Imp Terra e Tubazioni

Water Industry Technical Standards
Specification No: 95-098.1
Design of compatible
electrical earthing
installations
Water Industry Technical Standards

P 0 Box 422, Mitcham 3132
Telephone (03) 9872-1145 Facsimile (03) 9872-1150
The Water Industry Technical Standards Unit provides co-ordinated Technical Standards for City West Water Limited
ACN 066 902 467, South East Water Limited ACN 066 902 547 and Yarra Valley Water Limited. ACN 066 902 501
Copyright Yana Valley Water Ltd. ® 1995
Copyright South East Water Ltd. ® 1995
Copyright City West Water Ltd. ® 1995
All rights reserved.
This publication is protected by copyright and is provided under licence.
No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, stored in a retrieval system,
or reduced to any electronic medium without the written authority of the General Manager of one of
the above Water Companies.
The Water Company assumes no responsibility for any errors that may appear in this document or
any damages arising out of the use or inability to use this document.
Changes maybe made periodically to the information herein.
May 1995
DESIGN OF COMPATIBLE ELECTRICAL EARTHING
INSTALLATIONS
PART I - SUPPORT SERVICES AND SECTION RESPONSIBILITIES
SYNOPSIS
This publication is part of a two-part publication which sets out the principles and procedures by
which the electrical earthing systems associated with Board structures are to be designed, thus
ensuring personnel safety during construction and operation and compatibility between the various
systems.
This Part I sets out the responsibilities of the design, construction and maintenance sections for the
safe and effective design and operation of the systems and the support services available to assist
them.
Part II describes the detailed procedures and practices to be followed by the design, construction
and maintenance personnel.
INSTRUCTIONS FOR THE USE OF:
Design group personnel concerned with any Water Supply, Sewerage or Drainage structures, which
involve any electrical, electronic, anti-corrosion or process control systems. It also serves to inform
Construction or Maintenance engineering personnel of the reason for specific design procedures so
that the requirements will not be inadvertently voided by field actions.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page No.
PREAMBLE
1 SCOPE OF PUBLICATION 4
1.1 EXTENT 5
1.2 APPLICATION 5
1.3 PURPOSE 5
2 RELATED PUBLICATIONS 5
3 DEFINITIONS 6
4 PIPELINES PARALLEL TO ELECTRICITY TRANSMISSION LINES 7
4.1 DESIGN 7
4.2 CONSTRUCTION AND MAINTENANCE 8
5 LIGHTNING PROTECTION 8
5.1 DESIGN 8
5.2 CONSTRUCTION AND OPERATION 8
6 ELECTRICAL SERVICES IN A COMMON TRENCH 8
7 ELECTRONIC/PROCESS CONTROL EQUIPMENT 9
7.1 DESIGN 9

Page No.
8 CATHODIC PROTECTION 9
8.1 DESIGN 9
9 SPECIAL EQUIPMENT 9
9.1 DESIGN 9
10 DC POWER SUPPLIES 10
APPENDIX 1 - SCHEMATIC LAYOUT OF TYPICAL INSTALLATIONS 11

PREAMBLE
A variety of electrical earthing systems are incorporated in Board structures - some to ensure
personnel safety from such things as high voltage fault currents or lightning, and others for the
proper operation of the structure.
It is essential that the requirements for these earthing systems are included at the initial design stage
of the project, and that the systems are designed to be compatible with each other; i.e., operate
without mutual interference.
This manual has been divided into two parts:
Part I, which is a general instruction to all Board personnel regarding their responsibilities for
the safe and effective design, construction and operation of these systems and the
technical support services available to assist them;
Part II, which describes the detailed procedures and practices to be followed by the designers,
and in certain instances by construction and maintenance staff, to ensure compatibility
and safety of the operational systems.
Both parts are divided into the following sections, for ease of use:
4 Pipelines Parallel to Electricity Transmission Lines

5 Lightning Protection
6 Electrical Services in a Common Trench
7 Electronic/Process Control Equipment
8 Cathodic Protection
9 Special Equipment
10 DC Power Supplies
1 SCOPE OF PUBLICATION
1.1 EXTENT
This publication sets out the general responsibilities of design, construction and maintenance
sections and the technical support services available to assist them in the safe and effective design
and use of electrical earthing systems on Board projects.
1.2 APPLICATION
The procedures, practices and safety precautions set out in this manual shall be mandatory for all
personnel involved in the design, construction and maintenance of any Board structure involving
electrical, electronic, anti-corrosion or process control earthing systems.
1.3 PURPOSE
The purpose of this publication is to ensure that the basic requirements for a11 electrical
installations in Board structures are included at the initial design stage of a project.
Design group personnel concerned with Water Supply, Sewerage and Drainage structures are to
advise specialist design, installation and operational groups at the initial concept stage so that the
basic system requirements are included in the preliminary design.
2 RELATED PUBLICATIONS
The following publications are related to the content of this manual:
MMBW Safety in Construction Work Near Overhead Power Lines.

Engineering Manual No. E-1S-1G-06, Melbourne and Metropolitan Board of Works,
Melbourne, 1980.
AIEE Committee Voltage Gradients Through the Ground Under Fault

conditions AIEE Transaction, October, 1958.
AS 3000, Part 1-1976 Wiring Methods (SAA Wiring Rules).
AS 1768 - 1975 Manual on Lightning Protection.
AGA Mutual Design Consideration for Overhead AC Transmission Lines

and Gas Transmission Lines AGA Cat. NO. L51278 Project PR 132-80, September,
1978.
3 DEFINITIONS
The terms used in this publication are defined as follows:
Cathodic Protection' - the protective system in which a direct current is applied to a structure
through the soil/water in order to 'swamp' all local corrosion cells on that structure. The
current is introduced to the soil/water through the anodes.
'Common Trench' - a trench which is used to accommodate two or more different services.
'Conductor' - the current carrying wire in an electric circuit. 'Hard Wired Equipment' - equipment
where the data aquisition unit is connected to the read-out or processing unit by direct
metallic conductors.
'Insulated Flange' - a conventional pipe joining flange which has been fitted with insulated bolts to
provide electrical isolation between the two sections.
'Insulated Joint' - a pipe fitting which provides electrical isolation between its two ends. It is
normally supplied for direct insertion into a pipeline.
Lightning Discharge (or Flash)' - an electrical discharge into the atmosphere which usually occurs
between electrically charged zones in the cumulo-nimbus cloud or between one of the
zones and earth.
Lightning Protection System' - the whole system of conductors used to protect an object from the
effects of lightning.
Overhead Electricity Transmission Line' - a system of one or more conductors, supported on poles
or towers, which convey electricity from one point to another.
'Pipeline' - a metallic pipe which conveys water or sewerage and is electrically continuous over its
entire length.
Private Telephone Line' - means an exclusive, privately leased, point-to-point telephone circuit
connecting two or more locations, but not connected to the switched telephone network.
'Step Potential' - the potential difference existing on the ground surface over the distance of one step
i.e., approximately 750 mm. This arises when a high current is discharged to ground from
an electrical fault or lightning strike.
Surge Diverter' - a protective device, usually connected between any conductor of a system and
earth, which limits surge voltages by diverting surge current to earth when a given
voltage is exceeded.
Switched Telephone Network" - the TCA telephone system, over which subscribers may call each
other either automatically or with operator assistance.
'TCA' - Australian Telecommunications Commission (known as Telecom Australia).
'Telecommunication' - the transmission of speech, analogue and digital information, excluding

telemetry information within an installation. The transfer of telemetry information
between installations usually occurs using telecommunication circuits.
'Telemetry' - the information transmission system in which the indication of a measured quantity is
given at a location which is remote from the point of measurement. This presently
includes alarm and operating information and telecontrol of plant.
'Voltage' - the potential difference existing between the conductors of an overhead transmission
line.
• 'Medium Voltage' - up to 650V
• 'High Voltage' - between 650V and 66,000V (66 kV)
• 'Extra High Voltage' - above 66 kV
4 PIPELINES PARALLEL TO ELECTRICITY TRANSMISSION LINES
NOTE: Cast iron or ductile iron mains using rubber ring type joints are excluded from the
following procedures because of their electrical discontinuity.
4.1 DESIGN
In the design of each mild steel welded pipeline, the Design Engineer shall consider the route plan
and its proximity to high or extra high voltage electricity transmission lines. If the proposed route
crosses or comes within 1 km of such transmission lines, he shall follow the design principles and
practices set out in Part 2, section 4 of this manual. The appropriate safety requirements shall be
specified on the drawings.
The Electrical Engineer, Maintenance and Construction, Mechanical and Electrical Division, shall
provide supportive information as requ1 red.
4.2 CONSTRUCTION AND MAINTENANCE
During construction of the pipeline, the Construction Engineer shall order the materials required for
the safety items specified and control their delivery and installation. The Electrolysis Section
Installation Gang is available to install earth beds on request, preferably with five days notice.
After construction, a detailed location plan of each earth bed shall be forwarded to the Electrolysis
Section. The Electrolysis Section shall record it in the 'ES-A...' series of drawings and obtain the
necessary permits from the Chief Electrical Inspector, as required by the Cathodic Protection
Regulations.
The Electrolysis Section shall monitor all earthing beds to ensure their continuing effectiveness and
initiate replacement programs when required.
5 LIGHTNING PROTECTION
5.1 DESIGN
The Design Engineer for the project shall consider each above ground structure exceeding 6 metres
in height and assess the lightning risk using the method described in AS 1768-1975 "Manual on
Lightning Protection', section 3.4. The protective measures described in AS 1768 and in Part 2,
section 5 of this manual shall be included on the structure drawings.
Supportive information or details are available from the Engineer for Mechanical and Electrical
Design, Water Supply Division.
5.2 CONSTRUCTION AND OPERATION
The Construction Engineer and later, the Maintenance Engineer, shall utilise the information
contained in AS 1768 and Part 2 of this manual when working on any pipeline.
6 ELECTRICAL SERVICES IN A COMMON TRENCH
The Design Engineer for the project shall follow the principles and practices set out in Part 2,
section 6 of this manual in order to minimise interference between services located within a
common trench.
7 ELECTRONIC/PROCESS CONTROL EQUIPMENT
7.1 DESIGN
The Design Engineer for the project shall ensure that the specialist designers for these systems use
the procedures laid down in Part 2, section 7 of this manual.
Supportive information is available from the Electrical Engineer, Construction and Maintenance,
Mechanical and Electrical Division.
Installation and Maintenance personnel should be aware of the design requirements and the reasons
for them so that any procedures they employ do not contravene those requirements.
8 CATHODIC PROTECTION
NOTE: Cast iron or ductile iron pipes using rubber ring joints are not suitable for cathodic
protection and are protected against corrosion as described in MMBW Specification No.
80-A-165 'Protection of Cast Iron Water Mains from Corrosion'.
8.1 DESIGN
The Design Engineer for each mild steel underground structure shall follow the procedures set out
in Part 2, section 8 of this manual, and shall consult the Electrolysis Engineer, Mechanical and
Electrical Division for supportive information. He shall ensure that designs for other electrical
systems associated with the project follow the procedures laid down in the other sections of this
manual.
Construction and Maintenance Engineer shall ensure that the design intention is understood and
maintained by site personnel.
9 SPECIAL EQUIPMENT
9.1 DESIGN
The Design Engineer responsible for any project which utilises specialised equipment (such as
magnetic flowmeters or dam wall instrumentation) shall ensure that the principles and practices laid
down in Part 2, section 9 of this manual are followed.
If other electrical items which have unusual specific electrical/ earthing requirements are to be introduced on
a project, the Design Engineer shall ensure that all the supportive sections named in this manual are
informed, in detail. Those sections shall consider the effects of the requirements and report back to the
Design Engineer within a nominated time.
The Construction and Maintenance Engineers shall ensure that their personnel are aware of the
principles and practices laid down in Part 2, section 9 of this manual, and maintain them.
10 DC POWER SUPPLIES
The Design Engineer for the project shall ensure that the individual specialist design engineers have
followed the procedures and practices set out in Part 2, section 10 of this manual.
DESIGN OF COMPATIBLE ELECTRICAL EARTHING
INSTALLATIONS
PART II - PROCEDURES AND PRACTICES
SYNOPSIS
This publication is part of a two-part publication which sets out the principles and procedures by
which the electrical earthing systems associated with Board structures are to be designed, thus
ensuring personnel safety during construction and operation and compatibility between the various
systems.
Part I sets out the responsibilities of design, construction and maintenance staff for the safe
and effective design and operation of the systems and the support services available to
assist them.
This Part II sets out the procedures and practices to be followed by the specialist design
sections, and in certain instances, by construction and maintenance personnel, to ensure
compatible and safe earthing systems.
INSTRUCTIONS FOR THE USE OF:
Design group personnel concerned with any Water Supply, Sewerage or Drainage structures which
involve any electrical, electronic, anti-corrosion or process control systems. It also informs
construction and maintenance personnel of the reason for specific design procedures so that the
requirements will not be inadvertently voided by field actions.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page No.
PREAMBLE
1 SCOPE OF PUBLICATION 7
1.1 EXTENT 8
1.2 APPLICATION 8
1.3 PURPOSE 8
2 RELATED PUBLICATIONS 8
3 DEFINITIONS 9
4 PIPELINES PARALLEL TO ELECTRICITY TRANSMISSION LINES 12
4.1 THE NATURE OF THE HAZARD 12

