Commissioning Switchgear, Low-Voltage and Circuit Breakers
Commissioning Switchgear, Low-Voltage and Circuit Breakers
Commissioning Switchgear, Low-Voltage and Circuit Breakers
Commissioning Low-Voltage
Switchgear And Circuit Breakers
Note: The source of the technical material in this volume is the Professional
Engineering Development Program (PEDP) of Engineering Services.
Warning: The material contained in this document was developed for Saudi
Aramco and is intended for the exclusive use of Saudi Aramcos employees.
Any material contained in this document which is not already in the public
domain may not be copied, reproduced, sold, given, or disclosed to third
parties, or otherwise used in whole, or in part, without the written permission
of the Vice President, Engineering Services, Saudi Aramco.
Chapter : Electrical
File Reference: EEX30208
Engineering Encyclopedia
Electrical
Commissioning Low-Voltage
Switchgear and Circuit Breakers
Content
Page
INTRODUCTION................................................................................................................ 1
SAUDI ARAMCO COMMISSIONING REQUIREMENTS ................................................ 2
Switchgear ................................................................................................................ 2
Circuit Breakers ........................................................................................................ 5
EVALUATING LOW-VOLTAGE SWITCHGEAR
AND CIRCUIT BREAKERS UPON RECEIPT ................................................................... 9
Visual Inspection....................................................................................................... 9
Verification Against Specifications ............................................................................ 9
Low-Voltage Switchgear Nameplate.............................................................10
Circuit Breaker Nameplate............................................................................11
EVALUATING LOW-VOLTAGE SWITCHGEAR AND CIRCUIT BREAKER
INSTALLATION AND TESTING......................................................................................13
Visual Inspection......................................................................................................13
Suitability .....................................................................................................14
Physical Damage...........................................................................................15
Alignment .....................................................................................................15
Cleanliness....................................................................................................15
Arc Chute Assembly .....................................................................................17
Contacts .......................................................................................................17
Mechanism/Linkage ......................................................................................18
Lubrication ...................................................................................................18
Mechanical Inspection ..............................................................................................18
Bolt Torque ..................................................................................................19
Door Operation ............................................................................................19
Rack In - Rack Out.......................................................................................19
Open/Close Operation...................................................................................20
Electrical Inspection .................................................................................................21
Insulation Resistance.....................................................................................22
Contact Resistance........................................................................................23
Engineering Encyclopedia
Electrical
Commissioning Low-Voltage
Switchgear and Circuit Breakers
Page
Engineering Encyclopedia
Electrical
Commissioning Low-Voltage
Switchgear and Circuit Breakers
Engineering Encyclopedia
Electrical
Commissioning Low-Voltage
Switchgear and Circuit Breakers
INTRODUCTION
The selection of the type and size of switchgear and the associated power circuit breakers are
based on the technical, installation, and economic requirements of a facility. Facility switchgear
and circuit breaker technical requirements include the system voltage level, fault current, and the
number and type of loads. Once the type of switchgear and circuit breakers for a given
installation are chosen, the switchgear is assembled and the circuit breakers are installed. The
commissioning process for low-voltage switchgear and circuit breakers in Saudi Aramco facilities
ensures that a safe and cost-effective system is installed and that this system will perform to the
specifications of the facility for the projected operating lifetime of the facility. Experience has
shown that the time and effort that is expended up front to ensure safety, quality control, and
adherence to Saudi Aramco and industry standards minimizes subsequent equipment failure.
The commissioning process for low-voltage switchgear and circuit breakers involves evaluations,
verifications, and checks that determine whether the proper switchgear and circuit breaker
specifications and installation requirements are met. Tests are also performed that determine
whether the electric power distribution system will operate properly and safely after installation.
When the low-voltage switchgear and circuit breakers are inspected and tested satisfactorily
during the commissioning process, the system should operate in accordance with manufacturer's
specifications for its maximum useful life.
This Module provides information on the following topics and subtasks that are pertinent to
commissioning low-voltage switchgear and circuit breakers for Saudi Aramco installations:
Saudi Aramco Commissioning Requirements
Evaluating Low-Voltage Switchgear and Circuit Breakers Upon Receipt
Evaluating Low-Voltage Switchgear and Circuit Breaker Installation and Testing
System Pre-Operational Check Out Phase Requirements
System Operational Testing Phase Requirements
Engineering Encyclopedia
Electrical
Commissioning Low-Voltage
Switchgear and Circuit Breakers
Engineering Encyclopedia
Electrical
Commissioning Low-Voltage
Switchgear and Circuit Breakers
Metal-enclosed low-voltage switchgear assemblies must be furnished from the manufacturer with
three-phase main and feeder buses, neutral bus (if specified), and ground bus. The incoming
power supply (with an associated isolation breaker) is connected to a three-phase main bus and a
neutral bus (if specified). The incoming power supply is sometimes called the "incomer." The
main bus supplies power to a feeder bus (and associated feeder breakers) that feeds multiple lowvoltage loads. Some switchgear may have multiple power supplies, in which case, the two power
supplies are joined by a "tie" bus (and an associated tie breaker) that can connect the two power
supplies. Each incoming or tie power circuit breaker must be located in a separate section of the
switchgear.
