Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Practicum Report On Switch Gear Equipment
Practicum Report On Switch Gear Equipment
On
ID: 16205013
Program: BSEEE
i
Practicum Report
On
ID: 16205013
Program: BSEEE
ii
Letter of Transmittal
4, Embankment Drive Road, Uttara Model Town Sector 10, Uttara, Dhaka-1230,
Bangladesh.
Sir,
With due respect, I would like to approach you that it is a great opportunity as well as
immense pleasure for me to submit this report titled “ Maintenance and Manufacturing
of Switchgear Equipment and PFI Plant” for the fulfillment of our practicum course.
Sincerely Yours,
_____________
ID: 16205013
Program: BSEEE
iii
Certificate
iv
Student’s Declaration
____________
ID# 16205013
Program: BSEEE
v
Executive Summary
vi
Acknowledgements
All praise is to the Supreme Being; creator and ruler of the universe, Almighty Allah,
whose mercy keeps us alive and to pursue my education in Bachelor of Science in
Electrical and Electronic Engineering and to complete the Practicum Report which is
entitled as “Maintenance and Manufacturing of Switchgear Equipment and PFI
Plant”. In the process of conducting this practicum report, I would like to express my
gratitude and respect to some generous persons for their immense help and enormous
cooperation.
At first, I would like to express my hearty reverence, profound adoration and devout
respect to our honorable Vice Chancellor, Professor Dr Abdur Rab for giving me
chance to study in this university.
I will never forget my instructor, Turiqul Islam Tonmoy for his cooperative attitude
for my report and also for giving me courage to do this work.
vii
Contents
Certificate..................................................................................................................................iv
Student’s Declaration.................................................................................................................v
Executive Summary..................................................................................................................vi
Acknowledgements..................................................................................................................vii
Chapter 1....................................................................................................................................1
Introduction................................................................................................................................1
1.1 Introduction....................................................................................................................3
1.2 Background.....................................................................................................................4
1.3 Learning Objectives.........................................................................................................5
1.4 Company Overview.........................................................................................................5
1.5. Management Philosophy..............................................................................................6
1.5.3 Mission.......................................................................................................................7
1.5.5 Spirits.........................................................................................................................7
Chapter-2....................................................................................................................................9
Switchgear Equipment...............................................................................................................9
2.1 Switchgear....................................................................................................................10
Essential Features of Switchgear........................................................................................11
Types of Switchgear:............................................................................................................12
viii
2.2.1 Switch......................................................................................................................15
2.2.7 Relays.......................................................................................................................19
The relay is the device that open or closes the contacts to cause the operation of
the other electric control. It detects the intolerable or undesirable condition with
an assigned area and gives the commands to the circuit breaker to disconnect the
affected area. Thus protects the system from damage.It can be divided into three
parts viz.............................................................................................................................19
Chapter: 3.................................................................................................................................22
3.1 HT Panel........................................................................................................................23
3.1.1 Basic Functions of HT Panel...................................................................................24
3.2.4 Voltmeter.......................................................................................................29
Advantages of HRC Fuse.................................................................................................31
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3.2.11 Heat Sensor..................................................................................................35
3.2.12 Heater..........................................................................................................36
3.3 Vacuum Circuit Breaker (VCB) Panel.................................................................36
Figure 3.3: Vacuum Circuit Breaker (VCB) Panel.....................................................36
Advantages of VCB......................................................................................................37
Disadvantages of VCB.................................................................................................37
3.3.1. Main Part of VCB Panel.....................................................................................37
3.3.2. Vacuum Circuit Breaker (VCB).......................................................................38
3.3.3 Potential Transformer (PT).............................................................................38
3.3.4 Current Transformer (CT)...............................................................................39
3.3.5 Relay..............................................................................................................40
3.3.6 Bus-Bar...........................................................................................................40
3.4 LT Switchgear................................................................................................................41
3.4.1 Major Components of LT Switchgear Panel...........................................................42
Chapter: 5.................................................................................................................................57
Conclusion................................................................................................................................57
x
5.1 Recommendation..........................................................................................................58
5.2 Conclusion....................................................................................................................58
Reference............................................................................................................................58
xi
List of Figures
Figure 2.2.8: Bus-bar....................................................................................................11
Figure 3.1: HT Panel..................................................................................................