4.1.1 Contact with Conductor 12
4.1.2 Power System Faults 12
4.1.3 Capacitive Coupling (Electrostatic Induction) 12
4.1.4 Electro-Magnetic Induction 12
4.2 PROCEDURES TO BE FOLLOWED 13

4.2.1 Awareness 13
4.2.2 Work Near Any Overhead Transmission Line 14
4.2.3 Work Near a High Voltage Transmission Line 14
(650V - 66 kV)
4.2.4 Work Near Extra High Voltage Transmission Lines 15
(over 66 kV)
Page No.
5 LIGHTNING PROTECTION 20
5.1 EFFECTS OF LIGHTNING 20
5.2 PRINCIPLES OF PROTECTION 21

5.3.1 Protection of Buildings and Structures 21
5.3.2 Protection of Control Equipment 22
5.3.3 Electrical Storm 22
6 ELECTRICAL SERVICES IN A COMMON TRENCH 23
6.1 NEED FOR SHARING TRENCHES 23
6.2 SERVICES THAT CAN BE INSTALLED IN A COMMON TRENCH 23
6.3 WORK CO-ORDINATION AND RESPONSIBILITIES 24
6.4 STANDARDS 24
6.4.1 Underground Wiring 24
6.4.2 Types of Underground Systems 24
6.4.3 Depth of Laying and Protection of Underground 25
Wiring Systems
6.5 PROCEDURE FOR LAYING OF CABLES 27
6.6 PROCEDURE FOR INSTALLATION OF SIGNAL PITS AND CONDUITS 27

6.6.1 Pit Installation 27
6.6.2 Conduit Installation 27
6.7 SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS 28
7 ELECTRONIC/PROCESS CONTROL EQUIPMENT 31
7.1 HARDWIRED EQUIPMENT 31

7.1.1 Nature of the Hazard 31
7.1.2 Telecommunications 31
7.1.3 Telemetry 31
7.1.4 Analogue Signals 31
7.1.5 Digital Signals 31
7.1.6 Installation 32
7.1.7 Voltage Levels 32
Page No.
7.2 TELECOMMUNICATION FACILITIES 32

7.2.1 Safety - General
7.2.2 TCA Telecommunication Cables Within Buildings 32
7.2.3 Attachment of Equipment to Telecommunication 34
Cables
7.2.4 Earthing 35
7.2.5 Lightning and Excess Voltage Protection 35
7.2.6 Procedure to be Followed 35
7.3 TELEMETRY FACILITIES 36

7.3 1 Telemetry Communication Bearers 36
7.3 2 Telemetry Interface Equipment – Annunicators 38
7.3 3 Data Input and Output Requirements 38
7.3 4 DC Power Supplies 38
7.3 5 Procedures to be Followed 39
8 CATHODIC PROTECTION 45
8.1 METHODS OF SEPARATION 45

8.1.1 Insulation Between the Protection Pipe and the 45
Earthed Fitting
8.1.2 Power Earth Isolation and Non-Copper Local Earth 46
8.1.3 Anode Field Effect 47

8.2.1 General 48
8.2.2 New Steel Pipelines 48
8.2.3 New Buried Fuel Tanks 49
8.2.4 Modification of Existing Pipelines 49
9 SPECIAL EQUIPMENT EARTHING OF INSTRUMENTATION SYSTEMS 54
9.2 MAGNETIC FLOW METERS 54

9.2.1 Earthing of Magnetic Flow Metering Systems 54
9.2.2 Installation Requirements for Magnetic Flow Meters 54
9.3 INSTRUMENTATION IN EARTH AND ROCK FILLED DAMS 55

9.3.1 Installation Requirements 55
9.3.2 Recommendation 57
Page No.
10 DC POWER SUPPLIES 57
10.1 DC POWER SUPPLY ARRANGEMENTS 57
10.2 POWER SUPPLY INSTALLATIONS 58

10.2.1 Telecommunications 58
10.2.2 Telemetry 58
10.2.3 Power and Control Systems 58
10.2.4 Instrumentation 58
10.3 DC POWER SUPPLY REQUIREMENTS 59
10.4 SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR UNEARTHED SYSTEMS 59
10.5 DISCUSSION 59
10.6 RECOMMENDATION 60
FIGURE 4.1 4 ZINC ANODE GROUNDING CELL 17
FIGURE 4.2 EARTHING PROTECTION FOR WATER MAIN FITTINGS 18
FIGURE 4.3 EARTHING BED 19
FIGURE 6.1 SHARING OF TRENCHES - TYPICAL ARRANGEMENTS 29

OF SERVICES
FIGURE 6.2 CONDUIT SLOPE REQUIREMENTS 30
FIGURE 7.1 GROUPED ALARM INPUT 41
FIGURE 7.2 DIGITAL OUTPUTS CIRCUITRY 42
FIGURE 7.3 ANALOGUE INPUTS CIRCUITRY 43
FIGURE 7.4 ANALOGUE OUTPUTS CIRCUITRY 44
FIGURE 8.1 INSERTION OF INSULATING FLANGES OR JOINTS 46
FIGURE 8.2 ISOLATING TRANSFORMER INSTALLATIONS 47
FIGURE 8.3 ANODE FIELD PROTECTION 48
FIGURE 8.4 FLANGED IN-LINE INSULATED JOINTS 51
FIGURE 8.5 INTEGRAL INSULATED JOINTS 52

Page No.
FIGURE 8.6 INSULATED FLANGED JOINTS 53
FIGURE 9.1 CENTRAL EARTH SYSTEM 55
FIGURE 9.2 FIELD EARTH SYSTEM 56
TABLE 6.1 UNDERGROUND WIRING SYSTEMS 25
TABLE 6.2 MINIMUM DEPTH OF LAYING AND PROTECTION 26

OF UNDERGROUND WIRING
APPENDIX 1 SCHEMATIC LAYOUT OF TYPICAL INSTALLATIONS 61

PREAMBLE
A variety of electrical earthing systems are incorporated in Board structures - some to ensure
personnel safety from such things as high voltage fault currents or lightning, and others for the
proper operation of the structure.
It is essential that the requirements for these earthing systems are included at the initial design stage
of the project, and that the systems are designed to be compatible with each other; i.e., operate
without mutual interference.
This manual has been divided into two parts:
Part I, which is a general instruction to all Board personnel regarding their responsibilities
for the safe and effective design, construction and operation of these systems and the
technical support services available to assist them;
Part II, which describes the detailed procedures and practices to be followed by the
designers, and in certain instances by construction and maintenance staff, to ensure
compatibility and safety of the operational systems.
Both parts are divided into the following sections, for ease of use:
4 Pipelines Parallel to Electricity Transmission Lines

5 Lightning Protection
6 Electrical Services in a Common Trench
7 Electronic/Process Control Equipment
8 Cathodic Protection
9 Special Equipment
10 DC Power Supplies
1 SCOPE OF PUBLICATION
1.1 EXTENT
This publication describes the procedures and practices to be followed by the designer, and in
certain instances, by construction and maintenance personnel, to ensure compatible and safe
earthing systems.
1.2 APPLICATION
The various design and installation procedures, practices, methods and safety precautions set out in
this manual shall be mandatory for all Board personnel involved in the design, construction and
maintenance of any Board structure involving electrical, electronic, anti-corrosion or process
control earthing systems.
1.3 PURPOSE
The purpose of this publication is to establish safe and consistent design procedures, and, where
appropriate, construction and maintenance procedures, to protect personnel and equipment from the
electrical and corrosion hazards which may arise in a complex installation.
The publication also establishes the source of supportive advisory services for the areas outlined Tn
the preamble of this manual.
2 RELATED PUBLICATIONS
The following publications are related to the content of this manual:
MMBW Safety in Construction Work Near Overhead Power Lines. Engineering Manual No. E-1S-
1G-06, Melbourne and Metropolitan Board of Works, Melbourne, 1980.
AIEE Committee Voltage Gradients Through the Ground Under Fault Conditions. AIEE
Transaction, October, 1958.
AS 3000, Part 1-1976 Wiring Methods (SAA Wiring Rules).
AS 1768 - 1975 Manual on Lightning Protection.
AGA Mutual Design Consideration for Overhead AC Transmission Lines and Gas Transmission
Lines AGA Cat. NO. L51278. Project PR 132-80, September, 1978.
3 DEFINITIONS
The terms used in this publication are defined as follows:
ANODE (or GROUND BED) - the electrode which passes current into the soil in a cathodic
protection system. It may be magnesium or zinc for a galvanic system or cast iron for a
powered system.
CABLE JOINT ENCLOSURE - an enclosure accommodating joints on underground cables.
CABLE JOINTING PITS - pre-fabricated asbestos cement or concrete pits not normally exceeding
750 mm long by 300 mm wide by 600 mm deep, with surface entry, to accommodate
joints and pipe entries.
CATHODIC PROTECTION - the protective system which applies a direct current through the
soil/water to a structure in order to 'swamp' all local corrosion cells on that structure. The
current is introduced to the soil/water through the anodes.
COMMON TRENCH - a trench which is used to accommodate any two or more different
underground services.
CONDUCTOR - means the current carrying wire in an electrical circuit.
DISTRIBUTION AND LEAD-IN PIPES - pipes of rigid PVC, asbestos cement or galvanised steel
not exceeding 100 mm nominal diameter, surrounding and protecting underground
services.
EARTH BED - a group of zinc anodes laid in the ground to provide a very low resistance
connection from an insulated or coated pipeline to the earth mass. Drg. No. ES-10-15
(.Fig. 4.3) shows a suitable arrangement.
EARTHING RESISTANCE - the resistance of the earthing electrode system to the general mass of
earth, as measured from a test point.
EXTRA LOW VOLTAGE CONTROL CABLES - cables which provide control signals at voltages
not exceeding 32 Vac or 115 Vdc.
FOOTWAY - any part of a street reserve, any part of a public reserve or any private land secured by
easement by either the power authority or the Board, other than the carriageway portion
of such land.
GROUNDING CELL - a device connected across an insulating joint in a pipeline in order to restrict
the potential difference across the joint under electrical fault conditions. Drg. No. ES-10-
16 (Fig. 4.1) shows one suitable arrangement.
HARD WIRED EQUIPMENT - equipment where the data acquisition unit is directly connected to
the read-out or processing unit by metallic conductors.
HIGH VOLTAGE CABLE - a power cable used for a nominal voltage exceeding 650V.
INSULATED FLANGE - a conventional pipe joining flange which has been fitted with insulated
bolts to provide electrical isolation between the two sections. Refer W.S. Drawings No.
S24/107A, Fig. 8.6 of this manual.
INSULATED JOINT - a pipe fitting which provides electrical isolation between its two ends. It is
normally supplied for direct insertion into a pipeline. Refer to Drawing No. W.S.
S24/133, Fig. 8.4 and WS S24/134, Fig. 8.5 of this manual.
LIGHTNING DISCHARGE (or FLASH) - an electrical discharge in the atmosphere usually

