Electricity Today Issue 4 Volume 17, 2005

ET_4_2005 6/3/05 10:41 AM Page 1

A look at the upcoming PES IEEE General Meeting

see page 5

ISSUE 4 Volume 17, 2005

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGIES: Protection & Performance

PUBLICATION MAIL AGREEMENT # 40051146 Electrical Buyer’s Guides, Forums, On-Line Magazines, Industry News, Job Postings, www.electricityforum.com Electrical Store, Industry Links ET_4_2005 6/3/0510:41AMPage2 CONNECTING Anderson CONNECTING of highperformance inhibitorcompounds: Inhibox ® and Fargo

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Volume 17, Issue 4, 2005 46 45,46 41 42 38 38 34 25 20 39 39 8 6 5 Canada’s windpowercapacityjumpsalmost25percent Getting fixedandmobiledatafromoneinfrastructure IEEE PESGeneralMeetinghassomethingforeveryone By PaulEichenberg,RichardPickeringandSandraSmith,RONDARInc. Protecting vitalcommunicationsfromcyberattack Maximizing theperformanceofethernetmedia Figure outitssafetylevelbeforeanythingelse! Food forthoughtatthePowerIndustryForum Don’t neglectmaintainingyourtransformers Fund bringspublic,privatesectorstogether ‘DC Tie’ electricalpowertransfersbetween A guideforpowerfactortestingof PRODUCTS AND SERVICES SHOWCASE PRODUCTS ANDSERVICES By DeannaVincent, MicrowaveDataSystems By BobLounsbury, RockwellAutomation in thisissue TRANSFORMER MAINTENANCE Metering programapplauded to developpowergeneration Mexico, Texas gridsapproved in highnoiseenvironments & distributiontransformers By Tony McGrail,DobleEngineering By RichardO.Babcock,Megger with serialencryption THE HUMANFACTOR NEW TECHNOLOGIES Transformer tripped? ADVERTISERS INDEX ADVERTISERS SPECIAL PREVIEW INDUSTRY NEWS By BobFesmire By DonHorne By DonHorne 3 ET_4_2005 6/3/05 10:41 AM Page 4

editorial board

BRUCE CAMPBELL, LL.B., Independent Electricity Market Operator (IMO) Mr. Campbell is responsible for business development, regulatory affairs, corporate relations and communications, and legal affairs at the IMO. He has extensive background within the industry and, in particular, acted as legal counsel in electricity planning, facility approval and rate proceedings throughout his career in private practice.

ED DE PALEZIEUX, Alberta Electric System Operator (AESO) Mr. de Palezieux is Vice-President of the Customer and Communication Services at AESO. the Alberta Electric System Operator. Under his leadership the team develops and delivers a variety of services, BRUCE CAMPBELL ED DE PALEZIEUX products and business communications for market and transmission system customers. Among the key corporate objectives delivered by the team are: new customer enrollment, transmission system access, corporate communications, customer education and stakeholder relations.

BOB FESMIRE, ABB Bob Fesmire is a communications manager in ABB's Power Technologies division. He writes regularly on a range of power industry topics including T&D, IT systems, and policy issues. He is based in Santa Clara, California.

CHARLIE MACALUSO, Electricity Distributor's Association Mr. Macaluso has more than 20 years experience in the electricity industry. As the CEO of the EDA, Mr. Macaluso spearheaded the reform of the EDA to meet the emerging competitive electricity marketplace, and positioned the EDA as the voice of Ontario's local electricity distributors, the publicly and privately owned companies that safely and reliably deliver electricity to over four million Ontario homes, businesses, and public BOB FESMIRE CHARLIE MACALUSO institutions.

SCOTT ROUSE, CIPEC Chairman Scott Rouse is a strong advocate for proactive energy solutions. He has achieved North American recognition for developing an energy efficiency program that won Canadian and US EPA Climate Protection Awards through practical and proven solutions. As a published author, Scott has been called to be a keynote speaker across the continent for numerous organizations including the ACEEE, IEEE, EPRI, and Combustion Canada. Scott currently serves as Chair of the Canadian Industry Program for Energy Conservation (CIPEC) - Energy Manager Network and is a professional engineer, holds an M.B.A. and is also a Certified Energy Manager.

WELCOME DAVID W. MONCUR, P.ENG., M. Naqvi & Assoc. We welcome David W. Moncur to our editorial board. Mr. Moncur has 29 years of electrical maintenance experience ranging from high voltage installations to CNC computer applications, and has conducted an SCOTT ROUSE analysis of more than 60,000 various electrical failures involving all types and manner of equipment. Mr. Moncur has chaired a Canadian Standards Association committee and the EASA Ontario Chapter CSA Liaison Committee, and is a Past President of the Windsor Construction Association.

4 Electricity Today Issue 8, 2005 ET_4_2005 6/3/05 10:41 AM Page 5

SPECIAL PREVIEW

IEEE PES GENERAL MEETING HAS SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE By Don Horne

The theme for this year’s Power Engineering Society’s General Meeting is “Meeting the World’s Energy Needs Through Innovation & Technology”, examining policy, infrastructure and workforce issues on an international level. Set against the backdrop of the city Delegates attending an IEEE conference in Las Vegas this year. by the bay, San Francisco, California, the June 12-16 conference will provide dele- viduals who will be steering PES into the scheduled for each day of the conference, gates with the opportunity to participate future, and to discuss your ideas and con- with additional meetings scheduled for in many high-quality technical sessions cerns with them before elections are held the Saturday and Sunday preceding the and tours, committee meetings, network- later in the year. meeting. ing opportunities and more. In addition, The always popular Awards Numerous innovative and technical special student events and entertaining Luncheon will be held on Tuesday, tours have been planned for those who companion activities are planned Noon-2 p.m. in the Grand Ballroom, have registered for one-day or the full throughout the week. where IEEE and PES award winners are conference. Conference registration, major lun- honored for their outstanding achieve- The 2005 Showcase of Innovation cheons, receptions and most other events ments. runs from Sunday through to Thursday, will be held at the San Francisco Hilton Technical panel and paper sessions with manned booths from area industries Hotel, along with the majority of the are scheduled each day of the confer- featuring new and upcoming electrical technical sessions and committee meet- ence, from Monday through to Thursday, power products and services; in particu- ings. Other sessions and meetings are with tutorials scheduled on Friday. The lar, those on the cutting edge of the planned in the nearby Westin St. Francis. tracks to be addressed at this meeting are: industry. Displays of literature and mate- The General Membership Meeting is ¥ Understanding and Responding to rial about PES programs and future meet- slated for Monday, June 13 at 8 a.m. in System-Wide Events; ings, and a booth devoted to IEEE mem- the Hilton’s Grand Ballroom. IEEE ¥ Securing New Sources of Energy; bership, products and publications are Power Engineering Society President ¥ Improving Reliability and Power available near the registration area. Hans B. Püttgen will provide an Quality; The IEEE Power Engineering overview of PES accomplishments over ¥ Using Innovative Measurement Society is offering a one-day short course the past year and he will touch on the and Control Techniques to Improve in Power Systems Basics for Non- Society’s objectives and agenda for this Customer Service; and Engineering Professionals on Thursday. year. There follows an open Q&A ses- ¥ Surviving New Markets and New Policy makers, regulatory and energy sion, which will allow members to ask Structures. agency leaders, power marketers and Dr. Püttgen and other Governing Board Please check back for the specific brokers, and those in the legal profession members to discuss specific issues. schedule of meetings, presenters and pre- who deal with energy issues are encour- A plenary session - led by Dr. sentation titles. aged to attend this short course. The Püttgen - will commence at 9 a.m. imme- The Power Engineering Education course provides non-engineering profes- diately following the General Committee will present nine full-day and sionals who work within the power Membership Meeting in the Grand half-day tutorials during the meeting. industry a better understanding of elec- Ballroom. This year’s theme will provide Full or one-day conference registration is tric power systems, planning, operations the framework as the speakers address required in order to attend any of these and regulatory frameworks, enhancing policy, infrastructure and workforce courses, at a cost of $150 each (in addi- communication with engineers and deci- issues facing the international electric tion to the conference registration fee). sion-making capabilities. Concepts are energy industry. A feature of the PES General explained in simple-to-understand terms, Candidates for 2006-2007 PES Meeting technical Program is the Poster and conference registration is not offices and Division VII Director will be Session, with all poster session papers required to attend. available during the hours of the Poster presented at a combined session on The General Meeting runs from June Session to members individually. It is a Monday from 5-7 p.m. in the Grand 12-16 and is open to all IEEE members. great opportunity to meet with the indi- Ballroom. Committee meetings are

Electricity Today Issue 4, 2005 5 ET_4_2005 6/3/05 10:41 AM Page 6

NEW TECHNOLOGIES

GETTING FIXED AND MOBILE DATA FROM ONE INFRASTRUCTURE By Deanna Vincent, Microwave Data Systems Deregulation and consolidation structure is concerned. means spending more time, energy and among energy companies around the Relying on a public network for crit- money to accomplish the job. world means doing more with less in a ical communications in this situation Empowering the field force by wire- dramatically competitive environment. would have been disastrous and would lessly extending an organization’s net- Pairing new systems with existing infra- have guaranteed utilities the same fate as work can increase productivity, improve structure and combining and mobilizing the public - no way to communicate. This efficiency and reduce costs in several large field forces are just some of the occurred at exactly the time when com- ways. challenges that exist. munications were needed the most. And Giving your field crew the ability to Some leading-edge electric utilities because private networks were in place, input information as they receive it, also are using the same private wireless infra- utilities were able to continue communi- means the most current and updated structure for fixed automation and the cating and restore power in a matter of information is entering the system as it mobile computing needs of their field hours for most customers. happens. Paper work isn’t being turned in service operations. Accessing data and information at the end of the day for data entry in the The use of industrial wireless net- without cable and wire means you have next 24-plus hours. works for substation and distribution the ability to monitor and control data A wireless solution that enables automation, as well as supervisory con- and make critical decisions when com- automatic vehicle location (AVL) using trol and data acquisition (SCADA) sys- munications are cut off by other means, global positioning system (GPS) not only tems is accepted practice in the electric such as downed power lines during a means more efficient, but safer opera- utility industry. Radio modems help storm. tions as well. monitor demand overtime and overheat- A private wireless network also The ability to track and dispatch the ing, distribution, load balancing, pole top means lower cost of ownership since you field service team means that the most switching, isolation of faults and control have one-time, up-front set up and instal- efficient routing of vehicles and person- or reclosure switches. lation costs versus ongoing monthly nel occurs, saving time and getting cus- Now, the new mobile capability operating fees with a wired or cellular tomers back up and running as soon as allows critical data and applications, solution. possible. No more waiting for a response such as service needs and work orders, to While reliability, availability, and to find out which trucks are in the area. It be pushed out to the field. These utilities low cost of ownership are certainly sig- also keeps workers safer by no making see increased efficiency from their field nificant benefits of a private wireless net- unnecessary trips in an emergency when service teams and their customers see work, the greater benefit is the additional conditions are already chaotic. faster response times to service requests. bandwidth that allows integration with an In addition, productivity is increased The result? More efficient operations, existing infrastructure and accommo- by decreasing what is commonly referred lower costs, reduced response times and dates future growth as well as current to as “windshield time” - the amount of satisfied customers. applications such as voice, video and work-related time spent in a vehicle. The age of deregulation means cus- mobile data solutions. Having access to information from the tomers have choices. If you’re not oper- vehicle and the ability to plan ahead ating at maximum productivity and effi- ADVANTAGES OF A MOBILE means a significant reduction in trips for ciency and delivering service to cus- DATA SOLUTION either supplies or information. tomers in a timely fashion, you’re open- Imagine doing your job like you did ing the door for them to find another in the good old days - snail mail instead MULTIPLE APPLICATIONS, provider who is. That’s why so many of e-mail, filing cabinets instead of ONE INFRASTRUCTURE utilities are leveraging one private wire- shared directories, pad and paper instead The case for field force automation less infrastructure for field service dis- of a laptop. Needless to say, with every is an obvious one - increased efficiency, patch, outage restoration, and asset man- advancement made in technology our productivity, safety and customer satis- agement. lives have become more productive, faction. But which wireless solution more efficient. makes the most sense? BENEFITS OF A PRIVATE In many instances, however, the CDPD has already been - or is in the WIRELESS NETWORK field service teams are still doing their process of being - phased out and is The blackout that crippled the jobs much the same as they always have being replaced by next-generation cellu- Northeast and parts of Canada in August - relying on someone else to provide the lar technology. However, the ongoing, 2003 was proof that a private infrastruc- most accurate and up-to-date information monthly fees add up quickly presenting a ture is the only acceptable solution where that exists. The problem is that informa- the nation’s - and world’s - critical infra- tion isn’t always current, which often Continued on Page 23

6 Electricity Today Issue 4, 2005 ET_4_2005 6/3/05 10:41 AM Page 7

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NEW TECHNOLOGIES

MAXIMIZING THE PERFORMANCE OF ETHERNET MEDIA IN HIGH NOISE ENVIRONMENTS By Bob Lounsbury, Rockwell Automation

