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Transformers Page 1 of 11
Transformers
Input parameters
Protection of MV/LV transformers
The role of the transformer is to create a link between the HV network and the LV part of the installation, for installations
on which the power requires use of a transformer.
Limitations
The power of the transformers proposed by My Ecodial L varies from 50 kVA to 3200 kVA.
The phase to phase voltage at the transformer secondary varies from 220 V to 690 V.
Some transformer connection configurations on the circuit are not authorised. In short, the transformers can be used as a
main or replacement sources. In each case, up to 4 transformers can be parallel-connected. For more details, see circuits
authorised and circuits refused.
Choice of technology
At present, there is a choice of two technologies:
Safety of persons, at the transformer and in its vicinity. This safety aspect is dealt with in official recommendations
and regulations (standards NF C 27-300 and NF C 17-300). Oil-immersed transformers are forbidden in some
applications (tall buildings) and imply installation restrictions due to the fire hazard they represent.
The economic evaluation, in light of the advantages of each technique and the range of existing devices
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Transformers Page 2 of 11
Full load operation (efficiency which is maximum between 50 and 70% of maximum load is no longer optimum in
this case)
Overloads, which can have serious consequences on the installation (temperature rise of windings causing the
protection devices to trip) and on the transformer (premature ageing of insulation possibly leading to transformer
malfunctions).
To size a transformer, My Ecodial L first carries out a power sum for the installation, then chooses, from the standard
ratings proposed, the next highest value.
Caution: If installation total power is subsequently reduced, My Ecodial L will not lower the
transformer rating as it considers that this may be a deliberate choice on the part of the user
to oversize his installation.
My Ecodial L will calculate all the source characteristics from the transformer nominal power and the short-circuit power
of the HV network.
Description Content
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Transformers Page 3 of 11
Transformer copper losses. Value entered automatically but can be modified in manual
Copper losses (W)
mode.
HV Psc max (MVA) and Maximum and minimum values of the short-circuit power of the HV network (3). Default
HV Psc min (MVA) values (for both min and max): 500 MVA
Operating time of the high voltage protection device: 500 ms by default, 200ms or use
HV op. time (ms)
of a fuse.
IMD application field Field of application for IMD choice on an IT system Normal - Hospital
Ratio used for calculation of transformer resistance (see CENELEC R064-003, § 6.2).
RQ/XQ
Default value: 0,1. Modification of the default value will activate manual mode.
Ratio used for calculation of transformer reactance (see CENELEC R064-003, § 6.2).
XQ/ZQ
Default value: 0.995. Modification of the default value will activate manual mode.
(1) For TN-C systems, the protective conductor (PE) and the neutral are combined, thus the neutral is considered to be
distributed.
(2) Calculation guide UTE C15-500 (CENELEC R064-003) includes two nominal voltage coefficients:
Cmax: voltage factor equal to 1.05 for HV voltage fluctuations. For more details
m: no-load factor, equal to 1.05 to allow for transformer no-load voltage for calculation of maximum short-circuit
currents.
(3) These two values make it possible to take into account the maximum number of transformers connected to the same
HV network. By default (500 MVA for both values), the transformers are considered to be connected to different networks.
(4) TT systems have separate neutral and ECP earthing electrodes. If this is not the case (RA + RB very low, for example
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Transformers Page 4 of 11
< 0.5 ohm), use of a TN system is recommended. If the TT system is conserved in spite of this recommendation, the
requirements concerning separate neutral and ECP earthing electrodes are not applied (for example the limitation of the
size of the PE to 25 mm² or 35 mm² depending on the type of conductor as specified in NF C 15-100).
Calculated values
Visible in the calculation traces
HV network R Ph (mOhm) Equivalent resistance per phase of the high voltage network in mOhm
HV network X Ph (mOhm) Equivalent reactance per phase of the high voltage network in mOhm
Max lsc by source (kA) Maximum short-circuit current downstream from a transformer
See also
Calculation of the HV network resistance and reactance per phase
Calculation of the resistance and reactance: standard NF C 15-100
Calculation of the resistance and reactance: standard IEC 60364
Transformer help
Designing the protection conductor between the MV/LV transformer and the main
low voltage switchboard (MLVS)
The conductors upstream of the
main LV protection device are
protected by the MV protection.
They must be sized as per tables
2A and 2B, in the UTE C15-106
guide, produced on the basis of
NFC 15-100.
My Ecodial L calculates only one
transformer per circuit, i.e. the
power rating taken into account is
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Transformers Page 5 of 11
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Sizing and protection of the conductor between the MV/LV transformer and the
MLVS
Traditional circuit
Conductor C4 is therefore sized taking into account the thermal setting for circuit breaker Q4 situated just
upstream. This calculation principle is systematically applied by My Ecodial L.
Source circuit
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Transformers Page 7 of 11
To protect conductor C1 between the transformer and the main incoming device, My Ecodial L supposes that the MV
protection upstream of the transformer protects C1 downstream of the transformer.
In that My Ecodial L is unaware of the thermal setting for protection device Q0, it proceeds as follows:
the operational current Ib at Q1 is assumed equal to the rated current InTR of the transformer (worst case)
using the maximum short-circuit current, it selects a circuit breaker Q1 with sufficient breaking capacity, then a
rating for circuit breaker Q1 that is higher than Ib
(i.e. = InTR)
My Ecodial L sets the thermal protection for circuit breaker Q1 such that Irth > Ib (= InTR)
My Ecodial L selects conductor C1 such that Iz>Ib (= InTR).
Conductor C1 is therefore sized taking into account the rating of the transformer, instead of the thermal
setting of the MV protection device of the transformer. C1, oversized with respect to the real operational
current, can handle increases in installation loads. The thermal protection for circuit breaker Q1 is also set
for the transformer rating. This setting can be modified manually to adjust it to the real operational current at
Q1, but this modification is the responsibility of the user.
See also
Input parameters
Transformer help
In that the main equipotential connection is made in the MLVS, it is not necessary to take into account the impedance of
the PE (or PEN in a TN-C system) between the source and the MLVS in the loop used to calculate the fault current. In My
Ecodial L, this impedance is that of the source circuit (MV/LV transformer, generator or any other type of source).
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Transformers Page 8 of 11
Where:
and are the resistance and reactance of the protection conductor from the main equipotential
connection or the local connection to the start of the circuit under consideration
Cmin = 0.95
and are the number of conductors for the phase and the protection conductor, respectively
and are the resistance and reactance of a phase conductor from the source to the start of the circuit
under consideration
and are the resistance and reactance of the circuit upstream of the source
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Transformers Page 9 of 11
is equal to 1 in a TN system, 0.86 in an IT system without a neutral and 0.5 en IT in an IT system with a
neutral
When calculating and , it is not necessary to take into account the connection between the transformers and
the MLVS at which the equipotential connection is made.
See also
Input parameters
Transformer help
The values of 0.1 and 0.995 are those defined by the CENELEC R064-003 report (section 6.2) but can be modified via the
RQ/XQ and XQ/ZQ characteristics. This modification causes a shift to manual mode for the component.
See also
Input parameters
Transformer help
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Transformers Page 10 of 11
for NF C 15-100
(§C.2.1.2.3 b) for a voltage of 400V. For other voltages, they must be multiplied by a coefficient
2. manual operation:
identical to standard IEC 60364, that is to say:
RT = Transformer resistance
XT = Transformer reactance
ZT = Transformer impedance
U = Network voltage
Ucc = short-circuit voltage (%)
See also
Input parameters
Transformer help
RT = Transformer resistance
XT = Transformer reactance
ZT = Transformer impedance
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Transformers Page 11 of 11
U = Network voltage
Ucc = short-circuit voltage (%)
See also
Input parameters
Transformer help
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Generators Page 1 of 6
Generators
Input parameters
Most electrical installations contain loads that must be supplied even if the public electrical distribution system fails.
This is either because they are part of a safety system (emergency lighting, booster pumps, smoke extractors, alarms,
indicators, etc.) or because they are critical in nature and an extended shutdown would be dangerous to life and
property or cause production losses.
One of the means commonly used to satisfy the need for continuous power consists of installing an engine generator
set to restore power to priority loads, via one or more source changeover switches, in the event of a failure on the
normal source.
However, use of two different sources generates an additional problem when choosing the protection devices for the
priority circuits as they must be compatible with the characteristics of both sources.
My Ecodial L solves this problem by comprehensive calculations that ensure optimum sizing of the ac generator and
the protection devices.
Some networks are supplied only by generators. This case is also treated by My Ecodial L.
Limitations
Generators can be used in My Ecodial L as main or replacement sources. However, some configurations are
prohibited.
See prohibited configurations and authorised configurations
In brief, all circuits must have at least one main source. Up to 4 parallel-connected generators can be used, provided
they are all connected to the same busbars. A generator cannot be connected to a busbar trunking system.
As a replacement source, the generator can be connected to busbars other than the normal source busbars. This
represents a subdivision of the network into priority circuits, connected to the replacement supply, and non-priority
circuits, which are not powered during failures of the normal source. In this configuration, up to 4 replacement
generators can be parallel-connected.
Power failures mean that it is often necessary to provide a replacement source. However, sizing the replacement
installation for the complete circuit can be expensive and pointless as some of the equipment is vital for safety or
production whereas other less strategic equipment can be temporarily stopped without risk. The installation is thus
divided into priority and non-priority circuits, thereby reducing the required capacity of the replacement source.
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Generators Page 2 of 6
See also
AC generator short-circuit
Description Content
Power factor Cos phi at genset terminals (required to calculate voltage drop)
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Generators Page 3 of 6
Neutral earthing electrode Value of the neutral earthing electrode resistance in Ohms (any value)
resistance RA (ohms) Displayed for TT systems
ECP earthing electrode Value of the ECP earthing electrode resistance in Ohms (any value)
resistance RB (ohms) Displayed for TT systems
(1) For TN-C systems, the protective conductor (PE) and neutral are combined, thus the neutral is considered to be
distributed.
(2) The calculation guide CENELEC R064-003 includes two nominal voltage coefficients:
Cmax equal to 1.05 to take into account the genset no-load voltage.
m equal to 1.05 for genset voltage fluctuations.
The CENELEC guide considers generators only as a replacement source for transformers.
The guide does not consider calculation of the maximum short-circuit currents for
generator applications and takes into account only the transient reactance and zero-
sequence reactance, not the subtransient reactance.
To simulate the conditions of the CENELEC guide, the value of the subtransient reactance
must be entered as the same value as the transient reactance (this is equivalent to not
taking the subtransient reactance into account).
For a network with a main source and a replacement source, the voltages, frequencies,
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Generators Page 4 of 6
Calculated values
Visible in the input grid
Max lsc per source (kA) Maximum short-circuit current downstream of generator
See also
Generator help
When a short-circuit occurs across the terminals of an ac generator, the current is first established at a relatively high
value of around 3 to 5 ln (this is the "subtransient" period lasting from 10 to 20 ms), before decreasing (the "transient"
period lasting from 100 to 300 ms) to stabilise (after 0.5 s) at a value which, depending on the type of regulation, can
vary by roughly 0.3 or 4 times the nominal current of the ac generator.
There is a reactance corresponding to each of these three periods:
Subtransient (Xd’’): thus present for 10 to 20 ms after the start of the fault, used to check withstand to
electrodynamic forces and the breaking capacity of circuit-breakers for which the breaking time is greater than
10 or 20 ms.
Transient (Xd’): used to check withstand to conductor thermal stresses and the breaking capacity of circuit-
breakers for which the breaking time is greater than 10 or 20 ms.
Synchronous or permanent (Xd): to be considered after the transient period
Zero-sequence (Xo)
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The reactances listed above can be obtained from the manufacturer. In the absence of more detailed information and
according to the recommendations of the practical guide UTE C 15-500 (CENELEC R064-003), we shall take:
xd’ = 30 %, xo = 6 %
Similarly, we shall take the value of 20% for xd’’ (value not specified in the practical guide UTE C 15-500).
My Ecodial L calculates the various short-circuit currents as per standard NFC 15-105. The fact that in some cases a
single-phase short-circuit current (Ik1) is obtained that is greater than the three-phase short-circuit current (Ik3) is
normal and complies with the standard.
More info
For an ac generator with serial excitation, after the transient period (0.1 to 0.3 s), the short-circuit current is established
at approximately 0.3 ln. This means that if the protection devices have not tripped during the subtransient or transient
period, then the small value of the short-circuit current will not be sufficient to make them trip after.
To avoid this phenomenon, ac generators are used with compound excitation or over-excitation. In this case, the value
of the short-circuit current after the transient period rises to approximately 3 ln, which is sufficient to trip the protection
devices.
The large majority of ac generators are equipped with compound excitation. Consequently, the standard recommends
carrying out short-circuit current calculations with the reactance Xd’: this is equivalent to considering that short-circuit
current will not drop. My Ecodial L follows the recommendations of the standard and considers that the ac generators
are equipped with compound excitation.
