Medium Voltage Switching Devices

VAH

Heavy-duty vacuum circuit-breaker 12 kV to 17.5 kV

Assembly
Operation
Maintenance
No. AGS 531 271-01
Edition 08/2011

www.schneider-electric.com
Manufacturer:
Schneider Electric Sachsenwerk GmbH

Rathenaustrasse 2

D-93055 Regensburg

Germany

( +49 (0) 9 41 46 20-0

7 +49 (0) 9 41 46 20-418

Service:
Schneider Electric Sachsenwerk GmbH

Rathenaustrasse 2

D-93055 Regensburg

Germany

( +49 (0) 9 41 46 20-0

7 +49 (0) 9 41 46 20-418

VAH Contents

Remarks on this manual ............................................................................. 4

Purpose and target group........................................................................................... 4

Reference documents ................................................................................................ 4

Terms and symbols used............................................................................................ 4

Abbreviations used ..................................................................................................... 4

Any questions or suggestions?................................................................................... 4

1 Safety Provisions .............................................................................. 5

2 Technical details................................................................................ 6

2.1 Dimensions ..................................................................................................... 6

2.2 Applied standards ........................................................................................... 6

2.3 Environmental and operating conditions ......................................................... 6

2.4 Nameplate....................................................................................................... 7

2.5 Control and actuation units ............................................................................. 8

2.6 Intended use ................................................................................................. 10

2.7 Disposal after the end of service life ............................................................. 10

3 Overview of variants VAH............................................................... 11

4 Delivery, Storage and Transport .................................................... 13

4.1 Delivery ......................................................................................................... 13

4.2 Storage.......................................................................................................... 13

4.3 Transport of the circuit-breaker ..................................................................... 13

5 Assembly ......................................................................................... 14

5.1 Before installation.......................................................................................... 14

5.2 Fixing the circuit-breaker in place ................................................................. 14

5.3 Fitting the partitions....................................................................................... 16

5.4 Interlocking further units................................................................................ 16

5.5 Connecting the busbars ................................................................................ 17

5.6 Earth connection ........................................................................................... 18

5.7 Connecting the control cables....................................................................... 19

6 Commissioning ............................................................................... 20

6.1 Final steps..................................................................................................... 20

6.2 Checking switching functions and interlocks................................................. 20

7 Operation ......................................................................................... 21

7.1 Operator interface and operating elements................................................... 21

7.2 Charging the energy storing device .............................................................. 22

7.3 Switching operations ..................................................................................... 22

7.4 Fan attachment ............................................................................................ 23

8 Maintenance..................................................................................... 24

8.1 Safety provisions........................................................................................... 24

8.2 Maintenance schedule .................................................................................. 25

8.3 Cleaning insulating components ................................................................... 26

8.4 Corrosion protection...................................................................................... 27

8.5 Condensation ................................................................................................ 27

8.6 Replacement of components ........................................................................ 27

8.7 Greasing the circuit-breaker pole and drive mechanisms ............................. 27

8.8 Maximum admissible numbers of breaking operations of vacuum chamber 31

9 Annex ............................................................................................... 33

9.1 Accessories................................................................................................... 33

9.2 Auxiliary products.......................................................................................... 33

9.3 Treatment of firmly screw-connected contact surfaces ................................. 33

9.4 Specifications for screw connections ............................................................ 34

AGS 531 271-01 | Edition 08/2011 3

VAH Remarks on this manual

As our products are subject to continuous further development, we reserve the right
to make changes regarding standards, illustrations and technical data.
All dimensions specified in this manual are in millimeters.

Purpose and target group

This Technical Manual describes transport, assembly, operation and maintenance
of the series VAH vacuum circuit-breakers. It is exclusively intended for specialist
electricians who have been certified for the VAH series (training certificate).
This Technical Manual is an integral part of the product and must be kept accessible
at all times to persons performing assembly, operation of or maintenance on the
circuit-breaker. If the circuit-breaker is sold to new owners, they must receive this
document along with the switching device.
This Technical Manual cannot describe every imaginable individual case or every
customer-specific version of the product. For information which is not included in this
manual, please contact the manufacturer.

Reference documents
The following additional Purchase agreement with the stipulations regarding the switch-specific equip-
documents must be complied ment and the legal details
with: Switch-specific circuit diagrams and documentation
Project notes regarding the VAH circuit breaker
For assembly and operation of the circuit-breaker, the operating manual of the
switchgear in which it is operated must be complied with.

Terms and symbols used

This manual uses certain terms and symbols. They warn about dangers or provide
important information which must be complied with at all costs so as to avoid danger
and damage:

"Danger!"
This danger symbol warns about dangerous electrical voltage.
Contact with voltage may result in fatal injury!

"Warning!"
This danger symbol warns about the risk of injury. Please comply
with all the provisions identified by this symbol in order to avoid
death or serious injury.

