Glossary of Medium Voltage Switchgear Terms

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1/25/2012

MCset 6kV medium voltage switchgear with SF6 circuit breakers (Schneider Electric)

This glossary was published originally by Schneider Electric and it is intended to cover the meaning of many
common words and phrases used in association with medium voltage switchgear. Many terms will also be
applicable to low voltage switchgear as well.

Glossary
A B C D E F G H I K L M N O P Q R S TU V W Z

A
Air Blast Circuit Breaker
A circuit breaker using compressed air to force the extinction of the arc through an arc-chute system. An obsolete
technology. See also Circuit Breaker. Index A

Air Magnetic Circuit Breaker

A circuit breaker that uses air as its insulating medium, and an arc-chute system for dissipating the arc, a method of
generating a magnetic field which forces the arc into the arc chute, and with possible assistance from a air puffer
system to blow the arc into the arc chutes. An obsolete technology. See also Circuit Breaker. Index A

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ANSI Device Function Numbers

Defined in ANSI standard C37.2, the Device Function Numbers are a world-wide standardized system for
describing the function of many protection and control components within switchgear.
They are commonly used to describe the type of protection applied to a circuit. For example, the most common
form of protection is overcurrent, usually designated as 50/51. This designation actually covers two types of
overcurrent protection, 50 which is instantaneous protection, and 51 which is a time overcurrent protection.
Various suffixes can be used, which are sometimes context sensitive. For example, 87 represents differential
protection in general, while 87T is specifically transformer differential protection and 87G is specifically generator
differential protection. However, 50G refers to instantaneous overcurrent protection on the ground circuit (in this
case the G refers to ground, not generator). Refer to the ANSI standard for a full explanation. Index A

ANSI Standards
The American National Standards Institute control the National Standards of the United States. These standards
are of course used in the US and some are used by certain other countries as well, including Canada. The
electrical engineering standards of ANSI are often written for them by IEEE, the Institute of Electrical and
Electronics Engineers. Index A

ANSI Switchgear
Not a definitive term, but used to generally describe switchgear built in accordance with ANSI standards, as
opposed to IEC standards (IEC Switchgear). Index A

Anti-single Phase Tripping Device

A device that operates to open all phases of a circuit by means of a polyphase switching device, in response to the
interruption of the current in one phase. For example, the striker pin of an expulsion fuse can be used to actuate a
common tripping bar which causes a three phase load break switch to open. Index A

Anti-pumping Relay
Anti pumping relay is device used in association with a circuit breaker to prevent the circuit breaker from
reclosing after an opening operation, as long as the device initiating the reclosing is maintained in the position for
closing. For example, as long as the opening coil is energized, then any attempt to close the circuit breaker will not
work. Index A

Arc-chute
A structure used as part of a current interrupting device, affording a confined space or passage, lined with arcresisting material, through which an arc is directed in order to cause it to extinguish.
In medium voltage switchgear, this was the main current interrupting means in the air-magnetic type of circuit
breakers, but the same concept does not exist in vacuum or SF6 designs. Arc-chutes are common in low voltage
circuit breakers. Index A

Arc-resistant Switchgear
A type of switchgear design which is designed to withstand the effects of an internal arcing fault, without causing
harm to personnel who are located in defined areas. It is not intended to withstand these internal arcing fault
without possibly causing physical damage to the structure and/or components, but often the physical damage is
less with an arc-resistant design.
There are three classes of protection:

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Type A eliminates the emission of gases and particles from the front of the switchgear during an internal
arcing fault,
Type B eliminates the emission of gases and particles from the front and sides of the switchgear during an
internal arcing fault,
Type C eliminates the emission of gases and particles from the front and sides of the switchgear, from
between compartments within the same cell, and between adjacent cells during an internal arcing fault.
Arc-resistant switchgear has traditionally been metal-clad, but the basic concept could also be applied to other
types of switchgear as well. See also Proof, Resistant. Index A

Arc-proof Switchgear
An incorrect term. Please refer to Arc-resistant Switchgear, Proof, Resistant. Index A

Arcing Contacts
The contacts of a switching device upon which the arc is deliberately drawn after the main contacts have parted.
See also Main Contacts. Index A

Arcing Time
The amount of time between the first initiation of the arc and the instant of final arc extinction in all phases. See
also Opening Time, Closing Time. Index A

Asymmetrical Current
The current which appears in a circuit during fault conditions, composed of the total of the AC component of the
fault current and the DC offset component. Index A

Auxiliary Circuits
All the control, indicating and measuring circuits in the switchgear. When speaking of the circuit breaker, these are
often called the secondary circuits (with the main current path called the primary circuit). Index A

Auxiliary Relay
A relay whose function is to assist another relay or control device in performing a general function by supplying
supplementary actions. Some examples are a relay used to provide seal-in functions, to increase the number of
available contacts, to provide circuit opening instead of circuit closing contacts or vice-versa etc. Index A
Top

B
Backfeed
To energize a section of a power network, supplied from a source other than its normal source. This may be a
desired state, or may be non-desired if the circuit is thought to be deenergized with the main incoming device
turned off, but is actually being backfed, for example, through the secondary of a transformer.
It is known that workers are sometimes injured when they try to work on a system they think is deenergized but is
actually backfed from a source they did not know about. Index B

BIL (Basic Impulse Insulation Level)

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A reference impulse insulation strength expressed in terms of the crest value of the withstand voltage of a standard
full impulse voltage wave. It is commonly used to define the overall insulation strength of the design, with other test
levels (e.g. applied tests) related in a standard method to the BIL.
Typically 5 kV class switchgear is 60 kV BIL, 15 kV class switchgear is 95 kV BIL, 25 kV class switchgear is 125
kV BIL (although 150 kV BIL is not uncommon at 27.6 kV), and 38 kV class switchgear is 150 kV BIL (with some
requests for 170 or 200 kV BIL at times). Index B

Bifurcated Feeder
A feeder connection where two loads are connected to one power source. Higher number of connections are also
possible, such as trifurcated feeders for three loads etc. Index B

Bolted Fault
A short circuit condition that assumes zero impedance exists at the point of the fault, as if a heavy bus bar was
solidly bolted across the point of the fault. This assumption is typically used to calculate the worst-case fault
current levels.
This term can also imply a fault that does not burn away in any reasonable time, but must be actually removed or
repaired. Index B