As Ethernet enters the control and automation arena, the performance becomes increasingly important. In control and automation applications, message response time is extremely critical. In addition, excessive jitter within the response time can be catastrophic to the reliability in control systems, where tight control loops are required. Residual and burst errors are the two primary types of errors that have a direct impact on the Figure 1 Typical Ethernet Industrial Channel response time. The two types of errors can be quantified by both inherent and external influences. Residual errors are burst errors to an caused by poorly designed and or acceptable level. Thus, matched physical layer and network by minimizing the components. Each component in the link errors in a control sys- will contribute to the overall perfor- tem the more applica- mance. Burst errors are the primary com- tions ethernet will be ponent of control jitter. Most burst errors capable of serving. are caused by events such as noise bursts common to the industrial environment. INTRODUCTION For example a contactor open/closing or This article a motor starting/stopping will produce describes the mecha- intermittent noise bursts that can couple nisms and parameters Figure 2 Common Mode Noise Burst into poorly designed networks and cor- within the transceiver, rupt data. Designing a system with magnetics, cable and emphasis on specific parameters can connector designs that influence their From a differential communications enhance the immunity to electrical noises performance in noise. Figure 1 is an systems perspective, an ideally balanced and will ultimately reduce response time example of a typical Industrial Ethernet network will be infinitely immune to and reduce response jitter. channel. This paper will quantify their common mode noise. This is a bold state- Common Mode Rejection (CMR) individual contribution in terms of error ment and, of course, this is only true if has a direct impact to the BER of a sys- rates. We will find that there are two the transceivers are designed to with- tem where noise is present in the envi- types of errors in a system residual errors stand infinite common mode offset. ronment. High CMR performance is and burst errors. The two error types, Networks that use transformers for accomplished by minimizing the unbal- burst and residual, contribute errors that coupling the energy on and off the net- ances in the link. In a system where the sum up to a total error rate that cause an work, help to eliminate the common CMR is poor, common mode noise volt- overall degradation to the system perfor- mode offset voltages through isolation. ages (burst and continuous) will appear mance. Excessive error rates will ulti- Further balancing is accomplished by as differential voltages that will degrade mately limit the potential applications for data encoding and scrambling tech- the signal to noise ratio of a communica- Ethernet. Each of the two error types niques. An example is Manchester tions system. Low signal to noise ratio affects the system in different ways. For encoding. X-OR-ing the data with clock has an inverse affect on the BER perfor- example, the residual errors will limit produces a transition rich signal called mance of a communications system. system performance but can, in some Manchester Encoding. This technique Minimizing the residual errors in a cases, be worked around since the errors inherently produces balanced data and is communications system will reduce the are present all the time. Burst errors will efficient from the standpoint that the message response time. Minimizing the cause random short interruptions in com- clock information is encoded and trans- burst errors in a system will reduce the munications. It is the burst errors that mitted with the data. jitter in the message response time. will cause intermittent machine shut Ethernet’s 10baseT and 100BaseT Therefore, the goal in any control net- downs and is perhaps the most difficult work is to minimize the residual and to isolate and correct. Continued on Page 11

8 Electricity Today Issue 4, 2005 ET_4_2005 6/3/05 10:41 AM Page 9

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NEW TECHNOLOGIES

Ethernet Continued from Page 8

systems are transformer-coupled networks. DeviceNet is a nontransformer, direct connect network. DeviceNet main- tains a 2.5 Volt bias on the differential Figure 3 Signaling Examples pair. CMR only matters if there is common mode noise. In a factory environ- CMR, the cable’s actual ment the noises presently span a wide CMR will have to be range of frequencies. In addition, there is correlated to the magni- a diverse range of noise coupling mecha- tude of errors under the nisms. Figure 4 is an example of some controlled test condi- common noise generating devices and tions. their corresponding frequency ranges. We must not forget that a device not only METHOD generates harmful fundamental frequen- Determining the CMR cies, it also generates harmonics that can value needed for indus- be just as disruptive to communications trial cables is a 3 step networks. The red bars indicate the addi- method that is tional range caused by the third harmon- described in the next ic. Figure 4 Noise Ranges of Common Industrial Machine paragraph. In this paper LCTL and CMR will be Devices. The first step in the used interchangeably. Each component process was to write a in a channel has a quantifiable level of environment has many different noise test CMR procedure and to measure the Common Mode Rejection (CMR). From generating devices that span a wide fre- CMR of the cables used in this study. the CMR and the common mode noise quency range. Their coupling mecha- This procedure provided a systematic voltage level, the differential voltage can nisms are either magnetic or electric field method for testing the cable to obtain be calculated using the relationship in or both. Isolation techniques from these consistent results from test lab to test lab Equation 1. fields are different for both. Products and test sample to test sample. The com- There are two voltages that will trav- designed for the industrial environment mon mode noise to differential mode must be subjected to some level of EMC noise voltage was then determined in the and EMF testing to determine the prod- second step of this process. The noise test - cmr Vdifferential=VCMnoise 10 ( component) uct’s ability to survive in these harsh was performed on each of the 4 pairs environments. One of the most critical within several cable samples. The ( 20 ) noise tests is Conducted Immunity. This method to be described later was used test uses a special coupling clamp to pro- with an oscilloscope and RF probe to Equation 1 Common Mode to Differential duce a uniform electric and magnetic measure the converted differential noise Conversion field from 150 KHz to 80 MHz. With voltage through a Balun. The final test respect to Figure 4, this test covers all was to measure the Bit Error Rate under el within the channel, 1) differential volt- except the Spread Spectrum (ISM) bands the same noise conditions. The results age and 2) common mode voltage. The in the 900 MHz and 2.4 GHz areas. The were then compared together and will be magnitude of the resultant differential interfering voltage levels for this test are presented in the following pages of this voltage is a function of the magnitude of typically 10Volts RMS. paper. the noise source, coupling, resultant In an industrial control network, the channel CMR and the insertion losses of cable typically spans from machine to MEASURING THE CMR OF A CABLE the channel. The magnitude of the com- machine interconnecting many control As mentioned in the previous sec- mon mode voltage is a function of the devices. The cable is physically the tion of this paper, the CMR of the cable magnitude of the noise source, coupling largest single device in the channel. As a was obtained using a detailed test proce- and Common Mode Attenuation (CMA) result, the cable has the ability to pickup dure. Using a Network Analyzer, the of each device in the channel. The com- coupled noises from adjacent conductors CMR and Attenuation of the BALUNS mon mode voltage will be converted to a and, in addition, may act as an antenna to determined. The data will be used in the differential voltage in each device; as a receive and/or radiate RF noises. final cable CMR value. Finally the result, each device will then contribute to Therefore, the focus of this research is cable’s CMR and Attenuation is mea- the resultant differential voltage within ultimately to determine the level of CMR sured. This process was automated to fur- the channel. performance needed for industrial ether- As mentioned before, the factory net cables. To determine the required Continued on Page 12

Electricity Today Issue 4, 2005 11 ET_4_2005 6/3/05 9:33 AM Page 12

NEW TECHNOLOGIES

Equation 2 CMR of a Cable LCTL=LCTL_Raw-Balun_CMR - Balun_Differential_Attenuation - (Cable_Attenuation_Raw - Balun_Differential_Attenuation) 22

Figure 5 CMR Test Fixture Schematic Ethernet Continued from Page 11

ther enhance the repeatability of the test. The CMR and Attenuation is measured from 772 KHz to 100 MHz. The CMR of the cable is obtained from the Network Analyzer’s raw data and the following relationship as defined in Equation 2 The measurements were performed at two different labs (A and B.) The following graphs will show an excellent correlation between the two labs Figure 6 and Figure 7. The CMR measurements were within 1 dB between the two labs.

Figure 6 CMR Test Results Lab A MEASURING THE COMMON MODE TO DIFFERENTIAL NOISE CONVERSION All Industrial control equipment must be certified, compliant to relevant industrial environmental noise standards. Perhaps the most comprehensive industrial standards and testing is the European Union’s, CE (European Commission) testing. The European Union requires that all industrial control products be tested in accordance with IEC61000-4-6 (Conducted Immunity). The IEC standard defines the test configuration and methods for conducting the tests. This specific test is a simulation of potential noise coupling modes at levels

Figure 7 CMR Test Results Lab B Continued on Page 15

12 Electricity Today Issue 4, 2005 ET_4_2005 6/3/05 9:33 AM Page 13

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Ethernet in Figure 9 couples noises Continued from Page 12 to the system’s communications, power and control cabling. The goal of the experi- ment was to determine if there is correlation between the cable’s CMR and the differential voltage produced by the common mode coupled voltages. This is the second step in determining the relationship between CMR and BER perfor- Figure 8 IEC 61000-4-6 EM Automated Figure 9 IEC 61000-4-6 EM Clamp mance of the cable system. Test Fixture The test cables were ter- minated the same way as common in harsh in the previous CMR testing (Figure 10.) industrial environ- The noise coupling tests were performed ments. Figure 8 twice, once with a oscilloscope and sec- and Figure 9 are ond with a RF probe, for differential volt- examples of an age measurement. The graph in Figure 11 automated IEC has both the coupled differential voltage test system used versus frequency and the CMR test for compliance results from the previous test. Note that a testing to the IEC dual scale was used for the graph in standards. The Figure 11 to help separate the two curves. EM (Electro A polynomial regression line fit was Magnetic) clamp added to reveal the performance trend. Figure 10 Test Fixture Schematic The graphs in Figure 11 and Figure 12 indicate there is a correlation between the CMR performance and the Common Mode to differential voltage conversion when noise is coupled to the cable. The other pairs in the cable exhibited the same behavior.

Figure 11 Differential Coupled Voltage EM Clamp Oscilloscope

Figure 13 Error Model for Ethernet systems.

MEASURING THE BER PERFORMANCE In the third and last phase of the investigation, the BER versus Noise was quantified. A set of transceivers is used to encode and decode (4B/5B) the data on and off the cable under test. In addition, the transceivers provide scrambling of Figure 12 Differential Coupled Voltage EM Clamp RF Probe Continued on Page 17

Electricity Today Issue 4, 2005 15 ET_4_2005 6/3/05 9:33 AM Page 16

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Reduced downtime. Magna offers: Arc-resistant retrofits can Heavy duty doors with generally be done in less • Power system arc flash studies multiple hinges and time than switchgear • Circuit breaker retrofits extra strength locking replacements. • Relay protection upgrades devices help ensure the • NETA certified technicians door will not open • 24-hour emergency service under extreme force. nation-wide

Magna Electric T:1-877-955-8131 www.magnaelectric.com Corporation F: (306) 955-9181 851 - 58th Street East, Saskatoon SK Regina, SK Winnipeg, MB North Bay, ON Mobile, AL S7K 6X5 Edmonton, AB Calgary, AB Vancouver, BC Burlington, ON ET_4_2005 6/3/05 9:33 AM Page 17

NEW TECHNOLOGIES

Ethernet Continued from Page 15

the data and MLT3 signaling on the wire. Even though ethernet traffic is packet in nature, a greater resolution on BER can be determined by performing error checking on a bit level. Therefore, a continuous 7 bit pseudo random data stream was used for the following BER measurements. There are other factors that affect the error performance in a channel. For example, the receiver in a channel does not respond below a differential Voltage of 50mV (receivers make use of adaptive filters to enhance data recovery). The adaptive filter not only helps to adapt the receiver to the length of the cable and cable characteristics, it also helps in enhancing the Signal to Noise performance by changing the bandwidth of the receiver. Two conditions must be Figure 16 Power Levels for 0 BER in Noise met before a system can begin to take errors. The noise must exceed the receiv- degraded enough to increase the proba- Figure 13. er’s threshold and the S/N ratio must be bility of an error occurring as shown in COMPARING THE RESULTS TO THE BER PERFORMANCE; Figure 14 shows the relationship of BER versus frequency on one scale and the CMR (LCTL) versus frequency on another scale. Note that as shown by the error rate, as the CMR approaches 40 dB the cable system is more susceptible common mode noise. This performance was observed on several cables as shown in Figure 14 and Figure 15. What is noted is the first sample in Figure 14 has a worse case CMR of Ð40dB and has a BER of 12%. The second sample in Figure 15 has a worse case CMR of 32dB at which the BER is Figure 14 BER versus CMR of a Ethernet Cable 8%. The difference between the two tests (CMR and BER) is in the coupling methods. In the CMR testing the energy is coupled directly on to the cable through BALUNS. In the BER test, the noise is coupled through the cable jackets using the EM (Electro Magnetic) clamp. Both methods couple the energy onto the cable common mode. It is theorized that the cable jacket provides some dielectric path to enhance or detract from the cables ability to reject noise. Therefore, a jacket can have a positive influence on the performance in noise by providing physical separation from a noise conducting structures. The graphs do show

Figure 15 CMR versus BER Sample 2 Continued on Page 18

Electricity Today Issue 4, 2005 17 ET_4_2005 6/3/05 9:33 AM Page 18

NEW TECHNOLOGIES

Ethernet Continued from Page 17

that there is an inverse relationship between the CMR performance and the susceptibility to noise (susceptibility to noise increases as the CMR performance decreases). Other methods were tried in measuring a cable’s ability to pass data in noise. The automated testing was configured to determine the noise power level for a zero error rate. By iteratively reducing the power until the BER analyzer’s error count is zero and then recording the power level, the power level (dBm) versus frequency was obtained. This process was repeated for each frequency point from 150KHz to 100 MHz. Again the measured CMR was plotted on the same Figure 17 CMR System Budget graph (different scale) with the power level for zero errors. Once again the trend analysis shows the same profile. The As Ethernet moves into the Industrial budget below in the system still falls 5.25 absolute power levels cannot be com- Control arena, the system will need to be dB short of the 50 mV receiver thresh- pared because of the difference in the hardened to withstand the harsh environ- olds. The values in were chosen based on methods. ments both from a materials and noise data sheets and desired performance. For performance perspective. Poor CMR per- example, the transformers are available CONCLUSION formance will manifest itself in the form with 60dB CMR, cables are not readily The test results suggest that there is of burst errors when noise is present. available with 45 dB and better CMR sufficient evidence that the CMR is relat- This paper concludes that there is a need values. The connectors were estimated at ed to the common mode differential volt- for a CMR specification for ethernet 60 dB. Connectors are a minor influence age conversion of a cable system. In industrial control cables. Early on testing in the channel, however they cannot be addition, the test results indicate there is indicated that the CMR should be -35 dB ignored. a reasonable relationship between the as indicated in the error versus interfer- cable CMR and the system BER perfor- ence level graph (Figure 16). To achieve mance. This is an important relationship error free traffic, the interference power as the system performance can be pre- levels had to be decreased by as much as dicted based on a given CMR parameter. 35 dB. Based on the latest testing, the value should be on the order of Ð45 dB to Ð55 dB. The following analysis in and the associated shows a budget for each component in a typical industrial ethernet channel. Each component in the channel contributes to the overall CMR performance. The budget assigns CMR values to each component. Taking the 45 dB CMR cable specification and Table 1 Proposed CMR System Budget inserting it into the

