Medium Voltage Products

V-Contact VSC Medium voltage vacuum contactors

Index

4 8 18 29 34

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Description Contactor selection and ordering Specific product characteristics Overall dimensions Electric circuit diagram

1. Description

General The medium voltage V-Contact VSC contactors are apparatus suitable for operating in alternating current and are normally used to control users requiring a high number of hourly operations. The V-Contact VSC contactor introduces the drive with permanent magnets, already widely used, experimented and appreciated in medium voltage circuit-breakers, into the worldwide panorama of medium voltage contactors. The experience acquired by ABB in the field of medium voltage circuit-breakers fitted with drives with MABS permanent magnets, has made it possible to develop an optimised version of the actuator (bistable MAC drive) for medium voltage contactors. The drive with permanent magnets is activated by means of an electronic multi-voltage feeder. The feeders differ according to the integrated functions and to the auxiliary power supply voltage. Three bands of power supply are available with which all the voltage values required by the major international Standards can be covered. Each feeder is able to take any voltage value within its own operating band.

Versions available The V-Contact VSC contactors are available in the following versions:
Version Fixed Rated voltage 3.6 kV 7.2 kV 12 kV Withdrawable 7.2 kV 12 kV Type VSC 3 VSC 7 - VSC 7/F VSC 12 - VSC 12/F VSC 7/P - VSC 7/PN VSC 12/P - VSC 12/PN

The withdrawable versions are foreseen for use with UniGear switchgear, PowerCube units and CBE1 enclosures. For use with the CBE11 enclosures, please contact ABB. The VSC/ PN withdrawable contactor can only be used in ABB UniGear MCC panels. All the contactors mentioned above are available, on request, in one of the two following versions. SCO (Single Command Operated): closing takes place by supplying auxiliary power to the special input of the multivoltage feeder. On the other hand, opening takes place when the auxiliary power is either voluntarily cut off (by means of a command) or involuntarily (due to lack of auxiliary power in the installation). DCO (Double Command Operated): closing takes place by supplying the input of the closing command of the apparatus in an impulsive way. On the other hand, opening takes place when the input of the opening command of the contactor is supplied in an impulsive way. Fields of application The V-Contact VSC contactors are suitable for controlling electrical apparatus in industry, in the service sector, in the marine sector, etc. Thanks to the breaking technique with

vacuum interrupters, they can operate in particularly difficult environments They are suitable for control and protection of motors, transformers, power factor correction banks, switching systems, etc. Fitted with suitable fuses, they can be used in circuits with fault levels up to 1000 MVA (VSC7 - VSC12). Compliance with Standards V-Contact VSC contactors comply with the Standards of the major industrialised countries and in particular with the IEC 60470 (2000) Standards. Approvals Approval by the DNV and LL.RR shipping registers is foreseen. For these versions, please contact ABB.. Operating characteristics Ambient temperature: 5 C ... + 40 C Relative humidity: < 95 % (without condensation) Altitude: < 1000 m s.l.m. For other conditions, please contact us. Main technical characteristics Chopping current value 0.5 A Maintenance-free Suitable for installation in prefabricated substations and switchgear both of the card (slim line) and traditional type High number of operations Direct checking of contact wear Long electrical and mechanical life Remote control Multi-voltage feeder Bistable drive of the type with permanent magnets.

Electrical life The electrical life of V-Contact VSC contactors is defined in category AC3. Interruption principle The main contacts operate inside the vacuum interrupters (the level of vacuum is extremely high: 13 x 10-5 Pa). On opening, there is rapid separation of the fixed and moving contacts in each contactor interrupter. Overheating of the contacts, generated at the moment they separate, causes formation of metallic vapours which allow the electric arc to be sustained up to the first passage through zero current. On passage of zero current, cooling of the metallic vapours allows recovery of high dielectric resistance able to withstand high values of the return voltage. For motor switching, the value of the chopped current is less than 0.5 A with extremely limited overvoltages.

1 2 3 4 5 Schematic cross-section of the vacuum interrupter.

Ceramic housing Seal diaphragm Metal screen Moving contact Fixed contact

1. Description

MAC magnetic drive

ABB has implemented this technology in the field of contactors on the basis of experience gained in the field of circuit-breakers with magnetic drive. The magnetic drive adapts perfectly to this type of apparatus thanks to its precise and linear travel. The drive, which is of bistable type, is fitted with an opening and a closing coil. The two coils - individually energised - allow the drive mobile armature to be moved from one of the two stable positions to the other. The drive shaft is solid with the mobile armature and held in position in a field generated by two permanent magnets (fig. A). Energising the coil opposite to the magnetic latching position (fig. A) of the core, the magnetic field is generated (fig. B),

which attracts and moves the mobile armature into the opposite position (fig. C). Every opening and closing operation creates a magnetic field concordant with the one generated by the permanent magnets, with the advantage of keeping the intensity of the field itself constant during service, regardless of the number of operations carried out. The energy needed for operation is not supplied directly by the auxiliary power supply, but is always stored in the capacitor which acts as an energy accumulator, and therefore operation always takes place with constant speeds and times, independently of the divergence of the power supply voltage from the rated value. The auxiliary power supply has the only aim of keeping the capacitor charged. Consumption is therefore minimal. The power required is less than 5 W. In order to re-instate the rated power value in the capacitor after an operation, there is an inrush of 15 W for a duration of a few tens of milliseconds. For the reasons indicated above, both for the DCO and for the SCO version it is necessary to supply the auxiliary circuits which recharge the capacitor with a continuous auxiliary power supply of 5W (this value can reach 15W for a few milliseconds immediately following each operation). When first switched on (or when the capacitor is completely discharged), the power needed increases to 35 W x 6 s. Careful selection of the components and a precise design make the electronic multi-voltage feeder extremely reliable, unaffected by electromagnetic interference generated by the surrounding environment and free of any emissions which may affect other apparatus placed in the vicinity. These characteristics have made it possible for the V-Contact VSC contactors to pass the electromagnetic compatibility tests (EMC) and obtain the CE mark.

