portable Generator Power Supply

 Connect power supply to the


test van from portable
generator, via a Distribution
Board (DB).
 The DB comprises of 13A
Socket Outlet.

Distribution Box (DB) with 13 Amp


Socket Outlet

3-prong locking
Generator Safety
plug Earth

Page | 145
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX V – SIM/MIM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

DETERMINE BREAKDOWN VOLTAGE OF FAULT

Step 6

Preparation to Switch ON
Thumper / Surge Voltage
1 2
Generator:

1. Release Emergency Key-


Button.
3 4
2. Select RANGE Selector
(kV)
3. Set Variac to “0”
4. Turn Selector Switch to
“Single Shot”.
5. Ensure both Pull-Switch
(Test & SA32) are pushed
in.
5

Page | 146
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX V – SIM/MIM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Step 7

Switch ON the LV Main Supply

 Switch ON the LV Power


Supply from 3-pin plug
(13A/230V).

Toggle Switch on  Switch ON Toggle Switch


Thumper on Thumper.
3-pin plug

Step 8

 Press ON Button [ ] – HV
Ready.

Step 9

 Press Button [1] – HV ON.

Page | 147
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX V – SIM/MIM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Step 10

Raise Voltage (kV) & Thump to


Obtain Breakdown Voltage

 Slowly raise the kV &


thump (press Single Shot
Button) until breakdown
voltage is obtained.
 Observe kV collapse to
confirm breakdown
voltage.
 Record the breakdown
voltage value.
 Reduce Variac to “0”.
 Press single shot button to
discharge capacitor of
thumper.

Page | 148
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX V – SIM/MIM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Step 11

 Press Button [0] to OFF


Thumper.

Step 12

 Switch OFF Toggle Switch.

Page | 149
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX V – SIM/MIM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

PERFORM “SIM” METHOD OF PRE-LOCATION

Step 13

Signal Cable Connection

 Ensure signal cable from the


Filter Unit (SA32) at the
Surge Signal Generator (SSG)
is connected to SIM (BNC
Signal Cable socket) of the TDR.

Page | 150
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX V – SIM/MIM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Step 14

To Switch “ON” Thumper.

1. Switch ON Toggle Switch


on Thumper.
1 2

2. Press Button [O] – HV


Ready.

3. Press Button [ I ] – HV ON.


3

Step 15

To Switch ON the SA 32 Filter Unit.

 Pull out rod to switch “ON“


Filter Unit (SA 32).

Page | 151
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX V – SIM/MIM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Step 16

To Switch “ON” TDR

 Press ON/OFF Key.

Step 17

To Display “Menu”

 Press “Menu” Button.

Page | 152
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX V – SIM/MIM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Step 18

To Select “Mode”

 Rotate knob to “Mode” and


press the knob.

Step 19

To Select “SIM”

 Rotate and Press the knob.

Note: Switch ON the Filter Unit (SA


32) Unit BEFORE selecting SIM on
the TDR Meter.

Page | 153
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX V – SIM/MIM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Step 20

To Set the TDR Pre-location


Parameter
Range
 Move the red frame to
“Range” by rotating the knob
and then press the knob once
to activate.
 Rotate the knob to select the
desired value corresponding
to the cable length.
 Press to confirm.

Step 21

To Set the TDR Pre-location


Parameter
Gain
 Move the red frame to
“Gain” by rotating the knob
and then press it once to
activate.

Page | 154
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX V – SIM/MIM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

 Rotate the knob to select the


desired gain value.
 For fine adjustment, press
the knob once more,
(window display yellow
colour).
 Rotate the knob to select the
desired gain value and press
it to confirm.

Step 22

To Set the TDR Pre-location


Parameter
Velocity (V/2)
 Move the red frame to
“Velocity (V/2)” by rotating
the knob, then press it once
to activate.

Page | 155
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX V – SIM/MIM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

 Rotate the selection dial to


select the desired V/2 value.
 For fine adjustment, press
the knob once more,
(window will display yellow
colour).
 Rotate the knob to select the
desired V/2 value, then press
to confirm.

Step 23

To Start Measurement
 Refer Step No. 2(a) / (b) for
connection.
 Press the knob at TDR for 2
seconds.
 The first trace / waveform
will be displayed on the TDR
screen.

Note: A message “increase voltage


at thumper” appears on the screen
indicating ready for HV-impulse
from the surge generator.

Page | 156
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX V – SIM/MIM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Step 24

To Create a Surge
 At Voltage Control Variac,
rotate to raise the HV Voltage
slightly above the pre-
determined breakdown
voltage of the fault.

Step 25

 At the SSG, press the Single


Shot Button to release the HV
Pulse Voltage and a
secondary TDR measurement
(2nd Trace) will be shown on
the TDR screen superimposed
on the 1st trace.

Page | 157
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX V – SIM/MIM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Step 26
Measurement of Fault Distance
 A 2nd Trace will be super
imposed onto the initial
trace.
 The negative reflection on
the 2nd Trace indicate the
fault location.
 Select “Cursor” and place
Cursor # 0 to the start of
Cursor # 0 Cursor # 2 Cursor # 1
Initial Pulse.
 Place Cursor # 1 to the start
of Positive Pulse to confirm
total length of cable.
 Place Cursor # 2 to the point
of separation or divergence
between the two traces.
 Measurement of Fault
Distance is from the start of
the Initial Pulse to the point
of separation or divergence
(between Cursor #0 to #2).

Page | 158
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX V – SIM/MIM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Step 27

 Press “Reverse” Key to return


to original display screen.

Step 28

To Zoom (if necessary)


 Move the red frame to
“Scroll/Zoom” by rotating the
dial, then press to activate.
 Rotate the dial to the location
to zoom in and press to
activate.
 Rotate the dial to zoom in.

Step 29

To Shut Down TDR

 Press the [0/1] button to OFF

the TDR Meter.

Page | 159
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX V – SIM/MIM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Step 30

To Switch Off Filter Unit (SA 32)

 Push in the Pull Switch SA 32.

Step 31
To Shut Down SSG 1500 /
Thumper and Disconnect Test
Lead
1. Rotate the Variac to
minimum or zero.
2. Discharge the stored charge
at the thumper by pushing
1 2
the Single Shot Button.
3. Push the [0] button to OFF.
4. Switch OFF the Main Switch
(Toggle Switch).
Note: Use the discharge rod to
discharge the cable at the
3 4 connection point. With the
discharge rod touching the terminal
connection, then only disconnect
the connection.

Page | 160
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX V – SIM/MIM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Fault Distance Measurement for MIM Method

For MIM High Voltage Pre-location Method, the step-by-step procedures are the same
except the TDR set must be capable of sending multiple measuring impulses such as
Baur IRG3000.

 Scroll to select the best


displayed trace for fault
distance measurement.
 The fault distance
measurement method is
the similar as Step 26.

Page | 161
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VI – ARM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Step-By-Step Procedures for Arc Reflection


Method (ARM)

Following are the step-by-step procedures to perform ARM High Voltage Pre-
location Method using Teleflex SX (Megger-Seba) and Surge Signal Generator
(SPG 32-1750).

SSG (SPG 32-1750) Teleflex SX (Megger-Seba)

Page | 162
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VI – ARM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

INSTALLATION OF FAULT LOCATION EQUIPMENT AT VCB COMPARTMENT

Step 1(a)

Safety Earth Connection

 Connect equipment safety


earth cable to Substation
earthing bar.

 Clamp equipment safety


earth cable to the chassis of
the test van.

Page | 163
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VI – ARM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Step 2(a)

Auxiliary Earth Connection

 Auxiliary Earth Rod inserted


into ground near to test
van.
 Connect Auxiliary Earth
Lead to the Auxiliary Earth
Rod
 Connect Auxiliary Earth
Lead to the Auxiliary Earth
Drum (Spool) in the Test
Van.
Step 3(a)

Discharge Rod Connection

 Connect the Discharge Rod to


the Substation earthing bar.

Note: Ensure the connection point is


free of rust/paint/oxide etc.

Page | 164
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VI – ARM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Step 4(a)

HV Test Lead Connection

 Connect HV Test Lead to the


faulty core.
VCB Spout

 Connect Operating Earth


(HV Test Lead) to VCB
substation earthing bar.

VCB Substation
Earth

 Connect the test lead to the


HV Connector at Test Van
(male & female socket).
Female Socket Connection

Male Socket Connection

Page | 165
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VI – ARM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

INSTALLATION OF FAULT LOCATION EQUIPMENT AT RMU COMPARTMENT

Step 1(a)

Safety Earth Connection

 Connect equipment safety


earth cable to Substation
earthing bar.

 Clamp equipment safety


earth cable to chassis of the
test van.

Page | 166
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VI – ARM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Step 2(b)

Auxiliary Earth Connection


 Auxiliary Earth Rod inserted
into ground near to test
van.
 Connect Auxiliary Earth
Lead to the Auxiliary Earth
Rod.
 Connect Auxiliary Earth
Lead to the Auxiliary Earth
Drum (Spool) in the Test
Van.

Step 3(b)

Discharge Rod Connection


 Connect the Discharge Rod to
the Substation earthing bar.

Note: Ensure the connection point is


free of rust/paint/oxide etc.

