ANSI IEEE 37.61-1973 J} Std 321-1973 An American National Standard IEEE Standard Guide for the Application, Operation, and Maintenance of Automatic Circuit Reclosers ‘Sponsor IEEE Reclosers and Sectionalizers Subcommittee NEMA Automatic Circuit Recloser Technical Committee Approved June 22, 1972 Reaffirmed December 15, 1977 Reaffirmed December 12, 1985 Reaffirmed June 18, 1992 IEE Standards Board Secretariat Edison Electric Institute Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers National Electrical Manufacturers Association Approved June 14, 1973 Reaffirmed October 10, 1979 Reaffirmed May 3, 1988 American National Standards Institute Published by Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers 345 East 47th Street, New York, N.Y. 10017American National Standard ‘An American National Standard implies a consensus of those sub- stantially concerned with its scope and provisions. An American National Standard is intended as a guide to aid the manufacturer, the consumer, and the general public. The existence of an American National Standard does not in any respect preclude anyone, whether he has approved the standard or not, from manufacturing, marketing. purchasing, or using products, processes, or procedures not conforming to the standard American National Standards are subject to periodic review and users are cautioned to obtain the latest editions. CAUTION NOTICE: This American National Standard may be revised or withdrawn at any time. The procedures of the American National Standards Institute require that action be taken to reaffirm, revise, or withdraw this standard no later than five years from the date of publication. Purchasers of American National Standards may receive current information on all standards by calling or writing the American National Standards Institute, 1430 Broadway, New York N.Y. 10018, © Copyright 1978 hy The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, Ine. No part of this pubtication may be reproduced in any form, In an electronte retrieval suntem nr mtheruise “eithout the prior written permission Wf the publisherForeword {This Foreword is nota part of American National Standard Guide for the Applicetion, Operation, and Maintenance of Automatic Circuit Reclosers, C37.61'1973, IEEE Std 821-1973) ‘This is a new standard developed to provide information on the selection, application, operation and maintenance of automatic circuit reclosers. It represents current practice on this product in the United States. ‘The preparation of this standard was the cooperative work of the IEEE Switchgear Committee (Reclosers and Sectionalizers Subcommittee), which prepared this standard, and the NEMA Switchgear Section (SG-13 Automatic Circuit Recloser Technical Committee), and the C37 Subcommittee on Automatic Circuit Reclosers and Line Sectionalizers. which reviewed and approved the document. Upon recommendation of this latter subcommittee, the proposed American National Standard was voted on by Standards Committee C37 on Power Switchgear, and subsequently approved as an American National Standard. ‘Suggestions for improvement gained in the use of this standard will be welcome, They should be sent to the American National Standards Institute, Inc, 1430 Broadway, New York, N-Y. 10018, ‘The American National Standards Committee on Power Switchgear, C37, which reviewed and approved this standard, had the following personnel at the time of approval. C.L. Wagner, Chairman C.M. Clevenger, Executive Vice-Chairman, High-Voltage Switchgear Standards W.R. Wilson, Executive Vice-Chairman, IEC Activities W.E. Laubach, Executive Vice-Chairman, Low-Voltage Switchgear Standards J.G. Werner, Secretary Organization Represented Name of Representative Association of Iron and Steel Engineers Electric Light and Power Group R. D, W. Hudson (410) H Knight (Ale) Markey (At) Friedrich sate of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Owens whit Fahnoe (Alt) Imhof (Alt) Maier (Alp) Musgrave (Al) Col EmZoPm™ > R 4 R 4 H, ¢. H i 4 M National Electrical Manufacturers Association som>y) kmevon ‘Tennessee Valley Authority US Department of the Artay RH. Bruck U.S. Departiment of the Interior, Bureau of Reclamation Rdward N. Torsic U.S Department of the Navy, Naval Facilities Engineering Command. D.M Hannemann‘The personnel of the IEEE standard were as follows: Reclosers and Sectionalizers Subcommittee who prepared this L. V. McCall, Chairman RS. Arnold BW, Edwards ALL. Bohlinger R.A Few W.L. Carey 3. P. Fitzgerald L.B.Crann E.R. Longman G.W, Dollott BH. Sehulez F.C. Tuetet ‘The personnel of the NEMA Automatic Circuit Recloser Technical Committee who reviewed and approved this standard were as follows: B. H. Schultz, Chairman H. Colin Smith, Secretary RH. Amdt ALP. Parke RE Koch (aly G.0. Perkins ALL. Boblinger K.G. Darrow (aly, SER Laughiin Fred C. Tusfel ‘SLR. Jonea (Att) W.C, McKay RS Amold Ed. Field RA. Fow ‘The personnel of the C37 Subcommittee on Automatic Circuit Reclosers and Line Sectional- izers who reviewed and approved this standard were as follows: B.H. Schultz, Chairman H. Colin Smith, Secretary RH. Amdt RA Few ALL. Bohlinger J.P. Fitzgerald LB, Cran ER Longman G.W. Dellott M.L. Paulson FW. Bawards F.C. Teatel When this standard was approved on June 22, 1972, the IEEE Standards Committee had the fol- lowing membership: J. Forster, Chairman B.O. Weinschel, Vice Chairman 8.1, Sherr, Secretary S.J. Angello G.B Hertig S.W. Rosenthal ‘J.L, Koepfinger Gustave Shapiro Harvey Lance RUM. Showers B.J.Leon PH. Smith FL Becker D.T. Michael F.G.Timmel Richard Brereton J.D.M, Phelps L. van Fools W.H. Cook. ROHL Rose. IT ELV. Wachter Louis Costrell W.T Wintringhamtents SECTION 1. Scope. 2. Purpose 3. General 4. Application 4.1 Recloser Characteristics 4.2 Information Needed for Recloser Application 4.3 Selecting the Recloser 5. Operation 5.1 Installation 5.2 Reclosing After Lockout. 5.3 Cold Load Pickup 6. Maintenance 6.1 Frequency of Maintenance 6.2 Procedures. 7. References 8. Revision of American National Standards Referred to in This Document. FIGURES Fig 1 Circuit for Sample Problem 1 Fig 2 Comparison of Time-Delay or Retarded Curves Fig 3 Sample Recloser—Fuse Coordination Chart Fig 4 Circuit for Sample Problem 2 Fig 5 Circuit for Sample Problem 3 ‘APPENDIXES Appendix A Recloser Characteristics Al. Standard Ratings A2. Operating Characteristics AS, Accessory Equipment Fig Ai Typical Time-Current Curves of a Single-Phase, Hydraulically-Controlled Recloser Rated 100 A Continuous Current Appendix B Procedure To Determine Maintenance Basis on Number of Operations of Oil-Filled Reclosers ‘Table BI Recloser Duty Factors. Appendix C Basis of Derivation of Duty Factors and Standard Operating Duties. . Fig C1 Recloser Duty Factor versus Interrupting Current Rating PAGE rT) 15 15 16 16 15 16 a 10 u 13 4 18 18 18 20An American National Standard IEEE Standard Guide for the Application, Operation, and Maintenance of Automatic Circuit Reclosers 1. Scope This application guide provides informa- tion on the selection, application, operation, and maintenance of single or multi-pole alter- nating-current automatic circuit reclosers. ‘The guide is for use in conjunction with American National Standard Requirements for Automatic Circuit Reclosers for AC Sys- tems, C37.60-1968, and Supplement C37.60a- 1971. The definitions in American National ‘Standard C37.60-1968 apply to this guide, 2. Purpose This application guide was developed to identify the principle characteristics of re- closers, indicate the system information needed, and give step-by-step procedures used to select reclosers for specific applications. 