Fig. A - Magnetic circuit in the closed position.

Fig. B - Magnetic circuit with the opening coil supplied.

Fig. C - Magnetic circuit in the open position.

Control Module / feeder

As standard, the electronic control module is fitted with a connector with screw terminal board for connection of the auxiliary circuits. Technical documentation For more in-depth technical and application aspects of the VSC contactors, also consult the publication on the REF542plus multi-function control and protection unit - code 1VTA100001. Test laboratory Conforms to the UNI CEI EN ISO/IEC 17025 Standards.

Environmental Management System Conforms to the ISO 14001 Standards, certified by an external independent organization. Health and Safety Management System Conforms to the OHSAS 18001 Standards, certified by an external independent organization.

2. Contactor selection and ordering

General characteristics Rated voltage Rated insulation voltage Withstand voltage at 50 Hz Impulse withstand voltage Rated frequency Rated service current Short-time withstand current for 1 s Rated peak current Breaking capacity up to Short-circuit making capacity up to Number of operations (rated values) Contactor SCO Contactor DCO

Ref. to the IEC 60470 Standard (05-2000) [kV] 4.1 [kV] (1 min) [kV] 6.2 [kVp] 6.2 [Hz] 4.3 [A] 4.101 [A] 6.6 [kA peak] 6.6 [kA] 4.107 [kA] 4.107 [man./hour] 4.102.2 [man./hour] 4.102.2 [kA] [A] 6.102.4 [A] 6.102.5 4.8,4.9 [A] 4.4.101
(4)

VSC 3 Contactor 3.4.105 3,3 3,6 10 40 50-60 320 4.800 12 900 900 55 3.200 2.400 320 100,000 1,000,000 C 4,000 10,000 20...30 35...50 Starter 3.4.110 3,3 3,6 10 40 50-60 320 4.800 12 900 900 3.200 2.400 320 100,000 1,000,000 C 4,000 10,000 20...30 35...50 Combined with fuses 3.4.110.5 (5) 3,3 3,6 10 40 50-60
(2)

4.800 12 50 50
(3) (3)

900 900 3.200 2.400

(2)

Maximum rated admissible overcurrent for period (peak value) Rated load and overload characteristics in category of use: (Category AC4) 100 closing operations (Category AC4) 25 opening operations Rated voltage of the switching devices and auxiliary circuits Feeder type 1 (24 ... 60 DC) Feeder type 2 (110 ... 130 AC-DC) Feeder type 3 (220 ... 250 AC-DC) Normal current Electrical life at rated current verified as in cat. AC3 Mechanical life Apparatus wear classification (type) Short-circuit breaking capacity (O-3min-CO-3min-CO) Short-circuit making capacity (O-3min-CO-3min-CO) Limit above which the fuse blows Switching times Tropicalisation
(6)

[man.] 6.107 [man.] 6.101 [man.] 4.107.3 [A] 6.104 [A peak] 6.104 [A] 4.107.3

100,000 1,000,000 C
(7)

Opening time (lower and upper limit) [ms] Closing time (lower and upper limit) [ms] (IEC 721-2-1)

20...30 35...50

Ultimate performances for Rated voltage Motors Transformers Capacitors Ultimate performances for back-to-back capacitor banks Rated voltage Rated current Maximum transient current of the capacitor Maximum transient frequency of capacitor connection Fixed contactor [kg] 9 Height
H W D

VSC 3 - 320 A [kV] 2.2/2.5 [kW] 500 [kVA] 670 [kVAr] 330 VSC 3 - 320 A [kV] 2.2/2.5 [A] 250 [kA] 6 [kHz] 2 Withdrawable contactor 35 494 466 622 35 532 466 702 52 636 531 657 52 636 531 657 54 653 350 673 54 653 350 673 3.3 750 1.000 500

Weights and overall dimensions Weight (excluding the fuses) Overall dimensions Width Depth

VSC 3 VSC 7 VSC 12 VSC 7/F VSC 12/F VSC 7/P VSC 12/P VSC 7/PN VSC 12/PN 20 371 350 215 20 424 350 215 H [mm] 255 W[mm] 252 D [mm] 206

VSC 7 400A - VSC 7/F 400A - VSC 7/P 400A - VSC 7/PN 400A Contactor 3.4.105 7,2 7,2 23 (9) 60 50-60 400 6.000 15 900 900 55 4.000 4.000 400 100,000 1,000,000 C 6,000 15,000 20...30 35...50 Starter 3.4.110 7,2 7,2 23 60 50-60 400 6.000 15 900 900 4.000 4.000 400 100,000 1,000,000 C 6,000 15,000 20...30 35...50
(9)

VSC 12 400 A - VSC 12/F 400A - VSC 12/P 400A - VSC 12/PN 400A Contactor 3.4.105 12 12 Starter 3.4.110 12 12
(1)

Combined with fuses 3.4.110.5 7,2 7,2 23 60 50-60

(2) (9)

Combined with fuses 3.4.110.5 12 12

28 75

28 75

(1)

28 75

(1)

50-60 400 6.000 15 900 900 55 4.000 4.000

50-60 400 6.000 15 900 900 4.000 4.000 400 100,000 1,000,000 C 4,000 8,000 20...30 35...50

50-60
(2)

6.000 15 50 50
(3) (3)

6000 15 50 50
(3) (3)

900 900 4.000 4.000

(2)

900 900 4000 4000

(2)