Page | 167
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VI – ARM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Step 4(b)

HV Test Lead Connection

 Connect HV Test Lead to


faulty core at RMU bushing.

 Connect Operating Earth


(HV Test Lead) to RMU
Substation Earth.

RMU Substation RMU Bushing


Earth

 Connect the test lead to the


HV Connector at Test Van
(male & female socket).
Female Socket Connection

Male Socket Connection

Page | 168
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VI – ARM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

POWER SUPPLY CONNECTION

Step 5(i)

Power Supply Connection from


13Amp Socket Outlet

 Connect power supply to the


test van from 230V main
supply (13 Amp Socket Outlet).

 Insert LV Socket to LV Plug of


drum.

Page | 169
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VI – ARM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Step 5(ii)

Power Supply Connection from


Generator Set

 Connect power supply to


the test van from portable
generator, via a Distribution
Board (DB).
 The DB comprises of 13A
Socket Outlet.
Distribution Box (DB) with 13 Amp
Socket Outlet

3-prong Generator Safety


locking plug Earth

Page | 170
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VI – ARM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Step 6

 Ensure the “limit switch” at


the test van’s rear access
door is functioning.

Step 7

 Ensure the test cables are


tidily arranged at the test
Van’s rear access door
recess.

 Close the test van door


tightly to ensure the “door
closed” limit switch is
engaged.

Page | 171
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VI – ARM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Step 8

 Ensure the “Main Earth (F -


Ω)” and “Auxiliary Earth (F -
U)” connections of the
monitoring lamps are not
illuminated.

Step 9

 Check for improper earthing


connection if the lamp is
illuminated.

Step 10
Ensure that signal cables are
correctly connected to the rear of
TDR:

ARM for Arc Reflection Method

Earth / Ground

Page | 172
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VI – ARM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Step 11

 Release Emergency Stop


Button.

 Select RANGE Selector (kV).

 Set Variac to “0”.

Page | 173
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VI – ARM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Step 12

 Press White button to


Switch ON Thumper. Green
lamp will illuminate.

Step 13

 Ensure selected to “SWG”


on the Thumper.

Step 14

 Press Green button on


Thumper to switch ON High
Voltage.

Page | 174
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VI – ARM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

 Red lamp will be


illuminated.

Step 15

To Determine the Breakdown


Voltage

 Slowly raise kV & thump


(press blue button) until
Breakdown Voltage is
obtained.
 Record breakdown voltage
value.
 Reduce variac to “0”.
 Press blue button to
discharge capacitor of
thumper.

Page | 175
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VI – ARM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Step 16

 Press Red button to switch


OFF Thumper.

 White lamp will be


illuminated.

Step 17

Pre-location using “ARM” Method.

 Press white button to switch


“ON” LV main supply.

 Green indication will light


up.

Page | 176
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VI – ARM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Step 18

Selection of “ARM” Pre-location


Mode

 Turn the mode selection to


“ARM” (KLV).

 The green light at KLV


indication is lighted up.

Step 19

 Switch ON TDR Unit


(Teleflex).

Page | 177
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VI – ARM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Step 20

 Select ‘ARM’ mode by


rotating the Rotary Encoder

 Press the Rotary Encoder to


confirm.

Step 21

Phase Selection

 Select L1-N and press to


confirm.
 Move the Rotary Encoder to
the left to skip the Phase
selection.

Page | 178
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VI – ARM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Step 22

Display Gain Selection

 Rotate the Rotary Encoder


to select ‘Gain – Y’ and
press to confirm.

 Rotate the Rotary Encoder


to adjust the desired ‘Gain –
Y’ and press to confirm.

Page | 179
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VI – ARM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Step 23

Display Range Selection

 Rotate the Rotary Encoder


to select ‘Range – X’ and
press to confirm.

 Rotate the Rotary Encoder


to adjust the desired ‘Range
– X’ and press to confirm.

Step 24

Select Velocity of Propagation

 Rotate the Rotary Encoder


to select the desired ‘Vp/2’
and press to confirm.

Page | 180
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VI – ARM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Step 25

To Obtain Initial Trace

 Press ‘Start’ to obtain the


initial trace.

Note:
 The first TDR measurement
trace will display the cable
end in blue line.
 The Cursor will
automatically move to the
positive pulse indicating the
total length of the cable.
 Check the measured total
length is the same as
recorded length.

Page | 181
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VI – ARM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Step 26

To Obtain Fault Trace Measurement

 Check the ‘REF’ wording is


in green colour.

Note: Indicating the measurement


mode is now in active mode.

 Press the Rotary Encoder to


activate the fault trace
measurement.

Note: The TDR is in standby mode to


capture the fault trace
measurement.

Page | 182
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VI – ARM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Step 27

Switch “ON” High Voltage Source

 Press the green button to


switch “ON” the High
Voltage.

Note: The Red button will light up


indicating high voltage is “ON”.

Step 28

Selection of Surge Voltage Value

 Turn Variac to raise the


surge voltage slightly above
the pre-determined
breakdown voltage.

Page | 183
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VI – ARM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Step 29

Perform “ARM” Fault Pre-Location

 Press blue button (Single


Shot) to obtain a fault trace
(displayed on TDR screen).

Note: Successful fault trace


measurement will be displayed in
red colour.

Step 30

Selection of Best Fault Trace Display

“ARM” Pre-Location Method


automatically stored 15 faults
measurement trace from one single
surge voltage discharge. To select
the best fault trace display, follow
these steps:-

Page | 184
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VI – ARM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

 Select “Option”, rotate the


Rotary Encoder to view fault
measurement trace one by
one, choose the best display
and press to confirm.
 If initial surge voltage failed
to breakdown fault, repeat
the pre-location process by
slightly increasing the surge
voltage. Repeat Step 10 –
Step 14.

Step 31

Measurement of Fault Distance

 Return to Main Menu.


 Rotate the Rotary Encoder
to select “Cursor” and press
to confirm.

Page | 185
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VI – ARM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

 Rotate the Rotary Encoder


to move the cursor to the
point of divergence
between the initial trace
and the fault measurement
trace.
 Read the distance value as
displayed at the cursor or at
the selection menu.

Step 32

To Turn “OFF” the TDR

 Rotate the Rotary Encoder


and press until the
initial screen display
appears.
 Press “OFF” switch to turn
off.

Page | 186
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VI – ARM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Step 33
To Shut Down Thumper

 Reduce Variac to minimum


or zero.

 Discharge the stored charge


at the thumper by pressing
the “Single Shot” button.
 Press the red button to
switch “OFF” the Thumper.

Note:
 Switch OFF the LV main
supply at 13A Plug &
unplug it.
 Use the discharge rod to
discharge the cable at the
connection point.
 With the discharge rod
touching the terminal
connection, the connection
can be disconnected.

Page | 187
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VII – ICM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Step-By-Step Procedures for Impulse Current


Method (ICM)
Following are the step-by-step procedures to perform ICM High Voltage Pre-
location Method using Baur IRG 2000 & BAUR SSG 1500.

BAUR IRG 2000

BAUR SSG 1500

Page | 188
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VII – ICM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

DISPLAY AND CONTROLS

Page | 189
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VII – ICM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

INSTALLATION OF FAULT LOCATION EQUIPMENT AT VCB COMPARTMENT

Step 1(a)

Safety Earth Connection

 Connect equipment safety


earth cable to Substation
Equipment Safety Earth Cable
earthing bar.

 Clamp equipment safety


earth cable to the test van
chassis.

Test Van Chassis with


Clamped Equipment
Safety Earth Cable

Page | 190
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VII – ICM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Step 2(a)

Auxiliary Earth Connection

 Auxiliary Earth Rod


inserted into ground near
to test van.
 Connect Auxiliary Earth
Lead to the Auxiliary Earth
Rod.

Step 3(a)

Discharge Rod Connection – VCB

 Connect the Discharge Rod to


the substation earthing bar.

Note: Ensure the connection point


is free of rust/paint/oxide etc.

Page | 191
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VII – ICM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Step 4(a)

HV Test Lead Connection

 Connect HV Test Lead to


faulty core at VCB Spout.
VCB Spout

 Connect Operating Earth to


VCB Substation earthing bar.

VCB
Substation
Earth

 Insert HV Test lead plug into


HV Socket of the Test Van.

HV Test Lead Plug & Socket

Page | 192
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VII – ICM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

INSTALLATION OF FAULT LOCATION EQUIPMENT AT RMU COMPARTMENT

Step 1(b)

Safety Earth Connection

 Connect equipment safety


earth cable to Substation
earthing bar.

Equipment Safety Earth Cable

 Clamp equipment safety


earth cable to the test van
chassis.

Test Van Chassis with


Clamped Equipment
Safety Earth Cable

Page | 193
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VII – ICM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Step 2(b)

Auxiliary Earth Connection

 Auxiliary Earth Rod


inserted into ground near
to test van.

 Connect Auxiliary Earth


Lead to the Auxiliary Earth
Rod.

Step 3(b)

Discharge Rod Connection

 Connect the Discharge


Rod to the Substation
earthing bar.

Note: Ensure the connection point


is free of rust/paint/oxide etc.

