User Manual: Cable Test and Fault Location System
User Manual: Cable Test and Fault Location System
User Manual: Cable Test and Fault Location System
User manual
ETL-40.UM.EN.TR
Rev 1.4
EU – European Union;
HV – high-voltage;
OuT – object under test;
System – cable test and fault location system ETL-40;
UM – user manual.
WARNING
Failure to follow the safety guidelines described in this manual and
inability to interpret standard visual warnings can result in serious
injury or death.
Only personnel thoroughly familiar with safety instructions described in
this manual may be authorised to operate and maintain the product.
• All those involved in operating and maintaining the product must strictly observe the
health and safety principles and other occupational safety provisions described herein.
• Keep the manual at hand for quick reference whenever necessary.
WARNING
Hazardous voltage
The product outputs potentially lethal voltage. Do not touch any exposed
conductors on the testing site unless the product, OuT and
interconnecting circuits are disconnected from power sources, de-
energized and grounded.
WARNING
Hazardous voltage
In order to avoid electric shock, never use water to extinguish flames on
the objects which may be under live voltage. In such cases, use
extinguishing means suitable for flammable materials and potentially
lethal live circuits.
WARNING
Hazardous voltage
All objects to be tested must be disconnected, de-energized and properly
isolated from all power sources.
• Avoid accidental re-energizing of OuT from external power sources during the test.
• Always treat exposed connectors and conductors as potential electric shock hazards.
Never assume that an object that has been subjected to a test is safe to handle without
using the necessary safety equipment and grounding procedures.
• For the duration of the test all auxiliary electrical apparatus such as switchgear or surge
arresters must be disconnected from the OuT.
WARNING
Hazardous voltage
The earth and ground connections must be made first and removed last.
Any break in the grounding connection may create an electric shock
hazard. The test leads must always be disconnected from the OuT first
before they are disconnected from the test equipment.
• All grounding connectors of the product must be clean and secure. Always use protective
earthing and maintain the integrity of the grounding.
• Inspect the earthing and grounding circuit before every test.
• When connecting an object to be tested to the HV circuit, always connect the earth cable
to the grounding circuit FIRST. Once the test is finished, disconnect the earth cable from
the object LAST.
• Since some electrical apparatus such as cables are essentially capacitors, they can hold a
residual charge after being exposed to a test. These electrical apparatuses must therefore
remain grounded for sufficient time to drain off any remaining charge.
WARNING
Hazardous voltage
Use suitable barriers, barricades or warnings to keep persons not directly
involved with work away from the test site.
WARNING
Hazardous voltage
Magnetic field generated by the product may cause interference with
cardiac pacemakers. No persons with implanted artificial pacemakers
may be allowed on the test site while the product is operating.
• Adhere to the Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations brought into force
by the EC Safety Signs Directive 92/58/EEC on the provision and use of safety signs or
equivalent legislative instruments as applicable in your particular jurisdictions.
• Where a significant risk to the health and safety of employees and other persons remains
despite putting in place all other relevant measures, safety signs and signals are required.
• Safety is the responsibility of the user/operator. The manufacturer is not responsible for
any loss and damages incurred by improper use of the product or failure to comply with
servicing and operating procedures or safety requirements.
ETL-40 is a van-mounted single-phase cable test and fault location system (“System”), designed
for:
1The System performs full-wave voltage rectification on the output. When connected to a capacitive load,
the voltage on the output closely resembles direct. Thus, in this document direct voltage stands for full
wave rectified voltage (in the case of an idle run).
TIP
Check completeness of supply as per the scope of standard supply and having accounted for any
modifications of your specific order immediately after receiving the System. Report any missing,
incorrect or defective parts to KharkovEnergoPribor Ltd. or its authorised reseller.
HC
OC
Operator compartment contains all the switches, controls and displays, necessary to operate the
System once it is properly connected to an OuT.
TIP
During the normal System operation, operating staff may remain in the operator compartment,
provided all other safety rules are obeyed and the System is in good health.
O4
O1
O6
O5
Depending on the specific ETL-40 configuration, different set of devices and accessories may be
supplied.