400 100,000 1,000,000 C 4,000 8,000 20...30 35...50

100,000 1,000,000 C 5,000 20...30 35...50

100,000 1,000,000 4000 20...30 35...50

VSC 7 - 400A 2.2/2.5 1,000 1,100 1,000 VSC 12 - 400A 2.2/2.5 250 8 2.5
(1)

VSC 12 - 400 A
3.3 1,500 1,600 1,500
(8)

3.6/5 1,500 2,000 1,500 3.6/5 250 8 2.5

6.2/7.2 3,000 4,000 3,000 6.2/7.2 250 8 2.5

(6)

12 5,000 5,000 4,800 12 Not applicable

3.3 250 8 2.5

(2) (3)

(4)

(5)

Version for 42 kV 50 Hz x 1 min. between phases and between phase and earth available on request - (only fixed VSC12/G contactors without fuseholders and withdrawable VSC12/PG for UniGear panels I = 650 mm). Depending on the capacity of the coordinated fuse. Value linked to the breaking capacity of the fuse: refer to the fuse manufacturers documentation. Electrical life obtainable by following the maintenance programme given in the installation manual. Indicate the reference fuses.

(7) (8) (9)

This is the current value determined by intersection of the time-current trip curves of two protection devices - in this case the fuse and any thermal protection relay. For availability ask ABB. For these applications use VSC 12 up to 7.2 kV instead of VCS 7. Version with 32 kV -50Hz x 1 min between phases and between phase and earth available on request - (only fixed VSC7/G contactors without fuseholders, with-drawable VSC7/PG for UniGear panels I = 650 mm and VSC7/PNG for UniGear MCC).

2. Contactor selection and ordering

Standard fittings 1 MAC Drive with permanent magnets with capacitor for storing energy (1b) 2 Auxiliary contacts available to the customer
Contactor VSC 3 VSC 7 400 A VSC 12 VSC 7/P VSC 7/PN VSC 7/F VSC 12/P VSC 12/PN VSC 12/F Normally open 5 3 (SCO) - 2 (DCO) 5 5 5 (SCO) - 4 (DCO) Normally closed 2 5 5 5

The fuses must have the dimensions and striker of average type according to DIN 43625 Standards with maximum cartridge size e=442mm and BS 2692 (1975) with maximum cartridge size L=553mm. The electrical characteristics must conform to the IEC 282-1 (1974) Standards. ABB fuses type CMF-BS cannot be installed on V-Contact VSC contactor. The fuseholder is fitted with a special kinematics mechanism which automatically opens the contactor when even a single fuse blows and prevents contactor closing when even a single fuse is missing. 8 Isolation interlock with the truck (only withdrawable contactor). This prevents isolation or racking-in the contactor into the switchgear if the apparatus is in the closed position, and also prevents contactor closing during the isolation run.
Characteristics of the auxiliary contacts of the contactor Rated voltage: Rated current Ith2: Insulation voltage: Electric resistance: 24 ... 250 V AC-DC 10 A 2500 V 50 Hz (1 min) 3 mOhm

5 (SCO) - 4 (DCO)

3 Multi-voltage feeder. Different power supply ranges are available: a. Feeder type 1: 24-60 V d.c. b. Feeder type 2: 110-130 V d.c./a.c. 50-60 Hz c. Feeder type 3: 220-250 V d.c./a.c. 50-60 Hz 4 Socket/plug with terminal at terminal box 5 Manual emergency opening operation 6 Mechanical Open/Closed indicator 7 Fuseholders (only VSC/F, VSC/P and VSC/PN contactors). The VSC/F or VSC/P contactor is fitted with fuseholders able to hold DIN or BS type fuses according to what the customer requests.

The rated current and breaking capacity values in category AC11 and DC11 are indicated below.
Un 220 V ~ 24 V 60 V 110 V 220 V Cos 0.7 T 15 ms 15 ms 15 ms 15 ms In 2.5 A 10 A 6A 4A 1A Icu 25 A 12 A 8A 5A 2A

10

6 2

1b

VSC 3

(lateral and front view)

VSC 3
5 2

(rear view)

1b

VSC 7 - VSC 12

VSC/P

VSC/F

VSC/PN
11

2. Contactor selection and ordering

Optional accessories

The table below indicates availability of the accessories in relation to the various types of contactor.
Table of accessory availability VSC 3 VSC 7 400 A VSC 7/F 400 A

1a 1b 2a 2b 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11
(1) (2)

Interfacing shaft on feeder side Interfacing shaft on capacitor side Mechanical operation counter Electric operation counter (impulse counter) Undervoltage function (only DCO version) Extended connections Adapter for fuses Connection alternative to the fuses Position contacts for connected isolated position in the truck Isolation lock Locking magnet in the withdrawable truck Anti-insertion lock for different currents Motorisation of the truck
(2) (1)

Compulsory for UniGear switchgear. Assembly at a later stage is not possible.

1 Interfacing shafts

2 Operation counter

These can be used to interface the apparatus with the kinematics of the switchgear to make interlocks and/or signals. The interfacing shafts are available in two different lengths (A = 22 mm and 70 mm) and can be mounted on one or both sides of the contactor (as indicated in the following table).

Mechanical operation counter for fixed versions, electric impulse operation counter for withdrawable versions. This is a device which counts the contactor closing cycles.

Lenght A Position VSC3 VSC 7 400 A - VSC 7/F 400 A

22/70 mm Feeder side

Capacitor side

VSC 12 400 A - VSC 12/F 400 A

Note: for the utilisation parameters (angles and forces applicable), please refer to the instruction manual.