Burden (of a Relay)

The load impedance imposed by a relay on its source, expressed in ohms and phase angle at specified conditions.
Modern solid state protective relays have very small burdens, while some older electromechanical relays had
significant burdens, requiring the use of high output instrument transformers to drive them. Index B

Bus
A conductor, or group of conductors, which serve as a common connection for two or more circuits. In practice,
bus generally refers to the main power bus in the switchgear, but it could also refer to a data bus, or ground bus
etc. Index B

Bus Duct
See Metal-enclosed Bus, Isolated Phase Bus Duct. Index B

Bushing
An insulating structure including a through conductor, or a passageway for such a conductor, with provision for
mounting on a barrier (conducting or insulating), used for the purpose of insulating the conductor from the barrier
and conducting current from one side of the barrier to the other.
Bushings may use porcelain, epoxy or other type of insulating material in the structure, be smooth surfaced or with
sheds to increase the creepage distance. In metal-clad switchgear, bushing is sometimes the term used to
describe the assembly of the primary disconnect system (the term spouts is also used). Index B
Top

C
Cartridge Fuse
A low voltage fuse consisting of a current-responsive element inside of a fuse tube with connection terminals on

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both ends. Commonly used to protect control circuits in the switchgear LV control cabinet. Index C

Cassette
An assembly which provides all the necessary mechanical and electrical interlocks, circuit breaker supports,
shutter mechanism, racking mechanism etc. for a withdrawable circuit breaker, and which comprises nearly the
entire circuit breaker compartment. It still requires the front door to be added, and the other switchgear
compartments as well (low voltage, main bus, cable etc.).
Typically supplied to OEM switchgear manufacturers when they purchase a circuit breaker from a primary
manufacturer so that they do not have to design all of these components themselves. See also Cradle. Index C

Closing Time
The amount of time from the initiation of the closing operation and the instant when metallic continuity is
established in all phases. See also Opening Time, Arcing Time. Index C

Circuit Breaker
A mechanical switching device, capable of making, carrying and interrupting currents under normal circuit
conditions, and also making and carrying for specified time and interrupting current under abnormal circuit
conditions such as those occurring during short circuits.
Many different methods of achieving this functionality have been developed over the years, such as Air-blast, Airmagnetic, Minimum Oil, Bulk Oil, etc., but most modern medium voltage applications today use either SF6 or
Vacuum methods. Circuit breakers are usually intended to operate infrequently, although some types are made to
operate frequently. Index C

Circuit Switcher
A mechanical switching device with an integral interrupter, suitable for making, carrying and interrupting currents
under normal circuit conditions. It can also interrupt specified short circuit currents which may be less than its close
and latch, momentary and short time current ratings. It is usually less expensive than a circuit breaker, but does
not achieve the same performance level. Index C

Clearing Time
For a circuit breaker, it is the interval between the time the actuating quantity in the main circuit reaches the value
causing actuation of the release and the instant of final arc extinction on all poles of the primary arcing contacts. It
is numerically equal to the sum of the contact parting time plus the arcing time.
For a fuse, it is the interval between a specified overcurrent to the final circuit interruption at rated maximum
voltage. It is equal to the sum of the melting time plus the arcing time. Index C

Close And Latch

The rating of the ability of a circuit breaker or other switching device to close against the electromagnetic forces
(which are trying to force the contacts open), to latch into the closed position, and to carry a specified current
through the device under specified conditions. This is mostly related to ensuring the operating mechanism has
sufficient mechanical energy to overcome the electromagnetic forces. Index C

Close-Open Operation
A close operation of the switching device, followed immediately by an opening operation, without introducing any
deliberate time delay. It is commonly shown as CO.

Closing Coil
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A coil in the electromagnet that supplies power for closing the device, such as the circuit breaker. It must be
specified to have the correct control voltage rating for the installation. Index C

Compartment
Inside of a cell of metal-clad switchgear, there are different and separate compartments used to segregate different
components and functions from one another, to improve reliability and improve safety. Each compartment is
separated by a grounded metal barrier. Standard compartments are low voltage, circuit breaker, main bus and
cable, with other compartments possible as the design demands. Index C

Conformance Tests
Those tests made to demonstrate compliance with the applicable standards, such as CSA, ANSI or IEC. These
tests are generally performed after the test item has been subjected to all of the required production tests.
Demonstration of margin (capability) beyond the requirements of the standards is not required. See also Design
Tests, Production Tests. Index C

Connected Position (of a Circuit Breaker)

That position of the removable element in which both the primary and secondary disconnecting devices are in full
contact. See also Disconnected Position, Test Position. Index C

Contactor
A contactor is (usually) a magnetically operated switch for repeatedly establishing and interrupting an electric
power circuit. It may also include a mechanical latching system to hold the contactor closed without requiring a
continuous power supply.
A typical application is motor starting. It differs from a circuit breaker in that it will withstand a very high number of
operations (300,000 or more compared to 10,000 for a circuit breaker), has generally lower continuous current
ratings than ANSI circuit breakers and has lower interrupting and making capacities. It is not intended to interrupt
fault current on its own and is therefore often used in association with fuses or a circuit breaker. See also Circuit
Breaker. Index C

Control Power Transformer (CPT)

A transformer used to supply control power to switchgear. It is connected to the main switchgear bus as its power
source, is usually single phase only, and is usually 120 volts output (other voltages are possible). It is often a VT
located in a standard VT drawer, but may be a small power transformer if a sufficiently high power output is
required. Index C

Control Relay
An auxiliary relay whose function is to initiate or permit the next desired operation in a control sequence. Index C

Control Voltage
The voltage of the power supply used to energize a device in the switchgear. Typical voltages are 24, 48, 60, 110,
125, 220 or 250 volts DC, and 120, 127, 220 or 250 volts AC. Index C

Control Wiring
See Secondary and Control Wiring. Index C

Conversion (of Switchgear)

A general term pertaining to the process of altering existing power switchgear equipment. Conversion can involve

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as little as replacing the main or arcing contact tips with other than the original design material, to replacing the
entire arc-interrupting structure.
Changeover of an existing air-magnetic circuit breaker to an SF6 or vacuum design is properly called a conversion
(not retrofit as is commonly used). See also Reconditioning. Index C