"Important:"
This instruction symbol is used for information which is important to
avoid material damage.

Abbreviations used
U r: Rated voltage
Ir: Rated current
Isc: Rated short-circuit breaking current

Any questions or suggestions?

Do you have any questions or suggestions regarding this manual, or do you require
further information?
We always strive to provide you with the best-possible information for optimum, safe
use of our products. Thus, do not hesitate to contact us if you have any recommen-
dations, amendments or proposals for improvement.

4 AGS 531 271-01 | Edition 08/2011

VAH 1 Safety Provisions

The work described in this manual may only be performed by specialist electricians
who have proved their experience with the VAH series and the applicable safety
provisions.
Please read the whole manual carefully before working on the circuit-breaker.

Applicable standards Common specifications for high-voltage switchgear and controlgear: IEC
and regulations: 62271-1
The locally applicable accident prevention, operating and work instructions
must be complied with.
Installation: IEC 61936-1/HD 637 S11
Operation of electrical equipment: EN 50110-11
1
The national standards applicable in the country where the equipment is to be
installed must be complied with.

Before performing work on the circuit-breaker, it is essential that you comply with the
following instructions:

Danger!

Risk of fatalities due to high voltage. Isolation from high voltage

and earthing must always be ensured before performing assembly

or maintenance work.

Danger!

Risk of fatalities due to high supply voltage. Isolation from supply

voltage must always be ensured before performing assembly or

maintenance work.

Warning!

Risk of injury due to movable parts in mechanical drives. For

maintenance work,

isolate from supply voltage

release the circuit-breaker's energy storing device by switching
it OFF-ON-OFF

Behaviour in case of incidents or In case of fire or of internal faults, toxic and caustic decomposition products may be
accidents produced. Comply with the locally applicable accident and safety provisions.
In case of personal injury, take first-aid measures or cause them to be taken.

AGS 531 271-01 | Edition 08/2011 5

VAH
Series VAH circuit-breakers are:
Type approval of vacuum
interrupter chambers
acc. to RV
6 AGS 531 271-01 | Edition 08/2011
2 Technical details
2.1 Dimensions
The dimensions of the individual VAH variants are specified in the selection list
"Vacuum Circuit Breaker type VA, VAA, VAH, VXA, VXB, VXC".
This document or additional customized dimensional drawings are available on
request.
2.2 Applied standards
type-tested
dimensioned for indoor installation
corresponds to the requirementsfor AC switchgear for voltages above 1 kV acc.
to IEC 62271-100;
complies, regarding its switching capacity and insulating level, with ANSI C37....
(please enquire at the manufacturer's).
The vacuum interrupter chambers have been approved by the X-Ray Ordinance
(RV) of the Federal Republic of Germany up to a maximum voltage amounting to
the rated short-time power-frequency voltage (rated power frequency withstand volt-
age) defined by DIN VDE/IEC. Thus, they satisfy the conditions for operation exempt
of approval up to the voltage in question according to the X-Ray Ordinance (RV).
2.3 Environmental and operating conditions
VAH circuit-breakers may only be operated under normal operating conditions acc.
to IEC 62271-1. Operation under conditions deviating from these is only admissible
upon consultation with and with the written approval of the manufacturer.
Ambient conditions in accordance with IEC 62271-1
Temperature class "Minus 5 indoors1
Min./max. ambient temperature C 5/+401
Average value over 24 hours C 351
mean rel. air humidity: 24 hour/1 month % 95/ 90
Installation altitude above sea-level m 10001
1
other values available on request
VAH 2 Technical details

2.4 Nameplate
The type designation on the nameplate (Fig. 1, item 1) specifies essential technical
data.

1 3

Fig. 1
Nameplate
1 Type designation
2 Technical data
3 Year of construction
4 Serial number

The following example shows the composition of the type designation:

VAH 17 - 63 - 50 - 40

Series VAH

Rated Voltage Ur = 17 kV

Rated short-circuit breaking current Isc = 63 kA

Rated normal current Ir = 5000 A

Pole center spacing 400 mm

When submitting enquiries to the manufacturer or ordering spare parts, the following
information is required:
Type designation
Serial number
Year of construction