Please refer to the separate user manual provided with your System for detailed description of
each specific device.
Please refer to the separate user manual provided with your System for detailed description of
the time-domain reflectometer RIF-9.
C2
C1
C3 C5
C4
P3
P1 P4
P2 P5
HV unit switches
High-voltage compartment contains drums with cables, power leads, grounding cables, HV
outlets, etc.
WARNING
Hazardous voltage
During the System operation, high-voltage compartment must remain
isolated from access by any staff without exception.
H7 H9
H6
H8
H2
H3
H4
H5
H11
H12
H1
H10
The System can operate in high-voltage and low-voltage modes depending on the chosen test or
fault location technique. The connection process for both modes is described below.
WARNING
Hazardous voltage
All objects to be tested must be disconnected, de-energized and properly
isolated from all power sources before connecting the System to them.
WARNING
Never operate the System without protective earthing!
When connecting the OuT to the testing circuit, always connect the earth
cable to the grounding circuit FIRST. Once the test is finished, disconnect
the grounding cable from the object LAST.
WARNING
Hazardous voltage
Place an access restricting fencing around the OuT and display warning
posters. Make sure nobody is closer than 3 m to the OuT.
NOTICE
Connection diagrams and sequences below are given for reference purposes only. If connecting
the System to a different type of object to be tested, or if using different test procedure, please
observe all relevant and necessary safety regulations.
Warranty may be void if the System is damaged due to incorrect connection.
NOTICE
Never connect the System to an OuT using high-voltage and low-voltage connection method at
the same time. Doing so will permanently damage the System and may void the warranty.
The following figure shows an example of a simplified connection diagram to a multi-core cable
terminal at a substation. Such connection may be used for:
NOTICE
Never connect protective earthing cable (1.3.2 High-voltage compartment, pos. H5), screen of
the HV test cable (1.3.2 High-voltage compartment, pos. H4) and earthing control cable
(1.3.2 High-voltage compartment, pos. H10) together. Doing so may cause permanent damage to
the System.
HV8
HV7 HV1
HV2
HV6
HV5 HV9
HV4
HV3
Step Action
Disconnect and de-energize the object to be tested. For the duration of
connection process temporarily ground all conductive parts of the object to be
HV1 tested while observing all the health and safety rules.
If connecting to a multi-core cable, the core and a screen of each of the phases
that are not being tested must remain grounded for the duration of the test.
HV2 Earth the System.
The following figure shows an example of a simplified connection diagram to a multi-core cable
terminal at a substation. Such connection may be used for:
LV5
LV1
LV2
LV4
LV3
Step Description
Disconnect and de-energize the object to be tested. For the duration of
connection process temporarily ground all conductive parts of the object to be
LV1 tested while observing all the health and safety rules.
If connecting to a multi-core cable, the core and a screen of each of the phases
that are not being tested must remain grounded for the duration of the test.
Earth the System.
Every 5 meters along the KEP-10GCt protective earthing cable (1.3.2 High-
LV2 voltage compartment, pos. H5) there is a copper terminal. Screw a suitable
terminal to the protective earthing screw clamp (1.3.2 High-voltage
compartment, pos. H1).
Connect the end of the KEP-10GCt protective earthing cable (1.3.2 High-
LV3
voltage compartment, pos. H5) to a suitable point on a grounding busbar.
Connect the screen/low-voltage output of object to be tested to a suitable
point on the protective grounding busbar.
LV4 Connect the clamp of the screen of the low-voltage TDR cable (1.3.2 High-
voltage compartment, pos. H3) to the earthed screen/low-voltage output of the
object to be tested.
Connect the signal clamp of the low-voltage TDR cable (1.3.2 High-voltage
compartment, pos. H3) to the grounded core conductor of the object to be
LV5 tested.
Remove the temporary protective grounding from the core conductor of
object to be tested.
The System can operate in 5 distinct modes, designed for different types of testing and cable fault
location depending on the fault type and condition:
Operating modes
Used for DC testing of insulation of an OuT, while measuring the leakage
TEST
current and insulation resistance.
