NU-LEC INDUSTRIES PTY LTD

(A Schneider Electric Company)

LOOP AUTOMATION USER MANUAL

FOR
NU-LEC INDUSTRIES RECLOSERS
WITH
CAPM 4+ BASED CONTROLLERS
AND
V26 SOFTWARE

SCOPE
This document describes the features and operation of the
Nu-Lec Industries Pty Ltd Loop Automation system.

Document Part No: N00-380

Document Revision Level: 06

COPYRIGHT NU-LEC INDUSTRIES PTY LTD 2001

 Loop Automation – User Manual

Nu-Lec Industries Pty Ltd

ACN 085 972 425
35-37 South Street
LYTTON 4178
Queensland
Australia
Tel +61 7 3249 5444
Fax +61 7 3249 5888

LIMITATIONS

This document is copyright and is provided solely for the use of the recipient. It is not to be
copied in any way, nor its contents divulged to any third party, nor is it to be used as the basis of
a tender or specification without the express written permission of Nu-Lec Industries Pty Ltd.
This document discloses confidential intellectual property that belongs to Nu-Lec Industries Pty
Ltd. Receipt of this document does not invest any rights to Nu-Lec Industries intellectual
property in the recipient.
Moreover, the recipient is required not to disclose any of the intellectual property contained in this
document to any other party unless authorised in writing by Nu-Lec Industries Pty Ltd.

Public Access: m:\stdprod\CAPM4\manuals\N00-380.DOC

Source: VSS\CAPM4\manuals\N00-380.DOC
 Loop Automation – User Manual

CONTENTS
GENERAL INFORMATION
1 Introduction................................................................................1
2 How to Use this Manual ............................................................1
3 About this Manual .....................................................................3
3.1 Aim of the Manual ............................................................................................ 3
3.2 Controller Version Covered by this Manual .................................................... 3
3.3 Software Version Covered by this Manual...................................................... 3
3.4 Software Identification System ........................................................................ 3
3.5 Year 2000 Compliance Statement.................................................................. 4
4 What Loop Automation Does ...................................................5
4.1 Types of Recloser ............................................................................................ 5
4.2 Fault Isolation and Network Re-Configuration................................................ 5
4.3 Auto-Restoration Option .................................................................................. 6
5 Understanding Isolation and Re-Configuration......................7
5.1 Overview........................................................................................................... 7
5.2 Faults in Other Sections of the Network ......................................................... 7
5.2.1 Fault In Section A ................................................................................... 7
5.2.2 Protection Groups .................................................................................. 7
5.2.3 Fault in Section C ................................................................................... 7
5.2.4 Faults in Sections D and E .................................................................... 8
5.3 Purpose of Feeder Recloser ........................................................................... 8
5.4 Asymmetric Tie Recloser Operation ............................................................... 8
5.5 Loss of Supply to the Zone Sub-Station ......................................................... 8
5.6 Loop Automation Timeout ............................................................................... 8
6 Understanding Auto-Restoration .............................................9
6.1 Overview........................................................................................................... 9
6.2 Auto-Restoration Examples............................................................................. 9
6.2.1 Auto-Restore from Fault in Section A.................................................... 9
6.2.2 Auto-Restore from Fault in Section B..................................................10
6.2.3 Auto-Restore from Fault Condition in Section C ................................10
7 Supply Auto-Changeover........................................................11
7.1 Overview.........................................................................................................11
7.2 Description......................................................................................................11
8 “Lockout” and “End of Sequence”........................................13
9 Introduction..............................................................................15
10 Loop Automation Timing ........................................................17
10.1 Overview.......................................................................................................17
10.2 Example Timing Diagram ............................................................................17
11 Procedure to Determine the Loop Automation Settings......19
11.1 Overview.......................................................................................................19
11.2 Procedure .....................................................................................................20
11.3 Example Setting Record..............................................................................21
12 Parameters Affecting Loop Automation................................23
12.1 Overview.......................................................................................................23
12.2 Description of Parameters...........................................................................23
13 Entering the Loop Automation Parameters ..........................29
13.1 Overview.......................................................................................................29
 Loop Automation – User Manual

13.2 Making Loop Automation Available.............................................................29

13.3 Loop Automation Configuration Page .........................................................29
14 Windows Switchgear Operating System .............................. 31
14.1 Overview .......................................................................................................31
14.2 Creating a New Loop Automation File ........................................................31
14.3 Configuring Loop Automation ......................................................................32
15 Introduction ............................................................................. 33
16 Operator Control Panel Displays........................................... 35
16.1 Overview .......................................................................................................35
16.2 Loop Automation Status Page.....................................................................35
16.3 Events Generated by Loop Automation......................................................36
17 Turning On Loop Automation ................................................ 37
17.1 Overview .......................................................................................................37
17.2 Limitations.....................................................................................................37
18 Turning Off Loop Automation................................................ 39
18.1 Overview .......................................................................................................39
18.2 User Actions which Turn Off Loop Automation...........................................39
18.3 Other Conditions which turn off Loop Automation......................................39
19 Commissioning ....................................................................... 41
19.1 Overview .......................................................................................................41
19.2 Feeder Preparation ......................................................................................41
19.3 Test Sequence .............................................................................................41
20 After There Has Been A Fault ................................................ 43
20.1 Overview .......................................................................................................43
20.2 Not Using Auto-Restore ...............................................................................43
20.3 Using Auto-Restore ......................................................................................43
20.4 Analysing What Happened..........................................................................43
Appendix A - Loop Automation Operating Rules ...................... 45
A1 Feeder Recloser..............................................................................................45
A2 Mid-Point Recloser..........................................................................................45
A3 Tie Recloser.....................................................................................................46
Appendix B - Network Configuration Examples ........................ 47
B1 Example Network One – Feeder, Mid-Point & Tie Reclosers ......................48
B2 Example Network Two – Substation CB, Feeder & Tie Reclosers ..............58
B3 Example Network Three – Feeder, Mid-point & Tie Reclosers ....................63
B4 Example Network Four – Auto-Changeover..................................................71
Appendix C - Settings Record ..................................................... 75
 Loop Automation – Introduction

1 Introduction
Loop Automation is a Distribution System Automation (DSA) scheme that will restore supply to
fault free sections of a network if they have been disconnected because of a fault in another
section of the network. Loop Automation can also restore the normal network configuration
automatically when the faulted section is repaired.
The distributed intelligence embedded in the reclosers operates the scheme without
communications or operator intervention by using the built-in voltage detection of Nulec
Industries reclosers. No additional equipment is required for Loop Automation.
1
Utilities, with or without SCADA communications, can easily introduce Loop Automation into
most network configurations.
N-Series or U-Series reclosers equipped with CAPM4 controllers need only a software upgrade
for Loop Automation. Reclosers with CAPM2 controllers can also be upgraded to CAPM4+ for
Loop Automation.
Please note:
• It is important to read this manual in conjunction with the recloser specific
technical manual/s.
• References to Operator Control Panel display pages appear as
{DISPLAY GROUP – PAGE TITLE: Text}.

2 How to Use this Manual

This manual is prepared in four important parts as follows:
• Part 1 – Understanding Loop Automation. This part gives the basic concepts
and principles which are essential reading to understand Loop Automation.
• Part 2 – Configuring a Loop Automation Scheme. This part explains more
about how Loop Automation works and gives the method for working out the
settings to ensure correct operation.
• Part 3 – Loop Automation In Service. This part provides recommendations for
installing and testing Loop Automation as well as advice on operational
procedures.
• Appendices - Network Examples. This part contains examples of Loop
Automation. This is a very useful extension to the manual which should be
studied to gain further understanding of Loop Automation.

WARNING
As with any arrangement where automatic operation takes place, a danger exists that
maintenance personnel may attempt to isolate a section of the network without realising that
supply to the section may be automatically restored via an alternate supply path.
It is therefore essential that Supply Authority personnel be fully trained in the operation and
maintenance of the Loop Automation systems prior to their introduction.
It is strongly recommended that each recloser that is part of Loop Automation is fitted with a
clearly visible external label, warning that the recloser is part of a Loop Automation scheme
and that it could automatically trip or close at any time.

1
SCADA Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition system

1
 Loop Automation – Introduction

3 About this Manual

3.1 Aim of the Manual
This manual describes the operation of Loop Automation and how Nu-Lec Industries reclosers
are configured to implement this scheme. It is intended for use by the following personnel:
• Linespersons.
• System Administrators.
• Network Supervisors.
While every care has been taken in preparation of this manual, no responsibility is taken for loss
or damage incurred by the purchaser or user due to any error or omission in this document.

3.2 Controller Version Covered by this Manual

This manual applies to CAPM4&5 based controllers. The Operator Control Panel displays the
CAPM type when it is turned on. If it does not show “CAPM4” or “CAPM5” then this manual
does not apply and you should contact Nu-Lec Industries or your local distributor for advice on
the correct manual to use.

3.3 Software Version Covered by this Manual

The electronic controller incorporates a software based microprocessor. The software version
and configuration (see Section 3.4 below) determine the functionality of the controller.
To confirm that this manual applies to the software/configuration loaded in the controller it is
necessary to display the Software Capability list on the Operator Control Panel. The list is found
on the {SYSTEM STATUS – CAPABILITY} page (advice on using the Operator Control Panel
is provided in the equipment specific technical manual).
Press the Select key and use the arrow keys to view the capability list. If the capability
declarations include:

Loop Automation Manual N00-380 R06+

then this manual applies, if not contact Nu-Lec Industries or your distributor.

3.4 Software Identification System

The software loaded into the controller has two important identifiers:
• The Software Version (XXX-XX.XX) identifies the exact software loaded into the
program memory on the controller.
• The Configuration Number (XXXXX) identifies the configuration loaded into the
database. This controls what the software will do, for example, whether the
operator text displays are to be displayed in English or another language.
To obtain technical support from Nu-Lec Industries or your distributor it is vital to note down the
software version and the configuration number of your equipment and to quote these when
making your inquiry. Without this information it is impossible for the customer service
department to identify the software and provide correct support.
The software version and the configuration number are both shown on the Operator Control
Panel, refer to the equipment specific Technical Manual to find this page.

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 Loop Automation – Introduction

A typical example of software version and configuration would be:

Software 026-12.00
Configuration 10087

3.5 Year 2000 Compliance Statement

This software complies with rules 1, 2, 3 and 4 of the British Standards Institute Year 2000
Conformity Requirement (DISC PD2000-1 A Definition of Year 2000 Conformity Requirements).
A copy of this statement can be found on the Nu-lec Industries Pty Ltd web site
(http://www.nulec.com.au/).