Corona
An electrical discharge in air that only partially bridges the gap between two or more electrodes. Corona leads to
power loss (although this is fairly minor at medium voltage) and causes radio interference, as well as leading to
physical damage of the insulation over time if it is severe enough.
Corona can be tested by measuring the discharge magnitude using a radio receiver, and this is then referred to as
a Radio Influence Voltage (RIV) Test. See also Partial Discharge. Index C

CPT
See Control Power Transformer. Index C

Cradle
An assembly which provides all the necessary mechanical and electrical interlocks, circuit breaker supports,
shutter mechanism, racking mechanism etc. for a withdrawable circuit breaker, which is intended in turn to be
installed inside of a switchgear cell manufactured by others.
Typically supplied to OEM switchgear manufacturers when they purchase a circuit breaker from a primary
manufacturer so that they do not have to design all of these components themselves. See also Cassette. Index C

Creepage Distance
The shortest distance along the surface of an insulator from one conducting part to another, which may be
energized or at ground potential. When designing the device, the Creepage Distance must be long enough that it
will withstand the highest voltage foreseen for the installation within the specified conditions (such as pollution or
moisture). See also Strike Distance. Index C

CSA Standards
CSA is the acronym for the Canadian Standards Association. The National Standards of Canada are published
and controlled by the Canadian Standards Association. CSA has both mandatory standards and performance
standards.
There are mandatory standards published relating to switchgear, which are safety related. Index C

Current Injection
A synthetic test method where current is injected into a circuit in order to determine the operating characteristics of
other components connected to it. For example, it can be used to inject primary current into a current transformer,
to monitor what happens to secondary devices attached to the current transformer secondary. Index C

Current Limiting Fuse (CLF)

A fuse unit that when it is melted by a current within its specified current limiting range, abruptly introduces a high
resistance to reduce the current magnitude and duration. CLFs are used to limit damage to equipment by
dramatically reducing the energy let-though of the fuse. Index C

Current Transformer
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A transformer specially designed to accurately represent the primary current in a secondary circuit. Typically in
North America, current transformers are standardized to be 5 amperes when rated current is passed through the
primary circuit, although other values are possible. Index C
Current transformers can be used to power or provide information to such equipment as metering devices, or
protective relays.
Top

D
Dead-tank
A switching device in which a vessel at ground potential surrounds and contains the interrupter and insulating
medium. Metal-enclosed and metal-clad switchgear are obviously of dead front design, as are station breakers.
Index D

Dead Time
Usually referencing a circuit breaker on a reclosing operation, Dead Time refers to the interval between
interruption on all poles on the opening stroke, and the re-establishment of the circuit on the reclosing stroke. Index
D

Definite Time Relay

A relay in which the operating is substantially constant regardless of the input quantity. See Inverse Time. Index D

Derating Factors
There are a number of derating factors possible for switchgear. The two most common are related to altitude
above sea level. At high elevations, the breakdown strength of air decreases, and its ability to remove heat also
decreases.
Other derating factors may involve high ambient temperatures, high harmonics in the power system etc.:
Voltage: At and below 1000 meters, the normal rating applies. At 1500 meters elevation, the voltage must
be reduced to 95% or clearances increased accordingly. At 3000 meters, the voltage must be reduced to
80% or clearances increased accordingly. Intermediate values may be obtained by interpolation. Surge
arresters are strongly recommended at any elevation above 1000 meters.
Current: At and below 1000 meters, the normal rating applies. At 1500 meters elevation, the current must
be reduced to 99% or conductor cross sections increased accordingly. At 3000 meters, the current must be
reduced to 96% or conductor cross sections increased accordingly. Intermediate values may be obtained by
interpolation.
Index D

Design Tests
Those tests made to determine the adequacy of a particular type, style or model of equipment, with all of its
component parts, to meet its assigned ratings and to operate satisfactorily under its normal service conditions, or
under special service conditions if specified.
These tests are usually performed on representative apparatus, and are not intended to be performed on a regular
production basis. These tests are sometimes called Type Tests. See also Conformance Tests, Production Tests.
Index D

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Differential Protection
A method of protecting apparatus in which an internal fault is identified by comparing the electrical conditions on
the terminals of the apparatus. In the case of busbar differential protection, it is very straight forward (the current
that goes in must exactly equal the current that goes out).
In the case of motors or transformers, then special consideration must be given to inrush currents, and in the case
of transformers, to the turns ratio and winding connections as well. Index D

Direct Acting Overcurrent Trip Device

A release or tripping system that is completely self contained on a circuit breaker and requires no external power or
control circuits to cause it to function. Index D

Disconnected Position (of a Circuit Breaker)

That position in which the primary and secondary disconnecting devices of the removable element are separated
by a safe distance from the stationary element contacts. See Connected Position, Test Position. Index D

Disconnecting Switch
Same as Isolating Switch. A mechanical switching device used for changing the connections in a circuit, or for
isolating a circuit or equipment from the source of power.
It is required to carry normal load current continuously, as well as abnormal or short circuit currents for short times
as specified. It is required to open or close circuits when negligible current is interrupted or made. Index D

Dual Element Fuse

A fuse having responsive elements of two different fusing characteristics in a single series of fuse. See also Single
Element Fuse. Index D

Duty Cycle
A prescribed sequence of operations for a specific time, with specific time intervals between sequences. For
example, a motor may only be allowed to have a certain number of starts per hour, due to the overheating effect of
the high starting current.
The motor must be given time to cool off between starts in order to maintain the normal life expectancy. Index D
Top

E
Earth Fault Protection
Same as Ground Fault Protection. Earth is typically the terminology used in Europe, Ground being used in
North America. Index E

Electrically Trip Free

A term applied to electrically operated switching devices such as circuit breakers, indicating that the opening
release can open the device even though the closing release circuit is energized.
Electrically trip free devices are also usually designed with an anti-pumping relay, so that the closing mechanism
will not reclose the switching device after opening until the closing control circuit is opened and again closed. Index

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Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC)

A measure of the tolerance of equipment to external electromagnetic fields. It is very important for electronic
devices (for example) that are used in power equipment to have a high tolerance to electromagnetic fields. Index E

