LEISTUNG AMS User manual

AMS
Air-insulated Metal-Clad Switchgear
3.3kV-40.5kV
User Manual

AMS
1 Technical Description ...........................................................................................................................5
1.1 General .................................................................................................................................................. 5
1.2 Applications .......................................................................................................................................... 6
1.3 Electrical Characteristics .................................................................................................................... 6
1.4 Terms and definitions .......................................................................................................................... 9
1.5 Operating Conditions ......................................................................................................................... 13
1.6 Degrees of protection .........................................................................................................................14
1.7 Colour of external surface .................................................................................................................14
1.8 Functional areas and compartments ................................................................................................14
1.9 Loss of service continuity ................................................................................................................ 15
1.10 Compartments .................................................................................................................................... 16
1.11 Interlocks ..............................................................................................................................................17
1.12 Arc proof ............................................................................................................................................ 18
1.13 Type Tests .... ...................................................................................................................................19
1.14 Mechanical Configurations .............................................................................................................20
2 Operation ............................................................................................................................................34
2.1 General ...............................................................................................................................................34
2.2 Circuit Breaker Identification ............................................................................................................34
2.3 Withdrawable Voltage Transformers ....................................................................................……….36
2.4 Vacuum Contactor ...........................................................................................................................37
2.5 Circuit Breaker Racking .................................................................................................................. 37
2.6 Earth Switch Operation ................................................................................................................... 41
2.7 Electrical Interlocks ..........................................................................................................................43
2.8 Mechanical Interlocks & Locks .........................................................................................................45
2.9 Troubleshooting ............................................................................................................................... 49
3 Installation of Switchgear ...............................................................................................................50
3.1 General Requirements ..................................................................................................................... 50
3.2 Installation of panels. ....................................................................................................................... 50
3.3 Floor Penetrations ..........................................................................................................................50
3.4 Main Busbar Installation .................................................................................................................53
3.5 Arc Tunnel ........................................................................................................................................56
3.6 HV Power Cable Installation ........................................................................................................... 57
3.7 LV Cable Installation ..........................................................................................................................57
3.8 Earthing ...............................................................................................................................................58
3.9 Final Assembly Checks .....................................................................................................................58
▎Contents

▎Contents
4 Commissioning ....................................................................................................................................................59
5 Transportation ............................................................................................................................. ..... ............... 59
5.1 General .................................................................................................................................... ………….....59
5.2 Dimensions and Weights ............................................................................................................ ................. 60
5.3 Loading, Transporting & Positioning Panels ........................................................................... ................. 60
5.4 Transporting with Rollers ......................................................................................................... ………........ 60
6 Storage ................................................................................................................................... ........... ………..... 61
7 Switchgear Maintenance ............................................................................................................... . ... ……...... 62
7.1 General ........................................................................................................................................ ........... ...... 62
7.2 Inspecting the Switchgear .................................................................................................... ...................... 62
7.3 Maintenance of the Switchgear ...................................................................................................... ....... .... 63

05
AMS
1 Technical Description
1. General
The “ AMS” series of switchgear is an air insulated, factory -assembled and type tested medium voltage
switchgear for indoor installations.The switchgear is an air insulated metal enclosed fully withdrawable
switchgear design, fittedwith Vacuum Circuit Breakers.
The AMS switchgear is fitted with VEP Embedded Pole Vacuum withdrawable circuit breakers. The
switchgear is of a front access design that allows efficient space utilisation within the switchroom. The
switchgear is designed for maximum safety, with all operations performed behind closed doors for
optimum safety, this includes isolationwithdrawal and application of earths via integral fault making
earthing switches to power circuits. The door to the circuit breaker compartment is interlocked such that
the door cannot be opened unless the circuit breaker is withdrawn to the isolated position, behind the
closed door. The circuit breaker status of open/closed/ racked in /racked out can be inspected through
the viewing window on the circuit compartment door.
In addition to VEP Embedded Pole Vacuum withdrawable circuit breakers, the switchgear can also be
equipped with vacuum contactor, and a voltage transformer truck. The switchgear is designed to meet
various system configurations as per individual project requirement.
The switchgear features partitioningbetween the busbars, the circuit breaker, the low voltage compartment
and the cable compartment. The generously dimensioned low voltage compartment is designed to both
modern and conventional control and protection systems. The AMS control panels can be combined
The functionalunits of the switchgear are guaranteed arc proof in accordance with the AS and IEC
Standards. All the start -up, maintenance and service operations can be carried out from the front.
The switchgear is designed in accordance with the Australian and IEC Switchgear Standards. The
switchgear is fully type tested and compliant with AS 62271.200:2005 and IEC 62271-200, Ed1.0
(2003). And the vacuum circuit breaker is fully type tested and compliant with AS 62271.100:2005
and IEC
62271-100, Ed 1.2 (2006). In addition to AS and IEC standards the switchgear also meets the
requirements of DIN and VDE (German) Standards.
•The main characteristicsof the switchgear are as follows:
•Metal-clad, air-insulated switchgear.
•Suitable for medium voltage distribution.
•Guaranteed arc-proof units.
•Factory-tested for indoor installations.
•Tested in accordance with AS and IEC Standards.
•Wide range of functional units available for all installation solutions.
•Compartments segregated by metallic partitions.
•Modular structure, easily built -up.
•
•Highly effective use of space.
•Start-up, maintenance and service operations can be carried out from the front.
•Apparatus handling with the door closed.
•Units can be installed against the wall.
•Limited and simple maintenance activities.
•Complete with mechanical safety interlocks.
•Earthing switchwith full making capacity.
•Designed to guarantee maximum service continuity.
•Conventional or integrated protection and measurement systems.