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VSC 7/P

VSC 7/PN

VSC 12

VSC 12/F

VSC 12/P

VSC 12/PN

3 Undervoltage function (only available for DCO)

4 Extended connections (terminals)

First of its type, the V-Contact VSC contactor is fitted with an undervoltage function with selectable delays of 0; 0,5; 1; 2; 3; 4; 5 s. This accessory must be specified at the time of order because it cannot be mounted at a later stage.

These allow the centre distance between terminals to be taken higher or lower, from 65 mm to 92 mm. This accessory must be specified at the time of order because it cannot be mounted at a later stage.

13

2. Contactor selection and ordering

Optional accessories

5 Adapter for application of fuses

6 Connections alternative to the fuses

The kit includes all the accessories needed to adapt and mount three fuses (according to DIN Standards with dimension e less than 442 mm; according to BS Standards with dimension L less than 553 mm). The kit can be installed directly onto the fuseholder supports. The fuses must have dimensions and striker of average type according to DIN 43625 and BS 2692 (1975) Standards. The electrical characteristics must conform to the IEC 282-1 (1974) Standards. To select the fuses, see Conditions of use according to the load - chapter 3. The adaptation kits are available in the following types: 5A For fuses according to DIN Standards with distance e = 192 mm 5B For fuses according to DIN Standards with distance e = 292 mm 5C For fuses according to BS Standards (2 x 8 x L = 235 mm) 5D For fuses according to BS Standards (4 x 10 x L = 305 mm) 5E For fuses according to BS Standards (4 x 10 x L = 410 mm) 5F For fuses according to BS Standards with distance L = 454 mm.

The kit includes three flat copper busbars and fixing screws to be installed when the fuses are not needed. The kit can be installed directly onto the fuseholder supports.

14

7 Position contacts for connected/isolated position in the truck

8 Isolation lock

These signal the position of the truck (accessory not available for V-Contact VSC/PN contactors). The kit includes a set of 10 auxiliary contacts. This accessory must always be requested for contacts to be used in UniGear type ZS1 switchgear if the same application is not already present on the fixed part. 7A Standard diagram 7B Calor Emag diagram.
Electrical characteristics of the contact
Un 220 V~ 220 V~ 220 V Icu 10 A 5A 1A cos 0.4 0.4 T 10 ms

Isolation lock for UniGear switchgear and PowerCube modules. It prevents the apparatus from being racked-in if the unit door is open. This lock only works if the door of the switchgear/enclosure is also fitted with the corresponding lock. This accessory is not compatible with use in CBE enclosures.

15

2. Contactor selection and ordering

Optional accessories

9 Locking magnet in the truck

10 Lock for different rated currents (only withdrawable versions)

This only allows the withdrawable contactor to be racked into/ out of the enclosure with the electromagnet energised and the contactor open. The table below shows the power supply voltages available.
Un 24 V 30 V 48 V 60 V 110 V 125 V 220 V Un 24 V ~ 48 V ~ 60 V ~ 110 V ~ 120 V ~ 127 V ~ 220 V ~ 230 V ~ 240 V ~ F 50 Hz 50 Hz 50 Hz 50 Hz 50 Hz 50 Hz 50 Hz 50 Hz 50 Hz Un 110 V ~ 120 V ~ 127 V ~ 220 V ~ 230 V ~ 240 V ~ F 60 Hz 60 Hz 60 Hz 60 Hz 60 Hz 60 Hz

In the VSC/P contactors, it prevents insertion of the plugsocket and therefore apparatus closing, in a panel provided for a circuit-breaker. This lock, which is compulsory for UniGear switchgear, requires the same lock provided on the enclosure / switchgear, and is associated with the presence of the locking magnet on the truck.

16

11 Motorised truck

12 Sliding earthing contact

Only available for VSC/P for use in UniGear switchgear and PowerCube units. This application must be specified at the time of ordering the contactor and cannot be mounted at a later stage. Not available on VSC/PN.
Characteristics Un: Operating limits: Rated power (Pn): 110 / 220V 85...110% Un 40 W

Available on request for VSC/PN. This application must be specified at the time of ordering the contactor and cannot be mounted at a later stage.

17

3. Specific product characteristics

Electromagnetic compatibility

Tropicalisation

The V-Contact VSC vacuum contactors ensure operation without unwarranted trips when there are interferences caused by electronic apparatus, by atmospheric disturbances or by discharges of electrical type. Moreover they do not produce any interference with electronic apparatus in the vicinity of the apparatus. The above is in compliance with IEC 60694, 60470, 610006-2, 61000-6-4 Standards, as well as with the EEC 89/336 European Directive regarding electromagnetic compatibility (EMC), and the feeders are CE marked to indicate their compliance.

V-Contact vacuum contactors are manufactured in compliance with the prescriptions regarding use in hot-humid-saline climates. All the most important metal parts are treated against corrosive factors corresponding to ambient conditions C in compliance with the UNI 3564-65 Standards. Galvanization is carried out in compliance with the UNI ISO 2081 Standard, classification code Fe/Zn 12, with thickness of 12x10-6 m, protected by a layer of conversion mainly consisting of chromates in compliance with the UNI ISO 4520 Standard. These construction characteristics mean that all the V-Contact VSC series apparatus and their accessories comply with climate graph no. 8 of the IEC 721-2-1 and IEC 68-2-2 (Test B: Dry Heat) / IEC 68-2-30 (Test Bd: Damp Heat, cyclic) Standards.

18

Altitude

It is well-known that the insulating properties of air decrease as the altitude increases. This phenomenon must always be taken into account during the design stage of insulating parts of equipment which is to be installed over 1000 m above sea level. In this case a correction coefficient must be applied, which can be taken from the graph drawn up according to the indications given in the IEC 694 Standards. The following example gives a clear interpretation of the indications given above. For altitudes above 2000 m, ask ABB.