Expulsion Fuse
A vented fuse or fuse unit in which the expulsion effect of gases produced by the arc and the lining of the fuse
holder, either alone or aided by a spring, extinguishes the arc. Index E
Top

F
Feeder
A section of a switchgear assembly which supplies a load. A simple switchgear assembly typically consists of an
incomer (supplying power to the switchgear), a number of feeders (supplying power to various loads so that they
can be individually switched and/or protected), and perhaps a tie (to connect to another switchgear assembly).
Index F

Ferroresonance
An electrical resonant condition associated with the saturation of a ferromagnetic device, such as a transformer,
through capacitance.
Ferroresonance can arise, for example, when a weak source is isolated with a lightly loaded feeder containing
power cables or power factor correction capacitors. Ferroresonance can produce dangerously high voltages which
can cause equipment damage or failure. Index F

Fuse
An overcurrent protective device with a circuit opening fusible part that is heated and severed by the passage of
current through it.
The term fuse comprises all the parts that form a unit capable of performing the prescribed function, but it may or
may not be the complete device necessary to connect it into an electric circuit. See Cartridge Fuse, Current
Limiting Fuse, Fuse Link, Expulsion Fuse.

Fuse Link
A replaceable part or assembly, comprised entirely or principally of the conducting element, required to be replaced
after each circuit interruption to restore the fuse to operating conditions. Index F
Top

G
GIS Gas Insulated Substation
GIS equipment is a type of metal-clad switchgear construction, where all the switchgear power components are
located inside of a sealed metal envelope filled with (usually) SF6 gas.

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GIS equipment is often supplied into high voltage applications, but there are now offerings at medium voltage. GIS
has small space requirements, is impervious to atmospheric contaminants and no derating is required for high
elevations. Index G

Ground and Test Device (GATD)

A term applied to a switchgear accessory device that can be inserted in place of the drawout circuit breaker for the
purpose of either grounding the main bus and/or the external circuits connected to the switchgear assembly, and/or
primary circuit testing.
A normal GATD can carry the same full fault current of the switchgear assembly for a specified time. Optionally, a
modified circuit breaker can be used to provide the GATD functions and in addition allow full fault switching
capability. Index G

Ground Bus
A bus to which the grounds from individual pieces of equipment are connected, and that in turn is connected to
ground at one or more points. Typically in metal-enclosed switchgear, the ground bus is not insulated, and is
extended into every cell and every compartment in each cell (except the main bus compartment). Index G

Ground Fault Protection

A method of protection in which faults to ground within the protected equipment are detected and action taken
(alarm, trip etc.). Ground faults are usually detected using zero-sequence current transformers as the sensors.

Grounding Switch
A mechanical switching device by means of which a circuit or piece of apparatus may be electrically connected to
ground.
The switch may or may not have fault making capabilities. Integrated grounding switches are common in European
switchgear designs, but are rare in North American designs, although their popularity is slowly
growing. Index G
Top

H
Handling Device
That accessory used with metal-clad switchgear, used for the removal, replacement or transportation of the
removable element (e.g. circuit breaker). Not all metal-clad designs require the use of a Handling Device to move
the circuit breakers, but many do. Index H

High Speed Relay

In current practice, a relay that operates in less than 50 ms (milliseconds), which is less than three cycles on a 60
Hz system. Index H
Top

I
IEC Standards
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The acronym for the International Electrotechnical Commission.

This series of standards is produced by the IEC, and are typically used in most countries of the world, but not
widely in North America. Each country may adapt IEC standards to their own needs, especially in the past, but it is
now preferred that the basic standard be applied as is, where possible. When it comes to switchgear and circuit
breaker design and ratings, the two main global standards are IEC and ANSI.
The world is very slowly moving towards adopting IEC standards, but ANSI and IEC are different enough that this
is not easy to do. Index I

Interlock
A device actuated by the operation of some other device with which it is directly associated, to govern succeeding
operations of the same or allied devices. Interlock systems are a series of interlocks applied to associated
equipment in such a manner as to prevent or allow operation of the equipment only in a prearranged sequence.
There are three main types of interlocks, namely mechanical, electrical and key. Mechanical and electrical
interlocks are always present in some way in switchgear to provide for safe operation of the basic equipment. Key
interlocks are typically more of an optional accessory used to provide customer prescribed operation sequences.
Index I

Interrupter Switch
An air insulated switch, equipped with an interrupter, for making or interrupting specified currents, or both. The
nature of the current being made or interrupted is indicated by a suitable prefix, such as load interrupter switch,
fault interrupter switch, capacitor current interrupter switch, etc. Index I

Inverse-time Relay
A relay in which the input quantity and operating time are inversely related throughout at least a substantial portion
of the performance range. Various adjectives are commonly used to illustrate the level of inverseness of the
operating characteristics, such as standard, very, extremely, ultra etc. See also Definite Time Relay. Index I

Isolated Phase Bus

A bus in which each phase conductor is enclosed by an individual metal housing separated from adjacent
conductor housings by an air space. The bus may be self cooled or may be forced cooled, using gas or liquid.
Isolated phase bus is commonly used at very high current ratings, such as the output of large generators. Index I

Isolating Switch
Same as Disconnecting Switch. A mechanical switching device used for changing the connections in a circuit, or
for isolating a circuit or equipment from the source of power. It is required to carry normal load current continuously,
as well as abnormal or short circuit currents for short times as specified. It is required to open or close circuits
when negligible current is interrupted or made. Index I
Top

K
Key Interlock
See Interlock. Index K
Top

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L
Load Break Switch
See Load Interrupter Switch. Index L

Load Interrupter Switch

An interrupter switch designed to interrupt currents which are not in excess of the continuous current rating of the
switch. It may be designed to close and carry abnormal or short circuit currents as specified. Also colloquially
referred to as a Load Break Switch. Index L

Load Shedding
The process of deliberately removing preselected loads from a power system in response to abnormal conditions,
in order to maintain the integrity of the power system.
Load shedding can also be used to reduce demand in a specified part of a power distribution system for economic
reasons e.g. an industrial customer may shed specific loads to keep their kilowatt demand below a price increase
threshold (kW demand is often priced based on the peak usage in a calendar year, so keeping the demand below
a certain level can affect a whole years electrical billing). Index L
Top

M
Main Contacts
The main continuous current carrying contacts in a current interruption device. Typically, the interruption device is
designed so that the main contacts never see arcing themselves, that function being provided by arcing contacts
specifically designed to do so. Main contacts are sometimes referred to as the Primary Contacts. See also Arcing
Contacts. Index M

Main Connections
Those that electrically connect together devices in the main circuit, or connect them to the bus, or both. Also
referred to as the Primary Connections. Index M

Maintenance Interval
The period, which can be defined in terms of real time, operating time, number of operating cycles or a
combination of these, during which satisfactory performance is expected without maintenance or adjustment. Index
M

Margin
The difference between the demonstrated capability of the equipment and that required in-service for specific
conditions.

