This edition of the NETA World is on communications — a very broad, but necessary subject. This Tech Quiz looks at three types of communication: digital substations, three-way communication, and hand signals for heavy lifting and cranes. Every NETA technician should have knowledge of these. 1. Digital substations are based on which IEC standard? IEC 61800 IEC 47855 IEC 60947 …
One of the most important details in NFPA 70E is its definitions. Many people automatically believe they already know the definition of a word or phrase. This is a mistake that can have negative consequences. The place to start is to read Chapter 1, Article 100 Definitions. Once you have a better understanding of the definitions, the rest of the …
It’s very exciting to kick off the first “In the Field” column. Consistent with this NETA World edition’s theme, an article on communications seemed fitting. As I write this, I realize I assumed the “communications” theme was related to interpersonal communications, but I didn’t communicate well enough to clarify that the theme is probably related to equipment communications such as …
This article presents a functional test procedure for a sudden pressure relay. The sudden pressure relay trips when it detects a sudden increase in gas pressure due to a fault internal to the transformer tank. Recommendations for mounting the relay and a procedure for post-analysis following field trips are also provided. The sudden pressure relay (Figure 1) offers three main …
As humans, we are drawn to one another and communicate with each other using a variety of methods. Good and effective communication is an essential tool to achieve productivity and maintain strong and lasting working relationships at all levels of an organization. What every interaction has in common is the need for clear and effective communication. In this issue of NETA …
Line differential protection is one of the most popular applications used for transmission line protection. Line differential protection works on the theory of Kirchhoff’s current law, where the magnitude of the current flowing into the line should be equal to the current flowing out of the line. For line differential protection, the zone of protection is defined by the location …
All networks are susceptible to problems that affect communications. One consequence of a fiber optic system’s high bandwidth, long distance capability, and security is the extreme dependence of users on the non-stop operation of these systems. Because they can transmit large amounts of data long distances with immunity from signal degradation and extremely high reliability, these systems usually carry the …
The high level of penetration of distributed energy resources (DERs) is one of the main characteristics of the smart grid, and it requires a different approach to the protection of the grid. IEC 61850 is widely accepted around the world due to the significant benefits it provides compared with conventional hardwired solutions. However, many specialists in the industry still hesitate …
An increasing number of facilities are exploring and appreciating the communications capabilities of electrical power equipment. Modern electrical system protection and metering devices measure and calculate a significant amount of digital data, and most of this data can be retrieved via communications. Due to the availability of these devices and data, systems can monitor multiple devices in a system-wide manner …
More students are taking advantage of the NETA Electrical Power Testing Technician program opportunity at Long Beach City College (LBCC) in California. The curriculum, which debuted in early 2018 at LBCC, is meant to attract those interested in a path to a career as an Electrical Power Testing Technician (EPTT). The program has also identified new NETA Certified Technicians as …