See also
Generator help
"When calculating short-circuit and fault currents, the symmetrical components should be used to determine the
characteristics of the generator (X'd transient, X''d sub-transient and Xo phase-sequence reactances).
Given that the CENELEC R064 003 report uses the impedance calculation method, the symmetrical components must
be transformed into resistance and reactance values.
For a replacement genset, the most significant value is the minimum short-circuit current or the fault current. This is
because the maximum short-circuit current is low. The transient reactance X'd is therefore the right choice.
The problem would be different if the gensets constituted the main source (e.g. the situation on a ship), in which case it
would be necessary to select the X"d sub-transient reactance)."
Excerpt from an article in the J3E journal published by the Union Technique de l'Electricité, August/September 2003.
Note. My Ecodial L does not yet take into account the last point which will be included in a later version.
Equations
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Generators Page 6 of 6
Zo = (2.X'd+Xo)/3
cmin is the minimum voltage factor = 0.95
m is the no-load factor = 1.05
Uo is the phase-to-neutral voltage (230 V)
Xo (mOhms) = Un² xo / (100 P)
{ Un is the phase-to-phase voltage (400 V)
{ xo is the phase-sequence reactance in %
{ P is the rated power of the generator
Application
Consider a generator rated 500 kVA, where xd’ = 30%, xo = 6%
X'd = 96 mOhms
Xo = 19 mOhms
Zo = 70 mOhms
Therefore
Ik3max = 2.6 kA
Ik1max or If = 3.3 kA
The fault current is therefore the major value for a generator used as a replacement source.
Note that for a transformer with an equal rating, the short-circuit current is four times higher.
Return to previous page
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Any source Page 1 of 28
Any source
This component is used to model sources. To see what types of circuits My Ecodial L can model using this component, consult
types of circuits accepted and types of circuits refused .
Two selection windows must be filled in to allow the component to be treated by My Ecodial L. The main input data are the
maximum three-phase short-circuit current (Ik3max) and the minimum single-phase short-circuit current (Ik1min).
Using these values, the characteristics of the impedances of the various supply upstream connections are defined, i.e. the phase,
neutral and PE conductors, irrespective of the earthing system.
Description Content
I service connection
Value of the current provided by the energy supplier.
(A)
Characteristics accessible only for France. Two possible choices: private substation , EDF
Energy supplier
substation.
Second window
A second window follows depending on the choices made in the first window:
TT without neutral
TT with full neutral
TT with reduced neutral
TN-C with full PEN without incoming equipotential
TN-C with reduced PEN without incoming equipotential
TN-C with incoming equipotential
TN-S with undistributed neutral and without incoming equipotential
TN-S with undistributed neutral and with incoming equipotential
TN-S with full neutral and without incoming equipotential
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TT earthing arrangement
1. TT without neutral
1. Data
Uo
In
Cos PHI
Ik3max
Cos PHI SC
Rs
Rm
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The neutral earthing connection resistance Rs, called in My Ecodial L, has in France, according to
NFC 11 201, a total value of < 15 W.
For the earth earthing connection resistance Rm, called in My Ecodial L, PROMOTELEC
recommends a value of < 100 W.
A test can be carried out and the user informed if the values entered are higher.
2. Calculations
1. Data
Uo
In
Cos PHI
Ik3max
Ik1min
Cos PHI SC
Rs
Rm
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2.Checking
If
"OK"
If
"Upstream, neutral earthing is close to the incomer. Check?"
"The value of the single-phase short-circuit cannot be greater than the three-
If phase short-circuit. This data is replaced by the maximum value possible. "
3. Calculations
(1)
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(1)
(1): Taking the same short-circuit power factor (cos phi) for Ik3 and Ik1 leads to these calculation approximations.
1. Data
Uo
In
Cos PHI
Ik3max
Ik1min
Cos PHI SC
Rs
Rm
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2. Checking
"OK"
If
If
"Upstream, neutral earthing is close to the incomer. Check?"
"The value of the single-phase short-circuit cannot be greater than the three-
If phase short-circuit. This data is replaced by the maximum value possible."
3. Calculations
(1)
(1): Taking the same short-circuit power factor (cos phi) for Ik3 and Ik1 leads to these calculation approximations.
See also
Any source help
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1. Data
Uo
In
Cos PHI
Ik3max
Ik1min
Cos PHI SC
Figure 4: diagram upstream from point A in TN-C with full PEN without equipotential
2. Checking
If
"OK"
"The value of the single-phase short-circuit cannot be greater than the three-
If phase short-circuit. This data is replaced by the maximum value possible."
3. Calculations
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(1)
(1)
(1): Taking the same short-circuit power factor (cos phi) for Ik3 and Ik1 leads to these calculation approximations.
1. Data
Uo
In
Cos PHI
Ik3max
Ik1min
Cos PHI SC
Figure 5: diagram upstream from point A in TN-C with reduced PEN without equipotential
2. Checking
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If "The value of the single-phase short-circuit cannot be less than nominal current."
If
"OK"
"The value of the single-phase short-circuit cannot be greater than the three-phase short-
If circuit. This data is replaced by the maximum value possible."
3. Calculations
(1)
(1)
(1): Taking the same short-circuit power factor (cos phi) for Ik3 and Ik1 leads to these calculation approximations.
1. Data
Uo
In
Cos PHI
Ik3max
Cos PHI SC
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2. Calculations
See also
Any source help
1. Data
Uo
In
Cos PHI
Ik3max
If
Cos PHI SC
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Figure 7: diagram upstream from point A in TN-S with undistributed neutral and without equipotential
2. Checking
If "The value of the fault current cannot be less than nominal current."
If
"OK"
If
"The value of the fault curent cannot be greater than the three-phase short-circuit. This data is
replaced by the maximum value possible."
3. Calculations
(1)
(1)
(1): Taking the same short-circuit power factor (cos phi) for Ik3 and Ik1 leads to these calculation approximations.
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1. Data
Uo
In
Cos PHI
Ik3max
Cos PHI SC
Figure 8: diagram upstream from point A in TN-S with undistributed neutral and equipotential
2. Calculations
1. Data
Uo
In
Cos PHI
Ik3max
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Ik1min
If
Cos PHI SC
Figure 9: diagram upstream from point A in TN-S with full neutral and without equipotential
2. Checking
If
"OK"
If
"Upstream, neutral earthing is close to the incomer. Check?"
"The value of the single-phase short-circuit cannot be greater than the three-
If phase short-circuit. This data is replaced by the maximum value possible."
If "The value of the fault current cannot be less than the nominal current."
"OK"
If
"The value of the fault current cannot be greater than the three-phase short-
If circuit. This data is replaced by the maximum value possible."
3. Calculations
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(1)
(1)
(1)
(1)
(1): Taking the same short-circuit power factor (cos phi) for Ik3 and Ik1 leads to these calculation approximations.
1. Data
Uo
In
Cos PHI
Ik3max
Ik1min
Cos PHI SC
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Figure 10: diagram upstream from point A in TN-S with full neutral and equipotential
2. Checking
If
"OK"
If
"Upstream, neutral earthing is close to the incomer. Check?"
"The value of the single-phase short-circuit cannot be greater than the three-
If phase short-circuit. This data is replaced by the maximum value possible."
3. Calculations
(1)
(1)
(1): Taking the same short-circuit power factor (cos phi) for Ik3 and Ik1 leads to these calculation approximations.
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1. Data
Uo
In
Cos PHI
Ik3max
Ik1min
If
Cos PHI SC
Figure 11: diagram upstream from point A in TN-S with reduced neutral and without equipotential
2. Checking
"OK"
If
If
"Upstream, neutral earthing is close to the incomer. Check?"
"The value of the single-phase short-circuit cannot be greater than the three-
If phase short-circuit. This data is replaced by the maximum value possible."
If "The value of the fault current cannot be less than the nominal current."
"OK"
If
"The value of the fault current cannot be greater than the three-phase short-
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If
3. Calculations
(1)
(1)
(1)
(1): Taking the same short-circuit power factor (cos phi) for Ik3 and Ik1 leads to these calculation approximations.
1. Data
Uo
In
Cos PHI
Ik3max
Ik1min
Cos PHI SC
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Figure 12: diagram upstream from point A in TN-S with reduced neutral and incoming equipotential
2. Checking
"OK"
If
If
"Upstream, neutral earthing is close to the incomer. Check?"
"The value of the single-phase short-circuit cannot be greater than the three-
If phase short-circuit. This data is replaced by the maximum value possible."
3. Calculations
(1)
(1)
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(1): Taking the same short-circuit power factor (cos phi) for Ik3 and Ik1 leads to these calculation approximations.
See also
Any source help
IT earthing arrangement
1. Data
Uo
In
Cos PHI
Ik3max
Cos PHI SC
2. Calculations
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1. Data
Uo
In
Cos PHI
Ik3max
Ik1min
Cos PHI SC
2. Checking
If
"OK"
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"The value of the single-phase short-circuit cannot be greater than the three-
If phase short-circuit. This data is replaced by the maximum value possible."
3. Calculations
(1)
(1)
(1): Taking the same short-circuit power factor (cos phi) for Ik3 and Ik1 leads to these calculation approximations.
1. Data
Uo
In
Cos PHI
Ik3max
Ik1min
Cos PHI SC
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2. Checking
"OK"
Si
Si
"The upstream transformer is close to the incomer. Check?"
"The value of the single-phase short-circuit cannot be greater than the three-
Si phase short-circuit. This data is replaced by the maximum value possible."
3. Calculations
(1)
(1)
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(1): Taking the same short-circuit power factor (cos phi) for Ik3 and Ik1 leads to these calculation approximations.
See also
Any source help
Examples
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The neutral of the low voltage network is not earthed at the substation itself. It is earthed elsewhere on the LV network by one
or more earth electrodes according to the recommendations of section 3.8, chapter 3 of the present standard. The resistance of
the overall LV neutral earth circuit must not exceed 15 Ω (*).
These two earth circuits must be electrically independent (**) so that, in the event of a fault on the medium voltage network, the
potential of the earth circuit used for the exposed conductive parts will not rise and affect the LV network.
This is achieved by maintaining a minimum distance between the earthing point of the exposed conductive parts and the
nearest neutral earthing point. This minimum distance is 15 metres for soil with an average resistivity of less than 300 Ωm and
30 metres for ground with higher resistivity values.
3.8.1 LV lines
The neutral conductor of overhead lines exceeding a length of 100 m must be earthed at more than one point and the average
number of earthing points must be at least one per 200 m. Each earth electrode must have a maximum resistance of 100 Ω.
The total resistance of the earth electrodes is indicated in section 5.2.1.1.
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See also
Any source help
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Values of power factors corresponding to circuit breaker short-circuit test currents: Table 16, IEC 947-2 :
I<=1500 0.95
where Z is more globally the impedance upstream of the point considered, i.e. upstream of the supply point of "any source".
Calculation of the upstream impedances as a function of the short-circuit level show that the values of Z are continuous. The
method used by My Ecodial L now gives continuous and consistent results.
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See also
Any source help
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Presentation
Upstream project references are used to connect together two networks. In this configuration, the upstream network,
represented by the upstream project reference circuit, is considered to be the normal source of the downstream
network to which it forwards the following characteristics:
voltage
earthing arrangement
type of network (single-phase or three-phase, with or without neutral)
impedances
voltage drop
However, the selected protection devices are not forwarded to the downstream project. Consequence: no cascading or
discrimination is possible between the two networks.
Moreover the busbars to which the upstream project reference circuit are connected are considered to be the mains LV
switchboard (MLVS). It is therefore possible to connect a capacitor bank.
Note:
This component was introduced to overcome the limitation of My Ecodial L to 75 circuits. This limit was eliminated with
version 3.3 but the component was conserved to maintain compatibility with older versions.
Input parameters
Description Content
Name of file containing the upstream network. This file must be in the same directory as the
Upstream project current project. The project must be completely calculated with the same software version as
the downstream project.
Upstream circuit Name of the upstream network circuit to which the downstream network is connected.
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run..
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Capacitors Page 1 of 10
Capacitors
Input parameters
Limitations
First of all, My Ecodial L only deals with 3-phase capacitor banks, which corresponds to most power factor correction (or reactive energy
compensation) applications.
With respect to earthing arrangements, My Ecodial L does not deal with TN-C arrangements or IT with neutral arrangements. It therefore imposes
a TN-S arrangement if the user requests a TN-C arrangement and an IT arrangement without neutral if the user requests an IT arrangement with
neutral. Note that since most capacitors operate with three phases and no neutral, the TN-S arrangement represents a viable and more
economical solution than a TN-S arrangement.