Graph for determining the Ka correction factor according to the altitude Example Installation altitude: 2000 m Service at a rated voltage of 7 kV Withstand voltage at power frequency 20 kV rms Impulse withstand voltage 50 kVp Ka Factor = 1.13 (see graph).
kA 1,50

m=1

Ka = e m (H 1000)/8150
1,40

Taking the above parameters into consideration, the apparatus will have to withstand the following values (under test at zero altitude i.e. at sea level): withstand voltage at power frequency equal to: 20 x 1.13 = 22,6 kVrms impulse withstand voltage equal to: 50 x 1.13 = 56,5 kVp. From the above, it can be deduced that for installations at an altitude of 2000 m above sea level, with a service voltage of 7 kV, apparatus with a rated voltage of 12 kV characterized by insulation levels at power frequency of 28 kV rms and with 60/75 kVp impulse withstand voltage must be provided.
H = altitude in metres; m = value referring to power frequency and to the lightning withstand impulse and between phases.

1,30

1,20

1,10

1,00 1000 1500 2000 2500 3000 3500 4000 H

19

3. Specific product characteristics

Installation of fixed contactors

The performance of the contactor remains unaltered in the installation positions indicated: VSC 3 A) Wall-mounted with moving contacts at the bottom. B) Wall-mounted with moving contacts at the top.

VSC 7 - VSC 12 C) Floor-mounted with moving contacts at the bottom. D) Wall-mounted with horizontal moving contacts and terminals at the bottom. E) Wall-mounted with horizontal moving contacts and terminals at the top. F) Wall-mounted with horizontal moving contacts with interrupters on the front (or rear) with vertical terminals. G) Ceiling-mounted with moving contacts at the top.

VSC 7/F - VSC 12/F C) Floor-mounted with moving contacts at the bottom.

B E

VSC 3

VSC 7 - VSC 12

20

Use of fuses according to the load

Motor control and protection The motors are supplied in low voltage, normally up to a power of 630 kW. Over the latter power, medium voltage power supply is preferable (from 3 to 12 kV) with the aim of reducing costs and dimensions of all the apparatus which are part of the circuit. The V-Contact can be used for voltages from 2.2 kV up to 12 kV and for motors up to a power of 5000 kW, thanks to the simplicity and sturdiness of the control mechanisms and the long life of the main contacts. To ensure protection against short-circuit, it is necessary to combine the contactors with appropriate currentlimiting fuses. This solution allows the costs of the loadside apparatus (cables, current transformers, busbar and cable anchoring devices, etc.) to be further reduced and to make the user practically independent of any subsequent enlargements of the plant and of the consequent increased in network power. Procedure for selecting the fuses for motor protection (1) Selection of the fuses suitable for motor protection must be made by verifying the service conditions. The data to be taken into consideration are: power supply voltage start-up current duration of start-up number of start-ups/hour current at full motor load short-circuit current of the installation. Searching for trip coordination with the other protection releases in order to adequately protect the contactor, current transformers, cables, the motor itself and all the other apparatus present in the circuit, which could be damaged by prolonged overloads or by a specific let-through energy (I2t) higher than the one which can be withstood, also figures among the selection criteria.

Protection against short-circuit is carried out by the fuses, always selected with a rated current higher than that of the motor to prevent their intervention on start-up. This method of selection does not, however, allow their use as protection against repeated overloads - a function already not guaranteed by them, especially with current values included up to the end of the initial asymptotic stretch of the characteristic curve. A release with inverse or independent time is therefore always needed for protection against overloads. This protection must be coordinated with the one carried out by the fuse, working so that the release and fuse curves intersect at a point to allow the following: 1) Motor protection against overcurrents due to overloads, single-phase running, blocked rotor and repeated startups. Protection entrusted to an indirect relay with inverse or definite time delay trip which acts on the contactor. 2) Protection of the circuit against fault currents, between phases and towards earth, of low value, entrusted to a release with inverse or definite time delay trip, which must only intervene for the short-circuit values which can be interrupted by the contactor. 3) Protection of the circuit against fault currents higher than the breaking capacity of the contactor up to the maximum fault withstand current. Protection entrusted to the fuse. To verify the service conditions, proceed as follows: Rated voltage Un. This must be equal to or higher than the service voltage of the installation. Check that the level of insulation of the network is higher than the switching overvoltage value generated by the fuses, which for the fuses used by ABB is widely below the limit fixed by the IEC 282-1 Standards.

(1) The selection criterion indicated refers to ABB type CMF fuses.

21

3. Specific product characteristics

Rated current In. This must be selected by consulting the diagrams indicated in fig. A which refer to the case of starting at fairly even time intervals, except for the first two start-ups of each hourly cycle which can take place in immediate succession. Each diagram refers to a different starting time: 6 s - 15 s 60 s, respectively. In the case of start-ups close together, it must be checked that the starting current does not exceed the value of If x K, where If is the fuse blowing current in correspondence with the starting time of the motor, and K is a minor factor of the unit, a function of the In of the fuse and which can be taken from the table given in figure B. Full load motor current. The rated current of the fuse must be of a value equal to or higher than 1.33 times the rated current value of full motor load. This condition is, in any case, always obtained for motors started at full voltage for which the procedure described for selection of the rated fuse current necessarily imposes values which are always higher than 1.33 In. Short-circuit current. The short-circuit current limiting curves in fig. C allow the short-circuit current limitation on the load side of the fuses involved in the fault to be appreciated. And this implies smaller sizing of the load side apparatus. Example of coordination for overload of a fuse-relay with inverse time delay trip
Motor characteristics: Pn Un lstart Tstart No. hourly operations = 1000 kW = 6 kV 5 In = 650 A = 6s = 16.
In = rated current of the fuse IA = motor start-up current

In the curve with starting time of 6 s in fig. A, in correspondence with the 650 A starting current value, the straight line, traced for 16 hourly start-ups, intersects in the range of the 250 A fuse. In the fuse blowing time curve, it can be noted that the 250 A fuse blows in 6 s (starting time) when it is passed through by a current of 1800 A.