Figure 3.2.1:LBS Panel................................................................................................13
Figure 3.2.3: Potential Transformer.............................................................................14
Figure 3.2.4: Voltmeter................................................................................................15
Figure 3.2.5: HRC Fuse...............................................................................................16
Figure 3.2.6: Bushing & Bus-Bar................................................................................17
Figure 3.2.8: Limit Switch...........................................................................................17
Figure 3.2.9: Current Transformer...............................................................................18
Figure 3.2.11: Heat Sensor...........................................................................................19
Figure 3.2.12: Heater....................................................................................................19
Figure 3.3: VCB Panel.................................................................................................20
Figure 3.3.2: Vacuum Circuit Breaker (VCB).............................................................21
Figure 3.3.3: Potential Transformer (PT).....................................................................22
Figure 3.3.4: Current Transformer (CT)......................................................................22
Figure 3.3.5: Relay.......................................................................................................23
Figure 3.3.6: Bus-Bar...................................................................................................23
Figure 3.4: LT Switchgear Panel.................................................................................24
Figure 3.4.2: Bus-bar....................................................................................................25
Figure 3.4.3: Miniature Circuit Breaker (MCB)..........................................................26
Figure 3.4.5: Molded Case Circuit Breaker (MCCB)..................................................27
Figure 3.4.6: Air circuit breaker(ACB)........................................................................27
Figure 3.4.7: Fuse.........................................................................................................28
Figure 3.4.8: Multimeter..............................................................................................28
Figure 3.4.9: LED........................................................................................................29
Figure 3.4.10: Current Transformer.............................................................................30
Figure 4.1: Power Factor Improvement (PFI) Panel....................................................31
Figure 4.1.2: Capacitor Bank.......................................................................................33
Figure 4.1.3: Magnetic Contactor................................................................................34
Figure 4.1.4: APFC Relay............................................................................................35
Figure 4.1.5: HRC Fuse...............................................................................................36
Figure 4.1.6: Control Fuse...........................................................................................36
Chapter 1
Introduction
1 1
2 2
1.1 Introduction
In an electric power system, switchgear is composed of electrical disconnect
switches, fuses or circuit breakers used to control, protect and isolate electrical
equipment. Switchgear is used both to de-energize equipment to allow work to be
done and to clear faults downstream. This type of equipment is directly linked to the
reliability of the electricity supply.
The earliest central power stations used simple open knife switches, mounted on
insulating panels of marble or asbestos. Power levels and voltages rapidly escalated,
making opening manually operated switches too dangerous for anything other
than isolation of a de-energized circuit. Oil-filled switchgear equipment allow arc
energy to be contained and safely controlled. By the early 20th century, a switchgear
line-up would be a metal-enclosed structure with electrically operated switching
elements, using oil circuit breakers. Today, oil-filled equipment has largely been
replaced by air-blast, vacuum, or SF6 equipment, allowing large currents and power
levels to be safely controlled by automatic equipment.
High-voltage switchgear was invented at the end of the 19th century for
operating motors and other electric machines.[1] The technology has been improved
over time and can now be used with voltages up to 1,100 kV.[2]
3
1.2 Background
Switchgear plays a vital role in the overall power distribution and consumption
system. Generally speaking, switchboards are the term one uses to designate low
voltage switching whereas switchgear connotes HT usage scenarios. The term
“switch” brings to mind a device that makes or breaks an electrical contact. In the
industrial and LT/HT context switchgear is more complex as switchgear dealers will
tell you. Switchgear is typically classified into categories like low voltage/low tension
switchgear, medium voltage switchgear and high voltage-high tension switchgear. A
typical system has the power components and control system with a variety of safety
and monitoring features. One of the best names in the switchgear business is Larsen &
Toubro. L&T Switchgears are the first choice of industries and power distribution
companies for their total reliability and faultless performance.
Circuit breakers
Isolators
Relays, coils
Disconnect switches
All these components of switchgear may be contained in a suitable metal cabinet that
is usually earthed for safety reasons. However, HT distribution systems with large
circuit breakers and switchgear are usually housed in a building.
Apart from switching on and off electricity supply, switchgear must also control
power to the load, detect overload conditions and have features to automatically trip,
such as circuit breakers. This protects the equipment that consumes power and it also
keeps cables and switchgear protected. Switchgear may also have multiple sources of
supply and automatically switch load in case one source fails.
4
1.3 Learning Objectives
The learning objectives of the switchgear are-
Introduction to switchgear
Switchgear equipment
Fuse, Circuit breakers, relays
Bus-Bar
Current transformer
Potential transformer
HT panels
LT panels
Power factor improvement panel
5
1.5. Management Philosophy
The management philosophy of the Powermann Bangladesh Limited is “to produce
High-quality engineering that create a possible impression and satisfy customer by
Applying the local technologies we have developed throughout our history with the
Aim of contribution to a more affluent way of life”. Taking advantage of our
engineering expertise thus acquired, Powermann will continue to create impact and
offer satisfaction in local markets; earn the unwavering confidence and respect of
customers; enter in to global markets and ensure long-term growth and continuously
enhance corporate value well into the future. In order to enhance corporate value in
this way, we consider it essential that the company cultivate a youthful corporate
climate and willingness to new challenge and implements; adopt an equitable
personnel evaluation system that encourages employees to demonstrate their abilities
as much as possible and gain a thorough understanding of global environment
protection and compliance.
The same United Register is also maintaining the regular audits and also achieved
ISO 9001-2008 for operating as ‘QUALITITY MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS’ form
GLOBAL, Australia. Powermann is also started working environment issues.