3. General Due to the wide variety of operating condi- tions, many different application and main- tenance procedures are employed by users. ‘This guide does not attempt to present all of these and is necessarily limited in scope. Where there are several acceptable proce dures, as in the selection of recloser operating sequences, commonly used alternatives are described, with a discussion of their relative advantages. It assumes that the user of this guide will have some experience with fault current calculation procedures and with the application of fuse or relay-controlled circuit breakers to electric power systems. For the user lacking this experience, a list of selected references is included in Section 7. Sample problems illustrate the procedure followed in selecting single-phase and three-phase re- closers, and in providing coordination with other protective devices in the circuit. Addi- selection of recloser operating sequences is provided in Appendix A. Section 5, Operation, recommends that op- erating checks be made on reclosers at the time of installation, and after operation, and discusses the problems associated with reen- ergizing a circuit which is protected by a recloser. Section 6, Maintenance, covers the recom- mended frequency of maintenance, and main- tenance procedures. A procedure to determine maintenance according to the number of re- closer operations is described in Appendix B. About 90 percent of all faults on overhead distribution lines are temporary faults caused by lightning, conductor slap, or by animal or tree contact. Early efforts to improve the reliability of service on distribution circuits led to the development of the repeater fuse. With this arrangement, if a fuse were blown, a second and, if necessary, a third fuse, would automatically be inserted into the circuit. Since most faults were temporary in nature, service was usually restored automatically by the replacement fuse, and long service inter- ruptions were avoided, The success of the repeater fuse led to the development of the automatic circuit recloser, a self-controlled interrupting device which senses fault currents and proceeds through a predetermined sequence of opening and re- closing operations, followed by resetting, hold- closed or lockout. Early reclosers were single- phase, oil-filled, series-trip devices in which main circuit current above a specified value, flowing through a solenoid or operating coil, provided the energy required to open the main contacts. ‘The first reclosers had relatively low contin- uous and interrupting current ratings. With load growth, higher continuous and inter- rupting current ratings have been developed. Modern reclosers are manufactured in single- phase and in three-phase units with mechani-cal or electronic control. Interruption may be in oil or in a vacuum. Reclosers having higher current ratings may be shunt trip actuated, with operating energy for tripping and con- tact opening being obtained apart from the main circuit, 4. Application 4.1 Recloser Characteristics. A knowledge of recloser characteristics and standard ratings is a prerequisite to their proper application. The characteristics of importance in appli. cation are: (2) Voltage rating (2) Continuous current rating (3) Interrupting current rating (#) Minimum tripping current (5) Operating or time-current characteristic (6) Operating sequence (7) Reclosing interval (8) Reset time A discussion of recloser characteristics is given in Appendix A. Manufacturers’ catalogs Provide information on available recloser models, their individual characteristics and optional accessory equipment. Standard rat- ings and requirements for reclosers are speci. fied in American National Standard C37.60- 1968 and Supplement C37,60a- 1971. 4.2 Information Needed for Recloser Appli- cation. The minimal information given below is needed for recloser selection, 4.2.1 System data and circuit map show- ing: (2) System voltage (2) System grounding (3) System impulse insulation require- ments (4) Tentative recloser location (5) Location of other seetionalizing devices (6) Maximum and minimum fault currents at each sectionalizing device location (7) X/R ratio at point of application (8) Minimum fault current’ at end of each circuit or at end of recloser zone of protection See Sample Problems 1 and 2 for typical methods of determining minimum fault current, and Sample Prob lem 3 for an alternative method of determining the end of the zone of protection, a] GUIDE FOR THE APPLICATION, OPERATION, AND (9) Location of major or critical loads and whether they are single- or three-phase 4.2.2 Manufacturers’ data on available re- closers: (1) Time-current characteristic (TCC) curves (2) Operating sequence and control (3) Current and voltage ratings (4) Optional accessories 4.2.3 Data on other sectionalizing devices ith which the recloser must coordinate (Q) Size or current rating (2) Time-current characteristic (TCC) Selecting the Recloser. In selecting a re- closer it is assumed that the operating se- quence will be predetermined by system prac- tice or by the characteristics of other sectiona: lizing devices with which the recloser must coordinate, See Tables 2 and 3 of American National Standard Supplement C37.60a-1971. Note that reclosers are classified by “line num- bers.” This terminology will be used herein to identify or refer to various classes of reclosers. ‘The following steps are to be followed in selecting a recloser: Step 1: From Table 2 of American National Standard Supplement C37.60a-1971, identify all recloser line numbers acceptable for the circuit voltage, (2) Line 1 reclosers may be used on circuits of 24-15 kV (2) Line 2—8, inclusive, reclosers may be used on circuits of 2.4—15,5 kV (3) Line 9—12, inclusive, reclosers may be used on circuits of 15.5—27 kV (4) Line 13 reclosers may be used on circuits of 27-38 kV (5) Line 14 reclosers may be used on circuits of 38—48.3 kV (6) Line 15 reclosers may be used on circuits of 48.3—72.5 kV The remaining steps of this procedure as- sume the use of line reclosers