Engineering Encyclopedia
Electrical
Commissioning Low-Voltage
Switchgear and Circuit Breakers
To facilitate future system expansion and to minimize expansion modification costs, spare
switchgear compartments must be provided. The following unused compartments should be
provided at the end of each metal-enclosed low-voltage switchgear assembly and as specified in
the Engineering Drawings:
SPARE
SPACE
Engineering Encyclopedia
Electrical
Commissioning Low-Voltage
Switchgear and Circuit Breakers
Circuit Breakers
Low-voltage power circuit breakers provide low-voltage system and load isolation during normal
operation and maintenance evolutions. Low-voltage power circuit breakers also provide
automatic system fault isolation to prevent damage to connected equipment during overload,
abnormal, or fault conditions. Low-voltage power circuit breakers that are used in Saudi Aramco
installations are designed, rated, manufactured, and tested in accordance with the latest issue or
revision of the cognizant sections of ANSI/IEEE Standard C37. Each component of a
low-voltage power circuit breaker must be fully capable of interrupting the available system
short-circuit current that is indicated in the system engineering drawings. Each low-voltage circuit
breaker must have a three-phase short circuit current rating that is equal to, or larger than, the
rating of the switchgear assembly.
The low-voltage circuit breakers that are used in Saudi Aramco installations should be the
dead-front, removable, drawout, air type. Insulated case or molded case circuit breakers must not
be used in the place of power circuit breakers in low-voltage switchgear installations. Saudi
Aramco uses the General Electric (GE) AK-type, the Westinghouse DS-type, and the ABB KDtype low-voltage circuit breakers in switchgear installations. The minimum mandatory
requirements for the design and construction of a low-voltage circuit breaker are provided in
Work Aid 1.
Generally, low-voltage power circuit breaker contacts are operated by a stored-energy mechanism
in the form of springs; however, some low-voltage feeder breakers use manual operators.
Electrical operation of a low-voltage circuit breaker is used when the breaker is controlled
remotely, and manual operation is used when the breaker is controlled locally. Main breakers
(e.g., incomer) are usually electrically-operated. Feeder breakers are manually operated. In
electrically-operated breakers, the springs are electrically controlled through use of a charging
motor that maintains the closing springs in a charged state. The closing springs must develop
sufficient energy to close and latch the circuit breaker.
Figure 2 shows an example GE AKR, manually-operated, low-voltage circuit breaker. The
breaker is closed by first turning the manual operation handle up to four strokes to charge the
closing springs. Once the charging springs are charged, the breaker is closed by operation of the
close push-button. Some manually-operated low-voltage circuit breakers close on the final stroke
of the manual operation handle, and they do not have a close push-button. Some electricallyoperated low-voltage circuit breakers do not have a manual operation handle.
Engineering Encyclopedia
Electrical
Commissioning Low-Voltage
Switchgear and Circuit Breakers
Figure 2 shows one set of breaker contacts with the arc chute assembly removed. When the
breaker closes, the moving contacts close against the stationary contacts. To trip the breaker, a
trip push-button is operated. Low-voltage breakers use a shunt coil trip (or undervoltage release)
device for remote trip operations. The low-voltage breaker also uses a solid-state, direct-acting,
self-powered trip device. The trip device current trip levels are set at the breaker, and a portable
test instrument can be used to test each trip device setting. The nameplate contains low-voltage
circuit breaker manufacturer, type, and rating information.
Engineering Encyclopedia
Electrical
Commissioning Low-Voltage
Switchgear and Circuit Breakers
Low-voltage circuit breakers that are electrically operated must be equipped with the following:
Motor-operated, stored-energy (e.g., springs) operating mechanism.
Shunt trip coil (or undervoltage release) tripping mechanism.
Trip push-button.
Close push-button.
Manual closing spring charge operation handle.
Control devices (as indicated on Engineering drawings).
Figure 3 shows a closeup view of the low-voltage breaker contact structure for one phase of the
breaker with the arc chute assembly removed. The movable contact arm opens and closes to make
contact between the movable contacts and the stationary contact. When the breaker is closed, the
main contacts and the arcing contacts are held against the movable contact via pressure from the
contact springs on the contact pivot point. As the breaker opens, the main contacts open first,
which is followed by the arcing contacts. Because the arc interrupting contacts open last, the arc
that is formed when the breaker opens is forced up the arc runner. The number of main and
arcing contacts will vary based on the interrupting capability of the breaker. The arcing contacts
are easily differentiated from the main contacts because the arcing contacts angle out slightly
more than the main contacts.
Engineering Encyclopedia
Electrical
Commissioning Low-Voltage
Switchgear and Circuit Breakers
The removable metal frame that surrounds the low-voltage circuit breaker consists of the
necessary circuit breaker bus disconnecting contacts, wheels, and interlocks for drawout
application. The removable metal circuit breaker frame allows the circuit breaker compartment
door to be closed with the circuit breaker in the following four operational positions: connected,
test, disconnect, and fully withdrawn (e.g., removed). When a power circuit breaker is
padlocked, the breaker must not be able to be closed or moved to any other position.
Electrically- or manually-operated low-voltage circuit breakers use auxiliary devices. Auxiliary
devices are used for specific circuit breaker and electric power distribution system protection and
control. An example of a circuit breaker auxiliary device is a position indicator. The position
indicator is mechanically connected to the circuit breaker operating mechanism. An auxiliary
contact is also an auxiliary device. Auxiliary contacts consist of "a" (normally open) contacts and
"b" (normally closed) contacts. Normally open "a" contacts follow the position of the circuit
breaker (i.e., when the circuit breaker contacts are closed, the "a" contacts are closed). Normally
closed "b" contacts function the opposite to the position of the circuit breaker (i.e., when the
circuit breaker contacts are closed, the "b" contacts on the auxiliary switch are open). Auxiliary
contacts are used predominantly in electrical distribution protective relaying and breaker control
systems. An example of an auxiliary contact use is a breaker "a" contact that is in series with the
breaker trip coil. The "a" contact is only closed when the breaker is closed. The breaker "a"
contact prevents the trip coil from being energized unless the breaker is closed. Extra auxiliary
contacts must be provided by the manufacturer for Saudi Aramco use. The extra auxiliary
contacts are in addition to those contacts that are required for circuit breaker operation and
indication. An alarm switch must also be provided for remote indication of an automatic trip by a
protective device.