Total Quality Management followed all over the company. In all the area of factory
and offices entire work-culture is maintaining 5S (SEIRI, SEITON, SEISO,
SEIKETSU, SHITSUKE) and QC Circle is bringing the talent floor/field level to top
level.
Quality Control is carried on the in every step of production, from incoming raw
material to finished product to ensure quality of each product in the line of
6
international standard. The company is committed and focused on continuous
improvement on quality management system with zero defects in the end product.
1.5.3 Mission
To be top in the power sector with the very positive power of people.
1.5.4 Vision
To create quality power products with world class accuracy and to provide round the
clock services to the clients in a very competitive price.
1.5.5 Spirits
The spirits of Powermann ltd are as follows-
Working hard and aiming high.
Serving and devoting to through customers.
Working with unity and solidarity.
Co-operation in a friendly way with colleagues and clients.
Developing through reforms.
Seeking truth from facts.
Depending upon fairness and honor.
Always abiding by laws and regulations.
Making contribution to the nation by developing industry.
Raise voice of customers.
7
1.5.6 Products Handling
They are stirring the products very carefully. When they handle the products, they
maintain some criteria and that are as follows -
Manufacture, Supply, Installation of –
Distribution transformer up to 4000KVA, 33KV
Power transformer up to 10/14 MVA, 33KV
MV & LV switchgear up to 33KV
PFI plant, Distribution board
All kind of metering panel & units
Industrial control & Automation panel
Motor control center
Industrial voltage stabilizer (IVS)
11KV Load Break Switch & Vacuum Circuit Breaker
8
Chapter-2
Switchgear Equipment
9
2.1 Switchgear
The apparatus used for controlling, regulating and switching on or off the electrical
circuit in the electrical power system is known as switchgear.The switches,
fuses, circuit breaker, isolator, relays, current and potential transformer, indicating
instrument, lightning arresters and control panels are examples of the switchgear
devices.The switchgear system is directly linked to the supply system. It is placed in
both the high and low voltage side of the power transformer. It is used for de-
energizing the equipment for testing and maintenance and for clearing the fault.
When the fault occurs in the power system, heavy current flow through equipment
due to which the equipment get damaged, and the service also get interrupted. So to
protect the lines, generators, transformers and other electrical equipment from damage
automatic protective devices or switchgear devices are required.
The automatic protective switchgear mainly consists of the relay and circuit breaker.
When the fault occurs in any section of the system, the relay of that section comes
into operation and close the trip circuit of the breaker which disconnects the faulty
section. The healthy section continues supplying loads as usual, and thus there is no
damage to equipment and no complete interruption of supply.[5]
10
Essential Features of Switchgear
Complete Reliability
Absolutely certain discrimination
Quick operation
Provision for manual control
1. Complete reliability
With the continued trend of interconnection and the increasing capacity of generating
stations, the need for reliable switchgear has become of paramount importance.
This is not surprising because it is added to the power system to improve reliability.
When a fault occurs on any part of the power system, they must operate to isolate the
faulty section from the remainder circuit.
When a fault occurs on any section of the power system, the switchgear must be able
to discriminate between the faulty section and the healthy section.
It should isolate the faulty section from the system without affecting the healthy
section. This will ensure continuity of supply.
3. Quick operation
When a fault occurs on any part of the power system, the switchgear must operate
quickly so that no damage is done to generators, transformers and other equipment by
the short-circuit currents.
If the fault is not cleared quickly, it is likely to spread into healthy parts, thus
endangering complete shut down of the system
11
4. Provision for manual control
Switchgear must have provision for manual control. In case the electrical (or
electronics) control fails, the necessary operation can be carried out through manual
control.
Types of Switchgear:
The switchgear is mainly classified into two types are-
1. Outdoor type
2. Indoor type
Outdoor type
For voltage above 66kV, the output switchgear is used. Because for the high voltage,
the building work will unnecessarily increase the installation cost owing to large
spacing between the conductor and large size of insulators.
Indoor type
Below the 66kv there is no difficulty in providing the building work for the
switchgear at a reasonable cost. The indoor type switchgear is of metal clad type and
is compact. Because of the compactness, the safety clearance for operation is also
reduced and thus reduced the area required.
Low voltage switchgear (LV).
Medium voltage switchgear (MV).
High voltage switchgear (HV).
12
2.1.2 Low Voltage (LV) Switchgear
13
Other special applications
Ultimately, all the functions mentioned must be undertaken with a high degree of
reliability and safety.
Air Insulated High Voltage Switchgear: This type uses air as the main insulating
material for conductive components in the switchgear.
Gas Insulated High Voltage switchgear: It is a type of high voltage switchgear that
uses superior dielectric gas (SF6) as the main insulating material for conductive
elements within the switchgear.