Page | 194
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VII – ICM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Step 4(b)

Test Lead Connection

 Connect HV Test Lead to


faulty core at RMU bushing.

 Connect Operating Earth to


RMU Substation Earth.

RMU Substation RMU Bushing


Earth

 Insert HV Test lead plug into


HV Socket of the Test Van.

Page | 195
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VII – ICM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

POWER SUPPLY CONNECTION

Step 5(i)

Main Power Supply (230V AC)

 Connect power supply to


the test van from 230V
main supply (13 Amp
Socket Outlet).

 Plug in the LV plug to the


test van’s Commando
Plug.

Page | 196
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VII – ICM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Step 5(ii)

Power Supply Connection from


Generator Set

 Connect power supply to


the test van from portable
generator, via a
Distribution Board (DB).
 The DB comprises of 13A
Distribution Box (DB) with 13
Amp Socket Outlet Socket Outlet.

3-prong locking Generator


plug Safety Earth

Page | 197
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VII – ICM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Step 6

Determine Breakdown Voltage of


Fault

1 2 Preparation to Switch ON
Thumper / Surge Voltage
Generator:

1. Release Emergency Key-


Button.
3 4
2. Select RANGE Selector
(kV)
3. Set Variac to “0”
4. Turn Selector Switch to
“Single Shot”.
5
5. Ensure both Pull-Switch
(Test & SA32) are pushed
in.

Page | 198
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VII – ICM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Step 7

Switch ON LV Mains Supply

 Switch ON the LV Power


Supply from 3-pin plug
(13A/230V).

 Switch ON Toggle Switch


on Thumper.

Step 8

 Press ON Button [ ].

Page | 199
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VII – ICM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Step 9

 Press Button [1].

Step 10

Raise Voltage (kV) & Thump to


Obtain Breakdown Voltage

 Slowly raise kV & thump


(press Single Shot Button)
until breakdown voltage is
obtained.
 Observe kV collapse to
confirm breakdown
voltage.
 Record breakdown voltage
value.
 Reduce variac to “0”.
 Press single shot button to
discharge capacitor.

Page | 200
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VII – ICM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Step 11

 Press Button [0] to switch


OFF Thumper.

Step 12

 Switch OFF Toggle Switch.

Step 13

Signal Cable Connections

 Ensure signal cable is


connected between the
Linear Coupler (SK1D) and
Signal Cable BNC Socket of ICM
ICM (BNC socket) of the
TDR.

Linear Coupler (SK1D)

Page | 201
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VII – ICM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Step 14
Pre-location using ICM
To Switch “ON” Thumper.

1
1. Switch ON Toggle Switch
2
on Thumper.
2. Press Button [O] – HV
Ready.
3. Press Button [ I ] – HV ON.

Step 15

To Switch “ON” TDR


 Press ON/OFF Key

Step 16

To Display “Menu”
 Press “Menu” Button.

Page | 202
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VII – ICM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Step 17

To Select “Mode”

 Rotate rotary knob to


“Mode” and press to
confirm.

Note: All available methods are


displayed.

Step 18

To Select “ICM”

 Rotate rotary knob to


“ICM” and press to
confirm.

Page | 203
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VII – ICM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Step 19

To Set the TDR Pre-Location


Parameter

To Set “Range”

 Rotate the rotary knob to


move the red frame to
“Range” and press the
knob once to activate.
 Rotate the rotary knob to
select the desired value
correspond to the cable
length and press to
confirm.

Note: Select a range of at least


twice the cable length.

Page | 204
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VII – ICM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Step 20
To Set the TDR Pre-location
Parameter

To Set “Gain” (dB)


 Rotate the rotary knob to
move the red frame to
“Gain” and press the knob
once to activate.
 Rotate the rotary knob to
select the desired gain
value and press to
confirm.
 For fine adjustment, press
rotary once more,
(window display turns
yellow).
 Rotate the rotary knob to
select the desired fine gain
value and press to
confirm.

Page | 205
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VII – ICM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Step 21

To Set “Velocity of Propagation”


(V/2)

 Rotate the rotary knob to


move the red frame to
“Velocity (V/2)” and press
the knob once to activate.
 Rotate the rotary knob to
select the desired V/2
value.
 For fine adjustment, press
the rotary knob once
more, (window display
turns yellow).

Page | 206
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VII – ICM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Step 22
To Conduct Pre-location by “ICM”
Method

To Start Measurement
 Refer to Step 2(a)/ (b).
 At the TDR Meter, press
the rotary knob for 2
seconds.

Note: A message “increase voltage


at thumper” appears on the screen
indicating ready for HV-impulse
from the surge generator.
Step 23

Selection of Surge Voltage Value

 Turn Variac to slightly


raise the surge voltage
above the pre-determined
breakdown voltage.

Page | 207
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VII – ICM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

 Press the “Single Shot”


button to release the HV
voltage pulse.

 Typical Oscillating Impulse


Current Discharge Wave
trapped between the fault
point and the beginning of
cable is recorded by the
TDR meter.

Step 24

To Perform Measurement

 Press the “Cursor” Key.

Page | 208
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VII – ICM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

 Rotate the selection dial


to move the red frame to
“Cursor#0” and press the
knob once to activate.

Principle of Measuring

Identical Repetitive Wave


153.6 m
0m  Pick two most identical
repetitive wave for
measurement (do not
choose the initial pulse).
 Rotate the selection dial
to move the “Cursor#0” to
Beginning to Beginning the start of the first
selected wave and press
the knob to confirm.

Page | 209
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VII – ICM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

 Rotate the selection dial


153.6 m to move the red frame to
0m
“Cursor#1” and press the
knob once to activate.
 Rotate the selection dial
to move the “Cursor#1” to
the start of the second
selected wave and press
to confirm.
Peak to Peak

Note:
 The fault distance
measurement is as shown
at the top right-hand
corner of the TDR display.
 Alternatively, the fault
distance measurement can
be taken between the
peaks of two selected
adjacent waves (do not
choose the initial pulse).
 To select fine measurement
adjustment, press the
rotary selection dial 2nd
time at “Cursor#1”.

Page | 210
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VII – ICM HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Step 25
To Shut Down TDR Meter
 Press the [0/1] button to
OFF the TDR Meter.

Step 26
To Shut Down Thumper and
Disconnect Test Lead
1. Reduce Variac to
minimum or zero.
1 2 2. Discharge the stored
charge at the thumper by
pressing the “Single Shot”
button.
3. Push the [0] button to
“OFF”.
3 4
4. Toggle the LV Switch to
“OFF” position.

Note: Use the discharge rod to


discharge the cable at the
connection point. Only with the
discharge rod touching the
terminal connection, the
connection can then be
disconnected.

Page | 211
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VIII – ICE HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Step-By-Step Procedures for Impulse Current


Equipment (ICE)

Following are the step-by-step procedures to perform ICE High Voltage Pre-
location Method using Teleflex SX (Megger-Seba) and Surge Signal Generator
(SPG 32-1750).

SSG (SPG 32-1750) Teleflex SX (Megger-Seba)

Page | 212
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VIII – ICE HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

DISPLAY AND CONTROLS

Element Description

1 Display

2 Rotary encoder with function keys on the side

3 USB port for connecting a USB flash drive or a USB printer

4 ON/OFF button with charge state indication

Page | 213
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VIII – ICE HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

CONNECTION ELEMENTS

The following connection elements are located at the rear of the Teleflex SX:

Element Description

5&7 BNC Socket connection to perform ARM Method

6 BNC Socket connection to perform ICE Method

8 & 10 BNC socket L1 & L2 connection to perform TDR Method

9 Socket for equipment protective ground connection

11 Service interface

12 Charging socket

13 CAN Interface for specific HV devices connection

Page | 214
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VIII – ICE HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

SCREEN LAYOUT

Segment Description

1 Battery-status display

2 Date and time

3 Traces for current measurement or loaded measurements. The


display is split into a general overview (top) and the enlarged section
(bottom).

4 Current status messages and the required next step in the test
sequence.

Page | 215
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VIII – ICE HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Information on current phase selection.When the SPG 40 remote-


control mode is active, the symbol to the left of the current selected
phase indicates the SPG 40's operating state. The following states
can occur here:
5 High voltage generation is switched off and the HV output
on the SPG 40 is discharged and connected to earth through
a resistor.
The resistor discharge is not effective. High voltage is
present!
The display elements arranged in the lower area of the screen may
contain the following information:
• Set measurement parameters
• Current measurement values, which are continuously
6
updated as the measurement progresses
• Information (e.g. measurement values) which is applicable
for a particular trace only, is shown in the respective
colour.
7 Selection menu
Current device state:-
The device is currently in standby.

Pulse reflection measurement currently under way.

The measurement was stopped and the traces frozen.

The device is in measurement operational readiness and


waiting to be triggered.
8 The device is in the SPG 40 remote-control mode.

The FOHM safeguard of the SPG 40 has been deactivated in


the system settings.
The FU safeguard of the SPG 40 has been deactivated in the
system settings
The user operating the system has successfully logged into the
administration menu (see page 40) and identified himself /
herself as administrator.