Allows to condition high-resistance or intermittent faults, occurring at
BURN high voltages only by permanently burning (destroying) cable insulation
in the point of a fault.
Acoustic cable fault pinpointing enables precise localisation of high-
SURGE impedance faults. Normally used in conjunction with surge wave
receiver/ground microphone (e.g. P-900).
Precise measurement of the distance to a fault with the ARC single shot /
ARC multi-shot reflection method (sending a high-voltage pulse into an
ARC
OuT which creates a flashover in the point of a fault and allows for the
reflectometer pulse to be reflected off this arc).
Used to measure the distance to a cable end/fault with the low voltage
reflectometry method when fault resistance < 200 Ω. This mode may also
TDR
be used for detecting and measuring the distance to cable joints, splices,
etc.
High-voltage terminals (1.3.2 High-voltage compartment, pos. H9) of the
System are grounded. This mode allows to discharge the System and/or
the OuT is it connected to.
Ω
Insulation test (500 V – V)
Fault classification
DC test
Determine breakdown voltage
Health test (DC, VLF)
Fault detected Fault pre-location and distance
measurement
Pinpointing
Precise localisation of the fault
TIP
When the “EMERGENCY STOP” button (1.3.1 Operator compartment, pos. C5) is pressed, menu
navigation on System control display (1.3.1 Operator compartment, pos. C1) is blocked and an
error message is displayed (see section 3.1 Safety and system errors for details).
There are 3 main places of System control – control unit, operating modes switch and time-
domain reflectometer RIF-9. Each is described in detail below.
The System control display (1.3.1 Operator compartment, pos. C1) shows menus and options
which may be navigated using rotary encoder knob (1.3.1 Operator compartment, pos. C3).
Turn the rotary encoder knob clockwise / counter-clockwise to navigate the menus or change the
values of currently selected fields. Short press the encoder knob to enter a menu, confirm the
selection or to apply a set value.
NOTICE
Never operate operating modes switch (1.3.1 Operator compartment, pos. O6) and/or surge
levels switch (1.3.1 Operator compartment, pos. O5) when a test is active (while the System
outputs high voltage) or when the System still has a residual charge after the test has been
terminated. Doing so may cause permanent damage to the System.
The System can operate in various modes as described in section 2.2 Operating modes overview.
Switching between the modes is achieved by turning the operating modes switch (1.3.1 Operator
compartment, pos. O6). Selecting a particular operating mode will bring up the corresponding
menu on the graphical display of the control unit (1.3.1 Operator compartment, pos. C1).
Please refer to the separate RIF-9 user manual provided with your System for detailed description
of the time-domain reflectometer.
To access the System setup menus set the operating modes switch (1.3.1 Operator compartment,
pos. O6) to the “ ” position. Main system setup screen will appear.
To select the interface language, from the main system setup screen select option
- "Language".
To set the date and time, from the main system setup screen select option - "Date/Time".
Software details
To view the information about the System’s software, from the main system setup screen select
option - "About".
NOTICE
When operating the System in “TEST” / “BURN” mode, the high-voltage connection method to
the OuT must be used. Please refer to section 2.1.1 High-voltage connection to make sure your
System is connected correctly.
In order to access “TEST” / “BURN” mode, set the operating modes switch (1.3.1 Operator
compartment, pos. O6) to the “TEST” position. Doing so will bring up the Test/Burn menu on the
graphical display of the control unit (1.3.1 Operator compartment, pos. C1).
T1 T6
T7
T2
T8
T3 T9
T10
T4
T11
T5
TIP
The output voltage in “TEST” and “BURN” modes is always adjusted in the full range, specified
for these modes, irrespective of the voltage stage selected by the surge levels switch
(1.3.1 Operator compartment, pos. O5).
Operating the surge levels switch (1.3.1 Operator compartment, pos. O5) during an active test in
“TEST” or “BURN” modes will have no effect on the System.
TIP
Testing voltage can be increased or decreased during an active test.
