Protective relays are the brain and intelligence behind a medium-voltage distribution system (Figure 1). They serve as critical infrastructure for proper medium-voltage system operation, protection, and system reliability. Upgrading electromechanical to microprocessor relays and mitigating arc flash hazards in a medium-voltage system can be performed in synergy to achieve optimal system reliability and safety. KEEPING UP WITH TECHNOLOGY With electromechanical …
Grounding and bonding are integral parts of an electrical system and must be properly understood, installed, and maintained for maximum safety and performance. Accordingly, the National Electrical Code© (NEC©) focuses on describing, defining, and regulating this element, specifically in Article 250 Grounding and Bonding of Electrical Systems. Grounding electrical systems serve the dual purpose of limiting voltages that might otherwise …
Circuit breakers are critical components that allow the power distribution system to operate safely and reliably. As NETA Certified Technicians, we need to be familiar with the different types of circuit breakers and how they function. 1. When using a circuit breaker for isolation, what is the most effective way to lock it out?a. Lock it in the open position.b. …
The Six-P Rule (Proper Prior Planning Prevents Poor Performance) can go a long way to preventing human error, but humans still make mistakes. James Reason, a prominent University of Manchester professor, psychologist, and author, states: “Human error is a consequence, not a cause. Errors are shaped by upstream workplace and organizational factors. Only by understanding the context of the error …
Breaker failure protection provides backup protection in case the local circuit breaker fails to clear a system fault. If a breaker fails to trip, adjacent breakers must be tripped to isolate the fault from the sources feeding it. Figure 1 illustrates a fault on the transmission line served by Breaker 3 and Breaker 4. If Breaker 3 fails to open, Breaker 2, Breaker 5, and …
Equipment underutilization is, by implication, an underdiscussed subject. I am all too familiar with this phenomenon, e.g., relays with useful but unprogrammed protective functions, calibrated test equipment that rarely sees the light of day, fully functional battery chargers next to pallets of long-deceased 12 V valve-regulated lead–acid batteries (VRLAs), etc. This negligence is no less true of rotating machines, where inexpensive …
There is no better electrical safety standard than NFPA 70E, Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace. It’s a work practices document, composed and approved through consensus and input from a wide range of subject matter experts and members of the public. It follows the ANSI standards-making process with an end goal specifically designed to protect personnel from the hazards …
“NETA’s Outstanding Achievement Award is given in recognition of an individual’s commitment to NETA and leadership through service to the association and to the electrical testing industry as a whole,” began NETA President Eric Beckman, President of IPS PowerServe. “Many people each year are considered for this honor, and the President of the NETA Board of Directors selects the honoree. …
The Alliance Partner Recognition Award is open to all individuals who are involved in or support the electrical testing industry, serve the industry through the development and use of consensus standards in the electrical power industry, and are focused on providing the highest level of safety and reliability. These individuals include people from all aspects of electrical testing,” NETA Board …
“The James R. White Electrical Safety Award is given to honor Jim White’s legacy,” began NETA Board Member Scott Blizard, Vice President and Chief Operating Officer for Asplundh Electrical Testing. “Jim dedicated his career to promoting electrical safety, so individuals receiving the James R. White Safety Award must be committed to promoting electrical safety within their organization and across the …