SAIEE TUTORIAL

PROTECTION APPLICATION
CONSIDERATIONS
FOR

EARTHING SYSTEMS

AND

SECTION ON
EARTHING SYSTEMS

BY D G DUNCAN

Ron Slatem and Associates

(Acknowledgement to Ron Slatem and previous Eskom personnel)

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SYSTEM GROUNDING AND ASSOCIATED

PROTECTION ASPECTS

1.0 SYSTEM NEUTRAL GROUNDING (OR EARTHING)

1.1 Introduction

The principal objective for any power system, whether industrial or utility, is to continue to function in
its entirety for as great a percentage of its operating life as possible. If it could be arranged that the
system continued to function satisfactorily even when a fault has occurred, without disconnecting the
faulty element, this would be ideal. In the hope of achieving this objective the earliest power systems
were operated without the intentional connection to ground of any part of the system. The theory was
that an accidental connection to ground would have no adverse effect on plant as no ground fault
currents could flow. With no ground fault currents there could be no damage. Therefore the plant could
be kept in service.

Unfortunately, it is physically impossible to have a system without any connection whatsoever to

ground. Even if there is no intentional connection, there is always the capacitance of the system to
ground which provides a path for current flow if a further connection to ground occurs. See fig 1a.
Such currents would, of course, be of relatively low magnitude.

If the further, unintentional, connection to ground is a solid, "bolted" connection, the situation is still
tolerable as the effect of grounding one phase of an otherwise "ungrounded" system is merely to lift the
other two phases to line voltage above ground. (Fig.lc). If the insulation to ground is designed to
withstand such voltages continuously, the system can be operated in spite of the ground "fault"
condition.

The first problem that is likely to arise is if a second phase should also develop a ground fault. Now
there is a solid path for the flow of large fault currents and the condition is equivalent to a phase-to-
phase fault. The second fault is highly unlikely to occur on the same circuit as the initial fault. This
type of double ground fault on different circuits is called a "cross-country" fault and is often very
difficult to relay satisfactorily. It also requires the disconnection of two items of plant.

The second, and more serious problem arises if the ground fault is not a solid bolted fault, but an arc.
The arc is of a low current level and tends to be highly unstable so it tends to quench and restrike as the
system voltage alternates. Such restriking in a capacitively grounded circuit is called an "arcing-
ground" and can give rise to extremely high transient overvoltages. These overvoltages can severely
stress the insulation of the whole of the associated system and cause multiple insulation failures on
other items of plant, leading to far greater disruption of the system than the removal of the initial faulty
item would have caused. The disruption is also likely to be more prolonged and more costly.

Because of bitter adverse experience of multiple insulation failures in many isolated neutral systems, it
has become increasingly common practice to provide systems with an intentional grounding
connection. The primary purpose of system grounding is to minimise the overvoltage and/or thermal
damage to the system in the event of an earth-fault.

System grounding reduces the severity of dynamic and transient overvoltages which develop if the
system is subjected to a ground fault, particularily and can reduce thermal damage at the point of fault
if the ground fault current is restricted.
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The grounding connection is usually made via available neutral points on the apparatus, such as the
transformer neutral points on star connected windings, or via artificially derived neutral points. See fig
1b.

In exceptional cases, at lower voltages up to 33kV, one corner of the system delta voltage triangle,
instead of a neutral point, can be grounded. See fig 1c. This is normally only considered for systems of
very limited extent e.g., the delta connected, stabilising winding of an auto-transformer which is either
not used to supply load or which only supplies the local station auxiliary load.

The various available ways of grounding the system can each result in different levels of current and
voltage stress.

It is the purpose of this article to assist the planning engineer in deciding how to select the grounding
method most suited to his needs. The basic reasons for grounding or not grounding are presented, and
the general practices and methods of grounding are reviewed. The SAIEE Workshop on neutral
earthing at CSIR in June 1980 resulted in the recommendation of 300A earthing at medium voltages.in
South Africa under the SABS Code of Practice 0200-1985 for Neutral Earthing of MV Industrial
Power Systems.

1.2 Definitions

The following varieties of system grounding are possible:-

1.2.1 Solid grounding

No intentional impedance in the grounding path (see note 2 on page 4)

1.2.2 Effective grounding

Based on the criterion that reduced insulation levels and reduced rated (80%) surge arresters can be
used. (See note 1 on page 4) .

RO ≥ X1 and X0 ≤ 3X1

RO = Zero sequence resistance

X0 = Zero sequence reactance

X1 = Positive sequence reactance

1.2.3 Reactance grounding

Intentional insertion of reactance in the grounding path.

X0 ≤ 10 X1
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1.2.4 Low Resistance Grounding

Intentional insertion of resistance into the system grounding path.

R0 ≥ 2 X0

1.2.5 High Resistance Grounding

The insertion of nearly the highest permissible resistance in the grounding connection.

R0 ≤ XC0/3

1.2.6 Grounding for serving line-ground loads

Z0 ≤ Z1

1.2.7 Ungrounded

No intentional system grounding connection.

1.2.8 Effects of method of Grounding

The typical levels of available ground fault current that can be expected from these types of system
grounding are:-

1) Solidly grounded, effectively grounded and grounded for serving line-ground loads can result in
the same order of ground fault current as is available for three-phase short circuits usually of
the order of several thousands of amperes.

2) Reactance grounded. Ground fault currents range from 25% to 60% of the three-phase level.
These correspond to X0/X1 ratios of 10 and 3

3) Low resistance grounded: from as low as 50 amperes up to several thousand amperes.

4) High resistance grounded: ground fault currents up to 50 amperes. Usually less than 10
amperes.

It must immediately be obvious that, the higher the level of ground fault current that can be expected
from the grounding method, the faster the protection must operate if excessive thermal damage is to be
avoided.

If the grounding method limits the ground fault currents to very low levels, the protection can be
slower in operation but the need for greater sensitivity increases. However, the protection must not be
too slow as to allow the ground fault to develop into a phase to phase fault.
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There is always a trade-off between current stress and voltage stress. If you limit the current stress, you
run the risk of introducing voltage stress and also increase the relaying difficulty. The prime objective
of system grounding is to limit current stress without introducing unacceptable voltage stress or
relaying difficulty.

1.2.8.1..Effectively Grounded.

Grounded through a grounding connection of sufficiently low impedance (inherent or intentionally

added or both) that ground faults which may occurcannot build up voltages in excess of limits
established for apparatus, circuits, or systems so grounded.

NOTE 1 .

An A.C. system, or portion thereof, may be said to be effectively grounded when, for all points on the
system or a specified portion thereof, the ratio of zero-sequence reactance (X0) to positive-sequence
reactance (X1) is not greater than 3 and the ratio of zero-sequence resistance (R0) to positive-sequence
reactance (X1) is not greater than 1.0 for any condition of operation and for any amount of connected
generator capacity. This definition is basically used in the application of line-to-neutral surge arresters.
Surge arresters with less than line-to-line voltage ratings (80% arrestors) are applicable on effectively
grounded systems. Insulation cost can be reduced by the use of effective earthing, but at the expense of
relatively high fault current levels.

1.2.8.2..Grounded System.

A system of conductors in which at least one conductor or point (usually the middle wire or neutral
point of a transformer or generator winding) is intentionally grounded, whether solidly or through a
current-limiting device.

NOTE 2 Various degrees of grounding have been used, from solid or effective to the high-impedance
grounding obtained from a small grounding transformer erroneously used only to secure enough
ground current for relaying, or to the high-resistance grounding which secures control of transient
overvoltages but may not furnish sufficient current for ground-fault relaying. Figs,lb and lc show two
points at which a system may be grounded and the corresponding voltage relationships.

1.2.8.3 Solidly grounded.

Grounded through an adequate ground connection in which no impedance has been inserted
intentionally.

NOTE 3.

This term, though commonly used, is somewhat confusing since a transformer may have its neutral
solidly connected to ground, and yet the connection may be so small in capacity as to furnish only a
very-high-impedance ground to the system to which it is connected. In order to define grounding
positively and logically as to degree, the term effective grounding has come into use. The term solidly
grounded will, therefore, be used only in referring to a solid metallic connection from system neutral to
ground; that is, with no impedance intentionally added in the grounding circuit. It does not imply that
the system is necessarily effectively grounded.
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1.2.8.4 Ungrounded.

A system, circuit, or apparatus without an intentional connection to ground except through potential-
indicating or measuring devices or other very- high-impedance devices and the system capacitance.

NOTE 4.

Though called ungrounded, this type of system is in reality coupled to ground through the distributed
capacitance of its phase windings and conductors. In the absence of a ground fault, the neutral of an
ungrounded system, under reasonably balanced load conditions, will usually be close to ground
potential, being held there by the balanced electrostatic capacitance between each phase conductor and
ground. Fig. la shows an ungrounded system with voltage relations for balanced phase-to-ground
capacitances.