18 Electricity Today Issue 4, 2005 ET_4_2005 6/3/05 9:33 AM Page 19

NEW TECHNOLOGIES

FERC SYNDICATES WEB CONTENT TO FACILITATE INFORMATION SHARING By Don Horne

The U.S. Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) cific dockets and projects pending at FERC. eSubscription implemented Really Simple Syndication (RSS) on its website does require that users electronically register with a valid recently, and in doing so, the Commission joined the ranks of email while RSS does not. a growing number of federal agencies taking advantage of RSS Rich Site Summary (RSS) or Really Simple Syndication technology to reach more users and to quickly distribute is a technology used to distribute a website’s content to users important content. RSS is commonly used on blogs and many in real time. news organization websites. RSS is an easy way to gather a wide variety of content in Over 97 percent of those surveyed on the Commission’s one place on your computer. website indicated that they wanted RSS implemented. Information is delivered to your news aggregator or feed The Commission is reader, freeing you from having to visit a website multiple syndicating only the times a day to find content. content of the website Special browser-like applications called news aggregators that falls under and feed readers are required to use RSS feeds. Each aggrega- “What’s New at tor and feed reader should have more detailed instructions on FERC”, which includes how to set up feeds. Feed readers also provide the flexibility the most important to adjust how often the reader checks for new items in the RSS news, decisions and feeds to which the individual subscribes. ET Rather than searching events. Depending on dozens of energy the success of the initial news feed, the websites for relevant Commission may establish news feeds PDV-100 OPTIMA information several times for electric, natural gas, Distribution Class LNG and other items. each day, RSS enables The Commission will Polymer Surge Arrester also be working with users to automatically the Department of aggregate all relevant Energy, NERC, RTOs, ISOs and State and content from numerous international energy organizations to IEEE C62.11 Tested websites on their own encourage the use of RSS news feeds. RSS computer desktops. may be a more efficient tool to help regulators, Joining our full line of energy companies, Polymer Arresters, this new Heavy-Duty financial analysts, the Arrester enhances performance and press and others aggre- offers you many benefits: gate information and • Improved Isolator Reliability Down to 1 AMP share it with a wider • ANSI Heavy-Duty Rated audience. Rather than • New Universal Temporary Overvoltage searching dozens of • Field-tested Sealing System energy websites for rel- HUBBELL CANADA LP evant information several times each day, RSS enables users to 870 Brock Road South • Pickering, ON L1W 1Z8 automatically aggregate all relevant content from numerous Phone: (905) 839-1138 • Fax: (905) 839-6353 www.hubbellpowersystems.ca websites on their own computer desktops. POWER SYSTEMS,INC. HUBBELL POWER SYSTEMS, INC. RSS is not the same thing as the Commission’s 210 N. Allen • Centralia, Mo 65240 eSubscription application. The Commission’s RSS feed will Phone: (573) 682-5521 • Fax: (573) 682-8714 only provide users with the most important content of the HUBBELL DE MEXICO, S.A. DE.. CV Av. Coyoacan No. 1051 • Col. Del Valle • 03100 Mexico, D.F. FERC website that falls under “What’s New at FERC”. Phone: (525) 575-2022 • Fax: (525) 559-8626 eSubscription is ideal for tracking all correspondence for spe-

Electricity Today Issue 4, 2005 19 ET_4_2005 6/3/05 9:33 AM Page 20

TRANSFORMER MAINTENANCE

A GUIDE FOR POWER FACTOR TESTING OF POWER & DISTRIBUTION TRANSFORMERS By Richard O. Babcock, Megger

The transformer is probably one of ing the voltage, or cur- the most useful electrical devices ever rent, ratio. invented. It can raise or lower the voltage Delta Connection: or current in an ac circuit, it can isolate So connected that the circuits from each other, and it can windings of a three-phase increase or decrease the apparent value transformer (or the wind- of a capacitor, an inductor, or a resistor. ings for the same rated Furthermore, the transformer enables us voltage of single-phase to transmit electrical energy over great transformers associated distances and to distribute it safely in fac- in a three-phase bank) are tories and homes. Transformers are connected in series to extensively used in electric power sys- form a closed circuit. tems to transfer power by electromagnet- Y (or Wye) Connec- ic induction between circuits at the same tion: So connected that frequency, usually with changed values one end of each of the of voltage and current. windings of a polyphase Power factor testing is an effective transformer (or of each of method to detect and help isolate condi- the windings for the same tions such as moisture, carbonization, rated voltage of single- contamination in bushings, windings and phase transformers asso- liquid insulation. In addition to power ciated in a polyphase factor testing, transformer excitation cur- bank) is connected to a rent measurements will help detect wind- common point (the neu- The Delta Connection is so connected that the windings of a ing and core problems. tral point) and other end three-phase transformer are connected in series to form a to its appropriate line ter- closed circuit DEFINITIONS minal. Step-Down Transformer: A trans- Zigzag Connection: former in which the power transfer is A polyphase transformer with Y-connect- - Never perform electrical tests of from the higher voltage source circuit to ed windings, each one of which is made any kind on a unit under vacuum. a lower voltage circuit. up of parts in which phase-displaced Flashovers can occur at voltages as low Step-Up transformer: A transformer voltages are induced. as 250 volts. in which the power transfer is from the Tertiary Winding: The third winding - If the transformer is equipped with lower voltage source circuit to a higher of the transformer and often provides the a load tap changer, set the unit to some voltage circuit. substation service voltage, or in the case step off of neutral. Some load tap chang- Autotransformer: A transformer in of a wye-wye connected transformer, it ers are designed with arrester type ele- which at least two windings have a com- prevents severe distortion of the line-to- ments that are not effectively shorted out mon section. neutral voltages. in the neutral position even with all the Load-Tap-Changing Transformer: A bushings shorted. transformer used to vary the voltage, or TWO-WINDING TRANSFORMERS - Connect a ground wire from the phase angle, or both, or a regulated cir- TEST CONNECTIONS test set to the transformer ground. cuit in steps by means of a device that For all transformer testing, including - Short all bushings of each winding connects different taps of tapped wind- spare transformers, ensure the following including the neutral of a wye-connected ing(s) without interrupting the load. safety conditions are observed: winding. The neutral ground must also be Excitation Current (No-Load - The transformer must be taken out removed. The shorting wire must not be Current): The current which flows in any of service and isolated from the power allowed to sag. winding used to excite the transformer system. - Refer to section 3, Table 3 in the when all other windings are open-circuit- - Ensure the transformer is properly Delta 2000 manual for test connections ed. grounded to the system ground. and the insulation tested. Tap (in a transformer): A connection - Before applying any voltage on the - Connect the high voltage lead to brought out of a winding at some point transformer, make sure that all bushing the high side bushings for tests 1, 2, and between its extremities, to permit chang- current transformers are shorted out. 3. Ensure that the high voltage cable

20 Electricity Today Issue 4, 2005 ET_4_2005 6/3/05 9:45 AM Page 21

TRANSFORMER MAINTENANCE

extends out away from the bushing. voltage such as 2.5kV or 10kV. - Connect the low voltage lead to the low voltage bush- - Correct the power factor readings of the transformer to ings. 200 C from the top oil temperature. (Refer to the chart for - For tests 5, 6 and 7, connect the high voltage lead from Temperature Correction Factors for Liquids, Transformers, the test set to the low voltage bushings of the transformer and and Regulators, Appendix D in the Delta 2000 manual). the low voltage lead from the test set to the high voltage bush- - Identify each set of readings of the transformer bushings ings. (Note) Test 5, 6 and 7 normally are not conducted unless with a serial number. Record manufacture, type or model and there appears to be a problem with tests results obtained in other nameplate ratings. Especially be aware to record name- tests 1, 2 and 3. plate C1 capacitance and power factor values if available. - Individual tests should be performed on each bushing. Correct the power factor readings on the bushings to 200 C Bushings equipped with a potential/test tap should have the using the ambient temperature. (Refer to the chart for Bushing UST test performed and the GST hot collar test on those with- Temperature Correction Factors in Appendix D in the Delta out test taps. Transformer windings must remain shorted for all 2000 manual). bushing tests. Refer to the APPLICATION GUIDE FOR POWER FACTOR TESTING OF BUSHINGS. TEST RESULTS - For transformers that have wye-wye configuration, and Power factor results should always be compared to man- the neutrals internally cannot be separated, short the high volt- ufacturers’ tests, or to prior test results if available. It is impos- age bushings and the low voltage bushings together and per- sible to set maximum power factor limits within which all form a GST test. Test voltage should be suitable for the rating transformers are acceptable, but units with readings above 1% of the low voltage winding. at 200C should be investigated. Bushings, if in poor condition, may have their losses masked by normal losses in the winding TEST PROCEDURE insulation Therefore, separate tests should be applied to them. For all power factor testing, the more information you Increased power factor values, in comparison with a pre- record at the time of testing will ensure the best comparison of vious test or tests on identical apparatus, may indicate some results at the next routine test. Test data should be compared to general condition such as contaminated oil. An increase in the nameplate data. If nameplate or factory readings are not available, compare the results of prior tests on the same transformer or results of similar tests on similar transformers. If at all possible, power factor and capacitance readings should be taken on new transformers. Field measurements of power-fac- Go infrared... tor and capacitance can differ from measurements made under without going in the red! the controlled conditions in the factory. Therefore, the power- New High factor and capacitance should be measured at the time of Resolution installation and used as a base to compare future measure- ThermaCAM® ments. Power factor testing is extremely sensitive to weather EX320 conditions. Tests should be conducted in favorable conditions Filter Facility whenever possible. All tests are performed at 2.5kV or 10kV. capacitors transformer scanned captured, If these values exceed the rating of the winding, test at or and avoided $200,000 slightly below the rating. an estimated cost averted. $500,000 - Follow the test sequence of the Two-Winding outage. Transformers Test Connections in Section 3 Table 3 of the Delta 2000 manual. Tests 1, 2 and 3 can be completed without a lead change. Record the results. ThermaCAM® ThermaCAM® - Test 4 is a calculation subtracting the capacitance and EX320 E25 watts results in test 2 from test 1. The results should compare with the UST measurement for the CHL insulation - Reverse the test leads for tests 5, 6 and 7. Test voltage should be at a level suitable for the secondary winding of the transformer. Record the results. ® E25 ThermaCAM CDN - Test 8 is a calculation by subtracting test 6 from test 5. $12,995 Results should compare with the UST measurement in test 7 for the CHL insulation. - Record all the nameplate information of the transformer. - Note any special or unusual test connections or condi- The NEW ThermaCAM® EX320 provides the same superior resolution as professional infrared cameras costing $50,000 tions. or more with zoom and professional measurement tools and - Record ambient temperature and relative humidity and a report capabilities. The ThermaCAM® E25 is the most afford- The Global Leader in Infrared Cameras general indication of weather conditions at the time of the test. able and feature-rich thermography camera in the world. Servicing Canada for 45 years 1 800 613 0507 - Record actual test voltage, current, watts, power factor CONTACT FLIR SYSTEMS FOR A FREE DEMO. www.flir.ca and capacitance. Correct current and watts to a standard test

Electricity Today Issue 4, 2005 21 ET_4_2005 6/3/05 9:45 AM Page 22

TRANSFORMER MAINTENANCE

both power factor and capacitance indi- Phase High Side Wye and cates that contamination is likely to be Three Phase High Side Delta water. When the insulating liquid is being transformers. filtered or otherwise treated, repeated - Single Phase: The transformer measurements on windings and liquid is energized from the H1-H2 will usually show whether good general bushings. Test connections can conditions are being restored. be reversed for additional data, Oil oxidation and consequent sludg- but test results should be the ing conditions have a marked effect on same. H2 may also be designat- the power factors of transformer wind- ed as H0. ings. After such a condition has been - Wye Ð Wye: Observe that the remedied, (flushing down or other treat- ground wire is removed from ment) power factor measurements are the H0 bushing for testing, but valuable in determining if the sludge remains connected on the X0 removal has been effective. bushing. Measurements on individual windings may vary due to differences in insu- TEST PROCEDURE lation materials and arrangements. - Test voltages should be as However, large differences may indicate high as possible without localized deterioration or damage. exceeding the rating of the Careful consideration of the mea- line-to-line voltages on delta surements on different combinations of connected transformers and windings should show in which particu- line-to-ground on wye connect- lar path the trouble lies; for example, if a ed transformers. measurement between two windings has Compare test results to previous tests on the same - Test voltage should always be a high power factor, and the measure- transformer. the same as prior tests. ments between each winding and ground, - All transformer excitation with the remaining winding guarded, To power factor test the autotrans- current tests are conducted in the UST gives a normal reading, then the trouble former, both primary and secondary test mode. lies between the windings, perhaps in an bushings are shorted together and the ter- - For routine testing, transformers insulating cylinder. tiary bushings are shorted to each other. with load tap changers should have tests The autotransformer is then tested as a performed in at least one raise and one THREE-WINDING TRANSFORMERS two winding transformer. Individual tests lower position off of neutral. The no-load Testing of three-winding transform- should be performed on each bushing if tap changer should be in the normal in ers is performed in the same manor as they are equipped with a test tap. service position. two-winding transformers with the addi- - For new transformers, excitation tional tests of the tertiary winding. TRANSFORMER EXCITATION tests should be performed in every tap In some cases, transformers are con- CURRENT TESTS position for both the load and no-load tap structed so that the interwindings are Transformer excitation current tests changers. shielded by a grounded electrostatic are helpful in determining possible wind- - The more information that is shield or a concentric-winding arrange- ing or core problems in transformers, recorded at the time of testing will ensure ment. This could provide test results that even when ratio and winding resistance the best comparison of results at the next capacitance is almost non-existent or tests appear normal. Excitation tests routine test. even a negative power factor. The trans- should be conducted routinely along with - Record test voltage and current. former manufacturer should be contacted power factor testing. Corrections are not applied to trans- to verify the existence of a shield or a former excitation current tests. concentric-winding arrangement. TEST CONNECTIONS - Transformer excitation current TEST RESULTS AUTOTRANSFORMERS tests are performed on the high voltage Compare test results to previous In the design of an autotransformer, winding to minimize the excitation cur- tests on the same transformer, or to man- the secondary winding is actually part of rent. Problems in the low voltage wind- ufacturers’ data if available. Tests can the primary winding. For a given power ings will still be detected by this method. also be compared to similar type units. It output, an autotransformer is smaller and - The secondary windings are left is essential that identical test voltages be cheaper than a conventional transformer. floating with the exception of a wye sec- used for repeat tests on a transformer. This is particularly true if the ratio of the ondary. In this case, the X0 bushing Fluctuation in the test voltage will pro- incoming line voltage to outgoing line remains grounded as it is in normal ser- duce inconsistent current readings. Three voltage lies between 0.5 and 2. Generally vice. phase transformers should have the indi- all three-phase autotransformers have a - Refer to Section 3 Table 5 for test tertiary winding. connections for Single Phase, Three Continued on Page 24

22 Electricity Today Issue 4, 2005 ET_4_2005 6/3/05 9:45 AM Page 23

network and restrict data from users out- wireless infrastructure for both fixed and Infrastructure side of the network. mobile services enables substation and Continued from Page 6 distribution automation, and SCADA CONCLUSION systems, as well as field service dis- pricing model that is not included in Every industry is being forced to do patch, outage restoration and asset man- most budgets. And in the world we live more with less these days, and nowhere agement. in today, reliability issues associated is that more true than for electric utili- Empowering your field force by with using a public infrastructure exist— ties. Consolidation and deregulation in providing real-time information using a remember the blackout discussed earlier? the industry means mobilizing large field long-range, high-speed mobile data solu- Anyone on a cellular system was unable forces to keep up with customer demand tion means more efficient operations, to communicate. and maintain customer satisfaction. lower costs, reduced response time and Using a long-range, high-speed The ability to leverage one private satisfied customers. solution that supports fixed and mobile applications is the answer. Long range and high speed - with data rates up to 512 Kbps and a range of many miles - means less infrastructure needed in your wireless network, which translates into dramatically lower costs. In addition, a license-free 900 MHz radio means no licensing or frequency usage costs, and minimal costs associated with installation and setup in comparison to a wired network solution. Rugged, industrial-strength radios that are simple to install requiring virtu- ally no set up will mean little downtime and few disruptions in workflow. A solution that can withstand harsh elements such as cold, heat and the rough-and- tumble environment of a utility truck, is crucial to the success of a system. An Internet Protocol (IP)-enabled network allows users to take advantage of new applications such as voice and video as well. Voice over IP (VoIP) is an ideal application in an emergency situation or remote location when other means of communications are limited or non-existent. Video over IP is also growing in popularity for surveillance as a security feature. Some electric utilities are working to install cameras in vehicles to obtain slow-frame video for accident and incident reports, as well.