4
 Part 1 – Understanding Loop Automation

Part 1 – Understanding Loop Automation

4 What Loop Automation Does
Loop Automation reconfigures a network to return supply to fault free sections that have lost
supply due to a fault condition on another section of the network.

4.1 Types of Recloser

Loop Automation relies on the different reclosers in the network being correctly configured as
either a:
• Feeder Recloser - this recloser is positioned close to the sub-station.
• Tie Recloser - used as the open point where two feeders meet and is the
normally open point in the network.
• Mid-Point Recloser - this recloser is positioned anywhere on the network
between a Feeder and Tie recloser.

4.2 Fault Isolation and Network Re-Configuration

Consider the example network shown at Figure 1, Loop Automation Network. Note that it shows
a fault condition on Section B.
With Loop Automation enabled, the following operational sequence is initiated:
• Overcurrent protection trips the Feeder Recloser on the upstream side of the fault.
This is just the normal protection, not a Loop Automation function.
• The Feeder Recloser may trip and auto-reclose several times in an attempt to
clear the fault. It is only after the auto-reclose sequence has finished and the
recloser is locked out that the Loop Automation operation starts.
• Loop Automation then closes the Tie Recloser.
• The Mid-Point recloser trips under protection due to the fault on section B and
goes directly to lockout without an auto-reclose.
• This action isolates section B and reconfigures the network to provide supply to
section C.

Figure 1: Example of Loop Automation Network

5
 Part 1 – Understanding Loop Automation

The way it worked is that the Tie Recloser detected the loss of supply in section C when the
Feeder Recloser tripped and then closed itself automatically. The Mid-Point recloser also
detected the same loss of supply and so was ready to trip straight to lockout when the Tie
Recloser closed onto the fault.
The distributed algorithm that does this is further explained in Section 5.

4.3 Auto-Restoration Option

The process of isolating the faulted section and re-configuring the network to bring supply back
to the un-faulted sections is the first capability of Loop Automation.
In addition, Loop Automation can auto-restore the original network configuration when the fault
on section B is removed. It does this by:
• Detecting that section B has been re-energised by the linesperson who will have
closed either the Feeder or Mid-Point Recloser after repairing the fault.
• Automatically closing the remaining open point (either the Mid-Point or Feeder
Recloser) to close the network loop.
• Automatically opening the Tie Recloser.
• The normal configuration is now restored.
Note that this auto-restore capability is an option – if the network cannot be run as a closed loop
then auto-restore cannot be used and must be turned off.
The distributed algorithm that controls this is further explained in Section 6.

6
 Part 1 – Understanding Loop Automation

5 Understanding Isolation and Re-Configuration

5.1 Overview
The basic rules of Loop Automation which cause Isolation and Re-configuration are as follows:
Rule A. A Feeder Recloser trips when it loses supply.
Rule B. A Mid-point Recloser changes to the ‘B’ Protection Group and changes to
single-shot mode for a short time when it loses supply
Rule C. A Tie Recloser closes when it detects that supply to one side of the network
has been lost but it still has supply available on the other side.
These simple rules can isolate and reconfigure the network for all possible faults. The following
sections show how this works.
Note that the above rules are a simplification – the full rules are given in Appendix A .

5.2 Faults in Other Sections of the Network

What happens for faults in other sections of the network? Each scenario is explored below
using the network example as shown at Figure 1.

5.2.1 Fault In Section A

In this scenario, the Circuit Breaker (CB) at the zone-substation will open and supply will be lost
to the Feeder Recloser which will be then tripped by Loop Automation (Rule A).
Supply is also lost to the Mid-Point Recloser causing it to change to the ‘B’ protection group and
go to single shot mode (Rule B).
Similarly, supply is also lost to the Tie Recloser which now closes (Rule C) and restores supply
to the unfaulted B and C sections.
Note that this time the tie recloser does not close onto a fault.
After a delay the Mid-Point recloser will come out of single shot mode and be ready to auto-
reclose if there are new faults on section B.

5.2.2 Protection Groups

Note that after the Isolation and Reconfiguration process the Mid-Point recloser is now running
on the ‘B’ group of settings which must have been set up for correct co-ordination when the
network is fed in this “reverse” direction.
What about ensuring that the Tie Recloser has the correct settings? This depends on which side
the tie recloser detected as having lost supply. If it was the Load side it will close with the group
‘A’ settings active but if it was the Source side it will close with the group ‘B’ settings active.

5.2.3 Fault in Section C

In this scenario the Mid-Point recloser will trip to lockout on the fault and the Tie Recloser will
sense the loss of supply and will close onto the fault (Rule C). In fact, the Tie Recloser will have
set single shot mode before it closed so that when it closes onto the fault it immediately trips to
lockout.
Note that since the fault is located on the last section of line before the open point, there is no
section that can be restored by Loop Automation.

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 Part 1 – Understanding Loop Automation

5.2.4 Faults in Sections D and E

These are similar to sections A and C in that they are isolated and re-configured in a similar
manner. It is suggested that the reader methodically works through each section in turn with the
Rules to check that they will be correctly handled even without a mid-point recloser.

5.3 Purpose of Feeder Recloser

It is logical to ask the question "what then is the purpose of the Feeder Recloser, why could it not
have been a Mid-Point recloser "?
The answer is that the Feeder Recloser is always closest to the source of supply and must
never feed power in the reverse direction. This is the purpose of Rule A, to isolate the source
when it is lost so that Loop Automation does not try to reverse feed it.
On the other hand a Mid-Point Recloser has a different set of rules so that it can feed power in
both directions. Therefore a network does not have to have a Mid-Point Recloser but must
always have a Feeder Recloser.
Ideally the recloser in the zone sub-station is the Feeder Recloser in the Loop Automation
scheme because this allows maximum coverage of the network by the scheme.

5.4 Asymmetric Tie Recloser Operation

It may not be desirable to reconfigure the network on both sides of the tie point in some
networks. To allow this, the tie recloser has an option to automatically only if the Load Side
Supply is lost. This is called the “Tie Restore One Way” setting.
An example of this setting is given in Section 7.

5.5 Loss of Supply to the Zone Sub-Station

This can happen with a transformer fault or a transmission network fault. In this case both of the
Feeder Reclosers will trip as for a fault in Section A (Rule A). However, as the fault has caused
loss of supply to both sides of the Tie Recloser it will not be closed by Loop Automation (Rule C).
This could be a problem when supply is restored to the feeder recloser because it is now tripped
and will not supply the rest of the network. This possibility has been allowed for in the auto-
restoration rules (see Section 6 - Rule D).

5.6 Loop Automation Timeout

Loop Automation is triggered by supply voltage being lost or restored on the power lines. Loss of
power also occurs during a normal auto-reclose sequence.
Therefore, to prevent Loop Automation from doing anything during the normal auto-reclose
sequence, there is a time delay which must elapse before the Loop Automation algorithms start.
The delay is set by the user to be of greater duration than the longest auto-reclose sequence
and is called the Loop Automation Timeout.
After supply is lost the feeder and Mid-Point reclosers must obey rules A and B (Refer page 7)
before the tie recloser closes under Rule C. The Loop Automation Timeout is set for a longer
period in the Tie Recloser than the other reclosers to achieve this coordination.
The Loop Automation Timeout may typically be set to 30 seconds in the Feeder and Mid-Point
Reclosers and 40 seconds in the Tie Recloser.
Part 2 of this manual gives a detailed procedure for configuring these timers.

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 Part 1 – Understanding Loop Automation

6 Understanding Auto-Restoration
6.1 Overview
The Auto-Restore feature closes the Feeder and Mid-Point Reclosers and opens the Tie
Recloser to restore the normal network configuration after a fault condition has been cleared.
The basic rules of Auto-Restore are as follows:
Rule D. A Feeder Recloser closes when its source supply is restored if it was tripped
by Loop Automation, or when it has supply restored to both sides.
Rule E. A Mid-point Recloser closes when it has supply restored to both sides.
Rule F. A Tie Recloser trips when it detects a 50% reduction or a direction reversal in
the power flowing through it.
These simple rules will restore the network to its normal operating configuration after a faulted
section has been repaired, the following sections explain how this works.
Note that the above rules are a simplification – the full rules are given in Appendix A .

6.2 Auto-Restoration Examples

To gain an understanding of how Auto-Restoration works for the network fault conditions
discussed earlier, consider each of the following scenarios whilst referring to the network drawn
below each example.

6.2.1 Auto-Restore from Fault in Section A

In this scenario, the fault condition has initiated Loop Automation and supply is now restored
through the closed Tie recloser to Section C to the open Feeder recloser. The Mid-Point recloser
has remained closed and the substation CB has tripped.
When the linesperson physically clears the fault condition and closes the substation CB the
Feeder recloser will sense supply to both sides and close (Rule D).
With the Feeder recloser now closed a substantial proportion of the feeder load would be taken
up by the Zone Substation. The Tie recloser would therefore detect a significant drop in power
flow and trip (Rule F) restoring the normal network configuration.
Because Loop Automation has remained ON at the Tie there is no need to re-arm Loop
Automation at that recloser.

Figure 2: Auto-Restoration - Section A

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 Part 1 – Understanding Loop Automation

6.2.2 Auto-Restore from Fault in Section B

In this scenario, the fault condition has initiated Loop Automation and supply is now restored
through the closed Tie recloser to Section C to the Mid-Point (now open). The Feeder recloser is
also now open.
When the linesperson physically clears the fault condition, re-arms Loop Automation and closes
the Feeder recloser, the Mid-Point recloser will sense supply to both sides and close (Rule E).
Alternatively, the linesperson may clear the fault condition and then close the Mid-Point recloser.
The Feeder recloser will then sense supply at both sides and close (Rule D).
The Tie recloser will now detect either a 50% reduction or directional change of power flow
through it and trips (Rule F) so as to restore the network to normal configuration.

Figure 3: Auto-Restoration - Section B

6.2.3 Auto-Restore from Fault Condition in Section C

In this scenario, the fault condition has initiated Loop Automation and supply is lost to Section C.
The Mid-Point recloser is now open. The Tie recloser has gone to single shot, closed and then
tripped remain closed onto a fault condition. The linesperson physically clears the fault condition
and closes the Mid-Point recloser before re-arming Loop Automation.
The Tie recloser will now detect supply at both sides and remains open. The linesperson must
then re-arm Loop Automation at the Tie recloser.