14
2.2 Switchgear Equipment
Switchgear covers a wide range of equipment concerned with switching and
interrupting currents under both normal and abnormal conditions. It includes switches,
fuses, circuit breakers, relays and other equipment. A brief account of these devices is
given below.[5]
1. Switch
2. Fuse
3. Circuit breaker
4. Relay
5. Bus bar
2.2.1 Switch
a switch is an electrical component that can disconnect or connect the conducting path
in an electrical circuit, interrupting the electric current or diverting it from one
conductor to another. The most common type of switch is an electromechanical
device consisting of one or more sets of movable electrical contacts connected to
external circuits. Switches are made in many different configurations; they may have
multiple sets of contacts controlled by the same knob or actuator, and the contacts
may operate simultaneously, sequentially, or alternately. A switch may be operated
manually, for example, a light switch or a keyboard button, or may function as
a sensing element to sense the position of a machine part, liquid level, pressure, or
temperature, such as a thermostat.
15
2.2.2. Air Break Switch
The switch whose contacts open in the air and quenching of an arc achieves by
compressed air, such type of switch is called an air break switch.The air acts as a
dielectric medium for the air-break switch. It is more effective and reliable as
compared to another switch.The air break switch is operated manually when their
handle is placed on a ground level.
The air break switches install in outdoor and mainly use for switching and
isolation. The air break switch is mostly installed in the distribution network as a
switching point. It interrupts the small excitation current of a transmission line or the
capacitive charging current. The maximum voltage for the switches is up to 35kV.
The air-break switches are classified into two types. They are Single-Pole Air-Break
Switch and the Gang Operated Air-Break Switch.
Single pole air-break switch uses for the opening of only one conductor. And for the
opening of more than one conductor at a time gang operated air break switch is used.
The switches which opened together are called the gang switches. The air-break
switches are installed in two ways, i.e., either horizontally or vertically and it is placed
on the pole top or in pad mounted metal enclosure.[1]
16
2.2.4. Oil Switch
An oil switch is a high-voltage switch whose contacts are opened and closed in oil.
The switch is actually immersed in an oil bath and contained in a steel tank. The
reason for placing high- voltage switches in oil is that the oil will break the circuit
when the switch is opened. With high voltages. a separation of the switch contacts
does not always break the current flow because an electric arc forms between the
contacts. If the contacts are opened in oil. the oil will quench the arc.
2.2.5 Fuse
A fuse is a current sensitive piece of wire – when the fuse is working the wire is not
broken, when the fuse has ‘blown’ the wire breaks.
17
2.2.6 Circuit Breakers
A circuit breaker is a switching device that interrupts the abnormal or fault current. It
is a mechanical device that disturbs the flow of high magnitude (fault) current and in
additions performs the function of a switch. The circuit breaker is mainly designed for
closing or opening of an electrical circuit, thus protects the electrical system from
damage.
Circuit breaker essentially consists of fixed and moving contacts. These contacts are
touching each other and carrying the current under normal conditions when the circuit
is closed. When the circuit breaker is closed, the current carrying contacts, called the
electrodes, engaged each other under the pressure of a spring.
During the normal operating condition, the arms of the circuit breaker can be opened
or closed for a switching and maintenance of the system. To open the circuit breaker,
only a pressure is required to be applied to a trigger.
Whenever a fault occurs on any part of the system, the trip coil of the breaker gets
energized and the moving contacts are getting apart from each other by some
mechanism, thus opening the circuit.[11]
The most general way of the classification of the circuit breaker is on the basis of the
medium of arc extinction. Such types of circuit breakers are as follows :-
18
Minimum Oil Circuit Breaker
2.2.7 Relays
The relay is the device that open or closes the contacts to cause the operation of the other
electric control. It detects the intolerable or undesirable condition with an assigned area and
gives the commands to the circuit breaker to disconnect the affected area. Thus protects the
system from damage.It can be divided into three parts viz.
Under normal load conditions, the e.m.f. of the secondary winding of C.T. is small
and the current flowing in the relay operating coil is insufficient to close the relay
contacts. This keeps the trip coil of the circuit breaker unexercised. Consequently, the
contacts of the circuit breaker remain closed and it carries the normal load current.
19
When a fault occurs, a large current flow through the primary of C.T. This increases
the secondary e.m.f. and hence the current through the relay operating coil. The relay
contacts are closed and the trip coil of the circuit breaker is energized to open the
contacts of the circuit breaker.[3]
The bus bar system consists the isolator and the circuit breaker. On the occurrence of
a fault, the circuit breaker is tripped off and the faulty section of the busbar is easily
disconnected from the circuit.
The electrical bus bar is available in rectangular, cross-sectional, round and many
other shapes. The rectangular bus bar is mostly used in the power system. The copper
and aluminium are used for the manufacturing of the electrical bus bar.
20
The most common of the bus-bars are 40×4mm (160 mm2); 40×5 mm (200 mm2) ;
50×6 mm (300mm2) ; 60×8 mm (480 mm2) ; 80×8 (640 mm2) and 100×10 mm
(1000 mm2).