Finally, with respect to the location of capacitor banks, My Ecodial L only deals with overall reactive energy compensation in which capacitor
banks are installed at head of the installation, and not with local or individual compensation. See location of banks
Reactive energy
Electrical energy consists of active energy and reactive energy. Active energy (kWh) results from the active power P (kW) of the loads. It is fully
converted into mechanical power (work) and heat (losses). The reactive energy consumed (kvarh) is used to supply the magnetic circuits of the
electrical machines. It corresponds to the reactive power Q (kvar) of the loads.
Apparent energy (kVAh) is the vector sum of the two energies mentioned above. It corresponds to the apparent power S (kVA) of the loads.
Reactive energy consumers are inductive devices (asynchronous motors, fluorescent light ballasts, static inverters, etc.)
Circulation of reactive energy has major technical and economic consequences. This is because the greater the reactive power, the more apparent
power and thus current must be supplied for the same reactive power. This greater drawn current results in overloads at transformer level, supply
cable temperature rise, additional losses, large voltage drops and, for the electricity producer, more current to be supplied.
The graph shows that for the same useful or active power, the greater the reactive energy drawn (case corresponding to Q2), the greater the
apparent power S2. To reduce the apparent power drawn from the network from S2 to S1, we must connect a capacitor bank to supply reactive
energy Qc, such that: Qc = P * (tan phi2 - tan phi).
To encourage compensation of reactive energy consumption and avoid oversizing the network, the electrical utility applies penalties to consumers
who overrun a certain threshold of reactive energy consumption.
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Capacitors sizing
Capacitors are sized according to the required power factor (cos phi) and to network voltage and frequency. This is because the reactive energy
supplied by the capacitor is equal to:
Q = w x C x U2
where Q = reactive energy (kvar)
C = Capacitor capacitance (Farads)
w = angular frequency in radians per second (w = 2p f where f is the frequency in Hertz)
U = voltage across capacitor terminals
See also
Location of banks
Choice of compensation type
SAH type banks
Harmonics problems
Examples of installations with harmonic pollution
Problem of transient switching conditions
Input parameters
Description Content
Pre-compensation power Value of overall cosphi of the installation before power factor correction
factor Value calculated and entered automatically from the power sum
Harmonics power Sum of the powers in kVA of all non-linear loads (free value)
Resonance frequency of the L-C assembly. It must be chosen in such a way that remote control frequencies are
Reactor turning order
not disturbed.
Calculated values
Visible in the input grid
See also
Capacitor help
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There are three possible locations. My Ecodial L only treats overall compensation, which is why capacitor banks must be installed at the head
of the installation.
Overall compensation
The bank is connected at the incoming end of the installation and ensures reactive energy compensation for all loads. It is suitable when the main
aim is to eliminate penalties and relieve the transformer substation.
2 other locations, not treated by My Ecodial L, however exist:
The bank is installed at the head of the installation sector to be corrected. It is suitable when the installation is large and contains workshops with
different load conditions.
Individual compensation
The bank is connected directly to the terminals of each inductive load (in particular, motors). It must be considered when motor power is a major
part of the subscribed power. This compensation is technically ideal as it produces reactive energy at the very point where it is consumed, and in
quantities adjusted to the demand. Economically speaking, this solution requires a greater initial investment.
See also
Example of motor compensation
Capacitor help
Fixed compensation
The capacitor bank is either on or off. This compensation type is used when reactive power is low (< 15% of transformer power) and the load
relatively stable.
15% < Gh/Sn <= 25% polluted network installation with type Comfort capacitors
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25% < Gh/Sn <= 50% highly polluted network installation with type Harmony capacitors
See also
SAH type banks
Harmonics problems
Examples of installations with harmonic pollution
Problem of transient switching conditions
Capacitor help
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For severely polluted networks, the use of Harmony type capacitor banks is recommended. They are made up of detuned reactors combined with
oversized capacitors.
See also
Capacitor help
Choice of compensation type
Motor compensation
It is thus a good idea to install capacitors for this type of load to compensate for reactive power consumption and increase the power factor of the
installation.
When a motor drives a load with high inertia, it may, after interruption of the supply voltage, continue to run using its kinetic energy and be self-
excited by a capacitor bank installed at its terminals.
The capacitors supply the motor with the reactive energy it needs to operate as an asynchronous generator. This self-excitation maintains voltage
and can lead to high overvoltages.
To prevent dangerous overvoltages due to self-excitation phenomena, you must ensure that capacitor bank power satisfies the following equation:
Io can be estimated by the following expression: Io = 2 In ( 1 - cos ϕ n ), where ϕ n is the nominal cos ϕ
See also
Capacitor bank location
The permissible variations in the value of fundamental voltage and harmonic components may lead to a 30 to 45% current increase in the
capacitors. Variations due to tolerances on capacitor capacitance can result in an additional 15% increase (as per standard NFC 15-104). For
Rectiphase capacitors, this additional increase is limited to 5 %.
The cumulated effect of these two phenomena means that equipment must be sized for the following currents:
1.36 times the rated current for standard capacitor banks (Classic type)
1.5 times the rated current for Rectiphase reinforced capacitor banks (Comfort type)
1.12 times the rated current for Rectiphase capacitor banks protected by reactors (Harmony type) with a tuning order of 2.7
1.19 times the rated current for Rectiphase capacitor banks protected by reactors (Harmony type) with a tuning order of 3.8
1.31 times the rated current for Rectiphase capacitor banks protected by reactors (Harmony type) with a tuning order of 4.3
See also
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Capacitor help
Harmonics problems
Some non-linear devices are responsible for the circulation of harmonics on the network. For example, power electronics equipment (variable
speed drives, diode rectifier bridges, thyristors or transistors, inverters or switch mode power supplies), loads using electric arcs (arc furnaces,
welding machines), lighting (discharge lamp ballasts, fluorescent lights and, finally, to a lesser extent, equipment with magnetic circuits such as AC
generators and transformers.
These harmonics disturb the operation of many electronic devices and machines. In particular, capacitors are extremely sensitive to them as their
impedance decreases in proportion to the harmonic number of the harmonics present. If the natural frequency of the capacitor-network assembly
is close to a harmonic number, resonance will occur, amplifying the corresponding harmonic. In this particular case, the resulting current will cause
temperature rise and then disruptive breakdown of the capacitor. Solutions are available to limit these risks and ensure proper operation of the
capacitors.
To deal with this phenomenon, a variety of capacitor bank types are used (see the table on choice of compensation type): Classic, Comfort,
Harmony (with detuning reactors), or if the network has an extremely high level of harmonic pollution, filters. My Ecodial L takes harmonics
problems into account. According to the network pollution rate, it imposes a type of capacitor (Classic, Comfort, or Harmony). However, My
Ecodial L does not handle filters.
For more details on harmonics problems, see Merlin Gerin “Cahier Technique” publication no. 152
See also
Capacitor help
Choice of compensation type
Switching of a capacitor bank is accompanied by transient current and voltage conditions. Overcurrents and overvoltages appear, the amplitude
and frequency of which depend on the characteristics of the upstream network and the number of capacitor banks (fixed or stepped banks). As a
rule, pre-insertion resistances, used to limit the switching inrush current, are installed by the manufacturer
My Ecodial L does not take into account problems relating to transient conditions for capacitor banks.
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In this matter, you can also consult « The Low Voltage Expert Guide » no. 6 p. 8 to 12.
See also
Capacitor help
Choice of compensation type
Installation examples
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GH / Sn = 15%
Harmonic voltages on 400 V busbar
Total harmonic distortion THD(U) = 3%
RMS voltage at capacitor terminals = 432 V
Choice of bank:
Classic capacitors.
Voltage Un = 400 V given that capacitor limit = 1.1 Un = 440 V.
Results
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GH / Sn = 20 %
Harmonic voltages on 400 V busbars
Total harmonic distortion THD(U) = 4%
RMS voltage at capacitor terminals = 460 V
Choice of bank:
Results
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GH / Sn = 50%
Harmonic voltages on 400 V busbars
Total harmonic distortion THD(U) = 10%
RMS voltage at capacitor terminals = 445 V
Choice of bank:
Results
See also
Capacitor help
Choice of compensation type
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Busbars
The switchboard houses the switchgear, controlgear and other distribution components of the electrical installation. It
consists of a number of parts known as functional units. Each functional unit includes all the mechanical and electrical
parts required to carry out a given function. The switchboard has a major influence on the overall dependability of the
installation. Consequently, the type of switchboard must be perfectly suited to its application. It must be designed and
manufactured in compliance with applicable standards and standard working practice.
The switchboard enclosure offers two types of protection:
Protection of the enclosed devices against vibrations, mechanical shocks and other external factors
Protection of people against electric shocks
The reference standards for switchboards in France are NFC 61 - 910, NF C63 - 410 and NF C 63 - 412. The
reference standard from the international viewpoint is IEC 439-1, which defines the conditions for producing Type
Tested Assemblies (TTA) and Partially Type Tested Assemblies (PTTA).
Uncalculated busbars (zero impedance) are used to represent tap-offs under a given circuit. These busbars are
fictitious and are simply a means to represent a number of outgoers on a given tap-off.
To place uncalculated busbars, position a "busbar" circuit on the diagram, then modify the circuit if necessary to
transform the calculated busbars into a tap-off.
Calculated busbars
Input parameters
These busbars represent all types of switchboard (main LV board, secondary boards, final distribution boards, control
and monitoring boards).
Description Content
Busbar range:
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For more details on the busbars of the Merlin Gerin Prisma range, consult the catalogue.
Nominal current of the busbar. If the value is zero, My Ecodial L will look for the thermal
In(A) setting of the upstream protection device. If the value is entered by the user, My Ecodial L
will check consistency with the thermal setting of the upstream protection device.
Number of bars in
Number of parallel-connected busbars
parallel
Earthing
TT - IT - TN-C - TN-S - Upstream (= that defined for the upstream circuit)
arrangement
Metal Type of metal: Copper or Aluminium (Aluminium for a customised busbars only)
Phase to earth fault Standards stipulates a breaking time such that the fault is eliminated in less than 5s. In some
max. breaking time cases a 5s breaking time is permitted, particularly for primary networks.
Calculated values
Description Content
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See also
Busbar help
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Input parameters
Busbar trunking systems (BTS) offer easy implementation, flexibility and a number of possible connection points.
Busbar trunking systems require special treatment from My Ecodial L and some configurations cannot be dealt with. For more details, consult accepted circuits with BTSs
and refused circuits with BTSs.
With cables, the cost of modifications varies considerably according to the distance between the switchboard and the point of use. When modifications are likely to be
frequent, busbar trunking systems offer a number of advantages.
Busbar trunking systems are dealt with in standard NF C 63-411. Guide UTE C 15-107 gives the conditions for determining the characteristics of busbar trunking systems
and choosing the protection devices. For more details!
Due to their diversity, busbar trunking systems can be used to distribute electrical power from the output of the HV/LV transformers right on through to the loads.
There are three main categories:
Busbar trunking systems for the transformer / main LV switchboard connection: This connection is designed for the transformer power rating and its installation is
virtually permanent and unchangeable. It has no tap-offs. Extensively used for short connections, it is widespread beyond ratings of 2000 / 2500 A. Standard NF C
15-100 (§523.6) requires use of busbar trunking systems for cases involving more than 4 parallel-connected cables (§ B 5.2). For more details!
Busbar trunking systems for distribution: these can be very variable in size and are used to:
{ Perform distribution along a main line.
{ Supply other subdistribution or final distribution conductors, which require a high degree of flexibility.
{ Supply load points directly.
{ For more details!
Prefabricated installation systems for final distribution (NF C 61-306): These trunking systems comprise the conductors allowing rapid connection of 10/16 A socket
outlets at specific points. They ensure horizontal and vertical distribution by means of plinths or columns and can convey energy as close as possible to the
installation thanks to a functional and attractive design. They can include other circuits with the corresponding outlets (telephone, computer network, bus, etc.).
Flexibility of use combined with great adaptability to changing needs justifies their use in final distribution.
See also
BTS sizing principles
BTS overload sizing
BTS voltage drops
BTS minimum short-circuit currents
Checking the BTS in automatic and manual mode
Calculation of BTS max lsc
Description Content
distribution - rising main - standard lighting - strip lighting. This characteristic is not displayed if the BTS is of the feeder or final
Application
distribution.
Number of circuits 1 -2 Orients the choice towards a BTS offering two circuits or ribbon cables (KBB range)
Type of tap-off Bolt-on tap-off units - Plug-in tap-off units Displayed for rising main and distribution applications
Load distribution Load calculation method: Uniform distribution - Non-uniform distribution Displayed for rising main and distribution applications
Spacing Distance between luminaire centres. Displayed for standard lighting or strip lighting applications. Two possible choices: <= 3m or > 3m
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Line max. Delta U (%) Maximum voltage drop authorised for the busbar trunking
See also
BTS help contents
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According to the type of circuit (main or replacement), the most restrictive values are used in the calculations.
