Testing and Commissioning
Commissioning substation busbars in an efficient and modern way
The commissioning procedure of substation busbars for differential protection and other busbar protection schemes involves a large number of input and output circuits that require a verification check in both the primary and secondary circuits. This large amount of data… Read more
Jun 13, 2017 | By Edvard Csanyi
High Voltage
Generation of high voltages in the lab (AC/DC, switching and lightning impulse)
Benjamin Franklin – The man who dared to fly his kite in a thunder storm! In this technical article laboratory tests and test equipment needed to assess the performance of insulating materials and equipment are discussed. Laboratory testing attempts to… Read more
May 29, 2017 | By Edvard Csanyi
Industrial Automation
PLC power supply and safety (emergency) circuits requirements
The source for a PLC power supply is generally single-phase and 120 or 240 VAC. If the controller is installed in an enclosure, the two power leads (L1 hot and L2 common) normally enter the enclosure through the top part… Read more
Mar 15, 2017 | By Edvard Csanyi
Maintenance
Performing power factor test on dry-type transformer during commissioning
The power factor test is a maintenance test used to determine the insulation system dielectric power loss by measuring the power angle between an applied AC voltage and the resultant current. Power factor is defined as the ratio of the… Read more
Mar 01, 2017 | By Edvard Csanyi
Low Voltage
Measurement of N–PE loop resistance in TN, TT and IT systems
Up-to-date test instruments, with built in modern electronics, can measure loop resistance even between the neutral N and protection PE conductors in spite of possible high currents in the neutral conductor. The current, which is driven by phase voltages through… Read more
Feb 24, 2017 | By Edvard Csanyi
Cables
Guidelines for high potential (Hi-Pot) DC testing of medium voltage cables
This technical article provides general guidelines for high potential “Hi-Pot” DC testing of MV power cables. All tests made following cable installation and during the warranty period must be performed in accordance with the applicable specifications. Testing should be performed… Read more
Feb 20, 2017 | By Edvard Csanyi
Energy and Power
The easiest way to measure ground resistance using clamp meter, but be carefull!
The ground clamp meter / tester is an effective and time-saving tool when used correctly because the user does not have to disconnect the ground system to make a measurement or place probes in the ground. The method is based… Read more
Feb 06, 2017 | By Edvard Csanyi
Maintenance
Transformer exterior inspection and tests you MUST perform periodically
Periodic transformer exterior inspection (visual) reveals important condition information. For example, valves positioned incorrectly, plugged radiators, stuck temperature indicator and level gauges, and noisy oil pumps or fans. Oil leaks can often be seen which indicate a potential for oil… Read more
Jan 25, 2017 | By Edvard Csanyi
Protection
Commissioning of protection relays using test equipment and software
Commissioning and maintenance With numerical protection relays commissioning and maintenance has become far less complicated as a result of the information provided by the devices as well as the integrated self-monitoring. The information provided here is restricted to general notes… Read more
Jan 16, 2017 | By Edvard Csanyi
Energy and Power
Troubleshooting dead circuit by testing continuity with disconnected supply
Dead circuit testing is testing performed with the power disconnected from the circuit. The main benefit of disconnecting power supply while tests with an external energy source are performed is to eliminate hazardous risks to the environment or the person… Read more
Nov 28, 2016 | By Edvard Csanyi
Energy and Power
3 good ways to improve earth electrode resistance
When you find that your earth electrode resistance is not low enough, there are several ways you can improve it: Lengthen the earth electrode in the earth Use multiple rods Treat the soil As you might suspect, driving a longer… Read more
Nov 25, 2016 | By Edvard Csanyi
High Voltage
High voltage station – Design, construction and commissioning process
The development of a high-voltage (HV) substation is a massive multidisciplinary undertaking. Recent trends in utilities have heavily favored sourcing the design and construction of HV stations through EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction) or turnkey contracts. Regardless of the procurement… Read more
Nov 11, 2016 | By Edvard Csanyi
Energy and Power
Using Megger tester for these 3 types of insulation resistance tests
You know that good insulation has high resistance and poor insulation relatively low resistance. The actual resistance values can be higher or lower, depending upon such factors as the temperature or moisture content of the insulation (resistance decreases in temperature… Read more
Nov 04, 2016 | By Edvard Csanyi
Industrial Automation
3 easy measures for a good PLC system maintenance
Why need for PLC system maintenance when they are designed to be easy to maintain and to ensure trouble-free operation? Well, several maintenance aspects should be considered once the system is in place and operational. Certain maintenance measures, if performed… Read more
Nov 02, 2016 | By Edvard Csanyi
Industrial Automation
5 good methods to apply for successful PLC troubleshooting
PLC troubleshooting can be conducted through many approaches, with the engineer’s knowledge being a crucial factor in effectively resolving these issues; hence, five methods have been established. When we speak about PLC troubleshooting, maintaining an inventory of replacement components is… Read more
Oct 19, 2016 | By Edvard Csanyi