LAST BUT NOT LEAST… SECURITY Because electric utility networks are carrying mission critical data, the security of the network is paramount. An IP network comprised of an access point and remote radios that offer encryption, dynamic key rotation, provision lists, authentication, and a level of transmission security, such as frequency hopping spread spectrum, will provide the most secure network. In addition to building security measures into your wireless network, every organization should have an enterprise- level security plan in place to safeguard their corporate network. For example, a firewall can be implemented to protect a

Electricity Today Issue 4, 2005 23 ET_4_2005 6/3/05 9:45 AM Page 24

TRANSFORMER MAINTENANCE

Testing TEST PROCEDURE TEST PROCEDURE Continued from Page 22 - Record test results on the test form - Ensure the test set is securely for Miscellaneous Equipment grounded. vidual windings energized at both ends if Capacitance and Power Factor Tests, - Record all tests results. Power fac- the original test appears abnormal. located in Appendix C in the Delta 2000 tor tests should be corrected to ambient Transformer excitation current tests on manual. temperature. the high voltage winding should detect - Test voltages are at 10kV. If 10kV - Compare test results to prior tests problems in the secondary winding if exceeds the insulation rating, test at or on the same or similar equipment. they exist. Winding resistance testing in slightly below the insulation rating. addition to the excitation tests could be - For single phase units only one CURRENT TRANSFORMERS helpful in isolating either a core or wind- overall ground test is performed in the Current transformers are used for ing defect. UST mode. stepping down primary current for Test results on three phase trans- ammeters, wattmeters and for relaying. formers, especially wye-connected wind- TEST RESULTS Typical secondary current rating is 5 ings, could produce high but similar Power factor and capacitance results amperes. readings on two phases compared to the should be recorded in the same manner Current transformers have ratings third phase. This is the result of the low as for oil filled power transformers. for high voltage and extra high voltage phase being wound around the center leg Temperature correction should be to the application. The higher voltage classifi- of a three-legged core. The reluctance of top oil temperature. Compare test results cations can be oiled filled, dry type or the magnetic circuit is less for the center to previous tests or tests on similar units. porcelain construction. Current trans- leg of the core resulting in a lower charg- Additional bushing tests should be per- formers that are donut or window type ing current. formed if test results are suspect. are normally not tested for power factor. Tests on two bushing primary cur- SHUNT REACTORS POTENTIAL TRANSFORMERS rents transformers are performed by When electrical energy is transmit- Potential transformers are installed shorting the primary winding, grounding ted at extra high voltages, special prob- on power systems for the purpose of all secondary windings and test in the lems arise that require the installation of stepping down the voltage for the opera- GST mode. Some current transformers in large compensating devices to regulate tion of instruments such as voltmeters, the high voltage classifications have test the over-voltage conditions and to guar- wattmeters and relays for various protec- taps similar to bushings. Tests can be per- antee stability. Among these devices are tive purposes. Typically the secondary formed on units equipped with a test tap shunt reactors. Shunt reactors are com- voltage of potential transformers is 120 for the C1 insulation and the C2 tap insu- posed of a large coil placed inside a tank volts, so power factor testing is per- lation. Refer to the application guide for and immersed in oil. They can be single formed on the primary winding. Bushing Testing. phase units or three phases in one tank. In Potential transformers are typically Assure that the unit under test is both cases each phase has its own neutral single phase with either single or two grounded before testing. Record all test bushing. bushing primaries. Single bushing pri- results and correct the power factor read- maries have one end of the high voltage ings to the ambient temperature at the TEST CONNECTIONS winding connected to ground. Secondary time of the test. - For all tests, the line and neutral windings are normally three wire and bushings for corresponding phases must dual identical secondary windings are VOLTAGE REGULATORS remain shorted. common. Regulators are generally induction or step-by- step. The induction regulator TEST CONNECTIONS is a special type of transformer, built like - Ensure that the potential trans- an induction motor with a coil-wound Power • UPS • NETA Certified former is disconnected from the primary secondary, which is used for varying the Field Service Engs • Techs • Mgrs source before testing begins. voltage delivered to a synchronous con- Design • Vibration • Motor Repair - Remove any fusing on the sec- verter or an ac feeder system Sales • Power Quality • Pred/Prev Maint ondary circuits to prevent any type of The step-by-step regulator is a sta- Since 1980, we've specialized in placing people who back-feeding to the secondary. tionary transformer provided with a large test, repair, maintain or sell electrical apparatus, elec- - Ground one leg of each secondary number of secondary taps and equipped tronic or electric power equipment. Nationwide. All winding for all tests on two primary with a switching mechanism for joining fees company paid. Call or send confidential resume bushing transformers, for dual secondary any desired pair of these taps to the deliv- transformers it is typically X1 and Y1. ery circuit. to LISA LINEAL: Recruiting Services - Ensure that the case of the potential Voltage regulators may be single or LINEAL transformer is securely grounded to a three phase. Single phase regulators con- 46 Copper Kettle Road, Trumbull, CT 06611 system ground before testing begins, this sists of three bushings identified as S TOLL FREE 877-386-1091 • Fax: 203-386-9788 also includes testing of spare transform- (Source), L (Load) and SL (Neutral). The Email: [email protected] • www.lineal.com ers. Se Habla Español Continued on Page 32

24 Electricity Today Issue 4, 2005 ET_4_2005 6/3/05 9:45 AM Page 25

TRANSFORMER MAINTENANCE

DON’T NEGLECT MAINTAINING YOUR TRANSFORMERS By Paul Eichenberg, Richard Pickering and Sandra Smith, RONDAR INC.

Transformers inspections per- Cooling Fans and Pumps require less care and formed by the attention than almost equipment SPECIALIZED MAINTENANCE any other kind of owner can iden- The maintenance procedure that is electrical apparatus. tify potential best for your transformers will depend on This, however, is not problems in the conditions that they operate under a reason for neglect- their early and will determine the frequency that ing them. stages. Most they should be inspected. The ideal time Transformers not transformers are to start a maintenance program is when a only represent con- equipped with new transformer is being installed. At siderable investment basic indicating this time, pre-installation tests should but they are essential devices that, include: in maintaining the continuity of electric when routinely monitored and recorded, 1. Insulating Fluid Analysis service. Failure of a transformer can will indicate a change from normal oper- 2. Insulation Resistance cause a great deal of consequential dam- ation conditions. In addition to the infor- 3. Voltage Ratio and Polarity Tests age to associated apparatus, therefore, it mation provided by various gauges and 4. Winding Resistance is important that transformers be kept in relays, physical inspections should also 5. Function Testing of Auxiliary serviceable condition and that some probe performed to identify problems such Devices tection given them against conditions as: which may cause failure. - Oil leaks There are two general types of trans- - Cracked or >V}Ê-ÕLÃÌ>ÌÊ former - Liquid Filled or Dry Type. chipped bushings Liquid filled transformers are filled - Damaged ÕÌ>ÌÊÜÌ Ê Ã and cooled with one of the following radiators insulating fluids: - Damaged vÀÊ " Ê - Mineral Oil cooling fans - Silicone Fluid - Deteriorated "*/âiÀÊ³ÊÊ ÀVÕÌÊ Ài>iÀÊ ÌÀ - Other Flame Retardant Fluids paint (examples): - Rust 9LK\JLTHPU[LUHUJLJVZ[Z - Askarel (PCB) - Foreign debris +L[LJ[WYVISLTZPUYLHS[PTL - R-TEMP ª - Plugged 0UJYLHZL9LSPHIPSP[` - Perchloroethylene breathers 4LHZ\YLJVU[HJ[^LHY - Depleted [PTPUNYLZ[YPRLZMH\S[J\YYLU[ Either externally mounted radiators silica gel HUKVWLYH[PVUZ or internally mounted water coils accom- - Defective plish cooling of the transformers. Auxiliary Devices /À>ÃvÀiÀÊ>`Ê/>«Ê*ÃÌÊ ÌÀ Cooling may be through natural convec- Daily Checks tion and circulation or may be augment- 1. Ambient 7YV]PKLPUW\[MVYLULYN` ed with forced air through the addition of Temperature THUHNLTLU[Z`Z[LTZ fans or forced oil utilizing pumps in the 2. Liquid 4VUP[VY]VS[HNLYLN\SH[VYZ water-cooled application. Temperature VY3;*[YHUZMVYTLYZ Dry Type transformers are usually 3. Winding 9LWVY[[V:*(+(PUYLHS[PTL either a varnish or epoxy insulation sys- Temperature 9LJLP]LWVZP[PVUJVUÄYTH[PVU]PHZ`UJOYVVYZSPKL^PYL tem. Cooling will be from either natural 4. Load Currents 7YVNYHTHSHYTHUKJVU[YVSZL[WVPU[Z air convection, forced air or by an insu- 5. Voltages lating gas. 6. Liquid Level Ð *HSS [VSLHYUHIV\[05*65»Z0,+ZVY]PZP[ Transformer and ^^^PUJVUJVT JSPJRVU¸7V^LY9LSPHIPSP[`:`Z[LTZ¹ GENERAL MAINTENANCE Liquid Filled 0UK\Z[YPHS7HYR9VHK Although transformers are highly Bushings 76)V_ :HJV4, reliable and efficient devices, routine Monthly Checks ;LS! -(?

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TRANSFORMER MAINTENANCE

The results of these tests should be the coil layers, turns and end turns will be tion dryness. recorded for future comparative purposes limited. A complete analysis of the total in determining the condition of the trans- insulation system, phase to phase, phase former. Usually after the first few inspec- This is a 3-part test. to ground and turn to turn can be evalu- tions, a defined schedule can be set up Test 1- HV - LV & GRD ated when insulation resistance and insu- based on the existing conditions. Test 2 - LV - HV & GRD lation power factor results are combined. Test 3 - HV & LV - GRD INSPECTION Scheduled inspections on a liquid The results you filled power transformer include the fol- obtain will be in lowing checks: megohms. (mil- Insulating Fluid Analysis lions of ohms). 1. Standard Analysis The values 2. Gas-In-Oil Analysis obtained should be 3. Power Factor corrected to 200C. 4. Water Content Note: never 5. Furan Analysis perform an insulation resistance test Mechanical Inspections on a transformer 1. Liquid Level under vacuum as 2. Paint Finish winding failure 3. Cooling Equipment may result. 4. Breathers 5. Alarm and Control Circuits DIELECTRIC- 6. On-Load and ABSORPTION TESTS Off-Load Tapchangers Dielectric- 7. Bushings absorption testing 8. Auxiliary Devices is a refinement of the standard insulation TEST PROCEDURE resistance test method and tends to offset Following the instructions supplied TRANSFORMER TESTING the effects of temperature and lack of with the bridge, take the following Transformer testing in the field is previous records. capacitance and dissipation factor read- usually limited to the following: The ratio of the insulation resistance ings: 1. Ratio and Polarity readings taken at 10 minutes after the test - HV - LV 2. Insulation Resistance to the one-minute readings is called the - HV - GRD 3. Capacitance and Dissipation polarization index. The values given in - LV - HV Factor (liquid filled only) the following table may be used to eval- - LV - GRD 4. Winding Resistance uate the condition of liquid immersed - LV - HV + LV - GRD 5. Core Ground Test (if applicable) transformers. - LV - LV + HV - GRD Polarization-index guide for evalua- All readings should be corrected to RATIO tion of the condition of liquid filled trans- 20¡C. This test establishes that the HV and formers: LV windings have the correct turns. A polarization index of less than 1.0 RESISTANCE If there is a tapchanger, the ratio may indicate excessive moisture or car- This test establishes that there are no should be checked on each tap position. bonized paths in or over the surface of improperly welded or bolted connections The ratio should, first of all, be calculat- the insulation. in the coil and checks the overall integri- ed using the nameplate voltages as a ty of the coil. basis for the calculation. CAPACITANCE AND DISSIPATION Testing is performed using a Kelvin In taking the actual ratio measure- FACTOR (POWER FACTOR) TEST Bridge. ment, polarity is important in order to The purpose of this test is similar to Note: Generally there is less concern obtain the correct results. that of the insula- Ratio error allowed = 0.5% between tion resistance test Polarization-index guide for evaluation of the condition of liquid filled calculated and measured test value. and is performed transformers Polarization index using a Capaci- Condition (10/1 min. Ratio) INSULATION RESISTANCE TEST tance and Dissipa- The purpose of the insulation resis- tion Factor Bridge. Dangerous Less than 1.0 tance test is to determine the insulating The measurement Poor 1.0 - 1.1 capability of the insulation. If the insula- of insulation power Questionable 1.1 - 1.25 tion is contaminated with moisture, car- factor is the mea- Fair 1.25 - 2.0 bon, etc., its ability to insulate between surement of insula- Good Above 2.0

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for the actual values of resistance than for vacuum. the similarity of the resistance. The resis- PAINT FINISH tance of each LV coil should he similar as Practically all transformers should he the resistance of each HV coil. manufactured in Canada for If the resistance from coil to coil varies outdoor applications are in more than 1.0%, the reason for the vari- painted steel tanks. The life of ance should be determined. a well-designed paint system depends on the thickness of CORE GROUNDS paint film and the quality of The magnetic circuit on transformers the paint. The industry stan- is usually insulated from ground, then dard requires a minimum grounded at one point to prevent a buildup thickness of 3 mil. of excessive voltages in the core. On Any paint will weather in smaller transformers, the connection to Sealed tank transformers eliminate this time. The rate of weathering depends on ground is often inside the tank where it is condition as the sealed gas space above the operating environment. Painted sur- not readily accessible. Transformers have the oil prevents breathing under normal faces should be carefully inspected experienced failures because the magnetic operating conditions. The tank is nor- annually and refinished as necessary. circuit developed additional grounds. The mally sealed at a temperature of 20-25¡C Rust should be removed from affected multiple ground path for the flux through and any change in temperature of the areas and bare metal coated with a suit- the steel members causes overheating in transformer from this level will create able primer before applying a finish coat these steel parts. On modern power trans- either a positive or negative pressure in or coats of paint. formers with ratings of 10 MVA and the tank. A leak on this type of trans- above, the core ground connection is former can be disastrous if it is located in COOLING brought out to the outside of the tank the area of the gas space and the unit is Cooling on transformers is accom- where it is readily accessible for periodic at a temperature below 25¡C as moisture plished by means of oil to water heat checks. will be drawn into the transformer by the exchangers or oil to air heat exchangers. The core insulation should be checked with a 1000-volt insulation resistance tester. Test between the core ground lead and ground. Minimum acceptable values - 100 megohms at 20¡C.