1.3 Factors Influencing Choice of Grounded or Ungrounded System

1.3.1 Service Continuity

As already indicated, a great number of industrial plant distribution systems have been operated
ungrounded at one or more voltage levels for may years. In most cases this was done with the thought
of gaining an additional degree of service continuity. The fact that any contact occurring between one
phase of the system and ground is unlikely to cause an immediate outage to any load may represent an
advantage in many plants, varying in its importance according to the type of plant.

For the first grade shut-down supplies at Koeberg nuclear power station it is vital that the supplies are
available even if a ground-fault should occur. The licensing authorities insist that the auxiliary systems
providing these supplies must not be grounded. They claim that the zero-sequence capacitance of the
system is so low that arcing fault currents will be self extinguishing. There should, therefore, be no
danger of arcing grounds causing excessive overvoltages, and multiple ground-faults.

Grounded systems, in most cases, are designed so that circuit protective devices will remove a faulty
circuit from the system regardless of the type of fault. A phase-to-ground fault generally results in the
immediate isolation of the faulted circuit with the attendant outage of the loads on that circuit.
However, experience has shown (4), in the greatest number of systems, that greater service continuity
may be obtained with grounded-neutral than with ungrounded-neutral systems.

1.3.2 Multiple Faults to Ground

We have seen that while a ground-fault on one phase of an ungrounded system generally does not
cause a service interruption, the occurrence of a second ground fault on a different phase, before the
first fault is cleared does result in an outage. If both faults are on the same feeder, that feeder will be
opened. If the second fault is on a different feeder, both feeders may have to be de-energized.

The longer a ground is allowed to remain on an ungrounded system, the greater is the likelihood of a
second ground occurring on another phase, resulting in an outage. The advantage of an ungrounded
system, in not immediately dropping load upon the occurrence of a ground fault, may largely be
destroyed by the practice of ignoring a ground until a second one occurs and repairs are required to
restore service. With an ungrounded system it is extremely important that an
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organised maintenance programme be provided so that grounds are located and removed as soon as
possible after their detection.

An adequate detection system, possibly in conjunction with an audible alarm, is considered essential
for operation of an ungrounded system. In addition, it is advisable in ungrounded systems to employ
ground-fault tracing equipment which permits maintenance personnel to locate a ground with the
system energised and without the necessity of interrupting service on any circuit during the process of
fault locating.

Experience has shown that multiple “cross country” ground faults are rarely, if ever, experienced on
grounded-neutral systems. A possible exception to this rule is the case of double circuit overhead lines
where high power footing resistances can result in a ground fault on both circuits due to a lightning
stroke to the tower. This is a double “back-flash”.

1.3.3 Arcing Fault Burndowns

In recent years, especially in low-voltage power systems, there have been many reported cases of
arcing fault burndowns in which severe damage to or complete destruction of electrical equipment has
been caused by the energy of arcing fault currents (5). In typical cases an arcing fault becomes
established between two or more phase conductors in an ungrounded system, or between phase
conductor(s) and ground in a solidly grounded-neutral system. The fault arc causes the release of
enormous amounts of energy at the fault site, resulting in the violent generation of hot gases and arc
plasma. The accompanying heat is so intense that it vaporises copper or aluminium conductors and
surrounding steel enclosures and distills toxic and flammable gases from organic insulation systems.
Frequently, the devastation is so complete that the equipment involved must be totally replaced.

It is characteristic of arcing fault burndowns that the normal phase-overcurrent devices do not operate
to remove the initial fault quickly. Arcing fault current levels may be so low that such devices are
either not actuated at all (fault currents are below pickup settings) or are actuated only after a long
period of time, too late to prevent burndown.

It is generally recognised that prevention of arcing fault burndowns, at the present state of protective
system design, must rely upon fast and sensitive detection of the arcing fault current, accompanied by
interruption of the faulty circuit within approximately 5 to 20 cycles, (100-400ms). In the solidly
grounded-neutral system, this fast, sensitive detection is possible since an arcing fault will produce a
current in the ground path, either because the fault begins as a line-to-ground fault or because it will
almost instantly involve ground even though initiated as a line-to-line arcing fault. Under normal
(nonground fault) conditions there is no significant current in the ground return path; therefore,
monitoring the solidly grounded-neutral system for currents in the ground circuit provides an easy
means for detecting and removing destructive arcing faults to ground. This type of protection is
universally applicable throughout the power system, and the sensitivity and speed of such relaying is
independent of load current values and phase-overcurrent device settings. Relays are being introduced
which recognise the high frequency signature of an arcing ground fault

Thus, the solid and low-resistance grounded-neutral systems provide a basis for easily securing
protection against ruinous (phase-to-ground) arcing fault burndowns. The ungrounded and high-
impedance grounded systems, on the other hand, while generally being less likely to experience arcing
faults, provide less protection against arc blast and flash hazard. No system has completely reliable and
universally applicable means of protection against low-level line-to-line arcing fault burndowns.

1.3.4 Location of Faults

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On an ungrounded system, a ground fault does not open the circuit. Some means of detecting the
presence of a ground on the system should be installed. Voltage transformers connected to indicate the
potential from each phase to ground will show the presence of a ground fault and which phase is
involved, but will not show on which feeder the fault has occurred. Locating a ground fault on one of
the several feeders may require the removal from service of one feeder at a time until the ground
detector indicates that the faulted feeder has been removed from the system. Should it happen that the
same phase of two different feeders becomes faulted to ground at the same time, the faulted feeders
cannot be located by removing them from the system one at a time. It may be necessary to remove all
feeders and restore them to service one at a time, checking the ground detector as each feeder is
restored. Such detection methods inevitably result in considerable disruption of the supply continuity.

The location of a grounded feeder on an ungrounded system may be facilitated by use of various types
of locating apparatus. For example, an interrupted direct voltage or superimposed audio signal may be
applied to the feeder bus and the tracing current detected in the grounded feeders. Some operators have
reported success using 1ocation apparatus not requiring the deenergizing of system feeders.

This, of course, has the advantage of permitting location of grounds without waiting for light load
periods on the system.

An accidental ground on a grounded system is both indicated and at least partially located by an
automatic interruption of the accidentally grounded circuit or piece of equipment.
1.3.5 Safety

Many of the hazards to personnel and property existing in some industrial electrical systems are the
result of poor or nonexistent grounding of electrical equipment and metallic structures. It is important
to note that regardless of whether or not the system neutral is grounded, safety considerations require
thorough grounding of equipment and structures.

Proper grounding of a low voltage (600 V or less) distribution system may result in less likelihood of
accidents to personnel than leaving the system supposedly ungrounded. The knowledge that a circuit is
grounded generally will result in greater care on the part of the workman.

It is erroneous to believe that on an ungrounded system a person may contact an energized phase
conductor without personal hazard. As Fig. la shows, an ungrounded system with balanced phase-to-
ground capacitance has normal line-to-neutral voltage existing between any phase conductor and
ground. To contact such a conductor accidentally or intentionally, may present a serious, perhaps
lethal, shock hazard in most instances. The capacitve current which can flow may be in the order of
amps at medium voltages.

During the period a ground fault remains on one phase of an ungrounded system, personnel contacting
one of the other phases and ground are subjected to voltage 1,73 times that which would be
experienced on a solidly neutral-grounded system. The voltage pattern would be the same as shown in
Fig. lc.

Other hazards of shock and fire may result from inadequate grounding of equipment in either grounded
or ungrounded systems. Accidental grounds are inevitable. The current path to ground for a winding-
to-frame insulation breakdown in a motor may include greasy shavings or other materials that would be
ignited by sparks or localised heating. Such a high-impedance ground circuit may not permit enough
current flow to operate protective devices, with the result that a potential fire and safety hazard may
exist for some time. There is the hazard of shock to personnel from such a condition should they bridge
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all or part of the high-impedance ground path, for example, contacting the frame of the faulty machine.
This hazard is particularly bad because there are more possible victims than in the case of persons
familiar with electric systems working on a circuit.

1.3.6 Abnormal Voltage Hazards

The posssible overvoltages on the ungrounded system may cause more frequent failure of equipment
than if the system were grounded. In some cases these overvoltages have caused failures on more than
one unit of equipment at the same time. These multiple failures are not necessarily confined to one
feeder but may involve equipment on several different feeders.

A fault on one phase of an ungrounded system places a sustained increased voltage on the insulation of
ungrounded phases in a three-phase system. This overvoltage is 1,73 times the voltage normally on the
insulation. This or other sustained overvoltages or the transient overvoltages on the ungrounded system
may not immediately cause failure of insulation, but may tend to reduce the life of the insulation.

The reduced overvoltages experienced on grounded systems are less likely to damage equipment or
insulation.

1.4 Power System 0vervoltages (See Refs. 9, ch 5).

Some of the more common sources of overvoltage on a power system are the following:

(1) Lightning
(2) Switching surges
(3) Static
(4) Contact with a higher voltage system
(5) Line-to-ground faults
(6) Resonant conditions
(7) Restriking ground faults

1.4.1 Lightning (See Ref,10)

Most industrial systems are effectively shielded against direct lightning strokes. Many circuits are
either underground in ducts or within grounded metal conduits or race-ways. Even open-wire circuits
are often shielded by adjacent metallic structures and buildings. Surge arresters applied at the incoming
service, limit the surge voltages within the plant resulting from strokes to the exposed service lines,
other arrester applications may be necessary within the plant to protect low impulse strength devices
such as rotating machines. Where a plant is supplied from a substation stepping down from some
higher voltage, surge arresters may be required on the low side of the transformer to protect plant
equipment from surges passed by the high side arresters and reflected through the transformer.