Engineering Encyclopedia
Electrical
Commissioning Low-Voltage
Switchgear and Circuit Breakers
Engineering Encyclopedia
Electrical
Commissioning Low-Voltage
Switchgear and Circuit Breakers
Generally, the verification against specifications consists of a determination of whether the type
and rating of the equipment that is to be installed matches the size and type of the equipment that
is required for the installation. In some cases, this determination is accomplished by reading an
electrical plan that identifies the low-voltage switchgear and circuit breaker sizes and types. The
Engineer inspects the manufacturer's nameplate data on each switchgear compartment and circuit
breaker, and he compares them to the requirements on the electrical plan to determine whether
the correct equipment is being used. In other situations, the Electrical Engineer must rely on his
knowledge of the correct application of switchgear and circuit breakers sizes and types to
determine whether the correct equipment is being used. The data sheets that were used to order
the switchgear from the manufacturer should also be consulted. Example switchgear data sheets
are provided in Work Aid 1. Any quality control, quality assurance, and test data that are
provided with the low-voltage switchgear and circuit breakers should also be reviewed. A
switchgear and circuit breaker applications checklist is provided in Work Aid 1. The checklist
itemizes what should be included in the verification of low-voltage switchgear and circuit breakers
against specifications.
Low-Voltage Switchgear Nameplate
All low-voltage switchgear that is used in Saudi Aramco power systems should have a nameplate
that is clearly visible on the front of the switchgear. The nameplate should contain manufacturertype information. The information that describes the type of switchgear should consist of the
manufacturer's name, the type designation, and the serial number. Because switchgear may
contain different assemblies at various voltages, nameplates should be present at each switchgear
segment. In accordance with ANSI C37, the manufacturer and rating information that should
appear on the low-voltage switchgear nameplate should contain the following ratings:
Rated frequency
Rated maximum voltage
Rated insulation level
Rated continuous current
Rated short-time current
Rated short-circuit current
Low-voltage switchgear and electric power distribution systems are designed to operate at a
specific frequency. Saudi Aramco electrical distribution systems are designed to operate at 60
Hz.
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Engineering Encyclopedia
Electrical
Commissioning Low-Voltage
Switchgear and Circuit Breakers
Low-voltage switchgear is designed for and should be marked with the maximum voltage at
which the switchgear can be applied. The rated maximum voltage levels of a low-voltage
switchgear is the highest rms voltage for which the switchgear is designed, and the rated
macimum voltage is the upper limit for operation. The rated maximum voltage levels of lowvoltage switchgear are 635 V, 508 V, or 254 V. The rated insulation level of low-voltage
switchgear at each maximum voltage rating is equal to the low-frequency one-minute withstand
voltage of 2.2 kV.
Low-voltage switchgear is designed for and should be marked with the continuous current that
the switchgear is capable of carrying and the fault current values that the switchgear is capable of
interrupting without damage to the switchgear. Specific current ratings for low-voltage
switchgear are as follows:
Rated Continuous Current at 60 Hz. The rated continuous current at 60 Hz is
the amount of current that can be continuously carried by the switchgear primary
circuit components (e.g., buses, bus connections) without exceeding switchgear
equipment allowable temperature rise. Examples of switchgear equipment are
primary or secondary circuit components, insulation, and switchgear structural
components.
The Rated Short-Time Current. The rated short-time current is the designated
limit of available current at which the switchgear must interrupt the current within
the required time at the rated maximum voltage. The required time is termed the
"rated short-time duty" and corresponds to two periods of one-half second current
flow that are separated by a 15-second interval of zero current.
The Rated Short-Circuit Current. The rated short circuit current of low-voltage
switchgear is the designated limit of available current at the rated maximum voltage
that the switchgear must be required to withstand for a period of no less than four
cycles (on a 60 Hz basis).
Circuit Breaker Nameplate
All circuit breakers that are used in Saudi Aramco power systems should have a nameplate that is
clearly visible on the front of the breaker. The nameplate should contain circuit breaker
manufacturer-type information. The information that describes the type of circuit breaker should
contain the manufacturer name, the type designation, and the serial number.
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Engineering Encyclopedia
Electrical
Commissioning Low-Voltage
Switchgear and Circuit Breakers
In accordance with ANSI C37, the manufacturer and rating information that should appear on the
circuit breaker nameplate should contain the following rating information:
Rated frequency
Rated maximum voltage
Rated continuous current
Rated short-circuit current at the rated maximum voltage
Rated short-circuit current
Circuit breakers and electric power distribution systems are designed to operate at a specific
frequency. Saudi Aramco electrical distribution systems are designed to operate at 60 Hz.
Low-voltage circuit breakers are designed for and should be marked with the maximum voltage at
which they can be applied. The rated maximum voltage of a low-voltage circuit breaker is the
highest rms voltage (three-phase or single-phase) at which the circuit breaker is designed to
perform. A low-voltage circuit breaker is generally rated at 635 V (600 V for a fused circuit
breaker), 508 V, or 254 V.
Circuit breakers are designed for and should be marked with the continuous current that the
breaker is capable of carrying and the short-circuit fault current values that the breaker is capable
of interrupting without damage to the breaker. Specific current ratings for low-voltage circuit
breakers are as follows:
Rated Continuous Current at 60 Hz. The rated continuous current at 60 Hz is
the amount of current that the low-voltage circuit breaker can continuously carry
without exceeding the allowable temperature rise.