occurring between electrically charged zones in the cumulo-nimbus cloud or between one
of those zones and earth.
LIGHTNING PROTECTION SYSTEM - the whole system of conductors used to protect an object
from the effects of lightning.
LOCAL EARTH - an electrical system earth connection intended to protect a relatively small area
in its vicinity.
LOW VOLTAGE CABLE - a power cable used for nominal voltage from 32V to 250V.
MARKER TAPE - a bright coloured durable plastic tape placed above power cables to indicate
their presence.
MEDIUM VOLTAGE CABLE - a power cable used for a nominal voltage from 250V to 650V.
OVERHEAD ELECTRICITY TRANSMISSION LINE - a system of one or more conductors.

supported on poles or towers, which convey electricity from one point to another.
PIPELINE - means a metallic pipe for the conveying of water or sewerage liquids and which is
electrically continuous over its entire length.
PRIVATE TELEPHONE LINE - an exclusive, privately leased, point-to-point circuit connecting

two or more locations but not connected to the switched telephone network.
PROTECTIVE COVERING - covering, which may be of concrete slabs, bricks or tiles etc., or
protective pipe of strong permanent material, placed over power cables to provide
mechanical protection.
ROADWAY - that part of a street reserve intended for the passage of vehicular traffic but not
including driveways crossing the footway.
SAFETY EARTH MESH - a conducting mat or mesh, electrically connected to a pipe fitting, of
such a size that an operator at the fitting must stand on the mat when operating or
maintaining the fitting. Drg. No. ES-10-10 (Fig. 4.2) shows a suitable arrangement.
SERVICE PILLAR - an above ground joint enclosure in which low voltage lead-in cables may be
connected to low voltage supply main cables and in which service fuses may be located.
SERVICE PIT - a below ground joint enclosure having surface entry in which low voltage lead-in
calbes may be connected to low voltage supply main cables and in which service fuses
may be located.
STEP POTENTIAL - the potential difference existing on the ground surface over the -distance of
one step i.e., approximately 750 mm. This arises when a high current is discharged to the
ground from an electrical fault or lightning strike.
SURGE DIVERTER - a protective device usually connected between any conductor of a system
and earth, which limits surge voltages by diverting surge current to earth when a given
voltage is exceeded.
SWITCHED TELEPHONE NETWORK - the TCA telephone system over wntch any subscriber
may call any other subscriber, either automatically or with operator assistance.
TCA - Australian Telecommunications Commission (known as Telecom Australia).
TELECOMMUNICATION - the transmission of speech, analogue and digital information, but

normally excluding telemetry information within an installation. The transmission of
telemetry information between installations normally occurs using telecommunication
circuits.
TELECOMMUNICATION CABLES - multi-pair telecommunication cables.
TELEMETRY - the information transmission system whereby the indication of a measured quantity
is given at a location remote from the point of measurement. The present context now
includes alarm and operating information and the telecontrol of plant.
VOLTAGE - the difference of potential normally existing between the conductors of an overhead
transmission line.
• Medium voltage - up to 650V
• High voltage - above 650V and up to 66,000V (66 kV)
• Extra high voltage - above 66 kV

4 PIPELINES PARALLEL TO ELECTRICITY TRANSMISSION LINES
4.1 THE NATURE OF THE HAZARD
When a pipeline is laid parallel to an overhead electricity transmission line, a hazardous voltage can
occur between the pipeline and the adjacent ground in several ways. The degree of hazard increases
as the voltage increases. The following sections 4.1.1 to 4.1.4 describe the potential hazard
situations which may arise during construction or maintenance works.
4.1.1 Contact with Conductor. Direct contact with a conductor of a transmission line is most
likely to involve machinery such as cranes, back-hoes, etc., and appropriate safety procedures are
specified in Engineering Manual No. 1S-1G-06, safety in Construction work Near Overhead power
Lines. Note that it is not necessary to physically touch a high voltage conductor - the current can
spark across an air gap when a machine boom approaches a conductor.
This hazard is relevant to transmission lines operating at any voltage.
4.1.2 Power System Faults. A 'flash-over' to a support tower from the transmission line or a
lightning strike on a tower may create very high current flow in the ground about the tower base.
The current flow raises the potential of the ground to a very high value, and the resultant high
potential gradients may give rise to dangerous 'step potentials'. These potential changes are a
significant hazard for personnel near High and Extra High Voltage Lines.
4.1.3 Capacitive Coupling (Electrostatic Induction). An operating transmission line is

surrounded by an electrostatic field. This can induce a potential onto insulated metal objects within
the field such as pipes on sandbags, vehicles on rubber tyres etc.
The voltages which may exist can be considerable but are usually of low power. They will rarely
cause death, but can be hazardous by causing involuntary muscular contraction.
4.1.4 Electro-Magnetic Induction. A high voltage line carrying current is also surrounded by
an electro-magnetic field which fluctuates at 100 cycles per second.
A metallic pipe within this field acts as a conductor and a voltage can be induced in the pipe. Under
normal conditions in the power system, this voltage is usually below 50V where the pipe is not
earthed.
However, under fault conditions very high currents can flow in the overhead conductors and induce
very high voltages in the pipe -perhaps up to 5000 volts per kilometre of pipe.
When the pipe potential rises to such values, the pipe coating may be damaged and insulating joints
punctured and rendered ineffective.
The magnitude of the voltages depends on:
(a) the length of the pipeline;
(b) the distance between pipe and conductor;
(c) the resistance of the pipe coating;
(d) the presence or absence of an earth conductor on the power line, and
(e) the presence or absence of an earthing bed connected to the pipeline.
A high potential difference will exist between pipe fittings, e.g., valves and the adjoining ground,
placing operating/maintenance personnel at risk.
Suitable methods of protection are:
• connection of the pipeline to earthing beds
• fitting of grounding cells across insulating flanges
• fitting a safety earth mesh around valves and fittings.
The safety earth mesh is intended to prevent potential differences from existing between an
operator's hands and feet and must be:
• connected to the fitting and not the pipe
• large enough to ensure that the operator cannot operate the fitting when standing off the
mat.
4.2 PROCEDURES TO BE FOLLOWED
4 2.1 Awareness. Board supervisors shall ensure that any person associated with the Board's
construction or maintenance works near overhead transmission lines is aware of the hazards
described above Before any works are undertaken within 100 m of a transmission line ' easement,
the person in charge of the works is to consider the hazards involved and ensure that all necessary
precautions have been taken.
The precautionary procedures set out in sections 4.2.2 to 4.2.5 are mandatory for the person in
charge of the works. He shall ensure that they are strictly followed, in the listed sequence, by all
Board and/or contractors staff.
The individual precautions listed below offer protection against one or more of the hazardous
conditions: the sequence indicated reflects the need for stricter precautions as line voltages increase.
4.2.2 Work Near Any Overhead Transmission Line. Working procedures for machinery used
in construction or maintenance of a pipeline located near overhead power lines shall comply with
the requirements of Engineering Manual NO. E-1S-1G-06 Safety In Construction Work Near
Overhead Power Lines.
Rubber tyred vehicles shall be fitted with conductive tyres OR^ a drag chain in adequate contact
with the ground, in order to discharge any build-up of potential.
4.2.3 Work Near a High Voltage Transmission Line (650V - 66 kV). In addi ti on to the
requirements of section 4.2.2 being applied, the fol1owi ng work shall be done:
(a) Insulating Joints Protection. Where a transmission line runs parallel to a pipeline,
insulating joints or flanges in the run of the pipeline should be avoided. Where these
joints or flanges are needed, they shall be fitted with a grounding cell, as shown on
Drawing No. ES-10-16 (Fig. 4.1).
Insulating flanges between the main pipe and fittings e.g., hydrants or scours, shall not be
fitted with a grounding cell.
(b) Earth Safety Mesh. An earth safety mesh similar to that shown on Drawing No. ES-10-
10 (Fig. 4.2) shall be fitted to all ground level or above ground fittings on the pipeline:
• where a transmission line runs parallel.
• within a transmission line easement being crossed by the pipeline.
• within 1 km of a Pump Station or other powered equipment connected to the pipeline,

which is supplied with a.c. power at High Voltage or Extra High Voltage.
NOTE: The mesh is connected directly to the fitting which the operator will touch, and not
necessarily to the pipe below. The mesh is intended to ensure that the surface the
operator stands on remains at the same potential as the pipe fitting, thus preventing
voltage differences between his hands and feet.
(c) Pipe Location. A pipeline shall never be laid under an electricity substation earthing
grid, and the maximum practical separation shall be maintained between the pipeline and
any electrical earthing systems.
This restriction also applies to sewerage and drainage pipelines because of the possibility
of a fault occurring during maintenance work on the pipeline e.g., while rodding to clear
a blockage.
4.2.4 Work Near Extra High Voltage Transmission Lines (over 66 kV). The procedures as set
out in sections 4.2.2 and 4.2.3 of this manual shall be observed. In addition, the following work is
required:
(a) Earthing Beds. Earthing beds, as shown on Drawing No. ES-10-15 (Fig. 4.3) shall be
installed where:
(i) the pipeline runs parallel to and within 1 km of an extra high voltage transmission line:
• at intervals of 1.5 km ; or . at each end of the pipeline, if shorter than 1.5 km.
(ii) the pipeline route diverges from the transmission line route:
• approximately 1 km from the point of divergence.
Earthing beds shall be installed prior to the pipeline construction works, so that the connection
to the pipeline can be made immediately pipe laying reaches the earthing bed. This
requirement shall be clearly stated on the drawings.
(b) Pipe Laying. The following procedures shall apply during pipe laying operations:
(i) Pipe laying shall start at an earthing bed where the pipe commences in a transmission
line easement.
(ii) Pipe laying in the vicinity of the transmission lines should be continuous, leaving no
gaps (high potentials can arise across such a gap). Where a pipe fitting is not
immediately available and a gap is unavoidable, the gap shall be bridged electrically,
using welding clamps and cable, until the pipeline closure is made.
(iii) Isolated sections of pipe shall be earthed by a driven stake, flexible cable and clamp
with insulated hand grips, as follows:
• at one end where the length of the section is between 100 m and 300 m, or
• at each end where the length of the section exceeds 300 m.
Sections of main required to be assembled above ground shall be similarly earthed

and should be limited to 100 m in length.
References for detailed calculations for specific sites:
• IH Research Institute Chicago, Illinois. Mutual Design Considerations for Overhead