06
2. Applications
The switchgear has been designed and installed in the following type of applications:
Utilities and Power Plants
•Distribution and zone substations
•Power generation stations
•Transformer stations
•Main and auxiliary switchgear.
•Nuclear power stations
Industry
•Mining
•Pulp and Paper
•Cement
•Textiles
•Chemicals
•Food
•Automotive
•Petrochemical
•Quarrying
•Oil and gas pipelines
•Metallurgy
•Rolling mills
•Water and sewageworks
Transport
•Airports
•Ports
•Railways
•Underground transport.
Services
•Supermarkets
•Shopping malls
•Hospitals
•Large infrastructures and civil works.
3. Electrical Characteristics
No.
Description Unit AMS 12
AMS 24
1 Rated service voltage kV rms 11 22
2 System highest voltage kV rms 12 24
3 Rated frequency Hz 50
4 Rated current of main bus bar A rms 1250, 2000, 2500, 3150, 4000*
5 Rated current of branch bus bar A rms 630, 1250, 2000, 2500, 3150,
4000*
* - Forced cooling ventilationis required
Power frequency voltage that the
completely assembled group of
panels comprising a main bus will
withstand for 60 seconds
At factory
Atsite
Lightning impulse withstand voltage
(peak value)
Rated short time withstand current
(3 sec)
Rated peak withstand current (peak
value)
Resistance of main circuit
6
6.1
6.2
7
8
9
10
kV
rms 28
50
kV
rms 22.4
40
kV
rms 95
125
kA 20, 25, 31.5, 40,
50
kA 50, 63, 80, 125,
130
µΩ
≤150+CT*
(≤630A)
≤100+CT*
(≤1250A)
≤70+CT*
(≤2000A)
≤50+CT*
(≥2500A)

07
DQC-40.5
12
13 contacts at rated normal current
14.1
Secondary control voltage (DC) Vdc 48, 110, 220
14.2
Secondary control voltage (AC) Vac 110, 220
Rated voltage 50Hz for auxiliary
14.3
devices (lighting, heaters, spring Vac 240
charge motor, etc)
15 Minimum trip and close coil current A 1A @
220Vdc
Minimum permissible interval („dead
16 time‟) between break & high speed s180
making capacity
Minimum dc trip voltage at control
cabinet terminals at which total
17 short circuit break time (Item 12 %70
above) is valid (% of nominal dc
supply voltage)
18 Opening time
18.1
• Under no-load conditions ms 25 –35
18.2
• At rated breaking capacity ms 25 –35
Maximum temperature rise at rated
normal current (CB in unit)
Resistance voltage drop across
make at 100% rated breaking and
Maximum arcing time at the following
breaking capacities
19.1
• 100% rated asymmetrical ms
15ms
@
51%
19.2
• 100% rated symmetrical ms 15
19.3
• 60% rated symmetrical ms 15
19.4
• 30% rated symmetrical ms 15
19.5
• 10% rated symmetrical ms 15
19.6
• 5% rated symmetrical ms 15
Maximum impulse wave for which the
20 circuit breaker insulation will be
coordinated (with cables connected)
20.1
• Prospective peak kVp 95 125
20.2
• Wave shape µs
1.2/50
1.2/50
No.
Description Unit AMS12 AMS
24
11 Ingress Protection
11.1
•High voltage parts IP4X
11.2
•Open Enclosures IP2X
11.3
•Low voltage compartment IP2X
Maximum internal partial discharge at
120% rated phase-to-earth voltage
when tested in accordance with
AS62271.200
Number of opening operations
permissible before inspection and
maintenance of contacts and other
essential parts
•At rated normal current
•At rated breaking capacity
For Vacuum interrupters
•Method of testing
the integrity of
vacuum interrupters
ºC
mV
40
250
40
250
19
21 pC <20 <20
22
22.1
22.2 No. No. 10000 50 10000 50
23 Dielectrictest Dielectrictest