Figure 4: Auto-Restoration - Section C

10
 Part 1 – Understanding Loop Automation

7 Supply Auto-Changeover
7.1 Overview
In addition to improving the quality of supply in a network, Loop Automation can also be used to
provide a secure supply to a critical load (eg. a hospital) by implementing an Auto-Changeover
(ACO) scheme.

7.2 Description
The following figure shows two reclosers, one normally open (Tie Recloser) and the other
normally closed (Feeder Recloser).

Figure 5: Loop Automation used with a Critical Load

Note that when using Loop Automation as an Auto-Changeover scheme, the Tie Recloser must
be configured to “Tie Restore One Way” so that it will not close to back-feed the alternative
supply if it is lost.
• For this to work correctly, the bushings on the side marked "A" must be configured
as the Source Side and the bushings on the side marked "B" as the load side.
At Loss of Supply:
• When the Feeder Recloser detects a loss of supply it trips (Rule A) and the Tie
Recloser closes (Rule C), restoring supply to the critical load from the alternate
source. This can only happen if the alternate supply is available.

11
 Part 1 – Understanding Loop Automation

If Auto-Restore is enabled:
• The Feeder Recloser will close (Rule D) when the normal power supply returns.
• The Tie Recloser will trip provided that the power flow through the tie reduces by
50% or more (Rule F).

Note: If "Break before Make" functionality is mandatory (ie: incompatible supplies) Loop
Automation cannot be used for Auto-Changeover. Nu-Lec Industries has separate
ACO software that caters for this requirement.

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 Part 1 – Understanding Loop Automation

8 “Lockout” and “End of Sequence”

For a recloser without any automation facilities enabled, a permanent fault will cause the recloser
to go through a sequence of trips and recloses, finally ending up with the recloser open in the
“Lockout” condition. The recloser will not close whilst in this state without operator intervention.
Where automation facilities are enabled it is possible that, even though a recloser has gone
through its reclose sequence to “Lockout”, the automation logic may command a close at some
later time.
In this instance, the recloser state cannot be described as "Lockout" as the word "Lockout"
implies that the recloser will not perform any further automatic operations until an operator
intervenes. Instead of "Lockout" the term "End of Sequence" is used.
For the Loop Automation scheme, Lockout and End of Sequence work like this:
• The normal ‘Lockout’ event is generated if no automation logic is enabled in the
recloser which could cause an automatic close at some time in the future.
Consequently, the {SYSTEM STATUS – OPERATOR SETTINGS} page shows
“LOCKOUT” status.
• A different event, ‘End of Sequence’, is generated instead of Lockout if automation
logic could at some time in the future generate an automatic close.
In this case {SYSTEM STATUS – OPERATOR SETTINGS} page shows a blank
field instead of advising the Lockout Status.
• If the automation system changes state so that it will not cause any future closes
then the ‘Lockout’ event is generated.
The {SYSTEM STATUS – OPERATOR SETTINGS} page shows “LOCKOUT”
status.

13
 Part 2 - Configuring a Loop Automation Scheme

Part 2 – Configuring a Loop Automation Scheme

9 Introduction
Loop Automation itself is not difficult to configure as it is just a matter of setting up the type of
ACR (Feeder, Mid-Point or Tie), setting the loop automation time and deciding if Auto-Restore is
required.
However, it must be strongly emphasised that Loop Automation relies on the basic protection
being set correctly so that the ACR nearest the fault trips to lockout. If this is not the case then
Loop Automation will not operate as expected.
The following topics are discussed within this part:
• Loop Automation Timing.
• Procedure to determine the Loop Automation Settings.
• Parameters affecting Loop Automation.
• Configuring Loop Automation at the Operator Control Panel.
• Configuring Loop Automation using the Windows Switchgear Operating System.

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 Part 2 - Configuring a Loop Automation Scheme

10 Loop Automation Timing

10.1 Overview
Reclosers in a Loop Automation scheme are primarily protection devices in that they trip when a
fault occurs and attempt a number of reclose operations as defined by the user.
Loop Automation only comes into effect after a set time has elapsed following the detection of a
loss of power. This allows reclosers to go through their normal protection sequence. Loop
Automation is not needed if the recloser is successful in clearing the fault and restoring supply
during this period.
Loop Automation should only take effect after there is no possibility of the supply being restored
by an auto-reclose from a recloser. To ensure that this occurs the "Loop Automation Time" must
be set for a period greater than the longest auto-reclose sequence possible, plus a safety margin
of several seconds. It is then the turn of Loop Automation to attempt a re-configuration of the
feeder network to restore supply to as much of the un-faulted network as possible.
It is also important to set the Tie Recloser Loop Automation Time for longer duration than the
Feeder and Mid-Point reclosers to make sure that it does not close before the other devices are
ready.
What is done in practice is to decide a co-ordination time between the various stages of the
Isolation and Reconfiguration sequence.

10.2 Example Timing Diagram

Figure 6 shows the timing of the Loop Automation algorithm. The following factors should to be
taken into consideration whilst studying the diagram:
• The diagram shows a fault condition which reduced system voltage and caused
an upstream Circuit Breaker (CB) to trip. The diagram shows the operation of the
Loop Automation Timers in each recloser (Feeder, Mid-Point and Tie).
• The Loop Automation timer is actually started by the Source Supply ON/OFF
events which are delayed by the Supply Timeout.
• All the Loop Automation reclosers will see the same loss of supply and
consequently start their Loop Automation Timers at the same time.
• The upstream CB recloses once and then locks out. The Source Supply event in
the controller is delayed by the Supply Timeout time. Once the "Source Supply
OFF" event occurs the Loop Automation timer starts.
• In this example, the first time the Loop Automation timer starts it is reset before
timing out by the Source Supply ON event which occurs during the reclose.
However once the upstream CB has gone to "Lockout" the Loop Automation
Timer times out and triggers the loop automation action. In the case of a Mid-
Point Recloser the action is to change settings to Group B and to set Single-Shot
mode. For a Feeder recloser, the action is to trip.
• In the example the system voltage is restored after a further interval when the Tie
Recloser closes. This illustrates that the Tie ACR must have a longer Loop
Automation time than the Feeder and Mid-Point ACRs. This interval is called the
co-ordination time.
Refer also to Appendix B which shows a number of examples and provides additional
information such as event records. These examples should also be studied until they are fully
understood.

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 Part 2 - Configuring a Loop Automation Scheme

Figure 6: Loop Automation Timing

18
 Part 2 - Configuring a Loop Automation Scheme

11 Procedure to Determine the Loop Automation Settings

11.1 Overview
There are four steps in the process of determining the required Loop Automation settings for a
network:
1. Sketch the network and identify each ACR.
2. Decide the global settings to be applied.
3. Determine the protection requirements for devices in all network configurations.
4. Determine the role, direction and timings of each device.
This section explains those steps and provides a working example of a network and how to
determine the settings required.
When carrying out these steps it is strongly recommended that you record the settings on the
template provided at Appendix C as well as entering them into the Windows Switchgear
Operating System (WSOS) configuration files.
As you work through the procedure, refer also to Section 12 for a detailed explanation of each of
the parameters.

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 Part 2 - Configuring a Loop Automation Scheme

11.2 Procedure
Step 1:
Sketch the network and identify each of the
ACRs.
Record general notes eg:
! ACR 4 is normally open.
! The dotted line feeder will supply the solid
line feeder back to ACR 1 automatically.
! Solid line feeder will supply the dotted line
feeder back to ACR 5 automatically.
! There is no auto-restore on ACR 2, 3 or 4
so restoration of normal configuration must
be carried out manually after the fault
condition is removed.
! Auto-restore is ON for ACR 1 and 5 so that
if they lose Source Supply and trip they will
close automatically when supply is
restored. Figure 7: Example Network
Step 2:
Decide the following global settings (refer also to Section 12 for explanation of parameters):
! Live Terminal Voltage -V V = 2000V
! Supply Timeout - ST ST = 1 second
! Co-ordination Time - T1 T1 = 10 second
! Single shot time - SS SS = 2 x T1 (SS = 20 sec)
! Maximum Sequence Time - T2 T2 = 30 sec
! Auto-changeover Time - AT AT = T1 + T2 (AT = 40 sec)
Step 3:
Determine the protection requirements for all devices in all network configurations:
! Mid-point ACR's will need two protection groups for feeding from either side.
! The Tie ACR will also require two protection groups if set to Restore Both Ways.
! When setting the protection groups, ensure that the maximum sequence time is met for all
faults which can cause loss of supply events.
Step 4:
Determine the following for each device:
! Deployed as either a Feeder, Mid-Point or Tie recloser.
! Direction of power flow in the normal network configuration.
! Auto-restoration Unavailable/ON/OFF.
! Loss of Phase / Loop Automation Linked or Unlinked.
! Loop Automation (LA) time:
(a) Feeder or Mid-Point - LA time = T2 + T1
(b) Tie - LA time = (2 x T1) + T2

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 Part 2 - Configuring a Loop Automation Scheme

11.3 Example Setting Record

The following record shows the range of information recorded whilst preparing a network for
Loop Automation configuration.

LOOP AUTOMATION SETTING SHEET

GLOBAL PARAMETERS LOOP AUTOMATION TIME

Live Terminal Voltage 2000V Supply Timeout 10 sec Feeder and Mid-Point ACR:
(ST) LA Time = T1 + T2
Co-ordination time 10 sec Single Shot Reset Time 20 sec
(T1) (2 x T1) = 40 seconds
Auto-changeover 40 sec Loop Automation Available Tie ACR:
(T1 + T2) LA Time = (2 x T1) + T2
LOP/Loop Automation No
UnLinked = 50 seconds

ACR TYPE SER SER LOCATION DIRECTION LA TIME AUTO-RESTORE AUTO-RESTORE TIE RESTORE
NO: NO: (sec) AVAILABLE ON - OFF ONE/TWO WAY

1 Feeder N ACR Whites Rd Source 1 40 Available ON N/A

7077

2 Mid- U ACR Lytton Rd Source 1 40 Not Available N/A N/A

point 7092 Nth

3 Mid- U ACR Lytton Rd Source 2 50 Not Available N/A N/A

point 6999 West

4 Tie N ACR Fisherman Source 2 40 Not Available N/A BOTH

7078 Island

5 Feeder N ACR Hemnant Source 2 40 Available ON N/A

7091 substation

NOTE: The information included within this example has no relevance to an existing network
and is included for example purposes only.

Figure 8: Setting Sheet

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 Part 2 - Configuring a Loop Automation Scheme

12 Parameters Affecting Loop Automation

12.1 Overview
Loop Automation incorporates a number of parameters that must be correctly configured to
ensure correct operation.
These parameters may be set using either the Operator Control Panel, refer Section 13 or
WSOS, refer Section 14.