The various types of busbar arrangement are used in the power system. The selection
of the bus bar is depended on the different factor likes reliability, flexibility, cost etc.
The following are the electrical considerations governing the selection of any one
particular arrangement.
21
Chapter: 3
HT and LT Part
22
HT Switchgear
The High Tension switchgear are used switching for system voltage of mid level
(6.305KV – 33KV) as well as high level voltage (33KV-230KV). For lower capacity
of sub-station it is used as LBS but for higher capacity of sub-station it used as VCB,
MOCB, SF6-CB these are facilitating both manual or remote operation.
3.1 HT Panel
HT panel is a metal enclosure fitted with HT Circuit Breakers, relays &metering that
is used to receive 11KV/33KV supply (from one or more source) & distribute the
power through its outgoing feeders. Outgoing feeder may be one or more it depends
on the load of the building.
23
Figure 3.1: HT Panel
CONSTRUCTION
Single bus-bar
24
Power coating point
Main Features
LBS (Load Break Switch) type: Its need for (250kVA-500kVA) transformer
OCB (Oil Circuit Breaker) type: Its need for (1250kVA-above) transformer
25
3.2.1 Load Break Switch(LBS)Pannel
A load break switch ie. on load break switch (LBS) which is a capable small fault
current breaking switchgear.This protective equipment is used at 11 kV sub-station.
The main Load Break Switch
(LBS) mechanism is available for 630A & the over current protection scheme is done
through
HRC fuse. The panel includes 3 numbers of CT (Current Transformer) & 2/3 numbers
of PT
(Potential Transformer) for measuring system current & voltage respectively & 3
numbers of
HRC (High Rupturing Capacity) Fuses for protection of overload. The scheme is so
designed
26
that if fault occurs in any phase it will isolate the whole three phases from the system
instantly.
The panel also includes 3 numbers of Ampere meters & one number of Voltmeter
with selector
switch for monitoring system current & voltage. The standard panel size is
900x900x1800 mm &
weight is around 450 kg [6]. I have given the picture of load break switch as shown in
Figure 5.2.
Load break switch can deenergize circuits under normal operating conditions. It
should
be capable of making and breaking normal load currents. The load break switch must
be able to
At the bottom of the figure we could see the three CTs. Those are connected in series
with the 3 load break switches. The HRC fuses are put with these LBSs. There are
PTs as well
on the head of the fuses to assist the voltmeters to take the reading. Load break
switches are not
used that much. These are basically used instead of VCBs sometimes. It depends on
the client’s need.
Advantage of LBS
It is very economical compare to the VCB panel. Hence many clients order it to
reduce the cost.
27
Disadvantage of LBS
There are lots of disadvantages involved in it. Here fuses need to be replaced after
once it
1. Potential Transformer
2. Voltmeter
3. HRC Fuse
6. Limit Switch
7. Current Transformer
8. Ammeter
9. Heat Sensor
10. Heater
28
instruments such as voltmeters, wattmeters, power factor meters etc. These potential
transformers provide 100v to 150 v on their secondary winding so that the measuring
instruments are connected easily according to their input voltages and these are
sufficient to operate in this range of voltage. Measuring instruments such as
wattmeters, voltmeters which are connected to the secondary winding of potential
transformer provide low readings according to their input voltage. The exact readings
are obtained from these measuring instruments by dividing the transformation ratio.
So that we can easily obtain the exact amount of voltage with the help of potential
transformer[10]. I have given the picture of PT as show in figure
3.2.4 Voltmeter
I have given the picture of voltage measuring instrument as show in figure, that
instrument measures voltages of either direct or alternating electric current on a scale
usually graduated in volts, millivolts (0.001 volt), or kilovolts (1,000 volts). The
29
typical commercial or laboratory standard voltmeter in use today is likely to employ
an electromechanical mechanism in which current flowing through turns of wire is
translated into a reading of voltage. Other types of voltmeters include the electrostatic
voltmeter, which uses electrostatic forces and, thus, is the only voltmeter to measure
voltage directly rather than by the effect of current. The potentiometer operates by
comparing the voltage to be measured with known voltage; it is used to measure very
low voltages. The electronic voltmeter, which has largely replaced the vacuum-tube
voltmeter, uses amplification or rectification (or both) to measure either alternating-
or direct-current voltages. The current needed to actuate the meter movement is not
taken from the circuit being measured; hence, this type of instrument does not
introduce errors of circuit loading.The instruments just described provide readings
in analogue form, by moving a pointer that indicates voltage on a scale. Digital
voltmeters give readings as numerical displays. They also provide outputs that can be
transmitted over distance, can activate printers or typewriters, and can feed into
computers. Digital voltmeters generally have a higher order of accuracy than analogue
instruments.[
30
3.2.5 HRC Fuse
This type of fuse contains a fuse wire in it, which carries the short circuit current
safely for a given time period. During this period, if fault is removed, then it does not
blow off otherwise it will melt and remove the circuit from electrical supply hence,
the circuit remains safe.