08
No.
24
24.1
24.2
•Interrupters Years 20
20
24.3
• Isolating contacts –CB Years 20
20
24.4
• Isolating contacts –Fixed Years 20
20
25 Busbar material Copper
26
27
28
29
30
30.1
30.2
30.3
30.4
31
32
33
34
34.1
34.2
35
35.1
35.2
36
37
38
39
40
41
41.1
41.2
Description
Minimum time interval between
inspections for lubrication and
maintenance of moving parts
•Mechanism and
drive system
Busbar method of clamping/fixing to
busbars
Busbar insulation
Material used for busbar insulation
Maximum allowable continuous
operating temperature of the
insulation material
Metal Enclosure
•Class
•Type
•Servicecontinuity
classification
•Partition class
Protectionof equipment against
mechanical impact
Insulating medium for all
compartments
Number of compartments in panel
Internal arcing fault (IAC) withstand –
AS 62271-200 Appendix A
IAC to AS 62271-200
Appendix A
•Accessibility type
Finishing coating –interior & exterior
•Atmospheric corrosive
category (AS2312)
•Thickness
Creepage distance
Cross section area of earth bar
Details of protection of secondary
wiring in main HV compartments
Busbar and cable shutters operate
and lock independently
Shutter bonded to panel earthing
system via adequate flexible earth
braids
Rated power frequency withstand
voltage
•Conductor to earth
•Across isolationdistance
Unit AMS12 AMS 24
Years 20
Bolt
Raychem
Epoxy Resin
20
ºC 115
Indoor
Withdrawable
LSC2B
PM
2J
Air
4
Yes
A,FLR
B
µm
mm/kV
mm2
75
20
30 x8mm
Metallic duct & sock
Yes
Yes
kV
kV 42
48 50 60

09
AMS
1.4 Terms and definitions
1.4.1 Switchgear and controlgear
General term covering switching devices and their combination with associated control, measuring,
protective and regulating equipment, also assemblies of such devices and equipment with associated
interconnections, accessories, enclosures and supporting structures
1.4.2 Metal enclosed switchgear and controlgear
Switchgear and controlgear assemblies with an external metal enclosure intended to be earthed and
completely assembled, except for external connections
1.4.3 Functional unit (of an assembly)
Part of metal-enclosed switchgearand controlgear comprisingall the components of the main circuits and
auxiliary circuits that contribute to the fulfilment of a single function
NOTE Functional units may be distinguished according to the function for which they are intended,for ex ample, incoming unit,
outgoing unit, etc
1.4.4 Multitier
Two or more functionalunits arranged vertically within a single enclosure
1.4.5 Transport unit
Part of metal-enclosed switchgear and controlgear suitable for shipment without being dismantled
1.4.6 Enclosure
Part of metal-enclosed switchgear and controlgear providing a specified degree of protection of equipment
against external influences and a specified degree of protectionagainst approach to or contact with live
parts and against contact with moving parts
1.4.7 Compartment
Part of metal-enclosed switchgear and controlgear enclosed except for openings necessary for
interconnection, control or ventilation
Four types of compartments are distinguished, three that can be opened, called accessibleand one
that cannot be opened, called non -accessible.
NOTE Compartments are identified according to the main component(s) contained therein.
No.
42
42.1
• Conductor toearth kV 75
125
42.2
• Across isolationdistance kV 85
145
43
43.1
43.2
43.3
43.4
43.5
Unit AMS 12 AMS 24 Description
Rated lightning impulse withstand
voltage
Maximum number of cables per
phase
•630A
•1250A
•1600A
•2000A
•2500A
4 cablesizes
4 cablesizes
6 cablesizes
6 cablesizes
6 cablesizes
Table 1 –Switchgear Electrical Characteristics
3 cablesizes
3 cablesizes
6 cablesizes
6 cablesizes
6 cablesizes

10
1.4.7.1 Interlock-controlled accessible compartment
Compartment containinghigh-voltage parts, intended to be opened for normal operation and/or normal
maintenance as stated by the manufacturer,in which access is controlled by integral design of the
switchgear and controlgear
NOTE Installation,extension,repairing,etc. are not considered as normal maintenance.
1.4.7.2 Procedure-based accessible compartment
Compartment containinghigh-voltage parts, intended to be opened for normal operation and/or normal
maintenance as stated by the manufacturer, in which access is controlled by a suitable procedure
combined with locking
NOTE Installation,extension,repairing,etc. are not considered as normal maintenance.
1.4.7.3 Tool-based accessible compartment
Compartment containing high-voltage parts, that may be opened, but not for normal operation and
maintenance. Special procedures are required. Tools are necessary for opening
1.4.7.4 Non-accessible compartment
Compartment containing high -voltage p a r t s t h a t m u s t n o t b e o p e n e d . Opening mayde storythe
integrity of the compartment. Clear indication not to open is provide d on/by the compartment
1.4.8 Partition
Part of metal-enclosedswitchgear and controlgear separating one compartment from other compartments
1.4.9 Partition class
Class defining whether metallic or non -metallicmaterial for separation to live parts is used
1.4.9.1 Partition class PM
Metal-enclosed switchgear and controlgear providing continuous metallic partitions and/or shutters (if
applicable), intended to be earthed, between opened accessiblecompartments and live parts of the
main circuit
1.4.9.2 Partition class PI
Metal-enclosedswitchgear and controlgear having one or more non -metallicpartitions or shutters between
opened accessible compartments and live parts of the main circuit
1.4.7.10 Shutter
Part of metal-enclosed switchgearand controlgear that can be moved from a position where it permits
contacts of a removable part, or moving contact of a disconnector, to engage fixed contacts, to a
position where it becomes a part of the enclosure or partition shielding the fixed contact
1.4.7.11 Segregation (of conductors)
Arrangement of conductorswith earthed metal interposed between them in such a manner that
disruptivedischarges can only occur to earth
NOTE A segregation maybe establishedb e t w e e n the conductors as well as between the open contacts ofa switchingd e v i c e or
disconnector.
1.4.7.12 Bushing
Structure carrying one or more conductors through an enclosure or partition and insulating it
therefrom, including the means of attachment