Transmission Lines and Gas Transmission Lines AGA Cat. No. L51278, September
1978.
• J Pabkowski Calculations and Mitigation of Induced Voltages on Buried pipelines. Paper

64, NACE Corrosion 80.
5 LIGHTNING PROTECTION
The recommendations contained in this section are based on AS 1768-1975 Manual on Lightning
Protection.
• The risk of lightning strikes to structures such as pumping stations less than 6 metres
high, is small or negligible and no lightning protection is required.
• For pumping stations higher than 6 metres and for office buildings, stores, maintenance
buildings etc, the risk shall be assessed as described in AS 1768, section 3.4, and
lightning protection provided where required.
• Section 5.3.2 of this manual lists recommendations for the protection of control
equipment from lightning induced over-voltages on control lines.
• Section 5.3.3 of this manual sets out recommendations for the safety of personnel during
the construction of structures and pipelines.
5.1 EFFECTS OF LIGHTNING
The principal effects of a lightning discharge to an object are electrical, thermal and mechanical.
These effects are determined by the currents which are discharged into the object. The currents are
assumed to be non-directional and may vary in amplitude from a few hundred amperes to a
maximum of about 200 kA with a statistical average of 20 kA.
The current in any lightning discharge rises to its crest value in several microseconds, but falls to
zero in several tens to hundreds of microseconds. Many lightning discharges consist of a single
strike but others involve a sequence of strikes which follow somewhat the same path and which
discharge separate currents of the amplitudes and waveshapes mentioned. The sequence of strikes
may be spread over a period of a second or even longer. As this current is discharged through the
lightning protective system, it produces a voltage drop. This may momentarily raise the potential of
the protective system to a high value relative to the general mass of the earth and may also produce
a high potential gradient around the earthing electrode which can be dangerous to persons and to
livestock.
Although the amplitude of a lightning current may be high, its duration is so short that the thermal
effect on a lightning protective system, or the metallic parts of a structure is usually negligible.
Fusing or welding effects may occur locally, because of the rupture of a conductor which was
previously damaged or of inadequate cross-section. In practice, the cross-section of a lightning
conductor is determined primarily from mechanical considerations.
When a lightning flash is about to take place to earth, the surface of the surrounding ground for a
radius of several kilometres carries an electric charge. As the flash takes place, this surface charge
moves radially towards the ground end of the air path, forming an electric current in the ground. At
the point where the discharge enters the ground, the current density becomes high, and damage may
result if the flow takes place through the foundation wall of a building.
Earth connections should be distributed symmetrically preferably outside and around the
circumference of a structure, rather than on one side. With earth connections properly distributed,
the current will be collected at the outer extremities, and the flow underneath the building
minimised.
5.2 PRINCIPLES OF PROTECTION
The purpose of lightning protection is to protect a building or other object in case a lightning strike
occurs; no form of protection can prevent the occurrence of a lightning discharge.
Lightning discharges tend to travel in those metal parts of structures which extend in the general
direction of the discharge. Hence, if adequately earthed metal parts of proper proportions and
distribution are provided, damage to the structure can be largely prevented.
Tall metal structures provide an adequate conducting path but care must be taken to ensure that
there is a satisfactory earth connection close to ground level.
5.3.1 Protection of Buildings and Structures. During the design of a "ew building or structure,
consideration should be given to the lightning protection system. The risk shall be assessed as
described in AS 1768-1975, section 3.4 and appropriate protection provided.
In general, the whole of an interconnected lightning protection system should have a resistance to
earth of not more than 10 ohms.
Copper, copper-clad steel and stainless steel shall not be used in contact with the ground because of
the corrosion cell formed with other buried steel structures. Galvanised steel shall be used for earth
electrodes etc, in contact with the ground, with appropriate cathodic protection.
Typical Board's installations which generally require lightning protection are high buildings,
ventilation stacks, radio towers, outlet towers and elevated water tanks.
Metal reservoirs, tanks, silos and other metal structures need no protection against lightning except
that they shall be properly earthed. If the construction of the foundation does not provide ample
electrical connection with the earth, ground connectors must be provided.
Steel reservoirs and elevated tanks are generally adequately earthed by the main. However, if
insulated joints are provided in the main to isolate the reservoir or tank for cathodic protection
purposes, it is necessary to measure the resistance of the structure to earth. If the resistance to earth
is more than 10 ohm an earth connection should be installed.
Electrolysis section must be consulted before additional earth connections are installed, to ensure
that the type of electrodes used do not interfere with the cathodic protection system.
5.3.2 Protection of Control Equipment. Over voltages induced on control ^'"fis by lightning in
the locality can cause faults at installations such as pumping stations. Some form of transient
protector should be fitted to all long control lines connected to transducers and to instrument
measuring and control devices. This is required because a large percentage of transducers will break
down when subjected to a voltage of 300 volts between the signal line and the body of the
transducer.
The form of protection will comprise one of the following:
(a) commercial devices similar to Rosemount Model 470A or MTL Model 370;
(b) gas discharge tubes, as used by Telecom Australia;
(c) solid state transient suppressor diodes.
(d) any other suitable approved device.
Devices should be installed at both ends of the transmission line and have low resistance paths to
ground.
It is generally not necessary to install protective devices on short underground lines up to 200 or
300 metres in length in areas where the ground conductivity is high.
The resistance to earth of storage silos and elevated water tanks should be measured and if the
resistance exceeds 10 ohms, a satisfactory earth connection must be installed.
5.3.3 Electrical Storm. Lightning strikes to ground may transfer electric currents up to
200,000 amperes and this current has to spread through the ground from the point struck. If a
pipeline passes close to the point struck it can thus carry a very high electric charge to points on the
pipeline quite remote from the storm.
Assuming that lightning protection measures have been taken on adjacent above-ground structures,
the site engineer on a pipeline construction or maintenance job must decide whether an electrical
storm constitutes a hazard to his personnel and to the job.
As a practical guide, all work on a pipeline shall be suspended during the per-Tod that an electrical
storm centre is within 2 km of the work site or the pipeline route. Limited activity may be permitted
but contact with the pipe or other metallic equipment must be avoided. An electrical storm more
than 10 km from the work site or the pipeline route should be watched to determine its direction of
travel but should not affect the work. Storms between these distances must be considered by the site
engineer on the basis of a likely hazard to personnel (e.g. whether the lightning is sheet or forked,
the urgency or otherwise of structural protection measures, etc.) and the work should be stopped
when it is considered unsafe to proceed.
6 ELECTRICAL SERVICES IN A COMMON TRENCH
Underground power cables are often installed in a common trench with telecommunication cables,
control cables and other types of equipment. These power cables can have adverse effect on the
other equipment sharing the trench by means of a electromagnetic induction or (to a lesser extent)
by heat dissipation and direct contact during fault conditions. The following is a general guide to
current practice which has proved its reliability over a substantial period of time.
6.1 NEED FOR SHARING TRENCHES
Trenches should be shared whenever possible. Trench sharing eliminates re-excavation, additional
travelling and staff, extra records and increased overheads. In most cases, where the trenches are
shared in accordance with the principles outlined in this publication, there will be a saving in costs
compared with the cost of separate operations.
6.2 SERVICES THAT CAN BE INSTALLED IN A COMMON TRENCH
The following power services can be installed in a common trench:
• High voltage cables

• Medium voltage cables
• Low voltage cables
• Underground joints
• Service pillars and pits
• Protective enclosures and covers
• Marking tape.
Other types of electrical services that may be installed in a common trench are:
• Extra low voltage control cables

• Telecommunication cables
• Telecommunications conduits
• Jointing pits other than for power cables
Non-electrical services such as water, sewer and gas may be installed in a common trench, provided
allowance is made for possible mechanical interference whem maintenance or extension of the
service is required.
6.3 WORK CO-ORDINATION AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Co-ordination in programming installation of integrated power and communication distribution

systems is essential.
The power services are more complex than the signal services so it is recommended that those
laying the power cables take responsibility for the initial installation of both types of services in the
common trench.
Alternative arrangements may be made if considered more appropriate. Such arrangements must
include details of responsibilities for:
1 Trenching
2 Backfilling or partial backfilling
3 Laying of warning tape
4 Reinstatement of lawns, driveways etc.
5 Marking-up of driveways
6 Dates of transfer of responsibility for
• protection of the public
• settlement of claims or disputes, if any.
6.4 STANDARDS
Underground power cables shall be installed in accordance with AS 3000 Part 1 - 1976 SAA wiring
Rules, section 3.15 pp 93-98 inclusive, which is reproduced in part hereunder for convenience.
6.4.1 Underground Wiring. Cables used for underground wiring systems shall be of a type
specified in column 1 of Table 6.1 and shall be enclosed as specified in section 6.4.2 of this manual.
Underground wiring systems shall be of a type set out in Table 6.1 and shall be laid and protected in
accordance with section 6.4.3 and Table 6.2.
6.4.2 Types of Underground Systems. There are three types of underground systems, as per
Table 6.1.
(a) Category A Systems. The following forms of enclosure are acceptable:
(i) Non-metallic pipe to AS C183.

(ii) Galvanised steel pipe to AS 1074.
(iii) The following encased in concrete:
• Asbestos cement pipe not necessarily to AS C183
• Terracotta pipe
• Terracotta or asbestos cement ducting
TABLE 6.1 - UNDERGROUND MIRING SYSTEMS
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Category A system Category B system Category C system

Terracotta or
Type of cab1e Non-metallic to Terracotta or
(asbestos
ASC1B3 Galvanized steel asbestos
cement pipe or F1«x1bl» PVC
pipe to cement pipe or Buried Direct Chased In rock
ducting not conduit
AS1074 ducting encased
encased 1n
in concrete
concrete
(a) Unsheathed thermoplastic and
X X
elastomeric insulated cables.
(b) Elastomeric or thermoplastic
insulated cabin, with elastomeric,
thermoplastic or lead allow sheathing., X X X X X X
complying with AS
3116 or 3147 for underground
cables, marked ‘Underground’.
(c) Armoured elastomeric insulated
or thermoplastic Insulted cables with
X X X X X X X
bedding, and serving or sheathing
comp1ying with AS3116 or 3147.
(d) Double-Insulated neutral-screened
cables having a sheathing and/or Insulation
complying with the requirements of AS X X X X X X
C155 for underground cab1es and marked
as such.
(e) Armoured lead covered cables without
X X X X
service or sheathing
(f) Unarmoured lead covered cables with or
X X X X
without serving or sheathing.
(g) Armoured lead covered cables with
X X X X X X X
serving or sheathing.
(h) Conner clad mineral-Insulated metal
sheathed cables and PVC served aluminium X X X X X X X
MIKS.
(i) Aluminium sheathed or strip armoured X X X X X X X
cables with PVC swing.
NOTE: ‘X’ denotes acceptable method
(b) Category B Systems. The following forms of enclosure are acceptable:
(i) Flexible PVC conduit.
(ii) Asbestos cement pipe which is not to AS C183, terracotta pipe, and terracotta or
asbestos cement ducting.
(iii) Buried direct - no further enclosure.
(c) Category C Systems. Chased in rock.
6.4.3 Depth of Laying and Protection of Underground Miring Systems.
(a) General. Underground wiring systems shall be installed in accordance with the
requirements of Table 6.2.
TABLE 6.2 - MINIMUM DEPTH OF LAYING AND PROTECTION OF UNDERGROUND WIRING
1 2 3 4 5
Minimum depth of laying, m
Category of
Under Mechanical protection
Enclosure
Under continuous Other
roadways concrete paved Locations
areas
Directly below No further protection