The Rated Short-Time Current. The rated short circuit current is the designed
limit of available (prospective) rms current at which the circuit breaker will be
required to perform its short-time duty cycle at the rated maximum voltage. The
short-time duty cycle is defined by ANSI 37.13 as two periods of 1/2 second
current flow, which is followed by a 15-second interval of zero current. Unfused
low-voltage circuit breakers do not have a rated short-time current.
The Rated Short-Circuit Current at Each Rated Maximum Voltage
(Interrupting Rating). The rated short circuit current of an unfused low-voltage
circuit breaker is the designated limit of available current at which the circuit
breaker must interrupt the current within the required time at the rated maximum
voltage.
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Electrical
Commissioning Low-Voltage
Switchgear and Circuit Breakers
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Engineering Encyclopedia
Electrical
Commissioning Low-Voltage
Switchgear and Circuit Breakers
Because of the large number of inspection items that are associated with low-voltage switchgear
and circuit breakers, there are several courses of action for visual inspection failure. The course
of action to be taken depends on the part of the equipment that failed the visual inspection. A
failure of alignment, mechanism/linkage, lubrication, or cleanliness inspection can usually be
corrected through maintenance procedures. A physical damage or suitability inspection failure
will probably require the replacement of the damaged component.
The visual inspection of circuit breakers should be performed during the normal breaker
maintenance cycle as determined by Saudi Aramco procedures or once every 2,000 circuit breaker
operations if the circuit breaker short-circuit interrupting rating does not exceed 29 kA in
accordance with ANSI C37.06. Technical data to evaluate the results of the visual inspection can
be found in the switchgear and circuit breaker manufacturer's technical manual. The following
visual inspections are used to assess the condition of low-voltage switchgear and the associated
circuit breakers in Saudi Aramco systems:
Suitability
Physical Damage
Alignment
Cleanliness
Arc Chute Assembly
Contacts
Mechanism/Linkage
Lubrication
Suitability
The purpose of the visual inspection for suitability is to determine whether the switchgear and
associated circuit breakers are appropriate for the application in which they are placed. Under
normal circumstances, the suitability of the equipment should be determined before it is placed
into the system; however, a visual inspection should be performed to ensure that changes that may
have been made to the system have not exceeded the ratings of the switchgear or the associated
circuit breakers.
To determine the suitability of switchgear and the associated circuit breakers, a visual inspection
of the nameplate data should be performed and compared to the electrical system single line
diagram. For example, if the nameplate information on a circuit breaker does not match the
ratings of the electrical system, the circuit breaker should be replaced with a circuit breaker that is
correctly rated.
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Commissioning Low-Voltage
Switchgear and Circuit Breakers
Physical Damage
Physical damage to switchgear or to circuit breakers that are contained in switchgear can prevent
electric power distribution or can lead to switchgear or circuit breaker failure during critical
system operations. The magnitude of the electric energy that passes through switchgear and the
large forces that are required to open and close circuit breakers can propagate and amplify any
minor installation damage. Damage to switchgear and circuit breakers can lead to catastrophic
equipment failure, fire, personal injury, or death. Any physical damage to switchgear or circuit
breakers that is noted requires the immediate replacement of the damaged component. The most
obvious and common forms of physical damage are cracks, dents, missing or broken pieces, bent
doors, and burned out indicator lights. The purpose of the physical damage inspection is to
identify whether corrective maintenance or component replacement is necessary. Switchgear and
circuit breakers that show any form of physical damage, no matter how small, should be
determined to have failed the physical damage inspection.
Alignment
The purpose of the alignment inspection is to ensure that the switchgear and circuit breaker will
properly pass current when they are connected to the rest of the electrical system. Proper
alignment of a circuit breaker frame when it is installed in the switchgear will ensure that the line
and load buses are properly connected to the circuit breaker when the circuit breaker is racked in.
Improper alignment can cause uneven circuit breaker heating and wear. Due to the construction
of circuit breaker frames, circuit breakers that are out of alignment are usually visually obvious.
When the circuit breaker is properly aligned, the sides of the circuit breaker will be parallel to the
corresponding sides of the frame, and the proper clearance will be evident.
Cleanliness
The purpose of the cleanliness visual inspection is to ensure the proper operation of the
switchgear and the associated circuit breakers over the maximum operating life of the equipment.
The accumulation of dirt over a period of time will impede the proper operation of the circuit
breaker and will reduce the dielectric strength of the switchgear and circuit breaker insulation.
Dust and dirt can also reduce the speed and sensitivity of a circuit breaker under fault conditions.
The accumulation of large amounts of dust and dirt should be cleaned away from the switchgear
and associated circuit breakers during maintenance cycles. Switchgear that is installed in
extremely dirty, dusty, or humid areas may have to be cleaned more often than once during the
maintenance cycle.
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Electrical
Commissioning Low-Voltage
Switchgear and Circuit Breakers
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Electrical
Commissioning Low-Voltage
Switchgear and Circuit Breakers
Mechanism/Linkage
The mechanism/linkage assembly of a circuit breaker performs the actual movement of the
contacts when the breaker opens or closes. The purpose of the mechanism/linkage inspection is
to ensure that the mechanism/linkage can move freely. Free movement of the mechanism/linkage
will ensure that the circuit breaker can properly and rapidly operate the circuit breaker contacts.
The inspector should visually determine that no obstructions exist that will impede the movement
of the mechanism/linkage. This inspection will also ensure that when the open/close operation
test is performed, no circuit breaker damage can occur.