11
AMS
1.4.13 Component
Essentialpart of the main or earthing circuitsof metal -enclosed switchgear and controlgear which
serves a specificfunction (for example, circuit -breaker, disconnector, switch, fuse, instrument
transformer, bushing, busbar
1.4.14 Main circuit (of an assembly)
All the conductive parts of metal -enclosed switchgear and controlgear included in a circuit which is
intended to transmit electrical energy.
1.4.15 Earthing circuit
Connection of each earthing device, or points provided for earthing purposes, to the terminal intended to
be connectedto the earthing system of the installation
1.4.16 Auxiliary circuit
All the conductive parts of metal -enclosed switchgear and controlgear included in a circuit (other than the
main circuit) intended to control, measure, signal and regulate
NOTE The auxiliary circuits of metal-enclosed switchgearand controlgearinclude the control and auxiliary circuitsof the s witching
devices.
1.4.17 Pressure relief device
Device intended to limit the pressure in a compartment
1.4.18 Relative pressure
Pressure, referred to the standard atmospheric pressure of 101.3 kPa
1.4.19 Ambient air temperature (of metal -enclosed switchgear and controlgear)
Temperature, determined under prescribed conditions, of the air surrounding the enclosure of metal -
enclosed switchgear and controlgear
1.4.20 Removable part
Part of metal-enclosed switchgearand controlgear connected to the main circuitand that may be
removed entirely from the metal -enclosed switchgearand controlgear and replaced, even though the
main circuit of the functionalunit is live
1.4.21 Withdrawable part
Removable part of metal -enclosed switchgear and controlgear that can be moved to positions in which an
isolating distance or segregation between open contacts is established, while the part remains mechanically
attached to the enclosure
1.4.22 Service position (connected position)
Position of a removable part in which it is fully connected for its intended function
1.4.23 Test position (of a withdrawable part)
Position of a withdrawable part in which an isolating distance or segregation is established in the main
circuit and in which the auxiliary circuits are connected
1.4.24 Disconnected position (of a withdrawable part)
Position of a withdrawable part in which an isolating distance or segregation is established in the
circuits of the withdrawable part, that part remaining mechanically attached to the enclosure
NOTE In high- voltage metal-enclosed switchgear and controlgear, the auxiliary circuits may not be disconnected.

12
1.4.25 Removed position (of a removable part)
Position of a removable part when it is outside and mechanically and electrically separated from the
enclosure
1.4.26 Loss of service continuity category (LSC)
Category defining the possibility to keep other compartments and/or functional units energised when
opening a main circuitcompartment
NOTE 1 The LSC category describesthe extent to which the switchgearand controlgearare intended to remain operational in case
access to a main -circuit compartment is necessary. The extent to which it is considered necessary to open main -circuit
compartmentswith a liv e installation might be dependent on several aspects.
NOTE 2 The LSC categorydoes not describeranks of reliability of switchgearand controlgear.
1.4.26.1 Category LSC2 switchgear and controlgear
Switchgear and controlgear having accessiblecompartments other than the busbar compartment ofa
single busbar switchgear and controlgear
For metal-enclosed switchgear and controlgear, when any accessible compartment in a functional unit is
open, all other functional units are intended to remain energised and operated normally.An
exception applies in the case of the busbar compartment of single -busbar switchgear and controlgear
which, when opened, prevents servicecontinuity.
Two subdivisions are recognized:
LSC2B: switchgearand controlgear of category LSC2 where the cable compartment is also intended to
remain energised when any other accessible compartment ofthe corresponding functional unit is open.
LSC2A: LSC2 switchgear and controlgear, other than LSC2B
1.4.26.2 Category LSC1 switchgear and controlgear
Metal-enclosedswitchgear and controlgear other than category LSC2
1.4.27 Internal arc classified switchgear and controlgear (IAC)
Metal-enclosed switchgear and controlgear for which prescribed criteria for protection of persons are met
in the event of internal arc as demonstrated by the appropriate tests.
Types of accessibility
A distinction is made between two types of accessibilityto the metal-enclosed switchgear and controlgear
which are possible in the site of installation:
•AccessibilityType A: restricted to authorized personnel only.
•AccessibilityType B: unrestrictedaccessibility,including that of the general public.
The metal-enclosed switchgearand controlgear may have different types of accessibility on the various sides of its
enclosure.
For identification purposes of the different sides of the enclosure the followingcode shall be used:
F for Front side
L for Lateral side
R for Rear side
1.4.28 Degree of protection
Extent of protection provided by an enclosure, partition or shutter if applicable, against accessto
hazardous parts, against ingressof solid foreign objects and/or ingress of water and verified by
standardized test methods (see 3.3 of IEC60529)