On the power system there are many thousands of kilometres of overhead lines and transformers etc.,
directly exposed to lightning. The protection of this plant against lightning overvoltages is a separate
study. The system grounding does, however, have some influence on lightning arrester application
since it affects the system insulation level required. All forms of grounding, other than effective
grounding, require the use of 100% arresters. The arrester ratings are based on the "sound phase"
voltages which can arise during a ground-fault on one phase. These voltages exceed 80% of the normal
system line-line voltage for all forms of grounding other than effective grounding.
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For the latter case, arresters having 80% of the reseal value of those for non-effectively grounded
systems, can be used. This permits the use of lower system insulation levels.

1.4.2 Switching Surges

Normal switching operations in the system can cause overvoltages. These are generally not more than
three times normal voltage and are of short duration. Overcurrent devices such as circuit breakers or
fuses, in general, interrupt a circuit at a normal current zero at which time the stored energy in the
inductance of the circuit is zero.

The overvoltages thus developed result from transient oscillation in the circuit capacitance and
inductance, there being stored energy in the circuit capacitance at the time of current interruption. More
serious overvoltages can be produced by devices which interrupt by forcing current zero. Such devices
as current-limiting fuses must be carefully applied because of this overvoltage problem. In low-voltage
systems, however, the standards for current-limiting fuses require that the maximum peak voltage
occurring during circuit interruption shall not exceed 3000 V; this is less than the crest of the normal
high-potential voltage applied to 600-V class equipment.

Neutral grounding is not likely to reduce the total magnitude of overvoltage produced by lightning or
switching surges. It can, however, distribute the voltage between phases and reduce the possibility of
excessive voltage stress on the phase-to-ground insulation of a particular phase.

1.4.3 Static

Buildup of overvoltage on power system conductors due to static charge is not usually a problem in
modern plants with metal-enclosed circuits and equipment. Static charge on moving belts can build up
voltages which can be transmitted to the power system unless motor frames are properly grounded.
0verhead open-wire lines may be subject to static overvoltages resulting from certain atmospheric
conditions. A system ground connection, even of relatively high resistance, can effectively prevent
static voltage buildup.

1.4.4 Contact with Higher Voltage System

Contact with a higher voltage system may be caused by a broken high-voltage conductor falling on a
lower voltage conductor where both lines cross or are carried on the same poles, or by breakdown
between the high- and low-voltage windings of a transformer. If the low-voltage system is ungrounded,
the high voltage will remain on the low-voltage system causing breakdown of insulation, possibly at
several points. An effectively grounded low-voltage system, though resulting in high values of fault
current for this condition, will hold the system neutral close to ground potential and greatly reduce the
overvoltages to ground on the low-voltage system.

1.4.5 Line-to-ground Faults

A common source of sustained overvoltage on an ungrounded system is caused by one phase of a

three-phase system becoming grounded. In this case the insulation of the other phases is subjected to
1.73 above normal voltage. An effectively grounded-neutral system would not result in this
overvoltage. While this voltage seldom approaches the insulation levels of equipment and circuits, the
cumulative effect of higher than normal voltage stresses may somewhat reduce insulation life.
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1.4.6 Resonant Conditions

An ungrounded system may be subjected to resonant overvoltages. With the high phase-to-ground
capacitance of larger systems, there may be a condition of approximate circuit resonance during a line-
to-ground fault through an inductance such as a faulty coil in a motor starter. The voltage to ground of
the unfaulted phases will then be considerably in excess of line-to-line voltage. An overvoltage due to
resonant or near-resonant conditions can be encountered on a small system where tuned inductive-
capacitive circuits are used for such purposes as operation of welders. For example, if the welder is
equipped with a series capacitor for power factor improvement, the voltage across the capacitor and
across the transformer winding are each many times the supply line-to-line voltage. A fault between the
capacitor and the welder transformer imposes this high voltage on the insulation of the ungrounded
system. A grounded-neutral system would prevent this overvoltage by holding the phases to their
approximate normal voltage to ground.

Ferro-resonant conditions can also cause excessive overvoltages if the system is grounded through a
high inductance which can saturate. Such an inductance might arise if the system is grounded through a
relatively small transformer such as a voltage transformer or neutral earthing compensator (NEC, now
called a neutral electromagnetic coupler).

Transient saturation of the iron core of the grounding device results in a value of inductance which
resonates with the system zero-sequence shunt capacitance. The overvoltages are produced by a
phenomenon known as "neutral inversion". Due to the resonant condition, the system neutral moves
outside of the system voltage triangle and the phase-ground voltages can be as high as 5-8 times the
normal values. The phenomenon is illustrated in Figs 2 a & b Reference 14,15.

1.4.7 Restriking Ground Faults

Field experience and theoretical studies have shown that arcing, restriking, or vibrating ground faults
on ungrounded systems, can under certain conditions, produce surge voltages as high as six times
normal.

The conditions necessary for producing these overvoltages require that the dielectric strength of the arc
path builds up at a higher rate after each extinction of the arc than it did after the preceding extinction.
This phenomenen is unlikely to take place in open air between stationary contacts because such an arc
path is not likely to develop sufficient dielectric recovery strength. It may occur in confined areas
where the pressure may increase after each conduction period. Neutral grounding is effective in
reducing transient voltage buildup from such intermittent ground faults by reducing neutral
displacement from ground potential and reducing the destructive effectiveness of any high-frequency
voltage oscillations following each arc initiation or restrike.

Resistance grounding is particularly effective since it provides the necessary damping to prevent
voltage build up.

1.5 Cost

Grounded-neutral systems may cost from nothing to several percent more than ungrounded-neutral
systems, depending upon system voltage and whether the system to be grounded is an existing or a new
system. Equipment for 380/220-V star-connected systems almost universally provides for system
neutral grounding and therefore does not involve any extra cost. Star-connected unit substations for
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grounding 500-V systems are standard but may cost up to 6 percent more than delta-connected
substations. In addition, there is the cost of the resistor or other grounding impedance, if used, and the
possible additional cost of relaying.

For system voltages of 3,3/6,6/11/22/44 kV delta-connected transformers are common. Therefore, there
is generally a transformer price increase for grounding these systems. The grounding resistor and
ground relaying represent an extra cost.

Systems from 66kV upwards are usually star-connected and effectively grounded in this country.

Considerable savings in cost of the transformer insulation can be effected at these voltages by using
graded insulation. There is no additional cost associated with grounding such systems.

To change existing systems to grounded operation may be very expensive because it may be necessary
to add grounding transformers and their protective equipment, grounding impedance if required, and
possibly a third current transformer in all circuits to obtain ground-fault relaying on all three phases.

1.6 Trends in Application of System Grounding

The basic reasons for system grounding are the following:

(1) To limit the difference of electric potential between all uninsulated conducting objects in a
local area.

(2) To provide for isolation of faulty equipment and circuits when a fault occurs.

(3) To limit overvoltages appearing on the system under various conditions.

As previously stated many industrial power system operators believe that an ungrounded system offers
greater service continuity than a grounded system, because a line-to-ground fault does not cause
immediate tripping of the faulted circuit. On the other hand, a second ground fault on another phase of
another circuit from the original fault causes a phase-to-phase fault, large short-circuit current flow
(with attendant hazards), and tripping of both faulted circuits.

Consequently, a major factor to consider in selecting a grounded or ungrounded system is the quality of
electrical maintenance available. Well-maintained ungrounded systems, in which the first ground fault
is promptly located and corrected, probably have greater service continuity than solidly grounded
systems.

Great care must be taken to ensure that the zero sequence capacitance of such ungrounded systems is
low or serious overvoltages could arise (Figs.3a & 3b & 4a) (Refs. 14 chapter 1 and Refs. 16 chapter
6).

Ungrounded systems are definitely not recommended unless a full transient overvoltage study indicates
that they will not produce excessive overvoltages.

However, many users whose maintenance practices are not quite so extensive feel that a grounded-
neutral system gives them more continuous service than an ungrounded system.

There has been an increasing trend toward grounding industrial systems in order to overcome some of
the disadvantages attributed to ungrounded operation. In recent years a substantial percentage of new
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industrial substation transformers have been purchased with star-connected low-voltage windings with
insulated neutral brought to external termination suitable for neutral grounding.

In new installations, these transformers offer the advantage that they can be operated ungrounded,
while having the neutral available for grounding, if desired, at some future time. After the SAIEE
Workshop of 1980, the recommended practice is resistive grounding of MV systems, limited to 300A
per transformer or grounding point

1.6.1 High-Voltage systems (above 66 kV)

Systems above 66kV are nearly always solidly grounded, because these are usually transmission
circuits with open lines in which, in most cases, grounded-neutral-type (80%) lightning arresters are
desirable for better overvoltage protection and lower cost. In addition, rotating equipment is seldom
connected directly to these systems; hence, limited ground-fault current, to prevent burning of
laminations, is a less important factor than in the medium-voltage systems. In
addition, voltages above 66kV are not usually carried inside buildings; hence shock hazards due to
high fault currents are not a factor. Finally, the cost of grounding resistors at these voltages is high.

