Inspection and Maintenance
This section contains instructions for inspecting and maintaining SureSeT metal-clad indoor switchgear unit and devices. All safety precaution items stated below and throughout this user guide must be followed prior to working and throughout all procedures. Continue to treat the equipment per the instructions found in the section Moisture Contamination Avoidance and Mitigation until the equipment is under normal operation. This equipment does not achieve its ratings until it is installed per record/as-built drawings, installed per the instructions contained in this document, and has operational environmental controls with appropriate settings to help mitigate environmental influences.
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hazard of electric shock explosion, or arc flash
Failure to follow these instructions will result in death or serious injury.
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hazard of electric shock explosion, or arc flash
Failure to follow these instructions will result in death or serious injury.
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Perform inspection and maintenance according to the following intervals:
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For equipment without any digital health monitoring - perform maintenance every three (3) years or as operating conditions require. Perform circuit breaker compartment maintenance (refer to the Inspection and Maintenance on the Circuit Breaker Compartment) every 100 circuit breaker racking operations or every three (3) years, whichever occurs first, or as conditions require.
- For equipment with digital health monitoring - if the switchgear and circuit breakers are equipped with Level 4 digital health monitoring system options (TH110 sensors on the switchgear and circuit breaker, CL110 sensors, and e-gap, coil, charging motor, and speed sensors on the circuit breaker), then the maintenance period may be extended to occur every five (5) years or as operating conditions require.
- For equipment with MOCs installed in the breaker compartment(s) - maintenance must be performed on the MOC, at a minimum, according to the number of circuit breaker open and close operations in that compartment (as described in the related inspection and maintenance information in the Circuit Breaker Compartment).
This recommended frequency is for normal operating conditions and should be increased according to the severity of environmental conditions. Abnormal operation or conditions may require immediate corrective action. If operated beyond the normal service conditions, the equipment may be subject to accelerated aging. The equipment may only be used under conditions other than the normal service conditions with express written permission from Schneider Electric. If the switchgear or circuit breakers are equipped with digital health monitoring system options, then any alerts/warnings/ alarms from it should be immediately assessed and addressed accordingly.
During the inspections listed in this section, the inspector should look for damage, contaminants, or pollutants. When following proper procedure for lock-out and tag-out on the equipment for inspection and maintenance, refer to the section Product Description for further information on the following locks that can be applied:
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Blocking racking in a circuit breaker with a padlock or keylock (optional) on the right rail in the circuit breaker compartment (standard).
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Blocking racking in or racking out a circuit breaker with a padlock on the red push button located on the beam of the circuit breaker racking mechanism (standard).
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Blocking accidental tripping of a circuit breaker with a padlock on the cover over the red push button located on the beam of the circuit breaker racking mechanism (optional).
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Locking the circuit breaker compartment primary bus shutters closed with a padlock (standard).
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Locking the front door handles with a padlock or keylock (optional).
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Locking an auxiliary drawer in the disconnected position with a padlock on the floor of the compartment (optional).
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Locking a control power transformer drawer in the connected position with a padlock on the front of the drawer (optional).
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Blocking racking port with a padlock to block racking in or racking out an auxiliary drawer with racking system (optional).
Cleaning
Follow these practices when cleaning SureSeT equipment.
NOTICE |
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improper cleaning practices
Failure to follow these instructions can result in equipment damage.
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Main Bus Compartment
To perform inspection and maintenance on the main bus compartment, do the following:
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Remove the access covers from each main bus compartment.
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Inspect the busbars, primary contact supports, stand-off insulators, insulator bushing assembly, and insulating pass-through barrier(s) for damage.
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Remove the insulating boots from the bus joints and inspect all busbar connections. If required, torque all 1/2 inch bolts to 55 lb-ft (75 N•m). See the table Switchgear Bolt Torque Value.
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Clean the contact surfaces of the busbars and primary contact with a clean, dry, lint-free cloth.
NOTE: Slight discoloration or tarnishing of the silver plating may be normal and of no concern. Severe discoloration of the silver plating may be an indication of an improper or loose contact and overheating, harsh atmospheric conditions, or other environmental effects. If due to poor connection, correct the cause of severe discoloration before cleaning. For questions concerning cleaning, repairing, or replacing bus bars, contact the local Schneider Electric representative. -
Wipe off the insulation with a clean, dry, lint-free cloth.