AGS 531 271-01 | Edition 08/2011 7

VAH 2 Technical details

2.5 Control and actuation units

The drive is basically designed as well for manual tensioning of the energy-storing
device (make spring).
The drive may be equipped with further control and actuation units.
Push switch S21 - S25
actuated by the energy-storing device.
Auxiliary switches S1
are actuated by the switch shaft. The switching positions of the switch
elements are dependent on the switch status "Make" and "Break" of the
circuit-breaker.
12 / 16 / 20 pole versions may be supplied.
They are set in compliance with the wiring diagram. Refer to Fig. 3, page 9
regarding other settings.
A number of switch elements are reserved for internal breaker-control.
Shunt opening releases F11-F12
Shunt closing release F2
Blocking coil Y1
Blocking coils prevent the circuit breaker from being closed and opened
via the push-buttons ON or OFF, as well as manual actuation of the
disconnector truck.
If the rated supply voltage has failed or is shut off, all blocking coils are in
"blocked" position.
Push switches S41 - S43
S41 and S42 actuated by the button "Make" and "Break"
S43 actuated by the button "Break"
Motor M1
for tensioning the energy-storing device (closing spring)
Anti-pumping relay (K01)
If an ON and OFF command is simultaneously and permanently present
at the circuit-breaker, the latter returns to its initial position after closing. It
remains in this initial position until the ON command is issued again. This
prevents continuous closing and opening (pumping).
Terminal strip (X01)
Information about the power consumption of coils and the motor is available from the
manufacturer.
To this effect, the auxiliary voltage data is required.

Power consumption of magnet

Magnet coils / motor Power consumption [W]
coils and motor:
Shunt closing release 160

Shunt opening release ca. 50

Under-voltage release without time delay 15

CT powered release 12

Blocking magnet 12

Motor 200-250

Motor tensioning time 12 s

8 AGS 531 271-01 | Edition 08/2011

VAH 2 Technical details

Auxiliary switches The switching functions are set in the factory in accordance with the LV wiring draw
ings.
Other functions of the auxiliary switch may be set by means of adjustable cams.

Setting procedure: 1. Set circuit-breaker to "Break";

energy-storing device detensioned.
2. Remove cover plate (loosen five screws).
3. Set desired switch function.
4. Latch cam in the driver again.
5. Check whether or not the cam has latched in the changed position.
6. Replace cover plate on completion of settings.

Cam

Viewingdirection
forsetting

Fig. 2
Setting the cams of the auxiliary switch

Positionofcamsfor
settingprocedure circuitbreaker
circuitbreakerBreak Breake Make
Advanced
break
contact
Delayed
make
contact

Advanced
make
contact
Delayed
break
contact

Wiper

Auxiliaryswich
made

Fig. 3

Possible switching functions of auxiliary switch (switching programm)

Technical Data
VDC VAC
Rated supply voltage
[V] 24 48 60 110 220 120 230
Switching capacity [A] 8 4 3 2 1 10
Short-circuit level 100 A for a time period of 30 ms
Time constant T=L/R [ms] 20
Rated continuous current [A] 10

AGS 531 271-01 | Edition 08/2011 9

VAH 2 Technical details

2.6 Intended use

Series VAH vacuum circuit-breakers are exclusively intended as switching units in
air-insulating medium-voltage switchgear. They may only be used in the scope of the
specified standards and the switchgear-specific technical data. Any other utilization
constitutes improper use and may result in dangers and damage.

Liability Disclaimers
The manufacturer shall not be held responsible for damage which occurs if
instructions in this manual are not complied with,
the circuit-breaker is not operated according to its intended use (see above)
the circuit-breaker is assembled, connected or operated improperly,
accessories or spare parts are used which have not been approved by the
manufacturer,
the circuit-breaker is converted without the manufacturers approval, or if inad
missible parts are attached.

2.7 Disposal after the end of service life

A material and recycling data sheet is available for disposal of the vacuum circuit-
breaker unit VAH at the end of its service life; this can be provided on request.
Disposal is performed by the manufacturers Service Center as a service subject to
a fee.

10 AGS 531 271-01 | Edition 08/2011

VAH 3 Overview of variants VAH

Fig. 4 Fig. 5
Heavy-duty vacuum circuit-breaker VAH, Heavy-duty vacuum circuit-breaker VAH,
1250 A 1250 A on transport cassette

Fig. 6 Fig. 7
Heavy-duty vacuum circuit-breaker VAH, Heavy-duty vacuum circuit-breaker VAH,
4000 A 4000 A on transport cassette

AGS 531 271-01 | Edition 08/2011 11

VAH 3 Overview of variants VAH

854

673 275 275

501
1816

Fig. 8

Heavy-duty vacuum circuit-breaker VAH, 8000 A with fan attachment

Fig. 9

Generator circuit-breaker VAH 17-63-50-40 meets the requirements of IEEE C37.013

12

12 AGS 531 271-01 | Edition 08/2011

VAH 4 Delivery, Storage and

Transport

4.1 Delivery
Handle shipping units carefully when unloading and unpacking them
Shipping units must be unpacked immediately after receipt. The insurance com
pany must be notified immediately about any damage occurred in transit
On delivery, the consignment must be checked for completeness.
The manufacturer must be notified in writing about any discrepancies.

4.2 Storage
The transport packaging is not intended for storage. The risk of storing the parts in
packed condition shall be the consignee's responsibility!

4.3 Transport of the circuit-breaker

Warning!
Make sure the crane mounting harness is strong enough to bear
the weight of the circuit-breaker!