12.2 Description of Parameters

All the parameters on the Loop Automation Setting Sheet are explained below whilst some
others are further explained in the equipment specific technical manual.
Parameter Description
Live Terminal Voltage. Determines the voltage level at which a terminal is considered to
be “live”. This value is used to generate Load/Source ON/OFF
events that trigger Loop Automation. Must be the same value in
all reclosers.
Typical value is 2000V. Refer to equipment technical manual for
further information.
{System Status 4: “LIVE” if > 2000V}.

Parameter Description
Supply Timeout. Determines the time between detecting a change of terminal
live/dead status and generating the “Supply On/Off” event.
(ST)
It is this event that triggers the start of the Loop Automation timer
and should be set to the same value in all reclosers.
The value of this parameter is set by utility practices. A value of
0.5 to 5.0 seconds is typical.
Refer to equipment technical manual for further information.
{System Status 4: Supply Timeout 5.0s}.

Parameter Description
Coordination Time. There has to be a delay between the actions of each the Loop
(T1) Automation devices. For example, the Mid-Point ACR must
change its protection group before the Tie ACR closes. This is
the coordination time.
Typical time is 10 seconds, minimum recommended time is 5.0
seconds.

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 Part 2 - Configuring a Loop Automation Scheme

Parameter Description
Single Shot Reset Time. The single-shot facility is used by Loop Automation to force one
shot to lockout in the Mid-Point and Tie ACR prior to the Tie
(2 x T1)
closing onto a faulted feeder.
Single-Shot timer must be set longer than the Loop Automation
coordination time (T1), twice as long is recommended.
{Protection Setting 2: SS Reset Time 1s}.

Parameter Description
Maximum Sequence Time. Loop Automation should only take control after there is no
(T2) possibility of the supply being restored by an auto-reclose from a
recloser. Therefore the Loop Automation Time must be longer
than the maximum time the recloser will take to trip to lockout.
This is called the Maximum Sequence Time.
Maximum Sequence time is determined by the protection
settings and the expected fault levels. It must include the Time
To Trip and the dead time for each reclose in the sequence. To
limit the Time To Trip it may be desirable to set a maximum time
to trip (refer equipment manual for protection parameters).
For example, a typical reclose sequence has an instantaneous
trip, a 1 second dead time followed by a second inverse time trip
with a max time of 5 seconds. This sets the Maximum
Sequence Time to be around 6 seconds.
If there is the possibility of low level faults with long trip times
(perhaps on fused spur lines) then these can take longer than
the Maximum Sequence Time provided that they do not reduce
the system voltage to a level where Loss of Supply events
occur.

Parameter Description
Auto Changeover Time. Determines the period of time that power (greater than 50 kW)
must flow in the reversed direction before an automatic change
(T1 + T2)
of protection group takes place.
Used in the Mid-point Recloser to change protection settings
when restoring the normal configuration. It is also used when
power flows to the alternate source in a closed Tie Recloser and
Loop Automation is turned off.
In a Loop Automation scheme this must be long enough to allow
an auto-reclose sequence to finish. Therefore it must be longer
than the Maximum Sequence Time (T2).
A time of T2 plus the Coordination Time is recommended.
Consult your switchgear manual for further information.

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 Part 2 - Configuring a Loop Automation Scheme

Parameter Description
Live Load Blocking. This setting takes priority over Loop Automation closing and
should be turned OFF when Loop Automation is used. Consult
ON/OFF
your equipment technical manual for further information.
Factory default is “OFF”

Parameter Description
Loop Automation. Enables or disables the entire Loop Automation facility.
Available/Not Available. When set to "Not Available", the Loop Automation pages are
hidden in Software version 24-00.00 and later.
This must be set to Available in all ACR's used in the Loop
Automation scheme.
Factory default is “Not Available”

Parameter Description
ACR No: This field identifies the device within the network.
For documentation purposes only.

Parameter Description
Type. Determines whether the ACR operates as a Feeder, Mid-Point
or Tie Recloser.
Range: Feeder ACR, Mid-point ACR, Tie ACR.
Factory default is “Tie ACR”.

Parameter Description
Series. This field records the style of ACR as N-Series or U-Series.
For documentation purposes only.

Parameter Description
Name (serial No:) This field records the plant name and/or serial number for the
device.
For documentation purposes only.

Parameter Description
Location. This field records the location of the device.
For documentation purposes only.

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 Part 2 - Configuring a Loop Automation Scheme

Parameter Description
Direction. Designates which terminals of the ACR are the source and load
sides in normal configuration.
For the Feeder recloser this is only important if auto-restore is
used.
For the Mid-Point ACR this affects the selection of the protection
group which is set automatically by the direction of the power
flow when the Tie is closed. Therefore if the direction parameter
is not right the wrong protection group will be in service.
For the Tie ACR this affects the protection group selection as for
the Mid-Point and, in addition will affect the Tie Restore One
Way direction, if set wrong then the Tie will operate for loss of
supply on the wrong side.
This parameter can only be set after field installation when the
installation details are known.
Range: Source 1 or 2 - Load 2 or 1 in the N-Series and
Source I or X - Load X or I in the U-Series
Factory Defaults are: Source 1 - Load 2 for the N-Series
Source I - Load X for the U-Series

Parameter Description
Loop Auto Time. Determines the delay after a Supply On/Off event before the
Loop Automation program takes action. The same timeout
(LA)
value is used both when supply is lost and during Auto Restore
operation.
Range: 3 to 1800 seconds
Factory Default is “30 seconds”

Parameter Description
Auto Restore Available. Enables or disables the Auto Restore facility. This is a security
feature and ensures the Auto Restore features cannot be turned
on unless this field is first set to “Auto Restore Available”.
Note that the network must be able to operate closed up if Auto
Restore is used.
Range: Available, Not Available.
Factory default is “Auto Restore Not Available”

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 Part 2 - Configuring a Loop Automation Scheme

Parameter Description
Auto Restore ON/OFF. Turns on the Auto Restore features. Note that for U-Series
additional external voltage sensors must be fitted to units that
require Auto-Restore.

Range: Auto Restore On, Auto Restore Off

Factory default is “Auto Restore Off”

Parameter Description
Tie Restore. Only applies to Tie ACR.
This field is only displayed if “Recloser Type” is set to Tie ACR.
This field sets whether a Tie ACR reconfigures supply in both
directions, or just from Source to Load.
Set Tie Restore Both Ways if you want to restore symmetrically
across the tie recloser.
Range: One Way, Both Ways.
Factory default is “Tie Restore One Way”

Parameter Description
Loop Automation ON/OFF. Turns ON or OFF the Loop Automation function.
Range: Loop Automation On, Loop Automation Off.
Factory default is “Loop Automation Off”

Parameter Description
LOP/Loop Unlinked Advises that Loss of Phase and Loop Automation are not linked
together.
Loss of Phase and Loop Automation operate independently.
This field is "display only" when Loop Automation is not
available.
Factory default is “LOP/Loop Unlinked”

Parameter Description
LOP/Loop Linked This password protected field may be set only when Loop
Automation is made available.
Loss of Phase protection will now turn on and off automatically
with Loop Automation.
Factory default is “LOP/Loop Unlinked”

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 Part 2 - Configuring a Loop Automation Scheme

13 Entering the Loop Automation Parameters

13.1 Overview
The Loop Automation Availability and Configuration pages are located in the System Status
display group in the Operator Control Panel:
• Loop Automation is made available at {SYSTEM STATUS – Options 2}
• Loop Automation is configured at {SYSTEM STATUS – Loop Automation
Configuration}.
Wherever the capital letter "P" appears next to a field in the following examples, a password
must be entered prior to reconfiguring that field.

13.2 Making Loop Automation Available

From the Operator Settings page, press the ⇒ arrow key until the System Status Options 2 page
appears.
The fields provided at the {SYSTEM STATUS – Options 2} screen allow an engineer make the
scheme available or not available and to link the scheme with another protection feature if
required.
The options available are as follows:
• Loop Automation Available or Not Available.
• Loss of Phase protection and Loop Automation Linked or Unlinked.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - - - OPTIONS 2 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - S
DIRB Available P Loop Auto Not Available 1 P
DIRB Not Available Loop Auto Available
LOP/Loop Unlinked P Dead Lockout OFF P
LOP/Loop Linked Dead Lockout ON

Once all fields are configured, a typical display may be as follows:

--------------- OPTIONS 2 ----------------S

DIRB Not Available Loop Auto Available
LOP/Loop Unlinked Dead Lockout ON

13.3 Loop Automation Configuration Page

When {SYSTEM STATUS – OPTIONS 2: Loop Automation Available} is configured, continue
to press the ⇒ arrow key until the Loop Automation Configuration page appears.
The fields provided at the {SYSTEM STATUS – Loop Automation Configuration} screen allow
an engineer to set up the main Loop Automation parameters. A number of other parameters will
also need to be set up for the scheme to work correctly, refer to Section 12.

1
For software versions 26-00.00 and later, setting this field "Not Available"
hides the Loop Automation Status and Configuration pages.
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 Part 2 - Configuring a Loop Automation Scheme

The parameters available are as follows:

• If the ACR is configured as either a Feeder, Mid-Point or Tie Recloser.
• If Auto Restoration is ON or OFF.
• If Auto Restoration is Available or Not Available.
• If Tie Restore is set One Way or Both Ways (Tie ACR option only).
• The Loop Automation Time.
- - - - - - - - LOOP AUTOMATION CONFIGURATION - - - - - - - - - - -- - S
Feeder ACR P Auto Restore ON P
Mid-point ACR Auto Restore OFF
Tie ACR
Auto Restore Not Available P
Auto Restore Available
Tie Restore One Way P Loop Auto Time 30s P
Tie Restore Both Ways

Once all parameters are configured, a typical display may be as follows:

-------Loop Automation Configuration------S

Feeder ACR Auto Restore ON
Auto Restore Available
Tie Restore Both Ways Loop Auto Time 30s

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 Part 2 - Configuring a Loop Automation Scheme

14 Windows Switchgear Operating System

14.1 Overview
Windows Switchgear Operating System (WSOS) is a software package for controlling Nu-Lec
switchgear from a Personal Computer. Controller interface is via a local or remote serial port
connection.
Loop Automation can be configured from WSOS.

CAUTION
It is important to note that writing a WSOS File to the CAPM will automatically turn Loop
Automation Off. This is so that a configuration which had Loop Automation set to “ON” when it
was saved, does not inadvertently turn it “ON” when loaded into the controller.