9 Current operating mode

Page | 216
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VIII – ICE HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Direct Connection to Test Object

To enable the Teleflex SX-1 to be used to conduct ICE Method, the device must
be connected as shown in the figure below:

Note : For detailed operation refer to Teleflex SX User Guide.

Page | 217
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VIII – ICE HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

INSTALLATION OF FAULT LOCATION EQUIPMENT AT VCB COMPARTMENT


Step 1(a)

Safety Earth Connection

 Connect equipment
safety earth cable to
Substation earthing
bar.

 Clamp equipment
safety earth cable to
the test van chassis.

Page | 218
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VIII – ICE HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Step 2(a)

Auxiliary Earth Connection


 Auxiliary Earth Rod
inserted into ground
near to test van.
 Connect Auxiliary
Earth Lead to the
Auxiliary Earth Rod
 Connect Auxiliary
Earth Lead to the
Auxiliary Earth Drum
(Spool) in the Test Van

Step 3(a)

Discharge Rod Connection


 Connect the Discharge
Rod to the Substation
earthing bar.

Note: Ensure the connection


point is free of rust/paint/oxide
etc.

Page | 219
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VIII – ICE HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Step 4(a)

HV Test Lead Connection


 Connect HV Test Lead
to the faulty core.
 Connect Operating
Earth to VCB
substation earthing
bar.

 Connect HV lead to
Test Van HV socket
Female Socket Connection
(male & female).

Male Socket Connection

Page | 220
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VIII – ICE HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

INSTALLATION OF FAULT LOCATION EQUIPMENT AT RMU COMPARTMENT


Step 1(b)

Safety Earth Connection

 Connect equipment
safety earth to Substation
earthing bar.

 Clamp equipment safety


earth cable to the test van
chassis.

Page | 221
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VIII – ICE HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Step 2(b)
Auxiliary Earth Connection
 Auxiliary Earth Rod
inserted into ground
near to test van.
 Connect Auxiliary
Earth Leads to the
Earth Rod.
 Connect Auxiliary
Earth Lead to the
Auxiliary Earth Drum
(Spool) in the Test Van.

Step 3(b)

Discharge Rod Connection

 Connect the Discharge


Rod to the Substation
earthing bar.

Note: Ensure the connection


point is free of rust/paint/oxide
etc.

Page | 222
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VIII – ICE HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Step 4(b)

HV Test Lead Connection


 Connect HV Test Lead to
faulty core at RMU
bushing.
 Connect Operating Earth
to RMU Substation Earth.

RMU Substation RMU Bushing


Earth

 Connect HV lead to Test


Van HV socket (male &
Female Socket Connection
female).

Male Socket Connection

Page | 223
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VIII – ICE HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

POWER SUPPLY CONNECTION

Step 5(i)

Power Supply Connection from


13 Amp Socket Outlet

 Connect power supply to


the test van from 230V
main supply (13 Amp
Socket Outlet).

 Connect LV lead to LV
Socket at drum.

Page | 224
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VIII – ICE HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Step 5(ii)

Power Supply Connection from


Generator Set

 Connect power supply


to the test van from
portable generator, via
a Distribution Board
(DB).
Distribution Box (DB) with 13 Amp
Socket Outlet  The DB comprises of
13A Socket Outlet.

3-prong locking Generator Safety


plug Earth

Page | 225
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VIII – ICE HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Step 6

 Ensure the “limit


switch” at the test
van’s rear access door
is functioning.

Step 7

 Ensure the test cables


are tidily arranged at
the test van’s rear
access door recess.
 Close the test van door
tightly to ensure the
“door closed” limit
switch is engaged.

Page | 226
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VIII – ICE HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Step 8
 Ensure the ”Main
Earth (F - Ω)” and
“Auxilliary Earth (F -
U)” connections of the
monitoring lamps are
not illuminated.
Step 9
 Check for improper
earthing connection if
the lamp is
illuminated.
Step 10

Set up the Megger Teleflex SX


 Plug in the connection
cable marked (I) to
BNC Socket U/I.
 Plug in the
green/yellow cable to
the protective ground
(GND) socket.

Page | 227
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VIII – ICE HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Step 11

 Release Emergency
Stop Button.

 Select RANGE Selector


(kV).

 Set Variac to “0”

Page | 228
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VIII – ICE HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Step 12

 Press White button to


Switch ON Thumper.
Green lamp will
illuminate.
Step 13

 Ensure selected to
“SWG” on the
Thumper.

Step 14

 Press Green button on


Thumper to switch ON
High Voltage.

 Red lamp will be


illuminated.

Page | 229
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VIII – ICE HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Step 15

To Determine Breakdown
Voltage
 Slowly raise kV &
thump (press blue
button) until
Breakdown Voltage is
obtained.
 Record breakdown
voltage value.
 Reduce variac to “0”.
 Press blue button to
discharge capacitor.

Step 16

 Press Red button to


switch OFF Thumper.

Page | 230
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VIII – ICE HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

 White lamp will be


illuminated.

Step 17

Pre-Location using “ICE


Method”

 Press white button to


switch “ON” LV main
supply.
 Green indication will
light up.

Step 18

 Ensure selected to
‘SWG Trigger’ mode.

Page | 231
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VIII – ICE HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Step 19
 Switch ON the HT
Source by pressing the
green button.
 RED light indicates HV
ON.

Step 20

To Switch “ON” Megger


Teleflex SX

 Press ON/OFF Switch.

Page | 232
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VIII – ICE HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Step 21

Mode Selection Displayed

To Select Mode

 Rotate the Rotary


Encoder to Select ‘ICE’
Mode on the Selection
Menu Display.
 Press the Rotary
Encoder to confirm.

Note: “ICE” Mode will be


displayed on the screen.

Step 22

Phase Selection
 Select L1-N and press
to confirm.
 Move Rotary Encoder
to left to skip the
phase selection.

Page | 233
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VIII – ICE HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Step 23
To Select Gain - Y
 Rotate the Rotary
Encoder to select ‘Gain -
Y’ and press to confirm.
 Adjust the ‘Gain - Y’ by
turning the Rotary
Encoder clockwise or
anticlockwise and press to
confirm.
Step 24
To Select Range - X
 Rotate Rotary Encoder to
Select ‘Range - X’ and
press to confirm.
 Adjust the ‘Range – X’ by
turning the Rotary
Encoder clockwise or
anticlockwise and press to
confirm.
Note: Ensure the range selected
is twice or more than the total
length of cable.

Page | 234
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VIII – ICE HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Step 25
To Set “Velocity of
Propagation” (V/2)
 Turn the Rotary
Encoder to Select
‘Vp/2’ and press to
confirm.
 Adjust the Vp/2 by
turning the Rotary
Encoder clockwise or
anticlockwise.
 Press to confirm once
Vp/2 is selected.
Step 26

To Perform Measurement

 Press the Rotary


Encoder to activate the
mode.

 Teleflex menu will


show “Trigger Shot”.

Page | 235
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VIII – ICE HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Step 27

 Turn Variac to raise the


test voltage slightly
above the pre-
determined
breakdown voltage.

Step 28

 Press blue button


Single Shot to obtain a
breakdown waveform
(displayed on TDR
screen).

Step 29

Fault Distance Measurement


 Select Cursor and press
button to confirm.

Page | 236
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VIII – ICE HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Step 30

Beginning to Beginning
To Measure the Fault Distance
Note: Take the reading from
the start of two adjacent
repetitive waves or the peaks
of two adjacent repetitive
waves.

Peak to Peak  Select Cursor and


move to the start of
the measuring point.
 Press and Hold cursor
1 for a few sec. until
cursor 2 appears.
 Rotate the Rotary
Encoder to move
cursor 2 to the second
measuring point of the
breakdown waveform.
 Record the fault
distance measured.

Page | 237
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VIII – ICE HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Option – Memory Function


 Go to ‘Teleflex Menu’
and press to confirm.
 Move the cursor by
turning left to select
“Memory”.
 Press button to
confirm.
 On the Memory menu,
choose ‘Save Current
Measurement’.
 Press to store the
trace.
 Current display will
show ‘Memory
Successfully Saved’
Step 31
To OFF TDR Meter
 Press the white
button.

Page | 238
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VIII – ICE HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Step 32

 Turn Variac to reduce


kV until minimum at 0.

Step 33

 Discharge the
Thumper by pressing
the blue button.

Step 34

 Press red button to


switch OFF the HV
Supply (red light “OFF”,
white light “ON”).

Page | 239
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX VIII – ICE HIGH VOLTAGE PRE-LOCATION METHOD

Step 35

Switch OFF Main Supply to the


SSG (White Light “OFF”)

 Switch OFF the LV


main supply at 13A
Plug & unplug.
 Use the discharge rod
to discharge the cable
at the connection
point.
 Only perform
disconnection with the
discharge rod touching
the terminal
connection.

Page | 240
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX IX – FAULT PIN-POINTING (MEGGER)

Step-By-Step Procedures for Pin-Pointing (Megger


digiPHONE+)
Following are the step-by-step procedures to perform Fault Pin-Pointing using
Megger (digiPHONE+).

CABLE ROUTE TRACING

Receiver
 Complete Cable Route
Tracing procedure
before marking pre-
located distance.