Transport using a forklift truck:

Only transport the circuit-breaker on a pallet.
Transport without pallet:
on transport cassette according to Fig. 5 on page 11.
The circuit-breaker is lifted as shown in the drawing on the right. To this
effect, a crane mounting harness is required.

Fig. 10
Transport
Weights
Rated current [A] 1250 4000
Weight 1
[kg] 200 500
1
The weights of the vacuum circuit-breaker VAH are approximate and include neither packing
nor transport cassette.

AGS 531 271-01 | Edition 08/2011 13

VAH 5 Assembly

5.1 Before installation

Dimensional drawings are supplied on request.
Check the technical data on the name plate.
Check auxiliary voltage of the incorporated control and actuation units.
The circuit-breaker is delivered in the position "Broken" and energy-storing device
"detensioned".

Warning!
Do not tension the energy-storing device before completing in-
stallation. Danger of injuries.

Warning!
Comply with the safety provisions in Chapter 1, page 5!

5.2 Fixing the circuit-breaker in place

Switching devices for direct attachment:
Fastening points are provided at the ends of the insulator
supports with predefined hole positions (Fig. 11).
In the event of an installation position (service position) differing from the
standard, harmonise installation position with the manufacturer.
The circuit-breaker must not be distorted by the fastening.
Screws and fitting parts are not supplied with the breaker.

Important:
Comply with the tightening torques specified for screw-fastening (refer
to Chapter 9 "Annex" as of page 33).

The circuit-breakers are supplied with fitted crane hooks.

Important:
After attachment the crane hooks must be removed.

max.30
M10

max.20
max.
70

max.10
max.30
378
max.
70
40
140

Fig. 11
Examples for fixing

14 AGS 531 271-01 | Edition 08/2011

VAH 5 Assembly

Fig. 12
Crane hooks (remove after fitting the breaker)

Switching devices on transport cassette:

Four drilled holes diam. 18 mm each are provided in the transport cassette
for fastening on the floor or on rails.

100

570

Fig. 13
1 Fastening points in the transport cassette

AGS 531 271-01 | Edition 08/2011 15

VAH 5 Assembly

5.3 Fitting the partitions

Fit two brackets on the supporting plate (centre switch pole) using 2 x M10
plastic screws.
Screw partitions onto brackets using 2 x M10 plastic screws.
In the case of double partitions, screw on 2nd partition at four places using
plastic disc spacers.

Important:
Comply with the tightening torques specified for screw-fastening (refer
to Chapter (refer to Chapter 9.4 on page 34).

M10
M10

Fig. 14
Attachment of partitions
1 Bracket
2 Plastic diskrennwandanbau

5.4 Interlocking further units

If, dependent on the position of the circuit-breaker, other devices shall be interlocked
or controlled, it must be borne in mind that the masses and forces acting for inter
locking purposes do not influence the switching behaviour of the circuit-breaker.
Please consult manufacturer.

16 AGS 531 271-01 | Edition 08/2011

VAH 5 Assembly

5.5 Connecting the busbars

Connection surfaces are surfaces for the passage of current. Material of the con
nection surfaces on the heavy-duty circuit-breaker:
silver-plated copper.

Warning!

Aluminium busbars must never be connected to silver-plated

connection surfaces of the heavy-duty vacuum circuit-breaker.

Inadmissible matching of materials.

Take into consideration DIN 43 671 as regards the rating of continuous current.
Operators outside Germany should apply the relevant local regulations.
Maximum spacing from the nearest support point of the connections of the
circuit-breaker towards the switch pole axis:
at rated short-circuit breaking current 50 kA = 825 mm (3 x pole center
spacing).
at rated short-circuit breaking current 63 kA = 500 mm.

If the nearest supporting point is not situated in the direction of the breaker pole axis,
care must be taken that no higher current forces act on the circuit-breaker switch
pole.

Important:
Coat contact surfaces (refer to Chapter 9.3, page 33).
Comply with the tightening torques specified for screw-fastening
(refer to Chapter 9.4, page 34).

Make busbar bolt and screw connections in compliance with DIN 43 673.

The heavy-duty vacuum circuit-breaker must not be distorted by screwing on the

busbars.
Busbar cross-sections for
Rated current [A] Minimum busbar cross section Material

connection to the heavy-duty [mm2]

vacuum circuit-breaker VAH

4000 Connection as DIN 43 671 Copper
> 4000 4000 Copper
5000 - 80001 8000 Copper
1
with ventilator set

1
1

1
1 1
Fig. 15
1 Busbar connection

AGS 531 271-01 | Edition 08/2011 17

VAH 5 Assembly

5.6 Earth connection

(Connect station earth to the earth connection of the circuit-breaker.)
Choose cross-section and material of the earth conductor in compliance with
DIN VDE 0141 or national installation specification.

Important:
Coat contact surfaces (refer to Chapter 9.3, page 33 ).
Comply with the tightening torques specified for screw-fastening
(refer to Chapter 9.4, page 34).