See also
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Variables Comments
DU(i) Voltage drop on tap-off number i of the BTS with any load
Uo Voltage
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K
K = Kpoldu x Kcharge where Kpoldu is a coefficient depending on polarity and Kcharge =
Variables Comments
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DU(i) Voltage drop on tap-off number i of the BTS with any load
IB Operational current
Uo Voltage
K
K = Kpoldu x Kcharge where Kpoldu is a coefficient depending on polarity and Kcharge = if any load, else 0.5.
See also
Return to the BTS help contents
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Variables Comments
Tf Blowing time of the fuse (if applicable) or of the protection device in general
Uo Voltage
Minimum phase to phase loop resistance. This is the sum of the minimum upstream phase resistance and of the resistance derived from the
RbPhMin
manufacturer table corresponding to the chosen BTS
minimum phase to phase loop reactance. This is the sum of the minimum upstream phase reactance and of the reactance derived from the manufacturer
XbPhMin
table corresponding to the chosen BTS
Thermal stress
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If My Ecodial L does not find a busbar trunking system quickly enough, it will stop searching and display an error message in the calculation
screen.
Another busbar trunking system is chosen by imposing a lower impedance. Consequently, the short-circuit current is lower and the
requirements are easier to comply with.
Variables Comments
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Tf Blowing time of the fuse (if applicable) or of the protection device in general
Uo Voltage
Minimum phase to neutral loop resistance. This is the sum of the minimum upstream neutral resistance and of the resistance derived from the
RbNeMin
manufacturer table corresponding to the chosen BTS
Minimum phase to neutral loop reactance. This is the sum of the minimum upstream neutral reactance and of the reactance derived from the
XbNeMin
manufacturer table corresponding to the chosen BTS
Thermal stress
If My Ecodial L does not find a busbar trunking system quickly enough, it will stop searching and display an error message in the calculation
screen.
Another busbar trunking system is chosen by imposing a lower impedance. Consequently, the short-circuit current is lower and the
requirements are easier to comply with.
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Variables Comments
Idéfaut Phase to earth minimum short-circuit current, also known as fault current
Tf Blowing time of the fuse (if applicable) or of the protection device in general
alpha
IT without neutral
Uo Voltage
Minimum phase to earth loop resistance. This is the sum of the minimum upstream earth resistance and of the resistance derived from the manufacturer
RbPeMin
table corresponding to the chosen BTS
Minimum phase to earth loop reactance. This is the sum of the minimum upstream earth reactance and of the reactance derived from the manufacturer
XbPeMin
table corresponding to the chosen BTS
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Thermal stress
If My Ecodial L does not find a busbar trunking system quickly enough, it will stop searching and display an error message in the calculation
screen.
Another busbar trunking system is chosen by imposing a lower impedance. Consequently, the short-circuit current is lower and the
requirements are easier to comply with.
See also
BTS help contents
three-phase: IK3MAX
two-phase: IK2MAX
single-phase: IK1MAX
Uo:Voltage
Cmax: Constant = 1.05
RKMAX = Upstream resistance + Resistance characteristic of the BTS (taken from the manufacturer table)
XKMAX = Upstream reactance + Reactance characteristic of the BTS (taken from the manufacturer table)
This calculation is not directly used for choosing a busbar trunking system, but is performed in this case on the connection so that it can be
considered for the sizing of downstream circuits.
See also
Return to the BTS help contents
My Ecodial L chooses a busbar trunking system that satisfies the overload condition:
Its rated current or thermal setting current lr must be at least equal to circuit operational current Ib:
The rated current of the busbar trunking must be at least equal to:
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Conductor metal
In according to installation method: horizontal, edgewise, vertical
Ambient temperature
Level of neutral protection
The application (lighting, motor, high density distribution, etc.)
When My Ecodial L has chosen a BTS, it retrieves all its characteristics via a table from the standard:
Thus, at the end of this BTS calculation, My Ecodial L has chosen the first busbar trunking complying with the overload requirement.
See also
BTS help contents
Checking overloads
Checking thermal stress and magnetic setting
Checking voltage drop requirements
Checking withstand to electrodynamic forces
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Cables Page 1 of 25
Cables
Input parameters
Cable cross-section calculation principle
Variables used to size a cable
Phase cable cross-section calculation method (IEC standard)
Phase cable cross-section calculation method (NFC standard)
Neutral cross-section calculation method
PE cross-section calculation method
Calculation of total coefficient k (IEC standard)
Calculation of total coefficient k (NFC standard)
Calculation of voltage drops
Calculation of minimum short-circuit currents and verification of thermal stress
Calculation of maximum short-circuit currents and verification of magnetic stress
Description Content
Cable laying method as per standard. Access to selection guide by double-clicking the
Installation method
data entry cell.
Conductor arrangement:
Trefoil
Conductor
arrangement Flat touching
Flat spaced (spacing > than 1 cable diameter)
This characteristic is used to set the linear reactance value (between 0.08 and 0.13).
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Thermal resistivity of Thermal resistivity of the ground. This characteristic is only visible for buried installation
the ground (Km/W) methods. The values proposed are those of the installation standard.
No. of additional
Number of additional touching circuits (not counting the circuit being calculated)
touching circuits
No. of trays Number of trays (IEC 60364, table A.52-20 and A.52-21)
Ambient temperature (°
Ambient temperature (°C)
C)
Line max. Delta U (%) Maximum voltage drop authorised for the circuit being calculated
Maximum voltage drop authorised during motor starting. This characteristic is only visible
Start-up U max. for cables upstream of a motor with a starting system other than a variable speed drive
(direct-on-line, star-delta, smooth).
Neutral conductor
Neutral conductor core metal (Copper - Aluminium)
metal
The user coefficient (user-defined K) is used to modify the k coefficient derived from the installation method
and the environment of the calculated circuit. This parameter can for example be used to oversize cable cross-
sectional area in order to allow for subsequent circuit extensions or an explosion hazard. In this case, the K will be set
at a value between 0.01 and 1. It will be multiplied by the coefficient derived from the installation method and the
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environment of the circuit considered, thus increasing the resulting cross-sectional area by the same amount. For more
details
Examples of use:
General behaviour
In automatic mode, My Ecodial L chooses the cross-section and the number of conductors according to an algorithm
which is optimum in most cases
In some cases, the user may wish to override one or more characteristics: the number of conductors by phase, the
type of metal or insulation, etc. My Ecodial L then changes to manual mode.
Always remember, when manual override values are set, My Ecodial L checks for conformity with indirect contact
protections rules (for the protection of persons) and checks the voltage drop. My Ecodial L chooses the protection
devices and sets them accordingly. This version of My Ecodial L does not optimise conductor size when the number
of conductors is imposed. For example, My Ecodial L cannot currently choose the best possible cable size when 2
cables per phase is imposed.
For this reason, when using manual mode, the user must ensure that his choice is optimum from the economic
viewpoint, while My Ecodial L takes charge of checking conformity with the safety rules.
This principle is the same for all other manual choice options.
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Network characteristics:
Operational current equal to the thermal setting of the upstream protection device
Upstream short-circuit current
Upstream network impedance
Voltage
Upstream network voltage drop
Earthing arrangement
Circuit polarity
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In general, it is advised to install the lowest number possible of cables in parallel. Parallel installation of a large
number of cables results in poor current distribution that can lead to abnormal temperature rise.
A correction factor, called the symmetry factor, for permissible currents is contained in the standards NFC 15 - 100 -
Ed 2003.
Symmetrical installation of cables as indicated below is the means to maintain the symmetry factor fs = 1.
Single-core cables
Delta arrangement
/=
Flat arrangement
/
Delta arrangement
Flat arrangement
When symmetry conditions are not observed or when there are three cables per phase, the symmetry factor drops
to 0.8.
Multi-core cables
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Only one multi-core cable per circuit. Symmetry conditions are considered met. The symmetry factor is equal to 1.
If there is more than one multi-core cable per circuit, symmetry conditions are considered impossible and the symmetry
factor drops to 0.8.
My Ecodial L is certified by UTE and therefore applies the rules in edition 2003 of standard NFC 15-100.
The following correction factors are taken into account:
f1 is the temperature correction factor (the reference T°C is 30°C for ambient conditions, 20°C for buried
cables)
f2 is the grouping factor, of which there are two types:
{ grouping of multi-core cables or circuits (table 52N in standard NFC 15-100)
{ grouping of conduits depending on the type of environment
{ table 52P for conduits in air
{ table 52Q for conduits in concrete
{ tables 52R and 52S for buried conduits
UTE C
Title NFC 15-100
15-105
52C, 52G,
Determining permissible currents depending on the installation method BC
52H, 52J
Permissible currents and overload protection for the B, C, E and F reference methods in
52H BD
the absence of correction factors
Correction factors for ambient temperatures other than 30°C 52K BF1
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Correction factors for soil temperatures other than 20°C 52L BF2
Correction factors for grouping of a number of circuits or multi-core cables 52N BG1
Correction factors depending on the number of conduits in air and the layout 52P BH
Correction factors depending on the number of conduits in concrete and the layout 52Q BJ
Correction factors for grouping of a number of cables installed directly in soil. Single-
52R BK1
core and multi-core cables installed horizontally or vertically
Correction factors for buried conduits, horizontal or vertical, with one cable or group of
52S BK2
three single-core cables per conduit
Correction factors for a number of circuits or cables in a single buried conduit 52T BK3
Correction factors for buried cables, depending on the soil thermal resistivity 53M BL
A54 A à
K factor values for calculation of conductor thermal constraints EA
A54F
See also
Help on cables
The cables are sized to satisfy a number of conditions that guarantee installation dependability. They must:
Carry the steady-state operational current and its normal transient peaks
Prevent generation of voltage drops that could interfere with the operation of certain loads, such as motors on
starting, and result in costly line losses.
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Voltage drop
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The standard stipulates a total voltage drop less than a given threshold (according to the circuit considered).
My Ecodial L nevertheless lets the user distribute voltage drop on each circuit by entering a maximum voltage
drop per circuit
In automatic calculation mode, My Ecodial L calculates the voltage drop on the circuit studied and compares it
to the maximum voltage drop stipulated by the user. If necessary, My Ecodial L will increase cable dimensions.
My Ecodial L calculates the voltage drop on start-up and compares it to the maximum voltage drop stipulated
by the standard. If necessary, My Ecodial L will increase cable size.
In manual calculation mode, My Ecodial L checks that the choices made by the user fully comply with the
standard.
Protection of persons and thermal stress limitations are calclated by the short-circuit current calculation.
Short-circuit current
When a short-circuit occurs, a strong current passes through the conductors bringing them to a high
temperature. The conductors and insulators must not be damaged before the protection device has time to
break this current. This is the thermal stress.
My Ecodial L calculates the maximum and minimum short-circuit currents and ensures compliance with
standard requirements.
For fuse protection, compliance with these requirements can lead to increased cable sizes.
The standard states that the thermal stress need not be checked when the cable is protected by a circuit-
breaker and the circuit-breaker is not time-delayed.
Checking
1. Determination of the current Idim to be taken into account for cable sizing:
Three possibilities:
- protective-device rated current or setting,
- design current if the circuit is not protected,
- rated current of the source for the cable located between the source and the incoming protective device
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where:
K3 = correction factor associated with the type of overload-protective device
Idim = current value used for conductor sizing
N = number of conductors in parallel
f = correction factor for wiring-system erection. more information
where:
e and K = coefficients used in the guide
Nth = the number of parallel conductors required to obtain a CSA less than the maximum permissible value
1. Determination of the current Idim to be taken into account for cable sizing:
Three possibilities:
- protective-device rated current or setting,
- design current if the circuit is not protected,
- nominal current of the source for the cable located between the source and the incoming protective device
where:
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where:
m and A = coefficients used in the standard
Nth = the number of parallel conductors required to obtain a CSA less than the maximum permissible value
The standard stipulates a total voltage drop less than a given threshold (according to the circuit considered).
My Ecodial L nevertheless lets the user distribute voltage drop on each circuit by entering a maximum voltage
drop per circuit
In automatic calculation mode, My Ecodial L calculates the voltage drop on the circuit studied and compares it
to the maximum voltage drop stipulated by the user. If necessary, My Ecodial L will increase cable size.
My Ecodial L calculates the voltage drop on start-up and compares it to the maximum voltage drop stipulated
by the standard. If necessary, My Ecodial L will increase cable size.
Warning: My Ecodial L proceeds by iteration, starting from the source. The cumulated
voltage drop is the sum of the voltage drops of each stage. This means that if the
cumulated voltage drop rises above the standard recommendations, My Ecodial L will
only increase cable cross-section of the last stage and will not modify the cables of the
previous stages, which is not always the best solution. In this case, you should change to
manual mode and increase the cross-section of the upstream cable.
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Glossary of variables:
R Phase linear resistance, taken from tables according to metal type, insulation type and conductor
cross-section.
Phase linear reactance, taken the tables according to the number of touching cables.
L Cable length.
IB Nominal current.
Uo Voltage.
