Mastering DC supply selection schemes for HV control

and protection panels

electrical-engineering-portal.com/dc-supply-selection-schemes-hv-control-protection-panels

By Muhammad Kashif March 11, 2024

DC Supply Selection Schemes

In this article, we will explore various aspects related to DC supply selection schemes, the
rationale behind their necessity, and the importance of redundancy and reliability in
maintaining uninterrupted power to control and protection panels. Additionally, we will
delve into the concept of pumping action in circuit breakers and the role of anti-pumping
circuits in mitigating its adverse effects.

Mastering DC supply selection schemes for HV control and protection panels (on photo: Micom relay
with test block; credit: Warna RS Sdn. Bhd. )

Through understanding these concepts, we can appreciate the significance of effective

supply selection and anti-pumping mechanisms in safeguarding electrical systems
against faults and ensuring continuous operation.

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The effective operation of control and protection panels in electrical systems relies heavily
on the selection and management of power supplies. Whether it’s in substations,
power plants, or other critical installations, the choice of power supply and the
implementation of robust selection schemes are paramount for ensuring system reliability
and integrity.

Ok, let’s get into the details!

Table of Contents:

1. Introduction to DC Supply Selection Scheme

1.1 Importance of Supply Selection in Control and Protection Panels

Supply selection is a critical feature in control and protection panels within substations,
power plants, and various electrical installations. This feature addresses two fundamental
questions:

1. The necessity of a supply changeover scheme, and

2. The rationale behind selecting DC supply for control and protection operations.

1.2 Why Supply Changeover Scheme is Necessary?

In substation and power plant environments, the primary functions include voltage
transformation, switching operations, voltage and reactive power control, and most
importantly, protection of transmission lines and associated equipment. However, during
fault conditions, the voltages drop while the currents surge.

If alternating current (AC) were utilized for control and protection devices, the supply
voltages would also dip during faults.

This scenario compromises the performance of control and protection systems,

potentially leading to delayed or erroneous responses, jeopardizing the stability and
integrity of the electrical grid.

To mitigate these risks, a supply changeover scheme is essential. This scheme

ensures that control and protection devices receive a stable and uninterrupted power
supply, even during fault conditions. By utilizing direct current (DC) supply for control and
protection systems, the impact of voltage fluctuations during faults is minimized, enabling
these critical components to operate reliably and efficiently.
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1.3 Rationale Behind DC Supply instead of AC Supply

DC supply is favored for control and protection operations due to its inherent stability
and resilience during fault conditions. Unlike AC, DC supply remains unaffected by
fluctuations in voltage and current, providing a consistent and reliable power source for
control and protection devices.

In substations, AC supply is typically converted to DC through rectifiers known as DC

chargers. These chargers not only supply power to control and protection devices but
also charge the battery banks simultaneously.

In the event of AC supply failure or voltage dips, the batteries serve as backup power
sources, ensuring uninterrupted operation of control and protection systems.

Figure 1 – AC supply distribution for 132 kV line relay panel (click to zoom)

Figure 1 – AC supply distribution for 132 kV line relay panel

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1.4 Redundancy and Reliability

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Substations are equipped with redundant systems to enhance reliability and minimize
downtime. This redundancy is exemplified by the provision of two battery banks and
chargers. In the event of a failure in one DC system, the second system can seamlessly
take over, ensuring continuous operation of control and protection systems.

Furthermore, circuit breakers at high voltage levels are equipped with redundant trip coils.
These coils are vital for the swift and reliable tripping of circuit breakers during fault
conditions. Delayed tripping can lead to excessive thermal and dynamic stresses on
power system components, potentially causing damage or even cascading failures.

Redundant trip coils mitigate this risk by providing backup functionality, ensuring that
faults are cleared promptly, and system stability is maintained. Hence, supply
selection in control and protection panels is indispensable for maintaining the reliability,
stability, and integrity of electrical power systems.
By utilizing DC supply and incorporating redundancy features, substations and power
plants can effectively mitigate risks associated with voltage fluctuations and equipment
failures, ensuring continuous and safe operation of critical infrastructure.

Figure 2 – DC supply distribution for 132 kV line relay panel (click to zoom)

Figure 2 – DC supply distribution for 132 kV line relay panel

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2. DC Supply Selection Scheme in the Protection Panel
In the realm of electrical power distribution, ensuring the reliability of protection
systems is paramount. The schematics of a 132kV Line protection panel often
incorporate sophisticated mechanisms to safeguard critical components such as distance
relays and backup overcurrent relays.