Medium Voltage
The term medium voltage refers to voltages above 1,000 volts and below 69,000 volts. The highest voltage metal
enclosed switchgear in general use in North America is generally 38 kV class, although there is a small amount of
44 kV. Usually at 44 kV and above, switching is achieved by the use of air-insulated substations with discreet
components. Index M

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Metal-clad Switchgear
Metal-clad switchgear is a specific type of metal-enclosed switchgear. While all metal-clad switchgear is metalenclosed, not all metal-enclosed switchgear can be classified as metal-clad.
Metal-clad is characterized by always having the following features:
The main switching and interrupting device is removable (drawout), with a mechanism to move it between
connected and disconnected positions, and equipped with self-aligning and self-coupling primary
disconnecting devices and disconnectable control wiring connections.
Major parts of the primary circuit are completely enclosed by grounded metal barriers that have no
intentional openings between compartments. A metal barrier shall be included in front of or part of the circuit
interrupting device to ensure that when in the connected position, no primary circuit components are
exposed by the opening of a door.
All live parts are enclosed within grounded metal compartments.
Automatic shutters that cover primary circuit elements when the removable element is in the disconnected,
test or connected positions.
Primary bus conductors and connections are covered with insulating material throughout.
Mechanical interlocks are provided for proper operating sequence under normal operating conditions.
Instruments, meters, relays etc. and their wiring are isolated by grounded metal barriers from all primary
circuit elements (short lengths of wire such as CT secondary leads are excepted).
The door through which the removable element is inserted may serve as an instrument or relay panel, and
may also provide access to the control compartment within the housing.
Note the proper spelling of metal-clad, with a dash and a lower case c.
Index M

Metal-enclosed Switchgear
Switchgear which is surrounded by a metal case or housing, usually grounded. Note the proper spelling of metalenclosed, with a dash and a lower case e. Index M

Metal-enclosed Bus
An assembly of conductors with their associated connections, joints and insulating supports within a grounded
metal enclosure.
The conductors may be rigid or flexible (if the flexible conductors are individual cables, then it may be called cable
bus). There are three types of metal-enclosed bus :
Nonsegregated-phase bus, in which all phase conductors are in a common metal enclosure without barriers
between phases. If associated with metal-clad switchgear, then the primary bus and connections shall be
covered with insulating material equivalent to the switchgear insulation system.
Segregated-phase bus, in which all phase conductors are in a common metal enclosure but are segregated
by metal barriers between phases.
Isolated-phase bus, in which each phase conductor is enclosed by an individual metal housing separated
from adjacent conductor housings by an air space. The bus may be self cooled or may be forced cooled,
using gas or liquid.
Index M

Minimum Oil Circuit Breaker

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A circuit breaker using a relatively small quantity of mineral oil for

its arc-interruption method. A low cost but now obsolete technology. See also Circuit Breaker. Index M

MOC
Mechanism Operated Contacts. A set of auxiliary switches generally containing both NO and NC contacts,
operated by the operating mechanism of a circuit breaker. They are used to signal the current state and the change
of state of the circuit breaker operating mechanism. Index M

MTB
Mean Time Between Failures. The time interval, usually expressed in hours, that may be expected between
failures of a piece of operating equipment. Index M

MTTR
Mean Time To Repair. The time interval, usually expressed in hours, that may be expected to return failed
equipment to proper operation. Index M

Mimic Bus
A single line diagram of the main connections of a system, constructed on the face of a switchgear or control panel
or assembly. Index M

Momentary Current
The current flowing in a device, an assembly or a bus at the major peak of the maximum cycle as determined by
the envelope of the current wave. Index M

Multi-pole Operation
A descriptive term indicating that all poles of the device are mechanically or electrically linked such that they
change state (open or close) substantially simultaneously. Index M
Top

N
Natural Frequency
A mechanical term, used to describe the frequency at which a body vibrates due to its own physical characteristics
(mass, shape) and electric restoring forces brought into play when the body is distorted in a specific direction and
then released while restrained or supported at specific points.
In general switchgear usage, generally important only for seismic analysis. Index N

Nominal System Voltage

A nominal value assigned to designate a system of a given voltage class. For example, in the 15 kV voltage class,
a Nominal System Voltage may be 13.8 kV, or 12.47 kV, or other. Index N
Top

O
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Octave
The interval between two frequencies that have a frequency ratio of two. For example, 1 to 2 Hz, 4 to 8 Hz, 64 to
128 Hz.
May be used in discussion of harmonics, or sound level spectrum analysis. Index O

Opening Time
The amount of time between the moment the actuating quantity of the release circuit reaches its operating value,
and the instant the primary contacts have parted. Typically, any intentional time delays which may be a part of
normal operation are reduced to zero for the purposes of determining opening time. Index O

Operating Mechanism
As part of a switching device, the part of the mechanism that actuates all the main circuit contacts of the switching
device either directly or by the use of a pole-unit mechanism.
It must provide sufficient mechanical force for the performance specified, and is designed to meet the specific
requirements of the switching device (for example, for vacuum circuit breakers, the operating mechanism is
expected to provide only a small contact travel distance, but very high acceleration and deceleration). Index O
Top

P
Partial Discharge
A localized electric discharge resulting from ionization in an insulation system when the voltage stress exceeds the
critical value. This discharge partially bridges the insulation between electrodes.
It is commonly used as a test to monitor the quality of manufacture of moulded or cast components (such as
current or voltage transformers, or stand-off insulators). If the discharge occurs in air, then it may also be referred
to as corona discharge. Index P

Pickup (of a relay)