If the test timer (T5) is used, testing voltage cannot be changed during an active test.
TIP
When the System is in “TEST” / “BURN” mode, the reflectometer RIF-9 can be used in the
"DECAY" mode in order to measure a distance to a fault.
Please refer to the separate RIF-9 user manual provided with your System for detailed
description of time-domain reflectometer and “DECAY” mode in particular.
NOTICE
When operating the System in “SURGE” mode, the high-voltage connection method to the OuT
must be used. Please refer to section 2.1.1 High-voltage connection to make sure your System is
connected correctly.
In order to access “SURGE” mode, set the operating modes switch (1.3.1 Operator compartment,
pos. O6) to the “SURGE” position. Doing so will bring up the Surge menu on the graphical display
of the control unit (1.3.1 Operator compartment, pos. C1).
S1 S6
S7
S2
S8
S3 S9
S10
S4
S11
S5
• Automatic surge – the System will repeatedly and automatically trigger surges until
deactivated by an operator. This mode is especially effective when pinpointing cable
faults while walking along the cable with a surge receiver.
The mode is activated by setting a surge frequency (S5) between 5 s and 15 s in the surge
frequency setting menu (S10).
• Manual surge – in this mode the System will charge an internal capacitor and will wait
for an operator to manually trigger a surge pulse.
The mode is activated by setting a surge frequency (S5) to “Manual” in the Surge
frequency setting menu (S10), then navigating to the single surge trigger menu (S11) and
pressing encoder knob (1.3.1 Operator compartment, pos. C3) to trigger a pulse.
NOTICE
When in manual surge mode, avoid leaving the System charged at maximum selected voltage
level for more than 60 seconds, as doing so may significantly decrease the lifespan of the System.
TIP
The testing voltage can be increased or decreased during an active test.
If the test is run in an automatic mode, testing voltage cannot be changed during an active test.
TIP
It is not possible to trigger a single pulse in manual mode until the System is charged to the
selected surge voltage level.
TIP
The rate of System charge depends on the power, which may be drawn from a power supply. In
the automatic surge mode, the System will trigger the surges at an interval, selected in the surge
frequency setting menu (S10) regardless of whether the charge has reached the selected surge
voltage (S3) or not.
TIP
When the System is in “SURGE” mode, the reflectometer RIF-9 can be used in the "ICE" mode in
order to measure a distance to a fault.
Please refer to the separate user manual provided with your System for detailed description of
time-domain reflectometer RIF-9 and “ICE” mode in particular.
NOTICE
When operating the System in “ARC” mode, the high-voltage connection method to the OuT
must be used. Please refer to section 2.1.1 High-voltage connection to make sure your System is
connected correctly.
In order to access “ARC” mode, set the operating modes switch (1.3.1 Operator compartment, pos.
O6) to the “ARC” position. Doing so will bring up the ARC menu on the graphical display of the
control unit (1.3.1 Operator compartment, pos. C1).
A1 A5
A6
A2
A7
A3 A8
A4
A9
2. Enter surge voltage limit setting menu (A4). Doing so allows to set the maximum surge
voltage between 0 kV and the upper limit of the currently selected voltage level.
3. Press “START” button (1.3.1 Operator compartment, pos. C2) to initialise surging.
“START” button (C2) should stop illuminating green. High Voltage indicator (A6) should
indicate the the presence of High Voltage on the OuT. “STOP” button (1.3.1 Operator
compartment, pos. C4) should light up red. Output voltage indicator (S2) should show the
voltage increasing to the limit (A3).
4. Prepare RIF-9 to operate in “ARC” mode.
Please refer to the separate RIF-9 user manual provided with your System for detailed
description of the time-domain reflectometer.
5. When ready, enter the single surge trigger menu (A9) and press encoder knob
(1.3.1 Operator compartment, pos. C3) to trigger a pulse. Repeat this step as necessary to
get a good fault reading on the RIF-9.
6. When finished, press “STOP” button (1.3.1 Operator compartment, pos. C4) to terminate
the test.
