Experiment #04

To understand the operation of over current relay

 3-Phase Power Supply

Circuit Diagram:

Figure #4.1 (Circuit diagram)

Theory:

The overcurrent relay is defined as the relay, which operates only when the value of the current is
greater than the relay setting time. It protects the equipment of the power system from the fault current.
An overcurrent relay is a type of protective relay which operates when the load current exceeds a pickup
value. In a typical application, the over current relay is connected to a current transformer and calibrated
to operate at or above a specific current level.

Figure #4.2 (Over current relay)

In an over current relay, there would be essentially a current coil. When normal current flows through
this coil, the magnetic effect generated by the coil is not sufficient to move the moving element of the
relay, as in this condition the restraining force is greater than deflecting force. But when the current
through the coil increases, the magnetic effect increases, and after a certain level of current, the
deflecting force generated by the magnetic effect of the coil, crosses the restraining force. As a result,
the moving element starts moving to change the contact position in the relay. Although there are
different types of overcurrent relays but basic working principle of overcurrent relay is more or less
same for all.

Figure #4.3 (Characteristics of over current relay)

 As shown in the above block diagram, the mains AC power supplies the power to the whole circuit
and for operating loads by using relays, and also for tripping the load (lamps) in the presence of
the input voltage which falls above or below a set value.
 Two comparators used as a window comparator formed out of one quad comparator IC. This
operation delivers an error in the output if the input voltage to the comparator crosses the limit
beyond the voltage window.
 In this circuit, an unregulated power supply is connected to both op-amps terminals, wherein each
non-inverting terminal is connected through the two series resistors and a potentiometer
arrangement. Similarly, the inverting terminal is also powered through Zener diode and resistance
arrangements, as shown in the given under or overvoltage protection circuit.
 The Potentiometer’s preset VR1 is adjusted such that the voltage at non-inverting is less than 6.8V
for stable maintenance of load for the normal supply range of 180V-240V and the voltage of
inverting terminal is 6.8V constant due to Zener diode.
 Hence the op-amp output is zero under this range and thus the relay coil is de-energized and the
load is not interrupted during this stable operation.
 When the voltage is beyond the 240 V the voltage at the non-inverting terminal is more than 6.8, so
the operational amplifier output goes high. This output drives the transistor and thus the relay coil
gets energized and finally loads are turned off due to overvoltage.
 Similarly, for under voltage protection, lower comparator energizes the relay when the supply
voltage falls below 180 V by maintaining 6V at the inverting terminal. These under and
overvoltage settings can be changed by varying the respective potentiometers.
Observation &Calculations

SR Observed Tripping Set Point Calculated Tripping Nominal Timing

1 2.58 6% 2.65 2.5 Instantaneous

2 2.62 8% 2.7 2.5 Instantaneous

1 2.54 6% 2.65 2.5 Time Delay

2 2.63 8% 2.7 2.5 Time Delay

3 2.71 10% 2.75 2.5 Time Delay

Answer the following questions

1. Describe the reasons for overcurrent in a circuit.

Answer: Possible reasons for overcurrent include short circuits, excessive load, incorrect design, an
arc fault, or a ground fault. Fuses, circuit breakers, and current limiters are commonly
used overcurrent protection (OCP) mechanisms to control the risks.

2. Describe the bad impact of overcurrent on equipment.

Answer: In an electric power system, overcurrent or excess current is a situation where a larger
than intended electric current exists through a conductor. Too much power can lead to overheating,
possibly something catching fire or melting. Overheating can cause components to become damaged,
permanently changing their properties. Such damage will lead to problems, maybe failures.
 3. Draw the time current characteristics of inverse time over current relay, definite time
overcurrent relay, instantaneous time overcurrent relay, very inverse time overcurrent relay.

Answer:

Inverse-Time Overcurrent Relay

The relay operates only when the magnitude of their operating current is inversely proportional to the
magnitude of the energize quantities. The operating time of relay decreases with the increases in the
current. The operation of the relay depends on the magnitude of the current

The characteristic curve for the relay is shown in the figure below. The relay will not operate when the
value of current is less than the pick value. The relay is used for the protection of the distribution lines.
The inverse time relay is of three types.

4. Describe the different types of faults in a power system.

 Open Circuit Faults. These faults occur due to the failure of one or more conductors. ...
 Short Circuit Faults.
 Symmetrical and Unsymmetrical Faults.
 Fuse.
 Circuit Breaker.
 Protective Relays.
 Lighting Arrestor.