Transmitter

Page | 241
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX IX – FAULT PIN-POINTING (MEGGER)

MEASUREMENT OF PRE-LOCATED DISTANCE

Measure the Pre-located


Distance

 Use a Distance
Measuring Wheels /
Roller to measure the
pre - located fault
distance.

Page | 242
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX IX – FAULT PIN-POINTING (MEGGER)

INSTALLATION OF FAULT LOCATION EQUIPMENT AT VCB COMPARTMENT

Step 1(a)

Safety Earth Connection

 Connect equipment
safety earth cable to
Substation earthing bar.

 Clamp equipment safety


earth cable to the test
van chassis.

Page | 243
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX IX – FAULT PIN-POINTING (MEGGER)

Step 2(a)

Auxiliary Earth Connection

 Auxiliary Earth Rod inserted


into ground near to test
van.
 Connect Auxiliary Earth
Lead to the Earth Rod
 Connect Auxiliary Earth
Lead to the Auxiliary Earth
Drum (Spool) in the Test
Van.
Step 3(a)

Discharge Rod Connection


 Connect the Discharge Rod
to the Substation earthing
bar.

Note: Ensure the connection


point is free of rust/paint/oxide
etc.

Page | 244
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX IX – FAULT PIN-POINTING (MEGGER)

Step 4(a)

HV Test Lead Connection

 Connect HV Test Lead to


the faulty core at VCB
VCB Spout Spout.
 Connect Operating Earth
to VCB Substation
earthing bar.

VCB Substation
Earth

 Connect HV Lead to Test


Van HV socket (male &
Female Socket Connection female).

Male Socket Connection

Page | 245
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX IX – FAULT PIN-POINTING (MEGGER)

INSTALLATION OF FAULT LOCATION EQUIPMENT AT RMU COMPARTMENT

Step 1(a)

Safety Earth Connection

 Connect equipment
safety earth cable to
Substation earthing bar.

 Clamp equipment safety


earth cable to the test
van chassis.

Page | 246
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX IX – FAULT PIN-POINTING (MEGGER)

Step 2(a)
Auxiliary Earth Connection

 Auxiliary Earth Rod


inserted into ground
near to test van.
 Connect Auxiliary Earth
Lead to the Auxiliary
Earth Rod.
 Connect Auxiliary Earth
Lead to the Auxiliary
Earth Drum (Spool) in
the Test Van.

Step 3(b)

Discharge Rod Connection


 Connect the Discharge Rod
to the Substation earthing
bar.

Note: Ensure the connection


point is free of rust/paint/oxide
etc.

Page | 247
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX IX – FAULT PIN-POINTING (MEGGER)

Step 4(b)

HV Test Lead Connection

 Connect HV Test Lead to


faulty core at RMU
bushing.
 Connect Operating Earth
to RMU Substation Earth.

 Connect HV Lead to Test


Van HV socket (male &
female).
Female Socket Connection

Male Socket Connection

Page | 248
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX IX – FAULT PIN-POINTING (MEGGER)

POWER SUPPLY CONNECTION

Step 5(i)

Power Supply Connection from


13Amp Socket Outlet

 Connect power supply to


the test van from 230V
main supply (13 Amp
Socket Outlet).

 Insert to LV Plug & Socket


of the drum.

Page | 249
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX IX – FAULT PIN-POINTING (MEGGER)

Step 5(ii)

Power Supply Connection from


Generator Set

 Connect power supply to


the test van from
portable generator, via a
Distribution Board (DB).
 The DB comprises of 13A
Socket Outlet.

Distribution Box (DB) with 13


Amp Socket Outlet

Step 6
 Ensure the “limit switch”
at the test van’s rear
access door is
functioning.

Page | 250
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX IX – FAULT PIN-POINTING (MEGGER)

Step 7

 Ensure the test cables


are tidily arranged at the
test van’s rear access
door recess.
 Close the test van door
tightly to ensure the
“door closed” limit
switch is engaged.
Step 8

 Ensure the “Main Earth


(F - Ω)” and “Auxiliary
Earth (F - U)”
connections of the
monitoring lamps are
not illuminated.
Step 9

 Check for improper


earthing connection if
the lamp is illuminated.

Page | 251
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX IX – FAULT PIN-POINTING (MEGGER)

Preparation & SWITCH ON Thumper (SPG 32-1750)

Step 10
Determine Breakdown Voltage
of Fault

 Connect the thumper to


the faulty cable.
o For 11 kV Cable –
select 8 kV range
o For 22 kV Cable –
select 16 kV range
o For 33 kV Cable –
select 32 kV range
 Turn Variac to Minimum
or Null.
 Ensure Auto Trip
Button/Knob is released.

Page | 252
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX IX – FAULT PIN-POINTING (MEGGER)

Step 11

 Switch ON the Thumper


by pressing the white
button.

Step 12

 Press lighted white


button to ON LV (Green
lamp illuminate).

Step 13

 Select ‘SWG Trigger’


mode.

Page | 253
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX IX – FAULT PIN-POINTING (MEGGER)

Step 14

 Press green button to


switch ON HV (Red lamp
will illuminate).

Increasing the Voltage (kV)

Step 15
 Turn variac to raise kV
(recommended
2kV/Sec.)
 Press Single Shot button
to ensure discharge is
successful.

Page | 254
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX IX – FAULT PIN-POINTING (MEGGER)

Note:
 Change the kV range if
necessary.
 Select kV range that
gives a maximum
energy output for
normal circumstances.
 Ensure discharge
voltage is sufficient and
consistent (maintain at
least or > 5 kV
discharge. e.g. 12 kV - 6
kV = 6 kV).

 Select to Auto Pulse.


 Set timing to personal
preference (e.g. 3 sec
per impulse).

Page | 255
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX IX – FAULT PIN-POINTING (MEGGER)

SETTING UP THE DIGIPHONE (PIN-POINTING SET)

Connections and Control of the Indicator/Receiver Unit

ELEMENT DESCRIPTION
1 DISPLAY
2 KNOB
INDICATOR UNIT:
i. Unit ON/OFF (when pressed slightly
longer)
3 ii. Blacklight ON/OFF (when briefly pressed)
iii. LED for indicating that the device is
turned ON (green) or the batteries are low
(red)
4 MUTE ON/OFF
5 CONNECTION SOCKET FOR SENSOR
6 CONNECTION SOCKET FOR HEADPHONE

Page | 256
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX IX – FAULT PIN-POINTING (MEGGER)

Component of the Megger digiPHONE +

1. Indicator/Receiver Unit
2. Headset
3. Sensor Unit / Ground
Microphone
4. Telescopic Handle
5. Connection Cables
③ ② ⑤ ① ④

Step 16

Preparing the Sensor Unit


 Attach telescopic handle
to Sensor Unit & twist to
tighten.
 Adjust the height of the
handle.
 Fix the 3-point foot &
sensor rod.

Page | 257
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX IX – FAULT PIN-POINTING (MEGGER)

 Connect the Sensor Unit


to the Indicator/Receiver
Unit.

 Connect the Headphone


to the Indicator /
Receiver Unit.

 The complete assembly


of the Megger
digiPHONE +.

Page | 258
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX IX – FAULT PIN-POINTING (MEGGER)

Turn On the Indicator/ Receiver Unit

Step 17

 Ensure Headphone and


Sensor Unit are
connected to the
Indicator/Receiver unit.
 Press the ON/OFF switch
button slightly longer to
Switch ON the Indicator
/Receiver Unit.
 Briefly press the ON/OFF
switch button to switch
ON backlight.

Page | 259
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX IX – FAULT PIN-POINTING (MEGGER)

 The following will be


displayed:
 Headset status.
Amplification
setting (84dB)
 Filter Setting
 BNR (Status of
background noise
reduction)
 Battery status
 Time difference of
last position
 Cable position
below sensor (line
position)
 Indicator for arrival
of an acoustic
signal
 Bar graph for
magnetic pulse
with numerical
instantaneous
value.

Page | 260
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX IX – FAULT PIN-POINTING (MEGGER)

 Indicator for arrival


of magnetic signal
 Level magnetic
channel
 Peak hold magnetic
channel
 Fault Indication ↑
Compass.
 Current time
difference.

Adjust the Receiver Setting

Step 18
 Press “Knob” to go to
Menu Screen
 Rotate & Press “Knob”
to select elements/
features.

Page | 261
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX IX – FAULT PIN-POINTING (MEGGER)

 Select & adjust the


following:
 High pass filter
 Filter Off
 100 – 400 Hz
 150 – 600 Hz
 200 – 1500 Hz
 (_____) to
return
 BNR
 84dB
 Set up
 Language
 Fault direction
 Active APM
(Auto
Proximity
Mute)
 Measured
value (mSec,
m, ft)
 Factory setting

Page | 262
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX IX – FAULT PIN-POINTING (MEGGER)

 Press “Return Key” on


the “Knob” to return to
Measurement Screen.

Adjusting the Volume Setting

Step 19

To mute the volume:


 Press the Key.
 Place hand on the
handle
 To increase/decrease
the Volume
 Turn the “Knob”
clockwise or counter
clockwise.