MECHANICAL INSPECTION CONSERVATOR TANK DESIGN Transformers supplied with an expansion tank will have a head of oil above all the gasketed surfaces except the area of the expansion tank above the liquid level and the top half of the relief pipe. Therefore, any leaks below the oil level will be readily identified by the presence of oil around gasketed assemblies. Visual inspection of the relief pipe gasketed diaphragm assembly to ensure that it has not ruptured should suffice.

SEALED TANK DESIGN Smaller transformers of ratings to 10,000 KVAare more likely to be subjected to frequently changing load conditions. If the transformer is a free breathing type with an expansion tank, the temperature cycling created by the varying load will likely introduce moisture and oxygen into the transformer in excessive amounts. This combination of moisture, oxygen and temperature is the major cause of high acidity levels and sludging of the oil.

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TRANSFORMER MAINTENANCE

Oil to water heat from the system in expansion tank should be made to ensure exchangers have two the event of a fault the gauge is indicating correctly. On basic designs: within the trans- sealed tank design transformers, the liq- 1.) Internal Cooler former. uid level gauge is mounted on the tank mounted inside the Although frequently wall. The normal level at 25¡C as indi- transformer at the top overlooked, periodic cated on the gauge will be approximately oil level, testing and mainte- halfway up the opening of the top cooler 2.) External Cooler nance of these header. A low liquid level in this type of mounted outside the devices are critical to transformer will result in overheating, as transformer with the oil your transformer no liquid will be circulated through the piped from the top of maintenance pro- coolers. The liquid level gauges on the tank through the gram. sealed type transformers are similar to cooler and back into the the ones used on the expansion tanks, bottom of the tank. THERMOMETERS however, they may not be supplied with Coolers usually require AND WINDING alarm contacts and should be inspected little or no maintenance TEMPERATURE regularly. for the first 10 years of INDICATORS service, however, the The most common EXPLOSION RELIEF DEVICE manufacturer’s instruc- of these devices is the The explosion relief device is pro- tions should be followed regarding main- liquid temperature gauge. The liquid vided on transformers equipped with tenance. temperature gauge normally supplied on expansion tanks. This device consists of The oil to air heat exchanger is transformers usually has one set of con- a large diameter flanged steel pipe bolted mounted outside the transformer either tacts set to operate at 90¡C. These con- to the transformer cover. The pipe has an on the tank walls or on separate headers. tacts are usually connected to an alarm elbow at its top end and is of sufficient Additional stages of cooling are available circuit to provide a warning that the max- length to allow the oil to rise to the max- by the application of fans to the coolers imum permissible operating temperature imum level in the expansion tank without and radiators and pumps to force the oil has been reached. Transformers equipped flowing over the elbow portion. through the coolers. with forced air cooling will have addi- A thin diaphragm of either Melinex tional contacts provided to operate at or Kapton is placed between the relief BREATHERS temperatures of 60¡C and 75¡C to switch pipe flange and tank cover and a Teflon The most common type of breather on one or more stages of cooling. diaphragm is used at the top to prevent is a simple opening in the expansion tank Larger transformers will also have moisture and foreign matter from enter- shielded to prevent the entry of water, winding temperature indicators. These ing the explosion relief device. and a screen over the opening to keep out instruments indicate a simulated winding bugs and debris. Inspections should be hot spot temperature and are generally MECHANICAL RELIEF DEVICE made to insure that the screen is clean supplied with three or four sets of con- The Mechanical Relief Device is and unplugged. The dehydrating breather tacts to switch on one or more stages of usually mounted on the tank cover and consists of a container of silica gel piped cooling and alarm circuits. acts to relieve the pressure in the tank if to the expansion tank. Moisture in the air this pressure exceeds a certain value. is absorbed by the silica gel as it passes Usually it operates at 8 PSI although through the breather. The addition of an there are units available that operate at oil seal to the breather provides a head of lower values. oil that the air has to lift before it can Its construction is simple, compris- enter the breather, minimizing the ing of a heavy coil spring inside the amount of breathing resulting from housing. The device will operate to minor temperature changes in the trans- relieve the tank’s internal pressure, then former. The oil seal will prolong the self-closes to keep out water and other active life of the silica gel. Regular contaminants. It can also be supplied inspection of the breather is required to with contacts for alarm or trip circuits. ensure that the silica gel is active and not LIQUID LEVEL GAUGE Mechanical Relief Devices are saturated with moisture. If the normal The correct liquid level on a trans- maintenance free and should never be blue colour has changed to pale pink, it former is essential to maintain its dielec- dismantled in the field. The large spring should replaced with new silica gel. tric capability and its cooling require- inside is compressed at all times and ments. On the conservator tank design, a could cause serious injuries. ALARM AND CONTROL CIRCUITS gauge mounted on the end of the expan- All power transformers are equipped sion tank indicates the liquid level. Most VACUUM/PRESSURE GAUGE with one or more protective devices, of these gauges will be equipped with a This gauge measures the degree of designed to initiate a warning or provide set of low level alarm contacts. Periodic vacuum or pressure present in the tank a trip signal to remove the transformer inspections of the actual oil level in the and is mounted in the gas space. The

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gauge usually has a range from -10 PSI to +10 PSI and can be OFF-LOAD TAPCHANGERS supplied with contacts that will alarm or trip at some predeter- Most off-load tapchangers provide a wiping action on the mined values. A regulator can also be installed to control the contacts when moved from position to position. Industry stan- degree of vacuum or pressure in the tank. This regulator will, dards recommend that tapchangers be operated through their under certain conditions, allow the transformer to breathe, and range at least once a year to clean the contact surfaces. The therefore compromises the sealed tank principle. operation of the tapchanger should be combined with turns The importance of vacuum/pressure gauge is not in ratio testing performed during annual maintenance to verify whether it reads positive or negative, but that it reads some- proper operation. thing other than zero, indicating the transformer remains sealed. If, over a 24-hour period of varying loads and ambient BUSHINGS temperatures, it always reads zero, you may have a leak in the All bushings should be physically inspected annually. The tank that could allow the entry of water and the risk of a trans- insulators should be cleaned and inspected for cracks, chips, former failure. and faulty gaskets. Liquid levels on bushings with sight glass- es or liquid level gauges should be verified. Power factor and SUDDEN PRESSURE RELAY (SPR) capacitance on condenser style bushings with a capacitance This relay is mounted on either the transformer cover or tap can be tested and compared to the value on the bushing tank wall and acts only on a sudden rise of pressure. Its nameplates. Bushings without the capacitance tap require one response time is directly related to the rate of rise of pressure reading between the conductor and ground. Changes in capac- within the tank. The faster the rate of rise, the faster the bel- itance and power factor may indicate the presence of water lows within the unit move to operate the microswitch. It is and/or the deterioration of the condenser. designed so that a gradual rise of pressure will not operate the The power factor test is not valid for bulk type bushings, device. as defects will not be detected. The relay is factory sealed and not field repairable. DEGRADATION OF OIL GAS DETECTOR RELAY The desirable properties of insulating liquids degrade in There are several types of gas detector relays used on transformers. They are usually mounted on the transformer cover or pipe connection between the expansion tank and the transformer tank. The relays have two sets of contacts, one set operates by the slow accumulation of gas and the second set Wet Transformer? operates through a sudden increase in pressure, as would be the case when a heavy arc occurs inside the transformer. These Dry It On-Line relays will accumulate the gas evolved in a chamber where it can be collected and analyzed. The information gained from this analysis may identify the cause of the failure. When a transformer equipped with a gas relay is initially filled with oil, air released from the oil and trapped in the windings will col- lect in the relay and give an alarm. This condition may persist for intervals up to three months. If this condition persists beyond this period, it is likely that a fault in the windings, bad joints, faulty contacts, or overheated conductors may be the source of the gas. The transformer should be checked to establish the source of the gases. Reduce Substation Maintenance Costs! ON-LOAD TAPCHANGERS Velcon’s Transformer Dryout System is an on-line dryout There are many designs of on-load switching devices with process designed for safe, unattended, 24-hour operation. each device being designed to meet a specific range of voltage • Transformer remains in-service and current requirements. These tapchangers will all have a set during process. of selector switches that select the appropriate tap on the trans- • Reduce transformer dryout costs former winding. Some selector switches will be exposed to • Improve oil dielectric values arcing as they move from tap to tap, however most are • Improve transformer power factor equipped with a set of load break switches that divert the load • Operates continuously unattended current while the selector switches move from tap to tap. • Extend oil service life Switches exposed to arcing will be contained in a separate • Extend transformer service life compartment of oil isolated from the main transformer. In gen- COLORADO SPRINGS, CO, USA eral, these contacts can be operated through 100,000 opera- Phone (719) 531-5855 tions between inspections. Always refer to the manufacturer’s FAX (719) 531-5690 instruction book for information on specific tapchangers. VISIT OUR WEB SITE AT: www.velcon.com

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Regular testing of the inhibitor con- ticles are generated. Analysis of the insu- tent is quickly gaining wide acceptance. lating oil for certain metals can help pin- Monitoring and keeping the inhibitor point the location of the fault. The type of content at acceptable levels will help metals found indicates the possible increase the service life of your trans- source areas within the transformer. former oil. The Environmental Act requires that Internal transformer faults break the all transformers with PCB contamination oil down into several gases. The detec- greater than 50 ppm, must be so identi- tion of these gases by Dissolved Gas fied, and all sample and material wastes Analysis (DGA) can determine if the oil generated from them must be handled, service as a result of contamination and or insulation is being subjected to ther- stored, or transported in the manner pre- deterioration. Water is perhaps the most mal faults, or if corona or arcing is occur- scribed in the Act and its accompanying common and most dangerous since it ring. There are various diagnostic tech- Regulations. Knowing the PCB content reduces the dielectric strength. Dirt (for niques to interpret the fault type includ- of your transformer and having an offi- example, fibers) is a common contami- ing Key gases, Doernenburg or Rogers cial record of it can also save valuable nant and affects the electrical properties ratios. Regardless of which diagnostic time and money, in cases of leaks, spills, adversely, especially when water is pre- method used, gas generation rates will or other transformer related emergencies. sent. determine the severity of the fault. Most transformer servicing requires that The most common type of deteriora- Regular DGA will help detect potential the PCB content to be known before tion is oxidation brought about by expo- faults in your transformer, without taking maintenance begins. The PCB content sure to air and high operating tempera- it off line. Most problems and repairs can should always be verified after any oil tures. The oil is oxidized to organic acids, then be dealt with and worked into con- treatment, or internal tank work has been which may react later to form a sludge venient scheduling, rather than an emer- performed, to ensure that no contami- that will settle out on electrical elements, gency situation arising due to your trans- nants have been added. lowering their electrical resistance. former suddenly going off line. DGA Sludge may also plug tubing in coolers should be done on a regular schedule, the OUTLINE OF LAB TESTS reducing oil circulation. Water is also size criticality of the transformer will DIELECTRIC BREAKDOWN formed in the oxidation process and This test is important as a measure of when combined with the acids and the ability of the fluid to withstand elec- sludge, lowers the dielectric strength and trical stress without failure. It serves pri- promotes corrosion of metal compo- marily to indicate the presence of conta- nents. Certain metals, such as copper, minating agents such as water, dirt or catalyze oxidation. conducting particles in the oil. A low dielectric test result can be caused by the EVALUATION OF OIL presence of one or more of these agents. The properties of an insulating oil In North America two methods are may be determined by suitable laborato- primarily used for dielectric testing. ry tests and the results of these tests can Historically ASTM Standard Method be used to decide whether the oil is safe D877 has been used on most transform- for further operation or whether it should ers. This standard was originally pub- be reclaimed or replaced with new liquid. lished in 1946, however it is not very Some of the more important tests done sensitive to dissolved water in oil under and their significance are described determine whether this should be on an 80% saturation. A newer dielectric test below: annual or more frequent basis. ASTM Standard Method D1816 is more If the DGA indicates the insulation sensitive to the effects of moisture in TRANSFORMER INSULATING has been subjected to above normal tem- solution especially when cellulose fibers FLUID TESTING peratures, it should be verified with a are present in the oil. For this reason “Standard Analysis” is the minimum furan analysis. As with DGA, the rate of ASTM D1816 is recommended for all regular quality testing that should be per- furan generation can be more important new filtered, degassed and dehydrated oil formed on transformer fluid at least once than the actual level. For this reason, and for power transformers above 230 per year. This should include dielectric monitoring the furan level over time can kV. ASTM D877 should be used for breakdown, neutralization number, inter- indicate if the paper is being subjected to acceptance test on oil received from ven- facial tension*, specific gravity, visual heat stress. Furans can be directly corre- dors in tank cars, tank trucks, or drums. condition and colour. Power factor and lated to the degree of polymerization of dissolved water content tests can be the paper; however, the history of the NEUTRALIZATION OR ACID NUMBER added to these results, to give a more transformer must be taken into consider- Transformer fluid acts as a cooling detailed picture of the fluids physical and ation, a reconditioning or replacement of medium and helps insulate against elec- chemical properties. (*on mineral oils the oil resets the furan level. trical voltage. Oxidation products, sludge only) During transformer faults, metal par- and water are all detrimental to electrical