The action of a relay as it makes designated response to progressive increase of input. As a qualifying term, it is
the state of a relay when all response to progressive increases of input has been completed.
Pickup is also used to identify the minimum value of an input quantity reached by progressive increases that will
cause the relay to reach the pickup state from reset. Pickup is also used to denote contact operation on relays
having multiple inputs, but in this case the pickup value of any input in meaningful only when related to all other
inputs. Index P

Pilot Protection
A form of line protection that uses some sort of a communications channel as a means to compare electrical
conditions at the terminals of a line. The communications channel may be metallic conductor, fiber optic cable,
microwaves etc. Index P

Pilot Wire Protection

Pilot protection in which a metallic circuit is used for the communicating means between relays at the circuit
terminals. Index P

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Plating (of Joints)

Copper (or aluminium) forms an oxide layer which will commonly cause a joint to have increased resistance and a
higher temperature rise. To obtain satisfactory lifetime performance, the high power joints in the main bus system
are plated with another metal, usually silver. Silver is the most conductive of all metals, and provides good service
with only a very thin plating thickness required (flash plating).
For very polluted environments, especially those containing high levels of sulphur, tin plating is used, as the silver
will rapidly tarnish. While tin is very stable in most atmospheres, it naturally provides a higher resistance joint than
silver, and therefore it is only used where its non-corroding properties are really required. Index P

Pole
That portion of the device associated with one electrically separated conducting path of the main circuit of the
device. The poles may be separate for each phase, or may be combined into a unified enclosure. Index P

Potential Transformer
An obsolete name for Voltage Transformer. See also Voltage Transformer.

Prestrike
The initiation of current between the contacts during a closing operation before the contacts have mechanically
touched. See also Restrike. Index P

Primary
Used as an adjective, primary can mean:
the first to operate e.g. primary arcing contacts
the first in preference e.g. primary protection
the main circuit as opposed to auxiliary or control circuits e.g. primary disconnecting device
the energy input side of a transformer (not necessarily the high voltage side)
Index P

Production Tests
Those tests made to check the quality and uniformity of the workmanship and materials used in the manufacture of
switchgear or its components. Performed on each switchgear that has been manufactured. See also Conformance
tests, Design Tests. Index P

Proof
So constructed, protected or treated so that successful operation is not interfered with when the device is
subjected to the specified material or condition.
For example, a sprinkler-proof switchgear can continue to operate if the fire protection sprinklers are operating. As
another example, the reason that the term arc-proof switchgear is not acceptable as a term, is that in the case of
an internal arcing fault, the switchgear cannot usually continue to be used until clean-up and repairs are
completed. See also Resistant. Index P

Protection Relay
A relay whose function is to detect defective lines or apparatus, other power system conditions of an abnormal or
dangerous nature and to initiate appropriate control circuit action.

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A protective relay may be described according to its input quantities (e.g. negative phase sequence relay),
operating principles (e.g. differential protection) or performance characteristics. Index P
Top

Q
Quick-break
A term used to describe a device that has a high contact opening speed which is independent of the operator.
Index Q

Quick-make
A term used to describe a device that has a high contact closing speed which is independent of the operator. Index
Q
Top

R
Racking (a Circuit Breaker)
The process of moving a circuit breaker or other removable element from the disconnected position to the test
position (if the test position is a different physical position) and into the connected position, or vice-versa. Racking
may be performed manually with the door open (rare in a modern switchgear design), manually with the door
closed (referred to as through-the-door racking) or electrically with the door closed.
For safety reasons, through-the-door racking systems are preferred, and are essentially required for arc-resistant
designs. Index R

Rated Operation Sequence

A standard operating sequence that a circuit breaker has been tested in accordance with. Under ANSI testing
rules, the Rated Operation Sequence is a close-open operation, followed by a 15 second delay to allow the
operating mechanism to recharge, and then a second close open operation. This is represented by CO 15s -CO.
Note that a fully tested ANSI circuit breaker has been tested for many other operation sequences as well.
Under IEC testing rules, there are three common Rated Operation Sequences. The first is an open operation,
followed by three minutes for cooling of the contacts, followed by a CO operation, then 3 minutes, then a final CO
(O 3 min CO 3 min CO). The second is a O 0.3s -CO 15 s CO. The third is O 0.3 s -CO 3 min
CO. Index R

Reconditioning (of switchgear)

A general term covering the process of maintaining existing switchgear equipment in operating condition as
recommended by the manufacturers instructions, using only the original manufacturers recommended
replacement parts, without altering the original design. See also Conversion (of Switchgear). Index R

Recovery Voltage
The voltage that appears across the terminals of a pole of a circuit interrupting device upon interruption of the
current. See also RRRV. Index R

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Refurbishment (of Switchgear)

See Reconditioning (of Switchgear). Index R

Removable Element (of a Switchgear Assembly)

The portion that normally carries the circuit switching and circuit interrupting devices and the removable part of the
primary and secondary disconnecting devices. In metal-clad switchgear, generally the circuit breaker is the
removable element. Index R

Renewal Parts
Those parts that must be replaced during maintenance as a result of wear. Index R

Resistant (used as suffix)

So constructed, protected or treated that damage will not occur readily when the device is subjected to the
specified material or condition. See Arc-resistant Switchgear, Proof. Index R

Restricted Ground Fault

Also called Restricted Earth Fault in Europe. Restricted refers to the zone that is being protected, just as
differential protection operates over a defined protection zone. It is often used to protect a specific machine such
as a motor. See also Zone of Protection. Index R

Restrike
A resumption of current between the contacts of a switching device during an opening operation after an interval of
zero current of 1/4 cycle at normal frequency or longer. It is preferable that restrikes do not occur as they can
stress the attached equipment by causing high recovery voltages. See also Prestrike. Index R

RIV
Radio Influence Voltage. Please refer to Corona, Partial Discharge. Index R

Rowgowski Coil
Essentially an air cored current transformer which, because it does not have a magnetic core, has a linear
response from zero current to very high values (well beyond what can be seen in any short circuit fault current in a
power system) and will not saturate.
Rowgowski coils provide a voltage output directly related to the current passing through the primary (e.g. 1 mV/A).
Rowgowski coils measure only the AC component of the current, not the DC component. The manufacture of a
good Rowgowski coil requires very precise winding of the coil. If the coil is wound properly, then the output does
not depend on the position of the central conductor in the coil window.
Generally, the output of a Rowgowski coil is connected to an integrator circuit which provides an output waveform.
Index R

Routine Tests
See Production Tests.