Lubrication
The lubrication visual inspection should be performed in conjunction with the mechanism/linkage
visual inspection. The purpose of the lubrication visual inspection is to ensure that the circuit
breaker mechanisms, the moving parts, the bearing points, and the sliding mechanics are properly
lubricated and free of rust.
Before the application of new lubrication can take place, hardened grease, dirt, and rust should be
removed from the surfaces that require lubrication. A cloth that is dampened with kerosene
should be used to remove the hardened grease and dirt. Care must be taken to ensure that the
cloth does not deposit fibers on the moving parts of the circuit breaker. The deposit of cloth fibers
on the moving parts of the circuit breaker can cause subsequent improper breaker mechanism
operation. After the proper preparation of the moving parts of the circuit breaker, a thin layer of
lubrication should be applied. Excess lubrication should be wiped off with a clean cloth.
Mechanical Inspection
A mechanical inspection is used to assess the ability of switchgear and the enclosed circuit
breakers to physically perform the mechanical movements that are necessary for proper operation.
Tests are also performed during the mechanical inspection to assess switchgear and circuit breaker
safety functions. Because of the large number of mechanical inspection items that are associated
with low-voltage switchgear and circuit breakers, there are several courses of action for
mechanical inspection failure. The course of action depends on the part of the equipment that
failed the inspection. A failure of mechanism operation can usually be corrected through
maintenance procedures. For example, a bolt torque test failure can be corrected through
adjustment of the bolts with a torque wrench.
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Electrical
Commissioning Low-Voltage
Switchgear and Circuit Breakers
The general mechanical inspections and tests that are performed on switchgear and circuit
breakers that are installed in Saudi Aramco systems are as follows:
Bolt Torque
Door Operation
Rack in - Rack Out
Open/close Operation
Bolt Torque
The purpose of a bolt torque inspection is to ensure that enough force is present to hold the
buswork and circuit breaker frames in place during circuit breaker operations and fault conditions.
To determine the amount of force that exists between a bolt and a circuit breaker, a torque
wrench is applied to the bolt in the direction that will tighten the bolt, and the amount of torque is
read. Torque values for switchgear are listed in the switchgear technical manuals, and torque
values for low-voltage circuit breakers are listed in the Saudi Aramco Low-Voltage Circuit
Breaker Pre-Commissioning form that is provided in Work Aid 2. The manufacturer of the circuit
breaker will also provide a list of acceptable torques in the circuit breaker technical manual.
Door Operation
Each switchgear circuit breaker compartment must be provided with a door (safety barrier). The
door should also contain an interlock that prevents the closure of the door unless the circuit
breaker is racked in or completely removed. During the mechanical inspection, each switchgear
compartment door operating mechanism (e.g., handles and locking bars) should be mechanically
operated during the mechanical inspection, and the door interlocks should be tested.
Rack In - Rack Out
When a breaker is racked into the switchgear, the line and load sides of the breaker contacts are
connected to the electrical system. Additional control power connections are made to enable the
circuit breaker to be remotely controlled and automatically operated. The purpose of a rack in rack out inspection is to ensure that the circuit breaker moves in and out of the switchgear freely
and that all connections and safety interlocks function correctly.
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Switchgear and Circuit Breakers
Circuit breakers generally have a test position to allow the operation of the breaker when it is at
the switchgear but is not connected to the electrical system. The circuit breaker test position
varies from manufacturer to manufacturer. Generally, as a circuit breaker is pushed into its
switchgear cell and the guides of the circuit breaker lock into place, the circuit breaker should be
in the test position. In the test position, the circuit breaker protrudes from the switchgear so that
the breaker operation can be observed. In the test position, the primary contacts of the circuit
breaker are not connected to the system, but the control circuitry of the circuit breaker can be
energized. In the test position, the circuit breaker can be cycled without affecting the rest of the
electrical distribution system. While the circuit breaker is in transit between the test and the fully
inserted position, the breaker should not have control power, and it should not operate.
Interlocks can be provided in low-voltage circuit breakers. Interlocks are designed to prevent the
unsafe operation of the circuit breaker. A typical interlock that is provided on most circuit
breakers is the rack in - rack out interlock. To prevent racking in or racking out a closed breaker,
circuit breakers are equipped with a rack-out interlock that trips a closed breaker when it is
moved from the fully inserted or test positions. A problem arises when a breaker has been closed
in the test position and the breaker is subsequently racked all the way to the fully inserted
position. If the breaker is closed, the busbar connections will complete the electric circuit as soon
as the busbar connections come in contact with the switchgear busbars. When a breaker is racked
into switchgear in the closed position, dangerous arcing and uncontrolled equipment startups
could occur. Conversely, if a closed breaker that is in the fully inserted position is racked out, the
current interruption would take place at the busbar connections instead of the breaker main
contacts. Because there is no arc-suppression mechanism at the busbar connectors, dangerous
arcing could occur. The rack-out interlock is designed to prevent dangerous arcing at the
switchgear busbar connections.
Generally, the mechanical inspections and tests that are performed on a circuit breaker follow a
logical progression. To perform the mechanical inspections and tests, the breaker is first racked
to the test position. In the test position, the circuit breaker is cycled and the breaker operation is
observed. The breaker is left in the closed position, and the breaker is racked towards the fully
inserted position. When the breaker leaves the test position, the breaker should trip. After the
breaker trips (from the rack-out interlock), the breaker is returned to the test position and cycled
a final time. During the racking operations, mechanical condition of all auxiliary devices,
bumpers, position indicators, latching, tripping, and operating mechanisms are checked for proper
operation.