Page | 263
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX IX – FAULT PIN-POINTING (MEGGER)

Start Pin-Pointing

Step 20

 Observe the green cable


symbol beneath the
sensor symbol in the
center of the digiPHONE
– Preferably at the
“centred” of the
Receiver Unit.
 Follow the fault
direction indication ↑
Off the cable On the cable (Compass) on the
Receiver Unit.
 Indication of Magnetic
pulse & Acoustic signal
on the display of the
Receiver Unit.

Page | 264
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX IX – FAULT PIN-POINTING (MEGGER)

 Keep the “Arrow” on the


Sensor Unit is pointing
towards (Y-Axis) the cable
direction.

 Checking / setting the


Magnetic Signal at the
beginning of the faulted
cable (outside the
substation) before
advancing to the pre-
located distance.

Page | 265
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX IX – FAULT PIN-POINTING (MEGGER)

Approaching The Fault

Step 21
When getting closer to the fault
point, the following indications
occur:
 The magnetic field detection
occurs at the same time with
the flash over or ignition at
fault point.
 The volume of the flashover
noise normally continues to
rise nearer to the fault.
 Another indicator for the
distance to the fault is the
transit time difference
between the magnetic
pulse and the acoustic
flashover signal which is
permanently shown on the
display.

Page | 266
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX IX – FAULT PIN-POINTING (MEGGER)

 Upon approaching the fault


point the transit time
difference decreases.

FAULT INDICATION

Step 22

Indication of the fault transit


time:-

① No fault detected
② Approaching the fault
③ Directly above the fault
④ After the fault (U-Turn)

Page | 267
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX IX – FAULT PIN-POINTING (MEGGER)

FAULT LOCATION MARKING

Step 23

 Mark the pin - pointed


fault location using spray
paint or other effective
method.

SWITCH OFF digiPHONE SET

Step 24

 Press the ON/OFF


button to Switch OFF the
Indicator / Receiver Unit.

Page | 268
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX IX – FAULT PIN-POINTING (MEGGER)

SWITCH OFF THUMPER (SPG 32-1750)

Step 25

 Turn the Variac to


minimum or reduce the
kV.

 Press blue button


“Single Shot” to
discharge.

 Press red button to


switch OFF the Thumper.

Page | 269
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX IX – FAULT PIN-POINTING (MEGGER)

 Press the Emergency


Stop Button to lock.

Note: Ensure circuit/cable is


discharged properly (Discharge
Rod) before removing the HV
Connection.

Step 26

 Switch OFF and unplug


the LV main supply
(230V) or Generator
supply.

Page | 270
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX X – FAULT PIN-POINTING (BAUR)

Step-By-Step Procedures for Pin-Pointing (Baur UL


30 & BM 30)
Following arethe step-by-step procedures to perform Fault Pin-Pointing using Baur
UL 30 and BM 30.

CABLE ROUTE TRACING

Receiver
 Complete Cable Route
Tracing before marking
pre-located distance.

Transmitter

Page | 271
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX X – FAULT PIN-POINTING (BAUR)

MEASUREMENT OF PRE-LOCATED DISTANCE

 Use a Distance Measuring


Wheels / Roller to
measure the pre - located
fault distance.

Page | 272
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX X – FAULT PIN-POINTING (BAUR)

INSTALLATION OF FAULT LOCATION EQUIPMENT AT VCB COMPARTMENT

Step 1(a)

Safety Earth Connection

 Connect equipment
safety earth cable to

Equipment Safety Earth Cable substation earthing


bar.

 Clamp equipment
safety earth cable to
the test van chassis.

Test Van Chassis with


Clamped Equipment Safety
Earth Cable

Page | 273
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX X – FAULT PIN-POINTING (BAUR)

Step 2(a)

Auxiliary Earth Connection

 Auxiliary Earth Rod


inserted into ground near
to test van.
 Connect Auxiliary Earth
Lead to the Auxiliary Earth
Rod.

Step 3(a)

Discharge Rod Connection

 Connect the Discharge


Rod to the Substation
earthing bar.

Note: Ensure the connection


point is free of rust/paint/oxide
etc.

Page | 274
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX X – FAULT PIN-POINTING (BAUR)

Step 4(a)

HV Test Lead Connection

 Connect HV Test Lead to


faulty core at VCB Spout.
VCB Spout

 Connect Operating Earth


to VCB Substation
earthing bar.

VCB Substation
Earth

 Insert HV Test lead plug


into HV Socket of the Test
Van.

HV Test Lead Plug & Socket

Page | 275
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX X – FAULT PIN-POINTING (BAUR)

INSTALLATION OF FAULT LOCATION EQUIPMENT AT RMU COMPARTMENT

Step 1(b)

Safety Earth Connection

 Connect equipment
safety earth cable to
Substation earthing
bar.

Equipment Safety Earth Cable

 Clamp equipment
safety earth cable to
the test van chassis.

Test Van Chassis with


Clamped Equipment Safety
Earth Cable

Page | 276
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX X – FAULT PIN-POINTING (BAUR)

Step 2(b)

Auxiliary Earth Connection

 Auxiliary Earth Rod


inserted into ground
near to test van.

 Connect Auxiliary
Earth Lead to the
Auxiliary Earth Rod.

Step 3(b)

Discharge Rod Connection

 Connect the Discharge


Rod to the Substation
earthing bar.

Note: Ensure the


connection point is free of
rust/paint/oxide etc.

Page | 277
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX X – FAULT PIN-POINTING (BAUR)

Step 4(b)

HV Test Lead Connection

 Connect HV Test Lead to


faulty core at RMU
bushing.

 Connect Operating Earth


to RMU Substation Earth.

RMU Substation RMU Bushing


Earth

 Insert HV Test lead plug


into HV Socket of the Test
Van.

HV Test Lead Plug & Socket

Page | 278
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX X – FAULT PIN-POINTING (BAUR)

POWER SUPPLY CONNECTION (230V)

Step 5(i)

Mains Power Supply (230V)

 Ready to plug in
(13A/320V) to main
switch socket outlet.

 Plug in the LV plug to


the test van’s
Commando Plug.

Page | 279
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX X – FAULT PIN-POINTING (BAUR)

Step 5(ii)

Portable Generator Power


Supply

 Connect power supply


to the test van from
portable generator, via
a Distribution Board
(DB).
 The DB comprises of
13A Socket Outlet.

Distribution Box (DB) with 13 Amp


Socket Outlet

3-prong
locking plug Generator Safety
Earth

Page | 280
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX X – FAULT PIN-POINTING (BAUR)

Step 6

To Switch ON the Thumper

Brand : Thumper SSG 1500


1 2
Preparation
1. Ensure Key-Lock /
Emergency “Off” is
not engaged
(released).

3 4 2. Ensure Variac is at
“0” or minimum.
3. Select relevant
“Range”: 8 / 16 / 32
kV.
4. Ensure both rods on
SA 32 are pushed in.

Page | 281
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX X – FAULT PIN-POINTING (BAUR)

Step 7

Switch “ON” Thumper.

1. Switch ON LV Power
Supply from 3-pin
plug (13A/230V).
1 2
2. Switch ON main
switch (Toggle).
3. Press Button [O] –
HV Ready.
4. Press Button [ I ] –

3 4 HV ON.

Page | 282
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX X – FAULT PIN-POINTING (BAUR)

Step 8

Raise Thumper Voltage

 Rotate the Variac clockwise


to raise kV.

 Select Mode to “Pin-


pointing” mode: 3 seconds
or 2 seconds per impulse.

Note:

 Ensure thump
voltage is sufficient
or discharge is
consistent
(preferably maintain
at least 5kV
discharge or more).
 Change range if
necessary.
 Select range that
give a maximum
energy output.

Page | 283
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX X – FAULT PIN-POINTING (BAUR)

FUNCTIONAL PARTS DESCRIPTION

Parts / Features of Baur UL


30 Universal Receiver:

① ① Display Screen

② ② Keypad

③ Loudspeaker

④ Socket for BM30 Ground



Microphone

④ ⑤Headphone Outlet

⑥Input Socket for Sheath


Fault Stick

Component of Pin-Pointing
Set (BM 30 & UL 30)

 Receiver Unit (UL


30)
BM 30
 Ground Microphone
/ Sensor (BM 30)

 Headset (KH 30)


Receiver UL30

KH 30

Page | 284
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX X – FAULT PIN-POINTING (BAUR)

SETTING UP THE PIN-POINTING SET

Step 9

Pin-Pointing Set Connection

 Connect the
following
components to the
UL 30 Universal
Receiver Unit:
o Head Phone
(KH 20)

o Ground
Microphone
(BM 30)

PIN-POINTING SET OPERATION PROCEDURE

Step 10

Switch ON Receiver Unit

 Press the ON button


on the Receiver Unit.

Note: Ensure battery strength


is sufficient.

Page | 285
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX X – FAULT PIN-POINTING (BAUR)

Step 11
Select “Fault Location” Mode

 Select “Acoustic
Location” mode using
↓→← Arrows.

 Press OK to confirm.

Step 12
Adjust Magnetic Signal Level
 Select Magnetic Signal
adjustment using the
(←→arrows).
 Selection is highlighted
on the left side of the
display screen
 Press “OK” to confirm.
 Adjust the Magnetic
Signal level using the
(↑↓arrows).
 Press “OK” to confirm.