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Vacuum the compartment to remove dust, spiderwebs, etc.
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Re-install and properly close all insulating bus joint boots. Remove all cut wire-tie ends.
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Replace the covers from each main bus compartment.
Rear Compartment
To perform inspection and maintenance on the rear compartment, do the following:
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Remove the removable rear compartment covers.
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Inspect the following for indications of damage or insulation deterioration:
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all busbar connections
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stand-off insulators
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primary contact supports
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insulator bushing assembly
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all accessible cable terminations
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If required, remove the insulating boots from the bus joints and inspect all busbar connections. If required, torque all 1/2 inch bolts to 55 lb-ft (75 Nm). See Switchgear Bolt Torque Value.
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If required, clean the contact surfaces of the busbars and primary contact with a clean, dry, lint-free cloth.
NOTE: Slight discoloration or tarnishing of the silver plating is normal and of no concern. Severe discoloration of the silver plating may be an indication of an improper or loose contact and overheating, harsh atmospheric conditions, or other environmental effects. If due to poor connection, correct the cause of severe discoloration before cleaning. For questions concerning cleaning, repairing, or replacing bus bars, contact the local Schneider Electric representative. -
Wipe off the insulation with a clean, dry, lint-free cloth.
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Vacuum the compartment to remove dust, spiderwebs, etc.
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If any boots were removed in order to torque busbar connections, reinstall and properly close all the insulating bus joint boots. Remove all cut wire-tie ends.
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Replace the removable rear compartment covers.
To replace a surge arrester (or lightning arrester (LA)) (see the figure Replacing a Surge Arrester):
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Enter through the rear compartment.
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Remove the surge arrester boot.
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Disconnect the primary connection at the top of the surge arrester.
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While supporting the surge arrester, unbolt it from the support pan.
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Remove the surge arrester from the compartment.
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Install the new surge arrester by following the steps above in reverse order
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Torque all fasteners as specified in the table Switchgear Bolt Torque Value.
A |
Boot |
C |
Surge arrester |
E |
Ground bus (located under support pan) |
B |
Primary connection (boot removed for clarity) |
D |
Support pan |
To replace a live line indicator (LLI) (see the figure Replacing a Live Line Indicator):
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Enter through the rear compartment.
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Remove the LLI boot.
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Disconnect the primary connection at the top of the LLI.
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While supporting the LLI, unbolt it from the support pan.
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Remove the LLI from the compartment.
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Install the new LLI by following the steps above in reverse order
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Torque all fasteners as specified in the table Switchgear Bolt Torque Value.
To replace a surge capacitor:
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Enter through the rear compartment.
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Disconnect all wring connections.
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While supporting the surge capacitor, unbolt it from the support pan.
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Remove the surge capacitor from the compartment.
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Install the new surge capacitor by following the steps above in reverse order
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Torque all fasteners as specified in the table Switchgear Bolt Torque Value.
To replace a zero sequence current transformer (ZSCT):
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Enter through the rear compartment.
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Disconnect all ZSCT wring connections.
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Disconnect the primary cable connections.
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While supporting the ZSCT, unbolt it from the support pan.
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Remove the ZSCT from the primary cables and compartment.
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Install the new ZSCT by following the steps above in reverse order
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Torque all fasteners as specified in the table Switchgear Bolt Torque Value.
Circuit Breaker Compartment
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If the circuit breakers are installed, withdraw each one from its compartment and thoroughly inspect each of the moving mechanisms in the compartment for damage and contamination/pollution.
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Inspect the shutter hardware and tighten if necessary. The shutters should raise and lower smoothly with no indication of binding, twisting, hesitation, obstruction, or hindrance.
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Inspect the stationary primary contacts (located inside bushings in the circuit breaker compartment). The stationary primary contacts should have a silver-gray appearance, indicating good contact with the circuit breaker primary contacts. Slight discoloration or tarnish of the silver plating on the primary contact is normal. Severe discoloration of the silver plating may be an indication of excessive heating and must be corrected. For questions on the contacts contact the local Schneider Electric representative. Typical causes of severe discoloration are:
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Poor contact between the circuit breaker finger cluster and the stationary primary contacts
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Loose hardware or otherwise improper contact at the riser bus connection
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Harsh atmospheric conditions or other environmental effects.