Protective earthing may also be established through the fastening screws in the
profile of the rear plates of the drive cabinet if galvanised ratchet screws are
used as fastening screws whose ratchet penetrates the varnish.
Admissible thermally active short- time current per ratchet screw M12: 4 kA (1 s);
2.7 kA (3 s).
Screw connections M12

Drive cabinet

M12
95 115
Fig. 16
Earth connection on heavy-duty vacuum circuit-breaker (steel)

500

M12

Fig. 17
Earth connection on transport cassette (steel)

18 AGS 531 271-01 | Edition 08/2011

VAH 5 Assembly

5.7 Connecting the control cables

Connection by means of (Fig. 18):
plug or
terminal strip in the drive cabinet.

Fig. 18
External control cables
1 Opening for control and auxiliary cables
2 Plug alternatively Externe Steuerleitungen

On connection by terminal strip

deinstall cover plate (five screws).
connect the external control cables through the terminal strip and lay them to
the outside through the opening in the drive cabinet.
The following may be connected:
flexible wires up to 1.5 mm2 (only on connection by plug)
solid single wires up to 2.5 mm2.
The binding wiring diagram is situated as adhesive circuit diagram on the inner side
of the cover plate.
If additional control cables are installed in the drive cabinet, sufficient spacing to
moving parts of the drive must be provided.
Reinstall cover plate after the external control cables have been connected.

Important:
Comply with the tightening torques specified for screw-fastening (refer
to Chapter 9.4 on page 34).

AGS 531 271-01 | Edition 08/2011 19

VAH 6 Commissioning

6.1 Final steps

Danger!
Risk of fatalities due to high voltage. All active parts must be
earthed.

Checking assembly Check securing bolts.

Check the conductor bars screw connections using a torque wrench.
Check the screw connections of the earth terminal.
Check wiring laid on site.

Damaged paint Minor damage to the paint can be repaired using a commercially available touch-up
pen (standard colour RAL 7044 or corresponding colour) (see Chapter 9.2 Auxiliary
products on page 33).

Inspection Check the circuit-breaker for damage which might be due to transport or as
sembly work.
Compare the data on the nameplate (see Chapter 2.4 on page 7) to the re
quired rating specifications.
Check rated supply voltage of control and operating devices.
Check surfaces of insulating components for impurities. If necessary, clean (see
Chapter 8.3 on page 26).

6.2 Checking switching functions and interlocks

Danger!
The high-voltage supply must not be connected. All active parts
must be earthed.

Important:
For switching operations, comply with Chapter 7 Operation as of
page 21.
In case supply voltage is not available,
blocking coils (optional; lock circuit-breaker button in discon
nected position) are in locked position, thus blocking manual
switching operations;
there is a dropped-out undervoltage release in the circuit-
breaker (optional).
The energy-storing device of the circuit-breaker drive is charged
autonomously as soon as the supply voltage is applied.

1. Charge energy-storing device using the crank.

Check the spring position indicator.
2. Switch circuit-breaker on and off several times by hand.
Check position indicator.
3. Check electrical functions of control and operating devices.
Apply auxiliary voltage
Perform switching operations and check for proper working order and the
function of the interlocks by actuating the shunt release.
Watch position indicator.
4. Check interlocks between circuitbreaker and other devices.

20 AGS 531 271-01 | Edition 08/2011

VAH 7 Operation

7.1 Operator interface and operating elements

2 7

Fig. 19
Operating elements
1 Name plate
2 Position indicator, energy-storing device (charged / released)
3 ON button
4 OFF button
5 Operating counter
6 Opening for crank to charge the enrgy-storing device
7 Position indicator ON / OFF

Position indicators on circuit-breaker and possible operating sequences

Pos. Position indicator Position indicator Opening spring Possible operating

sequence
Energy-storing device ON/OFF ("Close/
(Closing spring) Trip")
Switch position

1 released OFF released none

released,
2 charged OFF C- O
is charged via C

3 released ON charged O

charged,
4 charged ON O-C-O
is re-charged via C

C = Closing (ON) O = Opening (OFF)

AGS 531 271-01 | Edition 08/2011 21

VAH 7 Operation

7.2 Charging the energy storing device

Manually
Initial position: Circuit-breaker in "OFF" position.
Energy storing device "released"
(Table: Chapter 7.1, page 21, item
1
1)
Move circuit-breaker in "ready-for-clos
ing" position:

1. Insert crank into opening for charg 2

ing the energy storing device.
2. Perform approx. 35 turns (clock
wise) until position indicator
"charged" appears (starting the
motor during this procedure does
not involve a danger).
(Table: Chapter 7.1,on page 21,
item 2)
Fig. 20
3. After charging, remove the crank.
Charging the energy-storing device
The circuit-breaker is ready for
manually
closing.
1 Insert crank
2 approx. 35 turns clockwise

Via motor
The energy storing device of motorized circuit-breakers is charged automatically as
soon as the motor's auxiliary voltage is applied.