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properties and can cause corrosion, tend to darken with age due to presence process of oil by combining with oxida- impair cooling and accelerate the break- of contamination or oxidation products. tion byproducts and stop the spread of down of the winding insulation material. Silicone and Askarel should be clear and the oxidation reaction. When the An elevated neutralization number indi- colourless. Any colouration indicates inhibitor has been depleted from the oil cates acidic com- oxidation byproducts - acids and free pounds which are a radicals - will start to significantly affect product of oxidation the oil properties. Analysis can easily along with sludge and check the level of inhibitor present in the water. Build-up of oil. If the concentration is found to be acidic compounds less than 0.02%, the oil should be precedes the forma- reclaimed and inhibitor added to the oil tion of sludge which as soon as possible. deposits on windings and cooling ducts, PCB CONTENT impairing heat trans- It is advised that an owner should fer which increases know the PCB levels of all insulating oils temperature and in his control, from a liability standpoint, increases the oxida- as well as to comply with M.O.E.E. leg- tion rate of the oil. islation. A PCB level greater that 50 ppm The acid also directly identifies equipment as being classifiable weakens the paper as a PCB article. PCB levels between 0 insulation. contamination by another product, or and 50 ppm are classified as non-PCB. leaching of pigments from paints etc. The level determines how wastes, sam- INTERFACIAL TENSION DISSOLVED WATER CONTENT ples and the equipment will have to be Interfacial Tension (IFT) measures Free water may be observed as handled. the polar contaminants in the oil and is droplets in the sample container, or as therefore very sensitive to oxidation suspended particles causing a cloudy FURAN ANALYSIS products. This measurement done on appearance. Dissolved water, however, In dissolved gas analysis, increasing mineral oils in conjunction with the neu- cannot be detected by visual examination levels of carbon monoxide and carbon tralization number, is a monitor of sludge of the fluid; ASTM D-1533 uses the Karl dioxide as well as their ratio has been development. Fisher coulometric method to detect dis- used to determine if a transformer’s insu- solved water in the low parts per million lation is deteriorating. Unfortunately, SPECIFIC GRAVITY range. these gases are also produced in high Transformer fluids perform a very The maximum limit for dissolved quantities from pressboard and some specific task and therefore it is necessary water is 35 ppm for voltage classes up to transformers have been carbon dioxide that certain physical and chemical prop- 69 kV and 25 ppm for voltage classes blanketed at one time. To determine if the erties be present for that task to be per- above 69 kV through 288 kV for mineral insulation is actually involved, a Furan formed properly. To that end, the specif- oils, 60 ppm for Askarel and 100 ppm for Analysis can be performed. ic gravity test tells us that the insulating silicone. Above these levels dissolved When the paper insulation has been fluid conforms to standards and has not water can result in decreased dielectric damaged by heat, it produces glucose been substituted with any other fluid. strength and contributes to oxidation and which, in turn, degrades to furans. There fragmentation of paper insulation. are several different types of furans pro- VISUAL CONDITION duced, however Furfurol is specific to Visual examination of the fluid pro- POWER OR DISSIPATION FACTOR Kraft paper, and Furfuraldehyde is spe- vides non-quantitative assessment of Small particles and fibers, polar con- cific for thermally upgraded paper. undesirable contaminates such as sedi- taminates and water all help to transmit, Caution must be used and previous histo- ment, free water or carbon particles. The instead of insulate against, applied volt- ry of the transformer taken into consider- visual appearance of clear or cloudy is age. ASTM D-974 measures the percent- ation, as Fullers Earth treatment, or vac- also reported. Visual inspection can help age of dielectric losses in an electrical uum processing, removes almost all of pinpoint causes of poor test results. insulating fluid subjected to an energy the furans from the oil. field. Therefore, the lower the number, As the paper insulation is subjected COLOUR the better the fluid. to heat stress, it loses its strength and The colour of insulating mineral oil becomes brittle, however, left undis- is determined by transmitting light INHIBITOR CONTENT turbed it will still act as electrical insula- through the oil and comparing it to a Inhibitor is added to insulating min- tion. The problem is, if it is subjected to series of colour standards. Using ASTM eral oils at the manufacturing or refining any mechanical stresses, it could fall D-1500, this is then expressed by a stage. Type I oil contains 0.08% and away from the metal it is insulating, with numerical value, ranging from 0.5 for a Type II oil 0.3% inhibitor. light yellow to 8.0 for dark amber. Oils Inhibitors help slow the aging Continued on Page 33

Electricity Today Issue 4, 2005 31 ET_4_2005 6/3/05 9:56 AM Page 32

Testing Excitation tests may also be per- units. formed by energizing terminal L with the Continued from Page 24 high voltage lead and the low voltage DRY-TYPE TRANSFORMERS lead on SL in the UST position. Terminal TESTING NOTES windings in the regulator cannot be S should be left floating. Test voltages should be limited to effectively separated, so one overall Power factor results should be cor- line-to-ground ratings of the transformer power factor test is performed. All the rected to top oil temperature on regula- windings. Insulation power factor tests bushings are shorted together and tested tors just taken out of service. Ambient should be made from windings to ground in the GST test mode. Tests should be temperature should be used for those that and between windings. conducted with the tap changer moved have been out of service for any length Temperature at the time of testing to some position off of neutral. of time. Power factor results should be should be at or near 200C. ANSI/IEEE Additional Hot Collar tests may be con- compare to previous tests on the same C57.12.91 - 1997 recommends correct- ducted on bushings of suspect units. equipment or similar tests on similar ing results other than 200C. However, there is very little data available for temperature correction of dry-type transformers. Repeat tests should be performed as near as possible, in the same conditions as the original test. .EW Higher overall power factor results may be expected on dry-type transformers. The majority of test results for PF is found to be below 2.0%, but can range up to 10%. The insulation materials nec- 6 essary for dry-type construction must 4HE0ROFESSIONALS4OOL meet the thermal and stress requirements. FOR0OWER3YSTEM3IMULATION If power factor results appear to be 03#!$©ISAFAST ACCURATE EASY TO USE unacceptable, an additional test called a VISUALSIMULATIONSUITEnTHECHOICEOFLEADING Tip-Up Test can be performed if a 10kV INDUSTRIALANDRESEARCHORGANIZATIONSWORLDWIDE test set is used. This test can be performed to evaluate whether moisture or 5SE03#!$©TODESIGNSTUDY corona is present in the insulation sys- s%LECTRIC-ACHINES$RIVES tem. The applied test voltage is varied s0OWER%LECTRONICS#ONTROL3YSTEMS starting at about 1kV and increased in s)NDUSTRIAL0OWER1UALITY intervals up to 10 kV or the line-to- s(IGH 6OLTAGE!PPLICATIONS$EVICES ground rating of the winding insulation. s!LTERNATIVE%NERGY)NTEGRATION If the power factor does not change as the test voltage is increased, moisture is 4EST DRIVEYOURFREETRIALTODAY suspected to be the probable cause. If the WWWPSCADCOM power factor increases as the voltage is increased, carbonization of the insulation or ionization of voids is the cause. ,IMITLESS!PPLICATIONS )NTERACTIVELYDESIGN REFERENCES OPTIMIZEINTEGRATE POWERSYSTEMSFOR Theodore Wildi, Electrical Machines, RENEWABLEENERGY ELECTRIC Drives, and Power Systems VEHICLESCOUNTLESSOTHER Waukesha Electric Systems, Instruction APPLICATIONSUSINGTHE Manual #V 2.1 REV 12/95 9300 03#!$©LIBRARYOF MACHINEMODELS POWER Terrell Croft, American Electricians’ ELECTRONICSCONTROLS Handbook ANSI/IEEE, C57.12.80-1979, )MPORT033%©NETWORK DATAINTO03#!$USING Terminology for Power and Distribution THE% 42!.©POWER Transformers SYSTEMTRANSLATOR C57.12.90-1987 Test Code for Liquid- Immersed Distribution, Power and Regulating Transformers C57.12.91-1979 Test Code for Dry-Type Transformers -ANITOBA(6$#2ESEARCH#ENTRE)NC #REE#RESCENT 7INNIPEG -ANITOBA Richard O. Babcock is the Applications #ANADA2*7 INFO PSCADCOM Specialist Technical Support Group for WWWPSCADCOM Megger.

32 Electricity Today Issue 4, 2005 ET_4_2005 6/3/05 9:56 AM Page 33

Transformers Richard Pickering is Customer Account Paul Eichenberg is a professional elec- Representative with Rondar Inc. His trical engineer with a B.Sc. from Queen’s Continued from Page 31 twenty eight years of experience in the University in 1978. He is a Service electrical service industry includes a Engineer with Rondar Inc., with broad possible devastating effects. wide range of commissioning, testing experience in Canada and Overseas in repair and maintenance of electrical power system design, protection, com- DISSOLVED GAS ANALYSIS power systems for industrial, marine and Dissolved Gas Analysis is probably missioning, maintenance and project the most important test that can be per- utility customers. leadership. formed on a Power Transformer. It checks for various gases that are produced in the event of internal faults of corona, thermal faults, arcing, and insulation breakdown. It involves utilizing Gas Chromatography to measure the concentration expressed in parts per million of the following gases: Oxygen + Argon (O2 + A), Nitrogen (N2), Carbon Dioxide (CO2), Carbon Power Transformer Monoxide (CO), Hydrogen (H2), Methane (CH4), Ethylene (C2H4), Cooling Equipment Ethane (C2H6), and Acetylene (C2H2). For both new transformers and existing units A limited amount of gas generation, re-rated to higher capacities, Unifin provides a under normal operating conditions superior line of reliable electrical cooling occurs in all transformers. If the trans- equipment. former is under electrical or thermal stress, the level of gasses or the rate of combustible gas generation will be abnormal. The rate of increase in conjunction with the size of the transformer can give an indication of fault type and severity.

SUMMARY The information provided in the previous text provides the equipment owner with basic information regarding the maintenance requirements of power transformers. Industry standards recommend transformers be tested annually in addition to the daily and monthly inspections suggested. While the equipment owner can perform daily and monthly inspections, annual testing should be performed using a Professional Service Specialist trained and experienced in transformer testing and evaluation. Specialized laboratories with personnel experienced in providing detailed interpretation and recommendations of the test results should also be uti- lized to perform the Transformer Fluid Analysis.

Sandra Smith received her Bachelor of Science degree from Guelph University The Hottest Name in Cooling in 1985. She is the Manager of Rondar Inc.’s Fluid Analysis Laboratory and has Serving OEMs and 13 years of experience in transformer Major Utilities in the electrical industry fluid analysis and interpretation, assist- ing customers in their maintenance deci- London, Ontario, Canada 1-888-451-0310 www.unifin.com sions.

Electricity Today Issue 4, 2005 33 ET_4_2005 6/3/05 9:56 AM Page 34

TRANSFORMER MAINTENANCE

TRANSFORMER TRIPPED? FIGURE OUT ITS SAFETY LEVEL BEFORE ANYTHING ELSE! By Tony McGrail, Doble Engineering

No one enjoys the stressful and time-consuming problem of having a transformer that has tripped off line. There are a number of reasons why it could have tripped, and many tests that can be done to determine what went wrong. Where to start? Before the testing begins, the most important issue is safety: of the transformer, of the work space, and, above all, of personnel. Figure 1 shows a transformer, which tripped when in service. Looking at the transformer, it isn’t obvious that there is anything wrong with it. This visual inspection may not show much. Regardless of its appearance, it’s imperative to keep in mind the safety of the transformer. Safety is the key concern, taking priority over the bottom line. It might make good economic sense to try and return a questionable transformer to service, but do you want to be held accountable for the risk involved? A catastrophic failure of the Figure 1: A transformer, which tripped out while in service. unit could occur. In order to make a rational decision on how to handle the transformer, reliable information about the dielectric and mechanical state of the transformer is needed. Dielectric information shows the ability of the insulation to withstand voltage. Mechanical information shows whether the transformer has suffered winding damage, which could lead to dielectric

2XUFRPSDQ\LVDGLYLVLRQRI&ROW(QJLQHHULQJ&RUSRUD breakdown. WLRQ&DQDGD¶VODUJHVWHQJLQHHULQJFRQWUDFWRUH[SHULHQFHG LQWKHK\GURFDUERQLQGXVWU\2XUFOLHQWLV6\QFUXGH DECISIONS, DECISIONS *RW WKHZRUOG¶VODUJHVWSURGXFHURIOLJKWVZHHWFUXGHRLO The first item that needs to be addressed is the cause of the %ULJKW IURPRLOVDQG7RJHWKHUZHDUH&R6\QMRLQWO\FRP PLWWHGWRTXDOLW\SHRSOHDQGTXDOLW\UHVXOWV transformer tripping while on-line.