14.2 Creating a New Loop Automation File

Loop Automation is not available when opening a new file. WSOS must be opened and then
configured in OFF-LINE mode to create the file as follows:
• Select: OFF LINE.
• Select: Customise.
• Select: Select CAPM Capability and Protocol.
• Enter <NULEC> in password field.
• Select: OK.
• At the following screen, highlight Loop Automation and select Add- to transfer into
the Selected Capability box (this action not required if a read file has been
performed on a CAPM with Loop Automation already installed).
• Select: OK to exit this screen.

Figure 9: CAPM4 Configure Capability and Protocols (Off Line)

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 Part 2 - Configuring a Loop Automation Scheme

14.3 Configuring Loop Automation

• Select: Display.
• Select: Loop Automation.
• At the following screen, select the Available button.
• The required parameters for Loop Automation configuration may now be entered.

Figure 10: CAPM4 Loop Automation Configuration (Off Line)

Figure 11: Example of WSOS Loop Automation (On-Line)

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 Part 3 - Loop Automation in Service

Part 3 - Loop Automation in Service

15 Introduction
Loop Automation is simple to use in service.
The preparation sequence required to be completed by the utility is as follows:
• Load the correct software version into each controller as necessary (consult Nu-
Lec Industries or your local agent if required).
• Load the correct Loop Automation and protection settings into each controller.
This can be done manually or preferably using WSOS. It is advisable to use the
setting sheet template at Appendix C to record the settings for future reference.
• Turn on Loop Automation at each controller.

WARNING
If switching is planned within the network, don't forget to turn off Loop Automation at any
reclosers which might be affected. If not turned off, they may operate due to Loop Automation.
After there has been a network fault Loop Automation may have operated to isolate the faulted
section and restore supply to the unfaulted sections. This must be taken into account when
analysing the fault.

The following topics are discussed within this part:

• Operator Control Panel Displays.
• Turning ON Loop Automation.
• Turning OFF Loop Automation.
• Commissioning.
• Post-fault condition action.

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 Part 3 - Loop Automation in Service

16 Operator Control Panel Displays

16.1 Overview
Loop Automation adds two new pages into the System Status display group of the switchgear
controller:
• The Loop Automation Status page -see below.
• The Loop Automation Configuration page – see Section 13.2.
Loop Automation also displays messages on the title line of the Operator Control Panel and
generates events in the event log.

16.2 Loop Automation Status Page

The Loop Automation Status page is the first page to appear when the Operator Control panel is
turned on.
The page shows:
• Whether Loop Automation is ON or OFF.
• If the ACR is configured as either a Feeder, Mid-Point or Tie Recloser.
• Loop Automation status messages on the bottom two lines of the display. These
messages are displayed in plain English and are self-explanatory.
• Loop Automation may be turned ON or OFF by an operator by pressing the
SELECT button and then pressing the ⇒ arrow. The ENTER button must be
pressed to confirm the selection.
• The display advising the Type of ACR is an operator information message only.
• Note that this page is hidden if {SYSTEM STATUS – Loop Automation
Configuration: Loop Auto Not Available} is set to Not Available.
• Access to each field:
"O" means that Operator Access is possible.
"D" means that this is a Display Field only.
"P" means that this is a Password Protected field.

- - - - - - - - - Loop Automation Status - - - - - - - - - -S

Loop Automation ON O Feeder ACR D

Loop Automation OFF Mid-Point ACR

Tie ACR

Loop Automation messages

e.g. 'Loop Automation Normal'

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 Part 3 - Loop Automation in Service

Once all parameters are configured, a typical display may be as follows:

-------Loop Automation Status------S

Loop Automation ON Feeder ACR

Loop Automation Normal

16.3 Events Generated by Loop Automation

The following events may be logged as a result of the operation of Loop Automation.

Event Text Explanation

End of Sequence. Generated when a protection sequence has
finished but Loop Automation may still cause an
automatic close.
Lockout. Generated when Loop Automation changes state
so that an automatic close will not be generated
(only applicable if an end of sequence event has
been generated previously).
Loop Auto Close Req. Loop Automation requests CLOSE.
Loop Auto OFF. Loop Automation is turned OFF.
Loop Auto ON. Loop Automation is turned ON.
Loop Auto Trip Req. Loop Automation requests TRIP.
Prot Group A Active. Loop Automation has changed the Protection
Group setting from B to A.
Prot Group B Active. Loop Automation has changed the Protection
Group setting from A to B.

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 Part 3 - Loop Automation in Service

17 Turning On Loop Automation

17.1 Overview
Loop Automation is always turned on (made active) by a deliberate user action either from the
Operator Control Panel status page, via WSOS or remotely using a SCADA system.

17.2 Limitations
Loop Automation cannot be turned on if any of the following conditions exist:
• Loop Automation is set to "Not Available".
• The Trip or Close Isolate switches are set to isolate.
• The switch mechanism has failed.
• The switch is in Low Gas Lockout state.
• Switchgear data is invalid.
• Battery is abnormal.
• Trip/Close capacitor charging has failed.
The three types of reclosers must be in their normal operating state before Loop Automation can
be turned on:
• Feeder Recloser Closed.
• Mid-point Recloser Closed.
• Tie Recloser Open.

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 Part 3 - Loop Automation in Service

18 Turning Off Loop Automation

18.1 Overview
Loop Automation can be turned off by a deliberate operator action, or automatically as detailed
below.
When Loop Automation is turned off the protection group selection defaults back to {SYSTEM
STATUS – OPERATOR SETTINGS: Protection Auto} unless the operator has explicitly
changed it to another setting.

18.2 User Actions which Turn Off Loop Automation

Loop Automation turns off when:
• An operator manually closes or trips the recloser. This can be from any control
point, including a local operator, SCADA system or the IOEX inputs.
• Changes are made to any protection or operator settings other than changing an
active protection group.
• Changes are made to any of the existing ground fault, sensitive ground fault
protection settings in any Protection Group.
• An operator changes any Loop Automation settings.

18.3 Other Conditions which turn off Loop Automation

Loop Automation turns off when:
• The controller is powered up.
• The recloser trips to the end of its sequence and Auto-Restore is off.
• Any of the action conditions detailed in Section 17 that would prevent turning on
Loop Automation occur.

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 Part 3 - Loop Automation in Service

19 Commissioning
19.1 Overview
When Loop Automation is installed and configured it is possible to check its operation in the field
on an energised feeder with the use of the Secondary Voltage Injection Interface Set (SVIIS).
Note that the ACR will trip and close as the test progresses.

19.2 Feeder Preparation

Prepare each device as foillows:
• A Feeder or Mid-Point ACR should be closed at the start of the test and bypassed
to prevent customer interruption.
• A Tie ACR should be open at the start of the test and it must be acceptable for a
Tie ACR to close.

19.3 Test Sequence

The test sequence is as follows:
1. Before bypassing a closed ACR check that the power flow is in the expected direction on
the Measurement Page.
2. Bypass the ACR but leave it connected to the lines so that voltage signals are present.
You may find that the ACR will now detect an earth fault because the bypass impedance
is not perfectly balanced. In this case turn Earth Fault off.
3. Power down the Control Cubicle and connect the SVIIS between the control cubicle and
the ACR. Set all the input switches on the SVIIS to “Switchgear”.
4. Power up the Control cubicle and check the System Status Live/Dead Display shows all
terminals Live.
5. Turn the three switches on the SVIIS that correspond to the source side terminals to
“Input” – this will cause the controller to think that source supply has been lost. Observe
the event log and check that a Source Supply OFF event takes place at the expected
time. Then turn the switches back to “Switchgear” and check that a Source Supply ON
event takes place. Do the same for the other three switches and check that Load Supply
OFF/ON event occur. This check has confirmed that the source and load have been
configured correctly.
6. Now go to the Loop Automation status page and turn Loop Automation ON. Once again
turn the three source side switches on the SVIIS to “Input” – this will cause the controller
to think that source supply has been lost. Observe the Loop Automation status display
and follow the messages on the screen. Check that the action and timing of Loop
Automation is what you expect. In brief: a feeder ACR should Trip, a Tie ACR should
close and a Mid-Point ACR should change protection group and go to single shot for a
period.
7. Next, turn the switches back to “Switchgear”, this simulates the supply being restored.
Observe the Loop Automation status display and follow the messages on the screen.
Check that the action and timing of Loop Automation is what you expect. In brief: if auto-
restore is ON then a feeder ACR should close and a tie/mid-point should not change.
8. For a closed Tie ACR check that the direction of power flow is as expected (it may not
be easy to predict the direction of power flow).

41
 Part 3 - Loop Automation in Service

9. To finish turn off Loop Automation, turn OFF the controller. Remove the SVIIS and put
the ACRs into the required state. Turn ON the controller and remove any bypasses.
Then turn Loop Automation ON.

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 Part 3 - Loop Automation in Service

20 After There Has Been A Fault

20.1 Overview
The first thing to do is to find and fix the fault. This will usually then be tested by closing one of
the ACR’s on either side of the isolated section and seeing if it trips again.
What happens next depends on the configuration of the Auto-Restore feature and its resulting
effect on Loop Automation.

20.2 Not Using Auto-Restore

In this case the sequence of actions is:
• Locate and remove the fault condition.
• Close one of the open ACRs to test the faulted section. If the section is now
unfaulted then restore the normal network configuration in the usual way, (for
example close the other open ACRs and then open the tie ACR). This can be
done either by visiting each device individually or by using a remote control
system (SCADA).
• Turn on Loop Automation at each device when it has been switched to its normal
state.

20.3 Using Auto-Restore

In this case the sequence of actions is:
• Locate and remove the fault condition.
• Close one of the open ACRs to test the faulted section. If the section is now
unfaulted then after the Loop Automation Timeout the other open ACR will be
closed automatically by Auto-Restore. Note that Loop Automation will still be ON
at these ACRs.
• Turn ON Loop Automation at the ACR which was closed manually.
• Check that the tie ACR has been opened automatically by Auto-Restore (if Auto-
Restore has been turned on at the tie) and that supply is present on both sides of
the tie. If the tie has not opened it is probably because the change on load flow
was insufficient to trigger the auto-restore. In this case open the tie manually,
check supply is present on both sides and turn Loop Automation back on. If
supply is not present on both sides then there is a network problem that needs to
be investigated and fixed.

20.4 Analysing What Happened

If the actions of Loop Automation are not as expected the likely cause is:
• One of the members of the scheme did not have Loop Automation turned on.
• The settings were incorrectly coordinated between the different members of the
Loop Automation. In this case recheck the settings method given in Section 11.
• There was more than one fault on the network. In this case protection will have
operated in the one of the devices to isolate the faulted section. There should not
be any increased outages due to the actions of Loop Automation.
In all cases it is suggested to examine the examples in Appendix B to increase your
understanding of Loop Automation.