7.3 Switching operations

Important:
The specific interlocks between the circuit-breaker and the panel must
be taken into account.

Closing (ON) Push button "ON" - or

apply voltage to shunt closing release.
The position indicator shows the switch position "ON"
(Table: Chapter 7.1, page 21, item 3).

The position of the auxiliary switch has changed.

The energy storing device can be charged immediately after switching ON (by hand
or by motor).
If voltage is applied to the motor, charging is performed automatically.
(Table: Chapter 7.1, page 21, item 4)

Opening (OFF) Push button "OFF" - or

switch off via shunt opening release, undervoltage release or secondary coil.
The position indicator shows the switch position "OFF"
(Table: Chapter 7.1, page 21, item 1 or 2).

The position of the auxiliary switch has changed.

22 AGS 531 271-01 | Edition 08/2011

VAH 7 Operation

7.4 Fan attachment

Fan modules are attached depending on the rated current Ir and the conductor bar
terminal cross section (see also System Configurations for the VAH circuit-break
er).
The fans are located above the switch poles and blow air onto the heat sink.
The system is equipped with compact fans, each equipped with an axial fan and
guard screen.
The fans are designed for min. 20,000 service hours under normal operating condi
tions (see Chapter 2.3, page 6), and do not require any maintenance.

Fan operation: The fan does not start turning until the prevailing normal current has exceeded an
adjustable threshold.
Compact fan (Papst, 5656 S; 30 W power):
ON threshold: 4700 A
OFF threshold: 4500 A
Compact fan (ebm; W2E 200-HH 38-01; 80 W power):
ON threshold: 4800 A
OFF threshold: 4600 A

Air flow monitor: To ensure the required cooling effect, the fans are monitored by air flow monitors.
These are located below the fans blow-out opening.
If there is no air flow due to failure of a fan, the air flow monitor issues a signal.

Measures in case of failure of Reduction of the maximum operating current to the appropriate fan ON thresh
a fan: old of the switching unit.
Contact the manufacturers Service Center.

1
2

3
4

Fig. 21
Heavy-duty vacuum switch VAH with fan module
1 Direction of air flow
2 Compact fan (shown: ebm; W2E 200-HH 38-01)
3 Air flow monitor
4 Connector terminal (24 poles)

AGS 531 271-01 | Edition 08/2011 23

VAH 8 Maintenance

8.1 Safety provisions

Maintenance and cleaning work may only be performed by specialist electricians
who have been certified by the manufacturer for maintenance work on the series
VAH vacuum circuit-breakers and who are familiar with the appropriate safety provi
sions.

Warning!
Comply with the safety provisions in Chapter 1, page 5!

Warning!
The circuit-breaker must not be disassembled for maintenance
work!
Use in line with the intended purpose jeopardised (see Chapter
2.6 on page 10).

Safety precautions:
1. On principle, the 5 safety rules applicable for electrical engineering must be
complied with before maintenance work on the circuit-breaker is started. These
rules apply for all live parts:
Isolating from the power supply
Securing from reclosing
Ensuring zero voltage
Earthing and short-circuiting
Covering or cordoning off adjacent live components.
2. Switch off the auxiliary voltage for the circuit-breaker drive and secure it against
reclosing.
3. Release the energy-storing device by performing the corresponding operating
sequence on the circuit-breaker:
OFF - ON - OFF (see Chapter 7, as of page 21).

24 AGS 531 271-01 | Edition 08/2011

VAH 8 Maintenance

8.2 Maintenance schedule

Series VAH vacuum circuit-breakers are indoor switching devices designed for nor-
mal operating conditions in acc. with IEC 62271-1.

Inspection It is recommended to check the circuit-breakers visually at regular intervals depend-

ing on the strain they are subject to during operation and in accordance with national
regulations.

Important:
In case of frequent condensation or air pollution (dust, smoke or cor-
rosive gases), the maintenance intervals must be adapted to the actual
conditions.

A visual inspection includes a complete check of the circuit-breaker for contamina-

tion, condensation and damage, to be performed by certified staff.

Maintenance If there are signs of contamination or condensation, the circuit-breakers must be

cleaned in an expert manner (see Chapters 8.3 and 8.4 on page 27) and subse-
quently the drives, interlocks and position indicators checked for proper functioning
(see Chapter 7 as of page 21).

Overhauling If damage is detected, it must be repaired immediately, or components replaced.

In case of ambiguities or irregularities, please contact the manufacturers Service
Center immediately.