Page | 286
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX X – FAULT PIN-POINTING (BAUR)

Step 13

Select Acoustic Signal Level

 Select Acoustic
Signal level using the
(←→arrows)
 Selection highlighted
on the right side of
the display screen.
 Press “OK” to
confirm.
 Adjust Acoustic
Signal level
(↑↓arrows).
 Press “OK” to
confirm.

Page | 287
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX X – FAULT PIN-POINTING (BAUR)

Step 14

Activate Filter
 Select FILTER level
using the
(←→arrows)

 Selection highlighted
on the middle of the
display screen.

 Press “OK” to
confirm.

 Adjust the Filter


Frequency using the
(↑↓arrows) eg.
100Hz, 200Hz

 Press “OK” to
confirm.

Page | 288
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX X – FAULT PIN-POINTING (BAUR)

Step 15

Fast Changing Parameter

Configuration Plane  Use the “Switch-


Button” to select
Configuration Plane
from Working Plane.

Working Plane

Page | 289
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX X – FAULT PIN-POINTING (BAUR)

Step 16

Checking / Setting the


Magnetic Signal at the start
of the faulty cable (outside
the Substation)

 Check the Magnetic


Signal level before
advancing to the Pre-
located distance (left
side bar indication).

Page | 290
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX X – FAULT PIN-POINTING (BAUR)

APPROACHING THE FAULT

Step 17

During Pin-Pointing

 The Arrow / Mark on


the Ground
Microphone should
point towards the
cable route direction.

 Recommended
Magnetic Signal
should NOT be over

Acoustic Signal limit (about 70-80%).


Magnetic Signal
 When approaching
the fault (starting to
pick up Acoustic
Signal) lower the
acoustic signal level
to determine a more
exact fault point.

Page | 291
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX X – FAULT PIN-POINTING (BAUR)

 Observe the
estimated distance
as indicated on the
display.

 Lowest number
indicates close
proximity to the fault
or ### symbol.

 The number will


increase as we
passed the fault
point, but the
magnetic signal may
decrease.

 Normally the
magnetic and
acoustic signal will
come simultaneously
when pick up is
directly above the
fault.

Page | 292
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX X – FAULT PIN-POINTING (BAUR)

MARKING THE PIN-POINTED FAULT

Step 18

 Mark the pin -


pointed fault location
using spray paint or
other effective
method.

SWITCHING OFF

Step 19

To Switch OFF the UL30 Unit.

 Press the OFF button


to switch OFF the
Receiver Unit.

Page | 293
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX X – FAULT PIN-POINTING (BAUR)

Step 20

To Shut Down the Thumper

1. Reduce Variac to
minimum or zero.

2. Discharge the stored


1 2 charge by pressing the
“Single Shot” button.

3. It is recommended that
kV to be zero or close to
zero.
3 4

4. Push the [0] button to


OFF.
5. Switch OFF the main
switch.
5

Note: Recommended to use a


proper Discharge Rod to
discharge the cable terminals
at VCB & RMU before
disconnection.

Page | 294
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX X – FAULT PIN-POINTING (BAUR)

Step 21

 Switch OFF and unplug


the LV Mains (230 V) or

Generator supply.

Page | 295
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX XI – CABLE IDENTIFICATION

Step-By-Step Procedures for Cable Identification


Following are the step-by-step procedures to perform Cable Identification using
Cable Identification System.

CABLE IDENTIFICATION SYSTEM COMPONENT

TRANSMITTER CI TX

RECEIVER CI RX

Page | 296
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX XI – CABLE IDENTIFICATION

ACCESSORIES

Flexible
Identification Twisted Field Sensor Test Leads & Mains Supply
Clamp Earthing Lead Lead

PREPARATION ON EARTH CONNECTION

Open Earth Connection at Near End

Note: It is recommended to disconnect the near end earth connection and only
earth the corresponding core especially when the “signal” obtained is low.

Page | 297
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX XI – CABLE IDENTIFICATION

A IDENTIFY USING FLEXIBLE CLAMP

Principle of using Flexible Clamp Method

Open Earth
Connection

Overall Connection of Current Pulse Method – Calibration

PREPARATION ON VCB / RMU (NEAR END)

a) VCB Preparation (Near End)


 Ensure VCB is in “OFF /
Open” position (Locked &
Tagged).
 Prove Circuit Dead.

 Do NOT Cable Earth.

Page | 298
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX XI – CABLE IDENTIFICATION

b) RMU Preparation (Near


End)

 Ensure RMU switch is in


“OFF / Open” position
(Locked & Tagged).
 Prove Circuit Dead.
 Do NOT Cable Earth.

PREPARATION ON VCB / RMU (FAR END)

a) VCB Preparation (Far End)

 Ensure VCB switch is in


“OFF / Open” position.
 Prove Circuit Dead.
 Apply CME (Earth ON)
or loop the
corresponding phase to
earth.

Page | 299
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX XI – CABLE IDENTIFICATION

b) RMU Preparation (Far


End)

 Ensure RMU switch is in


“OFF / Open” position.
 Prove Circuit Dead.
 Apply CME (Earth ON) or
loop the corresponding
phase to earth.

IDENTIFICATION PROCEDURE

1. CALIBRATION – Setting signal at near end


2. COMPARISON – Detecting signal at far end
3. IDENTIFICATION – Detecting signal at “joint-pit”.

Page | 300
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX XI – CABLE IDENTIFICATION

1. CALIBRATION (AT NEAR END)


Step 1
Setting Up the Transmitter
 Red lead connects to the
RED Socket.
 Black lead connects to the
BLACK Socket.
 Green / Yellow lead
connects to the GREEN
Socket.
Step 2(a)

Connecting the Transmitter to VCB


Spout (Core to Sheath / Earth)
 Connect the Test Lead
(RED) to the test object (R
/ Y / B).
 Connect the Test Lead
(BLACK) to the cable
Screen / Earth.
 Connect the Earthing Lead
(Green/Yellow) to the
substation earth.

Page | 301
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX XI – CABLE IDENTIFICATION

Step 2(b)

Connecting the Transmitter to


RMU (Core to Sheath / Earth)

 Connect the Test Lead


(RED) to the test object (R
/ Y / B).
 Connect the Test Lead
(BLACK) to the main
substation earth.

 Connect the Earthing Lead


(Green / Yellow) to the
substation earth.

Page | 302
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX XI – CABLE IDENTIFICATION

Step 3
Switch ON the Transmitter (CI TX)
Transmitter – Battery Check
(Rechargeable)
 Press the ON / OFF button
 Green indication implies fully
charged.
 Yellow / amber indication
implies battery is getting weak.
 Red indication implies battery
requires immediate charging.

Transmitter – Signal Calibration


 Green indicate complete
circuit and can perform the
test.
 Yellow / amber indicate
weak signal but test can be
perform.
 Red indicate circuit is not
complete and test cannot be
perform.

Page | 303
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX XI – CABLE IDENTIFICATION

Step 4

Identification Clamp Connection

 Connect the Identification


Clamp to the receiver (CI
RX) by plugging-in to the
socket.

 Clamp the Identification


Clamp to the cable needed
to be identified, below the
Earth Lead.

 Arrow on the
Identification Clamp
should point towards the
Far End (earthed end) of
the cable.

Page | 304
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX XI – CABLE IDENTIFICATION

Step 5

Switch ON the receiver (CI RX) &


Battery Check

 Press the ON / OFF


button.

Step 6

Setting the “Gain”

 It is recommended to start
Green – point towards the
far end. from minimum gain and
slowly increase it.
 Press (+) and (-) button
until almost full deflection

Red – point towards the (green) is obtained.


near end (reverse  Do NOT adjust the gain
direction).
once it is set.

Page | 305
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX XI – CABLE IDENTIFICATION

Step 7

Adjust Over Gain Signal

 If the signal level is too


high, the green & red LED
on the max deflection will
flash to indicate over gain.
 Reduce the gain to resolve
the problem and obtain
almost full reflection.

2. COMPARISON (AT FAR END)

Step 8

Detecting the Signal

 Clamp the Identification


Clamp to the cable needed
to be identified, below the
cable earth braid.

Page | 306
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX XI – CABLE IDENTIFICATION

 Arrow on the
Identification Clamp
should point towards the
earthed end of the cable –
the direction of the signal
towards ground (Far End).
 Switch ON the Receiver CI
Rx.
 The Green LED will flash /
chase to indicate the
correct cable to be
identified.
 Record the signal level as
a reference for
identification at joint pit.
 Adjusting the “Gain” is
NOT ALLOWED.

Page | 307
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX XI – CABLE IDENTIFICATION

3. IDENTIFICATION (AT JOINT PIT)

Current Pulse Method - Identification

Step 9

 Arrow on the
Identification Clamp

Cable should point towards the


Earth earthed end of the cable
OFF
Cable Looped (Far End).
to Earth

Page | 308
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX XI – CABLE IDENTIFICATION

Step 10 (a)

Signal Indication – Correct Cable

 It should indicate good


green signal between far
end & near end signal
deflection (joint pit).

Step 10 (b)

Signal Indication – Wrong Cable

 Requires to repeat on
other cables. It should
show red signal or zero
signal.