that satisfy this voltage criteria, ‘Step 2: Determine maximum load current (allowing for some load growth) at the recloser location. From the recloser line numbers of Step 1, note from Table 3 of American Na- tional Standard Supplement C37.60a-1971 those that have continuous current ratingMAINTENANCE OF AUTOMATIC CIRCUIT RECLOSERS equal to or greater than the maximum load current. Step 3: Determine the maximum sym- metrical fault current at the recloser location. (Allowing for future increase in fault current.) From the recloser line numbers meeting the conditions of Steps 1 and 2, identify all those that have an interrupting current rating greater than the maximum fault current. Use the applicable part of Table 3 of American National Standard Supplement C37,60a- 1971. Step 4: Determine the minimum fault cur- rent at the end of the zone protected by the recloser. From the recloser line numbers of Step 3, identify all those with minimum tripping cur- rents less than the minimum fault current. Refer to Table 3 of American National Standard Supplement C37.60a-1971 which gives minimum trip settings for nonseries coil reclosers. For series coil reclosers, double the continuous current ratings of Table 3 of American National Standard Supplement C37,60a-1971 to obtain the minimum tripping. current. NOTE: Some series coil reclosers are available with nonstandard series coils having a minimum trip value less ‘than 200 percent ofthe continuous current rating. An alternative method is to define the end of the zone of protection of a recloser as that point on a circuit having a maximum line to ground fault value of some multiple at least 1.5 times of the recloser minimum pickup current, to ensure that the minimum fault current will be greater than the minimum tripping current. In the event that no recloser under Steps 2, 3, and 4 can meet this requirement for min- imum tripping or pickup, a three-phase re- closer with a ground trip auxiliary device may be used effectively on a grounded system. ‘These auxiliaries are available and can detect minimum fault currents of a few amperes. Ground fault sensitivity is limited by the fact that there is load connected from line to neutral, causing some current to flow in the neutral, under normal load conditions, ‘Step 5: From the recloser line numbers and continuous current ratings that meet the pre- ceding requirements, select those that will coordinate with other devices on the circuit, and coordinate with the damage time current IBEE Sta 3211973 characteristics of circuit elements to be pro- tected. Device-to-device coordination is done by a comparison of time-current characteristic (TCC) curves, operating sequences, and reset times of the qualifying reclosers with the protective characteristics of other sectionaliz- ing devices on the circuit. Occasionally it may be necessary to change the size, settings, or locations of the other sectionalizing devices where coordination is not obtained with a recloser that is otherwise suitable. To ensure that circuit elements are ad- equately protected from exposure to over- current, the summation of the clearing times of the TCC of the qualifying recloser should be compared with the damage TCC of the circuit elements, such as switches and conductors, to be protected. This is to ensure that de- energization will occur before damage to the circuit elements takes place, ‘Step 6: At this point, it is likely that several line number reclosers will meet all the re- quired conditions. In this case, consider the following in select- ing a particular line number: (2) System standards and inventory prac- tices may call for the use of only one recloser line number that will be suitable anywhere on the system within voltage limitations, (2) To minimize investment, the lowest cost recloser line number that qualifies may be the deciding factor. (3) System practice with respect to the use of three-phase or single-phase reclosers may be the deciding factor. (A) Desired flexibility of the recloser control may dictate the use of a particular line num- ber. ‘Step 7: It is also likely that several continu- ous current ratings (series coil only) of a given line number may meet all requirements, ‘The selection will be influenced by the fol- lowing considerations: (1) The larger rating permits more load growth and will be less sensitive to lockout on inrush and cold-load pickup currents, (2) The smaller rating will be more sensitive in the detection of fault currents below the calculated minimum, Step 8: After the recloser line number and continuous current rating have been deter- mined, refer to the manufacturer's catalog for aANSI 37-61-1973 Existing Line *3 Recioser - 100A Series Coil fl Ss ~ Recloser ~ Sectionalizer Point A2, Moximum Fou! Current = 700A, Load Current = 10a Minimum Fault Current = 140A T2/25 kV Wye — GUIDE FOR THE APPLICATION, OPERATION, AND Point ABCI Maximum Fault Current = {000A Load Current = 308 Point AI isp Load Current A Minimum Fault Current = 160A, Note A foult resistance of 40 ohms was assumed in tne coleuiation of minimum foult current values Minimum Fault Current = 150A Fig 1 Cireuit for Sample Problem 1 the model that corresponds to the selected rating. Information on optional equipment and ac- cessories can be obtained in the catalog for the specific recloser selected. 4.3.1 Sample Problem I. Select a recloser for use at Point ABC1, given the data in Fig 1. Solution: The load current and available fault current at Point ABCI permits the use of a single-phase series coil recloser. Referring to Table 3 of American National Standard Supplement C37.60a-1971, continuous cur- rent rating must be at least 35 A, but for load srowth 250 A, or even a 70 A, rating should be considered. Checking the interrupting rating for these sizes shows that a 50 A Line 1 recloser or 35. 