A 0.6 0.3
concrete required.
B 0.6 0.3 0.45 As required below
C As required below
(b) Category B system. Underground wiring systems enclosed in Category B enclosures

shall be embedded in not less than 50 mm of sand or top soil free of stone and covered by
not less than 50 mm of such material, and shall be provided with mechanical protection
by one of the following methods:
(i) Precast concrete slabes not less than 35 mm thick with a compressive strength of not
less than 15 MPa in accordance with AS 1480 - 1974 SAA Concrete Structures Code.
(ii) Concrete slabs, cast on site, having a minimum thickness of 100 mm.
(iii) A continuous concrete pour having a minimum thickness of 75 mm.
(iv) Asbestos cement slabs having a minimum thickness of 12 mm and to be semi-

compressed in accordance with BS 690.
(v) Approved bricks manufactured specifically for the protection of electric cables.
These materials shall be placed not more than 75 mm above the wiring system, shall be
not less than 150 mm wide and shall overlap the wiring system by at least 38 mn on each
side. Timber is not acceptable for protection of underground wiring systems.
(c) Category C System. Underground wiring systems chased into rock shall be laid in a
channel and the cable covered with fine aggregate concrete not less than 50 m thick.
6.5 PROCEDURE FOR LAYING OF CABLES
The bottom of the trench must be free of sharp projections and provide uniform support for the
installed service. If rock is encountered, the trench shall be excavated 70 mm in excess of the
specified trench depth and bedded with 70 mm of fine earth or sand.
The cable will then be laid in the trench and screened with 50 mm to 100 mm of fine earth or sand,
uncompacted in any way.
After screening, concrete slabs, if required, shall be placed over the cable. Concrete cover slabs
shall be placed over all direct-buried low voltage cables.
Plastic warning tape shall then be placed centrally over the cables at the depth shown in Fig. 6.1.
6.6 PROCEDURE FOR INSTALLATION OF SIGNAL PITS AND CONDUITS
Pits and conduits shall be installed concurrently. The particular requirements are described below.
6.6.1 Pit Installation. The following points should be noted:
• Pits shall be installed on a 100 mm consolidated bed of 7 mm aggregate (toppings), to

provide support and assist pit drainage. Backfilling around pits shall be consolidated fine
soil or sand. Consolidation around pits shall be by hand in layers not more than 150 mm
thick.
• All pits are to drain freely: drainage holes shall be protected with a vermin proof grating;
drainage conduits shall be installed as necessary. These drains to have a minimum slope
of 1 in 300.
• Conduit entry holes in pits are to be cut to the appropriate conduit size, and sealed with
mortar to prevent the ingress of water and dirt.
6.6.2 Conduit Installation. Conduits shall be installed noting the following:
(a) AH conduits shall drain into pits, in accordance with Drawing No. EC-10-550 (Fig. 6.2).
(b) Conduits are to be of white, rigid, self supporting PVC. Class 9 conduits shall be used
under roads, car parks- and other paved areas Class 6 conduits shall be used elsewhere.
(c) Conduits shall be jointed using PVC jointing cement. Joints to be water and dirt proof.
(d) Conduits shall be laid on a 50 mm bed of sand and covered with a 50 mm layer of similar
material. Sand around conduits is to be firmly tamped with an even pressure on both
sides of each conduit, to avoid alignment disturbance.
(e) All conduits shall be fitted with 1.6 mm polypropylene monofilament line (150 Ib
breaking strain fishing line). 2 m of line should be left each end of each conduit at all
pits.
(f) All installed conduits are to be free of debris.
(g) Conduits are to be temporarily sealed at all pits with duct sealing plugs or caps at time of
installation. Such plugs and caps shall be readily removable.
(h) Excavated material must be replaced and consolidated in layers not more than 150 mm
thick. The first 50 mm of backfilling material, in addition to the 50 mm layer of sand, is
to be free of stones. The first layer of backfill must be consolidated with hand rammers.
Subsequent layers may be mechanically rammed.
(j) Excavated material may be used as backfill except at road crossings. At road crossings,
trenches are to be backfilled, above the sand, using 20 mm 'A' grade crushed rock.
6.7 SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS
Considerations should be given to ease of maintenance when laying services in a trench.
Signal pits and conduits shall be off-set in the trench to permit easy access to the power cable below
(see Fig. 6.1).
Signal pits should be also at least two metres distant from any joins in the power cable or from
service points.
Where induced voltages are expected to be a problem (e.g. chopped waves from Thyristor Controls)
the communication cables should be screened.
7 ELECTRONIC/PROCESS CONTROL EQUIPMENT
7.1 HARDWIRED EQUIPMENT
Hardwired equipment is equipment in which the data aquisition unit is connected to the read-
out/processor unit by direct metallic conductors. The conductors may be metres or kilometres long.
7.1.1 Nature of the Hazard. An earth fault in high voltage equipment in an installation can
cause fault currents of thousands of amperes. In general, the earthing resistance at an installation
must be kept to a minimum, and no greater than one ohm. Even in these circumstances, a 1000
ampere fault current with one ohm resistance results in a potential rise of 1000 volts. It is therefore
essential that connection of services to installations with high voltage equipment is arranged to
ensure that such rapid voltage rises do not harm equipment or personnel. The services which require
consideration are those for telecommunication, telemetry, instrumentation, power and controls.
7.1.2 Telecommunications. Because telecommunications systems are d.c. circuits, special

methods of isolating the installations from outside networks are required. This is provided by the
use of Barrier Relay sets in accordance with TCA standards - refer to section 7.2 of this manual.
7.1.3 Telemetry. Telemetry systems use voice frequency bearers as the vehicle for signal and
message transmission, consequently isolation can be provided by means of equipment using
transformers.
Telemetry systems which use TCA switched networks or TCA private lines must be provided with
line interface equipment in accordance with the relevant TCA Specifications - refer to section 7.3 of
this manual.
In installations where the Board provides its own cables, the insulation level between the outside
line and the frame of the isolating transformer must be chosen in accordance with the predicted
voltage surges during fault conditions.
7.1.4 Analogue Signals. The industry standard for analogue signals has become either 1-
5V or 4-20 mA dc signal transmitted over two wires. If these signals are to be transmitted beyond
the bounds of a plant or area which can experience high voltage surges, protection to plant and
personnel is required. This protection can take the form of surge protection devices, transformation
to ac signals which permit the use of isolating transformers, telemetering techniques, or any other
method appropriate to the project concerned.
7.1.5 Digital Signals. Digital signals are those which transmit two discrete states, i.e an
open or closed signal, from one location to another. Suitable isolation can be provided by
introducing an interposing relay with contacts having high voltage isolation from the
coil. The coil of the interposing relay is driven by the power supplies within the installation while
the external circuit is provided with a voltage free contact having the appropriate -insulation.
7.1.6 Installation. The high voltage isolation equipment for each system shall be located
together for each service, and clearly labelled with warnings for the operations and maintenance
staff.
7.1.7 Voltage Levels. The predicted voltage levels during fault conditions shall be provided
by the engineer responsible for the design of the high voltage installation.
A paper Voltage Gradients through the Ground Under Fault Conditions by AIEE Committee, AIEE
Trans. Oct 1958 pp 669-692, provides guidelines on calculation of predicted fault voltage.
7.2 TELECOMMUNICATION FACILITIES
This section describes the measures to be taken to make telecommunication facilities electrically
compatible with electrical power, telemetry and process control systems within an installation.
The areas requiring particular attention are:
• TCA telecommunication cables within buildings.
• MMBW telecommunication cables within buildings.
• Attachment of equipment to telecommunication circuits.
• Earthing.
• Lightning protection.
7.2.1 Safety - General. Telecommunication systems are designed to eliminate the possibility
of voltage leaks in excess of 30 volts ac (peak) and 70 volts dc to persons or telecommunication
lines. Telecommunication maintenance personnel do not expect to encounter such excessive
voltages, hence they do not normally take safety precautions.
7.2.2 TCA Telecommunication Cables Within Buildings. The installation of TCA Cables
within buildings is prescribed by TCA Specifications. Variations from these specifications must
have the approval of the TCA Authorised Officer. Features which will affect the arrangement of the
installation are;
(a) General. TCA cables shall be separated from:
(i) pipes containing gases or liquids, and electrical or other conduits,

(ii) cables or any other electrical system such as Low and Medium Voltage lighting and
power. Extra-low Voltage, bell, burglar alarm, call, communication, radio, remote
door opening, sound distribution, television or time control (referred to below as
other cables), and
(iii) high voltage cables.
(b) Cables in Conduits and Ducts. TCA cables shall not be accommodated in the same
conduit, duct or skirting space as other cables:
(i) Where a common trunking is used to accommodate TCA cables and other cables, a
separate duct shall be provided within the trunking for TCA cables.
(ii) The construction of the duct shall be such that TCA cables are segregated from all
other cables by a continuous and rigid barrier for the entire length of the trunking.
(iii) If the material used in the construction of the duct is metallic, it shall be connected to
the electric lighting and power earthing system of the building.
(c) Cable Termination. Where TCA cables and other cables are terminated within the one
enclosure, the conductors and connections of the TCA cables shall be effectively
separated from those of all other cables by means of permanent, rigidly fixed screens or
partitions, or by such other means as will provide permanent physical separation.
(d) Cables Not Enclosed in Conduits or Ducts.
(i) TCA cables installed other than in accordance with sections 7.2.2(b) and (c) above
e.g., installed as surface cabling or in concealed locations shall meet the following
requirements:
• they must be separated for their entire length from the pipes, electrical or other
conduits or other cables by a distance of not less than 50 mm, except where there
is an interposing barrier, the distance may be reduced.
• the barrier shall be rigidly fixed and installed for the entire length of the cables.
• the barrier shall be of such dimensions that at every point the shortest path
between the TCA cables and the other services, around the barrier, shall be 50
mm. This distance is measured between the outsides of the other services and the
cable sheaths.
• if the barrier is metallic, it shall be connected to the electric lighting and power
earthing system of the building.
(ii) Where TCA cables cross the pipes, electrical or other conduits, or other cables, a
bridge of suitable insulating material at least 7 mm in thickness shall be provided at
the crossing.
(e) High Voltage Cables.
(i) Single-core Cables. Where TCA cables run alongside or cross single-core cables,
irrespective of whether there is an interposing barrier, they shall without exception be
separated for their entire length from the single-core cables by a distance of not less
than 450 mm.
(ii) Multi-core Cables. Where TCA cables run alongside or cross mulIf-core cables,
they shall be separated for their entire length from the multi-core cables by a distance
of not less than 300 mm, except that where there is an interposing barrier, they shall
be separated by a distance of not less than 150 mm. The barrier shall consist of
concrete at least 50 mm in thickness and shall be rigidly fixed. The barrier shall be of
such dimensions that at every point, the shortest path between the TCA cables and
the multi-core cables round the barrier shall be at least 175 mm, measured from the
outside of the cable sheaths.
7.2.3 Attachment of Equipment to Telecommunication Cables. To attach equipment other