One common strategy involves implementing a dual DC power selection scheme, as

depicted in Figure 3. This scheme ensures that if one DC supply fails, the other supply
automatically takes over, thus maintaining uninterrupted operation of the protection panel.

Figure 3 – The schematic diagram for the selection of DC power in a dual power system

Figure 3 – The schematic diagram for the selection of DC power in a dual power system

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2.1 Dual Power Option for Distance and Backup Relays
In systems where only one distance relay is present, it becomes imperative to provide
a backup power option. This is achieved through a dual power selection scheme, allowing
both the distance relay and backup overcurrent relay to be powered from two separate
DC sources.

The selection scheme, facilitated by the auxiliary relay K14, ensures that in the event of
a DC supply failure, the backup power supply is seamlessly activated to sustain the
operation of the protection panel.

Figure 4 – Auxiliary relay K14

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2.2 Duplicate Protection Schemes

Another approach to enhance reliability involves duplicate protection schemes. In this

setup, two separate protection panels are employed, each supplied by its own dedicated
DC source. For instance, the first duplicate protection panel is powered by DC system 1,
while the second panel is powered by DC system 2.

In such cases, the need for supply selection is obviated, as each panel operates
independently with its own DC supply.

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2.3 Operation with Both DC Supplies Healthy

Consider the scenario depicted in Figure 5, where both DC supplies are functioning
optimally. The selection of DC supplies is orchestrated through the normally open and
close contacts of auxiliary relay K14. When both supplies are available, the auxiliary
relay K14 coil is energized through DC supply 1, allowing DC power to flow through MCB
F201 and energize the protection panel.

Notably, priority is given to DC supply 1 by default.

Figure 5 – The power supply selection process when both DC supplies are accessible

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 Figure 5 – The power supply selection process when both DC supplies are accessible

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2.4 Failure of DC Supply 1

In the scenario where DC supply 1 fails, the auxiliary relay K14 coil becomes de-
energized. As a result, the auxiliary contacts of the relay return to their normal positions.
Specifically, the normally open contacts 5-9 and 6-10 revert to their original state, while
the normally closed contacts 3-11 & 4-12 reset back to the closed position.

This means that the connection between DC supply 2 and the protection panel through
MCB -F201 is established, allowing DC supply 2 to power the panel.

Furthermore, with the de-energization of the K14 auxiliary relay coil, DC supply 1 is
effectively isolated from DC supply 2. This isolation is achieved because the normally
open contacts of K14 are now in the open position, breaking the connection between DC
supply 1 and the protection panel.
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2.5 Restoration of DC Supply 1
Upon restoration of DC supply 1, the system automatically switches back to utilizing this
supply as the default selection. The auxiliary relay K14 remains in its energized state, and
the protection panel is remained powered by DC supply 1, as illustrated in Figure 6.

Figure 6 – DC supply selection scheme simulation in the event of DC supply 1 failure

Figure 6 – DC supply selection scheme simulation in the event of DC supply 1 failure

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2.6 Scenario: DC Supply 1 Healthy, DC Supply 2 Failed

In situations where DC supply 1 remains healthy while DC supply 2 fails, the auxiliary
relay K14 remains energized through DC supply 1. Consequently, the control panel
continues to be supplied with DC supply 1, ensuring uninterrupted operation despite the
failure of DC supply 2.

The dual DC power selection scheme plays a pivotal role in enhancing the reliability and
resilience of 132kV Line protection panels. By providing redundant power options and
seamless switchover mechanisms, such schemes ensure uninterrupted operation,

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thereby safeguarding critical electrical infrastructure. Through careful design and
implementation, these systems uphold the highest standards of reliability in power
distribution networks.

Consider the case when the DC supply 1 is healthy, where as the DC supply 2 is failed, in
this case the auxiliary contactor K14 will remain energized through the DC supply 1
and control panel is still supplied with the default selected DC supply 1.
Refer to the Figure 7, indicating the simulation of circuit where DC supply 1 is healthy and
DC supply 2 is failed.