1.6.2 Industrial vs. Utility Practice

The characteristics and operation of industrial power systems differ in some respects from those
encountered in utility systems; therefore it may be expected that grounding practices would also be
different. Such is the case, although the basic principles of neutral grounding are followed in both types
of systems.

A comparison of the pertinent characteristics of the two types of systems is given and summarized in
Table I.

Utility practice in recent years has followed the recommendation of 300A resistance grounding. Many
such networks feed industrial or municipal systems. This method requires the use of ungrounded-
neutral-type lightning arresters and reduced ground fault currents. Solid grounding offers savings in
the use of graded insulation in transformers at 66kV and above. A large percentage of ground faults on
utility systems occurs as insulator flashovers on overhead lines and the high ground-fault current due to
solid grounding does not cause expensive damage to equipment at the point of fault.

In the case of industrial power systems, resistance grounding is preferred for voltage levels from 2,2 to
33kV. The principal reason for this practice is to ensure reduced magnitudes of ground-fault current
and consequent reduction in possible damage at the point of fault. This is a particularly important
factor in the case of ground faults in the windings of motors and generators. Although a ground fault of
limited magnitude and duration may cause sufficient damage to require the replacement of several
coils, the desired result is obtained when the damage is confined to the coils and the machine
laminations are left intact.
 14

TABLE 1 Industrial vs. Utility Grounding Practice

Industrial Utility
Desirability of high continuity of Yes Yes
power
Predominant method of conducting Cable Overhead lines
power
Percent of system subject to Small Large
lighning hazard
Investment in lightning arresters Small Large
Predominance of voltage levels Few systems Many systems
above 11kV
Rotating equipment at distribution Yes in most cases Not in the usual case
and transmission levels

1.7 Methods of System Grounding of the System Neutral

Most grounded systems employ some method of grounding the system neutral at one or more points.
These methods (see Fig.4) are referred to as the following:

(1) Solid grounding see fig 4b

(2) Resistance grounding see fig 4e
(3) Reactance grounding see fig 4 d
(4) Ground-fault-neutralizer grounding see fig 4c

Table II Sytem Characteristics with Various Grounding Methods

Ungrounded Essentially solid grounding Reactance Ground-fault Resistance
grounding neutralizer grounding
Solid Low-value High-value Resistance
reactor reactor
Current for phase- Less than 1% Varies, Usually 25 to 60 % Nearly zero 5 to 20 %
to-ground fault in may be designed to for X0/X1 of fault current
percent of three- 100% or producte 25 10 to 3
phase fault current greater to 100%
Transient Very high Not Not Very high Not execessive Not
overvoltages excessive excessive execessive
Automatic No Yes Yes Yes No Yes
segregation of
faulty zone
Lightning arrestors Ungrounded- Grounded- Grounded- Ungrounded- Ungrounded- Ungrounded-
neutral type neutral neutral type neutral type neutral type neutral type
type if current is
60 % or
greater
Remarks Not recom- Generally used on systems Not Best suited for Generally
mended due to (1) 600 volts and below recommende high-voltage used on
overvoltages and (2) over 15 kV d due to overhead lines industrial
and non- excessive where faults systems of
segregation of overvoltages may be self- 2,2 to 33kV
fault healing

Table II gives the characteristics of the different methods of grounding.

 15

Each method, as named, refers to the nature of the external circuit from system neutral to ground rather
than to the degree of grounding. In each case the impedance of the generator or transformer, whose
neutral is grounded, is in series with the external circuit. Thus, a solidly grounded generator or
transformer may or may not furnish effective grounding to the system, depending on its impedance.

1.7.1 Solid Grounding

Solid grounding (fig 4b) refers to the connection of the neutral of a generator, power transformer, or
grounding transformer, directly to the station ground or to the earth. Because of the reactance of the
grounded generator or transformer in series with the neutral circuit, a solid ground connection does not
provide a zero-impedance neutral circuit.

It is most important to realise that if the reactance of the generator or transformer is too great with
respect to the total system reactance, the objectives sought in grounding, principally freedom from
transient overvoltages, may not be achieved. Thus, it is necessary to determine the degree of grounding
provided in the system. A good guide in answering this question is the magnitude of ground-fault
current in relation to the three-phase fault current, the higher the ground fault amount in relation to the
three-phase current, the greater the degree of grounding in the system. In terms of resistance and
reactance, effective grounding of a system has been defined in Note 1.

In most generators, solid grounding, that is without external impedance, may permit the maximum ground-
fault current from the generator to exceed the maximum three-phase fault current which the generator can
deliver and for which its windings are braced. Consequently, neutral-grounded generators should be
grounded through a reactor which will limit the ground-fault current to a value no greater than the generator
three-phase fault current. A generator has a lower zero sequence impedance than positive sequence
impedance.

Most modern large generators are unit-connected with their step-up transformers.

The generator transformer LV winding is delta-connected and, together with the generator, forms an
"island" whose earthing can be decided on the basis of minimising the stator iron damage caused by
earth faults. High resistance or resonant grounding is most common. Refs. (1) .......

Surge arresters for grounded-neutral service (rated near but not less than 80% of line-to-line voltage)
require that the system be effectively grounded. This will carry with it a line-to-ground circuit current
of at least 60% of the three-phase short-circuit value.

1.7.2 Resistance Grounding

In resistance grounding (fig 4e), the neutral is connected to ground through one or more resistors. In
this method, with the resistors normally used and excepting for transient overvoltages, the line-to-
ground voltages which exist during a line-to-ground fault are nearly the same as for an ungrounded
system.

A system properly grounded by resistance is not subject to destructive transient overvoltages. For
resistance-grounded systems at 15 kV and below, such overvoltages will not ordinarily be of a serious
nature, unless the resistance exceeds the following boundary limits:
 16

R0 ≤ XC0 /3, R0 ≥ 2 X0 .

Resistance grounding may be either of two classes, high resistance or low resistance, distinguished by
the magnitude of ground-fault current permitted to flow. Both types are designed to limit transient
overvoltages to a safe level (within 250% of normal); however, the high-resistance method usually
does not require immediate clearing of a ground fault since the fault current is limited to a very low
level. This low level, typically in the order of 5 A, must be at least equal to the system total
capacitance-to-ground charging current, 3 x IC0/phase. The protective scheme associated with high-
resistance grounding is often detection and alarm rather than immediate tripout. Generally, the use of
high-resistance grounding with alarm only should be avoided on systems where the line-to-ground fault
current exceeds 10 A.

The low-resistance method has the advantage of immediate and selective clearing of the grounded
circuit but requires that the minimum ground-fault current be large enough, usually 300A or more, to
actuate the applied ground-fault relay positively. High-resistance grounding is a method that can be
applied to existing medium-voltage ungrounded systems to obtain the transient overvoltage protection
without the modification expense of adding ground relays to each circuit.

Systems grounded through resistors generally require surge arresters suitable for use on ungrounded-
neutral circuits, that is, with a voltage rating at least equal to line-to-line voltage.

The reasons for limiting the current by resistance grounding may be one or more of the following:

(1) To reduce burning and melting effects in faulted electric equipment such as switchgear,
transformers, cables and rotating machines.

(2) To reduce mechanical stresses in circuits and apparatus carrying fault currents.

(3) To reduce electric-shock hazards to personnel caused by stray ground-fault currents in the
ground return path.

(4) To reduce the arc blast or flash hazard to personnel who may have accidentally caused or who
happen to be in close proximity to the ground fault.

(5) To reduce the momentary line voltage dip occasioned by occurrence and clearing of a ground
fault.

(6) To secure control of transient overvoltages while at the same time avoiding the shutdown of a
faulty circuit on the occurrence of the first ground fault (high-resistance grounding).

(7) Slower and therefore cheaper ground-fault protection can be used.

(8) Practically negligible fault-breaking duty on circuit breakers clearing ground-faults - therefore
less maintenance.

(9) Reduced telephone interference.

 17

1.7.3 Reactance Grounding.

The term reactance grounding (fig 4e) describes the case in which a reactor if connected between the
system neutral and ground or where a neutral electromagnetic coupler (NEC) or grounding transformer,
having its neutral directly grounded, is provided. The value of the zero-sequence reactance of these
grounding devices is usually chosen to satisfy the requirement that

X0/X1 ≤ 10.

Since the ground-fault current which may flow in a reactInce-grounded system is a function of the
neutral reactance, the magnitude of ground-fault current is often used as a criterion for describing the
degree of grounding. In a reactance-grounded system, the available ground-fault current should be at
least 25 percent (X0/X1 ≤ 10) and preferably 60 percent (X0/X1 ≤ 3) of the three-phase fault current

to prevent serious transient overvoltages (both satisfy X0 ≤ l0X1 ). This is considerably higher than
the minimum fault current desirable in a resistance-grounded system and, therefore, reactance
grounding is usually not considered an alternative to resistance grounding.