Open/Close Operation
Some circuit breakers in Saudi Aramco electrical systems can go from maintenance cycle to
maintenance cycle without performing a single circuit interruption. A circuit breaker must always
be in a condition to operate no matter how infrequently the circuit breaker has been used. The
purpose of the open/close operation test is to ensure that the circuit breaker opens and closes
properly.
Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards
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Switchgear and Circuit Breakers
To perform the open/close operation test, the circuit breaker is racked to the test position. In the
test position, the circuit breaker is cycled, and the breaker operation is observed. The breaker
control power is then disconnected (or bypassed), and the breaker is manually closed and tripped.
During the opening and closing operations, the mechanical condition of all auxiliary devices,
bumpers, position indicators, latching, tripping, and operating mechanisms are checked for proper
operation. The moving contact travel for the circuit breaker is measured and recorded. The
manufacturer's technical manual should contain information on the minimum moving contact
travel distances.
Electrical Inspection
During the commissioning process, electrical inspections and tests are performed to check the
ability of the switchgear and circuit breakers to operate for a reasonable future period of time
under a variety of operating conditions and loads. Acceptance or installation tests will usually
detect shipping or installation damage and gross defects or errors in workmanship in equipment
construction. Once the installation and inspection data have been recorded and assembled, a
methodical and consistent program of periodic data collection and evaluation should be
established.
As each new maintenance item, test, splice, system addition, or system
reconfiguration occurs, new inspections and data records will be required and should be added to
the existing data on file.
Because an electrical inspection or test failure can be caused by a construction error, equipment
age, or operational misuse, some kind of troubleshooting or maintenance activity should be
performed on the faulty equipment. For example, a contact resistance test failure can be rectified
by cleaning the contacts to remove carbon build-up or by replacing the contacts. Some electrical
inspection or test failures are not repairable, and they will require the replacement of the
equipment before low-voltage switchgear and circuit breakers can be commissioned. For
example, an insulation resistance test failure usually indicates a gross imperfection in the circuit
breaker insulation.
The following electrical inspections, checks, and tests are performed on Saudi Aramco lowvoltage switchgear and circuit breakers:
Insulation Resistance
Contact Resistance
Functional Operation
Auxiliary Equipment
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Insulation Resistance
The purpose of the insulation resistance test is to directly measure the switchgear and circuit
breaker insulation resistance through use of a megger. In the insulation resistance test, the
megger is used to set up an electromagnetic field, and the field that is created is used to produce
leakage currents that will flow between the breaker phase and ground, or from phase to phase,
through the insulation. The amount of leakage current flow that is detected through use of the
megger results in a megger meter readout of insulation resistance (in megohms).
To conduct the insulation resistance test, the megger is connected between two conductors
(phases) and the megger is operated. Insulation resistance tests should be conducted phase-tophase and phase-to-ground on all buswork, bus insulation, and on the line side and the load side
of the each installed circuit breaker. Megohmmeter test voltages should be 1000 V dc. The
megger is then connected across the open contacts of one of the circuit breaker phases, and the
megger is operated. Similar megger readings are taken across each remaining phase contact pair
for every circuit breaker that is installed in the switchgear. The insulation resistance values are
recorded on a test data sheet or in the appropriate Saudi Aramco pre-commissioning form.
The Electrical Engineer should evaluate the insulation resistance (megger) test values to ensure
that the insulation resistance values that were recorded are greater than the manufacturer's
minimum value. If the manufacturer's minimum value is not provided, the value of the insulation
resistance should be greater than the rated voltage + 1 kV in megohms. For example, a 600 V
rated system should have a measured insulation resistance that is greater than 1.6 megohms. Any
value of insulation resistance that is less than the minimum specifications should be investigated by
the Electrical Engineer who performs the test data evaluation.
The ratio of two time-resistance readings (such as a 60-second reading that is divided by a 30second reading) is called a dielectric absorption ratio. The dielectric absorption ratio is useful in
recording information about the insulation. If the ratio is a ten-minute reading that is divided by a
one-minute reading, the value is called the polarization index.
Because constant cranking is required for hand-cranked megger instruments, it is easier to run the
test for only 60 seconds and take the first reading at 30 seconds. When a power-operated megger
instrument is used, the results of running the test for a full ten minutes and taking readings at one
and ten minutes will give the polarization index. An explanation of the evaluation of the dielectric
absorption ratio is provided in Work Aid 2.
In accordance with the International Electrical Testing Association (NETA), all of the acceptable
insulation resistance values should be determined through consultation with the appropriate
switchgear or circuit breaker manufacturer technical manual. The insulation resistance test should
only be performed during the commissioning of the low-voltage switchgear and circuit breakers
and during the first few maintenance cycles.
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Contact Resistance
The purpose of the circuit breaker contact resistance test is to identify contacts that are defective
or detrimental to the operation of the circuit breaker. The contact resistance test may also
identify loose connections in a circuit breaker. To conduct the contact resistance test, the circuit
breaker must be withdrawn from its compartment. With the circuit breaker in the closed position,
the leads of a digital, low-resistance ohmmeter should be placed across the line and load sides of
the circuit breaker, and measurements should be taken. A digital, low-resistance ohmmeter can
deliver enough power to the circuit breaker to make accurate readings that have more validity
than readings that can be obtained through the use of an ordinary multimeter. The contact
resistance is recorded on a test data sheet or in the Saudi Aramco Low-Voltage Circuit Breaker
Pre-Commissioning form, P-008.