Figure 7 – Simulation of the DC supply selection scheme in the event of DC supply 2

failure

Figure 7 – Simulation of the DC supply selection scheme in the event of DC supply 2 failure

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3. Switching Time Vs, the Relay or Device Reset Time

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When considering the switching of DC supplies in case of a failure, it’s crucial to
recognize that each switch brings about a momentary voltage dip. This dip in voltage can
have implications, particularly concerning the reset time of relays or devices involved in
the system’s protection.

When the supply to a relay is switched off and on again, the device or relay undergoes a
restart process. During this restart period, the protection functions of the device are
temporarily disabled, leaving the system vulnerable. Additionally, there’s a risk of
malfunctioning during this restart phase.

To address this concern, it’s essential to determine the minimum duration below
which the relay will not reset in the absence of voltage. This duration is known as the
reset time of the device or relay. Thus, it becomes imperative to carefully select relays
that are fast-acting, ensuring swift response to supply switching events.
Moreover, it’s vital to compare the reset time of the device with the switching time of the
supply. The reset time should be longer than the device’s switching time to prevent the
relay from resetting during switching events. If the reset time is shorter than the switching
time, there’s a risk that the relay may reset prematurely, potentially compromising the
system’s protection.

In summary, when managing DC supply switching in critical systems, it’s crucial to

consider both the momentary voltage dips accompanying switching events and the
reset time of relays or devices.

Selecting fast-acting relays and ensuring that the reset time exceeds the
switching time are essential steps in maintaining the reliability and effectiveness
of the system’s protection mechanisms.

Suggested Reading – Electrical schematics with latch, step and lockout relays

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4. Concept of DC Mixing and Why It Must be Avoided

In substations or power plants, it’s common to have multiple DC battery banks and
systems serving various purposes such as backup power, control systems, or
instrumentation. However, these DC sources are often not synchronized, meaning their
voltage levels may differ. As a result, connecting the positive supply from one DC system
to another without careful consideration can lead to several issues.

Firstly, when two different DC sources come into contact, the behavior of the system
becomes unpredictable. The outcome depends on the characteristics of the sources and
their loads. If the sources have different voltage levels, a short circuit may occur, which
can lead to potentially damaging consequences for the sources and their connected
loads.

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This short circuit can result in excessive currents flowing through the system,
potentially damaging equipment and causing safety hazards!

To mitigate these risks, it is essential to carefully design and control the

interconnection of multiple DC power sources. Connecting them without proper
synchronization or isolation can lead to circulating currents, tripping of MCBs (Miniature
Circuit Breakers), and other operational issues.
During the design phase, it’s crucial to consider these factors and ensure that the DC
sources are properly isolated. Additionally, during commissioning, specific tests like the
DC mixing check are conducted to verify the integrity of the wiring and ensure that there
is no inadvertent connection between different DC sources.

The DC mixing check involves switching on the DC supply of only one loop or circuit at a
time and checking the voltages on all loops. The supply should only be available on the
loop connected to the MCB, indicating that the wiring is correct and there is no mixing
of DC between different circuits or systems.

In summary, careful consideration and testing are essential to prevent the unintended
mixing of DC sources in substations or power plants. By ensuring proper design,
isolation, and testing procedures, the risks associated with connecting multiple DC
sources can be minimized, ensuring safe and reliable operation of the electrical system.

Good Reading – Auxiliary DC power system used for fault detection, trip coils and remote
operation

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5. Anti Pumping Circuit in Circuit Breakers

To comprehend anti-pumping action, it’s essential to grasp the concept of pumping action
in circuit breakers. Imagine a scenario where an operator initiates a manual close
command using the discrepancy switch from the control room mimic panel. When this
close command is issued, the circuit breaker swiftly closes, typically within a duration
of 50-70 milliseconds.

However, the operator’s hand may linger on the discrepancy switch for a second or more,
potentially leading to unintended consequences.

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5.1 Pumping Action

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Now, let’s delve into a specific scenario known as switch-on-to-fault (SOTF). In this
situation, if the circuit breaker is closed while a fault is present in the system, the
protection relay promptly detects the fault and issues a trip command. Consequently, the
circuit breaker opens again.

However, since the operator’s hand may still be on the discrepancy switch, the breaker
closes once more, triggering another trip due to the persistent fault condition. This
repetitive cycle of closing and tripping resembles the action of a pump, hence earning the
term “pumping action” for the circuit breaker.

Figure 8 illustrates the circuit breaker closing circuit, featuring the closing coil denoted
as Yc and the anti-pumping relay labeled as K2.

