LOW VOLTAGE SWITCHGEAR TESTING

[EEAOC]

I have to witness a low voltage switchgear factory test soon.
I only have project specifications which do not say much.
I like to know if there is any literature on line where I can look up for some of the important testing requirements

 

[buzzp]

The specifications should identify the standard the switchgear falls under. This will tell you the test procedures and acceptance criteria.

 

[jray480]

You can lookup neta "International Electrical Testing Association" online but I think their viewable specs are limited.

 

[alehman]

If there is nothing in the specifications on testing, only the specified standards would apply unless you modify the contract.

In the U.S., UL 891 would typically apply for low voltage switchboards. If the specs require switchgear construction per ANSI standards, ANSI C37.20.1 and UL 1558 would apply. You must read the specs very carefully to determine which standards apply.

Any of these standards will require insulation resistance (megger) testing of the bus and control wiring, AC insulation strength (hipot) test, ground fault system test if applicable, operation of all circuit breakers and switches and functional testing of control schemes and interlocks.

NETA testing is much more comprehensive but would apply only if it is required by the specifications. NETA tests are normally intended to be performed after installation rather that at the factory.

 

[Bira]

As mentioned above the switchgear that you are going to witness the test, must/should adher to a standard. You can have a look at IEC/EN 60439-1 which will give you fair idea about the different type of tests need to be run in a switchgear. This standard talks about the type tests & gives some idea about the routine tests also. Since you mentioned abt the project spec, I think you are going to first time launch the product. So what you need is to perform/witness a set of type tests, which this standard talks about in details.