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If there are no overheating issues:
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Clean the stationary primary contacts with a clean, dry, lint-free cloth.
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Re-apply grease (see Switchgear Grease Information) to the stationary primary contacts in the area where the circuit breaker finger clusters make contact.
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Retighten the riser bus mounting bolts on the rear of the stationary primary contacts to the proper torque. See the table Switchgear Bolt Torque Value.
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Inspect the stationary primary contacts and support insulators for damage. Contact Schneider Electric if there is any damage.
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Inspect the ground bus contact bar. It should have visible signs of contact via tracks in the grease and marks on the bus indicating good contact with the circuit breaker sliding ground contact. Clean the contact surfaces, removing grease and dirt buildup. Inspect and tighten the hardware and re-grease along the entire length of the vertical flange of the ground bus contact bar with grease (see Switchgear Grease Information).
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Inspect the secondary disconnect receptacle, verifying the molding is free of cracks, the contact pin holes are clean, and the assembly is free to move. Clean the front and back surfaces of the receptacle to remove any contamination buildup.
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Vacuum the compartment to remove dust, spiderwebs, etc.
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Wipe off the primary contact high voltage insulating tubes of the bushing assembly and support insulation with a clean, dry, lint-free cloth.
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Lightly lubricate the moving primary and secondary contacts and fingers with grease (see Switchgear Grease Information).
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Lubricate all moving joints on the shutter mechanisms, TOC (if installed), and others with grease (see Switchgear Grease Information).
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Lubricate the path of the circuit breaker pin along the automatic discharge plate with grease (see Switchgear Grease Information).
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Check all terminal block connections for loose connections and crimps.
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Check all current transformer (CT) wires for loose connections and crimps. CT secondary terminal connections should have one brass plain washer, one bronze lock washer, and one brass nyloc nut for each #8-32 brass stud (see the figure Current Transformer Secondary Terminal Connection). The nyloc nut should be torqued to 18–21 in-lbs (2.0–2.3 N•m). Do not torque over the maximum of 21 in-lbs (2.3 N•m).
NOTE: The secondary wiring of the current transformers (CTs) should be shorted-out on the low voltage compartment CT terminal blocks prior to performing maintenance and un-shorted prior to re-energizing the switchgear. -
Check all CT mounting bolts for loose connections (see the figure Current Transformer Mounting Hardware). All CT mounting bolts (see the Figure Current Transformer Mounting Hardware) should be torqued to 7–10 ft-lbs (9.5–13.5 N•m) and Loctite 242 Removable Strength applied to clean threads of each bolt and threaded insert on bushing assembly. Do not torque over the maximum of 10 ft-lbs (13.5 N•m). If a CT must be replaced, hold the CT centered on the axis of the tube of the bushing and do not rest the weight of the CT on the tube of the bushing during removal or installation of the CTs. To replace the CT, the shutters will need to be fully open. Refer to the note at the beginning of the section and the figure Compartment Interlocks for shutter opening instructions.
NOTE: The secondary wiring of the current transformers (CTs) should be shorted-out on the low voltage compartment CT terminal blocks prior to performing maintenance and un-shorted prior to re-energizing the switchgear. -
If installed, check all MOC and TOC auxiliary switches for loose connections and crimps. All screws should be torqued to 9–12 in-lbs (1.0–1.3 N•m). Do not torque over the maximum of 12 in-lbs (1.3 N•m)
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If a MOC is installed, after the stated number of operations of a circuit breaker opening and closing it, contact the local Schneider Electric representative to perform the following required routine maintenance on the MOC unit in the circuit breaker compartment:
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after the first 6,000 cycles and every 5,000 cycles after - lubricate all moving contact surfaces and joints with grease (see Switchgear Grease Information).
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after every 10,000 cycles - replace the MOC welded plate and return spring (see Current Transformer Mounting Hardware).
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Make sure the hinge wiring to the door is not frayed and has no insulation damage.