Figure 8 – Circuit breaker closing circuit, with closing coil (Yc) and the anti-pumping relay
(K2)

Figure 8 – Circuit breaker closing circuit, with closing coil (Yc) and the anti-pumping
relay (K2)

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5.2 Continuous Cycling / Pumping Action

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The pumping action results in multiple on-off or trip cycles of the circuit breaker, creating
instability in the system. Each time the breaker closes, it triggers the protection relay to
trip again due to the persistent fault condition.

As a result, the breaker undergoes a continuous cycle of operation, akin to the repetitive
strokes of a pump.

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5.3 Implications

The pumping action of the circuit breaker poses significant challenges and risks to the
electrical system. It not only leads to frequent tripping, causing disruption to power supply
and potential damage to equipment, but also places undue stress on the breaker
mechanism itself.

Additionally, the repetitive cycling may exacerbate the fault condition, compounding the
severity of the issue.

Suggested Course – Circuit Breaker Schematics and Control Wiring Diagrams

Learn to Read and Analyze Circuit Breaker Schematics and Control Wiring Diagrams

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5.4 Anti-Pumping Action

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To address the issues arising from pumping action, anti-pumping mechanisms are
implemented in circuit breakers. These mechanisms are designed to prevent the
continuous cycling of the breaker in response to persistent fault conditions. By
incorporating features such as time delays or logic circuits, anti-pumping action ensures
that the breaker remains stable and avoids unnecessary tripping, thereby safeguarding
the integrity and reliability of the electrical system.

In summary, pumping action in circuit breakers occurs when the breaker undergoes
repetitive on-off or trip cycles due to persistent fault conditions. This phenomenon,
resembling the operation of a pump, can lead to instability and disruption in the electrical
system.
However, through the implementation of anti-pumping mechanisms, the adverse effects of
pumping action can be mitigated, ensuring the smooth and reliable operation of circuit
breakers in protecting critical infrastructure.

Figure 9 displays the circuit breaker closing circuit, highlighting the closing coil designated
as Yc and the anti-pumping relay identified as K2.

Figure 9 – Circuit breaker closing circuit, highlighting the closing coil designated as Yc
and the anti-pumping relay identified as K2

Figure 9 – Circuit breaker closing circuit, featuring the closing coil denoted as Yc and the
anti-pumping relay labeled as K2

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5.5 Understanding the Anti pumping Circuit
High voltage circuit breakers play a crucial role in protecting electrical systems by
interrupting the flow of current during fault conditions. To ensure reliable operation and
prevent damage to equipment, circuit breakers are often equipped with an anti-pumping
relay.

This relay serves to mitigate the risk of pumping action, a phenomenon where the breaker
undergoes repetitive on-off cycles due to persistent fault conditions.

Figure

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5.6 Components of High Voltage Circuit Breaker

A typical high voltage circuit breaker comprises a single closing coil and two tripping coils.
The closing coil, labeled as -Yc in the control circuit (refer to Figure 9), is responsible for
closing the circuit breaker upon receiving a command signal. Additionally, an anti-
pumping relay, denoted as K2, is incorporated into the circuit to prevent the undesirable
effects of pumping action.

The push button S1 is used to initiate the close command to the circuit breaker.

Suggested Course – Substation Equipment, Busbar Schemes and Relay Protection

Mastering Power Substations: Electrical Equipment, Busbar Schemes and Relay Protection

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5.7 Function of Anti-Pumping Relay

When the operator presses the push button S1, the closing coil -Yc of the circuit
breaker is energized through a normally closed contact. This action results in the closure
of the circuit breaker, allowing current to flow through the system. Simultaneously, the
anti-pumping relay K2 is also energized.

Upon energization, the anti-pumping relay K2 immediately opens its normally closed
contact 11-12. This action effectively interrupts the closing command signal to the circuit
breaker, preventing the possibility of continuous cycling caused by persistent fault
conditions.

As long as the operator keeps the push button S1 depressed, the anti-pumping relay
remains energized, ensuring that the normally closed contact 11-12 stays open.

Figure 10 – Circuit breaker closing circuit, with closing coil (Yc) and the anti-pumping
relay (K2)

Figure 10 – Circuit breaker closing circuit, with closing coil (Yc) and the anti-pumping
relay (K2)

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5.8 Effectiveness of Anti-Pumping Relay

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Despite the operator giving continuous commands for circuit breaker closure, only a brief
pulse is transmitted to the closing coil due to the action of the anti-pumping relay. This
ensures that the circuit breaker undergoes a single closing operation, eliminating the risk
of repetitive cycling and the associated detrimental effects on system stability and
equipment.

