Omicron Company 100 Relay Testing Equipment
The Omicron Company 100. Primary Test. Secondary Injection. Relay Test Equipment.
Omicron’s COMPANO 100 is a multi-purpose tool that can be used for performing various types of basic testing on electrical systems. It is very user-friendly such that it incorporates flexible configurable inputs to give exact values desired by the user. Also, it allows for variable frequencies in terms of output signals, pure DC and automated ramps. For processes such as relay testing, it offers binary inputs as well as DC or AC current and voltage inputs.
An advantage of the COMPANO 100 is its portability as it comes in at only 22lbs (approx. 10kg). As a result, it can be moved easily and used for performing troubleshooting and maintenance procedures in substations and plants. The COMPANO 100 finds application in
- Single-phase protection relay testing
- Micro-ohm resistance testing
- CT/VT ratio checks
- Polarity and wiring checks
Benefits derived from the use of the COMPANO 100 are not limited to the following.
- High versatility
- Its light weight means it is portable
- Can be used without being connected to a mains supply for, extended hours
- Desired value output is accurate and relied upon
The function of protective relays in an electrical/power system is to prevent hazard to human life and equipments. As such, it plays an important role in an electrical system and should be installed properly. According to the Recommended Practice for Electrical Maintenance, protective relays should be highly prioritised during maintenance checks and exercises. This is because protective relays only operate in when there is an abnormality in the condition of the electric system. Therefore, to ensure adequate operation, a detailed procedure for maintenance and testing should be put in place. Hence, reliable and highly efficient relay testing equipment and tools are needed for comprehensive inspection.
A relay, in its 30+ service year, may become active for 0.15 seconds, damages caused by failure can be catastrophic. This is because there could be lives lost, extended and prolonged power outage and serious damages to equipments and components. Statistics revealed by NETA (InterNational Electrical Testing Association) show that rates of failures of tested protective relays was 12%.
The use of protection relays in electrical or power systems are very important for reliability in its functioning and safety. When operating adequately, they help to protect other components of the system from getting damaged and keep the system secured. Relays find extensive use not only in installation but also in commissioning processes. Hence, the emphasis on the importance of a relay testing equipment to perform maintenance tests as a preventive measure. Since the protective relay works with other components associated with it, other tests that can be performed are
- Acceptance test
- Control power tests
- Current transformer tests
- Voltage transformer tests
The frequency of maintenance tests being done on the protective relays can vary between one to three years. As a result of this, the tests being done can also vary depending on the type of relay being used. Factors such as environment, age, reliability level and failure rates could also give an indication to the frequency of testing. NETA procedures on relay testing in electric power systems include
- Inspection for mechanical problems
- Pickup on each operating element
- Timing at three points on curve
- Target and seal-in operation
- Special tests for restraint, directional over-current and other special operating elements
- Insulation tests
- Actual breaker trip test
- Peripheral and auxiliary device tests
- Function test
Relay Testing Equipment, Information and Expertise Required
The following list describes the capabilities required of the relay testing equipment, information and level of expertise required. This is because it allows for performing a comprehensive and detailed test on the protective relay for adequate functional operation.
- Calibrated timing devices with start/stop circuits
- Calibrated current and voltage sources (1 and 3 phase) must not possess excessive distortion of waveform
- Phase shifters and phase angle meters
- Test jacks, relay cases and test leads
- Manufacturer’s literature and curves
- Thorough knowledge of test equipment and relays
- Power system short circuit and coordination study with recommended protective device settings.
With these, the comprehensive test carried out will detect if there are faults and abnormal operating conditions with the relay.
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