The common material, which is used to make an HRC fuse is glass, but this is not
always the case.
HRC Fuse consists of highly heat resistant material (such as ceramic) body having
metal-end caps, which is welded by silver current carrying element. The fuse body
internal space is completely packed with a filling powder.When a fuse blows out the
tripping device during the fault condition, it will cause the circuit breaker to operate.
The body of fuse is made of ceramic material with a metallic cap fixed at each end.
They are connected by series of silver fuse elements. There is a plunger at one end,
which hits the tripping mechanism of circuit breaker under fault conditions, which
leads it to operate the circuit. The plunger is connected through a fusible link and a
tungsten wire to the other end of the cap.As fault occurs, the first element to be blown
out is silver fuse and current is transferred to tungsten wire. The travel of the plunger
is set such a way that is not ejected from the fuse body during fault conditions[4].I
have given the picture of HRC fuse as show in figure
31
Require no maintenance.
Heat being produced by the arc may affect the associated switches.
32
3.2.7 LBS ON/OFF Switch
We use a manual on-off switch to control the LSB panel. We control the line through
this switch.
33
3.2.9 Current Transformer
The ratio of primary current to the secondary current is known as the current
transformation ratio of the CT. Usually the current transformation ratio of the CT is
high. Normally the secondary ratings are of the order 5 A, 1 A, 0.1 A, whereas the
primary ratings vary from 10 A to 3000 A or more.
The CT handles much less power. Rated burden can be defined as the product of
current and voltage at the secondary side of the CT. It is measured in volt ampere
(VA)[7]. I have given the picture of CT as show in figure
Functions of CT
34
proportional to those of power circuit but sufficiently reduced in magnitude.
A current transformer also isolates the measuring instruments from high voltage
circuits.
3.2.10 Ammeter
The meter uses for measuring the current is known as the ammeter. The current is the
flow of electrons whose unit is ampere. Hence the instrument which measures the
flows of current in ampere is known as ampere meter or ammeter.The ideal ammeter
has zero internal resistance. But practically the ammeter has small internal resistance.
The measuring range of the ammeter depends on the value of resistance. In LBS
ammeter connected with C.T by Series Connection.
35
2. Low life cycle cost
3. Stability
4. Operation under varied environmental conditions
3.2.12 Heater
Switchgear space heaters are designed minimize moisture inside electrical and
mechanical equipment enclosures and also maintain temperature.
36
Advantages of VCB
Vacuum offers the utmost insulating strength. So it has extreme superior arc
quenching properties than any other medium.
Disadvantages of VCB
The main disadvantage of VCB is that it is uneconomical at voltages
exceeding 38 kVolts.
The cost of the breaker becomes excessive at higher voltages. This is due
to the fact that at high voltages (above 38 kV) more than two numbers of
the circuit breaker are required to be connected in series.
Moreover, the VCBs production is uneconomical if produced in small
quantities.
37
3.3.2. Vacuum Circuit Breaker (VCB)
A breaker which used vacuum as an arc extinction medium is called a vacuum circuit
breaker. In this circuit breaker, the fixed and moving contact is enclosed in a
permanently sealed vacuum interrupter. The arc is extinct as the contacts are
separated in high vacuum. It is mainly used for medium voltage ranging from 11 KV
to 33 KV.Vacuum circuit breaker has a high insulating medium for arc extinction as
compared to the other circuit breaker. I have given the picture of VCB board as show
in figure
38
consists of a large number of turns which is connected across the high voltage side or
the line in which measurements have to be taken or to be protected. The secondary
winding has lesser number of turns which is connected to the voltmeters, or potential
coils of wattmeter and energy meters, relays and other control devices. These can be
single phase or three phase potential transformers.Since the voltmeters and potential
coils of other meters have high impedance, a small current flows through the
secondary of PT. Therefore, PT behaves as an ordinary two winding transformer
operating on no load. Due to this low load (or burden) on the PT, the VA ratings of
PTs are low and in the range of 50 to 200 VA.
V1/V2 = N1/N2
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Figure 3.7: Current Transformer (CT)
3.3.5 Relay
Relays control one electrical circuit by opening and closing contacts in another
circuit. Relays are generally used to switch smaller currents in a control circuit and do
not usually control power consuming devices.Protective relays can prevent equipment
damage by detecting electrical abnormalities, including overcurrent, undercurrent,
overloads and reverse currents. In addition, relays are also widely used to switch
starting coils, heating elements, pilot lights and audible alarms.
