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13.8kV Test Cabinet

13.8kV Test Cabinet

13.8kV Test Cabinet

(OP)
We proposed to provide wall-mounted circuit breaker test cabinet for the 13.8kV switchgear. Our client informed us that they don't require it because they can test the circuit breaker at "test" position at the switchgear.

I think something is missed out here and I wish to seek technical opinion on this.

Thanks

RE: 13.8kV Test Cabinet

I am curious too. What does a test cabinet do? On the wall? Norm in the USA is to roll out the breaker and test it on the floor, usually by a testing company. In test position some operational tests can be performed.

Rafiq Bulsara
http://www.srengineersct.com

RE: 13.8kV Test Cabinet

I believe the test cabinet is a control power supply, with a trip / close switch and indicating lights + the cable to the secondary disconnects of the breaker.  This gets testing crew out of the arc flash zone, as the breaker is rolled to the wall mounted supply.

RE: 13.8kV Test Cabinet

Wall mounted testing stations are common, we provide them all the time to facilities. But they are limited in thier testing capabilities, just like using the test position in the cubicle, they do not allow to test for min/max pickups for the coils. We build custom cells with variable voltage control power to allow for complete testing. I just finished building one for a Magneblast this week.  

RE: 13.8kV Test Cabinet

Just what Zogzog said. The test cabinet has the advantage that the breaker can be tested on the floor, out of the HV cubicle, in which another (spare) breaker can be in service.
A commonly provided and useful piece of equipment.

rasevskii

RE: 13.8kV Test Cabinet

(OP)
Thank you guys for all your inputs. I think safety and a little flexibility will be the keypoints here.

RE: 13.8kV Test Cabinet

As mentioned, a breaker "Test Stand" in my commercial industrial world is typically a small box with OPEN and CLOSE pushbuttons and (most importantly)a short umbilical cord with the correct secondary receptica/plug/etc that connects properly to your particular breakers.  These test stands assist in standard maintenance work as it allows (and confirms) proper electrical open and close operation of the breaker.

Just this week we were called in to investigate a 38kV metal-clad breaker that "had a bad close coil" and was taken out of service.  It would have been a simple matter to confirm or deny had there been a basic test stand.  There was an umbilical, but no empty cell to use the test position. Standard troubleshooting determined the coils were all good.  But we had to jury rig something to confirm proper electric operation.

If it was my equipment I would provide every opportunity so as NOT to have people "jury rigging" to confirm proper electrical operation.  Basic test stands are not expensive and get used often (in my little world at least).

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