50, or 70 A Line 2, 3, and 4 reclosers would meet the interrupting require- ments. The minimum calculated fault current of 140 A at the end of the zone of protection based on an assumed fault resistance of 40 {2 should be detected by any of the foregoing coil sizes of 35, 50, or 70 A. Detection of the po al 10 minimum fault by the 70 A recloser (140 A +10 percent pickup) would, however, be mar- ginal and therefore this recloser size probably would not be considered. To determine wheth- er these various reclosers will coordinate with the substation recloser, the TCC curves may be compared as shown in Fig 2. In practice, it is often assumed that a lower continuous current rated series coil recloser will coordi- nate with a larger continuous current rating series coil recloser, particularly if they are of the same make. This is not true for certain older reclosers. Also, at locations where the fault current is high relative to the recloser ratings, the separation of adjacent rated re- closer TCC curves may not provide positive coordination. In such cases, it is advisable not to use adjacent coil ratings. Until experience is gained with the various recloser character- istics, it is advisable to compare TCC curves. Since Fig 2 shows that coordination will be obtained with any of the possible reclosers,MAINTENANCE OF AUTOMATIC CIRCUIT RECLOSERS 1BEE Sta 321-1973, Comparison of Time-Delay or Retarded Curves the selection must be based on the consid- erations discussed earlier. For this example, it is most probable that the 50 A Line 1 recloser would be selected since it meets all require- ments adequately and has the lowest first cost. 4.3.1.1 Coordination with Load Side De- vices. When a recloser is installed in a circuit, the coordination of load side devices must also be checked. The continuous current rating of the automatic line sectionalizer® at Point Al should be 50 A, the same as that of the recloser at Point ABC1. Coordination will be obtained with smaller ratings, but in this case it will be necessary to check the short time current ‘An automatic line sectionalizer is @ self-contained circuit opening device that automatically opens the main tlectrical circuit through it after sensing and responding to a prodetermined murber of successive sain circuit impulses of predetermined or ereater magnitude. Itopens while the main circuit is de-energized. MW ratings of the sectionalizer to be sure that they are adequate for the maximum system fault currents at the sectionalizer location. The selection of the load side fuse at Point A2 iis determined by plotting the TCC charac- teristics of the 50 A Line 1 recloser on loga- rithmic paper or using transparent overlays and selecting a fuse size in accordance with system coordination practices. Fig 3 shows that a 20 A fuse will be satisfac- tory for use at Point A2. 4.3.2 Sample Problem 2 — Selection of ‘Three-Phase Keclosers. A three-phase recloser may be installed instead of single-phase re- closers for any of the following basic reasons: (1) The circuit load exceeds the maximum current rating available in single-phase re- closers, (2) The maximum short-cireuit current ex- ceeds the maximum interrupting rating avail- able in single-phase reclosers.ANSI €37.61:1973 GUIDE FOR THE APPLICATION, OPERATION, AND Figs Sample Reeloser (8) The load is critical to single phasing, and requires a three-phase switching device. (4) Less investment may be required com- pared to the use of three single-phase re- closers, (5) It may be preferable for a particular substation design, Example: The procedure used in selecting a recloser for Point A, Fig 4, is as follows: Nominal voltage 7.2/12.5 kV Wye. Although single-phase reclosers are avail- able which will satisfy the load and short. circuit requirements at “A,” assume that a three-phase switching device is preferred for one of the other reasons noted above. Based on the maximum fault current at Point A, a recloser having an interrupting rating of 8000 A or greater is required. From Table 2 of American National Standard Supplement C37.60a-1971, this requirement would be sat- isfied by any of the Line 5, 6, 7, or 8 reclosers. Since some margin above interrupting rating is usually desired by users, it is probable that the Line 5 recloser rated at 8000 A would not be considered. Tables 2 and 3 of American National Standard Supplement C37.60a-1971 wd i \ 12 Fuse Coordination Chart show that the Lines 6, 7, and 8 reclosers are all nonseries coil reclosers with continuous cur- Tent ratings of 560 and 1120 A, respectively. In view of the present maximum load current of 200 A and making allowance for load growth. it appears that the 560 A continuous current tating is adequate and therefore only the Lines 6 and 7 reclosers will be considered. Note that for nonseries coil reclosers, there is only one continuous current rating. Min. imum phase current trip setting is variable however, and as indicated by Table 3 of Amer. ican National Standard Supplement C31,60a. 1971, a Line 6 or 7 recloser may be obtained with trip settings of 200, 280, 400, 560, 800, and 1120 A, Assume that for coordination with the source side device, a 400 A phase trip current is the maximum setting that can be tolerated. For load growth purposes this also seems to be a reasonable choice, ‘The data given on the sketeh of Fig 4 shows @ minimum calculated fault current (line-to- In this example, determined by assus 200 ‘this minimum fault current was ne a fault resistance to wound ofMAINTENANCE OF AUTOMATIC CIRCUIT RECLOSERS Point A I Fee Eee cee ee Maximum Fault Current = 8O00A Load Current = 2008 f | [R]- Recloser | 72/125 kV Wye aaa Maximum Fauit Current = 2708 | Note | A fault resistonce of 20 ohms was ossumed. in | the calculation of fault current values sround) of 250 A at Point E. Since this current will not cause phase current tripping at the selected rating, it is necessary to install ground tripping to detect the minimum fault current. These accessories are not standard- ized, but reference to manufacturers’ catalogs show minimum ground tripping ratings of 50, 70, 100, 140, and 200 A. Any of these will detect the minimum fault current. ‘The criteria for phase current unbalance on. this system is based on a maximum of 20 percent of the maximum load current of the three phases. Using the phase tripping current setting as the maximum possible load current and taking 20 percent of this value gives a tentative minimum ground trip of 80 A. After considering the possible unbalanced current through the recloser in the event of the open. ing of the most heavily loaded single-phase branch circuit, it appears that a 100 A ground trip setting would be satisfactory. The recloser selected for use at Point A would have the following characteristics: (2) Line 6 or 7 (2) Continuous current rating, 580 A (3) Minimum-phase tripping current, 400 A (4) Minimum ground tripping current, 100 A (5) Time-current characteristies to coordi- nate with the source and load side devices, (See sample problem 1 for illustration) 13 cuit for Sample Problem 2 In checking the catalog data of the manu- facturer whose recloser has been chosen for general use, it is found that a Line 6 recloser is not offered. Therefore, the Line 7 recloser is selected. Sample Problem 3 — Selection of Three-Phase Reclosers (Alternative Method). As an alternative to calculating minimum fault current at a predetermined zone end, with an assumed value of fault impedance. the zone end can be defined as that point where the maximum fault current is some multiple (say 1.5% or 2.0x) of the recloser coil min- imum pickup value. This method takes into account the probability of the occurrence of some fault impedance, while somewhat sim- Dlifying the calculations required. This meth- od is illustrated in Fig 5, In selecting a recloser for Point A, a revi of Tables 2 and 3 of American National Stan- dard Supplement C37.60a-1971 reveals the following: Voltage Rating: Voltage rating lines 1-8 are acceptable, NOTE: Lines 9-15 are for higher voltage aystems and will not necessarily work properly on 7:2/12.5 kV lines, Interrupting Rating: Lines 1 and 2 are not acceptable; the remainder are acceptable. Continuous Current Rating: Lines 1 and 2 are not acceptable; the remainder are accept- able.ANSI 37.61.1973 14.5 Miles 24 Miles 1/0 ACSR_7.2/12.5 kV GUIDE FOR THE APPLICATIO’ OPERATION, AND z 38 Foul 6-6 Fouit Zone of protection of recioser at point A 30004 3300A " 7 " "8 760A 560A " * BEC 580A 2808 Figs Circuit for Sample Problem 3 A Line 3 recloser is adequate in all respects, and should be a good economic choice for application at Point A. The coil should have a continuous current capability equivalent to the largest load expected, and desirably a minimum rated coil size.