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Glossary of variables:
R Phase resistance, according to metal type, insulation type and conductor cross-section.
L Cable length.
Uo Voltage.
Polarity Coefficient
3P + N 1
k
2P
1Ph 2
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For a TN arrangement, we check that Ph/Earth min lsc is greater than the circuit-breaker magnetic threshold.
Compliance with this requirement may lead to increased cable sizes or to the installation of a residual current
relay.
For a TT arrangement, a residual current device is placed at the head of the installation.
For an IT arrangement, on the first phase to earth fault, the fault current is not dangerous and does not trip the
protection device (tripping only occurs on the second fault). On the second fault, the short-circuit is phase to
phase. Thus the phase to earth fault short-circuit current is not used for cable sizing.
When a short-circuit occurs, a strong current passes through the conductors bringing them to a high
temperature. The conductors and insulation must not be damaged before the protection device has time to
break this current. This is the thermal stress limit.
My Ecodial L calculates the minimum short-circuit currents and ensures that the requirements of the standards
are complied with.
For fuse protection, compliance with these requirements can lead to increased cable sizes.
The standard states that the thermal stress need not be checked when the cable is protected by a circuit-
breaker.
Glossary of variables:
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If the circuit is a normal circuit, the Normal source values are used.
Xphamont
If the circuit is a replacement circuit, the Replacement source values are used.
If the circuit is supplied by a Normal and Replacement source, the values with the greatest
L Cable length.
Uo Voltage.
When a short-circuit occurs, a strong current passes through the conductors bringing them to a high
temperature. The conductors and insulation must not be damaged before the protection device has time to
break this current. This is the thermal stress limit.
My Ecodial L calculates the minimum short-circuit currents and ensures that the requirements of the standards
are complied with.
For fuse protection, compliance with these requirements can lead to increased cable sizes.
The standard states that the thermal stress need not be checked when the cable is protected by a circuit-
breaker.
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Glossary of variables:
If the circuit is a normal circuit, the Normal source values are used.
Xneamont
If the circuit is a replacement circuit, the Replacement source values are used.
If the circuit is supplied by a Normal and Replacement source, the values with the greatest
Neutral linear resistance taken from the tables depending on metal type, insulation type and conductor
Rone
cross-section.
Phase linear resistance taken from the tables depending on metal type, insulation type and conductor
Roph
cross-section.
X Phase linear reactance taken from the tables depending on number of touching cables.
L Cable length.
Uo Voltage.
When a short-circuit occurs, a strong current passes through the conductors bringing them to a high
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temperature. The conductors and insulation must not be damaged before the protection device has time to
break this current. This is the thermal stress limit.
My Ecodial L calculates the minimum short-circuit currents and ensures that the requirements of the standards
are complied with.
For fuse protection, compliance with these requirements can lead to increased cable sizes.
For a phase to earth fault, a touch voltage is created on the exposed conductive parts of the equipment.
Protection of people against indirect contacts defined in the standard stipulates that the faulty circuit must be
broken within a time depending on this touch voltage.
In the TN arrangement, we check that Ph/Earth min lsc is greater than the circuit-breaker magnetic threshold.
Compliance with this requirement may lead to increased cable sizes or to the installation of a residual current
relay.
In the TT arrangement, a residual current device is placed at the head of the installation.
Glossary of variables:
Normal / Replacement
Values with the greatest impedance
Earth linear resistance taken from the tables depending on metal type, insulation type and conductor
Rope
cross-section.
Phase linear resistance taken from the tables depending on metal type, insulation type and conductor
Roph
cross-section.
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X Phase linear reactance taken from the tables depending on number of touching cables.
IT without neutral
L Cable length.
Uo Voltage.
The maximum short-circuit currents are used to ensure that circuit-breaker breaking capacity is properly sized.
Three-phase maximum short-circuit current
Two-phase maximum short-circuit current
Single-phase maximum short-circuit current
Glossary of variables:
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RphLiais
Connection phase resistance:
RhoPh Phase resistance, depending on metal type, insulation type and conductor cross-section.
XphLiais
Connection phase reactance:
RneLiais
RhoNe Neutral resistance, depending on metal type, insulation type and conductor cross-section.
XneLiais
L Cable length.
Uo Voltage.
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Glossary of variables:
RphLiais
Connection phase resistance:
RhoPh Phase resistance, depending on metal type, insulation type and conductor cross-section.
XphLiais
L Cable length.
Uo Voltage.
Glossary of variables:
RphLiais
Connection phase resistance:
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RhoPh Phase resistance, depending on metal type, insulation type and conductor cross-section.
XphLiais
Connection phase reactance:
L Cable length.
Uo Voltage.
This coefficient k results from the influences of the installation method, circuit grouping and ambient temperature. It is
used to determine the fictitious current Iz’ that can flow in the conductor without danger ( Iz’ = Iz/k, where Iz is the
permissible current of the conductor).
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ktemp
where:
Tisolant maximum operating temperature for insulation: table 52F or 52L (70° if PVC, 90° if PRC)
reference temperature as per installation method: chapter 523.2 (20° for buried cables, 30° for cables
Treference
in air)
kdiv
Kame
For 3-phase applications, if the neutral conductor carries a current without any corresponding reduction in the load on
the phase conductors, the neutral must be taken into account when determining the number of live conductors. Such
currents may be due, for example, to the presence of high harmonic currents in 3-phase circuits. In this case, a
coefficient equal to 0.84 is applied (§524.2.4).
kcouche
Value taken from tables 52N, 52O, 52R, 52S, 52T of the standard.
kgroupe
based on the installation method, the arrangement of the cirucits and the spacing of the conduits, My Ecodial L looks
in the appropriate tables (52N, 52O, 52P, 52Q, 52R, 52S, 52T) of the standard for the reduction to be applied.
Ksymétrie
for an odd number of conductors (greater than 1), this coefficient is equal to 0.8. Otherwise it is 1 (§523.6).
krthsol
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kutil
This coefficient is used to take a special factor known by the user (e.g. explosion hazard, etc.) into account in the cable
cross-section calculation.
kprot
The 1999 version of standard NFC15-100 introduced a protection coefficient k3 specifically for gG fuses.
The coefficient depends on the rated current :
The 2003 version of standard NFC15 -100 modified the values of this coefficient :
This coefficient k results from the influences of the installation method, circuit grouping and ambient temperature. It is
used to determine the fictitious current Iz’ that can flow through the conductor without danger ( Iz’ = Iz/k, where Iz is
the permissible current of the conductor).
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ktemp
For cables in air, My Ecodial L applies the correction factor of table 52-D1 from the IEC364-5-523 depending on the
material and ambient temperature.
For buried cables, My Ecodial L applies the correction factor of table 52-D2 from the IEC364-5-523 depending on the
material and ambient temperature.
krthsol
kame
For 3-phase applications, if the neutral conductor carries a current without any corresponding reduction in the load on
the phase conductors, the neutral must be taken into account when determining the number of live conductors. Such
currents may be due, for example, to the presence of high harmonic currents in 3-phase circuits. In this case, a
coefficient equal to 0.84 is applied (table D.52-1).
kjointif
For groups of more than one circuit or more than one multi-core cable, My Ecodial L applies the correction factors of
table 52-E1.
For groups of more than one circuit with cables laid directly in the ground, My Ecodial L applies the correction factors
of table 52-E2.
For groups of more than one circuit with cables laid in ducts in the ground, My Ecodial L applies the correction factors
of table 52-E3.
For groups of more than one circuit with other installation methods, My Ecodial L applies the correction factors of table
52-E4 and table 52-E5.
kutil
This coefficient is used to take a special factor known by the user (e.g. explosion hazard, etc.) into account in the cable
cross-section calculation.
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kprot
This coefficient assumes the value of 1.21 for circuits protected by a fuse (otherwise it is equal to 1).
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Circuit-breakers
Input parameters
Limitations
My Ecodial L does not take temperature into account in calculations nor does it consider derating problems when circuit
breakers are exposed to temperatures greater than their reference temperature. Therefore, My Ecodial L does not apply any
temperature derating that may be required due to the mounting of a number of circuit breakers in a switchboard.
General
The circuit-breaker performs all the basic functions required in an electrical installation, namely:
disconnection
control
current interruption and emergency power off (possible via a release for remote tripping)
isolation for mechanical servicing
protection against:
{ overloads
{ short-circuits
{ insulation faults (depending on the earthing arrangement, a residual-current relay may be necessary)
{ voltage drops (via an undervoltage release)
This property makes it the basic device for all electrical distribution.
Fundamental characteristics of a circuit-breaker
Circuit-breaker limiting capacity
Choosing a circuit-breaker
Circuit-breaker parameters
Description Content
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Addit. prot. against direct This parameter is displayed only if the load is a power socket. It is used to take into account
contacts section 411.3.3 of installation standards IEC 60364 and NF C 15-100
Two Classes are available: A and AC, that can be associated with two types:
Thermal setting l (A) Setting of the thermal protection (according to the load to be protected)
Value of the maximum rating of the type of circuit-breaker chosen. Commonly referred to as
Nominal rating
the frame size.
Im setting Value of the setting on the front panel of the magnetic protection
Ir setting Value of the setting on the front panel of the thermal protection
I0 setting Value of the setting on the front panel of the thermal protection
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Electrical protection
Where:
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The maximum value of the uninterrupted current that can be withstood by a circuit-breaker equipped with a trip unit at an
ambient temperature specified by the manufacturer, complying with the specified temperature rise limits. For example, a
NS160N equipped with a TM-D125 trip unit has a rated current ln of 125 A.
When a circuit-breaker can be equipped with several trip units of different rated currents, the frame size corresponds to the
highest rated current of the trip units with which it may be equipped. For example, a NS250N can accommodate the trip units
TM-D32 (In = 32 A), TM-D160 (In = 160 A), TM-D200 (In = 200 A). The frame size is 250 A.
Except for Multi 9 circuit-breakers that are easily interchangeable, industrial circuit-breakers are equipped with removable trip
units. Moreover, to adapt the circuit-breaker to circuit characteristics and avoid oversizing the cables, the trip units are in turn
normally adjustable.
The current setting lr (or lrth) is the current used to determine the protection conditions provided by the circuit-breaker. It also
represents the maximum current that the circuit-breaker can withstand without tripping.
This value must be greater than the operational current lb and less than the permissible current in the conductors lz.
Thermal releases are normally adjustable from 0.7 to 1 x ln, whereas electronic releases generally offer a wider range
(commonly from 0.4 to 1 x In).
The role of a short-circuit release (magnetic or short time) is to ensure fast opening of the circuit-breaker for high overcurrents.
The breaking capacity is the highest short-circuit current (prospective current) that a circuit-breaker can break at a given voltage.
It is normally expressed in symmetrical kA RMS and is referred to by lcu (ultimate breaking capacity for industrial circuit-
breakers) and lcn (rated breaking capacity) for domestic or similar circuit-breakers .
Circuit-breaker polarity
The number of poles interrupted during tripping and the number of poles monitored by a thermal relay. For example, if circuit-
breaker polarity is 4P3D, 4 poles will be interrputed when the circuit-breaker is tripped, but only 3 are equipped with a thermal
relay, thus the neutral is not monitored. Consult the selection table for neutral conductor protection on page H1-37 of the
“Electrical Installation Guide”.
Limitation
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For more details, see page 13 of the" Low Voltage Expert Guide" no. 5
Advantages of limitation
Implementation of limiting circuit-breakers offers many advantages:
Enhanced network protection: limiting circuit-breakers greatly attenuate all the harmful effects of short-circuit currents on
an installation.
Reduction of thermal effects: less temperature rise in the conductors, thus increased service life for cables.
Reduction of mechanical effects: reduced electrodynamic repulsion forces, thus less risk of deformation or breakage,
particularly for the electrical contacts.
Reduction of electromagnetic effects: less disturbance to the measurement instruments placed near an electric circuit
These circuit-breakers thus help enhance the protection of cables, busbar trunking systems and electrical switchgear, thereby
slowing down installation ageing.
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Choosing a circuit-breaker
Either it must have a breaking capacity at least equal to the prospective short-circuit current at its installation point
Or, if this is not the case, it must be associated with another breaking device placed upstream having the necessary
breaking capacity. In the latter case, the characteristics of both devices must be coordinated so that the energy flowing
through the device placed upstream is not greater than the energy that the downstream device and the busbar trunking
protected by these devices can withstand without damage. This possibility is advantageously used in fuse/circuit-breaker
and circuit-breaker/circuit-breaker combinations known as cascading, which uses the high limiting capacity of circuit-
breakers.
My Ecodial L selects the most suitable circuit-breaker on the basis of a number of parameters covering the characteristics
defined in the first paragraph. This choice complies with the specifications of standard NF C 15-100.
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standard, My Ecodial L displays a warning message. In manual mode, My Ecodial L does not automatically modify the user’s
choices.