RRRV
Rate of Rise of Recovery Voltage. When current is interrupted quickly, a recovery voltage is generated, and the
faster the rate of change of current, the higher the recovery voltage becomes. It is important for a switching device

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to reform the dielectric breakdown strength of its interrupting medium quickly following the breaking of the current,
in order to be able to withstand the recovery voltage generated.
A switching device that can withstand a high recovery voltage will be less likely to restrike. See also Recovery
Voltage, Restrike. Index R
Top

S
Seal-in Relay
An auxiliary relay that remains picked up through one of its own contacts, which bypasses the initiating circuit until
deenergized by some other device.
For example, if a pressure switch is temporarily closed due to a momentary pressure surge, a seal-in relay can be
used to show it had tripped though an annunciator panel, until the operator manually resets it. Index S

SCADA
An acronym for Supervisory Control And Data Acquisition. A system operating with coded signals over
communication channels so as to provide control of remote equipment, typically using one communications
channel per remote station.
The supervisory system may be combined with a data acquisition system by adding the use of coded signals over
communication channels to acquire information about the status of the remote equipment for display or recording
functions.
Typical supervisory control functions are :
Alarm functions
Analogue functions
Control functions
Indication or status functions
Sequence of events function
Index S

Secondary
Used as an adjective, secondary can mean :
operates after the primary device e.g. secondary arcing contacts
second in preference
referring to auxiliary or control circuits as contrasted with the main circuit e.g. secondary disconnecting
devices, secondary and control wiring
referring to the energy output side of transformers (which does not have to be the low voltage side)
Index S

Secondary and Control Wiring

Wire used with switchgear assemblies for control circuits and for connections between instrument transformer
secondaries, instruments, meters, relays, or other equipment. Index S

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Secondary Disconnecting Device

Self-coupling separable contacts provided to connect and disconnect the auxiliary and control circuits between the
removable element and the housing. Index S

Sequence Currents
The set of currents that when combined, accurately and fully represent the total current in a polyphase system.
Consists of positive sequence, negative sequence and zero sequence currents. Index S

SF6
Sulphur Hexaflouride, a gaseous dielectric for high and medium voltage power application, used as an insulator
and/or interrupting medium. The highly stable SF6 molecule consists of one central atom of sulphur (S) surrounded
by 6 atoms of Flourine (F). Index S

Short Circuit
An abnormal connection, including an arc, of relatively low impedance, whether made accidentally or deliberately,
between two or more points of different potential. Index S

Short Line Fault

A fault which occurs close to the terminals of the circuit switching device may cause a different recovery voltage
waveform to be generated, essentially adding a high frequency sawtooth waveform to the voltage waveform. As
the distance to the fault increases, the amplitude of the sawtooth component increases, but the rate of rise
decreases, and the fault current decreases.
The increased amplitude of the voltage negatively affects the interrupting capability of the circuit switching device
while the decrease in rate of rise and the decrease in current makes interruption easier. Since the effects are not
proportional, a distance is reached where the affect on interruption is most severe, even though the current is less
than for a terminal fault. The critical distance depends on the type of interrupting medium used (air, oil, SF6 or
vacuum) and with the particular design of device.
At higher voltages, the critical distance may be on the order of 1.5 km, while at medium voltages the distance is
less. See also Terminal Fault. Index S

Shunt Release
A release, typically used to trip a circuit breaker or switch, which is energized by a source of voltage, which may be
derived from either the main circuit or from an independent source. The voltage is applied only when tripping is
desired. See also Undervoltage Release. Index S

Shutter
A device that is automatically operated to completely cover the stationary portion of the primary disconnecting
devices when the removable element is either in the disconnected position, the test position, or has been
completely removed. Grounded metal shutters are usually preferred for safety reasons, but insulating materials
may also be used in some applications. Index S

Single Element Fuse

A fuse having a current responsive element comprising one or more parts with a single fusing characteristic. See
also Dual Element Fuse. Index S

Sound Level
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A weighted Sound Pressure Level obtained through the use of a metering characteristic and a weighting algorithm.
Typically, the A weighting is used which represents the sensitivity of an average human ear, based on the hearing
ability of a young adult. Other weighting scales (B and C) are available but are not often used.
Essentially, a weighting of C is the same as the Sound Pressure Level itself. The designation of the weighting scale
used is indicated following the decibel symbol e.g. weighting scale A is indicated as dBA. Index S

Sound Pressure Level (SPL)

Twenty times the logarithm to the base 10 of the ratio of the pressure of a sound to the reference sound pressure of
20 micro Pascals (mPa), expressed as an rms value. The unit is decibel (dB). See also Sound Level. Index S

Spouts
The insulator/bushing system at the back of the circuit breaker compartment in drawout switchgear, which allow
the main (primary) connections of the circuit breaker to be plugged into the bus system (the main bus on one
connection, the feeder bus on the other). Sometimes referred to as the primary disconnects. See also Bushing.
Index S

Station Ground
A ground grid or any equivalent system of grounding electrodes buried beneath or adjacent to a substation that
determines the rise of ground voltage level relative to remote earth and controls the distribution of voltage gradients
within the substation during a fault.
The characteristics of the Station Ground are linked to the type, shape, number and composition of the ground
electrodes, the type of soil, the moisture content of the soil etc. Index S

Stationary Contact
A conducting part having a contact surface that remains substantially stationary during use. Index S

Strike Distance
The shortest distance measured though the insulating medium between parts of different polarities. These parts
may be conducting or insulating. The insulating medium is commonly air, but could be oil or SF6 etc. See also
Creepage Distance. Index S

Sulphur Hexaflouride (SF6)

See SF6. Index S

SF6 Circuit Breaker

A circuit breaker that uses SF6 gas for its interrupting method. See also Circuit Breaker. Index S

Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA)

See SCADA. Index S

Surge Arrester
A device used to limit the severity of a voltage surge in a power system. In its simplest form, it could be a spark
gap, however a more repeatable (and less stress-inducing) method is preferred. The first modern style of surge
arrester used silicon carbide (SiC) discs in series with a small spark gap.