‘ A 140 A coil could be selected, and with the desired operating sequence, if coordination with source side devices exists, this recloser would be installed at Point A. In this example, it is assumed that the end of the zone of protection for any recloser is that point where the maximum phase to ground fault current is equal to twice the recloser pickup current. Therefore, the zone end for the recloser at Point A is that point where the maximum phase to ground fault current is 140 x 2 x 2 ~ 560 A. Calculations show that this occurs 6.5 miles from Point A. A second recloser is required at this point (B). By again employing the selection process described for A, it is established that a Line 2 tecloser with a 70 A coil can be applied at Point B. The end of the zone of protection for the recloser at B will be the point where the phase-to-ground fault current is 70x 2x 2- 280 A, or 14.5 miles from Point A. Similarly, ‘Minimizing the coil size has the advantages of: () Providing faster clearing of faults, reducing the probability of damage to circuit elements (2) Extending the zone of protection to optimum value. An excessive number of units is avoided, while, mare taining adequate protection, at Point C (14.5 miles from Point A), a Line 1 recloser with a 35 A coil can be applied. The Line 1 recloser zone end will be at a point where the phase-to-ground fault current is 35 x 2x 2= 140 A. This point is beyond the end of the circuit. In every case, the recloser selected conforms to requirements for: (1) Voltage rating (2) Interrupting capability (8) Continuous capability (4) Coordination with adjacent devices This alternate method can be applied to branch lines as well. It can also be used in those situations where reclosers must be ap- plied at specific locations (junctions, ete) dic- tated by operating requirements. 5. Operation 5.1 Installation. All personnel responsible for supervision and operation should become fa- miliar with reclosers and their function before Placing equipment in operation. This can be accomplished by studying the manufacturer's instruction book and diagrams. | Before installation: (2) Check for external mechanical damage (2) Check oil level of oil-filled reclosers (8) Check the operating sequence to deter- mine that the recloser operates as specified (4) Check the operation counter (Record its Teading when installation is completed)MAINTENANCE OF AUTOMATIC CIRCUIT RECLOSERS, A record card for each recloser should be kept on file to show the make, type, size, and serial number of the unit, and the date of purchase and date and location of the instal- lation, counter reading, settings, and se- quences of operation. Additional data should include dates of inspection and maintenance, nature of main- tenance, oil test data, and reassignment to other locations. 5.2 Reclosing After Lockout. If the recloser has operated to lockout, the operator should first make a complete visual inspection of the recloser for evidence of external damage such as broken or cracked bushings, thrown oil, ete. After the fault has been removed from the line and inspection indicates that everything is in order. the recloser may be closed. 5.3 Cold-Load Pickup. Excessive currents ex- perienced on circuit reenergization may cause operation of the recloser to lockout. The ex- cessive currents are caused by two pheno- ‘mena; both are likely to occur: (2) Inrush currents associated with motor starting, transformers, and the like. The dura- tion of this component of cold-load pickup is quite short, a matter of several cycles. (2) An increase in the post interruption load value relative to the pre-interruption load value due to loss of diversity of cycling loads (electric heating, air conditioners, etc). ‘The ratio of the post interruption load to pre- interruption load varies with the length of interruption but can be as high as 2. Due to this effect excessive currents may persist for tens of minutes. If cold load cannot be picked up, the circuit may be sectionalized to disconnect part of the load, or the recloser may be by-passed tempo- rarily. Nonseries coil reclosers may have spe- cial control provisions to allow for the inrush ‘component of cold-load pickup, Caution: Do not hold the operating lever of series coil reclosers in a closed position in an attempt to pick up cold load, 6. Maintenance 6.1 Frequency of Maintenance. All reclosers should be maintained after a number of oper- ations, or after a time interval, in accordance 15 IEEE Std 321-1973, with the manufacturer's recommendations or operating experience. 6.1.1 Maintenance Based on Elapsed Time. The frequency of inspection and maintenance will vary with the operating service and with local conditions. Initial inspections should be made in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations. Local conditions of humid- ity and temperature may affect the frequency of maintenance necessary. Study of main- tenance records extending over several years will be helpful in determining proper main- tenance schedules. 6.1.2 Maintenance Based on Number of Op- erations. Reclosers may be maintained after a certain number of operations. determined from the recloser operation counter readings. A procedure for evaluating useful life of a recloser based on standard duty is presented in Appendix B. 6.1.3 Maintenance Based on Elapsed Time and Number of Operations. In recloser mai tenance; the use of time interval alone as a basis for servicing does not take into account the frequency and severity of the recloser operations. On the other hand, use of the number of operations alone ignores elapsed time during which the oil may have deterio- rated. ‘A suggested method of combining the elapsed time and operation factors is as fol- lows: Maintenance and internal inspection of reclosers should be performed at 100 oper- ations or every three years, whichever occurs first. However, operating experience with par- ticular designs is the best basis for estab- lishment of maintenance schedules. 