1.7.4 Ground-Fault Neutralizer (Petersen coil) (See Ref.11).

A ground-fault neutralizer (fig 4c) is a special case of a reactor connected between the neutral of a
system and ground and having a specially selected, relatively high value of reactance. It should be
noted that failures in solid insulation such as paper, varnished cambric, and rubber are not self-healing,
as insulator flashovers can be, and are not extinguished by the use of the ground-fault neutralizer. See
Fig. 5

A line-to-ground fault causes line-to-neutral voltage to be impressed across the neutralizer, which
passes an inductive current. This current is 180ø out of phase and is approximately equal in magnitude
(when the neutralizer is tuned to the system) to the resultant of the system-charging current of the
capacitance of the two unfaulted phases.

The inductive and capacitive components of current neutralize each other, and the only remaining
current in the fault is due to resistance, insulator leakage, and corona. This current is relatively small,
and, as it is in phase with the line-to-neutral voltage, the current and voltage pass through a zero value
at the same instant. In addition, the rate of rise of recovery voltage on the faulted phase is very low.
Therefore, the arc is extinguished without restriking, and flashovers are quenched without removing
the faulted line section from service.

On systems for which ground-faults in air are relatively frequent, ground- fault neutralizers may be
very useful by reducing the number of circuit breaker operations required to remove faults, thus
improving service continuity. They have been used primarily on systems above 15 kV consisting
largely of overhead transmission lines. They have also been used on unit connected generators and
generation transformers.

In some cases, where it has not been deemed desirable by the plant operators to trip a circuit on the
occurrence of a ground fault, special arrangements have been used to limit the damage due to the flow
of charging current and yet be able to locate the faulty feeder easily. One method is to use a ground-
fault neutralizer in the neutral to limit the ground-fault current and to reduce switching surges to safe
values. In some cases it may be desirable to pass enough ground-fault current to operate relays that
 18

give a signal or trip the breaker of the faulty feeder. This is done by a current-sensing relay in
combination with a resistor in parallel with the neutralizer. Because of the current to be switched, a
power circuit breaker should be used for switching the resistor. The resistor and relay are selected as if
only the resistor were used, such a scheme is expensive and is employed only in very special cases.

One of the characteristics of resonance-grounded systems is that care must be taken to keep the
ground-fault neutralizer tuned to the system capacitance to minimize the development of transient
overvoltages. Thus, when sections of the system are switched on or off, it may be necessary to
adjust the neutral reactance by changing the neutralizer tap. This operation may be accomplished
by providing in the powerhouse an ammeter and control switch for remote control of a motor-
driven tap changer on the neutralizer, so that when parts of the system are switched, the neutralizer
may be readjusted at that time.

Self tuning reactors are now available in the market, but the cost needs to be weighed against the
advantages of the earthing with a neutralizer.

1.8 Grounding at Points other than System Neutral

In some cases, systems, particularly low-voltage systems (600 V and below), are grounded at some
point other than the system neutral. This has been done to obtain a grounded system at a minimum
expense where existing delta transformer connections do not provide access to the system neutral.

1.8.1 Corner-of-the-Delta Grounding

In some systems of limited physical extent, grounding of one phase or"corner-of-the delta" has
sometimes been done as a means of obtaining a grounded system. (see Fig 1c) A particular case
where this has been fairly extensively used in the Eskom network is for grounding the delta
stabilising winding of HV auto-transformers.

By this means the LV system is grounded and ground faults can be detected and relayed without
the additional expense of NECS or other grounding devices. Usually the corner is connected to
ground via a current transformer which is often built into the power transformer.

It has the disadvantage that the normal line-ground voltages on two of the phases are higher than
they would be for a neutral grounded system. Also, a fault to ground on one of the other phases
results in fault currents of phase-fault magnitude.

1.9 Selection and Design of System Grounding Arrangements

The best way to obtain the system neutral for grounding purposes in three-phase systems is to use
source transformers or generators with wye-connected windings. The neutral is then readily
available.

The alternative is to apply grounding transformers.

 19

1.9.1 Grounding Transformers

System neutrals will usually not be available in systems of 40kV and less. When existing delta-
connected systems are to be grounded, grounding transformers may be used to obtain the neutral.
Grounding transformers may be either of the zig-zag or star-delta connected type. The type of
grounding transformer most commonly used is a three-phase zig-zag transformer with no
secondary winding. The internal connection of this transformer is illustrated in Fig.6a The
impedance of the transformer to three-phase currents is high so that when there is no ground fault
on the system, only a small magnetizing current flows in the transformer winding. The transformer
impedance to ground current, however, is low so that it allows high ground current to flow. The
transformer divides the ground current into three equal components; these currents are in phase
with each other and flow in the three windings of the grounding transformer. The method of
winding is seen from Fig 6b to be such that when these three equal currents flow, the current in
one section of the winding of each leg of the core is in a direction opposite to that in the other
section of the winding on that leg.

This tends to force the ground-fault current to have equal division in the three lines and accounts for
the low impedance of the transformer-to-ground currents.

A star-delta-connected three-phase transformer or transformer bank can also be utilized for system
grounding. As in the case of the zig-zag grounding transformer, the usual application is to accomplish
reactance or resistance-type grounding of an existing ungrounded system. The delta connection must be
closed to provide a path for the zero sequence current and the delta voltage rating is selected for any
standard value. A resistor inserted between the primary neutral and ground, as shown in Fig.7 provides
a means for limiting ground-fault current to a level satisfying the criteria for resistance-grounded
systems. For this arrangement, the voltage rating of the star winding need not be greater than the
normal line-to-neutral system voltage. For high-resistance grounding it is sometimes more practical or
economical to apply the limiting resistor in the secondary delta connection. Three single-phase
distribution class transformers are used, with the primary star neutral connected directly to ground. The
secondary delta is closed through a resistor which effectively limits the primary ground-fault current to
the desired low level. For this alternative application, the voltage rating of each of the transformer
windings forming the star primary should not be less than the system line-to-line voltage.

The rating of a grounding transformer, measured as the available system energy in kilovoltamperes, is
equal to rated line-to-neutral voltage in kilovolts times rated neutral current. Most grounding
transformers are designed to carry their rated current for a limited time only, such as 10.0 s or 1.0 min.
Consequently, they are much smaller in size than an ordinary three-phase continuously rated
transformer with the same rating for the available system energy measured in kilovoltamperes.

A grounding transformer should be connected to the system in such a manner that the system will
always be grounded. Fig 8a shows a grounding transformer with an individual line breaker for
connection directly to the main bus of the system. Fig 8b shows a means of connecting a grounding
transformer to a system without an individual line breaker. In this case, the grounding transformer is
connected between the main transformer bank and its breaker. If the grounding ransformer is connected
as shown in Fig 8b, there should be one grounding transformer for each delta-connected bank
supplying power to the system, or enough grounding transformers to assure at least one grounding
transformer on the system at all times. When the grounding ransformer is so connected, it is included
in the protective system of the main transformer.

If all grounded sources should trip, and the system grounding connection lost, any ungrounded sources
should be disconnected automatically. Thus ungrounded sources would be tripped if all grounding
transformer breakers in arrangement of Fig 8a should trip. If there are three or more transformers
 20

feeding a bus and only two of these transformers have grounding sources, the ungrounded transformers
would be disconnected automatically if those with grounding transformers as per Fig 8b should have
their associated breakers opened.

1.9.2 Suggested Grounding Methods, Low-Voltage systems (600 V and Below)

Low voltage systems are generally operated solidly grounded, one reason for this is that no expense is
necessary for reactors. Another reason is that low-voltage switchgear almost universally uses direct-
acting series trip devices, such devices may require high current magnitudes to detect faults to ground,
unless supplementary ground- fault relaying is used.

For these reasons, solid grounding is used extensively on systems rated 600 V and below. For such
systems, it is especially important to provide low-impedance return paths for ground-fault currents in
the equipment grounding network. Provided the ground-fault current is not limited to a value less than
the pickup value of the circuit breaker instantaneous trip, damage from high-fault-current magnitude is
minimized because low-voltage protective devices are extremely fast in operation. If the fault is an
arcing one, and the root-mean-square current is less than that required to operate the circuit breaker
instantaneous or short-time trip element, then ground-fault sensing may be required to prevent the
burndown of equipment, as indicated earlier in this section.

1.9.3 Medium-Voltage Systems (3,3 to 33 kV)

Medium-voltage industrial power systems are usually resistance grounded. In this range of system
voltages, limiting ground-fault current is highly desirable in the usual industrial power system.
Connection of rotating machines directly at voltages of up to 11 kV is common, hence resistance
grounding is used to reduce the damage which may result due to a ground fault in the machine
windings.