3.3.6 Bus-Bar
Busbar is a metallic strip or bar, typically housed inside switchgear, panel boards,
and busway enclosures for local high current power distribution. They are also used to
connect high voltage equipment at electrical switchyards, and low voltage equipment
in battery banks. They are generally uninsulated, and have sufficient stiffness to be
supported in air by insulated pillars. These features allow sufficient cooling of the
conductors, and the ability to tap in at various points without creating a new joint. I
have given the picture of Bus-bar as show in figure
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Figure 3.9: Bus-Bar
3.4 LT Switchgear
In industries and domestic’s applications, various electrical and electronics devices
and distribution boards such panels use. Low tension panels receive power from a
generator or transformer and distributor. It is also a kind of electrical distribution
board.Most of the LT Panels (Low Terminal) are making and designed for work with
low electricity consumption. It is also more cost-effective.
To provide luxury living for the human, in the continuity of the electrical supply for
the load appliances like fans, motors, etc. Low Terminal (LT) Panel plays a critical
role in industry and factory[9].
41
Construction
Features
Precise Design
Cost effective
Long Lifetime
Safety
42
3.4.2 Bus-bar
The bus bar air-protected and made of high caliber and high conductivity, high-
quality aluminum. The interconnection between bus bars and different parts will be
high conductivity aluminum. The bus bars will have uniform cross-segment all
through the length. The bus bars and interconnections will protect with heat
shrinkable PVC sleeve. And be shading cod is red, yellow, blue and dark to
distinguish the three stages and impartial of the LT board. I have given the picture of
Bus-bar as show in figure
Switching function : Switching function for the MCB permits the association/
separation of the LT panel.
Insurance function : Protection function of MCB must seclude the LT panel in case of
over current and over – burden and short circuits. I have given the picture of MCB as
show in figure
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Figure 3.4.3: Miniature Circuit Breaker (MCB)
MCCB operates
The MCCB uses a temperature sensitive device (the thermal element) with a current
sensitive electromagnetic device (the magnetic element) to provide the trip
mechanism for protection and isolation purposes. This enables the MCCB to provide:
Overload Protection,
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Electrical Fault Protection against short circuit currents, and
Overload Protection
The thermal protection of the MCCB will typically have a time delay to allow a short
duration of overcurrent which is commonly seen in some device operations, such as
inrush currents seen when starting motors. This time delay allows the circuit to
continue to operate in these circumstances without tripping the MCCB.
Electrical Fault Protection against short circuit currents
45
In addition to tripping mechanisms, MCCBs can also be used as manual
disconnection switches in case of emergency or maintenance operations. An arc can
be created when the contact opens. To combat this, MCCBs have internal arc
dissipation mechanisms to quench the arc.
Open the circuit automatically when a fault occurs. Faults can be of various types
– under or over voltage, under or over frequency, short circuit, reverse power,
earth fault etc.
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The main feature of ACB is that it dampens or quenches the arcing during
overloading.
3.4.7 Fuse
fuse is an electrical safety device built around a conductive strip that is designed to
melt and separate in the event of excessive current. Fuses are always connected in
series with the component(s) to be protected from overcurrent, so that when the fuse
blows (opens) it will open the entire circuit and stop current through the
component(s). A fuse connected in one branch of a parallel circuit , of course, would
not affect current through any of the other branches.
Normally, the thin piece of fuse wire is contained within a safety sheath to minimize
hazards of arc blast if the wire burns open with violent force, as can happen in the
case of severe overcurrents. . In the case of small automotive fuses, the sheath is
transparent so that the fusible element can be visually inspected. I have given the
picture of MCCB as show in figure
3.4.8 Multimeter
A multimeter, also known as a volt-ohm meter, is a handheld tester used to measure
electrical voltage, current (amperage), resistance, and other values. Multimeters come
in analog and digital versions and are useful for everything from simple tests, like
measuring battery voltage, to detecting faults and complex diagnostics. They are one
of the tools preferred by electricians for troubleshooting electrical problems on
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motors, appliances, circuits, power supplies, and wiring systems. I have given the
picture of MCCB as show in figure
Multimeters are capable of many different readings, depending on the model. Basic
testers measure voltage, amperage, and resistance and can be used to check
continuity, a simple test to verify a complete circuit. More advanced multimeters may
test for all of the following values:
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Accessories or special sensors can be attached to some multimeters for additional
readings, such as:
Light level
Acidity
Alkalinity
Wind speed
Relative humidity
3.4.9 LED
Light emitting diodes, commonly called LEDs, are real unsung heroes in the
electronics world. They do many different jobs in all kinds of devices. They form
numbers on digital clocks, transmit information from remote controls, light up
watches and tell you when your appliances are turned on. Collected together, they can
form images on a jumbo television screen or illuminate a traffic light.
Basically, LEDs are just tiny light bulbs that fit easily into an electrical circuit. But
unlike incandescent bulbs, they don't have filaments that burn out, they use less
electricity, and they don't get especially hot. They're illuminated solely by the
movement of electrons in a semiconductor material, and they last just as long as a
standard transistor. The life span of an LED surpasses the short life of an incandescent
bulb by thousands of hours. Because of these advantages, tiny LEDs are one of the
most popular technologies used to light LCD TVs.