Increased contact resistance may be caused by contacts that do not make proper contact or by
pitting on the surface of the contacts. The contact resistance values that are recorded should be
consistent with manufacturer recommended values. Generally, values of contact resistance in
excess of 200 micro-ohms and deviations of more than +/- 20% should be investigated. Technical
data to evaluate the results of the contact resistance test can be found in the circuit breaker
manufacturer technical manual or in the Saudi Aramco Low-Voltage Circuit Breaker PreCommissioning form, P-008.
Functional Operation
The functional operation test of the low-voltage switchgear and circuit breaker is the test that
ensures that all of the switchgear and circuit breaker parts are able to work in conjunction with
each other so that the circuit breaker can perform its protective responsibilities. Most of the tests
that have been performed so far have been tests that ensure the performance of the individual
parts of the low-voltage switchgear or circuit breaker. The functional operation test will ensure
that the parts will work together so that the switchgear operates correctly when it is installed in an
electrical system. To perform the functional operation test, the circuit breaker must be racked
into its switchgear compartment and put into the test position. In the test position, control power
is connected to the circuit breaker, but the main power connections remain unconnected.
Circuit breakers provide for normal circuit switching operations and provide a means for
disconnecting a faulty circuit or equipment from the electric system with minimum damage and
disturbance. Circuit breakers must be capable of closing, carrying, and interrupting the largest
fault possible at their location.
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To test the operation of a circuit breaker trip circuit, the circuit breaker test position is used. With
the circuit breaker in the test position, trip signals can be sent to the breaker via test equipment,
and the proper operational response of the circuit breaker can be monitored. With the breaker
contacts closed, a signal is sent to the instrument transformers that is strong enough to activate a
circuit breaker trip signal. The artificial trip signal should trip the circuit breaker and open the
circuit breaker contacts at the specified fault current level and within the specified amount of time.
The trip test process is repeated for each of the phases of the circuit breaker to ensure that a trip
signal that is initiated in any of the phases will trip the breaker. The functional operational trip
test information (e.g., current level and time) is recorded on a test data sheet or in the Saudi
Aramco correct pre-commissioning form. The functional operational trip test should be repeated
for each device that is capable of tripping the circuit breaker (e.g., undervoltage relay, overcurrent
relay, and thermal relay). Circuit breaker trip test data are recorded in the Saudi Aramco LowVoltage Circuit Breaker Pre-Commissioning Form, P-008.
Auxiliary Equipment
Auxiliary equipment that is used in low-voltage switchgear includes control, indicating, and test
equipment. Examples of such equipment include instrument transformers, fuses and fuse holders,
relays, annunciators, and meters. The low-voltage switchgear and circuit breaker auxiliary
equipment should be inspected, checked, and tested in accordance with the Saudi Aramco
Switchgear-General Pre-Commissioning Form, P-023.
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WORK AID 1:
Figure 7 shows a table of Saudi Aramco low-voltage power switchgear general requirements. The
requirements are excerpted from documented Saudi Aramco standards and specifications (e.g.,
16-SAMSS-502).
General
Requirements
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Figure 8 shows the data sheet that is used by Saudi Aramco to supply low-voltage switchgear
information to the manufacturer (Vendor)
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Figure 9 shows the data sheet that is used by the manufacturer (Vendor) to supply low-voltage
switchgear information to Saudi Aramco
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Figure 10 shows a table of rating, design, construction, and auxiliary device information for lowvoltage power circuit breaker installations.
Rating
Design
Construction
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Construction
(Contd)
Auxiliary
Devices
The removable element must permit closing the compartment door with the
circuit breaker in the following four operational positions:
connected
test
disconnect
fully withdrawn (or removed)
Each circuit breaker enclosure door must have a provision for padlocking
(with up to three locks) in all three open (off) positions. When padlocked,
the circuit breaker must not be able to be closed or moved to any other
position.
Each circuit breaker must be equipped with a position indicator that is
mechanically connected to the operating mechanism.
Unless specified otherwise, each circuit breaker must have a minimum of
four convertible auxiliary contacts, in addition to those contacts that are
required for circuit breaker operation and indication, that are available for
Saudi Aramco use.
An alarm switch must be provided for remote indication of an automatic
trip by an overcurrent or other protective device. The alarm switch must
not be operated by other trips.
A minimum of one "a" (normally open) contact and one "b" (normally
closed) contact must be provided.
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Rated Frequency
Verify that the circuit breakers do not use oil as the current interrupting medium.
Verify that the following low-voltage circuit breaker ratings are correct for the
application:
Rated Frequency
Verify that the circuit breaker's frame is sufficiently rated for the amount of
asymmetrical short-circuit current that the circuit can produce.
Verify that the circuit breaker's operational characteristics will provide adequate
protection for the electrical equipment that is in the circuit with the circuit breaker
(e.g., long-time-delay protection; short-time-delay protection; and instantaneous
protection).
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WORK AID 2:
NETA Checklists
The following checklist is excerpted from the International Electrical Testing Association (NETA)
checklist for the inspection of switchgear - general:
1.
2.
Compare the equipment nameplate information with the latest single line diagram
and report any discrepancies.
3.
4.
Inspect all bus connections for high resistance with a resistance ohmmeter. Check
the tightness of the bolted bus joints through use of a calibrated torque wrench.
Refer to the manufacturer's instructions for the proper foot-pound levels.
5.
Key interlock systems should be physically tested to ensure that they operate
properly as follows:
Attempt to close a locked open device.
Attempt to open a locked closed device.
Attempt to exchange keys with devices that are not in their normal operating
positions.
6.
All switchgear doors, panels, and sections must be inspected for paint, dents,
scratches, and proper fit.
7.
8.
9.