6.2 Procedures 6.2.1 Field Inspection. After installation, a recloser should be carefully inspected at estab- lished intervals, which may be seasonal, monthly, or quarterly, or even less frequently. ‘The inspection should include checking the tank for oil leakage and examining the bush- ings for cracks, as well as the coverage of other items recommended by the manufacturer. ‘The counter reading should be recorded at the time of inspection. When the inspection is made, it is recommended that the recloser be bypassed by suitable means, and isolated, and that an operating test be performed. The recloser should be manually operated severalANSI 37.61.4973 times to the lockout position by means of a switch stick, or other control. Operating tests may disclose possible sources of trouble and are also of value in preventing the accumu- lation of high-resistance oxides on the contact surfaces, 6.2.2 Servicing. When reclosers are ser- viced, the following items should be given particular attention: (2) Oil — Never assume that new oil is free of moisture. It should be tested for dielectric strength before using, with breakdown across a standard 0.1 in gap occurring at not less than 26 kV rms, the minimum acceptable dielectric strength for new oil. Breakdown at a lower test voltage usually indicates excessive moisture in the oil. This moisture should be removed by filtering before the oil is used in any type of electrical equipment. When reclosers are temporarily removed from service for minor repair work prior to their scheduled servicing, test the oil before putting the recloser back in service. If the dielectric strength of the oil is less than 22 kV rms, it should be replaced with clean dry oil. NOTE: See American National Standard Methods of ‘Testing Electrical Insulating Oils, C69.2-1970 (ASTM 1117-69) for approved test methode. (2) Vacuum Interrupting Modules — These modules may lose dielectric strength from leaks caused by excessive mechanical strain, insufficiently degassed contact materials, of other causes. Vacuum gap dielectric strength can be tested with a 60 Hz high-potential test at the manufacturer's recommended voltage. Vacuum contacts should be adjusted for Proper contact opening travel, contact closing over-travel and contact closing force accord: ing to manufacturer's recommended proce- dure. WARNING: VACUUM INTERRUPTERS MAY PRODUCE X-RADIATION WHEN EN- ERGIZED ABOVE MAXIMUM RATED VOLTAGE. READ MANUFACTURER'S ID STRUCTIONS CAREFULLY FOR RE- QUIRED PRECAUTIONS.* (3) Insulation — The insulation of fiber parts and of electrical wiring may deteriorate due to aging, moisture, and the accumulation jean National Standards C37.85-1972 and 772 which establish X-radiation limits for pom: er vacuum interrupters, “ GUIDE FOR THE APPLICATION, OPERATION, AND of sludge deposits. The insulation can be test- ed by a 60 Hz high-potential test, by power factor measurement, or by de insulation tests. ‘The 60 Hz high-potential test voltage should be 76 percent of the 1 minute dry withstand voltage shown in Table 2, Column 5, of Ameri- can National Standard Supplement C37.60a- 1971, (4) Minimum Tripping Current — The minimum tripping current test is made to determine the recloser trips at the proper current value. This test is described in Section 5.5 of American National Standard Supple- ment C37.60a-1971. When conducting low-voltage, high-current tests for determining minimum trip, follow recommendations of the recloser manu- facturer, (5) Time-Current Characteristics — Manu- facturer’s maintenance manuals usually con- tain instructions for this type of test. Test conditions and procedure are described in Section 5.10 of American National Standard €37.60-1968, (6) Lockout — New or reconditioned re- closers should be checked by operating them through their sequence to lockout before they are placed in service. The procedure for this test varies with the make and type of recloser. ‘The manufacturer's instruction manual will usually describe the procedure for the specific recloser. (D Reset — The resetting time of a recloser should be checked during the lockout test and should be within the limits set by the manu- facturer. 7, References ANSI C37.010-1972 Application Guide for AC High-Voltage Circuit Breakers (IEEE Std 320-1972) ANSI C37.60-1968 Requirements for Auto- matic Circuit Reclosers for Alternating-Cur- rent Systems ANSI C37.60a-1971 Supplement to C37.60- 1968, ANSI (37.85-1972 Safety Requirements for Automatic Line Sectionalizers for AC Sys- tems Wagner and Evans, Symmetrical Com: ponents, New York: McGraw Hill Book Com- pany, 1933,MAINTENANCE OF AUTOMATIC CIRCUIT RECLOSERS, Coordination of protection and construction of distribution circuits, AIRE Committee Re- port, AIEE Transactions, vol 73, part IIIB, 1954, pp 1609-1624. Electrical Transmission and Distribution Reference Book, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania: Westinghouse Electric Corporation, 1950, 4th ed, chapter IT 7 TEBE Sta 821-1973 8. Revision of American National Standards Referred to in This Document When the American National Standards referred to in this document are superseded by a revision approved by the American National Standards Institute, Inc., the revision shall apply.ANSI ca7.sia97s GUIDE FOR THE APPLICATION, OPERATION, AND. Appendixes (These Appendixes are not a part of American National Standard and Circuit Reclosers, C37.61-1973, IEEE Std 321-1973) Operation, and Maintenance of Automatic TEBE Standard Guide for the Application, Appendix A Recloser Characteristics A general understanding of standard r. ings and operating characteristics and avail- able accessories is necessary for the proper application of automatic cireuit reclosers. Al. Standard Ratings AL.1 Voltage Rating. The maximum voltage ratings for various classes of reclosers are given in Column 3 of Table 2 of American National Standard Supplement C37.60a- 1971. AL.2 Interrupting Current Rating. The inter- rupting current ratings of the various classes of reclosers are given in Table 3 of American National Standard Supplement C37,60a- 1971. Note that the interrupting rating of a given line or class recloser is not the same for all continuous current ratings in that line. Reclosers are rated in symmetrical amperes with test power factors as indicated by the X/R ratios in Columns 9, 11, and 13 of Table 2 of American National Standard Supplement C37.60a-1971. These test power factors gener- ally will be more severe than those en- countered on systems where the reclosers are applied within the ratings. ‘The recloser is not a constant kilovolt-am- bere device, and its interrupting rating does not vary with voltage or X/R ratio. Therefore, if the applied voltage or the X/R ratio is less than rating, no increase in interrupting cur- rent capability should be assumed unless in- dicated in published data or approved by the manufacturer, A13 Minimum Tripping Current. For series trip reclosers this is standardized at two times the continuous current rating. The minimum tripping current for shunt trip reclosers is adjustable and has no standard relation to the rated continuous current. Information for specific reclosers should be obtained from the manufacturer. 