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Make sure all wires are routed through the hinge loop.
Circuit Breakers
Consult the circuit breaker user guide for instructions on inspection, maintenance, cleaning, adjustment, and lubrication.
Refer to Schneider Electric document number JYT3013100, EvoPacT MV Vacuum Circuit Breaker for more information.
CPT and VT Compartment and Drawer
Follow these steps to perform inspection and maintenance procedures on CPTs and VTs:
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Pull the drawer onto extended extension rails to the fully removed position.
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Inspect the moving and stationary primary and secondary contacts and the static ground contacts. Inspect for any signs of burns or pit marks.
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Clean the contact surfaces with a clean, dry, lint-free cloth.
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Remove the insulating boots from the primary fuses, if installed. Visually inspect the primary current-limiting fuses for possible damage. While wearing personal protective equipment such as insulated gloves, a face shield, and other appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) per NFPA 70E, NOM-029-STPS-2011, or CSA Z462, remove each fuse by grasping the fuse near the fuse clip on the fuse cap and pulling while rotating the fuse. If unable to remove the fuse by hand, a flat head screwdriver may be used to gently pry between the fuse clip and the fuse cap to assist in removing. After one end of the fuse is out of the fuse clip, the other end should easily rotate out of the fuse clip.
NOTE: When removing or inserting fuses, handle the fuses carefully to avoid breakage. Do not grasp a fuse in the middle. Only apply force on the end of the fuse at the fuse cap area. If even one fuse is damaged, the cause should be identified and corrected, and all fuses in the drawer must be replaced. -
Once all fuses are removed, inspect the fuse clips and fuse contact surfaces.
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Inspect the transformer for indication of insulation deterioration.
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Check all hardware, including the secondary contact wiring terminals, for tightness. Refer to the torque values in the table Switchgear Bolt Torque Value.
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Vacuum the compartment and drawer to remove dust, spiderwebs, etc.
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Wipe off the auxiliary compartment and drawer insulation and the control power or voltage transformer with a clean, dry, lint-free cloth.
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Lightly lubricate the moving primary and secondary contacts and fingers with grease (see Switchgear Grease Information).
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Lubricate all shutter rollers and sliding parts with grease (see Switchgear Grease Information).
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Inspect all applicable interlock mechanisms in the auxiliary compartments for proper operation, i.e., CPT secondary circuit breaker interlock lever, padlock mechanisms, etc.
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Reinstall all the current-limiting fuses by inserting the fuses one end at a time into the fuse clips.
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If any insulating boots were removed, reinstall and properly close all boots. Remove all cut wire-tie ends.
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Leave the drawer in the removed position until all inspection and maintenance procedures are complete.
To replace the CPT, it is recommended to remove the CPT drawer from the extension rails and place on a secure working surface. Prepare and use a SureSeT lift truck to remove the auxiliary drawer from the auxiliary compartment. For instructions on using the lift truck, refer to the section SureSeT Circuit Breaker/Auxiliary Drawer Lift Truck. Then perform the following steps:
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Unbolt the polycarbonate barrier but do not remove.
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Disconnect the primary wiring connections from the CPT.
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Remove the fuse assembly and temporarily set aside.
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Remove the polycarbonate barrier and temporarily set aside.
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Disconnect all the secondary wiring connections from the CPT.
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Disconnect the ground wiring connection from the CPT.
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Unbolt the CPT from the drawer pan.
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Remove the CPT from the drawer using an appropriate lifting device.
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Install the new CPT by following the steps above in reverse order and applying proper torque to all fasteners per the table Switchgear Bolt Torque Value.
A |
3/8–16 x 1.25 in. SAE Grade 5 (minimum) hex head bolt with 3/8 in. Belleville (conical) washer |
C |
Primary current-limiting fuse insulating boots and fuse assembly |
E |
Secondary low voltage connections |
B |
Polycarbonate barriers |
D |
Primary high voltage connections |
F |
Ground connection |
To replace the VT, it is recommended to remove the VT drawer from the extension rails and place on a secure working surface. Prepare and use a SureSeT lift truck to remove the auxiliary drawer from the auxiliary compartment. For instructions on using the lift truck, refer to the section SureSeT Circuit Breaker/Auxiliary Drawer Lift Truck. Then perform the following steps:
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Remove the primary fuse insulating boot.