49
circuits from the high voltage of the primary system. A current transformer provides a
secondary current that is accurately proportional to the current flowing in its primary.
The current transformer presents a negligible load to the primary circuit
50
Chapter: 4
Power Factor Improvement (PFI) Plant
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4.1 Power Factor Improvement (PFI) Plant
Power factor (PF) is the ratio of working power, measured in kilowatts (KW), to
apparent power, measured in kilovolt amperes (KVA. Apparent power, also known as
demand, is the measure of the amount of power used to run machinery and equipment
during a certain period. It is found by multiplying (KVA= V x A). The result is
expressed as KVA units. To calculate power factor, we need a power quality analyzer
of power analyzer that measures both working power (KW) and apparent power
(KVA), and to calculate the ratio of KW/KVA.
OR
PF = W/VA
Power Factor of the system is degraded due to inductive load of different industries
and big apartments. Powermann manufactures PFI (Power Factor Improvement) Plant
for improving the degraded Power Factor of the system. They have microprocessor
based PFC (Power Factor Correction) relay up to 24 stages. The Capacitors they use
are of different ratings (2.5, 5, 10, 20, 25, 50 KVAR…. etc) and corresponding
Magnetic Contactor for suitable stepping of the Capacitor bank. Sometimes they also
use detuned Reactor with the Capacitors for harmonic filtration of the system[13].I
have given the picture of PFI plant as show in figure
52
Figure 4.1: Power Factor Improvement (PFI) Plant
Reduction in size of a conductor and cable which reduces cost of the Cooper
Saving in energy as well as rating and the cost of the electrical devices and
equipment is reduced
53
Disadvantages of low power factor
Poor power factor means that we are using power inefficiently. This matters to
companies because it can result in:
Finally, power factor increases the overall cost of a power distribution system because
the lower power factor requires a higher current to supply the loads
Capacitor Bank
Magnetic Contactor
APFC Relay
HRC Fuse
Control Fuse
Improving power factor means reducing the phase difference between voltage and
current. Since the majority of loads are of inductive nature, they require some amount
of reactive power for them to function.A capacitor or bank of capacitors installed
parallel to the load provides this reactive power. They act as a source of local reactive
power, and thus less reactive power flows through the line.Capacitor banks reduce the
54
phase difference between the voltage and current. I have given the picture of
Capacitor bank as show in figure
55
4.1.4 APFC Relay
There will be a main incoming circuit breaker from main bus which voltage needs to
be maintain APFC. APFC will monitor this voltage.
PFI panel will be individual capacitor banks with individual CB of different KVAR
based on your requirement.
APFC will monitor the bus voltage and whenever the voltage dips, first cap bank of
some KVAR will be switched on by sending close command from APFC. even after
switching on one bank and still voltage is still dip, next bank also will be switched on.
I have given the picture of APFC as show in figure
56
Under overload condition the fuse element will not blow off but if the condition exists
for prolonged period, the Eutectic Material will melt and break the fuse element. This
is the purpose of providing Eutectic Material in the HRC Fuse.I have given the picture
of HRC fuse as show in figure
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Chapter: 5
Conclusion
58
5.1 Recommendation
The recommendation are as follows-
The space of powermann all section is comparatively less.
A lot of people work in small space with less space, so accidents are
more likely happen.
There are less educated and experienced people in the switchgear
section.
5.2 Conclusion
I have been closely monitoring the switchgear related all equipments during
this time of internship. I have noticed how these work and how they are
maintained. I have also noticed the working and maintenance of the PFI
Planel. Finally, I would like to say this report is very helpful for installation
of switchgear equipment. I am really very thankful to my department to give
such an opportunity to learn these things practically.
Reference
[1]. IEEE Std C37.20.2-1999. IEEE Standard for Metal-Clad Switchgear.
[4]. Mooz, Dietrich, and Rolf Dirks. "High voltage, high rupture capacity fuse."
U.SPatent No. 4,617,544. 14 Oct. 1986.
[5]. http://arelectropower.com/what-is-switchgear-features-components-classification/
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Delhi: Nirja Construction & Development.
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q=ht+panel+components&rlz=1C1CHBD_enBD877BD877&oq=ht+p&aqs=chrome.
2.69i59j69i57j69i59l2j0j69i60l3.14700j0j7&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8
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[10]. Bhag S. Guru, Huseyin R. Hizigorlu, Electric Machinery & Transformers (3rd
[11]. https://www.elprocus.com/vacuum-circuit-breaker-working-applications/
[12]. R.L Boylestad, , Introductory Circuit Analysis 11th edition, Pearson Education
[13].https://www.google.com/search?
q=pfi+power+factor+improvement&rlz=1C1CHBD_enBD877BD877&oq=pfi&aqs=
chrome.1.69i57j69i59j35i39j0l2j69i61j69i60l2.6104j0j7&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF
-8
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