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The following circuit breaker test information is excerpted from the International Electrical
Testing Association (NETA) checklist for the inspection of low-voltage circuit breakers:
Circuit Breakers - Low Voltage (Air)
Visual and Mechanical Inspection
1.
Inspect for physical damage, cleanliness, and nameplate compliance with the single
line diagram.
2.
3.
The circuit breaker cell fit and element alignment must be checked.
4.
5.
Dashpots must be removed, inspected, cleaned, and refilled with proper oil.
6.
Make a very close inspection of the operation of main and arcing contact of the
circuit breaker to ensure that the springs that are responsible for maintaining
primary contact pressure are in good condition.
Electrical Tests
1.
2.
An insulation resistance test must be performed at 1,000 volts dc for one minute
from pole to pole, from each pole to ground, and across the open contacts of each
phase.
3.
4.
The long time delay must be determined by primary injection at 300% of the
pickup current.
5.
Short time pickup and time delay must be determined by primary injection of
current.
6.
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7.
8.
Adjustment must be made for final settings in accordance with the engineer's
prescribed settings.
9.
Auxiliary protective devices, such as ground fault or under voltage relays, must be
activated to ensure operation of shunt trip devices.
10.
If the circuit breaker has a charging motor, the springs and other devices that are
associated with this charging motor must be closely inspected. The circuit breaker
must be electrically operated to verify the performance of the limit switches
responsible for stopping and starting the charging motor.
11.
Circuit breakers with solid state trips must be tested in accordance with
manufacturer's instructions.
a.
b.
Secondary injection can be used for evaluating the electronic portion of the
trip unit.
Test Values
1.
2.
3.
Minimum pickup current, trip times, and instantaneous pickup values must be
adjusted to engineer settings. Test values should fall within manufacturer's
published time-current characteristic tolerance band.
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Range of
Rated
Continuous
Current,
Amperes
Minimum
(1)
240
240
600
600
240
600
600
600
600
600
*
(2)
15-45
50-100
15-45
50-100
110-225
110-225
250-450
500-600
700-1200
1400-2500
Thermal
Breakers
(3)
3
5
5
5
10
10
25
25
25
25
Magnetic
Breakers
(4)
--5
5
5
--10
10
10
Maximum
Tripping
Times for
Cable
Protection*
Maximum
(5)
50
70
80
150
200
200
250
250
450
600
(6)
100
200
100
200
300
300
300
350
600
750
These values are based on heat test conducted by circuit breaker manufacturers on
conductors in conduit.
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General
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Stationary
Switchgear
Structure
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Power Bus
Neutral and
Ground
Buses
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Figure 14 shows a table of low-voltage switchgear bus connection and cable termination
construction requirements.
Bus Bar
Connections
(General)
Main Bus
Tee-Off
Connections
Cable
Terminations
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Device
Nameplates
Warning
Plates
Device nameplates must be provided for the identification of each breaker and
auxiliary unit that indicate the served load and circuit number or the
equipment that is contained within a cubicle.
All front panel mounted devices must be identified by a nameplate on the front
of the panel and by a nameplate on the rear of the panel adjacent to each
device terminal.
All devices that are located within a panel must be provided with suitable
nameplates to identify the item and its function. No abbreviations are
permitted.
Protective relay nameplates must be provided to indicate the protective
function, the ANSI device number, and the phases that are monitored.
All device nameplates must be engraved laminated plastic with black 6.4 mm
(0.25 in) characters on a white 64 mm by 25 mm (2.5 in by 1 in) background
as a minimum.
Device nameplates must be in the English language according to American
usage.
Exterior and interior mounted nameplates must be attached with stainless steel
or brass screws.
Warning nameplates that read "CAUTION - THIS UNIT IS SUPPLIED BY
AN EXTERNAL VOLTAGE SOURCE!" must be provided on each
compartment door where an external voltage source is terminated.
Auxiliary cubicles that contain drawout or tilt-out potential transformers that
supply undervoltage relays must be provided with a warning nameplate that
reads: "CAUTION - OPENING THIS COMPARTMENT TRIPS
UNDERVOLTAGE RELAYS!"
Each electrically operated power circuit breaker must have a clearly identified
emergency trip button with a warning nameplate that reads: "EMERGENCY
TRIP"
Warning nameplates must be engraved laminated plastic with black letters on a
yellow background.
Warning nameplates must be written in both the Arabic and the English
language.
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Information, Formulas, and Tables for Use in Evaluating the Results of Insulation
Resistance (Megger) Tests
The results of all commissioning megger tests that are performed must be documented on the
appropriate Saudi Aramco pre-commissioning form.
The following are the types of megger tests that can be conducted:
Short time or spot reading
Time resistance
Dielectric Absorption Ratio
When the dielectric absorption ratio megger test is performed, the polarization index can be
determined through use of the following equation:
Figure 16 provides insulation conditions for 60/30 second ratio results and for 10/1 minute ratio
results.
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The following is an excerpt from GI 2.710, New Construction Check List Example, that
illustrates the overall checklist and sign-off for major pieces of electrical equipment.
3.
Electrical Equipment
All substations, power
cable, electrical equipment,
including lighting and
wiring, to be checked for
proper application,
operation, and grounds.
Distribution panels,
switches properly identified,
and all energization
certificate requests signed.
Construction Agency
Project Inspection
Commissioning (Note 1)
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Figure 19 shows an excerpt from GI 2.710, General Instruction Manual, that illustrates the
inspections and tests that should be performed on major pieces of electrical equipment prior to the
turnover of a facility.
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GLOSSARY
breaker rated
short-circuit current
dielectric absorption
ratio
polarization index
rated continuous
current at 60 hz
switchgear rated
short-circuit current
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