See also
thermal-magnetic circuit-breaker
electronic circuit-breaker
Cascading
Definition of cascading
Cascading uses the limiting capacity of a circuit-breaker to allow installation of a downstream circuit-breaker of lower
performance. The upstream circuit-breaker acts as a barrier for high short-circuit currents, allowing the use of a downstream
circuit-breaker with a breaking capacity that is far lower than the prospective short-circuit current.
Implementation conditions
Standard NF C 15-100 allows this type of association provided that the energy flowing through the upstream circuit-breaker is
not greater than the energy that can be withstood without damage by the downstream circuit-breaker(s) benefiting from the
cascading capacity of the upstream circuit-breaker.
The cascading possibilities are checked by laboratory tests, then supplied by the manufacturer.
Advantage of cascading
As the current is limited all along the circuits controlled by the limiting circuit-breaker, cascading concerns all the installed placed
downstream of this circuit-breaker.
It is thus not limited to two consecutive devices and can be applied even between circuit-breakers located in different
switchboards. The result is that installation of a single limiting circuit-breaker can lead to simplifications and major savings for the
entire downstream installation:
Simplification of downstream short-circuit current calculations, as these currents are extremely limited
Simplification of choice of device
Savings on these devices as short-circuit current limitation allows use of devices with lower performance and therefore
lower in cost.
Savings on enclosures as the devices with lower performance are generally smaller.
If you have chosen cascading in the general circuit characteristics, My Ecodial L will use cascading to reduce the size of the
downstream circuit-breakers as per standard NF C 15-100 and based on manufacturer data.
For more details on cascading, see page 17 of the "Low Voltage Expert Guide" no. 5.
Discrimination
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Principle
According to § 1.4 of standard IEC 60947-2:
Discrimination consists of ensuring co-ordination between the operating characteristics of serial-connected circuit-breakers so
that if a fault occurs downstream, only the circuit-breaker placed immediately upstream of the fault trips.
Discrimination techniques
Current discrimination
This type of discrimination is based on the current shift between the protection curves. It is total if the short-circuit current lscB
downstream of B is less than the magnetic tripping threshold lrmA. Otherwise it is partial.
Current discrimination is particularly used when the ratings of the upstream and downstream circuit-breakers are different.
Implemented with fast-acting circuit-breakers, it is often partial and its level is only IrmA.
Time discrimination
This type of discrimination is based on the time shift of the tripping curves and is determined graphically. It requires the addition
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of time delay units in the circuit-breaker tripping systems and circuit-breakers that are able to withstand the thermal and
electrodynamic effects of the current during the delay time.
If you have chosen discrimination in the general circuit characteristics, My Ecodial L will choose and set the various circuit-
breakers in the circuit to obtain discrimination.
CAUTION: use of circuit-breakers with delayed tripping means that My Ecodial L must check the
thermal requirement, in other words that the cable downstream of the delayed circuit-breaker can
withstand the energy flowing through it during this short delay.
For more details on discrimination, see page 19 of the "Low Voltage Expert Guide" no. 5.
Magnetic setting
When checking the protection function against direct and indirect contacts, My Ecodial L can automatically reduce the magnetic
setting to a value under the applicable fault current, depending on the earthing arrangement.
If that is not sufficient or if the magnetic setting is not adjustable, My Ecodial L increases the size of the conductors. In the
calculation results, an optimisation message requests that the magnetic setting be reduced or an RCD be installed.
Compact range
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It is possible to manually adjust the magnetic setting by modifying the corresponding field in the step-by-step calculation window
accessed via the Calculation menu (or F5). Caution, manual modifications of settings are not possible for certain trip units.
Multi 9 range
It is not possible to manually adjust the magnetic setting. This modular range of circuit breakers offers different tripping curves
identified by letters. The C curve is the most common and corresponds to a magnetic setting from 5-7 to 10 In.
My Ecodial L also includes a display module for tripping curves (More information).
See also
Input parameters
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Switch Page 1 of 1
Switch
Description Content
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Fuse-combination units
Parameters
General
General presentation
My Ecodial L proposes two types of protection under the fuse-combination unit heading: true fuse-combination units
and fuses alone. The choice is made using the Range input parameter.
As for circuit breakers, earth-leakage protection can be associated with these devices. However, given that fuse-
combination units cannot be controlled, an AC4 (or AC1 if associated with a motor) type contactor is also proposed.
fuse-combination units
fuse alone
My Ecodial L maintains the possibility of choosing a fuse without a fuse carrier, as was the case in My Ecodial L
versions prior to version 3.4. In this case the fuse is characterised by:
{ its rating
{ its breaking capacity
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Description Content
Contains the fuse-combination unit type. Two possible choices: disconnector or switch-
FCU type disconnector.
If the Diazed range is chosen or a fuse alone, this field contains: -
For ranges other than Diazed, there are 3 possible choices: DIN(NH), NFC, BS
Fuse type
If the Diazed range is chosen, there is only one possible choice: Diazed
(standard)
If the range chosen is a fuse alone, this field contains: -
FCU designation This field is empty if the Diazed range or a fuse alone is chosen
FCU rating (A) This field is not visible if the Diazed range or a fuse alone is chosen
Model of fuses used by the fuse-combination unit. Four choices are possible: gG, aM, gM,
Fuse model
Diazed
Rating of the fuse protecting the neutral. This field is not visible if the value is greater than that of
Rating of neutral
the fuses protecting the phases. This is the case when the third-order harmonics (included in the
fuse (A)
THDI characteristic associated with the cable component) is greater than 33%.
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Earth leakage
No
protection:
If the neutral is protected by a fuse (number of poles protected = 4P4f), the installation standard
Contactor
(§431.3) indicates that it cannot be interrupted before the phases. Given that fuse-combination
designation
units cannot be controlled, My Ecodial L proposes a type AC1 contactor.
Discrimination
Selection of devices implementing discrimination YES - NO
requested
Description Content
Earth leakage
YES
protection:
Integration with the Only a separate residual current device (RCD) can be associated with a fuse-combination
protective device unit. Therefore only one choice is possible: Separate
Two available classes: A and AC which can be associated with two types:
Earth-leakage
Designation of selected RCD
protection designation
Rating of type AC1 contactor. This characteristic is not displayed if the contactor is type
Contactor rating
AC4 (motor control)
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Circuit breakers Page 4 of 5
Automatic mode
In automatic calculation mode, My Ecodial L looks at the type of circuit to be protected. Fuse-combination units
protecting a motor are treated differently by My Ecodial L.
General case
To choose a fuse-combination unit, My Ecodial L takes into account two types of parameters:
1. Electrical parameters
Circuit voltage
Rated current and possibly the current flowing in the neutral (if the third-order harmonics exceed 33%)
The maximum short-circuit current at the point of connection
The type of network (single-phase or three-phase, with or without neutral)
Range
FCU type
Fuse type (standard)
Fuse model
Fuse size
No. of poles protected
If no solution is available, My Ecodial L expands its search, no longer taking into account the user-defined parameters
except for the Range and the Number of poles protected.
Motor protection
The search is carried out in two phases:
1. Search for the fuse that can be associated with the motor. It is based on two characteristics:
Model
Rating
2. Search for the fuse-combination unit capable of housing the fuse and satisfying the conditions indicated in the
general case.
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Circuit breakers Page 5 of 5
Manual mode
In manual calculation mode, My Ecodial L checks that the user's choice is compatible with the characteristics of the
network and the standard. If the choice is refused, an alert is displayed. In manual mode, My Ecodial L does not
automatically modify the user's choices.
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Protection - Conductor Page 1 of 3
Protection - Conductor
Description Content
Remarks
Circuit polarity is determined by the load:
Description Content
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Protection - Conductor Page 2 of 3
Remarks
Circuit polarity is determined by the load:
Coupler
Description Content
Downstream circuit
Circuit polarity: 3P+N – 3P – 2P – 1P - Upstream (= polarity of the upstream circuit)
polarity
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Protection - Conductor Page 3 of 3
Remarks
Circuit polarity is fixed by the load:
CAUTION
- The coupler component must not be used for any purposes other than coupling.
- The coupler component cannot be placed on the diagram like a cable or load protection
device.
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Loads Page 1 of 3
Loads
This component is used to represent loads other than motors (with or without variable speed drives), power sockets
and lighting. Once certain load characteristics have been entered, My Ecodial L can simulate the load during the
calculation.
Description Content
No. of identical
Number of identical circuits
circuits
Earthing
TT - IT - TN-C - TN-S - Upstream ( = upstream earthing arrangement)
arrangement
Ph/Earth fault
Maximum interruption time of a phase to earth fault: 5s - <5s
max break time
Remarks
Circuit polarity is determined by the load:
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Loads Page 2 of 3
1P Single-phase network
Operation
In an installation block diagram, it is important not to describe the installation in excessive detail as this could
complicate the representation.
The socket macro-component consists of a protection device, a cable and one or more power sockets. The user does
not enter the number of sockets.
My Ecodial L considers that the power sockets are parallel-connected. The user must thus enter the sum of the
currents for all the sockets.
Input parameters
Description Content
No. of identical
Number of identical circuits
circuits
Ib (A) Sum of the currents drawn by all the devices connected to the power sockets
Downstream
Circuit polarity 3P+N – 3P – 2P – 1P - Upstream ( = upstream circuit polarity)
circuit polarity
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Loads Page 3 of 3
Earthing
TT - IT - TN-C - TN-S - Upstream ( = upstream earthing system)
arrangement
My Ecodial L offers a variety of choices: Others, corresponding to general cases, and certain
Load type
special cases: Instrumentation/measurement –– Computing and Office Automation
A variety of choices are proposed: Others, corresponding to general cases, and certain special
Environment
cases.
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Lighting Page 1 of 3
Lighting
Input parameters
The ballast, which is a reactor, is necessary to limit the preheating current, produce the ignition voltage and
stabilise the current.
The presence of the ballast gives these lighting circuits a low power factor (around 0.6). If left uncorrected, this
would result in a high consumption of reactive energy, overloading the network and often penalties billed by the
utility.
For this reason, fluorescent tubes are mounted with an individual universal capacitor and are said to be
corrected. My Ecodial L only considers the case of corrected tubes.
The purpose of the ignition device (starter) is to generate an overvoltage used to switch on the tube.
Fluorescent tubes with HF ballast offer a number of advantages over conventional tubes: energy savings of around
25%, rapid, direct ignition, no stroboscopic or flicker effect.
The power Pn (W) indicated on a fluorescent tube does not include the power drawn by the ballast.
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Lighting Page 2 of 3
My Ecodial L proposes standard ballast power values according to the type of lamp (some types do not need ballast,
in which case My Ecodial L sets the ballast value to zero) and its power. My Ecodial L also proposes a standard
power factor. It is possible to change these values by clicking on the relevant box.
Disturbances
The ballast, the capacitor and the actual operation of the tube generate disturbances on switch-on:
For conventional fluorescent tubes, there is a moderate overload when the operating current is established (1.1
to 1.5 ln according to starter type for 1 s)
Tubes with electronic ballast may generate a current peak when switched on for the first time, as well as 30
kHz earth leakage currents due to the electronic components.
Furthermore, under steady state conditions, harmonic currents are present (sinusoidal currents with frequencies equal
to whole-number multiples of 50 Hz). The total harmonic current may reach 70 to 80% of the nominal load current of
the phases. It is therefore important to provide a neutral cross-section equal to the phase cross-section, which is
exactly what My Ecodial L does.
Discharge lamps
These are:
These lamps use the principle of electrical discharge in an impervious enclosure filled with gas or vapour from a metal
component, at a specific pressure.
Moreover, these lamps have long ignition times during which they consume a current la greater than their nominal
current ln. My Ecodial L provides the power, nominal current and start-up current for the various types of lamps.
See also
Lighting distribution by BTSs
Description Content
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Lighting Page 3 of 3
Type of lamp.
Light source Fluo tube – Lighting with electronic ballast – Fluocompact - HP fluo – LP sodium –
HP sodium – Metal iodide – Incandescent - Halogen
Downstream circuit Polarity of circuit supplying the lighting line: 3Ph+N – 3Ph – 2Ph – 1Ph - Upstream
polarity (identical to upstream circuit)
When the "Light source" input field us double-clicked and a light source is selected along with its power, My Ecodial L
proposes typical values for the power factor and ballast power. These values can be modified manually if required.
Special case for lighting fixtures (luminaires) connected to a strip lighting type BTS:
The strip lighting application is used only with the Protection - Conductor - Conductor - Lighting circuit, in which the first
conductor is a cable and the second a BTS. In this case, the following constraints apply to the lighting:
only one type of luminaire is authorised: 58 W fluorescent tube with compensated inductive ballast
number of lamps per luminaire = 2
Number of luminaires authorised: 1 every 1.55 m
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Motors Page 1 of 7
Motors
Limitations
My Ecodial L only treats three-phase asynchronous motors. This means therefore that DC motors, synchronous
motors and single-phase asynchronous motors are not dealt with.