,GHDV" &R6\Q¶VEXVLQHVVVXFFHVVLVKHLJKWHQHGE\HP In order to do so, some initial questions must be answered: SOR\HHLQQRYDWLRQ

(OHFWULFDO(QJLQHHU &RPSHWLWLRQ(((QJ'VJ(7 This is also the time when a general visual inspection and :PVXJMMCFSFTQPOTJCMFGPSDPODFQUVBM CBTJDBOEEFUBJMFOHJOFFSJOH review of the transformer history is typically performed. To do EFTJHO this effectively, requires knowledge of the transformer design, :PVIBWFBCBDIFMPSTEFHSFFBOEIBWF ZFBSTPGSFMBUFEFYQFSJFODFJO problems and likely weak spots. BOPJMTBOETPSPUIFSMBSHFTDBMFQFUSPDIFNJDBMQMBOUTFUUJOH:PVNVTU The next step is doing an efficiency assessment to evalu- CFFMJHJCMFGPSSFHJTUSBUJPOXJUI"1&((" ate which tests are required so that the transformer can be *GUIJTTPVOETMJLFUIFSJHIUFOWJSPONFOUGPSZPV XFXFMDPNFZPVSBQQMJDBUJPO )PXFWFS POMZUIPTFJOEJWJEVBMTTFMFDUFEGPSBOJOUFSWJFXXJMMCFDPOUBDUFE returned to service with confidence. It is important to find out 1MFBTFRVPUFDPNQFUJUJPOOVNCFSXIFOBQQMZJOH/PBHFODJFTQMFBTF the transformer’s viability before putting it back into service. In order to determine the transformer’s viability, we +XPDQ5HVRXUFHV ±6WUHHW should differentiate between the general testing of transform- (GPRQWRQ$OEHUWD7%7 )D[ ers that confirms viability during regular maintenance, and the (PDLOKUFRV\Q#FROWHQJFRP

34 Electricity Today Issue 4, 2005 ET_4_2005 6/3/05 9:56 AM Page 35

focused testing of transformers that demonstrates viability after a fault. A suspect dissolved gas analysis result during routine maintenance may have less weight than one produced after a transformer trip. Determining the transformer’s viability is the reason the SFRA (Sweep Frequency Response Analysis) is a key tool for assessing transformer health and safety.

GENERAL TESTS FOR TRANSFORMER HEALTH The general tests performed on a transformer are power factor and capacitance testing or dissolved gas analysis of oil (DGA). These tests give a broad indication of the health of the transformer. Power factor testing indicates the dielectric strength of the transformer, while capacitance testing is related to the construction of the windings. After the transformer is out of service, a closer inspection of the dielectric and mechanical aspects of the transformer should be done. The DGA signature should be paid close atten- Figure 3: SFRA variation before and after a shorted turn within a tion to determine what key gases are present and how their pro- transformer portions have changed since the last sample. Years of research by Doble Laboratories have shown that Variations in the SFRA traces (Figure 3) are a clear indi- DGA is a powerful indicator of problems within a transformer cation of a turn within a transformer that has shorted out. In and can often identify the cause of the fault. However, DGA is this case, the initial results of Figure 2 are overlaid by a sub- an integrating diagnostic: the results are for the transformer as sequent response after a close in fault. The initial trace shows a whole and it is difficult to pin down a particular part of the the characteristic ‘dip’ or first resonances around 1 kHz. The transformer as being the problem. subsequent trace shows the effects of the short circuit: a reso- nance missing and a low dB response at low frequencies. After SWEEP FREQUENCY RESPONSE ANALYSIS — seeing this type of variation once, it is relatively easy to make RECORDING THE TRANSFORMER’S SIGNATURE this diagnosis in future. SFRA is a tool for investigating the mechanical integrity of a transformer. SFRA provides a fingerprint, for every winding on each phase of the transformer. The fingerprint is provided in the form of an SFRA trace. These traces are plotted as a response, in dB, to an input signal that varies in frequency from 20 Hz to 2 MHz. An example of this is shown in Figure 2.

Figure 4: Null result – SFRA measurements taken in 1994, 1997, 1999, 2000 and 2002

Even without reference results, there are certain characteristic shapes expected from a SFRA trace. (i.e. the core res- Figure 2: Example SFRA Trace onance is around 1 kHz, and the main winding responses is below 100 kHz.) The peaks and valleys in the trace are resonances that Conversely, a null result, where there has been no change relate to impedance (specifically, inductance and capacitance) in response, is strong evidence that nothing has changed with- within the transformer. The values of this impedance are in the transformer. Figure 4 shows FIVE successive SFRA strongly determined by the transformer construction and traces from one winding of one phase of a Generator Step-Up geometry. It is the variation in the SFRA responses that pro- Continued on Page 36 vides evidence of winding movement or damage.

Electricity Today Issue 4, 2005 35 ET_4_2005 6/3/05 9:56 AM Page 36

Transformers Continued from Page 35

(GSU) transformer taken in different years. Small variations at low frequency relate to the state of core magnetization when the transformer was switched out of service. Overall, it is clear that the main resonances have not changed. These results give strong evidence that there has been little significant winding movement or distortion over the past five tests. In this case, the SFRA test demonstrates there has been no degradation in the mechanical integrity. For this transformer, the only step needed is to ‘reset the clock’ for reference results during a routine maintenance outage.

THE TRANSFORMER MAY BE ‘BENT’ BUT NOT BROKEN Figure 5: Open Circuit SFRA traces One of the benefits of SFRA is that it can indicate non-fatal damage within a transformer that will need to be addressed in the future. A case story presented at the 2004 Doble Client Conference concerned a 28 MVA mobile transformer that became suspect due to rising DGA results. This transformer was tested using SFRA, resulting in a clear diagnosis of hoop buckling (compressive deformation) on the X1 winding. The open circuit SFRA results, shown in Figure 5, show a shift left for one phase at a key frequency area. The short circuit SFRA results shown in Figure 6, show increased impedance for the same X1 phase. Using reference results from a sister unit and analysis of results from the Doble Knowledgebase, it was possible to make a definitive diagnosis without the costly de-tanking and internal inspection of the transformer. By performing the SFRA testing and comparing the results, the question Figure 6: Short Circuit SFRA traces remains on the level of safety of the transformer. REPEATABILITY - THE VALUE OF SFRA In this case, the transformer is safe, TESTING SFRA - REDUCING UNCERTAINTY but there is a warning that the trans- The true value of SFRA testing is the When making decisions relating to former is ‘bent’. The transformer has repeatability of results. Experience over transformers, the most important factor is been damaged by a fault, which compro- the years has shown that a Sweep system reducing uncertainty about the test mised its mechanical strength: making it is the only way to extract that value from results. With SFRA, better decisions, much less likely to withstand another the results. The ‘Null result’ showing no more effective asset management, and close-in fault. movement in Figure 4 would be lost if the confidence of re-energization can be The unit was returned to service for the measurement was not repeatable to made. SFRA is the only tool that pro- six months and performed well, provid- within +/- 1 dB. vides the Range, Resolution and ing a vital service up until it could be SFRA identifies damage within a Repeatability ensuring that the data is safely taken to a workshop for repair. The transformer and indicates the location useful for improved decision making. ‘bent’ diagnosis was confirmed during and extent of damage without the need While SFRA is an important tool, it the repair, as shown in Figure 7. for costly de-tanking or internal inspec- should be used in conjunction with other tion. electrical and diagnostic tests to paint a

36 Electricity Today Issue 4, 2005 ET_4_2005 6/3/05 9:56 AM Page 37

complete picture of transformer health. For further information and case studies, please visit the Doble web site: (www.doble.com).

Tony McGrail is the M5100 SFRA Product Series Manager with the Doble Engineering Co., based in Watertown, MA, USA. Prior to this, Tony was a Transformer Engineer with the National Grid Co. in the UK. He is a Chartered Engineer in the UK, holds a Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering and a Masters in Instrumentation. Figure 7: Hoop Buckling of Transformer Winding

Electricity Today Issue 4, 2005 37 ET_4_2005 6/3/05 9:56 AM Page 38

INDUSTRY NEWS

‘DC TIE’ ELECTRICAL POWER TRANSFERS BETWEEN MEXICO, TEXAS GRIDS APPROVED

Sharyland Utilities announced that it ty) perspectives support the investment”. DC Tie quickly accessible during an has obtained a Certificate of He also emphasized Sharyland Utilities’ energy crisis, and the addition of compet- Convenience and Necessity (CCN) from commitment to operate the DC Tie as an itive Mexican power prices creates an the Public Utility Commission of Texas open-access connection. This means that interesting alternative in Texas’ energy (PUCT) to build an electrical intercon- all electricity market participants, includ- price-shopping environment,” said Mark nect between the Texas and Mexico ing Mexican industrials and utilities on Caskey, general manager of Sharyland power grids. both sides of the border, can sell and/or Utilities. “Strengthening the reliability of This cross- border tie will be the first purchase power to the mutual benefit of our state’s electric systems remains a pri- of its kind to support both emergency both parties. ority for us. This project emphasizes our power and commercial business activity “We are grateful to the State of commitment to the infrastructure in in Texas and Mexico. The 150-megawatt Texas for approving this project,” said South Texas and the consumers who call High Voltage Direct Current Tie (“DC the Honorable Norbeto Salinas, Mayor of the Valley their home.” Tie”) will allow two-way electricity Mission, Texas, where the DC Tie con- With construction planned for early transfers between completely indepen- verter will be located. “The technologi- 2006, the 20-month DC Tie project is dent power grids, which supports eco- cal and economic benefits of this tie will expected to be completed in the first nomic development and increased relia- be felt not just in Mission, but throughout quarter of 2007. bility of both grids. the Valley and in northern Mexico. On Sharyland Utilities is the first Prior to approving the CCN, PUCT behalf of the City of Mission, I look for- Greenfield electric utility in the United Chairman Paul Hudson issued a memo ward to working with Sharyland Utilities States since the Reedy Creek expressing his “strong belief that reliabil- to make this project a reality as soon as Improvement District was created to ity from both instantaneous capability possible.” serve Disney World in the late 1960s. and reserve (electrical power availabili- “The always-on feature makes the ET CANADA’S WIND POWER CAPACITY JUMPS ALMOST 25 PER CENT

Canada’s wind-power capacity, already the fastest-growing for the environment, and do good for business at the same form of electricity generation in Canada, took another signifi- time,” said Mr. Robert Vincent, President of 3CI, Incorporated, cant step forward recently with the announcement of funding co-developer with Northland Power of the Mount Miller wind for two new wind-power projects in Murdochville, Quebec. farm and co-developer with Creststreet Power Holdings of the Together, the 60 turbines at the Mount Miller and Mount Mount Copper wind farm. Copper wind farms provide 108 megawatts of wind-energy “The price of wind-generated electricity is becoming more capacity, lifting Canada’s total wind-power generation capacity and more competitive, and the Wind Power Production from 444 to more than 550 megawatts, an increase of nearly 25 Incentive is playing an important part in accelerating its com- percent. petitiveness.” The new wind farms were developed with the support of Under the WPPI, eligible recipients, such as independent the Government of Canada’s Wind Power Production Incentive power producers, utilities and cooperatives, can receive an (WPPI), which will contribute more than $36.5 million to the incentive of approximately one cent per kilowatt-hour (kWh) of two projects over the next 10 years. The WPPI is administered production for electricity generated by their wind farms. by NRCan (Natural Resources Canada). Payments to eligible recipients are made over ten years and “To address climate change and maintain a strong and begin once a wind farm is commissioned or operational. growing economy, we need a reliable supply of competitively Typical large-scale wind turbines have a life expectancy of priced, clean energy,” said Minister Jacques Saada. about 20 years. Funding to the WPPI has been increased to more than $900 Including the wind farms commissioned, Canada’s total million, with a goal of adding 4,000 megawatts to Canada’s wind-power capacity is now 552 megawatts. Through the wind-energy capacity by 2010. WPPI, the Federal government has contributed to the develop- “Wind power is a perfect example of how we can do good ment of almost 60 percent of that capacity. ET

38 Electricity Today Issue 4, 2005 ET_4_2005 6/3/05 9:56 AM Page 39

NEW TECHNOLOGIES

PROTECTING VITAL COMMUNICATIONS FROM CYBER ATTACKS WITH SERIAL ENCRYPTION

Instrumentation and control systems operate and monitor critical infrastructure components. Today there are real threats of malicious physical and cyber attacks on these systems, making their protection and security more important than ever. An attacker, for example, can secret- ly monitor sensitive information on data links, or send messages to operate equipment or change settings. Attackers could steal data that would identify biggest customers, usage patterns, delivered power quality, and production rates, or to iden- The SEL-3021 Serial Encrypting Transceivers secure vital communications to protect electric grids against cyber attack. tify physical targets. Worse yet, imagine the problems they could cause by com- valves to open or close. ties are concerned about attacks on the manding breakers to open or close, The Federal Energy Regulatory machines to stop or start, and gates or Commission (FERC) and electric utili- Continued on Page 42

FREE SAMPLES & FREE PARTS WASHER METERING PROGRAM COMPLY WITH EPA, OSHA AND CALIFORNIA

GREEN POWER AQUEOUS PARTS WASHING DEGREASER APPLAUDED Cleans and strips away wax, flux, coolants, oil, paints, silicones, etc. Minimizes toxic waste McKenzie Bay International Ltd applauded the voluntary removal. SAFE for ALL brands of aqueous parts statewide net metering program approved by the Michigan washers, deburring, ultra-sonics. Phosphate free Public Service Commission (PSC). and rust inhibited. CAUTION: Planisol, TASC users, you WILL use less "Green Power". The net metering initiative is the result of a consensus agreement signed by 11 utilities serving customers in GRAFFITI GONE PAINT,ADHESIVE AND RESIN STRIPPER Michigan. As a result of the decision Michigan customers will be able to generate renewable energy for on-site use with Replaces acetone, MEK, 1,1,1, trichloroethane and other McKenzie Bay’s next-generation WindStorSM wind power flammable hazardous solvents. Strips away and dissolves urethane, epoxy, cyanoacrylate, polymer, resins, paints, etc. system. The decision also empowers Michigan customers to Safe for the environment. further maximize savings by transmitting excess power into the public grid. In exchange for the power generated by the cus- F R E E PARTS WASHER! tomer the utility will issue a credit to that customer commen- surate with the power metered. The improved version of Green Power Sonics provides three “This program will encourage the development of on-site ways to clean/degrease parts: Hand wash with renewable energy sources such as WindStorSM. It will also flow-through brush or let the bubbling, environ- take some pressure off the electrical grid and allow residential ment friendly, degreaser effortlessly clean while and small business customers to utilize green energy in a mean- you perform other tasks and for critical cleaning of tiny pin holes and blind spots flip the switch ingful way while reducing their power costs,” said McKenzie to start our powerful ultrasonic waves that Bay President, Gary L. Westerholm. blast away carbons,oils,silicones etc. Michigan-based McKenzie Bay subsidiary WindStor You also have a choice, if you prefer, a Spray Power Co is the owner and developer of WindStorSM, a wind Tank Washer which pressure washes parts in a energy system designed to integrate distributed generation rotating basket for 360° cleaning. wind power installed on or near a building with grid power. GREEN POWER CHEMICAL 60 River Road • Stanhope, NJ U.S.A. 07874 Call: 800-932-9371 USA * CANADA * MEXICO International Calls: 973-770-5600 Fax: 973-770-1158 WindStorSM will feature WindStor Wind Turbines, a propri- www.greenpowerchemical.com etary system integrator and, if applicable, a battery.

