Index

Neutral earthing resistors and transformers

SECTION 6 Neutral earthing resistors and transformers

Introduction Neutral earthing resistors

Network class NERs Distribution class NERs Neutral current transformers CT terminal box Packing and transport Voltages Characteristics

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Neutral earthing transformers

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Introduction
Neutral earthing resistors (NERs)

SECTION 6 Neutral earthing resistors and transformers

We manufacture two basic types of neutral earthing resistor in our New Zealand factory: Transmission class NERs c as supplied for transmission networks, and critical applications, and Distribution class NERs c as supplied for distribution networks, and less critical applications.

General
Neutral earthing resistors are designed to limit the current flow to earth under fault conditions. This NER limited fault current is low enough to prevent damage to the generating, distribution and other associated equipment yet high enough to operate fault clearing relays. Our New Zealand NERs enclosures are manufactured to our type designs to meet New Zealand seismic and structural standards. These type designs have been analysed and approved for seismic and structural strength by consultant structural engineers. Each NER consists of a single main enclosure arranged for the HV connection via a bushing and the LV connection internally.

Two types of HV arrangement are available: either with a top mounted bushing projecting above the roof of the NER for aerial cable connection, or with a side mounted bushing within an HV cable box for underground cable termination. The resistor banks are mounted in the enclosures with support and inter bank insulators. All internal electrical connections between the banks and the bushings are made with copper or stainless steel bar and stainless steel bolts. A section of mesh in the floor allows entry of cooling air while the roof lip allows the heat to exhaust. The enclosures have 200mm high legs that allow free movement of cooling air up through the floor mesh into the NER. The legs are reinforced to allow for seismic forces and normal freight handling. Pads on the bottom of the feet allow the NER to be bolted down onto a suitable level foundation provided by the customer.

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Neutral earthing resistors (NERs)

Network class NERs Distribution class NERs Neutral current transformers CT terminal box
SECTION 6 Neutral earthing resistors and transformers

Network class NERs

Our transmission class NERs a designed and built for critical applications requiring a relatively robust NER. These NERs include an enclosure consisting of a mild steel welded angle frame galvanised after machining and welding, and clad in stainless steel panels and roof. These NERs typically use solid stainless steel edge wound resistor elements which are manufactured in the UK to approved designs by our principals. These resistor elements are welded and tested before despatch, and we import them as assemblies, or banks. The NER enclosures are manufactured in New Zealand and the complete NER is assembled in our Christchurch Works. The NERs complete resistor consist of multiple banks connected in series or parallel as necessary to achieve the assigned ratings. The elements are of the oval edge wound type. The coils are manufactured from a continuous stainless steel strip wound edge wise into elliptical coils. Each coil is mounted on a stainless steel centre core with porcelain insulation. Stainless steel terminals are welded to each end. This arrangement allows free expansion and contraction with temperature change without imposing strain on the assembly. The resistance alloy used is a high temperature stainless steel with 13% chrome and 4% aluminium content. This alloy is able to withstand temperature excursions up to 1000C while retaining its strength. The banks are high pot tested to meet the requirements of IEEE 32-1972 section 10 prior to despatch from the UK.

Distribution class NERs

Our distribution class NERs a designed and built for less critical applications requiring a relatively economic NER. These NERs include an enclosure consisting of a mild steel welded angle frame galvanised after machining and welding, and clad in aluminium panels and roof. These NERs typically use RL style nickel-chromium stainless steel alloy resistor elements. In addition, the resistor elements and banks used in our distribution class NERs are generally of a lighter construction to those used in our transmission class NERs, described above. The resistor elements are welded and tested before despatch, and we import them as assemblies, or banks. The NER enclosures are manufactured in New Zealand and the complete NER is assembled in our Christchurch works.

Neutral current transformers

Where specified by the customer neutral current transformers (NCTs) are provided. These are normally ring type transformers connected at the earth end of the resistor. The earth end cable to the resistor normally provides the primary bar for the NCT. Alternatively, especially if there is more than one NCT, a copper bar with suitable bolted links and supported by stand-off insulators may be provided for the primary through the ring-type NCT(s). Core details are supplied to customer requirements and are detailed on the drawing. The NCT is normally housed inside the main enclosure, clamped in position, in one corner near the resistors earth terminal. Access to the NCT is via one of the main enclosure removable side panels.

CT terminal box
Where there are NCTs, a suitably sized small weather proof box with hinged door is provided to house the CT terminal blocks. The NCT secondaries are cabled to these terminals via trunking. For our transmission class NERs, this CT terminal box is normally a stainless steel CRSX type with an IP65 rating. For our distribution class NERs, this CT terminal box is normally a polyester PLM type with an IP66 rating.

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Neutral earthing resistors (NERs)

Packing and transport Voltages Characteristics
SECTION 6 Neutral earthing resistors and transformers

Packing and transport

Each resistor consists of a cubicle or cubicles with dimensions as shown on the relevant drawings issued for the project. The resistors are fully assembled in the works with all internal connections and bar work completed prior to testing. External bushings, if used, may be removed to prevent damage during transport and installation. The NER enclosures are wrapped in protective material to prevent damage to surface panels during handling and storage. The NERs are provided with four lifting eye bolts on each top corner for lifting with a crane, hoist or hiab. Alternatively a forklift can be used, lifting under the base. The forks must be long enough to reach both sides so weight is not carried on the floor or mesh. Please note that the NERs must be kept upright at all times. Damage is likely to the frame or insulators if they are tipped or laid on their sides.

Voltages

We are able to supply NERs for virtually any power system voltage. We have supplied NERs for 11kV, 22kV, 33kV, and 66kV systems most recently.

Characteristics
Please specify the following characteristics when requesting an NER offer: c power system voltage, for the neutral to be earthed, c continuous current, if any, normally flowing in the neutral, with resistor connected, c neutral fault current, with resistor connected, c duration in seconds of the fault current, c resistance required, at ambient temperature, before the onset of fault current, c transmission or distribution class type NER required. Please contact us to discuss your specific requirements.

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Neutral earthing transformers (NETs)

Neutral earthing transformers (NETs) BC Transformateurs

SECTION 6 Neutral earthing resistors and transformers

Neutral earthing transformers (NETs)

NETs for indoor applications. These units are imported from our principals in France and are indoor dry type (cast resin) type neutral earthing transformers. If your application calls for an outdoor installation we may be able to provide you with a weather proof cubicle or enclosure with a suitable IP rating and thermal rating to satisfy your projects requirements. Please contact us to discuss your specific requirements.

BC Transformateurs
Our principal for the supply of Neutral Earthing Transformers is BC Transformateurs, a company of Schneider Electric since 1983, with two factories in France. Please see section 11 for more information about these specialty transformers.

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Notes

SECTION 6 Neutral earthing resistors and transformers

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