Nh = number of motor start-ups in one hour tA = maximum motor start-up time Fig. A - Fuse selection curves for motor start-up. ABB CMF type fuses.

22

In the table in fig. B, the K coefficient for the 250 A size is 0.6, from which the value If x K = 1080 A is taken, which is higher than the start-up current (650 A), so use of the 250 A fuse is also legitimate in respect of this condition, which regards the possibility of start-ups close together. By observing the blowing curve of the 250 A fuse, the need to use a relay with inverse time delay trip, or a relay with definite time delay trip for protection against overloads can be noted. It must be remembered that prolonged overheating, above the temperature foreseen for the class of insulating materials, is harmful and strongly prejudices the life of electric machines.

Curve of blowing times of a fuse

Table for selection of factor K

Un [kV] 3,6 7,2 12 K

In [A] 63 63 63 0,75 100 100 100 0,75 160 160 160 0,7 200 200 200 0,7 250 250 0,6 315 315 0,6
Is = prospective short-circuit symmetrical current Ip = current limited by the fuse (peak value)

Fig. B - Curve of fuse blowing times and table for selection of factor K. ABB CMF type fuses.

Fig. C - Short-circuit current limitation curves. ABB CMF type fuses.

23

3. Specific product characteristics

Fig. D shows the graph relative to the motor considered in the example. Motor starting Motor starting poses the problem of the high current consumption on inrush. In most cases, since these are asynchronous motors, the start-up current can take on the following values: asynchronous with simple squirrel cage 4.5 ... 5.5 In asynchronous with double squirrel cage 5 ... 7 In asynchronous with wound motor: low values, dependent on selection of the starting resistances. This current cannot be available if the short-circuit power of the network is not sufficiently high and, in any case, can give

rise to a drop in voltage for the whole duration of starting, which cannot be tolerated, from the loads derived from the network itself. Normally a voltage drop between 15 and 20% is considered acceptable except for verification needed in the case of special users. The full voltage start-up condition can be checked analytically and turns out to be possible in most cases. If the calculations show that the start-up power causes a voltage drop higher than the admissible one, starting with reduced voltage must be used, with consequent reduction in the start-up current. For this purpose, starting with a stepdown autotransformer is generally used.

Wiring diagram.

Icn Ia In t I F T Ip

= = = = = = = =

maximum short-circuit current in amperes that the contactor can interrupt motor start-up current in amperes motor rated current in amperes time in seconds current in amperes time-current characteristic of the 250 A fuse inverse time characteristics of the indirect relay for protection against overloads (K51) peak value of the motor connection current

Fig. D - Graph showing the coordination between 250 A fuse and relay with inverse time delay trip.

24

For large motors it may be more convenient to use a transformer, whose sizing can be a little higher than the power required by the motor, dedicated exclusively to the machine: start-up therefore takes place with reduced voltage (strong voltage drop on the secondary winding of the transformer) without the rest of the plant being affected.

By suitably combining different enclosures, with withdrawable contactors appropriately fitted with accessories, any motor starting, control, protection and measurement diagram can be made. Fig. E shows some typical electric diagrams which can be made with withdrawable contactors.

M 3~

M 3~

Transformer power supply

Motor starting with full voltage

Reversal of motor running

Motor starting with dedicated transformer

Star-delta motor starting

Motor starting with reactor

Motor starting with autotransformer

Fig. E - Typical diagrams of transformer power supply and motor starting

25

3. Specific product characteristics

Transformer protection and fuse selection (1) When contactors are used for transformer control and protection, they are fitted with special types of currentlimiting fuses which guarantee selectivity with other protection devices and which can take the high transformer connection currents without deterioration. Unlike what has been seen for motors, in this case protection against overcurrents on the medium voltage side of the transformer is not indispensable since this task is carried out by the protection provided on the low voltage side. The protection on the medium voltage side can be entrusted to the fuse alone, which must be selected taking into account the no-load connection current, which can reach values up to 10 times the rated current for smaller transformers built with orientated crystal core laminations. The maximum connection current is reached when circuitbreaker closing takes place in correspondence with passage through zero of the voltage. Another result to be guaranteed is protection against faults in the low voltage winding and in the connection stretch from this to the circuit-breaker located on the secondary winding, avoiding the use of fuses with rated current which is too high, to be able to ensure tripping within a short time even under these fault conditions. A rapid check of the short-circuit current at the secondary terminals of the transformer and on the supply side of the circuit-breaker on the secondary, if placed at a significant distance, allows the trip time to be verified on the fuse blowing curve. The table of use given below takes both the required conditions into account, i.e. rated current sufficiently high to prevent unwarranted blowing during the no-load connection phase and, in any case, of a value which guarantees protection of the machine against faults on the low voltage side.

Connection of capacitors The presence of current transients, which occur during switching-in of a capacitor bank, requires attention during the calculation procedures. In fact, assessment of the size of the phenomenon provides the elements for selecting the switching apparatus suitable for connecting/disconnecting the bank and for guaranteeing its protection in the case of overload. To make this calculation, the power factor correction installations must be divided into two types: 1) installations with a single three-phase capacitor bank (single bank installations) 2) installations with several three-phase capacitor banks, which can be connected separately (multiple bank installations). In the first type of installations there is only one type of switching-in transient, called switching-in transient of a single capacitor bank to the network. An example of a typical current transient is shown in fig. A. In the second type of installations there are two types of switching-in transients: on connection of the first capacitor bank there is the switching-in transient of a capacitor bank to the network on connection of the other banks there is a switching-in transient of a capacitor bank to the network with other banks already supplied in parallel. In this case, the current transient is the type shown in fig. B. Selection of contactors suitable for connection of capacitor banks The CEI 33-7 and IEC 871-1/2 Standards specify that the capacitor banks ... must be able to operate correctly under overload with an effective line current value up to 1.3 In, not taking into account the transients.