Furthermore, the software is limited to a three-phase polarity without neutral and thus cannot deal with single-phase,
two-phase or four-phase (three-phase with neutral) polarities. However, most motors are supplied with three-phase
power and are balanced, which means that the neutral is not used. There are some very rare cases, not treated by My
Ecodial L, in which the neutral is useful for a three-phase motor (when the motor control circuit uses the phase to
neutral voltage, in which case the neutral is distributed).
My Ecodial L does not treat the TN-C or IT with neutral arrangement and thus stipulates TN-S if the user requests a
TN-C arrangement and IT without neutral if the user requests an IT with neutral arrangement. Once again, as most
motors operate on three phases and without a neutral, it is economical to convert a TN-C into a TN-S arrangement
when the neutral is not distributed.
Description Content
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Motors Page 2 of 7
No. of identical
Number of identical circuits
circuits
Motor power
Rated mechanical power output of motor in kW
output(kW)
Rated current drawn by the motor. This value is not calculated; it comes from the data base. The
Ib (A) user has the possibility of modifying the value using the advanced parameters of the selection
guide.
Motor on-load Rated cos phi of motor on load. Value given as a general indication and that can be modified
power factor using the advanced parameters of the selection guide.
Ratio of mechanical power output to electrical power drawn. Value given as a general indication
Motor efficiency
and that can be modified using the advanced parameters of the selection guide.
Start-up type Motor starting mode Direct on-line – Star Delta - Soft - Variable speed drive for more details
Coordination
Type of coordination of switchgear and controlgear {Type1 - Type2 - Total}for more details
type
The class of the switchgear and controlgear is taken into account in the selection of
Tripping class components.
Possible values: 5,10A (similar to 5), 10, 15, 20, 25, 30
Circuit polarity My Ecodial L only deals with three-phase motors with no neutral (imposed)
Ratio of the starting current to the nominal current of the motor under steady state operating
Istart/In
conditions.
Ratio of the subtransient current generated by the motor when starting to the nominal current.
This information indicates whether the motor is of the classic or high-efficiency type, which
Id"/In influences the selection of the protection device. Two possible choices:
<= 19: classic motor
> 19: high-efficiency motor
All these parameters (with the exception of the number of identical circuits, the system earthing arrangement and the polarity)
can be modified via a setting window opened by double-clicking or by clicking on the button in the entry zone. This window
presents all the information required for the motor feeder settings classed per component. Among this information, two items
are not included in the grid and are therefore not defined above:
Designation Contents
Manual : the motor is started by the circuit breaker that is used as a control device
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Motors Page 3 of 7
Automatic: the motor is started remotely; the control device is either a contactor or a circuit
Motor control
breaker
This zone is used to define how the three motor feeder functions are integrated. Three
possibilities:
1 product: the three functions are integrated in a single device (Tesys Model U, Integral)
2 products: the three functions are integrated in two products that depend on the type of motor
Motor feeder control:
architecture Automatic control: the thermal relay is included in the circuit breaker (examples: Tesys Model
U, Integral, GV2ME, GV7, NS100L STR22ME, NS400L STR43ME, NS800N Micrologic, P25M)
Manual control: the thermal relay is external with respect to the GV (examples: GV2, GV3)
3 products: the three functions are provided by three separate products (examples: all
fusegear, GV2L, NS800N Micrologic): circuit breaker or fuse + thermal relay + contactor
The values entered above are not all independent. Thus, if you change one of them you
may well change the values of other characteristics.
See also
Motor help
When a motor is energised, the current inrush is high and may, particularly if the supply line cross-section is
insufficient, result in a voltage drop that could affect load operation. There are several types of starters used to reduce
peak currents on starting.
My Ecodial L proposes 3 types of starter:
Possible only with a squirrel-cage motor. This is the simplest starting mode in which the motor stator is directly coupled
to the network.
Starting current = 5 to 8 times rated current
This type of starter is simple, gives the motor a high starting torque and allows rapid starting, but is not suitable in all
cases. The motor power must be low compared to the network power to limit disturbances on the network, the machine
must not require gradual starting and it must contain a mechanical device to prevent excessively abrupt starting. If
there is a danger for users, this type of starter must be not be used and a system to reduce inrush current or starting
torque must be implemented. The system most commonly used is to start the motor at a reduced voltage. See
diagram.
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Motors Page 4 of 7
In this case, both ends of each of the three stator windings of the motor must be run to the terminal plate. The principle
consists of starting the motor by star-connecting the windings at the mains voltage, thereby decreasing the peak
current by a factor of 3. See diagram.
Starting current = 1.5 to 2.6 In
Then, when motor speed has stabilised, the windings are delta-connected. This type of starting is ideal for machines
with a low load torque or that start off-load.
However, for this type of starting, the contactors must have higher ratings than direct starting contactors as they
operate during the starting phase and thus at currents greater than the nominal current.
The motor is started with a gradually increasing supply voltage, thus allowing smooth starting and reducing the peak
current. This type of starter controls the operating characteristics, particularly during the starting and stopping phases,
provides thermal protection of the motor and starter and mechanical protection of the driven machine. The inrush
current can be set from 2 to 5 ln. This system can be used to start all asynchronous. In addition to controlled starting, it
allows gradual deceleration and braked stopping.
My Ecodial L also proposes starting with a variable speed drive, in the Protection-Cable-Variable speed drive-Cable-
Motor component. Consult the variable speed drive online help for this component for further details.
See also
Motor help
Equations
The following equation is applicable:
Where:
motor efficiency
In general, a motor manufacturer indicates in the power column of tables the mechanical power of the motor. Other
parameters include:
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Motors Page 5 of 7
Where:
I current drawn
motor efficiency
This means that the electrical power effectively drawn is greater than the mechanical power indicated in manufacturer
catalogues.
Note that though it is not possible to modify the efficiency and power-factor parameters in
the selection guide, it is possible in the window for step-by-step calculation.
See also
Motor input parameters
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Motors Page 6 of 7
Level-1 parameters
Parameter Value
Circuit-breaker protection: tripping curve of the circuit breaker or type of trip unit
Trip unit / curve
FCU protection fuse model
Earth-leakage
Yes or no
protection
Thermal setting I (A) Value set for the thermal protection (according to protected load)
Maximum rating for the selected type of circuit breaker, often simply called the frame size
Frame rating
or frame rating.
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Motors Page 7 of 7
Discrimination
Verification of discrimination - Yes or No
requested
See also
Return to help on motors
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Variable speed drives Page 1 of 5
Description Content
Length Length of cable between the circuit-breaker and the variable speed drive
Circuit polarity The polarity of the variable speed drive which can be 3-Ph ou 1-Ph.
TT - IT without neutral - TN-S - Upstream (=upstream earthing arrangement, except if it is TN-C or IT with neutral, in which case My
Earthing arrangement
Ecodial L imposes a TN-S or IT without neutral, respectively)
Standard torque: the over-torque and the associated overcurrent are limited by the variable speed drive to a typical value of 1.2 to 1 x the nominal current of the variable
speed drive for 60 s. This choice optimises the variable speed drive with respect to applications that do not require a high transient torque: centrifugal pumps, fans,
conveyors.
High torque: the over-torque and the associated overcurrent are limited by the variable speed drive to a typical value of 1.5 to 1.7 times the nominal current of the variable
speed drive for 60 s. This choice allows selection of a variable speed drive adapted to applications requiring a high transient over-torque: handling equipment, crushing
mills, pumps with high starting torque.
VSD power drawn (kW) Nominal power of the variable speed drive
Maximum deliverable
Output current of the variable speed drive under steady state conditions (A)
nominal current (A)
Maximum transient current This is the maximum current in amps that a variable speed drive can supply for 60 seconds per 10 minute period. The current is
for 60s / 10 min automatically limited to this value by the drive. If the thermal capacity is exceeded, the drive is automatically protected by a thermal fault
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Variable speed drives Page 2 of 5
lockout function.
TT - IT without neutral - TN-S - Upstream (=upstream earthing arrangement, except if it is TN-C or IT with neutral, in which case My
Earthing arrangement
Ecodial L imposes a TN-S or IT without neutral, respectively)
Line inductor Presence of a line inductor upstream of the variable speed drive
Value of the short-circuit current that the variable speed drive can withstand without a line inductor upstream. If a line inductor is present
Permissible line Isc(kA)
upstream, this value is meaningless and is not displayed.
IP Degree of protection
My Ecodial L is used to size a motor feeder circuit containing a variable speed drive for standard asynchronous motor.
The variable speed drives of the ALTIVAR, ATV38E, ATV 58E and ATV68E ranges are particularly well suited to the requirements of installations, building equipment and
infrastructures.
This ready-to-use solution comes in a wall mounted or floor standing enclosure, incorporating the standard features for these installations:
Harmonic compensation
Compliance with EMC standards and recommendations
Energy savings
PI controller incorporated for flow rate or temperature regulation
Remote control
The calculations made are also valid for the standard ranges, provided the catalogue reactor is used with them.
See also
Sizing a circuit for a motor with a variable speed drive
FAQ concerning variable speed drives
Motor help
A frequency converter is a device used to make the speed of a standard asynchronous motor vary by varying the frequency of the voltages and currents applied to the
motor.
Thanks to power electronics, this principle is used in variable speed drives and is suitable for applications in which the need to control the motion of an object or a fluid is
essential.
The principle is to convert the distributed utility AC power at 50 or 60 Hz into DC power by means of a rectifier assembly and then convert this DC voltage into AC
frequency and voltage components, variable thanks to an inverter.
Speed regulation and torque regulation are used to control the speed according to the needs and on-load variations of the motor.
This regulation is performed without need for a sensor on the motor: a standard asynchronous motor is used.
Numerical control performed using increasingly high-performance micro-controllers incorporates algorithms of the “vector flow control without sensor” type.
Upstream of the converter, current is in phase with voltage and thus the power factor of the assembly is equal to 1.
Note that the power drawn will also depend on the motor rotation speed, given that P=Cw where P is mechanical power, C torque and w the motor shaft speed
Furthermore, given that the input stage is not linear, the converter, although corrected, generates 5th, 7th and 11th order harmonics, etc. The effect is characterised by the
form factor.
Some applications require an over-torque during transients, accelerations and decelerations. In this case, a high-torque variable speed drive must be used.
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Variable speed drives Page 3 of 5
For other applications such as centrifugal pumps and fans for example, a standard torque variable speed drive is sufficient.
The thermal protection of the motor is provided by the variable speed drive.
The variable speed drive permanently calculates the thermal state of the motor according to the current drawn and the efficiency of motor ventilation that depends on
speed.
The setting parameter for this protection is lth and must be set to the value of the continuous output current.
The variable speed drive includes a phase to phase and phase to earth short-circuit protection device.
This protection device is designed to protect the variable speed drive against destruction in the event of an accidental short-circuit. However, its very high speed means it
also protects the downstream installation.
This guarantees a very high degree of availability of the installation as it is sufficient to eliminate the fault to restart the installation.
In this case, protection is provided by the distribution circuit-breaker in the event of an accidental short-circuit.
Return to variable speed drive help
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Variable speed drives Page 4 of 5
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Variable speed drives Page 5 of 5
See also
Variable speed drives help
By instantaneous limiting of the rms current to approximately 1.5 times the rated current.
By continuously calculating I²t, taking into account the speed (because most motors are self ventilated, i.e. cooling is less effective at low speeds).
My Ecodial L takes into account only the situation where for a given feeder, there is one variable-speed drive and one motor. In this case, the motor overload protection of
the drive simultaneously provides overload protection for the devices and the cables.
If a phase-to-phase short-circuit occurs at the drive output (or across the motor terminals or at any point on the line between the drive and the motor), the overcurrent is
detected in the drive and a locking order is issued very quickly. The short-circuit current is interrupted in a few microseconds, thus protecting the drive. This very short
current is essentially supplied by the filtering capacitor for the rectifier and is thus produces no effect on the supply line.
In the event of a fault, these built-in protection functions provoke drive locking and the motor turns to a stop. The break in supply is ensured by the line contactor which is
opened by a relay in the drive.
See also
Variable-speed drives - Sizing a circuit for a motor with a variable speed drive
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LV –LV transformers Page 1 of 3
LV – LV transformers
Input parameters
My Ecodial L incorporates the power sum of the loads downstream of the LV/LV transformer.
Functions
These transformers, with power ratings from a few hundred VA to a few hundred kVA, are often used to:
Change voltage: in auxiliary control and monitoring circuits, in lighting circuits (to obtain 230 V when the
neutral is not distributed).
Change the earthing arrangement of some loads with high leakage currents or minimum insulation
(computers, electric furnaces, heating tools, equipment in industrial kitchens, etc.). Isolation transformers can
also be used in zones requiring high energy availability or where there is an explosion risk. They are
extensively used to supply operating rooms in hospitals: continuity of supply is vital and the nitrogen monoxide
used in these rooms is explosive.