43
 Loop Automation Operating Rules

Appendix A - Loop Automation Operating Rules

In the following tables the Sequence (Seq) column indicates if the rule is applied during Isolation
and Reconfiguration ( I ), (Section 4.2), or during Auto-Restoration ( R ), (Section 4.3).

A1 Feeder Recloser

RULE ACR Auto

No: State Restore Event Action Seq

1 Closed Off Source Supply lost for longer ACR Opens and Loop I
than Loop Auto Time. Automation is turned off.

2 Closed On Source Supply lost for longer ACR Opens. I

than Loop Auto Time.

3 Closed Off Protection trip to Lockout. ACR Opens and Loop I

Automation is turned off.

4 Closed On Protection trip to end of ACR Opens and Loop I

sequence. Automation stays on.

5 Open On Source Supply is restored and ACR Closes. R

ACR was initially tripped by
Loop Automation.

6 Open On Supply is restored to both sides ACR Closes. R

of ACR. Either at the source
then load or load then source.

A2 Mid-Point Recloser

RULE ACR Auto

No: State Restore Event Action Seq.

7 Closed On or Off Source Supply lost for longer Switch to Protection B. I

than Loop Auto Time.

8 Closed Off Protection trip to Lockout. ACR opens and Loop I

Automation is turned off.

9 Closed On Protection trip to end of ACR opens and Loop I

sequence. Automation stays on.

10 Open On Supply is restored to both sides Switch to Protection A R

of ACR. and close ACR.

45
 Loop Automation Operating Rules

A3 Tie Recloser

RULE Restore
No: ACR Auto Both
State Restore Ways Event Action Seq.

11 Open On or On or Off Supply to both sides is No Action. I

Off lost for longer than Loop
Auto Time.

12 Open On On or Off Supply to load side is ACR Closes if alternative I

lost for longer than Loop supply is present.
Auto Time.

13 Open Off On or Off Supply to load side is ACR Closes if alternative I

lost for longer than Loop supply is present and
Auto Time. turns Loop Automation
off.

14 Open On On Supply to source side is Activates Protection I

lost for longer than Loop Group B and ACR
Auto Time. Closes.

15 Open Off On Supply to source side is Activates Protection I

lost for longer than Loop Group B, ACR Closes
Auto Time. and turns Loop
Automation off.

16 Open On or Off Supply to source side is No Action. I

Off lost for longer than Loop
Auto Time.

17 Closed On On or Off Protection trip to ACR opens and Loop I

lockout. Automation is turned off.

18 Closed On On or Off Power flow changes by ACR opens. (If supply is R

50% or more for Loop subsequently lost to
Auto Time. either side then ACR
closes and Loop
Automation turns off).

19 Closed On On or Off Power flow changes by ACR stays closed and R

50% or more but returns Loop Automation is
to previous level before turned off.
Loop Auto Time
expires.

46
 Network Configuration Examples

Appendix B - Network Configuration Examples

Overview
The flexible nature of Nu-Lec Industries Pty Ltd Loop Automation scheme allows it to be used in
a wide range of network configurations. A number of simple configuration examples have been
included to demonstrate how the system will operate in different situations. These examples
use different fault scenarios to illustrate the operation of Loop Automation.
In all of the examples, a normally open Tie Recloser is located at the end of the Feeder with an
alternate source of supply behind it. The alternate supply may be another feeder supplied from
the same substation, or it may be from an entirely different substation.

Composition
The first two examples include an existing substation CB. Usually these cannot be programmed
into the Loop Automation logic. Under these circumstances, there is a small limitation in the fault
isolation sequence because the feeder section between the substation CB and the Feeder
Recloser cannot be back-fed through the Tie Recloser. This limitation can be overcome by
installing a Nu-Lec Industries recloser in place of the substation CB.
Arrows shown next to the reclosers indicate the direction of positive power flow as configured in
the recloser controller. This defines the source side and load side of the reclosers.
The different configurations in the examples in this appendix describe:
• How permanent faults at various points along the feeder are isolated.
• How supply may be reconfigured to un-faulted feeder sections.
• The restoration sequences for each fault scenario. For each scenario the
description first covers the case where {Loop Automation Configuration: Auto
Restore} is ON and then covers the case where {Loop Automation
Configuration: Auto Restore} is turned OFF.

Configuration
In all cases Loop Automation relies on the protection settings of the substation Circuit Breaker
(CB) and reclosers being coordinated correctly so that the CB or recloser closest to the fault trips
first.
If this is not the case then Loop Automation will not be able to reconfigure supply to all un-faulted
sections of the feeder. A Feeder Recloser can be used in place of a substation CB. This may
permit substantial cost savings in some circumstances.
The Feeder Recloser is programmed to open when loss of supply is detected from the
substation CB. This is necessary in order to prevent the substation being back-fed through the
Tie Recloser from another source of supply. When supply is restored from the substation CB
the Feeder CB can be configured to close automatically, restoring the normal configuration.
When loss of supply is detected on both sides of a Tie Recloser it will not close (to try and
reconfigure supply). This is to cater for the case where both the main and alternate sources of
supply have failed, e.g. where both supplies are fed from the same substation.

47
 Network Configuration Examples

B1 Example Network One – Feeder, Mid-Point & Tie Reclosers

This example shows a Loop Automation scheme using Nu-Lec Industries reclosers for the
Feeder, Mid-Point and Tie.
The substation has its own circuit breaker. In the normal state the substation CB, Feeder and
Mid-point Reclosers are closed and the Tie is open with an alternative supply source behind it.
The feeder sections are supplied through the substation CB, Feeder and Mid-point reclosers up
to the Tie point.

Figure 12: Example One - Network Configuration

Default Settings for Examples:

Each of the fault isolation sequences are shown along with a sequence of events based on the
event log.
In order to show the relevant timings between recloser event logs, it has been assumed in all the
examples that:
• The initial fault occurred at 12:30:00.00 on 01/04/99.
• The Supply Timeout is set to 1 second.
• The {Loop Automation Configuration: Loop Auto Time} for the Feeder Recloser
is set to 29 seconds.
• The {Loop Automation Configuration: Loop Auto Time} for the Mid-point
Recloser is set to 29 seconds.
• The {Loop Automation Configuration: Loop Auto Time} for the Tie Recloser is
set to 39 seconds.

48
 Network Configuration Examples

B.1.1 Fault Condition Before the Feeder Recloser

Using the configuration shown at Figure 10 as a starting point, a fault condition occurs on the
section of feeder between the substation CB and the Feeder Recloser.
Recloser Actions:

Step 1

Substation CB trips to lockout

and isolates the fault from the
supply source.

Figure 13: Fault occurs before Feeder Recloser

Step 2

30 seconds after the initial fault.

! The Feeder Recloser opens
to isolate the fault from the
alternate source of supply.
! The Mid-point Recloser
changes to protection group
“B” in preparation for a
change in power flow
direction.

Figure 14: Feeder Recloser isolates fault

Step 3

40 seconds after the initial fault:

! The Tie Recloser closes
restoring supply to the un-
faulted sections of the feeder.

Figure 15: Tie Recloser reconfigures supply

49
 Network Configuration Examples

Sequence of Events:
Feeder Recloser Mid-Point Recloser Tie Recloser
01.00 Source Supply OFF 01.00 Source Supply OFF
01.00 Load Supply OFF 01.00 Load Supply OFF 01.00 Load Supply OFF
30.00 Loop Auto Trip Req 30.00 Prot Group B Active
1
30.00 Loop Auto OFF
40.00 Loop Auto Close Req
1
40.00 Loop Auto OFF
41.10 Source Supply ON
41.10 Load Supply ON 41.10 Load Supply ON 41.10 Load Supply ON
Note 1: If Auto Restore is OFF Note 1: If Auto Restore is OFF

Restoration Scenarios:
If {Loop Automation Configuration: Auto Restore} is set to “ON”:
• Linesperson clears fault.
• Linesperson closes substation CB.
• Feeder Recloser senses restoration of supply and closes automatically.
• Tie Recloser senses the change in power flow and opens.
With the Feeder Recloser now closed a substantial proportion of the feeder load would be taken
up by the Zone Substation. The Tie Recloser would therefore detect a significant drop in power
flow and trip, restoring the normal feeder configuration.
Since Loop Automation remains On in the Tie Recloser the linesman would not need to travel to
the Tie to re-arm Loop Automation.
If {Loop Automation Configuration: Auto Restore} is set to “OFF”:
• Linesperson clears fault.
• If supplies can be connected together, Linesman closes substation CB.
• Linesperson closes Feeder Recloser and re-arms Loop Automation.
• Linesperson opens Tie Recloser and re-arms Loop Automation in the Tie
Recloser.

50
 Network Configuration Examples

B.1.2 Fault Between Feeder Recloser and Mid-point Recloser

In this example a fault occurs on the section of the feeder between the Feeder Recloser and the
Mid-point Recloser.
Recloser Actions:
Step 1:

The Feeder Recloser trips to end

of sequence to isolate the fault
from the supply source.

Figure 16: Fault between Feeder and Mid-point ACRs

Step 2:

30 seconds after the initial fault:

! The Mid-point Recloser

changes to protection group
'B' in preparation for a change
in power flow direction.
40 seconds after the initial fault:
! The Tie Recloser closes to
reconfigure supply to the
feeder.
Figure 17: The Tie Recloser closes

Step 3:

The fault has not been cleared

and the Mid-point Recloser trips
to lockout to isolate the faulted
feeder section.

No reclose operation takes

place.