TIP
It is not possible to trigger a single pulse in manual mode until the System is charged to the
selected surge voltage level.
NOTICE
When in manual surge mode, avoid leaving the System charged at maximum selected voltage
level for more than 60 seconds, as doing so may significantly decrease the lifespan of the System.
WARNING
TDR is a low-voltage mode. Before operating it, please make sure the
System and OuT are properly discharged.
TDR measurements are performed on dead and de-energized cables
only!
NOTICE
When operating the System in “TDR” mode, the low-voltage connection method to the OuT
must be used. Please refer to section 2.1.2 Low-voltage (TDR) connection to make sure your
System is connected correctly.
In order to access “TDR” mode, set the operating modes switch (1.3.1 Operator compartment, pos.
O6) to the “ ” position. Doing so will bring up the main system setup screen on the graphical
display of the control unit (1.3.1 Operator compartment, pos. C1).
Please refer to the separate RIF-9 user manual provided with your System for detailed description
of time-domain reflectometer and how to operate it in the TDR mode.
WARNING
Hazardous voltage
Dangerous voltage remains on capacitive load even after the System has
been turned off. Never assume that an object that has been subjected to a
test is safe to handle without using the necessary safety equipment and
grounding procedures. Always treat exposed connectors and conductors
as potential electric shock hazards.
D3
D4 D2
D9
D5
D6
D7
D8
Step Description
▪ Terminate any active test by pressing “STOP” button (1.3.1 Operator
compartment, pos. C4). Wait for the “START” button (1.3.1 Operator
compartment, pos. C2) to illuminate green;
▪ Press “EMERGENCY STOP” button (1.3.1 Operator compartment, pos.
D1 C5);
▪ Turn the operating modes switch (1.3.1 Operator compartment, pos.
O6) into “ ” position;
▪ Flip the automatic circuit breaker (1.3.1 Operator compartment, pos.
P5) into “OFF” position;
WARNING
Hazardous voltage
Never attempt to repair the System independently. This may lead to
warranty voiding, accidents and equipment damage. The only remedial
actions you can take independently are set out below.
The System is equipped with self-health and safety monitoring. Whenever an error is detected,
the message "Safety check" will appear on the graphical display of the control unit (1.3.1 Operator
compartment, pos. C1).
A complete list of errors, their description and suggested resolutions are listed below. When an
error is rectified, this will be reflected on the “Safety check” screen. When all errors are rectified,
the “Safety check” screen will automatically close.
In addition to the System errors, there may be other errors, which may be rectified by an end-
user.
NOTICE
Store the System indoors and keep the storage area dry. Keep away from fire, aggressive liquids,
acids and corrosive substances. Avoid any mechanical shock and direct sunlight.
Value
Climatic factor
Operation Storage
Ambient temperature range - 10 … + 50 ˚C -20 … + 60
up to 80 % (at + 25 ˚C),
Relative humidity, max
non-condensing
Atmospheric pressure 630 … 800 mmHg
WARNING
Hazardous voltage
Always turn off, disconnect and de-energize the System before performing
any maintenance.
NOTICE
Do not clean control panels and displays with oil containing solvents, e.g. acetone, white spirit
or petrol. Instead, use a soft tissue for cleansing or a microfiber cloth slightly dumped in alcohol
or mild cleaning solution.
NOTICE
ETL-40 is not an end-user serviceable system. Any repairs and service apart from regular care
must only be carried out by KharkovEnergoPribor Ltd. or authorised service personnel.
Routinely check controls, indicators, connectors, connecting cables and clamps of the System.
Inspect the system in regular manner and report any faults identified.
• Always work neat and keep the system clean. Wipe the system with clean and slightly
dump cloth. Do not use chemicals, oil containing solvents or abrasives.
• It is advisable to clean the test cables and its terminals after every test. Mild all-purpose
cleaning solution may be used to clean the cables.
• Regularly inspect the health of connection cables and terminals for any damages and loose
connections.
KharkovEnergoPribor Ltd. advises to carry out routine annual inspections of the system at
authorized service centre. Please contact our representative for further details.