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When the voltage became too high, the spark gap flashed over and the SiC discs conducted and absorbed excess
energy due to their inverse resistance (as the voltage across them increased, their resistance decreases).
In the early 1980s, modern zinc oxide (ZnO) discs were introduced and as have such an extreme inverse
characteristic, no spark gap is usually required. ZnO surge arresters are sometimes referred to as metal-oxide
type. Index S

Switchboard
A type of switchgear assembly that consists of one or more panels with electric devices mounted thereon, and an
associated framework. Index S

Switchgear
A general term which covers switching and interrupting devices and their combination with associated control,
metering, protective and regulating devices.
Also, assemblies of these devices with their associated interconnections, accessories, enclosures and supporting
structures used primarily in connection with the generation, transmission, distribution and conversion of electric
power. Index S

Switchgear Assembly
An assembled piece of equipment used indoors or outdoors, including one or more of the following : switching,
interrupting, control, metering, protective, regulating etc. devices, together with their supporting structures,
enclosures, conductors, electrical interconnections and accessories. Index S

Switching Device (Switch)

A device designed to close or open or both, one or more electric circuits. It must be able to open or close its rated
continuous load current, but note that the ability to do the same for fault currents is not part of the basic definition.
Index S

Synthetic Test
A test in which the major part of, or the total current is obtained from one source and the major part of, or all of the
transient recovery voltage is obtained from a separate source. Index S
Top

T
Telecontrol
The transmission of control signals to or from a remote apparatus using telecommunications techniques. Index T

Telemetering
The transmission of measurable quantities to or from a remote apparatus using telecommunication techniques.
Index T

Terminal Fault
A fault directly on or very close (a few meters) to the terminals of the circuit switching device. While the impedance
to the fault is very low, and the fault current is the highest in magnitude, this may actually not be the most severe
interrupting duty the switching device will see. See also Short Line Fault. Index T

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Test Cabinet
In terms of a switchgear assembly, a cabinet containing permanent electric connections with cable connections to
a contact box arranged to make connections to the secondary contacts on an electrically operated and removable
element, which permits operation and testing of the removable element when it is removed from the housing.
Index T

Test Position (of a Circuit Breaker)

That position in which the primary disconnecting devices of the removable element are separated by a safe
distance from the stationary contact elements, and some or all of the secondary circuits are in operating contact.
The test position may be the same physical position of the removable element as the disconnected position, just
with the secondary circuits not connected. See also Connected Position, Disconnected Position. Index T

Tie Feeder
A feeder that connects together two or more independent sources of power and has no tapped load between the
terminals.

Time Dial
Used in association with a relay, an adjustable graduated element by which, under fixed input conditions, the
prescribed relay operating time can be varied. Index T

Total Asymmetrical Current

The combination of the AC symmetrical component and the DC component of the current. Index T

Transfer Scheme
Equipment that (usually) automatically transfers a load to another source of power when the original source to
which it has been connected fails, and that (usually) automatically restores the load to the original source under
desired conditions. Index T

Transfer Switch
A switch or switches arranged to permit transferring a conductor connection from one circuit to another without
interrupting the current. Index T

Transient Inrush Current

The current that results when a switching device is closed to energize a capacitive or inductive circuit. The current
is usually characterized by its highest peak value and its frequency in Hz. Index T

Transient Overvoltage
The voltage which occurs during the transient conditions resulting from the operation of a switching device. The
voltage is expressed as the peak. Index T

Transient Recovery Voltage (TRV)

The voltage transient that occurs across the terminals of a pole of a switching device when the current is
interrupted. In a multiple pole switching device, the term is usually applied to the voltage across the first pole to
interrupt. Index T

Transition Cell
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A cell supplied in a switchgear assembly used to physically transition the bus coming in a specific location or
phasing on one side of the cell to the different bus location or phasing leaving the other side of the cell. Index T

Trip-free
The capability of a switching device to have the moving contacts return to and remain in the open position when
the open operation is initiated after the initiation of the closing operation, even if the closing force and the opening
command are maintained.
It may be necessary for the contacts to momentarily reach the closed condition. Index T

Trip-free Relay
An auxiliary relay whose function is to open the closing circuit of an electrically operated switching device so that
the opening operation can prevail over the closing operation. Index T

TOC
Truck Operated Contacts. A set of auxiliary contacts which are operated by the action of the truck of the removable
switching device changing physical position within the cell i.e. moving between the connected and disconnected
positions. Index T

Truck
The mechanical structure which supports the operating mechanism and the current interruption components, the
wheels or side rollers, and some of the required mechanical interlocks, for a removable device such as a circuit
breaker. Index T

Type Tests
See Design Tests. Index T
Top

U
Undervoltage Release
A type of circuit breaker triiping release which is held energized during normal operation, with the tripping action
being caused with the removal of the voltage. Not as common in North America as the Shunt Release. See also
Shunt Release. Index U

Unit Substation
A close-coupled arrangement consisting of one or more medium voltage service entrance cells of switchgear
(usually metal-enclosed type), a transformer (dry or liquid), and a line-up of typically low voltage (but perhaps
medium voltage) switchgear with feeder cells.
Close coupled means that the MV service entrance switchgear is bolted directly to the transformer which is bolted
directly to the LV (or MV) switchgear. If the transformer is cable connected or remote, then by definition it is NOT a
unit substation. Index U
Top

V
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Vacuum Circuit Breaker

A circuit breaker which uses a vacuum bottle for its interrupting method. See Circuit Breaker. Index V

Voltage Transformer
A transformer specially designed to accurately represent the primary voltage in a secondary circuit.
Typically in North America, voltage transformers are standardized to output 120 volts when rated voltage is
impressed on the primary circuit, although other values are possible. Voltage transformers can be used to power
metering devices, or provide control power.
Some users still use the previous term, Potential Transformer, however the term Voltage Transformer is the correct
one. Index V
Top

W
Withstand Voltage
The specified voltage that can be applied to insulation under specified conditions without causing flashover of
puncture to occur. Index W
Top

Z
Zone of Protection
That segment of a power system in which the occurrence of assigned abnormal conditions should cause the
protective relay system to operate. Index Z
REFERENCE: Schneider Electric Medium Voltage Switchgear Glossary

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