Supply is reconfigured to all the

un-faulted sections of the feeder.
Figure 18: Mid-point Recloser trips to isolate fault

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 Network Configuration Examples

Sequence of Events:
Feeder Recloser Mid-point Recloser Tie Recloser
00.00 Pickup
00.50 Prot Group A Active
00.50 Phase Prot Trip
00.50 Prot Trip 1
00.60 B Max 1200 AMP
01.00 Automatic Reclose
01.10 Pickup
01.60 Prot Group A Active
01.60 Phase Prot Trip
01.60 Prot Trip 2
01.70 B Max 1200 AMP
1
01.70 Lockout
2
01.70 End of Sequence
02.70 Source Supply OFF
02.70 Load Supply OFF 02.70 Load Supply OFF 02.70 Load Supply OFF
31.60 Prot Group B Active
41.60 Loop Auto Close Req
1
41.60 Loop Auto OFF
41.70 Pickup 41.70 Pickup
42.20 Prot Group B Active
42.20 Phase Prot Trip
42.20 Single Shot
42.40 B Max 1050 AMP 42.40 B Max 1050 AMP
1
42.40 Lockout
2
42.40 End of Sequence
42.70 Load Supply ON
43.20 Load Supply ON
Note 1: If Auto Restore is OFF Note 1: If Auto Restore is OFF Note 1: If Auto Restore is OFF
Note 2: If Auto Restore is ON Note 2: If Auto Restore is ON

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 Network Configuration Examples

Restoration Scenarios:
When {Loop Automation Configuration: Auto Restore} is turned ON:
• Linesperson clears fault.
• Linesperson closes Feeder Recloser and re-arms Loop Automation.
• Mid-point Recloser senses restoration of supply and closes automatically.
• Tie Recloser senses the change in power flow and opens.
When {Loop Automation Configuration: Auto Restore} is turned OFF:
• Linesperson clears fault.
• Linesperson closes Feeder Recloser and re-arms Loop Automation.
• Linesperson closes Mid-point Recloser and re-arms Loop Automation.
• Linesperson opens Tie Recloser and re-arms Loop Automation in the Tie
Recloser.

WARNING
Where the alternate supplies cannot be connected together the linesperson must
open the Tie Recloser before closing the Feeder Recloser.

53
 Network Configuration Examples

B.1.3 Fault Beyond Mid-point Recloser

In this example a fault occurs on the section of feeder between the Mid-point and Tie Recloser.

Recloser Actions:

Step 1

The Mid-point Recloser trips to

end of sequence in order to
isolate the fault from the supply
source.

Figure 19: Fault occurs beyond Mid-point Recloser

Step 2

The Tie Recloser closes to

reconfigure supply to the feeder
40 seconds after the initial fault.

Figure 20: Tie recloser closes onto the faulted section

Step 3

The Tie Recloser immediately

trips and locks out because the
fault has not been cleared.

Figure 21: Tie Recloser trips and locks out

54
 Network Configuration Examples

Sequence of Events:
Feeder Recloser Mid-Point Recloser Tie Recloser
00.00 Pickup 00.00 Pickup
00.50 Prot Group A Active
00.50 Phase Prot Trip
00.50 Prot Trip 1
00.60 B Max 900 AMP 00.60 B Max 900 Amp
01.00 Automatic Reclose
01.10 Pickup 01.10 Pickup
01.60 Prot Group A Active
01.60 Phase Prot Trip
01.60 Prot Trip 2
1
01.70 End of Sequence
2
01.70 Lockout
01.70 B Max 900 AMP 01.70 B Max 900 AMP
02.60 Load Supply OFF 02.60 Load Supply OFF
41.60 Loop Auto Close Req
41.60 Loop Auto OFF
41.70 Pickup
41.90 Prot Group A Active
41.90 Phase Prot Trip
41.90 Prot Trip 1
41.90 Lockout
2
41.90 Loop Auto OFF
42.00 B Max 850 AMP
Note 1: If Auto Restore is ON Note 1: If Auto Restore is OFF
Note 2: If Auto Restore is OFF Note 2: If Auto Restore is ON

Restoration Scenarios:
Restoration is the same whether {Loop Automation Configuration: Auto Restore} is ON or
OFF.
• Linesperson clears fault.
• Linesperson closes Mid-point Recloser and re-arms Loop Automation.
• Linesperson re-arms Loop Automation in the Tie Recloser.

55
 Network Configuration Examples

B.1.4 Loss of Zone Substation Supply

In this example the substation loses its supply.
Recloser Actions:

Step 1

1 to 30 seconds after the zone

substation supply is lost:
! The Mid-point Recloser
changes to protection group
“B” in preparation for a
change in power flow
direction.
! The Feeder Recloser opens
in order to isolate the
Figure 22: Loss of supply substation from the alternate
source of supply.
Step 2

The Tie Recloser closes 40

seconds after losing supply on its
load side.

Supply is reconfigured to the

Feeder Recloser from the
alternate source.

At the end of the sequence

supply is reconfigured to all
sections of the feeder except for
the section between the
substation CB and Feeder
Figure 23: Tie Recloser reconfigures supply Recloser.

56
 Network Configuration Examples

Sequence of Events:
Feeder Recloser Mid-Point Recloser Tie Recloser
01.00 Source Supply OFF 01.00 Source Supply OFF 01.00 Load Supply OFF
01.00 Load Supply OFF 01.00 Load Supply OFF
30.00 Loop Auto Trip Req 30.00 Prot Group B Active
40.00 Loop Auto Close Req
1
40.00 Loop Auto OFF
41.00 Source Supply ON
41.00 Load Supply ON 41.00 Load Supply ON 41.00 Load Supply ON
Note 1: If Auto Restore is OFF

Restoration Scenarios:
If {Loop Automation Configuration: Auto Restore} is turned “ON”:
• Linesperson restores supply to the substation.
• The Feeder Recloser senses restoration of supply and closes automatically.
• Tie Recloser senses the change in power flow and opens.
If {Loop Automation Configuration: Auto Restore} is turned “OFF”:
• Linesperson restores supply to the substation.
• Linesperson closes Feeder Recloser and re-arms Loop Automation.
• Linesperson opens the Tie and re-arms Loop Automation.

WARNING
Where the alternate supplies cannot be connected together the linesperson
must open the Tie Recloser before restoring the substation supply.

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 Network Configuration Examples

B2 Example Network Two – Substation CB, Feeder & Tie Reclosers

The second example is similar to the first, except there is no Mid-point Recloser in the network.
In its normal state both the substation CB and Feeder Recloser are closed and the Tie is open
with an alternate source of supply behind it.

Figure 24: Example Two - Network Configuration

Default Settings for Examples

Each of the fault isolation sequences are shown along with a sequence of events based on the
event log.
In order to show the relevant timings between recloser event logs, it has been assumed in all the
examples that:
• The initial fault occurred at 12:30:00.00 on 01/04/99.
• The Supply Timeout is set to 1 second.
• The {Loop Automation Configuration: Loop Auto Time} for the Feeder Recloser
is set to 29 seconds.
• The {Loop Automation Configuration: Loop Auto Time} for the Tie Recloser is
set to 39 seconds.

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 Network Configuration Examples

B.2.1 Fault Before Feeder Recloser

The following example shows Loop Automation operating when a fault occurs on the section of
feeder between the substaion CB and the Feeder Recloser.
Recloser Actions:

Step 1

Substation CB trips to lockout to

isolate the fault from the source
of supply.

Figure 25: Fault occurs before Feeder Recloser

Step 2

The Feeder Recloser opens 30

seconds after the initial fault
isolating the fault from the
alternate source of supply.

Figure 26: Feeder Recloser isolates the Fault

Step 3

Supply is reconfigured to the un-

faulted sections of the feeder by
the Tie Recloser 40 seconds
after the initial fault.

At the end of the sequence

supply is reconfigured to the un-
faulted sections of the feeder.

Figure 27: Supply is reconfigured

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 Network Configuration Examples

Sequence of Events:
Feeder Recloser Tie Recloser
01.00 Source Supply OFF 01.00 Load Supply OFF
01.00 Load Supply OFF
30.00 Loop Auto Trip Req
40.00 Loop Auto Close Req
1
40.00 Loop Auto OFF

41.10 Load Supply ON 41.10 Load Supply ON

Note 1: If Auto Restore is OFF

Restoration Scenarios:
If {Loop Automation Configuration: Auto Restore} is turned “ON”:
• Linesperson clears fault.
• Linesperson closes substation CB.
• Feeder Recloser senses restoration of supply and closes automatically.
• Tie Recloser senses the change in power flow and opens.
If {Loop Automation Configuration: Auto Restore} is turned “OFF”:
• Linesperson clears fault.
• Linesperson closes substation CB.
• Linesperson closes Feeder Recloser and re-arms Loop Automation.
• Linesperson opens Tie and re-arms Loop Automation.

WARNING
Where the alternate supplies cannot be connected together the linesperson
must open the Tie Recloser before closing the Substation Circuit Breaker.

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 Network Configuration Examples

B.2.2 Fault Between Feeder and Tie Recloser

In this example a fault occurs between the Feeder and Tie Reclosers.
Recloser Actions:

Step 1

The Feeder Recloser trips to end

of sequence and isolates the
fault from the normal supply
source.

Figure 28: Fault between the Feeder and Tie Reclosers

Step 2

The Tie closes 40 seconds after

the initial fault to reconfigure
supply to the feeder.

Figure 29: Tie Recloser attempts to reconfigure the

supply

Step 3

The Tie trips and locks out

because the fault has not been
cleared.

Figure 30: Tie Recloser trips and supply is not

reconfigured

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 Network Configuration Examples

Sequence of Events:
Feeder Recloser Tie Recloser
00.0 Pickup
02.70 Load Supply OFF
00.50 Prot Group A Active
00.50 Phase Prot Trip
00.50 Prot Trip 1
00.60 B Max 1100 AMP
01.00 Automatic Reclose
01.10 Pickup
01.60 Prot Group A Active
01.60 Phase Prot Trip
01.60 Prot Trip 2
01.70 B Max 1100 AMP
01.70 End of Sequence
1
01.70 Lockout
2
02.70 Load Supply OFF
41.60 Loop Auto Close Req
1
41.60 Loop Auto OFF
41.70 Pickup
41.90 Prot Group A Active
41.90 Phase Prot Trip
41.90 Prot Trip 1
41.90 Lockout
2
41.90 Loop Auto OFF
42.00 B max 850 AMP
Note 1: If Auto Restore is ON Note 1: If Auto Restore is OFF
Note 2: If Auto Restore is OFF Note 2: If Auto Restore is ON

Restoration Scenarios:
If {Loop Automation Configuration: Auto Restore} is turned “ON” or “OFF”:
• Linesperson clears fault.
• Linesperson closes Tie.
• Feeder Recloser senses restoration of supply and closes automatically.
• Linesperson opens Tie again and re-arms Loop Automation.

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 Network Configuration Examples

B3 Example Network Three – Feeder, Mid-point & Tie Reclosers

In this configuration, the substation CB has been replaced with a Nu-Lec recloser. This allows
the user to backfeed the alternate source of supply right back to the substation recloser if the
substation loses supply. In normal operation, the Feeder and Mid-point Reclosers are normally
closed and the Tie is open with an alternate source of supply behind it.