They normally come with the essential internal protection devices (consult the supplier). An overcurrent protection
device must be provided at the primary. Their implementation requires knowledge of their specific operating
characteristics.
The protection device placed on a feeder supplying an LV – LV transformer must not be subject to nuisance tripping
when the transformer is energised. Consequently the following are used:
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LV –LV transformers Page 2 of 3
The primary is sometimes protected using aM type fuses. This solution has two
drawbacks: the fuses must be very highly overrated (at least 4 times transformer nominal
current) and to perform the control and isolation functions at the primary, they must be
combined with a switch or contactor which must also be very highly overrated.
Caution: in the input field, the sign indicates that My Ecodial L will look for values in its
LV/LV transformer database.
Description Content
LV/LV transformer
My Ecodial L proposes three-phase or single-phase transformers.
polarity
Transformer nominal
Transformer power in kVA. Choose from the list proposed
power (KVA)
Secondary Ph-Ph V (V) Phase to phase nominal voltage at the secondary of the LV/LV transformer
Downstream circuit
3Ph+N – 3Ph – 2Ph – 1Ph - Upstream
polarity
LV/LV transformer
Allows for transformer derating. My Ecodial L does not handle values greater than 40°C.
ambient temperature (°
If necessary, contact your Schneider Electric representative.
C)
Reminder of the connection designation for the transformer chosen. Also visible in the
Connection
choice guide.
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LV –LV transformers Page 3 of 3
Reminder of the value of the LV/LV transformer inrush current peak. Value read in the
Inrush current (x In) LV/LV transformer database and used for calculation. This field cannot therefore be
modified. Also visible in the choice guide.
Neutral electrode Value of the neutral electrode resistance in Ohm (any value). Displayed depending on
resistance Rs (Ohm) the earthing system.
Earth electrode Value of the earth electrode resistance in Ohm (any value). Displayed depending on the
resistance (Ohm) earthing system.
See also
LV-LV transformer help
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Type 1 and type 2 coordination Page 1 of 2
Power sum
General presentation
Objectives
Method
The power sum is in fact a current sum. It is the algebraic sum of the currents and the apparent powers that is carried
out, covering each piece of equipment right up to the source. This method is approximate compared to a sum of the
active an reactive powers, or a load flow calculation, however it has an advantage in that it oversizes the installation. In
this type of calculation, accuracy is not of critical importance given the application of highly approximate correction
factors (Ks and Ku).
the use factor expresses the proportion of time that a load is in operation. It is used to determine the current
flowing in the upstream circuits and to size the source. It is however not taken into account for the selection of
circuit protection devices.
the load factor expresses the proportion of full rated load at which the load operates. This factor is not used in
My Ecodial L but it is always possible to indicate the estimated value of the load current or power rather than
the full rated load current or power.
the diversity factor expresses the level of use of the installation, in particular for motors and power sockets. It
therefore requires detailed knowledge of the installation in question. It is used to select the busbar assembly or
BTS to which it is assigned, to determine the current flowing in the upstream circuits and to size the source.
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Type 1 and type 2 coordination Page 2 of 2
this factor takes into account the predicted evolution of the installation. It does not exist in My Ecodial L.
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My Ecodial L Certification Page 1 of 13
My Ecodial L Certification
Calculation standards
My Ecodial L 3 complies in all aspects with the European CENELEC R064-003 report, used in France in drafting the UTE C 15-500 guide.
This report serves as the reference document in sizing many components in electrical installations. My Ecodial L respects all applicable rules in calculating the sizes of
conductors and in selecting the suitable protection devices, whatever the type of conductor or protection device.
Field of application
My Ecodial L 3 may be used exclusively for low-voltage installations where the circuits are made up of insulated conductors, cables or busbar trunking systems.
My Ecodial L 3 takes into account all the parameters required to meet the installation standard, the main parameters being:
My Ecodial L certification
The parameters in the UTE C15-500 guide are specifically designed to enable checks on calculation software for insulated conductors, cables and the selection
characteristics for busbar trunking systems.
My Ecodial L 3.35 passed the certification tests organised by UTE, an independent certification organisation.
The certification number is 15L-602A / 15L-602 (click the number to display a copy of the UTE certifications, Acrobat reader is required).
UTE has successively published two guides, UTE C 15-500 and UTE C 15-105
Guide UTE C 15-500 is intended to serve as a basis for writing software. It provides complete equations and in-depth information on calculations. The guide for
2003 changed names and became "Détermination des sections des conducteurs et choix des dispositifs de protection à l'aide de logiciel de calcul" (Determining
conductor sizes and selection of protection devices using calculation software).
Guide UTE C 15-105 provides one very rigorous method and two rough calculation methods.
{ The two rough calculation methods are:
{ the composition method
{ the conventional method.
{ The rigorous method calculates the impedances.
"Application of guide UTE C 15-500 produces results that differ from those obtained using the methods in guide UTE C 15-105. These differences in the calculation
results between the old and new software do not mean that installations calculated using the old rules are not satisfactory. Though guide UTE C 15-500 takes into
account certain parameters more accurately, others remain highly arbitrary, such as the factor c, or equiavalent, such as the resistance of connections, the impedance
of switchgear, arc impedances in maximum short-circuits, the real length of circuits, etc." J3E Review, August/September 2003.
See also
Correction factors in NFC 15-100, edition 2003
Earthing arrangements
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Diagram A1
Definition:
Contacts between people and accidentally energised exposed conductive parts (insulation fault).
Effect:
Protection:
The installation standards (IEC 364, NF C 15-100, etc.) define three earthing arrangements, TN, IT and TT, and the relevant installation and protection rules.
Earthing arrangements
The 1st letter describes neutral earthing
The 2nd letter describes exposed conductive part earthing
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Diagram A2
Diagram A3
A "phase to earth" insulation fault causes a high fault current (only limited by Zph-PE)
A short-circuit protection device (SCPD) must then be used to de-energise the circuit:
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Diagram A4
First insulation fault. No risk If » 0 A
Second insulation fault: If = 0.8 U0 / 2(Rph + RPE)
High "phase to phase" or "phase to neutral" fault current (only limited by Zph-PE and Zn - PE)
A SCPD must then be used to de-energise the circuit:
Circuit-breaker: Im < If
Fuse: Elimination of lf within a time shorter than that given by the safety curves
Use of a residual current device
Diagram A5
A "phase to earth" insulation fault causes a weak fault current (extremely limited by the earth resistances Rb and Ra)
The fault resembles an overload, but the circuit-breaker’s thermal protection tripping time is too long (a few seconds):
If = U0 /(Ra + Rb)
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Criteria TT TN IT
Economic solution
Continuity of supply
Safety of persons
XML export
My Ecodial L now offers a new export format, XML, accessible via the File menu.
This command can be used to export:
Schneider Electric has joined forces with its partner Algotech Informatique to ensure that this information can be used to automatically
generate an electrical diagram that is much more useful when the designer transmits the file to the installers. Automation saves
considerable time when preparing the file. What is more, certain diagrams are pre-formatted, thus ensuring additional time savings.
Information infos@algotech.fr
My Ecodial L project
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You can also reverse the positions of the transformers or generators with any source in the diagram, or reverse the normal and replacement roles.
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In this last diagram, the role of the normal or replacement source can be reversed. Moreover, you can place up to 4 generators and 4 transformers.
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Refused networks
2 parallel-connected branches with a circuit between the main LV board and the source circuit.
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See also
Generator help
Transformer help
Any source help
BTS help
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Harmonic distortion (current) Page 1 of 4
Definition
Standard NFC15-100 introduces the notion of THDI, i.e. Total Harmonic Distortion of Current.
In a three-phase system with a neutral, the odd multiples of the third-order harmonic H3 (H3, H9, H15, etc.) do not
cancel each other out in the neutral. There is therefore a flow of current in the neutral greater than that in the phases.
Depending on the level of harmonic distortion, it may be necessary to modify the size of the neutral conductors.
This stipulation replaces the notion of the loaded neutral in the previous versions of the standard.
For current harmonics, harmonic distortion is calculated using the equation below.
THDI measurement
The THDI characterises the deformation of the current wave. The disturbing device is located by measuring the THDI
on the incomer and each outgoer of all the various circuits in order to detect the source of the problem.
A value under 15% is considered normal. Malfunctions are not a risk. The neutral conductor is not
considered loaded.
A value between 15% and 33% signals significant harmonic pollution. There is a risk of temperature
rise, which requires oversizing of the cables and sources. The neutral conductor is considered
loaded.
A value above 33% reveals major harmonic pollution. Malfunctions are probable. An in-depth
analysis and the use of special protection devices are required or, in some cases, harmonic-
attenuation systems may be the best solution.
See also
Summary of NFC15-100 rules for calculation of the neutral
Origin of harmonics
Cable input parameters
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Harmonic distortion (current) Page 2 of 4
Origin of harmonics
Harmonics are created by non-linear loads that draw current in the form of impulses and not a sinusoidal wave. Non-
linear loads come from rectifier-type and diode-bridge power supplies or from the ballast of fluorescent lamps.
A load is said to be non-linear when the current drawn does not have the same waveform as the supply
voltage.
Typical examples are loads comprising power electronics. They are increasingly numerous in low-voltage
networks, not only in office buildings, but in industry as well.
Examples are:
{ industrial equipment (welding machines, arc furnaces, induction furnaces, rectifiers, etc.)
{ variable-speed drives for asynchronous motors
{ office machines (computers, photocopy machines, etc.)
{ household appliances
{ UPSs
Voir aussi
Cable input parameters
Definition of harmonic distortion of current (THDI)
Single-phase circuits Sneutral <= Sphase Sneutral <= Sphase Sneutral = Sphase
Three-phase circuits +
neutral Sneutral = Sphase
Sneutral decisive
Sneutral = Sphase
Multicore cables Sneutral = Sphase Ibneutral=1.45 x
Factor 0.84
Sphase <= Ibphase
{ 16 mm² Cu or
Factor 0.84
{ 25 mm² Al
Three-phase circuits +
neutral Sneutral = Sphase
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Harmonic distortion (current) Page 3 of 4
Three-phase circuits +
neutral Sneutral > Sphase
Sneutral = Sphase/2 is Sneutral decisive
Sneutral = Sphase
Single-core cables permissible
Ibneutral=1.45 x
Factor 0.84
Sphase > Neutral protected Ibphase
{ 16 mm² Cu or
Factor 0.84
{ 25 mm² Al
IEC 60364
Three-phase circuits
+ neutral Sneutral = Sphase
Sneutral = Sneutral = Sphase
Sneutral = Sneutral decisive
Multicore cables Sphase Sneutral decisive
Sphase Ibneutral=3xTHDIxIbphase
Sphase<= Factor 0.86 Ibneutral=3xTHDIxIbphase
{ 16mm² Cu or Factor 0.86
{ 25mm² Al
Three-phase circuits
+ neutral Sneutral = Sphase
Sneutral = Sneutral = Sneutral = Sphase
Sneutral decisive
Multicore cables Sphase/2 admis Sphase Sneutral decisive
Ibneutral=3xTHDIxIbphase
Sphase > Protected neutral Factor 0.86 Ibneutral=3xTHDIxIbphase
{ 16mm² Cu or Factor 0.86
{ 25mm² Al
Three-phase circuits
+ neutral
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Harmonic distortion (current) Page 4 of 4
The size of the neutral conductor must be equal to that of each phase (taking into account the factor of 0.84).
The neutral conductor must be protected against overcurrents and be interrupted.
In the absence of the necessary information, this rule must be strictly applied.
See also
Origin of harmonics
Cable input parameters
Harmonic distortion of current
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Curve direct - Display of tripping curves Page 1 of 8
Click the button in My Ecodial L to launch the independent Curve Direct module.
This module displays all the devices upstream of the device selected in the diagram.
Procedure
It is also possible to select in the circuit-breaker database the devices for which you wish
to see the tripping curves (More information).
See also
Input parameters
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Select a device
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Delete a device
Click the button to display the list of devices for which the tripping curves are displayed.
It is then possible to delete a device.
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Click the button to close the window and the Curve Direct module.
Caution
When Curve Direct is used independently, no data is saved and no message requests
confirmation of closing. Check that all data has been printed before closing the module.
When Curve Direct is launched from My Ecodial L, the program asks if you wish to save
any modifications made using Curve Direct.
If you decide to save any modifications, My Ecodial L saves the settings and shifts to
manual mode. When the installation is recalculated, My Ecodial L will check that the
modifications are compatible with all rules and standards on protection against direct and
indirect contacts.
If you decide not to save the modifications made using Curve Direct, no changes are
made in My Ecodial L. The modifications made using Curve Direct are lost.
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If you exit Curve Direct by clicking the Close button , the program does not
request confirmation before closing and any modifications made using Curve Direct are
not saved.
See also
Display of tripping curves
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