18 A1.4 Continuous Current Ratings. These rat- ings are given in Table 3 of American Nation- al Standard Supplement C37.60a-1971. NOTE: Since reclosere that may igned to trip ata current substantially in excess of the continuous w, they may carry an overload for which they protecting. Information as to aperation in this ld be obtained from the manufacturer, A2, Operating Characteristics A21 Tripping and Control. Reclosers are classified as series trip or nonseries trip de- vices. A series trip recloser obtains the energy to trip its main contacts from the system fault current flowing through a solenoid or oper- ating coil which is electrically in series with the line, Since the operating coil carries main line current at all times, it produces a magnet ic force proportional to the product of the coil turns and line current (NI). Consequently, there is a definite relationship between con. tinuous current rating, minimum tripping current rating, and maximum interrupting current rating. The control for series trip coil reclosers is actuated by the operating coil solenoid. This Provides reliability and simplicity, but limits the choice of operating characteristics. The fast and time-delayed curves of the series trip recloser are not adjustable. A nonseries coil recloser may derive its energy for operating the tripping mechanism and opening the main contacts from a source other than the main circuit; for example, a battery. Consequently, there is no definite relationship between continuous current rat- ing, maximum interrupting current rating, and minimum tripping current rating. Fault current is sensed usually by current trans- formers, and the control is actuated by the resulting signal. The control may be elec- tromechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, or elec- tronic in nature. It is typically very flexible providing the user with a wide choice of oper- ating characteristics.MAINTENANCE OF AUTOMATIC CIRCUIT RECLOS A2.2 Recloser Functions. Reclosers may have either a lock-open or a hold-closed function. 42.2.1 Lock-Open Function. A recloser with this function opens and recloses its con- tacts on sensing fault current. If the fault is sustained in nature, the recloser proceeds to operate to a final contact-open position. To restore service, the recloser must be closed by the action of an operator. Typical operating sequences for lock-open reclosers include: (1) Two fast and two time-delay operations (2) One fast and two time-delay operations (3) One fast and three time-delay oper- ations (4) Three fast and one time-delay oper- ations (5) Two fast and one time-delay operations All of these sequences provide a high degree of protection against the effects of transient and sustained faults. They also permit ready coordination with other sectionalizing devices such as fuses and automatic line sectionali- zers. While reclosers may be set for all fast or slow operations, these sequences are seldom used in practice primarily because of coordi- nation difficulties. Time-current characteristic curves for lock. open reclosers are not standardized and must. be obtained from the manufacturer. Characteristic curves for reclosers usually begin at 200 percent of the full-load rating of the unit and extend to the maximum inter- tupting rating. Fast or instantaneous curves are plotted to the maximum clearing time for one opening, and all variations are negative, or to the faster side. Time-delay curves are plotted to the average clearing time for one opening and have a = 10 percent tolerance. Recloser operating times may vary with temperature. When oil or other liquid is used as the timing means, operation at sub-zero temperatures has been found to be slower than shown by the published curves. A typical time-current characteristic curve for a series trip. lock-open recloser is shown in Fig Al. 2.2.2 Hold-Closed Funetion. An alter native recloser operating scheme uses re. closers having a hold-closed function. The reclosers are set for a sequence of two in- stantaneous operations and then hold closed. The contacts are held closed as long as fault RS 19 TREE Sta 321-1973 Curve A Fast or Instantaneous Setting Cure B Slow or Time Delay Setting curvec Extended Time Delay Setting Fig Al ‘Typical Time-Current Curves of a Single- Phase, Hydraulically-Controlled Recloser Rated 100 A Continuous Current current flows through the recloser, the per- missible duration limited only by the thermal time-current characteristics of the series coil. When some other device on the load side of the circuit (usually a fuse) interrupts the fault current, the recloser automatically resets to the normal operating position. As with the lock-open function, the two instantaneous hold-closed sequences provide for clearing temporary faults without a prolonged inter- ruption. The thermal time-load character- istics of the series coil provide additional time for a wide range of sectionalizing fuse ratings to operate. Thus, within fuse coordination capabilities, more sectionalizing points can be used within the zone of protection of each recloser. A2.3 Reclosing Interval. The reclosing inter- val is the open-circuit time between an aut: matic opening and the succeeding automatic reclosing. On most single-phase reclosers thi time is fixed and cannot be adjusted. How- ever. on some reclosers the reclosing interval can be adjusted over a wide range. The min- imum reclosing interval must be long enough to allow the arc path to deionize. This inter val, where used, is normally applied as theANSI ca7.61-1979 first reclosing operation and is considered fast or instantaneous reclosing. Reclosers having solid state or static elec- tronic controls have independent adjustments for each reclosing interval. This offers the advantage of flexibility for considerations such as relay resetting times and fuse cooling periods A2.4 Reset Interval. The time required for the recloser to return to its initial operating condition. ‘The reset interval may be initiated from fault inception or from suecessful re- close. On series trip and some shunt trip reclosers, the reset interval is a fixed time. On reclosers having solid state or statie electronic controls, the reset time is adjustable to a very short interval when initiated by successful eclose, ‘The optimum reset time setting is one which is as fast as possible without allowing resetting during the reclosing periods to pre- vent