Electricity Today Issue 4, 2005 39 ET_4_2005 6/3/05 9:56 AM Page 40

HELP YOUR COMPANY GENERATE PROFITS by being well trained and informed

Continuing Education Units (CEUs) Offered for the courses The Electricity Forum Training Institute (EFTI) is one of Canada’s Leading providers of continuing education to electrical personnel. For the past 19 years, The Canadian Electricity Forum has been offering courses to electrical engineering, maintenance, construction and technical services personnel. In that time, more than 20,000 delegates have attended our training. The EFTI has assembled a faculty of instructors with real-world experience in their respective areas of expertise, as well as extensive experience in presenting courses/semi- Successful completion of this course qualifies dele- nars in Canada and around the world. We conduct on-site training for all of the gates to receive a certificate of course completion with indicated CEUs. CEUs are granted by the electrical subjects offered in our public venues. In addition, we publish Engineering Institute of Canada. One CEU is equiv- Electricity Today Magazine, Electrical Source Magazine, and 12 Annual alent to 10 professional development hours of Technical Handbooks. instruction.

Fall 2005 • course schedule

September October November December Power Transformer Management 12-13 Toronto, ON 13-14 Vancouver, BC 15-16 Edmonton, AB Electrical Safety In The 13-14 Thunder Bay, ON 24-25 Vancouver Island, BC 14-15 Regina, SK Workplace 15-16 Sudbury, ON 26-27 Prince George, BC 19-20 Ottawa, ON 22-23 St John, NB 26-27 Halifax, NS 29-30 St. Johns, NL Fire Alarm Systems: 19-20 Saskatoon, SK 1-2 Toronto, ON Practical Applications 21-22 Winnipeg, MB 6-7 Vancouver, BC 8-9 Edmonton, AB Industrial Electricity Efficiency 26-27 Toronto, ON 4-5 Vancouver, BC 6-7 Edmonton, AB 17-18 Saskatoon, SK 19-20 Winnipeg, MB Electrical Grounding for 17-18 Toronto, ON 1-2 Vancouver, BC Industrial Power Systems 3-4 Edmonton, AB

2005 NETA Electrical 7-8 Toronto, ON Maintenance: Standards and 22-23 Vancouver, BC Practices 24-25 Edmonton, AB 28-29 Saskatoon, SK 30-Dec1 Winnipeg, MB For schedule updates, please visit: www.electricityforum.com/forums/courses.asp

easy ways phone: 1-905-686-1040 4 fax: 1-905-686-1078 to register online: www.electricityforum.com/forums/reg.htm mail: The Electricity Forum 15, Harwood Ave. S., Suite 204, Ajax, ON L1S 2B9 40 ET_4_2005 6/3/05 10:10 AM Page 41

THE HUMAN FACTOR

FOOD FOR THOUGHT AT THE POWER INDUSTRY FORUM By Bob Fesmire, Communications manager at ABB

The 12th Annual Power Industry returns, Rana Mukerji, ABB’s Vice experience with restructuring in North Forum was held May 11-13 in Washington, President of Electric Systems Consulting America has made regulators less enthusi- DC and featured panel discussions on gen- noted that the lack of transmission invest- astic about the ability of markets to solve eration, transmission, retail competition ments transcends the usual siting and other complex issues such as those surrounding and industry recovery. The panels were complexities that utilities have grappled transmission investment. But as the MISO made up of top-level executives from with. According to Mukerji, the two main example shows, there are at least some pos- across the industry and the views presented pricing options for transmission owners— itive changes that are brought about with were equally far ranging. regulated returns based on dollars invested the implementation of a competitive energy I was especially interested by the dis- or returns based on ownership of conges- market. cussion of transmission issues, perhaps tion rights—both have serious deficiencies. Questions about the capability of mar- because that is my area of focus in my “day The first pricing mechanism involves kets as a catalyst for improved reliability job”, but also because transmission seems recovering its embedded costs via a net- will remain, but there is a sense of to be on everyone’s mind, regardless of work access charge. The second involves inevitability beginning to take hold across what sector of the industry they hail from. entitlements to receive congestion revenue the industry when it comes to transmission. Since the August 2003 blackout, oceans of rights (CRRs). The first pricing mechanism National Grid’s Calviou pointed out that ink have been spilled as regulators and the is a traditional cost-of-service model, there are presently over 450 entities that industry grapple with how to prevent such which does not allow a transmission com- own transmission assets in the US. In the an event from recurring. The Forum, host- pany or ratepayers to capture the benefits of current business climate, consolidation ed by Torys LLP, offered some interesting innovations in technology or managerial seems increasingly likely, and could very perspectives. improvements. Given the costs, risks and well have a positive impact on the ability of Michael Calviou, Vice President, complexity of building transmission pro- transmission owners to undertake upgrades Transmission Regulation and Commercial jects, the regulated rates of return may not and expansion projects - larger, wealthier at National Grid, put the issue of underin- offer enough incentives for transmission companies simply have more muscle to vestment in perspective by noting that investments. The second mechanism, make transmission projects happen. while transmission spending in real dollar which is based on congestion revenue Central Vermont Public Service terms has declined, it’s even more alarming rights (CRRs), provides incentives that are President and CEO Robert Young was con- when you compare US investment with simply too little and too uncertain to be fident transmission expansion would hap- C other countries on a dollars per gigawatt bankable. The fatal flaw in the CRR mech- pen, he said, because it is so vital. He also per year basis. Taking the UK as an exam- anism is that once the transmission corridor posed the rhetorical question, what happens ple, Calviou noted that on this score our is upgraded the CRRs are worth less than to generation owners when their plants are colleagues across the pond are investing when the congestion was in effect. Mukerji idle because of congestion? Obviously, three times as much as we are annually in hopes that incorporating economic benefits transmission issues affect industry players their transmission infrastructure. The rea- of improved efficiencies and congestion of all kinds, but everyone has their own sons for underinvestment are many, but mitigation into the regulatory calculus for ideas about what should be done and who what can be done to reverse the trend? transmission projects might allow for more should pay for it. Several panelists pointed to changes in attractive returns and thus draw more Still, the discussions I heard in the structure of how transmission invest- investment. Washington gave me the sense that our ments are made and regulated. Robert The rules governing who can invest in industry knows that something has to give, Mitchell, President of Trans-Elect New transmission projects and how those invest- that we need to find an answer to the ques- Transmission Development Company, sug- ments are recouped in particular markets tion of who pays for transmission and, by gested allowing market participants into are important issues, but there are also extension, for reliability. If the energy bill the transmission segment as a way to make industry-wide considerations. In restruc- making its way through Congress is passed more capital available to transmission pro- tured regions, competitive markets might and mandatory reliability standards jects and offer those companies access to provide some of the answer to the trans- become the law of the land, that will add to regulated (read: assured) returns. He noted mission dilemma. MISO President James the pressure, but perhaps the bill will also that participants in competitive markets Torgerson noted that with the implementa- provide some of the certainty that is need- would have to be restricted to investing as tion of real-time and day-ahead markets ed to break the inertia of transmission passive partners in order to avoid market and the systems that support them, MISO is investment. power issues, but the idea is worth consid- now able to redispatch generation The opinions expressed here are the ering. resources within ten minutes as opposed to author’s own and do not necessarily repre- Picking up on the issue of regulated the hour it took previously. Clearly, recent sent those of ABB.

Electricity Today Issue 4, 2005 41 ET_4_2005 6/3/05 10:10 AM Page 42

INDUSTRY NEWS

FUND BRINGS PUBLIC, PRIVATE SECTORS TOGETHER TO DEVELOP POWER GENERATION By Don Horne

Developing new power generation “The relative stability of the sector in Ontario is more crucial than ever, and (and) our knowledge of the industry it is the Algonquin Power Venture Fund means we can make quick judgments,” that is showing how the private and pub- says Mr. Norman. “We know what we lic sectors can work together to solve this like and what we don’t like…. We tend to problem. invest in potential cash flow, not cash Established as a Labour Sponsored burn.” Investment Fund (LSIF) to provide ven- Looking outside of Ontario, ture capital to support the development Manitoba’s first wind-turbine generating of independent power projects, the For a venture capital project, the facility in St. Leon benefited from Venture Fund aims to provide LSIF power generation sector is about as con- Algonquin Power’s investment and ven- investors with access to the predictable servative an investment in risk capital as ture fund, helping to get the 99 megawatt yield and long-term capital appreciation an investor will find. project off the ground in co-operation typical of the electrical power genera- The venture fund benefits from the with the Canadian Renewable and tion, distribution and infrastructure sec- managerial experience it shares with the Conservation Expense program. tor in Ontario. Algonquin Power Income Fund (APIF), “The legislation allowed the venture For Algonquin Power it is a natural recognized as a leading consolidator in fund to invest in the wind farm project fit, as the group’s two decades of experi- North America’s deregulated electric outside of the province as the wind farm ence in the engineering, environmental power generation market since its incep- was run from within Ontario,” points out and regulatory fields (in addition to being tion. Boasting an SR-2 stability rating Mr. Norman. “We are looking at invest- an experienced developer and asset man- (Very High) on trust units by Standard & ing in projects in the wind sector, small- ager of independent power facilities), Poors, the APIF also has an A- rating on er, niche-market projects in hydro-gener- gives them the background and knowl- their bank debt. ation, and also in the biomass and cogen- edge to make expert decisions on funding Since 1987, Ontario Hydro has eration areas of electricity generation.” potential power generation projects. entered into long-term power purchase With a diverse portfolio that “We have a proven track record and agreements with various independent includes power generation and infra- established industry contacts that enable power producers, with some 120 produc- structure assets reaching across North us to place our investments on the low ers now operating within the province. America (47 hydroelectric facilities, five end of the risk scale for venture capital,” The need for the private sector to natural gas-fired cogeneration facilities, says Jeff Norman, President of the take on a greater role in Ontario’s power 18 alternative fuels facilities and 11 Algonquin Power Venture Fund. generation needs is underlined by the water reclamation and distribution facili- “For as little as a $1,180 (after tax commitment by Queen’s Park to close ties), Algonquin Power is proving that credits and deductions), an investor can the province’s coal-fired facilities by small-scale generation can be lucrative acquire a $5,000 investment in a LSIF. 2007. This loss of 7,500 megawatts for those willing to invest. The LSIFs invest a high percentage of accounts for approximately 30 per cent For more information on the their assets in businesses with less than of Ontario’s generation capacity. Algonquin Power Group, you can visit $50 million in assets (at the time of For the Algonquin Power Group, their website at www.algonquin- investment) with fewer than 500 employ- they are looking at developing co-gener- power.com or the Venture Fund at ees. For a typical power project, this fits ation, small hydro facilities and alterna- www.algonquinpowerventurefund.com. the requirements,” says Mr. Norman. tive power sources. ET

Serial Encryption are designed specifically to protect existing and new communi- Continued from Page 39 cations links between power control centers, electrical substations, and generating plants. systems that monitor and control the electrical power grid. Systems that require time-critical communication, such as Serial Encrypting Transceivers, like the SEL-3021, protect crit- SCADA, metering, and protection, require low latency from ical infrastructure from attack and comply with industry serial encrypting transceivers. The “bump-in-the-wire” solution requirements and recommendations. They use encryption and developed by Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories allows easy session authentication, and locks out unauthorized control, and installation in existing links. ET

42 Electricity Today Issue 4, 2005 ET_4_2005 6/3/05 10:09 AM Page 43

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86&( * O $' GI ) LG - ET_4_2005 6/3/05 10:28 AM Page 45

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Electricity Today Issue 4, 2005 45 ET_4_2005 6/3/05 10:28 AM Page 46

PRODUCTS AND SERVICES SHOWCASE

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ADVERTISERS INDEX Issue 4, 2005

ADVERTISER PAGE CONTACT INFO ELECTRICITYFORUM WEB PAGE AF White 10 www.afwhite.on.ca wwwelectricityforum.com/products/afwhite.htm Algonquin Power 14 www.algonquinpower.com Bell 7 www.businessonthego.ca/utilities Cable Master Inc. 46 www.cablemasterinc.com www.electricityforum.com/products/cablemas.htm Canadian Electricity Forum 46 www.electricityforum.com www.electricityforum.com Flex-Core 45 www.flex-core.com www.electricityforum.com/products/flex.htm FLIR Systems Ltd. 48, 21, 45 www.flir.com www.electricityforum.com/products/flir.htm GT Wood Company Ltd. 45 www.gtwood.com www.electricityforum.com/products/gtwood.htm Hubbell Power Systems 2, 19, 45 [email protected] www.electricityforum.com/products/hubbell.htm ICUEE 43 www.icuee.com Incon 39 www.incon.com www.electricityforum.com/products/incon.htm Lineal 24 www.lineal.com Lizco Sales 45 www.lizcosales.com www.electricityforum.com/products/lizco.htm Magna Electric Corp. 16 www.magnaelectric.com www.electricityforum.com/products/magna.htm Manitoba HVDC Research Centre 32 www.pscad.com www.electricityforum.com/products/manitoba_hvdc.htm Morgan Schaffer 47 www.morganschaffer.com www.electricityforum.com/products/morgan.htm Optimized Devices 45 www.optdev.com www.electricityforum.com/products/optimized_devices.htm RONDAR Inc. 9 www.rondar.com www.electricityforum.com/products/rondar.htm Synergy 23 www.synergyinc.com www.electricityforum.com/products/SYNERGY_ENERGY_INC.html Terex 13 www.terexutilities.com www.electricityforum.com/products/Terex_Utilities.html Unifin International 33 www.unifin.com Utility Safety 44 www.utilitysafety.com/expo Water-Jel 37 www.waterjel.com Wire Services 27 www.wireservices.ca www.electricityforum.com/products/wire_services.htm

46 Electricity Today Issue 4, 2005 ET_4_2005 6/3/05 10:28 AM Page 47 Transformer problems?

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5110 de Courtrai Avenue Tel.: +514.739.1967 Montreal, Quebec Fax: +514.739.0434 Canada H3W 1A7 E-mail: [email protected] Transformers - The Inside View VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT: www.morganschaffer.com ET_4_2005 6/3/05 10:28 AM Page 48 Go infrared... without going in the red!

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