Figure 31: Example Three - Network Configuration

Default Settings for Examples

Each of the fault isolation sequences are shown along with a sequence of events based on the
event log.
In order to show the relevant timings between recloser event logs, it has been assumed in all the
examples that:
• The initial fault occurred at 12:30:00.00 on 01/04/99.
• The Supply Timeout is set to 1 second.
• The {Loop Automation Configuration: Loop Auto Time} for the Feeder Recloser
is set to 29 seconds.
• The {Loop Automation Configuration: Loop Auto Time} for the Mid-point
Recloser is set to 29 seconds.
• The {Loop Automation Configuration: Loop Auto Time} for the Tie Recloser is
set to 39 seconds.

63
 Network Configuration Examples

B.3.1 Fault Between Feeder and Mid-point Recloser

In this example a fault occurs between the Feeder and Mid-point Reclosers.
Recloser Actions:
Step 1

Fault is isolated from the normal

source of supply when the
Feeder Recloser trips to end of
sequence.

Figure 32: Fault occurs before the Mid-point Recloser

Step 2:

The Mid-point Recloser changes

to protection group “B” 30
seconds after the initial fault to
allow for new protection grading
when the power direction
changes.

Figure 33: Mid-point Recloser changes to protection

group ‘B’

Step 3:

The Tie closes onto the fault 40

seconds after the initial fault.

The Mid-point trips before the Tie

Recloser, isolating the fault.

Figure 34: Tie Recloser reconfigures supply

64
 Network Configuration Examples

Sequence of Events:
Feeder Recloser Mid-Point Recloser Tie Recloser
00.00 Pickup
00.50 Prot Group A Active
00.50 Phase Prot Trip
00.50 Prot Trip 1
00.60 B Max 960 AMP
01.00 Automatic Reclose
01.10 Pickup
01.60 Prot Group A Active
01.60 Phase Prot Trip
01.60 Prot Trip 2
01.70 B Max 960 AMP
1
01.70 End Of Sequence
2
01.70 Lockout
02.70 Source Supply OFF
02.70 Load Supply OFF 02.70 Load Supply OFF 02.70 Load Supply OFF
31.60 Prot Group B Active

41.60 Loop Auto Close Req

1
41.60 Loop Auto OFF
41.70 Pickup 41.70 Pickup
42.20 Prot Group B Active
42.20 Phase Prot Trip
42.20 Prot Trip 1
42.40 B Max 730 AMP
1
42.40 End of Sequence 42.40 B Max 730 AMP
2
42.40 Lockout
42.70 Load Supply ON
Note 1: If Auto Restore is ON Note 1: If Auto Restore is ON Note 1: If Auto Restore is OFF
Note 2: If Auto Restore is OFF Note 2: If Auto Restore is OFF

65
 Network Configuration Examples

Restoration Scenarios:
If {Loop Automation Configuration: Auto Restore} is turned “ON”:
• Linesperson clears fault.
• Linesperson closes Feeder Recloser at zone substation and re-arms Loop
Automation.
• Mid-point senses restoration of supply and closes automatically.
• Tie Recloser senses the change in power flow and opens.
If {Loop Automation Configuration: Auto Restore} is “OFF”:
• Linesperson clears fault.
• Linesperson closes Feeder Recloser at the zone substation and re-arms Loop
Automation.
• Linesperson closes Mid-point and re-arms Loop Automation.
• Linesperson opens Tie and re-arms Loop Automation in the recloser.

WARNING
Where the alternate supplies cannot be connected together the Linesperson must
open the Tie Recloser before closing the Feeder Recloser.

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 Network Configuration Examples

B.3.2 Fault Between Mid-point and Tie Recloser

In this example a fault occurs between the Mid-point and Tie Reclosers.
Recloser Actions:

Step 1

The fault is isolated from the

normal supply by the Mid-point
tripping to end of sequence.

Figure 35: Fault occurs beyond the Mid-point Recloser

Step 2

Supply is reconfigured 40
seconds after the initial fault
when the Tie closes.

Figure 36: Tie Recloser attempts to reconfigure the

supply

Step 3

The Tie Recloser trips and locks

out because the fault has still not
cleared.

Figure 37: Tie Recloser trips

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 Network Configuration Examples

Sequence of Events:
Feeder Recloser Mid-Point Recloser Tie Recloser
00.00 Pickup 00.00 Pickup
00.50 Prot Group A Active
00.50 Phase Prot Trip
00.50 Prot Trip 1
00.60 B Max 960 AMP 00.60 B Max 730 AMP
01.00 Automatic Reclose
01.10 Pickup 01.10 Pickup
01.60 Prot Group A Active
01.60 Phase Prot Trip
01.60 Prot Trip 2
1
01.70 End of Sequence
2
01.70 Lockout
01.70 B Max 960 AMP 01 .70 B Max 900 AMP
02.70 Load Supply OFF 02.70 Load Supply OFF
41.60 Loop Auto Close Req
1
41.60 Loop Auto OFF
41.70 Pickup
41.90 Prot Group A Active
41.90 Phase Prot Trip
41.90 Single Shot
41.90 Lockout
2
41.90 Loop Auto OFF
42.00 B Max 730 AMP
Note 1: If Auto Restore is ON Note 1: If Auto Restore is OFF
Note 2: If Auto Restore is OFF Note 2: If Auto Restore is ON

Restoration Scenarios:
Restoration is the same whether {Loop Automation Configuration: Auto Restore} is turned
“ON” or “OFF”:
• Linesperson clears fault.
• Linesperson closes the Mid-point Recloser and re-arms Loop Automation.
• Linesperson re-arms Loop Automation in the Tie Recloser.

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 Network Configuration Examples

B.3.3 Loss of Zone Substation Supply

In this example the substation itself loses supply.
Recloser Actions:

Step 1

30 seconds after the zone

substation loses its supply.
! The Mid-point changes to
protection group “B” to
provide correct grading when
the power flow changes
direction.
! The Feeder Recloser opens
to isolate the substation from
the alternate supply source.
Figure 38: Loss of Zone Substation supply

Step 2

The Tie closes 40 seconds after

the initial fault restoring the
supply to the feeder.

Supply is reconfigured to all

sections of the feeder.

Figure 39: Tie Recloser reconfigures the supply

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 Network Configuration Examples

Sequence of Events:
Feeder Recloser Mid-Point Recloser Tie Recloser
01.00 Source Supply OFF 01.00 Pickup 01.00 Load Supply OFF
01.00 Load Supply OFF 01.00 Load Supply OFF
30.00 Loop Auto Trip Req 30.00 Prot Group B Active
40.00 Loop Auto Close Req
1
40.00 Loop Auto OFF
41.00 Source Supply ON
41.00 Load Supply ON 41.00 Load Supply ON 41.00 Load Supply ON
Note 1: If Auto Restore is OFF

Restoration Scenarios:
If {Loop Automation Configuration: Auto Restore} is turned “ON”:
• Linesman restores supply to the zone substation.
• The Feeder Recloser senses the restoration of supply and closes automatically.
• Tie Recloser senses the change in power flow and opens.
If {Loop Automation Configuration: Auto Restore} is turned “OFF”:
• Linesman restores supply to the zone substation.
• Linesman closes the Feeder Recloser and re-arms Loop Automation.
• Linesman opens the Tie and re-arms Loop Automation in the recloser.

WARNING
Where the alternate supplies cannot be connected together the Linesperson must
open the Tie Recloser before closing the Feeder Recloser.

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 Network Configuration Examples

B4 Example Network Four – Auto-Changeover

In this example, Loop Automation provides a secure supply to a critical load (eg. Hospital). In the
normal configuration the Feeder Recloser is closed and the Tie is open with an alternate source
of supply behind it.

Figure 40: Example Four - Network Configuration

Default Settings:
Each of the fault isolation sequences are shown along with a sequence of events based on the
event log.
To show the relevant timings between recloser event logs it has been assumed in the example
that:
• The initial fault occurred at 12:30:00.00 on 01/04/99.
• The Supply Timeout is set to 1 second.
• The {Loop Automation Configuration: Loop Auto Time} for the Feeder Recloser
is set to 29 seconds.
• The {Loop Automation Configuration: Loop Auto Time} for the Tie Recloser is
set to 39 seconds.

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 Network Configuration Examples

B.4.1 Loss of Preferred Supply

The following example shows Loop Automation operating when the Feeder Recloser loses
supply.
Recloser Actions:

Step 1

The Feeder Recloser opens 30

seconds after the supply is lost,
isolating the preferred supply
from the alternate source of
supply.

Figure 41: Feeder Recloser isolates the Fault

Step 2

Supply is reconfigured to the

critical load by the Tie Recloser
40 seconds after the initial fault.

Figure 42: Supply is reconfigured

Sequence of Events:
Feeder Recloser Tie Recloser
01.00 Source Supply OFF 01.00 Load Supply OFF
01.00 Load Supply OFF
30.00 Loop Auto Trip Req
40.00 Loop Auto Close Req
1
40.00 Loop Auto OFF

41.00 Load Supply ON 41.00 Load Supply ON

Note 1: If Auto Restore is OFF

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 Network Configuration Examples

Restoration Scenarios:
If {Loop Automation Configuration: Auto Restore} is turned “ON”:
• Linesperson restores supply to Feeder Recloser.
• Feeder Recloser senses restoration of supply and closes automatically.
• Tie Recloser senses the change in power flow and opens.
If {Loop Automation Configuration: Auto Restore} is turned “OFF”:
• Linesperson restores supply to Feeder Recloser.
• Linesperson closes Feeder Recloser and re-arms Loop Automation.
• Linesperson opens Tie and re-arms Loop Automation.

WARNING

Where the alternate supplies cannot be connected together the Linesperson

must open the Tie recloser before closing the Feeder Recloser.

73
 Settings Record

Appendix C - Settings Record

The following template shows the range of information required when preparing a network for
Loop Automation configuration.
The template may be modified as required to suit individual requirements.

LOOP AUTOMATION SETTING SHEET

GLOBAL PARAMETERS LOOP AUTOMATION TIME

Live Terminal Voltage Supply Timeout Feeder and Mid-Point ACR:

(ST) LA Time = T1 + T2
Co-ordination time Single Shot Reset Time
= ………….
(T1) (2 x T1)
Auto-changeover Loop Automation Tie ACR:
(T1 + T2) LA Time = 2 (T1 + T2)

LOP/Loop Automation = ………….

Unlinked

ACR TYPE SER SER LOCATION DIRECTION LA TIME AUTO-RESTORE AUTO-RESTORE TIE RESTORE
NO: NO: (sec) AVAILABLE ON - OFF ONE / TWO
WAY

75