In medium-voltage systems, when ground-fault protection is desired, it is provided by using a standard

overcurrent relay connected in the residual circuit of the phase-current transformers or to a window or
doughnut-type (zero-sequence) core-balance current transformer which encloses all the phase
conductors. When any loads are connected line to neutral, then the window or doughnut-type current
transformers must also enclose the neutral conductor. The cable sheath earthing strap must not pass
through the CT. Positive tripping can be accomplished with low magnitudes of ground-fault current.
For this reason resistance grounding is commonly used except for those cases where the size of the
system is so small that the maximum available fault current is not too high to be objectionable.

At the present time, there are 3,3-11 kV systems in operation without the system neutral adequately
grounded. More and more engineers, however, are applying resistance neutral grounding to these
systems.The conventional method is to provide sufficient ground-fault current to enable selective
relaying through the application of residual or ground relays.

Some design engineers feel that it is desirable to ground the system neutral so that the ground-fault
current is of a very small magnitude, just enough to stabilize the neutral to prevent severe transient
overvoltages upon the occurrence of restriking grounds. This does not cause a load shutdown due to a
ground fault, while at the same time it eliminates the transient-overvoltage hazard. It does not,
however, eliminate all types of overvoltage. The value of ground-fault current permitted to flow
should be the same as, or somewhat greater than, the total system current (3x Ico) resulting from the
capacitive coupling to ground inherent in all elements of the system. Capacitively coupled-to-ground
elements include cables, overhead lines, transformer and rotating machine windings, surge capacitors
 21

(with their star point earthed), and power factor capacitors, Expressed in another manner, the kilowatt
rating of the resistor should be the same as, or somewhat greater than, the total available system
charging energy to ground measured in kilovoltamperes. The high-resistance grounding practice could
be employed with the circuits as shown in Fig.8. The only difference in the various methods of
resistance grounding is the amount of ground-fault current that flows. Where selective ground relaying
is required, considerably higher values of ground-fault current are required.

1.9.4 High-voltage Systems (Above 66kv)

Systems above 66kv are nearly always effectively grounded, because these are usually transmission
circuits with open lines in which, in most cases, grounded-neutral service surge arresters are desirable
for better overvoltage protection and lower cost. In addition, rotating equipment is seldom connected
directly to these systems; hence limiting ground-fault currents to prevent burning of laminations is a
less important factor than in medium-voltage systems. In addition, voltages above 11kv are not usually
carried inside buildings, hence personnel hazards due to high fault currents are not a factor. Finally, the
cost of resistors for resistance grounding at these voltages is high.

The use of partially or fully graded insulation of the HV windings of transformers also requires that the
associated system is effectively earthed to make full use of grading.

1.10 Criteria for Limiting-Transient-0vervoltages (See Ref,12)

Transient overvoltages can be limited effectively to safe values if the following criteria are observed:

(1) In resistance-grounded systems, the resistor ground-fault current should be at least equal to, but
preferably greater than, the charging current of the system.

(2) In reactance-grounded systems the ratio of Xo/X1 should be 10 or less, where Xo is the zero-
sequence inductive reactance of the system including that of the neutral reactance and X1 is the
positive-sequence inductive reactance of the system.

(3) Where a combination of grounding transformer and neutral- grounding resistor is used, the
grounding transformer impedance should be low relative to the neutral resistance. The ratio of
Ro/Xo should be equal to or greater than 2, where Ro is the zero- sequence resistance of the
circuit, including the neutral resistor, and Xo is the zero-sequence inductive reactance of the
circuit, including that of the transformer and resistor.

1.11 Selection of System Grounding Points

1.11.1 Ground at Each Voltage Level

It is necessary to ground at each voltage level to achieve the advantages of neutral grounding in all
parts of the system. (See Fig.9) For example, if the 11kV system in this diagram were not grounded,
this level would have all the characteristics of an ungrounded system; at the same time, the 33-kV and
380- volt levels would have the characteristics of grounded-neutral systems. Each voltage level may be
grounded at the neutral lead of a generator, power transformer bank, or grounding transformer. Any
generator or transformer used for grounding should, as far as possible, be one which is always
connected to the system. Alternatively, a sufficient number of generators or transformers should be
grounded to ensure there is at least one ground connection on the system at all times.
 22

1.11.2 Ground at the Power Source and Not at the Load

The use of an available neutral at the load point, such as a star- delta step-down transformer or a star-
connected motor, is not recommended as a point for system grounding. The principal disadvantage is
that a number of these load neutrals must be grounded to ensure that the system remains grounded if
one or more of these loads is out of service.

Consequently, ground-fault current may be excessively high when all grounded points are in service.
Since power sources are fewer in number than loads and are less likely to be disconnected, they are
preferred as grounding points. (See Fig 10.)

Other disadvantages of grounding at the load are the following:

(1) Standard low-voltage unit substations have delta-connected primaries; therefore, special
transformers are required if the primaries are to be used as grounding points.

(2) Since the ground-fault current is dependent on the number of feeders or grounding points in
operation, it may vary widely depending on system operating conditions. This makes selective
relaying more difficult and may require additional directional ground relaying to avoid false
tripping of healthy feeder circuits.

1.11.3 Ground Each Major Source Bus Section

When there are two or more major source bus sections, each section should have at least one grounded-
neutral point, since the bus-tie circuit may be open. If there are two or more power sources per bus
section, there should be provision for grounding at least two sources on each section.

1.11.4 Neutral Circuit Arrangements

When the method of grounding and the grounding point have been selected for a particular power
system, the next question to consider is how many generator or transformer neutrals will be used for
grounding and whether (1) each neutral will be connected independently to ground, or (2) a neutral bus
with single-ground connection will be established.

1.11.5 Single Power Source

When a power system has only one source of power (generator or transformer), grounding may be
accomplished by connecting the source neutral to earth either directly or through a neutral impedance.
Provision of a switch or circuit breaker to open the neutral circuit is not necessary because neutral
circuits have practically zero potential with respect to ground except during the short interval of a fault,
hence breakdowns are not likely. Also, it is not desirable to operate the system ungrounded by having
the ground connection open while the generator or transformer is in service. In addition, the neutral
switching equipment greatly increases the cost of grounding.

In the event that some means of disconnecting the ground connection is required in a particular case, a
metal-clad circuit breaker should be used rather than an open disconnect switch for indoor installations.
The latter is hazardous to personnel if a ground fault should occur at the time the switch is opened or
closed.
 23

1.11.6 Multiple Power Sources

When there are only a few generators or power transformer banks at a station, individual neutral
impedances are frequently used. With this arrangement, the neutral of each generator or main
transformer bank is connected directly to its neutral impedance without intervening switching
equipment. No special operating instructions are required since each impedance is automatically
connected whenever this source is disconnected.

Where only two sources are involved, use of individual neutral impedances is preferable to the use of a
common ground impedance. When several sources are involved, however, the ground current is
increased each time a source is added and may be raised to levels which are undesirably high.

In the case of resistance grounding, each resistor must be rated for sufficient current to ensure
satisfactory relaying when operating independently. Consequently, the total ground current with several
resistors will be several times the minimum required for effective relaying.

When individual resistors are used, circulation of third-harmonic currents between paralleled
generators is not a problem since the resistance limits the circulating current to negligible values.

When there are more than two or three generators or power-supply transformer banks at one station, it
is possible to use only one resistor. Each power source is then connected to the resistor through a
neutral bus and neutral switching equipment. This arrangement keeps the ground-fault current to a
practical minimum, since the ground current from the station is never greater than can be supplied
through a single resistor. It also ensures the same value of ground current regardless of the number of
generators or transformers in use and simplifies ground relaying.

The primary purpose of the neutral breakers is to isolate the generator or transformer neutrals from the
neutral bus when the source is taken out of service, because the neutral bus is energized during ground
faults. This additional switching complication must be weighed against the increase in ground fault
curent with many sources

Circuit breakers are preferred to disconnecting switches for indoor installations to assure safety to
personnel. If disconnecting switches are used, as in some outdoor installations, they should be elevated
or metal enclosed and interlocked in such a manner as to prevent their operation except when the
transformer primary and secondary switches or generator main and field breakers are open.

It is sometimes desirable to operate with only one generator neutral breaker closed at a time to
eliminate any circulating harmonic or zero-sequence currents. When the generator whose neutral is
grounded is to be shut down, another generator is grounded by means of its neutral breaker before the
main and neutral breaker of the first one is opened. However, with similar generators and reasonably
equal load division, circulating currents are negligible, and it is often found practical to operate with
neutral breakers of two or more generators closed. This simplifies operating procedure and increases
assurance that the system will be grounded at all times.

In the case of multiple transformers, all neutral isolating devices may be normally closed because the
presence of delta-connected windings (which are nearly always present on at least one side of each
transformer) minimizes circulation of harmonic current between transformers.

When total ground-fault currents with several individual resistors would exceed about 1000 to 4000 A,
it is suggested that neutral switchgear and a single resistor be considered for resistance-grounded
systems.
 24

1.12 Calculation of Ground-Fault Currents

The magnitude of current which will flow in the event of a line- to-ground fault on a grounded system
is usually determined by the reactance of the grounded apparatus, the reactance of the lines or cables
leading to the fault, and the resistance and reactance of the ground return path including any intentional
grounding resistance or reactance. For interconnected systems, calculation of the current may be rather
complicated. For simpler cases, an approximation of the available fault current may be obtained.