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5.9 Simulation of Anti-Pumping Relay

A simulation of the anti-pumping relay, depicted in Figure 10 above, illustrates its

functionality in preventing the undesired pumping action of the circuit breaker. The
relay effectively interrupts the continuous closing command, allowing for a controlled and
stable operation of the breaker.

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5.10 Conclusion

In conclusion, the anti-pumping relay plays a crucial role in maintaining the reliability and
stability of high voltage circuit breakers. By preventing the occurrence of pumping action,
the relay ensures that the breaker operates in a controlled manner, minimizing the risk of
damage to equipment and disruption to electrical systems.

Through its swift and effective action, the anti-pumping relay contributes to the overall
safety and efficiency of power distribution networks.

Figure 11 – An example of anti-pumping relay and it’s auxiliary contact depicted in CB

wiring diagram

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Figure 11 – An example of anti-pumping relay and it’s auxiliary contact depicted in CB wiring diagram

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6. Understanding Switches and Rotary Changeover Switches in

Electrical Circuits
A switch is a device used to make or break an electrical circuit. Unlike a push button,
which typically returns to its original state after being pressed, a switch remains in its
position once it’s changed. This means that if you flip a switch to turn a circuit on, it will
stay in the “on” position until you manually flip it back to the “off” position.

Switches could also have auxiliary contacts that are normally open and close
contacts. The switch could have more than two positions, if switch has two position to
select and it is also named as two position switch or change over switch. Figure 12,
represents the symbol of change over switch with normally open and close contacts. The
normal position of switch is open position in the schematics.

Similarly, if the switch has more than two positions to select, it is called a rotary switch or
simply the changeover switch. Figure, 12 represents the rotary changeover switch.

Figure 12 – Representation of the switches with NO and NC contacts

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 Figure 12 – Representation of the switches with NO and NC
contacts

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6.1 Varieties of Rotary Changeover Switches

Rotary changeover switches come in various configurations to suit different applications.

They are available as single-pole changeover switches, four-pole changeover switches,
and also in 2 and 3 pole configurations.

These switches find applications in industrial control, instrumentation, and machinery,

providing versatility for a wide range of electrical control needs.

Suggested Video – 63A 3 Position 12 Terminals Selection Cam Rotary Changeover

Switch

Watch Video At: https://youtu.be/MC16pB6mH00

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6.2 Range of Options

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The rotary changeover switch line offers flexibility in terms of the number of poles and
current ratings. It is available in configurations ranging from one to four poles, catering to
different circuit requirements.

These switches can handle currents from 1 to 175 amps, ensuring compatibility with
various electrical systems and loads.

Figure 13 – Varieties of rotary changeover switches

Figure 13 – Varieties of rotary changeover switches

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6.3 Contact Material and Design

The rotary changeover switches feature silver alloy contacts on the rotary cam. These
contacts are designed to double break, meaning they make and break the circuit at two
points simultaneously, enhancing reliability. The unique design of these contacts
maintains high pressure, ensuring consistent and reliable contact even under demanding
conditions.

This design feature contributes to increased contact reliability and long service life, crucial
for industrial and machinery applications where reliability is paramount.

Figure 14 – Silver alloy contacts in rotary changeover switch

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 Figure 14 – Silver alloy contacts in rotary changeover switch

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6.4 Gold Plating Option

Additionally, the contacts of rotary changeover switches can be gold plated for low-power
applications. Gold plating offers advantages such as improved conductivity, corrosion
resistance, and low contact resistance, making it suitable for applications where precise
and reliable signal transmission is required, such as in instrumentation or low-voltage
circuits.

Figure 15 – Rotary switch with control knob and the set of the auxiliary contacts (In
orange color) connected the switch mechanism

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 Figure 15 – Rotary switch with control knob and the set of the auxiliary
contacts (In orange color) connected the switch mechanism

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7. BONUS! Complete Drawings of 132kV GIS Line Relay Panel and

GIS Control Cubicle (PDF)
Download BONUS: Download Complete Drawings of 132kV GIS Line Relay Panel and
GIS Control Cubicle (205 pages, PDF) (for premium members only):
Download (ZIP, 4.44MB)

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