13
AMS
1.4.29 Rated Value
Quantity value assigned, generally by a manufacturer, for a specified operating condition of a
component device or equipment
1.4.30 Disruptive discharge
Phenomena associated with the failure of insulation under electric stress, in which the discharge completely
bridges the insulation under test, reducing the voltage between the electrodes to zero or nearly to zero
NOTE 1 The term applies to discharges in solid, liquid and gaseous dielectricsand to combinations of these.
NOTE 2 A disruptive dischargein a solid dielectric produces permanentloss of dielectric strength (non-self-restoring
insulation);in a liquid or gaseous dielectric,the loss may be only temporary (self -restoring insulation).
NOTE 3 The term "spark over"is used when a disruptivedischarge occursin a gaseousor liquid dielectric.The t e r m
"flashover"is used when a disruptivedischarge occurs over the surface of a solid dielectricin gaseous or liquid medium. The term
"puncture" is used when a disruptivedischarge occurs through a solid dielectric.
1.5 Operating Conditions
The AMS switchgear has been designed for normal operating conditionsfor in indoor installations,in
compliance with AS 2650:2005 and IEC 62271 -1 Ed 1.0 (2007).
a)
b)
c)
d)
e)
f)
g)
The maximum ambient air temperature is 40 °C and its average value, measured over a period of
24 h does not exceed 35 °C.
The minimum ambient air temperature is -5 °C for class "minus 5 indoor".
The influence of solar radiation is neglected.
The installation altitude does not exceed 1 000 m above sea level.
The ambient air is not significantlypolluted by dust, smoke, corrosive and/or flammable gases,
vapours or salt.
The average value of the relative humidity, measured over a 24h period, does not exceed 95%
Depending on additional ambient conditions(e.g. container installation), it may be necessary to install
a heater.
Vibration due to causes external to the switchgear and controlgear or earth tremors are
negligible.
Induced electromagnetic disturbancesat interfaces of the secondary system, as a result of switching
in the high-voltage system, do not exceed 1 .6 kV common mode for normal EMC severity class, and 0.8
kV common mode for reduced EMC severity class .
Rated voltage of a power network at 3000 m = 12 kV Rated Voltage 3000 m == 15kV
0.8
The Altitudefactor as per IEC and AS Standards: 0.8 at 3000 m above sea level
Thus, the 12kV switchgear installed at altitudes of 3000 m above sea level must be designed to withstand
17.5 kV.
1.5.1 Altitude
If the switchgear is to be installed at altitudes higher than 1000 m above sea level, the reduced dielectric
strength of air must be taken into consideration.
Example: 12kV

14
1.6 Degrees of protection
The degrees of protection of the switchboards conform to Australian and International Standards, AS 60529
and IEC 60529 Standards. The AMS switchboard is normally supplied with the followingstandard degrees of
protection:
•IP4X on the external housing.
•IP2X inside the units.
1.7 Colour of external surface
The AMS switchgear is normally supplied with our standard colour finish which is RAL 7035 for the VCB door,
cable compartment door, LV compartment door, rear covers and each end panel of the switchboard while the
rest of the switchboardis natural galvabond. On request, a different external colour finish from the RAL
standard can be provided.
1.8 Functional areas and compartments
The AMS switchgear panel is subdivided into four functional areas:
•Bus-bar compartment
•Circuit breaker compartment
•Cable compartment
•Low-voltage compartment
The AMS switchgear is a full metal enclosed construction with segregation of all major compartments to
enhance the safety and reliability for personnel, equipment and the operating plant. All the compartments are
segregated from each other to IP2X, this is achieved with metal segregationbarriers within the switchgear
and is to prevent the transfer of faults to other areas of the switchgear under an internal arc fault.
Pressure relief flaps
Mainbusbars
Main busbars supports&
throughbushings
CB TeeOffs
CB fixedspouts
Busbarcompartment
LV Compartment
WithdrawableCB
Earthswitch
Currenttransformer
Cableconnections
Fixed voltagetransformer
Circuitbreaker
compartment
Cable compartment with
viewing window on front
door
Cubicleheater
Cablesupports
Functional areas and main components (12kV)