1.12.1 Resistance Grounding

When a single line-to-ground fault occurs on a resistance- grounded system, a voltage appears across
the resistor (or resistors), nearly equal to the normal line-to-neutral voltage of the system.

In low resistance grounded systems, the resistor current is approximately equal to the current in the
fault. Thus, the current is practically equal to line-to-neutral voltage divided by the number of ohms of
resistance used. Resistors have a voltage rating equal to line-to-neutral voltage and an ampere rating
equal to the current which flows when this voltage is applied to the resistor. Thus, for example, a
maximum ground- fault current of approximately 1000 A will be obtained on a system when using a
1000-A resistor. This very simple method of calculating the ground-fault current is only suitable when
the ground-fault current is small compared to the three-phase fault current.

The method just outlined applies to faults on lines or buses or at the terminals of machines or
transformers. If the fault is internal to a rotating machine or transformer, the ground-fault current will
be less. The reduction in current is primarily due to the intemal voltage of the apparatus. In the case of
star- connected equipment, this internal voltage is at full value at the terminals and is zero at the
neutral. If the fault occurs at the neutral of any apparatus, no voltage will appear across the system
grounding resistor, so the fault current will be zero. At intermediate points in the winding between the
neutral and a terminal, the fault current will be intermediate between zero and the current due to a
terminal fault. For example, at a point 10 percent of the winding length from neutral, the ground-fault
current will be approximately 10 percent of the value for a terminal fault. For a fault anywhere
between this point and a terminal, the current will be more than 10 percent of the amount for a terminal
fault.

In the case of delta-connected machines, the internal voltage to neutral may be considered to be 100
percent at the terminals and 50 percent at the midpoint of the windings. The midpoints have the lowest
potential with respect to the electric neutral of any part of the winding. Therefore, a ground fault at any
point in the winding will produce a ground-fault current of 50 percent or more of the line terminal fault
value.

1.12.2 Reactance Grounding

In a reactance-grounded system with a single line-to-ground fault, the ground-fault current may be
computed from the following expression, where resistance may usually be neglected:
.
Ig = 3E / [X1 + X2 + X0 + 3 (XN + XGP )] (Eq 1 ) where

X1 = system positive-sequence reactance in ohms per phase

 25

X2 = system negative-sequence reactance in ohms per phase

X0 = system zero-sequence reactance in ohms per phase

XN = reactance of neutral grounding reactor in ohms

XGP = reactance of the ground return circuits in ohms

E = line-to-neutral voltage in volts

Ig = ground-fault current in amperes

1.12.3 Solid Grounding

In a system with a solid neutral connectionto ground, the ground fault current for a single line to
ground fault may be calculated from the followingequation:-

Ig = 3E / [X1 + X2 + X0 + 3 XGP] (Eq 2 )

where the symbols have the same meaning given above

1.13 Selection of Grounding Equipment Ratings

(See IEEE Std 32-1972, Neutral Grounding Devices)

Grounding resistors, reactors, and grounding transformers are normally rated to carry current for a
limited time only. The standard time interval rating usually applicable with relays arranged to protect
the grounding equipment is 10 s.

The voltage rating of a grounding resistor should be the line- to-neutral voltage rating of the system.

The insulation class of a reactor is determined by the system line-to-neutral voltage. The voltage rating
may be less than line-to-neutral voltage and is calculated by multiplying the rated current by the
impedance of the reactor.

The voltage rating of a grounding transformer should be system line-to-line voltage.

Grounding resistors are rated in terms of the current that will flow through the resistor with rated
resistor voltage applied.

The rated current of a grounding reactor is the thermal current rating. It is the root-mean-square neutral
current in amperes that the reactor will carry for its rated time without exceeding standard temperature
limitations.

If a grounding transformer neutral is solidly connected to ground, the current that will flow during a
ground fault is primarily determined by the reactances of the grounding transformer and the system to
which it is connected. When a resistor is used between neutral and ground, the current rating of the
grounding transformer is based on the resistor rated current. In either case, the transformer is rated to
carry the required current for rated time without exceeding its rated temperature limits. Many system
grounding devices are short-time rated. Care must be exercised in their application to ensure that
current will be automatically interrupted before the thermal limits of components are exceeded.
 26

Due consideration must be taken in systems using Auto Reclose on lines, as the total time for all faults
before a lock out must be used in calculating thermal requirements.

1.13.1 Resistor Ratings

For low-resistance grounded-neutral systems, the determination of the resistor value in ohms, thus the
magnitude of groundfault current, is based on the following:

(1) Providing sufficient current for satisfactory performance of the system relaying scheme.

(2) Limiting ground-fault current to a value which will minimize damage at the point of fault
without resulting in system overvoltages.

In most cases, the ground-fault current is limited by the neutral resistor to a value considerably less
than that which would flow for a three-phase fault. To determine the minimum ground-fault current
required, a diagram of the system must be available, giving ratings of current transformers and types of
relays for each circuit. This diagram should include consideration of future changes.

The magnitude of ground-fault current must be sufficient for operation of all relays which furnish
ground-fault protection. In general, if the current is high enough to operate the relays on the larger
circuits, it will be adequate for the smaller circuits. The ground currents required for satisfactory
operation of various types of relays, expressed in terms of current transformer rating, are given in Table
III. Note that the ground-fault current under all system operating conditions must equal or exceed the
minimum required for relaying each circuit connected to the system. This value is established by
selecting the highest of those currents which meet the requirements of the several conditions set forth
in Table III.

Table III Selection of a Grounding Resistor

Type of Relaying
Equipment Protected Ground Overcurrent % Differential % Other %
Star connected 100 100 *
generators and motors
Delta connected 40 40
generators, motors and
transformers
L:ines and cables 20 # ** Pilot wire - 100
Current balance - 100
Buses 50 &
Note:- Values given are minimum recommended ground fault currents in percentage of rated primary
current of the associated CTs

* If ground fault differential is added to the generator, the ground fault current may be
limited to lower values (If other sytem requirements permit)

** When phase relays must be set to wait for other breakers to clear any through phase-to-
phase fault, required ground current may have to be as high as 50% of the CT rating to
prevent maltripping.

# Where ground overcurrent relays for lines and cables also serve for back up protection
for machines or transformers, this value should be 100%.
 27

& Based on current differential. If voltage differential is provided, ground fault current
may be limited to lower values.

1.13.2 Reactor Ratings

The reactance of a neutral-grounding reactor should be chosen to limit the ground current and the
current in the faulted phase to the desired value. In order to minimize transient overvoltages, the
ground-fault current must not be less than 25 percent of three-phase fault current.

This corresponds to a ratio of X0 / X1 = 10.

For reactance grounding of generators, the current in any winding must not exceed the three-phase fault
current. This corresponds to a ratio of X0 / X1 = 10. This establishes the criteria for maximum and
minimum value of neutral reactance. If the neutral reactance is selected in accordance with the
following relationship, the current in the winding of the faulted phase will not exceed the three-phase
current of the machine regardless of system reactance (ref 9, chs 5-7):

XN = (X1 - X0 ) / 3 (Eq 3)

where :-
X1 = system positive-sequence reactance in ohms per phase

X0 = system zero-sequence reactance in ohms per phase

XN = reactance of neutral grounding reactor in ohms

However, the current that flows through the generator neutral reactor itself is not independent of
system constants and may often exceed the three-phase fault current of the machine. The current rating
of a neutral reactor is determined by the number and characteristics of system sources and whether they
are grounded or ungrounded.

This rating (the thermal-current rating) can be calculated by the following equation:

Ig = 3E / [X1 + X2+ X0+ 3 (XN + XGP) (Eq 4)

where:-
X1 = system positive-sequence reactance in ohms per phase

X2 = system negative-sequence reactance in ohms per phase

X0 = system zero-sequence reactance in ohms per phase

XN = reactance of neutral grounding reactor in ohms

XGP = reactance of the ground return circuits in ohms

E = line-to-neutral voltage in volts

 28

Ig = ground-fault current in amperes

NOTE:- For X1 of generators and synchronous motors, use transient reactance. For X2 of
generators, synchronous and induction motors, use subtransient reactance.

The neutral-grounding reactor should be selected to carry the available current under all practical
operating conditions. With any given condition of connected grounded-neutral sources, the addition of
ungrounded-neutral sources and loads will increase the current flow through the grounded-neutral
connections.

1.13.3 Grounding-Transformer Ratings

The electrical specifications of a grounding transformer are the following:

Voltage the line-to-line voltage of the system

Current the maximum neutral current

Time the transformer is usually designed to carry rated current for a short time such as 10 or
60 s; for high-resistance grounding, the rating may need to be continuous.

Reactance this quantity is a function of the initial symmetrical available system three-phase short-
circuit energy measured in kilovoltamperes

Determination of grounding-transformer reactance, when used to effect reactance-type grounding, is

based on the following criterion:

The X0 / X1 ratio should not exceed 10, and preferably not exceed 3, in order to eliminate the
possibility of transient overvoltages from a forced current zero interruption. This maximum limitation
of 3 for the X0 / X1 ratio, will also satisfy the criteria for an effectively grounded system and permit the
application of line-to-ground voltage rated surge arresters for greater economy and protection. The
ratios specified must be met at any location in the system where the reduced-rating arresters are to be
applied.