Page | 309
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX XI – CABLE IDENTIFICATION

Step 11
 If obtained “Signal” is low, it is recommended to disconnect the near
end earth connection and only earth the core in concern.

Disconnect Earth Connection at Near End

Page | 310
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX XI – CABLE IDENTIFICATION

B IDENTIFY USING SENSOR COIL (TWISTED FIELD)

Principle of using Twisted Field Method

Move Sensor around the Cable

Page | 311
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX XI – CABLE IDENTIFICATION

PREPARATION ON VCB / RMU (NEAR END)

a) VCB Preparation (Near


End)

 Ensure VCB is in “OFF /


Open” position (Locked &
Tagged).
 Prove Circuit Dead.
 Do NOT Cable Earth.

b) RMU Preparation (Near


End)

 Ensure RMU switch is in


“OFF / Open” position
(Locked & Tagged).
 Prove Circuit Dead.
 Do NOT Cable Earth.

Page | 312
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX XI – CABLE IDENTIFICATION

PREPARATION ON VCB / RMU (FAR END)

a) VCB Preparation (Far End)

 Ensure VCB switch is in


“OFF / Open” position.
 Prove Circuit Dead.

 Apply CME (Earth ON)


or loop the two phases
that are connected to
the transmitter.

b) RMU Preparation (Far


End)

 Ensure RMU switch is in


“OFF / Open” position.
 Prove Circuit Dead.
 Apply CME (Earth ON) or
loop the two phases that
are connected to the
transmitter.

Page | 313
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX XI – CABLE IDENTIFICATION

1. CALIBRATION PROCEDURE (AT NEAR END)

Step 1

Setting Up the Transmitter


 Red lead connects to the
RED Socket
 Black lead connects to the
BLACK Socket.
 Green / Yellow lead
connects to the GREEN
Socket.

Step 2(a)

Connecting the Transmitter to VCB


Spout - Core to Core for Twisted
Field (Sensor)
 Connect the Test Lead
(Red) to one of the cores
(R / Y / B).
 Test Lead (Black) connects
to another core.
 Connect the Earthing Lead
(Green / Yellow) to the
substation earthing bar.

Page | 314
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX XI – CABLE IDENTIFICATION

Step 2(b)

Connecting the Transmitter to


RMU.
Core to Core for Twisted Field
(Sensor).

 Connect the Test Lead


(Red) to one of the cores
(R / Y / B).
 Test Lead (Black) connects
to another core.

 Connect the Earthing Lead


(Green / Yellow) to the
substation earthing bar.

Page | 315
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX XI – CABLE IDENTIFICATION

Step 3
Switch ON the Transmitter (CI TX)
Transmitter – Battery Check
(Rechargeable)
 Press the ON / OFF button
 Green indication implies fully
charged.
 Yellow / amber indication
implies battery is getting weak.
 Red indication implies battery
requires immediate charging.

Transmitter – Signal Calibration


 Green indicate complete
circuit and can perform the
test.
 Yellow / amber indicate
weak signal but test can be
perform.
 Red indicate circuit is not
complete and test cannot be
perform.

Page | 316
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX XI – CABLE IDENTIFICATION

Step 4

Identification Sensor Coil


Connection

 Connect the Identification


Sensor Coil to the receiver
(CI RX) by plugging in to
the socket.

Step 5

Switch ON Receiver (CI RX)

 Press the ON / OFF


button.
 Move the Identification
Sensor Coil around the
cable needed to be
identified, preferably
below the Earth Lead.

Page | 317
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX XI – CABLE IDENTIFICATION

 It should indicate high


signal (Green) & high
signal (Red) alternately.
 Set the gain of the
receiver using (+) and (-)
buttons until obtain
almost full deflection.
 Receiver indication
o Green / Red
(Almost Full
Range).
Step 6

Setting the “Gain”

 Set the gain of the


Green – point towards the
receiver using (+) and (-)
far end.
buttons until obtain
almost full deflection
(green).
 Do NOT adjust the gain
Red – point towards the near once it is set.
end (reverse direction).

Page | 318
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX XI – CABLE IDENTIFICATION

Step 7
Adjust Over Gain Signal

 If the signal level is too


high, the green & red LED
on the max deflection will
flash to indicate over gain.
 Reduce the gain to resolve
the problem and obtain

almost full reflection.

2. COMPARISON PROCEDURE (AT FAR END)

Step 8
Signal Detection
 Move the Identification
Sensor Coil around the
cable needed to be
identified, preferably
below the Earth Leads.
Note:
 It should alternately indicate
Green & Red Signal
 Record the signal level as a
reference for identification at
joint pit.
 DO NOT adjust the “Gain”.

Page | 319
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX XI – CABLE IDENTIFICATION

3. IDENTIFICATION PROCEDURE (AT JOINT PIT)

Step 9

Signal Detection

 Move the Identification


Sensor Coil around on the
cable needed to be
identified.
 Try on all other cables in
joint-pit.
Step 10(a)

Signal Indication - Correct Cable

 The signal should gradually indicate reasonably high signal (Green) &
high signal (Red) alternately and minimum / zero signal in between.

1 5

2 6

7
3

4 8

Page | 320
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX XI – CABLE IDENTIFICATION

Step 10(b)

Signal Indication - Wrong Cable


 It should indicate “0” signal or minimum signal.

Step 11

Switch OFF Receiver (CI RX) &


Transmitter (CI TX)

 Switch OFF the Receiver


Unit.
 Switch OFF the
Transmitter Unit.

Page | 321
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX XI – CABLE IDENTIFICATION

ADDITIONAL NOTE:

 Cable Looping
- Beware of “cable looping” which can cause confusion to the signal
direction.

Page | 322
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX XII – FAULT CONFIRMATION & RE–TEST (Baur)

Step-By-Step Procedures for Confirmation &


Re–Test (Baur)
Following are the step-by-step procedures for Confirmation & Re - Test using
Signal Generator (SSG 1500) / Thumper.

CONFIRMATION

Step 1
Cable Trench Excavation
 Expose the cable by excavating.
Step 2
 Prepare the connection of Surge Signal Generator (SSG 1500) /
Thumper.
Step 3
 Set the Surge Signal Generator (SSG 1500) / Thumper.
Step 4
Confirmation of Fault
 Observe the spark visually or by hearing the sound of the spark.

Before Thumping During Thumping

Page | 323
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX XIII – FAULT CONFIRMATION & RE–TEST (Baur)

Additional Note:
If sparking or flashing is not visible, steps should be taken to perform cable
tracing, identification and “spiking”.

Step 5

Switch OFF Surge Signal Generator (SSG) / Thumper


 Switch OFF the SSG / Thumper.
Step 6

Cut Off the Faulty Section


 Make arrangement to cut off the faulty cable section.

RE - TEST

Step 1

Re - Test
 Perform Insulation Resistance Test and Continuity Test to ensure
the correct cable and there is no multiple fault. Refer to Appendix I
and Appendix II.

Note: If multiple faults occurr repeat the entire fault locating process.

Page | 324
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX XIII – FAULT CONFIRMATION & RE – TEST (Megger)

Step-By-Step Procedures for Confirmation & Re–


Test (Megger)
Following are the step-by-step procedures for Confirmation & Re-Test using
Signal Generator (SPG 32-1750) / Thumper.

CONFIRMATION

Step 1
Cable Trench Excavation
 Expose the cable by excavating.
Step 2
 Prepare the connection of Surge Signal Generator (SPG 32-1750) /
Thumper.
Step 3
 Set the Surge Signal Generator (SPG 32-1750) / Thumper.
Step 4
Confirmation of Fault
 Observe the spark visually or by hearing the sound of the spark.

Before Thumping During Thumping

Page | 325
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX XIII – FAULT CONFIRMATION & RE–TEST (Megger)

Additional Note:
If sparking or flashing is not visible, steps should be taken to perform cable
tracing, identification and “spiking”.

Step 5

Switch OFF Surge Signal Generator (SSG) / Thumper


 Switch OFF the SSG / Thumper.
Step 6

Cut Off the Faulty Section


 Make arrangement to cut off the faulty cable section.

RE - TEST

Step 1

Re-Test
 Perform Insulation Resistance Test and Continuity Test to ensure the
correct cable and there is no multiple fault. Refer to Appendix I and
Appendix II.

Note: If multiple faults occurr repeat the entire fault locating process.

Page | 326
CABLE FAULT LOCATION MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

APPENDIX XIV – FAULT ANALYSIS TEST SHEET

INSULATION & CONTINUITY TEST REPORT

IR TEST FROM P/E … “A” ... IR TEST FROM P/E ….. “B” ……. CONTINUITY

NAME TO P/E ......” B” …… (MΩ) TO P/E ......” A” …… (MΩ) (Ω)


OF
FEEDER

R-E Y-E B- R- Y- B- R- Y-E B-E R-Y Y-B B-R R-Y Y-B B-R
E Y B R E

FEEDER

FEEDER

FEEDER

Page | 327
CABLE FAULT
LOCATION
MANUAL
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION, TNB

june2021
ASSET MANAGEMENT DEPARTMENT, TNB DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DIVISION

You might also like