than standard telephone instruments to telecommunication cables, the equipment must satisfy
requirements in the following areas:
(a) Protection of personnel and equipment from dangerous voltages.
(b) Connection method.
(c) Where the public switched network is involved, the satisfaction of exchange line calling
conditions.
(d) Electrical impedance.
(e) Transmission limits in respect to frequency bandwidth, power limits, noise and amplifier
performance.
All equipment intended for attachment to TCA cables must satisfy TCA specifications and be
approved by TCA. Equipment, which has been so approved, will bear an approval number, which is
readily visible.
As the considerations affecting the attachment of equipment to MMBW cable systems are identical
to those for the TCA system, the same standards shall apply. Equipment for attachment should,
therefore, have TCA approval.
7.2.4 Earthing. It is standard practice to earth the positive pole of TCA telecommunication
batteries, i.e., providing a normal power supply of -50 volts (nominal).
The separate TCA telecommunication earth will be installed by the TCA but this earth may be
connected to the general earth system at the installation. The maximum earth resistance permitted
is 7 ohms. Consideration should be given, during the design stage of an installation, to the likely
location of such an earth. It should be established close to the TCA main distribution frame and
connected thereto by an accessible route.
The requirements for the MMBW telecommunication earth are identical to those for the TCA earth.
7.2.5 Lightning and Excess Voltage Protection. Telecommunication equipment which is

connected to telecommunication lines must be protected against damage from electrical hazards,
such as:
(i) Lightning discharges, which may be as high as 2.5 megavolts.
(ii) Direct contact with or induction from electric supply circuits carrying from 200 volts to
330 kilovolts.
Aerial lines are particularly exposed to these hazards - the use of underground cable reduces the
dangers.
These 'foreign' voltages are much higher than those for which a telecommunication system is
designed, and they may puncture the cable insulation or cause excessive currents in circuits, causing
danger to lives and property.
The more common protective devices are arresters, fuses and heat coils. They are not affected by
normal speech and signalling voltages and currents, but operate when the foreign voltage or current
on the line is excessive. The line is then disconnected automatically from the equipment or a
connection to earth is provided clear of the equipment. Protective equipment is fitted as required, at
ends of cables in protected cable terminal boxes and at main distribution frames.
Where protective equipment is used, a suitable earthing system must be provided.
Further information on lightning protection is given in section 5 of this manual.
7.2.6 Procedure to be followed. The measures to be taken to make telecommunication

facilities electrically compatible with those for electrical power, telemetry and process control will
depend, to some extent, upon the type of installation; for example, a pumping station, or an
electrical switchyard. The general aims and principles, however, are as outlined in the preceding
sections of this manual.
At the beginning of the design stage of any project for which telecommunication facilities will be
necessary, the advice of the Communication Engineer should be sought.
7.3 TELEMETRY FACILITIES
This section outlines the requirements and procedures necessary to ensure compatibility between
telemetry facilities and other services in an installation.
• The areas discussed are:

• communication bearers
• telemetry interface equipment
• data input and output requirements
power supplies
7.3.1 Telemetry Communication Bearers. The communication link is the most important
element of a telemetry system. If it is inadequate, system degradation results and operation
reliability suffers.
Common methods of communicating telemetry data are the use of radio links or land lines.
(a) Radio Links, The use of radio as a transmission medium for telemetry data is now very
restricted because of limitations imposed by the TCA. Radio will be considered as a
proposition by the TCA only if they cannot provide land lines to the telemetry
installation. For multiple site systems a hybrid arrangement combining both radio links
and TCA lines may be necessary.
(b) Land Lines.
(i) Board Owned Lines. This is the most satisfactory type of communication bearer -
privately owned, laid and maintained by the Board. Such a line gives a high degree
of security and complete integration with other equipment. However, cable laying Is
expensive and is usually only considered if lines are short In distance or are laid with
new mains or In the same trenches as other services. Operational problems do arise
but these are mainly due to bad laying or jointing of cables or damage by excavating
plant.
(ii) TCA Lines. The use of rented TCA land lines is the most common method of
sending telemetry data. The TCA offers a wide range of lines with different
characteristics, and the choice of circuit will depend on the type and speed of data of
the telemetry system required. Irrespective of which type of line is used, the TCA
requires that the privately owned terminal equipment, (in this case telemetry
equipment), conform with special standards and is TCA approved for connection to
their lines.
These standards cover protection, frequency and power levels. 'Protection' meaning
the provision of an adequate interface between the private equipment and the lines
such that high level voltages (excess of 30 V ac peak and 70 V dc) cannot stray into
the lines causing damage and risk to TCA personnel.
The two main categories of TCA lines available for telemetry use are:
• Switched Network Lines. Data transfer using these lines is through the
telephone system. Terminal monitoring equipment dials a predetermined
telephone number. This may be done manually or by hardware or software
control and upon establishing a circuit data transfer is performed.
• Leased Private Lines. Leased private lines are usually point-to-point or

'multidrop' trunk circuits for the exclusive use of the lease. Various grades of
two or four wire circuits are available and selection and cost of lines is governed
by factors such as speed of transmission (baud rate), frequency, bandwidth and
attenuation.
(c) Selection of Type of TCA Land Line. The Board's telemetry systems are based on a
three-tier system, which are as follows:
(i) Tier 1 - Telemetry systems which send real time data and have options for remote
control facilities, e.g., Metropolitan Telemetry System (MTS) Main Drainage
Hydrology, Brooklyn-Spotswood, M.O.S. Telemetry Systems.
(ii) Tier 2 - Telemetry systems sending critical alarms on occurrence and real time data
on request, e.g., Plant monitoring using Board designed Programmable
Asynchronous Telemetry System (PATS) equipment
(iii) Tier 3 - Telemetry systems sending critical alarms on occurrence. e.g., Telealarm
installations.
Tier 1 employs TCA privately leased lines.
Tiers 2 and 3 make use of the TCA switched network, and offer a significant cost saving
in TCA rental charges. However, system monitored information may not be 'real time"
information.
(d) Installation of Land Lines. Refer to section 7.2 of this manual.
7.3.2 Telemetry Interface Equipment - Annunciators. Annunciators are an important part of a

station's control and indication facility. Annunciators perform a number of important functions
whether the station is equipped with telemetry or not. These functions are:
(a) Visual indication for quick appreciation of station performance.
(b) A definite interface point to separate control functions from systems associated with
alarms and telemetry.
(c) Provision to group fault or state indications for operational management and control.
If annunciators are not provided the state signals commence on relays within the station control
system. Voltage free contacts are difficult to arrange in these installations.
Installations with simple alarm functions may be treated as special cases and may not require
complex annunciators e.g., simple pressure or level alarm systems. However, even these
installations are better from an operations point of view when annunciator latching facilities are
provided.
7.3.3 Data Input and Output Requirements. Data input and output information falls into two
categories:
1 Single bit or digital data.
2 Analogue variables.
To achieve compatibility, minimum cost and fail-safe conditions, circuitry shall, as far as possible,
be configured as follows:
(a) Single bit or digital Inputs. These inputs usually represent state indications and fault or
alarm conditions (Refer to Fig. 7.1)
(b) Digital Outputs. (Refer to Fig. 7.2).
(c) Analog Inputs. (Refer to Fig. 7.3).
(d) Analog Outputs. (Refer to Fig. 7.4).
7.3.4 DC Power Supplies. DC power supply requirements for telemetry installations are not
too demanding. In addition to the capacity requirements of the supply, for telemetry, the following
points are required for installation compatibility.
1 For most installations a 24V dc supply is required. This usually takes the form of a
battery charger combination. dc - dc converters may be required where station supplies
do not correspond to telemetry requirements. There are a number of telemetry
installations within the Board operating from either 12V dc or 50V dc supplies.
2 Under current ATC interface specifications for equipment attached to ATC lines, the
power supply does not require ATC approval. However, older telemetry equipment may
not be fitted with this type of line interface equipment, and therefore require an ATC
approved power supply.
3 Solid state equipment manufacturers presently tend to favour the practice of earthing the
negative side of the supply. Several advantages may be gained from this practice. These
are:
(i) If, under fault conditions, high voltage comes into contact with either battery or
input/output circuitry, an earthed supply and adequate fusing provide protection for
maintenance personnel.
Unearthed supplies require elaborate sensing to provide protection for equipment and
personnel from foreign voltages.
(ii) The effect of power supply 'noise' is considerably reduced.
(iii) Only one side of the power supply and input/output leads need be fused and isolated.
(iv) A 'common' point is produced to which all system voltages may be referred.
7.3.5 Procedures to be Followed. To ensure maximum compatibility with existing Board

telemetry installations and monitoring systems, the planning of new systems should be done in
liaison with the Board's Telemetry Group. To assist officers involved in the installation and design
of plant, which requires telemetry facilities, the following points are a guide for design co-
ordination:
(a) Type of Telemetry Installation Required. The choice of equipment will depend on:
• the amount and level of monitored information required.
• whether telecontrol facilities are, or will be, an operational requirement.
Provision must be made in cubicles for housing telemetry hardware, TCA telephone or
interface equipment and the power supply (this may include a battery charger and
batteries). Mains power is required for the battery charger.
(b) Selection of Data Transmission Circuit. This circuit will usually make use of the TCA
facilities. The type of circuit, which may be either a private line or lines, or the switched
network, will be determined by the level of the telemetry installation e.g.. Tier 1, 2 or 3 as
defined in section 7.3.1.
The TCA requires a separate conduit to carry their cables to the telemetry equipment.
Conduits to accommodate telemetry and telephone cables should be provided at the initial
design stages of the installation. Applications for TCA circuits for telemetry purposes
shall be made in conjunction with the Telemetry Group, who will liaise with the
Communication Control Centre.
(c) Annunciator Equipment. This is the prime source for monitoring state and alarm
information and will usually form the interface for the telemetry equipment. Annunciator
equipment must conform with the requirements and specifications of the Board's Design
Groups.
(d) Data Input and Output Requirements. Section 7.3.3 details the requirements for input
and output signals and the methods, which shall be followed to ensure optimum
compatibility and simplicity of electrical installations.
(e) DC Power Supplies. The type of telemetry equipment selected for the installation will
determine the type and DC requirements of the power supply. Most solid state equipment
tends to favour the negative side of the DC supply to be connected to earth, however,
there is no firm rule for this option. Refer to sections 7.3.4 and 10 for details.
NOTES: 1 Example of 'Grouped' alarm input. It must be realised that closure of any one
alarm contact in a group prevents further transmission of other alarms in the same
group until the first alarm is cleared or isolated.
2 Relays shown for explanation only. Some telemetry equipment uses logic gates
instead of actual relays.
3 Separate isolation devices may be fitted to both sides of annunciator output

contacts, but no advantage is gained.
4 Maximum current through annunciator contacts will be 50 mA. Voltage across

contacts will be ≤ power supply (generally 24V dc).
5 Battery negative terminal is generally earthed inside the telemetry equipment.
FIGURE 7.1 - GROUPED ALARM INPUT