reclosing and trip operations or “‘pump- ing.” In practice, this optimum setting is difficult to obtain except with reclosers having reset from successful reclose, in which re- setting is blocked in the presence of current above the minimum pickup level. When long GUIDE FOR THE APPLICATION, OPERATION, AND resetting times are used, multiple lightning strokes to a feeder, repetitive conductor slap due to wind, or other fault may cause recloser lockout, even though these repeating faults are of a temporary nature. A3. Accessory Equipment Manufacturers provide accessory equip- ment for use with reclosers which serve to increase the operational flexibility of this equipment and whose use frequently provides the solution to an operating or application problem. These accessories are not standard- ized and may not be available for all recloser classes or makes. While the following list is not all inclusive, it is representative of the accessories that are available: (1) Ground tripping accessory (2) Remote operating mechanism (3) Current transformers (# Current metering (6) Target accessory (6). Nonreclose attachment (7) Loop: automatic sectionalizing equip- ment Appendix B Procedure To Determine Maintenance Basis on Number of Operations of Oil-Filled Reclosers d, the standard operating duty shown in Table 2 of American National Stan- dard Supplement C37.60a-1971 provides a means for evaluating the useful life of a re- closer under standardized conditions. Since the fault duty is dependent on the location of each fault, it is necessary to assume typical fault conditions to use the recloser counter reading to indicate the total number of oper- ations. Example: Consider a recloser of 4000 A interrupting capacity, as shown on Line 3, Table 2, American National Standard Sup. plement 37.60a-1971 with test currents of 4000, 2000, and 800 A, which are 90-100 Percent, 45-55 percent, and 15-20 percent, respectively, of the interrupting rating. Since the standard operating duty is based on the 20 empirical formula: Operating duty - (Inter- rupted current) ' x (Number of operations), the total operating duty factor for the recloser can be calculated as follo 40008 x 12 Operations 2000 x 20 Operations = 180.0 x 10* 80015 x 32 Operations = 72.0 x 10¢ Total 64 Operations = 558.6 10 NOTE: 15 = 1x JT The duty factor for each of the recloser ratings shown in Table 2 of American Nation- al Standard Supplement C37.60a-1971, using the standard duty cycle and calculated as shown above, is shown in Table B1. NOTE: Refer to Appendix C, Basis of Derivation of Duty Factors and Standard Operating DutiesMAINTENANCE OF AUTOMATIC CIRCUIT RECLOSERS Table B1 Recloser Duty Factors Recloser Line No of Table 2.0 American National Standard Supplement C37.80s-1971 Duty Factors x 104 TREE Sta 321-1973, Assume a Line 3 recloser having a 4000 A interrupting rating and having a duty factor of 555.6% 10° (4000 x 0.75) = 16.4 x 10* per operation Permissible number of operations Recloser duty factor Duty factor per operation 7 165 2 208 555.6 10' _ 34 operations 4 556 16.4% 10° “at 3000 A 5 1399 If other fault currents have occurred, the s aoa accumulated effect, or sum of these oper- 8 3510 ations, can be calculated. a lone Example: Again using a Line 3 recloser rr 1308 having a duty factor of 555.6 x 10', assume 7 ao faults have occurred, as follows: 7 om Number of Fault Caleulatec FH 1958 Gpeitions Canents Caleulton But? za 10 800A 10X 3001-5 22.5 X 10% 12 10004 12x 10001 37.8 X 108 Using the duty factorsshown in Table Bit 38 HOOA._ BK 250012 as'0 x tos is possible to calculate the total number of interruptions permissible for any combination of fault currents. Example: How many operations can a re- closer perform if all of the faults are at 75 percent of maximum interrupting rating? 10 X 40001-5 Total 363.6 X 10* In the above example, the cumulative duty exceeds the duty factor for the rating, Thi indicates that recloser maintenance should be performed. Appendix C Basis of Derivation of Duty Factors and Standard Operating Duties The total operating duty factor for auto- matic circuit reclosers listed in Table B1 is a function of the interrupting rating and is normally established on the basis of the curve shown in Fig C1. The operating duty at the three test cur- rents used in the standard operating duty tests are apportioned as follows: Percent of Total Duty Factor 50 375 128 i000 ‘The number of unit operations at each test current of the standard operating duty test is calculated by dividing the total duty factor at the test current by the operating duty per interruption, where the operating duty per interruption is equal to J*. NOTE I = 1x VE This number is rounded off to the nearest multiple of four operations, except at max- imum interrupting rating, when this ap- proximation may distort the distribution greatly. At maximum interrupting, the near- est even number of operations should he used. After the unit operations at each test cur- rent have been determined, the total standard duty cycle is recalculated. If necessary, ad- justments in the number of unit operations (in multiples of four operations) at the 20 percent and 50 percent test currents may be made to bring the total duty factor close to the em-ANSI 037.61.1973 GUIDE FOR THE APPLICATION, OPERATION, AND 19 000 x 10% BO @ yae- x (Operations) 1000x104 So 9 yoo— Tota! Operating Duty Factor (Amperes) ' 100 /x104 | 1 L 2 34 8 6 Teal 2 3 4 5 67891 Interrupting Current Rating-Symmetrical Amperes x 103 At Rated Maximum Voltage Fig CL Recloser Duty Factor ‘Versus Interrupting Current RatingMAINTENANCE OF AUTOMATIC CIRCt pirical value determined from the curve of Fig cL. Example: Assume an oil circuit recloser having a symmetrical interrupting rating of 8000 A at rated maximum voltage. From the curve of Fig C1, the total duty factor should be 1470 10" ‘The duty factor apportioned to each test current will be as follows: Duty Cycle Test Current (Amperes) Operating Doty 13000 (200%) 798 x 104 (50%) 4000 (50%) 851 x 104 (37.5%) 1600 (20%) 184 x 108 (12.3%), 1470x 10 (100%) Calculate the operating duty per inter- ruption as follows: RECLOSERS ‘Test Current Operating Duty per (Amperes) Calculation __Unit Operation ‘8000 8000x 8000" 71.8 x 108 4000 4000 x Ya 25.3 x 104 1600 1600 x 160% 64x 108 23 TREE Sia 321-1973, Determine the number of unit operations at each test current as follows: ‘Total duty factor atthe test current Duty faetor per operation No of unit operations ‘Test Current Caleulated No of Unit Operations (Ampores) Unit Operations Rounded Off 8000) 10.3 10 4000 a3 20 1600 28.8 28 Recalculate the total duty factor as follows: Duty Factor Duty ‘Test Current per Operation Noof Factor (Ampares) x10" Operations x 104 8000 ns 10 ns 4000 25.3 20 508, 1600 o4 28 179 ‘Total Duty Factor = 1399" “This value is shown in Table B1 of Appendix B.