15
AMS
Mainbusbar
compartment LV Compartment
Metalsegregation
barriers
CB fixedspouts
Circuitbreaker
Circuitbreaker
compartment
Current transformer
Earthswitch
Cableconnections
Cable compartment with
viewing window
Functional areas and main components (24kV)
1.9 Loss of service continuity
With IEC 62271-200, new aspects relative to new definitions and classifications of MV switchgear have
been introduced. One of the most significant changes introduced in this release is that classificationof
switchgear into metal-clad, compartmented and cubicle types has been completely abandoned. Revision
of switchgear classificationrules has been based on the user’s point of view, in particular on aspects like
service and maintenance of the switchgear,according to the requirements and expectations for good
substation management, from installation to dismantling. In this context, Loss of Service Continuity has
been chosen as a fundamental parameter for the user.
Accordingto the updated rules, the AMS switchgear can be defined as follows:
1.9.1 Interlock controlled accessible compartment
Compartment containinghigh-voltage parts, intended to be opened for normal operation and/or normal
maintenance, in which access is controlled by integral design of the switchgear and controlgear, such as
the circuit breaker compartment and the cable compartment.
1.9.2 Tool based accessible compartment
Compartment containing high -voltage parts, that may be opened, but not for normal operation and
maintenance. Special procedures are required. Tools are necessaryfor opening, such as the busbar
compartment

16
1.9.3 LSC2B
Busbar, Cable and LV compartments are physicallyand electrically segregated. This is the category that
defines the possibility of keeping other compartments and/or functional units energised when opening a
main circuit compartment.
1.9.4 Partition Class-PM
Metal-enclosed switchgear and controlgear providing continuous metallic partitions and/orshutters,
intended to be earthed, between opened accessible compartments and live parts of the main circuit.
Metallic partitions and shutters or metallic parts of them shall be connected to the earthing point of the
functional unit.
1.10 Compartments
Each unit consists of three power compartments: circuit breaker compartment, busbars compartment and
cable compartment.
Each unit is fitted with the LV compartment, where all the instrumentsand low voltage cabling are housed.
The compartments are segregated from each other by metallicpartitions.
Arc-proof switchgear is normally provided with an arc-tunnel for evacuation of the gases produced by an
internal arc, if the internal height of the switchroom is less than 4.9m.
All the units are accessible from the front and the maintenance and service operations can therefore
also be carried out with the switchgear installed a p p r o xi m a t e l y 100mm from the wall . However we
do recommend that for ease of on -going maintenance a 600mm space is maintained at the rear for easy
access.
1.10.1 Main busbars
The busbar compartment contains the main busbar system connected to the fixed upper isolating contacts of
the circuit breaker by means of branch connections.
The busbars are covered with an insulating material. There is a single busbar compartment along the
whole length of the switchgear and this is fitted with segregations for dividing each unit into
compartments.
1.10.2 Earthing switch
Each cable compartment can be fitted with an earthing switch for cable earthing.
The same device can also be used to earth the busbar system (ESW panel and bus -tie/riser panel). The
earthing switch is rated at the short-circuit making capacity of the switchboard.
Control of the earthing switch is from the front of the switchgearwith manual operation via the earth switch
handle. The position of the earthing switch can be seen from the front of the switchgear by means of an
indicator mounted directly onto the operating shaft of the earth switch.
1.10.3 Insulating bushings and shutters
The insulating bushings c ontained in the circuit breaker compartment containthe fixed contacts for
connection of the circuit breaker with the busbar compartment and cable compartment respectively.
They are single-pole type and are made of epoxy resin. The shutters are metallic and are activated
automatically during movement of the circuitbreaker from the racked- out/disconnected position to the
service position and vice versa.

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AMS
1.10.4 Arc-tunnel (optional)
The arc tunnel is positioned above the switchgearand runs along its entire length. Each power
compartment is fitted with a pressure relief flap positioned on the top of it. The pressure generated by the
fault makes it open, allowing the gas to pass into the arc tunnel.
Evacuationfrom the room of the hot gases and incandescent particles produced by the internal arc must
normally be carried out. The ECO BLOCK switchgearis fitted with a complete range of solutions to deal
with all requirements, either in the case where evacuation is possible directly at the end of the switchgear,
or when solutions from the front or rear are requested.
1.11 Interlocks
1.11.1 Mechanical Interlocks
The AMS switchgear is normally supplied with the followingstandard mechanical interlocking
features:
Circuit Breaker door Interlocks
•The circuit breaker compartment door cannot be opened unless circuit breaker is fully racked
out to its disconnected position.
•The circuit breaker cannot be racked in unless the circuit breaker compartment door is closed
and secure d.
•The circuit breaker compartment door cannot be closed unless the auxiliary plug is
connected.
Circuit breaker Interlocks
•The circuit breaker cannot be racked in/out if the circuitbreaker is closed
•The circuit breaker cannot be closed if it is not in the service or
disconnected position.
•The circuitbreaker cannot be racked in if the auxiliary plug is unplugged.
•The auxiliary plug cannot be unplugged unless the circuit breaker is fully rackedout to
its disconnected position.
•The circuitbreaker cannot be racked in if the earth switch is closed.
Cable compartment door and Earth switch Interlocks
•The earth switch cannot be closed unless the circuit breaker is fully racked out to its disconnected
position.
•The cable compartment door cannot be opened unless the earth switchis closed.
•The earth switch cannot be opened unless the cable compartment door is closed.
1.11.2 Key Interlocks
The AMS switchgear can also be supplied with the following optional key interlock features to be
integrated into equipment isolation and access systems:
•The circuit breaker can be locked in the disconnected position
•The earth switch can be locked in the open position
•The earth switch can be locked in the closed position
1.11.3 Blocking magnets
In addition to standard mechanical and optional key interlocks,blocking magnets can also be used to provide
additional automatic electro/ mechanical interlock logic without human intervention.
The circuit breaker racking, circuit breaker closing and earth switch operations can be prevented via these
blocking magnets. The magnets operate with active logic (failsafe) and therefore the loss of auxiliary
voltage blocks the applicable operations.