(1) Selection criteria relative to ABB CEF type fuses.

Selection table for fuses for transformers

Rated voltage [kV] 3.6 5 6.6 7.2 10 12 Rated transformer power [kVA] 100 40 25 25 25 16 16 125 40 25 25 25 16 16 160 63 40 26 26 25 16 200 63 40 40 40 25 25 250 63 63 40 40 25 25 315 63 63 63 63 40 25 400 100 63 63 63 40 40 500 100 100 63 63 63 40 630 160 100 100 63 63 63 800 160 160 100 100 63 63 1000 200 160 100 100 100 63 1250 250 200 160 160 100 100 1600 315 250 200 160 160 100 2000 -250 200 160 160 160 2500 -315 250 200 160 160
Rated fuse current [A]

26

Trend of the current and voltage during and after the switching-in transient.

Trend of the current and voltage during the first 10 ms of the switching-in transient.

a b c d

= = = =

Transient switching-in current: first peak at 600 A peak and 920 Hz frequency. Transient voltage at the 400 kVAR bank terminals. Power supply phase voltage 10/3 = 5.8 kV. Rated bank current at 50 Hz: 23.1 A.

Fig. A - Example of a current transient during connection of a single capacitor bank.

Trend of the current and voltage during the first 2 ms of the switching-in transient.

Trend of the two components of the total current (see graph above).

a b c d e

= = = = =

Transient switching-in current: 1800 A peak and 4280 Hz frequency. Transient voltage at the 400 kVAR bank terminals Power supply phase voltage: 10/3 = 5.8 kV. Component at 4280 Hz frequency of the transient switching-in current. Component at 1260 Hz frequency of the transient switching-in current.

Fig. B - Example of a current transient during connection of a capacitor bank with another one already supplied with voltage.

27

3. Specific product characteristics

The switching, protection and connection devices must therefore be designed to withstand continuously a current 1.3 times the current there would be at the rated sinusoidal voltage and at the rated frequency. According to the effective value of the capacity, which may also be 1.10 times the rated value, this current can have a maximum value of 1.3 x 1.10 = 1.43 times the rated current. It is therefore advisable to select the rated normal current of the contactor for operating the capacitor bank at least equal to 1.43 times the rated current of the bank. The V-Contact VSC contactors completely fulfil the requirements of the Standards, particularly those regarding connection and disconnection operations of banks and the overvoltages which, in any case, do not exceed three times the peak value of the rated phase voltage of the installation. Single bank The parameters of the current transient, peak values and own frequency, which are present in the case of connection of the bank to the network, are usually of notably smaller size than those in the case of multiple banks. Two or more banks (back-to-back) In the case of several capacitor banks, it is necessary to make the calculations regarding the installation, considering operation of a single bank with the other capacitor banks already connected. Under these conditions, it is necessary to check that: the maximum switching-in current does not exceed the value given below (see table); the switching-in current frequency does not exceed the value given below (see table).
Peak current 6 kAp 8 kAp Maximum switching 2,000 Hz 2,500 Hz

For example, in the case of the VSC12 400A contactor, the Ip (ka) x f (Hz) value must not exceed 8 x 2,500 = 20,000. To calculate the switching-in current and frequency, refer to the ANSI C37.012 Standards or to the IEC 62271-100 Annex H Standards. Should higher values than those indicated be obtained in the calculations, it is necessary to connect air reactors of suitable value in the circuit. The use of reactors is, however, recommended in the case of frequent operations with high switching-in frequencies.

Environmental protection programme

The V-Contact VSC contactors are constructed in compliance with the ISO 14000 Standards (Guidelines for environmental management). The production processes are carried out in compliance with the Standards for environmental protection both in terms of reduction of energy consumption and raw materials and of production of waste. All this is thanks to the environmental management system in the production facility conforming to what is certified by the certifying Organisation. The minimal environmental impact during the life cycle of the product (LCA - Life Cycle Assessment), is obtained by targeted selection of materials, processes and packing made during the design stage. The production techniques prepare the products for easy dismantling and easy separation of the components to allow maximum recycling at the end of the useful life cycle of the apparatus. For this purpose, all the plastic components are marked according to ISO 11469 (2nd ed. 15.05.2000). When compared with a contactor fitted with a traditional operating mechanism, V-Contact VSC contactors allow an energy saving which prevents emission into the atmosphere of about 7000 kg of carbon dioxide (CO2).

Contactor VSC 3 320 A VSC 12 400 A at 7.2 kV

Ip (ka) x f (Hz) 12,000 20,000

For switching-in current values under the values indicated, the switching-in frequency can be increased so that the product Ip (kA) x f (Hz) - is as indicated in the table.

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4. Overall dimensions

VSC 3 fixed contactor (65 mm connection centre distance)

VSC 3 fixed contactor (95 mm connection centre distance)

29

4. Overall dimensions

VSC 7 fixed contactor

VSC 12 fixed contactor

30

VSC 7 fixed contactor with fuses

VSC 12 fixed contactor with fuses

31

4. Overall dimensions

VSC 7/P - VSC 12/P withdrawable contactor

32

VSC 7/PN - VSC 12/PN withdrawable contactor

616 217 201 184 26 45 8 46 23 8

221

10

20

652,5

45

40

B
55

376,5

"OUT"
19 15 310 339 30,50 350 372 397 470 143 57

10 115 115

55,5 45

80

208

"TEST"
616 8 16 5

1:2
40

1:2

"IN"

1:2
19

10

8 8 16 376,50

4 57

Contactor VSC 7/PN VSC 7/PNG VSC 12/PN

D 270.5 269.5 269.5

E 108 108 129

Protection F Not present Present Present

53

33

5. Electric circuit diagram

The diagrams given below show, as an example, the contactor circuits. In any case, to take into account product development and for specific applications, it is always useful refer to the electric circuit diagram provided with each piece of apparatus.