NOTES: 1 Relay coils to be of suitable resistance such that approximately 50 mA win flow
through each telemetry output contact.
2 Maximum relay supply shall be 60V. Usually, the telemetry dc power supply shall
be used.
3 Back EMF suppression required on all dc interface relays. Diode shown as

example.
4 Circuitry shown allows removal of telemetry unit for service without generating
false alarms or control functions.
5 Visual indication of output functions shall be provided to assist operations

personnel.
FIGURE 7.2 - DIGITAL OUTPUTS CIRCUITRY

NOTES: 1 Input signals shall be 0-20 mA dc. Q,5V dc is acceptable with most telemetry
equipment. Active range is 4-20 mA dc or 1-5V dc respectively. Currents of less
than 4 mA dc or voltages less than IV dc will generally be transmitted with less
accuracy. Maximum transmitted current value will be 20.4 mA dc or 5.1V dc for
voltage signals.
2 Generally, input circuitry will withstand 100 mA without permanent damage to

the telemetry equipment.
3 Common mode voltage shall be limited externally to less than 60V to reduce risk
to maintenance personnel. Most equipment is designed to operate correctly up to
200V common mode voltage, whereas other equipment requires zero common
mode voltage for correct operation.
4 Signal wiring need not be shielded, but pairs shall be twisted when used for long
runs.
5 Signal wiring should not be run in conduit or in open trays with power wiring and
shall be kept away from high voltage equipment as far as practical.
6 Selected transducer equipment e.g., Magnetic Flow Meters, have specific

installation requirements. Consult manuals for those details.
FIGURE 7.3 - ANALOGUE INPUTS CIRCUITRY

NOTES: 1 Output current win be 0-20 mA with 4-20 mA active range. The analogue output
will follow the digital input up to a maximum of 20.4 mA. Accuracy may be
reduced below 4 mA.
2 Digital outputs representing analogue values can be provided and are the preferred
method.
3 Maximum value of load resistance is dependant on telemetry equipment power

supply voltage.
4 Some telemetry equipment may be configured such that the negative lead of the
dc supply is earthed within the equipment.
FIGURE 7.4 - ANALOGUE OUTPUTS CIRCUITRY

8 CATHODIC PROTECTION
A metal pipe in the ground corrodes due to the formation of small "batteries' on the metal surface,
and electric currents flow in the pipe and the adjacent soil. Where these currents transfer from the
metal pipe to the soil, the metal is corroded. Cathodic protection is a system which applies a DC
current through the soil to the pipe with sufficient magnitude to 'swamp' all the corrosion 'batteries'.
The anode, or ground bed, where the cathodic protection current is put into the soil does suffer
corrosion but the material is chosen to have a long life and the location is chosen for ease of
replacement.
It is essential that the cathodic protection current arrives at the pipe as uniformly as possible,
through the soil, and not through a poorly coated pipe fitting or a nearby electrical earth which is
connected to the pipe through a pump/motor unit. Such 'short circuits' can collect a large part of the
cathodic protection current and thus leave very little to protect the pipeline e.g.,
• a new well coated pipeline requires 1 mi 11 lamp of current per 100 sq.m. of pipe surface
area, (15 m of 2100 mm dia. or 100 m of 300 mm dia. pipe).
• an uncoated steel pipe fitting absorbs 20 mi Hi amp of current per 1 sq.m, of surface area.
• a copper electrical earth/or water service absorbs 200 milliamp of current per 1 sq.m, of
metal surface area.
An example of this situation occurred at the South Eastern Purification Plant, where the 10 km long
steel section of the outfall was protected with 1 ampere of current before it was connected to the
plant. Suitable insulating flange designs were not available at that time, so now the plant requires
115 amperes of corrosion protection current to achieve the same degree of protection on the
pipeline.
It is therefore necessary to separate cathodically protected steel pipes from electrical earths etc,
without affecting the earthing efficiency and without introducing personnel safety hazards via
possible step/touch potentials between adjacent accessible equipment.
8.1 METHODS OF SEPARATION
There are three practical and economic methods of separation available, and each requires special
consideration to maintain personnel safety.
8.1.1 Insulation Between the Protected Pipe and the Earthed Fitting. Each branch fitting is
insulated from the new main during construction, as a standard procedure. In addition, the new
main is insulated from pump stations, reservoirs etc. Thus, new mains are unlikely to present
problems, however, later modification e.g., power actuation of an in-line
valve can short-circuit the insulation provided. In this situation, insulating flanges or joints can be
installed each side of the valve and thus maintain the electrical isolation.
The main factors when considering this system are:
(i) the cost of insulation - modification of existing flanges up to 600 mm dia. or installation
of integral joints which cost approximately $1,500 for a 600 nm dia. joint, up to
approximately $15,000 for a 2100 mm dia. joint;
(ii) if the fitting is in a pit, the insulation must be located underground, outside the pit, to
ensure that only one safety earthed structure is touchable by personnel.
8.1.2 Power Earth Isolation and Non-Copper Local Earth. The main problem arising from the
electricity supply connection to a pump etc, is the large amount of protective current absorbed by
the conventional copper earth mat used in the power system. This can be avoided by arranging the
supply to the pipe fitting/pump etc, to be isolated, in a DC sense, from the outside supply network
and to be earthed at a local earth installed by the Board.
Isolation is achieved by including a double-wound transformer in the power line and taking great
care to keep outside and local earths separate.
The local earth must be of some material, other than copper, which does not absorb large quantities
of current. Galvanised steel or zinc alloy anodes are acceptable. The resistance to earth of a ground
rod is mainly related to its size, so that a 1500 mm rod of any material will have the same effective
earth resistance. (See Fig. 8.2).
The main factors in considering this type of system are:
(i) the cost of the isolating transformer (although this can often be the local substation
transformer);
(ii) possible step/touch potential problems near the incoming power lines because of their
different earth;
(iii) zinc anode rods cannot be driven into the soil and must be lowered into a drilled hole
8.1.3 Anode Field Effect. In the case of an isolated structure with a substantial copper earth
and only small areas of steel requiring protection it may be possible to place the anodes so that the
protective current flows past the steel to the copper earth and the voltage drop in the soil applies the
protection to the steel (see Fig. 8.3).
For example, Kew Sewerage Pumping Station has a copper earth ring around the station and some
steel pipe between the pump well and the trunk sewer. It was possible to drill holes and place the
anodes below the steel and the combined effect of current flowing onto the steel and flowing past to
the copper earth provides the necessary protection.
This concept raises no personnel safety problems but is only applicable to a compact structure. The
feasibility can only be assessed for a specific location by the Electrolysis Section.
8.2.1 General. Whenever one of the practices described in section 8.1 has been used, the
following procedures shall be complied with:
(a) Notify the Electrolysis Section of the location of each zinc earthing bed, providing details
of number and size of the zinc anodes to enable registration of the bed with the Chief
Electrical Inspector, Victoria.
(b) When a galvanised steel earth bed is used, magnesium galvanic anodes must also be
installed (this prevents corrosion) and all details notified to the Electrolysis Section.
(c) Regular monitoring schemes for the electrical characteristics shall be instituted.
(d) Construction and maintenance engineers shall ensure that the design intent i"s understood
and maintained by all site personnel.
8.2.2 New Steel Pipelines. The following procedures shall apply:
(a) All offtakes and fittings shall be insulated from the main.
(b) Insulating joints/flanges shall be provided at each end of a new pipeline and at major
offtakes, e.g. to pump stations etc, in consultation with the Electrolysis Section. (See Fig.
8.4, 8.5: Water Supply Drawing Nos. S24/134 and S24/133).
(c) The type of electrical earthing system for associated facilities, if any, shall be determined
by the designer after considering the three possible systems described in section 8.1
above, and/or in consultation with the Electrolysis Section.
8.2.3 New Buried Fuel Tanks. The -following procedures shall apply:
(a) All suction "lines to the pumps and vent lines, which may contact building structures etc,
shall be insulated from the tank. The fill pipe shall be insulated if it leads from a remote
position.
(b) Magnesium galvanic anodes (10 kg nominal with backfill) shall be placed in the tank
excavation at the rate of:
4 anodes per tank up to 20000L capacity
6 anodes per tank over 20000L capacity
(c) A lead from the tank and a lead from the anode group shall be joined by bolted lugs in a
suitable junction box set at ground level near the tank.
(d) The site electrical earth may be of any appropriate construction because it will not
interact with the buried tanks.
8.2.4 Modification of Existing Pipelines. The following procedures shall apply:
(a) When instrumentation equipment is added to a pipeline, the sensing lines should be either
non-metallic or insulated from the pipeline as near the point of entry as possible. Thus,
the power actuated recorder/equipment does not contact the pipe at all.
(b) When adding power/remote control to an existing pipe/fitting then the following shall
apply:
(i) for 450 mm dia. or smaller pipe fittings:
• insert insulation each side of the fitting;
• if the fitting is in a pit, the insulation must be outside the pit;
• if 'direct buried', then the fitting flanges may be converted in accordance with
Water Supply drawing No. S24/107 (Fig. 8.6).
(ii) for 600 mm dia. and larger pipe fittings:
• power isolation plus zinc earth is usually most economic;
• insulation each side is acceptable;
• anode field effect may be suitable - consult the Electrolysis Section.

(c) When modifying a pipeline for connection to a Pump Station etc, consult the Electrolysis
Section. They will normally specify insulation between the new structure and the existing
pipeline.
In order to minimise the capital and running costs of a future cathodic protection system
for the new structure, it is desirable that the substation transformer on site provides
isolation from the supply system and that the local earth be zinc anode or galvanised
steel.
9 SPECIAL EQUIPMENT
9.1 EARTHING OF INSTRUMENTATION SYSTEMS
To avoid errors or "noise" that may be caused by stray earth currents, an instrumentation system
earth should be located centrally in relation to the system hardware, preferably adjacent to the
control room or data presentation cubicle.
9.2 MAGNETIC FLOW METERS
9.2.1 Earthing of Magnetic Flow Metering Systems. The signal generated by a magnetic flow
metering primary element is at a very low level and prone to distortion by ambient stray potentials
in the metered fluid and inductive/ capacitive pickup from nearby equipment.
In order to achieve an accurate and stable magnetic flow metering system, it is necessary to over-
ride the 'one earth only' rule set out in section 9.1. Magnetic flow measurement may be treated as a
special case in which multiple earths are permitted; provided that at each field installation all
instrumentation, plant and the metered fluid are correctly earthed to the same common earth and
that the output of the Installation is provided with signal isolation relative to the remainder of the
installation system.
9.2.2 Installation Requirements for Magnetic Flow Meters. The earthing of a magnetic flow
measurement system is divided into two categories:
• the central system which interfaces with other plant instrumentation;
• the field systems which are independent and individual systems:
(a) The Central Earth System. The earthing of control room panels and receiving
instruments is to normal instrumentation standards as shown in Fig. 9.1. This applies also
to control systems and to any associated field-mounted regulating devices or position
feed-back transmitters.
(b) Field Earth Systems. Figure 9.2 shows the earthing requirements of the field
installations. Each installation needs individual investigation to ascertain the effect of
any plant earthing system installed for cathodic protection over and above the effect of
the electric power system earth. The earthing of the flow measurement system must
match this exactly.
It is essential that the potential of the metered fluid in the detector head is held, stably, at
the potential of the pipeline field earth. If the pipeline is unlined metal, this will suffice.
If it is lined with a non-conducting or poorly conducting material, a stainless steel contra-
flange should be installed immediately upstream of the detector head, securely connected
to the local field earth. The contra-flange will provide satisfactory earthing and physical
protection at the metered lining.
The flow converter earth, any ancillary devices and any metal covers and cubicles should
be connected to the local field earth, to avoid capacitive noise. This is usually done by
the manufacturer, but should be checked. If the flow converter, as supplied, does not
provide an isolated output, a separate signal isolating amplifier must be provided.
FIG. 9.1 - CENTRAL EARTH SYSTEM
9.3 INSTRUMENTATION IN EARTH AND ROCK FILLED DAMS
Instrumentation is provided in earth and rock filled dams to monitor the behaviour of the dam
structure. If electrical instruments are used, protective measures are required to ensure the continued
operation of the equipment.
9.3.1 Installation Requirements. The main cause of damage to electrical instruments

embedded in a dam structure is lightning strikes which cause uneven potential gradients in the dam.
The variable moisture content (due to changes in water level) and the different soil resistivity of the
various structural zones in the dam create an uneven resistance. Consequently, during the high
current flows which result from lightning strikes, high voltages are developed which can damage
the instruments and associated wiring.
These variable potential gradients can be overcome by installing an earth wire about 75 mm above
each cable. If several cables run together in the same direction, one earth wire is adequate. Where a
cable departs from the main run, branches can be brazed to the main earth conductors.
NOTES:
• Required if pipes are made of, or lined with, a non-conducting material e.g. cement.
• Unless already provided, or at non-conducting material, to avoid capacitive noise.
• Unless already provided in pre-amplifier 0/P.
• If supplied as a separate unit.
FIGURE 9.2 - FIELD EARTH SYSTEM