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1.12 Arc proof
When developing modern medium voltage switchgear, personnel safety must necessarily take first place
and this is why the AMS switchgear has been designed and tested to withstand an internal arc due to a
short-circuitcurrent of the same level as the maximum short -time withstand level. Tests undertaken prove
that the metal housing of the AMS switchgearis able to protect personnel operating near the switchgear in
the case of a fault which evolves as far as striking an internal arc.
An internal arc is among the most unlikely of faults, and can be caused by various factors, such as:
•Insulation defects due to quality deterioration of the components.
•Over voltages of atmospheric origin or generated by operation of a component.
•Incorrect operations.
•Breakage or tampering of the safety interlocks.
•Overheating of the contact area, due to the presenceof corrosive agents or when the connections
are not sufficiently tightened.
•Entry of rodents or reptiles into the switchgear.
•Material left behind inside the switchgear during maintenance operations.
The design characteristicsof the AMS switchgear notably reduce the incidence of these causes in generation
of faults, but some of them cannot be completely eliminated.
The energy produced by the internal arc causes the followingphenomena:
•Increase in the internal pressure.
•Increase in temperature.
•Visual and acoustic effects.
•Mechanical stresses on the switchgear structure.
•Melting, decompositionand evaporation of materials including copper and metal.
Unless suitably controlled,these releases of energy can have very serious consequences for the
operators, such as wounds (due to the shock wave, flying parts and the doors opening) and burns (due to
emission of hot gases).
Internal arc fault tests ensure that compartment doors remain closed and that no components, flame or
gases are ejected from the switchgear in a manner that would poses a threat to the safety of personnel
working near the switchgear.
In addition, the tests verify that no holes are produced in the external frameo f freely accessible parts
of the housing and finally, that all the connections to the earthing circuit remain effective, guaranteeing the
safety of personnel who may access to the switchgear after thefault.
Standards AS 62271.200 and IEC 62271-200 describe the methods to be used for carrying out the tests
and the criteria which the switchgear must conform to. The AMS switchgear fully conforms to all the criteria
indicated:
•The doors of the switchgear must remain closed and no opening of the cover panels must occur.
•Any part of the switchgear which may be hazardous for personnel must not be ejected.
•No holes must appear in the external housing of the switchgear in any parts accessible to personnel.
•The vertically and horizontally arranged fabric indicators placed outside the switchgear must not get burnt.
•All the switchgear earthing connections must remain effective.
In the case where IAC classificationis proven by the tests, the metal enclosed switchgear will be designated
as follows:
•General: classification IAC (stands for Internal Arc Classified)
•Accessibility: A, B or C (switchgear accessible to authorized personnel only (A), to all (B),
not accessible due to installation (C))
•Test values: test current in kilo amperes (kA), and duration in seconds (s).
AMS switchgear is classified IAC AFLR. When installing the switchgear, some fundamental points must be
taken into consideration:
•Level of the fault current
•Duration of the fault