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While wearing personal protective equipment such as insulated gloves, a face shield, and other appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) per NFPA 70E, NOM-029-STPS-2011, or CSA Z462, remove each primary fuse by grasping the fuse near the rear fuse clip on the fuse cap and pulling while rotating the fuse. If unable to remove the fuse by hand, a flat head screwdriver may be used to gently pry between the fuse clip and the fuse cap to assist in removing. After one end of the fuse is out of the fuse clip, the other end should easily rotate out of the fuse clip.
NOTE: When removing or inserting fuses, handle the fuses carefully to avoid breakage. Do not grasp a fuse in the middle. Only apply force on the end of the fuse at the fuse cap area. If a fuse is damaged during removal/insertion, it must be replaced. -
Unbolt the primary fuse support tray.
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Disconnect the secondary wiring connections from the VT.
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Disconnect the ground wiring connection from the VT.
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Unbolt the VT from the drawer pan.
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Remove the VT from the drawer.
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Install the new VT by following the steps above in reverse order and applying proper torque to all fasteners per the table Switchgear Bolt Torque Value.
A |
Primary ground |
E |
Primary contacts |
I |
Ground connection |
B |
Primary fuse (boot not shown for clarity) |
F |
Primary fuse support tray |
J |
3/8–16 x 0.75 in. SAE Grade 5 (minimum) flanged hex head bolt |
C |
Primary fuse insulating boot |
G |
1/2–13 x 1 in. SAE Grade 5 (minimum) hex head bolt with 1/2 in. lock washer and 1/2 in. flat washer (~1.06 in. O.D.) |
K |
Secondary connection |
D |
Rear primary fuse clip |
H |
M10 x 1.5 x 20 mm Grade 10.9 (minimum) button head hex socket bolt with M10 Belleville (conical) washer (~0.84 in. O.D.) |
Low Power Voltage Transformers (LPVTs)
Follow these steps to perform inspection and maintenance procedures on LPVTs :
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Enter through the compartment below the LPVT compartment and remove the access panel to the LPVTs (see the figure LPVT Compartment).
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Inspect the LPVT and wiring.
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Inspect the insulating boots and auxiliary bushings for indication of insulation deterioration.
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Check all hardware, including both ends of the primary connection wiring, for tightness. Refer to torque values in the table Switchgear Bolt Torque Value.
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Vacuum out the compartment to remove dust, spiderwebs, etc.
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Wipe off the insulation and LPVTs with a clean, dry, lint-free cloth.
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Reinstall insulating boots and the access panel.
To replace an LPVT (see the figure LPVT Compartment):
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Enter through the compartment below the LPVT compartment and remove the access panel to the LPVTs.
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Remove the insulating boot on the LPVT.
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Disconnect the primary connection from the top of the LPVT.
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Disconnect the LPVT secondary cable from the low voltage instrumentation compartment wiring.
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While supporting the LPVT, unbolt it from the LPVT support pan.
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Remove the LPVT and its secondary cable from the compartment.
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Install the new LPVT by following the steps above in reverse order and applying proper torque to all fasteners per the table Switchgear Bolt Torque Value.
Re-energizing
To re-energize the equipment, perform the following steps:
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Insert all the circuit breakers in each section to the test/disconnected position.
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Engage the top secondary disconnect receptacles for circuit breaker power and control into the circuit breaker plugs in the test/disconnected position.
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Remove the ground from the main and feeder circuits. Make sure all insulating boots are properly closed.
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Install and bolt all rear compartment covers.
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Connect and close the control power source.
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Operate each circuit breaker electrically in the test/disconnected position.
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If all controls are functioning properly, disconnect the top secondary disconnect receptacles and push each of the receptacles back to the latched, circuit breaker racked-in position.
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Properly close and latch all front compartment doors (refer to the section Front Compartments (Circuit Breaker/Auxiliary/LV) Door Operation).
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Rack the circuit breakers into the connected position.
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Energize the incoming high voltage circuits.
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Electrically close the main circuit breaker, then the feeder breakers, and then turn on loads one at a time and resume normal operation.