Maintenance interval Maintenance work Qualification /

Work performed
by
After 20 years Clean and grease circuit-
breaker
(see Chapter 8.3, page 26 Staff who have
and Chapter 8.7, page 27) been certified for
this work
Perform several switching
tests
After 10 000 operating Revision of the circuit-
cycles breaker
once the max. admissible Replacement of circuit- Manufacturers
number of breaking opera- breaker poles Service Center
tions for the vacuum cham-
bers has been reached
(see Chapter 8.8, page 31)

AGS 531 271-01 | Edition 08/2011 25

VAH
8 Maintenance

8.3 Cleaning insulating components

To secure the specified insulating level, the insulators must be clean.

The following parts must be post insulators

cleaned: operating rods
connection plates
ceramic of the vacuum switching chambers
partitions
Moreover, general cleanliness of the circuit-breaker and of its external parts should
be ensured.

Use a dry cleaning cloth in case Clean by means of a dry, lint-free cloth. Depending on quantity of dirt collected,
of slight soiling: replace cloth as often as necessary.

Use cleaning agents in case of
severe soiling:
Cleaning agent 1 liter can, Order no. S 008152
The use of other cleaning agents is not admissible.
Wear protective gloves
Use the cleaning agent according to the manufacturers instructions
Soak the cloth thoroughly and wipe the insulating components. Keep duration
of contact as short as possible.
Expose the cleaned surface to the air for at least 2 hours.

Fig. 22
VAH circuit-breaker
Insulating components which must be cleaned at regular intervals

26 AGS 531 271-01 | Edition 08/2011

VAH 8 Maintenance

8.4 Corrosion protection

Drive mechanisms and covers have a long-term protection against corrosion. Any
damage to the paint, scratches and other damage must be remedied immediately to
avoid corrosion.
Contact the manufacturers Service Center.

8.5 Condensation
To ensure the specified insulating level, the VAH circuit-breaker especially its insu
lating components must not be exposed to condensation.

Measures to take in case of condensation:

1. If condensation of the circuit-breaker is detected, the switching device must be
cleaned according to Chapter 8.3, page 26 .
2. Installation or inspection of the appropriate heating. It must provide a sufficient
heating performance to prevent condensation on the circuit-breaker.

8.6 Replacement of components

Drive or live high-voltage components may be replaced as required.

The following data on the nameplate are relevant for replacement of components or

in case of any queries (see also Chapter 2.4, page 7):

Type designation
Serial number
Year of construction
If you have any queries regarding replacement of components, please contact the
manufacturers Service Center.

8.7 Greasing the circuit-breaker pole and drive

mechanisms
Important:
The following elements must not be lubricated:
charging gears
motor
ball-bearings and sliding bearings
auxiliary Make release
auxiliary Break release
push switch Make-Break
push switch "Energy-storing device"
auxiliary switches
tappets of all release coils

AGS 531 271-01 | Edition 08/2011 27

VAH 8 Maintenance

Grease switch poles: O Liquid lubricant FL

Order no. S 008 153, on bearings, articulated joints and guides.
Apply liquid lubricant in drops (oil can, drip-feed oiler) in the bearing gap. Through
capillary action the liquid lubricant runs between the bearing surfaces. Use extension
pipe or spray at inaccessible lubrication points.

Fig. 23
Circuit-breaker pole VAH 1250 A / 2500 A / 3150 A, lower section, lubrication points

Fig. 24
Circuit-breaker pole VAH 4000 A / 8000 A, lower section, lubrication points

28 AGS 531 271-01 | Edition 08/2011

VAH 8 Maintenance

Removing the operating panel: Tool: TORX screwdriver, size T25 / slotted screwdriver

Remove the 5 x M5 screws on the front and remove the operating panel.

Put operating panel and screws in a safe place for subsequent reassembly.

Once lubrication of the drive 1. Put the operating panel back on.
mechanism is complete: Tightening torque for the securing bolts: 3.8 - 5.6 Nm.
2. Put circuit-breaker into operation again according to Chapter 6, as of page 20
Commissioning.

1 1

1
Fig. 25
Frontplate of VAH circuit-breaker
1 Securing bolts
Lubrication the drive:

Fig. 26

Lubrication points in the drive (overview drawing see Fig. 27, page 30)

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VAH 8 Maintenance

Lubrication procedure:
Synthetic lubricant
Order no. ST 312-111-835, on sliding surfaces
Clean lubrication points, e.g. with a non-fluffy cotton cloth or soft brush and deter
gent (use little, moisten only lubrication points). Apply a thin film of synthetic lubri
cant.

Liquid lubricant FL
Order no. S 008 153 on bearings, articulated joints and guides
Apply the liquid lubricant in drops (oil can, drip-feed lubricator) in the bearing gap.
The liquid lubricant runs between the bearing surfaces through capillary action. Use
extension pipe or spray at inaccessible points.