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AMS
•
•
Escape routes for the hot and toxic gases given off by combustion of materials
Dimensions of the room, with special attention to the height
1.13 Type Tests
The AMS switchgear is designed in accordance with the Australian and IEC Switchgear Standards. The
switchgear is fully type testedand compliant with AS 62271.200:2005 and IEC 62271-200, Ed1.0
(2003). The vacuum circuit breaker is fully type tested and compliant with AS 62271.100:2005 and IEC
62271-100, Ed 1.2 (2006). In addition to AS and IEC standards the switchgear also meets the
requirements of DIN and VDE (German) Standards. These include:
•Dielectric Test
•Lightning Impulse voltagetest
•Power Frequency voltagetest
•Measurement of resistance of the main circuit
•Temperature rise test and main circuit impedance measurements
•Short time withstand current and peak withstand current test
•Verification of making and breaking capacities (CB and Earth Switch)
•Mechanical operations test
•Verification of IP coding
•Internal Arc test
Brief descriptions of the Type tests are as follows:
•Dielectric
These tests check that the switchgear has sufficient capability to withstand the lightning impulse and the
power frequency voltage. The power frequency withstand voltage test is carried out as a type test, but is
also routine on every switchgear unit manufactured.
•Measurement of resistance of the main circuit
The resistance test is carried out for two purposes:
1.Initial verification of the effectiveness of bolted connections to pass current continuously without
exceeding guaranteed operating temperature limits. These tests are conducted by passing a known
DC current through bolted busbar joints and connections and measuring the voltage drop between
these 2 points. The joint resistance, typically recorded in micro-ohms(µΩ), is determined using
Ohm’s law, V=IR.
2.Joint condition monitoring. Joint resistance measurements taken during regular maintenance can
be compared against initial measurements to identify any increase in joint resistance which may be
an early indication of potential joint failure.
•Temperature Rise
The temperature rise test is carried out at the rated current value of the switchgear unit and shows
that the temperature does not become excessive inside of it. During the test, both the switchgear and the
apparatus it may be fitted with are checked (circuit -breakers, contactors etc).
Apparatus subject to testing in free air is able to withstandhigher rated currents than that insertedin a
switchgear unit; therefore the rated current of the apparatus depends on the characteristicsof the
switchgear.
•Short time & peak withstand current
The test shows that the main power and the earthing circuits resist the stressescaused by the passage
of the short-circuitcurrent without any damage. I t should also be noted that both the earthing system of
the withdrawable apparatus and the earthing busbar of the switchgear are subjected to the test. The
mechanical and electrical properties of the main busbar system and of the top and bottom branch
connectionsremain unchanged even in case of a short-circuit fault.
•Apparatus making & breaking capacity
All the apparatus (circuit -breakers, contactors and switch -disconnectors) are subjected to the rated
current and short -circuit current breaking tests. Furthermore, they are also subjected to the opening
and closing of capacitive and inductive loads, capacitor banks and cable lines.

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•Earth switch making capacity
The earthing switch of the switchgear can be closed under short -circuit. In actual fact, the earthing switch
is normally interlockedto avoid being operated on circuits which are stilllive. However, should this happen
for any one of several reasons, safetyof the personnel operating the installation would be fully safeguarded.
•Mechanical operations
The mechanical life tests of all the operating parts highlight the reliabilityof the apparatus (CB). General
experience in the electro -technical sector shows that mechanical faults are one of the most common
causes of a fault in an installation. The switchgear and apparatus it contains are tested by carrying out a
high number of operation - higher than those which are normally carried out in installations in service.
Moreover, the switchgear components are part of a quality program system and are regularly taken up from
the production lines and subjected to mechanical life tests to verify that the quality is identicalto that of
the components subjected to the type tests.
•Internal arc test
When developing modern medium voltage switchgear, personnel safety must necessarily take first place
and this is why the AMS switchgear has been designed and testedto withstand an internal arc due to a
short -circuit current of the same level as the maximum short -time withstandlevel. The tests show that the
metal housing of the switchgear is able to protect personnel working near the switchgear in the case of a
fault which evolves as far as strikingan internal arc. The test is performed in every HV –compartment of a
typical unit.
In accordance with the requirements of these standards,the tests were carried out on the switchgear
units considered most susceptibleto the effects of the tests and therefore the results are applicable to
the whole range. Apart from the type tests, each switchgear unit is subjected to routine tests in the
factory before its delivery. These tests are aimed at a functional check of the switchgearbased on the
specific characteristics of each installation. These include:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Visual inspection and check
Mechanical sequence operations
Cabling check
Electrical sequence operations
Insulation test (power frequency)
Measurement of the resistanceof the main circuits
Current transformer primary injection & polarity checks
Note –Additional routine tests for example partial discharge and CT secondary injection tests can be completed upon request
1.14 Mechanical Configurations
1.14.1 Busbar Ratings and Typical Switchgear Dimensions
Rated
Current (A) 630
1250
1600
2000
2500
Main Busbar, up to
1250A (mm) 1 x 80 x10 -
Main Busbar, up to
2000A (mm) 2 x 80 x10
Main Busbar, up to
2500A (mm)
2 x
100 x10
Main Busbar, up to
3150A (mm)
2 x
120 x10
Main Busbar, up to
4000A (mm)
3 x
120 x10
Pole Spacing
Panel Width
Panel Height
12kV
(mm) 150
210
275
24kV
(mm) 210
275
12kV
(mm) 650
800
1000
24kV
(mm) 800
1000
12kV
24kV
(mm)
12kV
(mm)
1400
24kV
(mm)
1680
(mm) 2250 (allowadditional 570 for arc tunnel)
Panel Depth
Table 2 –Busbar Ratings and Switchgear Dimensions
NOTE –Panel depth is subject to the number of current transformers installed.
NOTE –The Busbar ratings of the AMS switchgearare normally ratedup to 2500A, however higher ranges are
available on request up to 4000A.

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AMS
Front View SideView
NOTE The Standard panel h eight is 2250 mm, however if panel identification plate is fitted on top of LV compartment,the height
increases to 2300 mm. Typical Switchgear Dimensions (12kV)