All earth conductors are terminated at the terminal well, with entry points insulated. The
reinforcement of the terminal well structure is bonded together and an earth stub is brought out
inside the structure, The LV earth is connected to this stub.
The instrument earth conductor is connected to the stub by a link and diode type device. The link
will permit independent testing and the diode type device is intended to prevent corrosion currents
but pass surge currents.
By separately terminating each cable core and insulating these terminals from each other and the
well structure, to provide at least 5 kV insulation, the risk of failure of the instrument due to surges
in the well is reduced.
The risk of failure due to surges in the power system is further reduced by ensuring that the high
and low voltage systems of the power supply are separately earthed, and that the distance between
the supply transformer and the terminal well is minimal.
9.3.2 Recommendation. Electrically based instrumentation systems in earth and rock fill dams
require protective earth systems. These earth systems must be individually designed for each
installation, bearing in mind the factors outlined in section 9.3.1 above.
10 DC POWER SUPPLIES
Direct current power supplies are used to provide measurement, control, indication, protection, data
transmission and communication. Where it is necessary to provide these services during ac supply
failures, batteries and chargers are always used.
10.1 DC POWER SUPPLY ARRANGEMENTS
DC power supplies are operated either earthed or unearthed:
(a) Unearthed Systems. Unearthed systems are used where high reliability or high security
of circuits is required, e.g., circuit-breaker tripping circuits. In these situations, it is
necessary to ensure that an earth fault in control equipment does not disable vital plant or
cause spurious operation. Consequently, earth fault and battery leakage monitoring
equipment is required to ensure operation of plant is not impaired.
(b) Earthed Systems. Earthed systems are used in all other situations with the advantages of
simpler equipment, simpler fusing requirements, and safer working conditions for
maintenance personnel and equipment because dangerous voltage levels, due to failure of
other equipment, are prevented.
10.2 POWER SUPPLY INSTALLATIONS
The requirements for the various types of installations are discussed below.
10.2.1 Telecommunication. The Board's telecommunications system is intimately associated

with and is controlled by the requirements of Telecom Australia. It is necessary therefore for them
to follow Telecom practice of positive earthing.
This does not present any problem to other Board electrical installations, because the
telecommunications system power supply is independent of all other Board installations.
Equipment is installed to Telecom Australia standards and thus provides power supply isolation.
In PABX installations, radio links etc, separate power supplies are required for each operation.
10.2.2 Telemetry. The equipment used in modern telemetry systems uses solid state technology
which is based on a common negative, which is earthed. Where these systems are required to use
Telecom Australia facilities, approved interface equipment is required, to isolate the two systems.
This is done to protect Telecom personnel.
10.2.3 Power and Control Systems. In these installations ac control systems are used whenever
possible to ensure a simple installation with low maintenance. The control systems are arranged to
automatically shut down on loss of the transmitted ac electric power, and automatically re-start
when the power is restored.
In those situations, where it is necessary to operate circuit-breakers, dropboards, valves and similar
equipment (particularly in the larger installations) when the ac power supply has failed, dc power
supplies derived from batteries are used. In these situations consideration is given to using
unearthed batteries, depending on the level of security required.
Where a station battery is provided for power and control systems and they are not of the correct
voltage for the telemetry equipment, either a separate battery or a dc/dc converter can be used. The
converter is preferred and this can be negatively earthed if required.
10.2.4 Instrumentation. Instrumentation circuits can be supplied direct from a battery or

through a dc converter run from the ac supply.
Most equipment associated with instrumentation circuits is designed using a "fail safe' concept
where, on loss of power, supply equipment opens, closes or holds in accordance with predetermined
requirements. Earthed signals are suitable in these situations. There are however some situations
and suppliers which require unearthed signals. Each installation needs to be examined on its merits
to determine whether an unearthed or earthed power supply is required. Where circuits are earthed,
the negative side is earthed.
10.3 DC POWER SUPPLY REQUIREMENTS
Batteries are prone to leakage currents to ground, which do not flatten the battery as a whole but
affect only a few cells depending on the location of the leakage. It is not possible with earthed
batteries to provide earth leakage protection, the only form of protection being under-voltage.
Regular maintenance is required to monitor battery condition.
In order to achieve high reliability with unearthed batteries, it is necessary to provide equipment
which will detect earth leakages due to battery problems, earth faults, and under-voltage. This
equipment is arranged to raise alarms and not to trip off supplies.
Batteries and chargers should each be connected to the busbars through separate fuses so that
maintenance of the charger and battery can take place without supply interruption. It is necessary to
ensure the charger will be able to carry the load as well as carry-out re-charging after an ac supply
fault. To ensure reliable operation during maintenance with the battery removed, the charger shall
be provided with harmonic filtering and voltage regulation.
10.4 SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR UNEARTHED SYSTEMS
The principle concern with an unearthed dc system is the possibility of either failure of other
equipment causing a potential rise in the dc system and thus a hazard to maintenance personnel.
This can be monitored by designing the earth fault detection equipment to operate on ac or dc
voltages.
In both earthed and unearthed systems, protection against surges and long term faults can be
provided by use of lightning protection units incorporating special isolating relays for long term
faults (refer to section 5 of this manual).
10.5 DISCUSSION
Telecommunication power supplies are earthed on one side (i.e. positive) to prevent excessive
voltages due to faults on power lines and lightning strikes, which cause hazards to personnel and
equipment. Solid state equipment requires fast over-voltage protection to prevent damage. This
fast protection is also an advantage for maintenance personnel.
Telemetry equipment power supplies are earthed to prevent dangerous voltages caused by
breakdown of insulation, relay faults and induced voltages such as lightning. Modern telemetry
equipment uses devices which require a common negative which has resulted in this being earthed.
There is no interconnection with Telecom equipment so it is possible to use a negative earth for
telemetry equipment.
Instrumentation systems are either floating or negative earthed supplies. The choice of negative
earthed or floating supplies depends on factors such as suppliers recommendations, project
requirements, and interconnection between areas in a plant. This applies to battery supplies or
converters working from ac supplies.
Control systems for process plants can use either positive or negative earthed supplies. Traditional
practice was to use positive earths due to electrolytic corrosion of the coils, however modern
insulation systems have largely overcome this problem.
In instrumentation or control systems, where there are essential circuits which can not rely on
failsafe design approaches, it is necessary to use unearthed batteries to ensure one earth fault will
not disable the plant. These requirements must be established for each project. Where there is no
such requirement the battery can be negative earthed.
10.6 RECOMMENDATION
For telecommunication systems a positively earthed dc supply system in accordance with Telecom
Australia requirements is required.
For high reliability and high security circuits such as circuit breaker trip circuits, an unearthed dc
supply with appropriate earth fault detection systems should be used.
For other systems, a negative earthed dc supply should suffice.

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Water Industry Technical Standards

Specification No: 95-098.1

Water Industry Technical Standards

All rights reserved.

This publication is protected by copyright and is provided under licence.

Changes maybe made periodically to the information herein.

PART I - SUPPORT SERVICES AND SECTION RESPONSIBILITIES

INSTRUCTIONS FOR THE USE OF:

4 PIPELINES PARALLEL TO ELECTRICITY TRANSMISSION LINES 7

4.2 CONSTRUCTION AND MAINTENANCE 8

5.2 CONSTRUCTION AND OPERATION 8

6 ELECTRICAL SERVICES IN A COMMON TRENCH 8

7 ELECTRONIC/PROCESS CONTROL EQUIPMENT 9

7.2 CONSTRUCTION AND MAINTENANCE 9

8.2 CONSTRUCTION AND MAINTENANCE 9

9.2 CONSTRUCTION AND MAINTENANCE 10

APPENDIX 1 - SCHEMATIC LAYOUT OF TYPICAL INSTALLATIONS 11

This manual has been divided into two parts:

4 Pipelines Parallel to Electricity Transmission Lines

The following publications are related to the content of this manual:

MMBW Safety in Construction Work Near Overhead Power Lines.

AIEE Committee Voltage Gradients Through the Ground Under Fault

AS 3000, Part 1-1976 Wiring Methods (SAA Wiring Rules).

AS 1768 - 1975 Manual on Lightning Protection.

AGA Mutual Design Consideration for Overhead AC Transmission Lines

The terms used in this publication are defined as follows:

'TCA' - Australian Telecommunications Commission (known as Telecom Australia).

'Telecommunication' - the transmission of speech, analogue and digital information, excluding

• 'Medium Voltage' - up to 650V

• 'High Voltage' - between 650V and 66,000V (66 kV)

• 'Extra High Voltage' - above 66 kV

4 PIPELINES PARALLEL TO ELECTRICITY TRANSMISSION LINES

5.2 CONSTRUCTION AND OPERATION

6 ELECTRICAL SERVICES IN A COMMON TRENCH

7.2 CONSTRUCTION AND MAINTENANCE

8.2 CONSTRUCTION AND MAINTENANCE

9.2 CONSTRUCTION AND MAINTENANCE

PART II - PROCEDURES AND PRACTICES

INSTRUCTIONS FOR THE USE OF:

4 PIPELINES PARALLEL TO ELECTRICITY TRANSMISSION LINES 12

4.1 THE NATURE OF THE HAZARD 12

4.2 PROCEDURES TO BE FOLLOWED 13

5.1 EFFECTS OF LIGHTNING 20

5.2 PRINCIPLES OF PROTECTION 21

5.3 PROCEDURES TO BE FOLLOWED 21

6 ELECTRICAL SERVICES IN A COMMON TRENCH 23

6.1 NEED FOR SHARING TRENCHES 23

6.2 SERVICES THAT CAN BE INSTALLED IN A COMMON TRENCH 23

6.3 WORK CO-ORDINATION AND RESPONSIBILITIES 24

6.5 PROCEDURE FOR LAYING OF CABLES 27

6.6 PROCEDURE FOR INSTALLATION OF SIGNAL PITS AND CONDUITS 27

6.7 SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS 28

7 ELECTRONIC/PROCESS CONTROL EQUIPMENT 31

7.1 HARDWIRED EQUIPMENT 31

7.2 TELECOMMUNICATION FACILITIES 32

7.3 TELEMETRY FACILITIES 36

8.1 METHODS OF SEPARATION 45

8.2 PROCEDURES TO BE FOLLOWED 48

9 SPECIAL EQUIPMENT EARTHING OF INSTRUMENTATION SYSTEMS 54

9.2 MAGNETIC FLOW METERS 54

9.3 INSTRUMENTATION IN EARTH AND ROCK FILLED DAMS 55

10.1 DC POWER SUPPLY ARRANGEMENTS 57

10.2 POWER SUPPLY INSTALLATIONS 58

10.3 DC POWER SUPPLY REQUIREMENTS 59