State of operation represented The diagram indicates the following conditions: circuit-breaker open circuits de-energized in service position (withdrawable contactor).

Graphic symbols for electric diagrams (IEC Standards)

Thermal effect Connections of conductors Make contact Lamp (general symbol)

Electromagnetic effect

Terminal or clamp

Break contact
DI...

Digital isolated binary inputs

Pushbutton control

Socket

Changeover contact with momentary interruption

-TR2

Rectifier in full wave (bridge) connection

Earth (general symbol)

Socket and plug (female and male)

Power circuit-breaker with automatic opening

-RD

Diode

Conductive electric part, frame

Capacitor (general symbol)

Control coil (general symbol)

-PC

Operation counter

Conductor in shielded cable(e.g. three conductors)

Potentiometer with moving contact

Electric impulse counter

34

VSC fixed contactor - DCO version (Double Command Operated)

DCO: DOUBLE COMMAND OPERATED

WARNING: the voltage at the feeder terminals of the electronic card and the control circuit (terminals 1-3-7-9 and 2-4-8-10) must come from a single auxiliary circuit supply and from the same circuit-breaker.

VSC fixed contactor - SCO version (Single Command Operated)

SCO: SINGLE COMMAND OPERATED

WARNING: the voltage at the feeder terminals of the electronic card and the control circuit (terminals 1-311 and 2-4-12) must come from a single auxiliary circuit supply and from the same circuit-breaker.

35

5. Electric circuit diagram

VSC fixed contactor auxiliary contacts

36

VSC/PN contactor

DCO: DOUBLE COMMAND OPERATED WARNING: the voltage at the feeder terminals of the electronic card and the control circuit (terminals 1-3-7-9 and 2-4-8-10) must come from a single auxiliary circuit supply and from the same circuit-breaker.

VSC/PN contactor

SCO: SINGLE COMMAND OPERATED

WARNING: the voltage at the feeder terminals of the electronic card and the control circuit (terminals 1-3-11 and 2-4-12) must come from a single auxiliary circuit supply and from the same circuit-breaker.

37

5. Electric circuit diagram

VSC/PN contactor

only for fig. 3

38

Fixed and withdrawable contactor

Output contact
DO 1 Unit Ready

Input signals
DI 1 DI 2 DI 3 Closed Comand (SCO) Open Comand (SCO) Under Voltage (DCO) Closed / Under Voltage (SCO)

39

5. Electric circuit diagram

Caption -XB = Delivery terminal board of contactor circuits available for customer -QC = Contactor -QB = Circuit-breakers or change-over contact for customer -MO = Shunt opening release -MC = Shunt closing release -SC = Closing push-button -SO = Opening push-button -CC = Capacitor -AR = Control and protection unit -BB1..-BB2 = Auxiliary contacts (N 2 packs of 5 contacts) -BD1 = Enclosure door position contact (with the door open, the electrical racking-in/racking-out operation of the contactor is not possible). -BT3 = Contatto di posizione del contattore, aperto durante la corsa di sezionamento del carrello -BF1..-BF2 = Position contacts of medium voltage fuses -DR = Contatto per la segnalazione elettrica di circuiti di controllo e attuazione pronti. Sono verificate le due condizioni seguenti: - disponibilit energia capacitiva - sistema elettronico funzionante -PRDY = Signal of control and actuating circuits ready. The following conditions are fulfilled: - capacitive energy available - electronic device in working conditions -SO4 = Pushbutton or contact for opening undervoltage contactor (contact closed with voltage present) -KA = Control auxiliary relay or contactor (use ABB Elettrocondutture type B7 or BC7 or equivalent) -TR2 = Rectifier with two half-waves (bridge) type KBPC 1008 380V 10A RBL2.

Description of figures Fig. Fig. Fig. Fig. DCO: control circuits of the contactor Under Voltage only for version DCO on request SCO: control circuits of the contactor Locking magnet on the truck. If de-energized, it prevents the contactor racking-in and rackingout machanically Fig. 5 = Auxiliary contacts of contactor Fig. 15...18 = Auxiliary contacts for VSC3. 1 2 3 4 = = = =

Incompatibility The combinations of circuits given in the figures below are not possible on the same contactor: 1-3 2-3

Notes A) The contactor is only fitted with the accessories specified in the order confirmation. To make out the order, please consult this catalogue.

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41

Contact us

Copyright 2010 ABB. All rights reserved.

ABB AG Calor Emag Medium Voltage Products Oberhausener Strasse 33 Petzower Strasse 8 D-40472 Ratingen D-14542 Glindow Phone: +49(0)2102/12-1230, Fax: +49(0)2102/12-1916 E-mail: calor.info@de.abb.com www.abb.com

1VCP000165 - Rev. I, en - Technical catalogue - 2010.02 - (V-Contact VSC) (gs)

ABB S.p.A. Power Products Division Unit Operativa Sace-MV Via Friuli, 4 I-24044 Dalmine Tel.: +39 035 6952 111 Fax: +39 035 6952 874 e-mail: sacetms.tipm@it.abb.com

The data and illustrations are not binding. We reserve the right to make changes without notice in the course of technical development of the product.