11 10

4 5

Fig. 27
Lubrication points in the drive
Synthetic lubricant
Liquid lubricant FL

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VAH 8 Maintenance

8.8 Maximum admissible numbers of breaking

operations of vacuum chamber
The diagrams (Fig. 28 and Fig. 30) define exclusively the max. admissible numbers
of breaking operations of the circuit-breaker depending on the rated normal current Ir
and of the short-circuit breaking current Isc. They indicate when the vacuum inter
rupter chambers need to be replaced.
The diagrams show examples of values for the rated normal current Ir and the short-
circuit breaking current Isc.
The data for the rated normal current Ir and the short-circuit breaking current Isc are
indicated on the nameplate (see Fig. 29, page 32 for generator circuit-breaker VAH
in acc. with IEEE C37.013).

VAH circuit-breaker in acc. with example: VAH 12-50-40-27

IEC 62271-100 VAH 12-63-40-27

100000

10000
Number of breaking operations [n]

1000

100
Isc = 50 kA Isc = 63 kA
30
20
10

1
0 1 4 10 50 63 100
Ratings Ir und ISC [kA]

Fig. 28
Admissible breaking numbers for the vacuum chamber with values (example)
Ir = rated normal current = 4 kA
Isc = short-circuit breaking current = 50 kA and 63 kA

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VAH 8 Maintenance

Generator circuit-breaker
VAH in acc. with IEEE C37.013

Fig. 29
Data for rated normal current Ir (1) and short-circuit breaking current Isc (2) on the
nameplate

100000

10000
Number of breaking operations [n]

1000

100
50

10

1
0 1 5 10 63 100
Ratings Ir und ISC [kA]

Fig. 30
Admissible breaking numbers for the vacuum chamber with values (example)
Ir = rated normal current = 5 kA
Isc = short-circuit breaking current 63 kA

32 AGS 531 271-01 | Edition 08/2011

VAH 9 Annex

9.1 Accessories
Designation Order no.
Manual crank AGS 617 810-01

9.2 Auxiliary products

The auxiliary products are available from the manufacturer. The use of alternative
auxiliary products is not permissible.

Warning!
Risk of injury if these products are handled improperly.
Observe the safety data sheets of the manufacturers of the auxil-
iary products.

Designation Order no.

Synthetic lubricant, 0,5-kg can ST 312-111-835
Liquid lubricant FL, 0,5-kg can S 008 153
Cleaning agent, 1-l can S 008 152
Touch-up pen RAL 7044, silk-grey, 50 ml S 009 561
Touch-up pen, special paint (specify colour shade) S 009 562

9.3 Treatment of firmly screw-connected contact

surfaces
Important:
Caution when handling bars insulated by heat-shrinkable sleeves:
The heat-shrinkable sleeve must not get into contact with contact
grease (swelling).
Contact areas coated with contact grease should not be touched,
if possible.

1. Contact areas must be subjected to preliminary treatment before screw-fasten

ing (see Table below)
2. Immediately after the pre-treatment, coat the contact surfaces with contact
grease, so that the space between the contact surfaces is completely filled
once the screws have been connected.

Material of contact surfaces Pre-treatment

Silver-plated Cleaning1
Nickel-plated Remove passivation layer4
Copper or copper alloy Clean1, expose metallic surface2
Aluminium Clean1, expose metallic surface2
Steel Clean1, expose metallic surface2
Zinc-plated steel Remove passivation, not, however, the zinc
layer3
Hot-galvanized sheet-metal Clean1, passivation need not be removed
1
Clean by means of lint-free cloth; use cleaning agent in case of serious con
tamination
2
Expose metallic surface
- by treating the entire surface with emery cloth or a rotating grinding tool (grain
size 100 or 80) or
- using a wire brush which is clearly marked for use exclusively for aluminium or
exclusively for copper
3
using a brass brush, steel brush
4
rub slightly by hand using Scotchbrite abrasive agent (Ni layer must not be
reduced)

AGS 531 271-01 | Edition 08/2011 33

VAH 9 Annex

9.4 Specifications for screw connections

Important:
The threads of screws and bolts must generally not be pre-trea
ted!
Max. tolerance for the effective tightening torques: 15%
The nut must correspond in strength to the grade of the screw/bolt
used or be of better quality.

General screw connections

Grade or material
Self-locking screw
Screw/bolt Plastics 8.8 10.9
8.8
Thread Tightening torques [Nm]
M4 0.25 2.6
M5 0.5 5.0 7.0
M6 0.8 8.8 12.3
M8 1.8 21.0 30.0
M 10 3.5 42.0 59.0
M 12 6.0 70.0 97
M 16 12 170
M 20 330

Screw fastening for power Screw connection for terminal

transmission strips
Screws and bolts: Grade 8.8

Conductor material: copper Thread Tightening

Thread Tightening torques [Nm]
torques [Nm] M 2.5 (M 2.6) 0.5
M6 6.5 M3 0.7
M8 17 M 3.5 1.0
M 10 35 M4 1.5
M 12 68 M5 2.5
M 16 135

34 AGS 531 271-01 | Edition 08/2011

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