In a system having a grounding transformer, its reactance is the principal part of Xo in the preceding
criterion. Also, the positive-sequence reactance X1 is equal to the reactance of the system to initial
symmetrical root-mean-square three-phase short-circuit current. The value of X1 used in these limiting
ratios should be based on subtransient reactance of rotating machines and the system configuration or
connections which will result in the maximum available three-phase short-circuit energy measured in
kilovoltamperes. Thus, the grounding-transformer reactance is a function of the initial symmetrical
system three-phase short-circuit energy measured in kilovoltamperes.

In a system otherwise ungrounded, the grounding-transformer reactance Xgt in ohms per phase required
to provide any specified X0 / X1 ratio is given by the following expression:

X0 / X1 x EL2 x 1000
__________________________________________________________
System Symnetrical Three-Phase Short-circuit Energy in Kilovoltamperes (Eq 5)

where EL is the line-to-line voltage.

 29

When a grounding transformer is solidly grounded, care should be taken that its reactance is selected at
a value low enough to provide sufficient fault current for tripping relays and circuit breakers.

1.14 AutoTransformers Power

Autotransformers are quite frequently used in electric utility power transmission and distribution
systems. Their use in industrial power systems as a part of the power distribution system is relatively
infrequent. Autotransformers are quite common, however, in control and utilization equipment.
Systems using autotransformers may be subject to dangerous fundamental- frequency overvoltage
during system faults or to high-frequency or steep wave front transient overvoltages on the lines
originating from lightning or switching surges. In general, solidly grounding the neutral of the
autotransformer is a satisfactory means of eliminating overvoltages. The disadvantages of solid-neutral
grounding is that third-harmonic currents and telephone interference may become excessive in certain
cases. These harmonic problems can usually be eliminated by the use of a tertiary delta on the
autotransformer.

Where auto transformers are used as step-up or step-down transformers in 11 and 22kV systems,
problems arise when the auto transformer neutral is grounded in otherwise resistively earthed systems.
This additional ground poit must comply with the designed fault current limitation and the associated
protection must allow for the bi-directional flow of fault current.

In many cases the only solution is to leave the neutral ungrounded as the complication of the protection
cannot be easily and cost effectively solved. The zero sequence impedance of the un grounded auto
transformer is difficult to determine and may have to be measured on site in order to setb the protection
correctly.

1.15 Systems with Utility Supply

Some industrial systems are directly connected at their operating voltage to utility systems. When such
is the case, the scheme of grounding the industrial system should be properly coordinated with that for
the utility system.

If two systems are interconnected by means of a transformer bank, at least one winding of the bank will
normally be connected in delta, and this delta-connected winding will make each system independent
from the standpoint of grounding.

Generators with unit-connected transformers usually are equipped with high-resistance neutral
grounding for the following purposes:

(1) Minimize transient overvoltages

(2) Provide a positive indication of a ground fault

(3) Limit ground-fault current to a value low enough to permit an orderly shut-down of the
generator without risking severe arc damage.

As in any other high-resistance grounded system, the grounding resistor is chosen to provide ground-
fault current at least as great as the system capacitive charging current. Depending on the system
 30

voltage and ground current, it may be more economical to ground the generator neutral through the
primary of a single phase distribution-type transformer with a low-voltage high-current resistor on the
secondary than to ground the neutral directly through a high-voltage low-current resistor. When a
distribution transformer is used, its primary voltage should be no less than the line-to-neutral voltage of
the generator. In fact, to decrease the transformer-magnetizing inrush current on occurrence of a
ground fault, a transformer rated for full line- to-line voltage is often used. In all cases, the zero-
sequence circuit design should respect the boundary limit of R0 = 2X0 .

Ground faults are detected in this scheme either by a current relay in series with the grounding resistor,
or by a voltage relay in parallel with the resistor. If the voltage-relay sensor is chosen, possible false
operation on third-harmonic voltage, sometimes present, can be avoided by the use of a third-
harmonic- voltage attenuation filter. In either case, no coordination with relays elsewhere in the power
system is needed.

The physical size of the grounding transformer is influenced by the expected duration of ground
current. If the generator will be operated with a ground fault for several hours, the transformer should
be rated to carry ground current continuously. However, the short-time overload capacity of
transformers permits a considerably smaller and less expensive transformer to be used if the generator
is tripped off the line immediately or promptly after a fault is detected.

1.16 Three-Phase Four-Wire Systems

In these systems, single-phase loads are connected between phase conductors and the neutral
conductor. The neutral conductor is insulated over its entire length, except where it is grounded at its
source of supply, in NE systems. There are also systems where there are multiple earths at various
points on an otherwise insulated neutral conductor, ie. PME systems. PME systems can increase the
difficulty of detecting ground faults.

The neutrals of such systems should be grounded such that during a ground fault the voltage between
any phase conductor and ground does not appreciably exceed normal line-to-ground voltage. Four-wire
systems should thus be effectively grounded in such a manner that the ground-fault currents are
approximately equal to three-phase fault currents. This is usually accomplished by direct connection of
transformer bank neutrals to ground without any intentional neutral impedance.

Where the risk to personnel touching the system is small, as with low voltage systems which are
effectively three wire, the use of high resistance or Neutralizer grounding is used to reduce the chance
of outages and to minimise damage at the point of fault. This type of application has to be viewed in
the light of legislation which may prohobit such instalations at low voltage if the risk to personnel is
increased.
 31

1.17 Standards References

The following standards publications were used as references in preparing this lecture and are useful in
the interpretation of its meaning:

ANSI Cl-1971 National Electrical Code (NFPA 70-1971) 2,5

IEEE Std. 32-1972, Neutral Grounding Devices 3

NEMA Std SG 4-1968, AC High-Voltage Circuit Breakers 4

IEEE Std 142-1972 Recozmended Practice for grounding of Industrial & Cozmercial Power Systems
"The IEEE Green Book"

References

(1) AIEE Committee Report. Application Guide for the Grounding of Synchronous Generator
Systems. AIEE Transactions (Power Apparatus and Systems), vol 72, June 1953, pp 517-526.
(2) AIEE Committee Report. Application Guide on Methods of Neutral Grounding of
Transmission Systems. AIEE Transactions (Power Apparatus and Systems), vol 72, Aug 1953,
pp 663-668.
(3) AIEE Committee Report. Present-Day Grounding Practices on Power Systems; Third AIEE
Report on System Grounding. AIEE Transactions, vol 66, pp 1525-1551.
(4) ARBERRY, J.P.E. The Use of 600-Volt and 460-Volt Power Systems with Grounded Neutrals.
AIEE National Power Conference Proceedings, Pittsburgh, Pa., Apr 1950.
(5) KAUFMANN, R.H., and PAGE, J.C. Arcing-Fault Protection for Low-Voltsge Power
Distribution Systems - Nature of the Problem. AIEE Transactions (Power Apparatus and
Systems), vol 79, June 1960, pp 160-167.
(6) SHIELDS, F.J. The Problem of Arcing Faults in Low-Voltage Power Distribution Systems.
IEEE Transactions on Industry and General Applications, vol IDA-3, Jan/Feb 1967, pp 15-25.
7) FORBES, B.G. Locating Grounds on 480-Volt, 3-phase Delta Systems, Power Generation, Sept
1949, pp 60-61.
(8) FOX, F.K., GROTTA, H.J, and TIPTON, C.H. High-Resistance Grounding of 1400-Volt Delta
Systems with Ground-Fault Alarm and Traceable Signal to Fault. IEEE Transactions on
Industry and General Applications, vol IGA-1, Sept/Oct 1965 pp 366-372.
(9) BEEMAN, D.L, Ed. Industrial Power Systems Handbook. New York, McGraw-Hill, 1955,
chs.5-7.
(10) VAUGHAN, H.R. Protection of Industrial Plants Against Insulation Breakdown and
consequential Damage. AIEE Transactions, vol 65, Aug/Sept 1946, pp 592-596.
(11) AIEE committee Report. Application of Ground-Fault Neutralizers. Electrical Engineering, vol
72, July 1953, pp 606.
(12) Electrical Transmission and Distribution Reference Book, fourth edition, Westinghouse
Electric Corporation, Sept 1950, chs 11 and 19.
(13) Neutral Grounding in HV Transmission, Ilillheim and Waters - Elsevier.
(14) Transients in Power Systems. Harold A. Petersen, ch,10 Dover.
(15) Transient Performance of Electric Power Systems, Rudenberg chapters 48 and 49.
(16) Circuit Analysis of Ac Power Systems. Vol I. - Edith clarke. Whiley.

Additional References

BARNETT, H.G. Why Ground Low-Voltage Distribution Systems? Mill and Factory, May 1951.
 32

BEEMAN, D.L. System Neutral Grounding in Industrial Plants. AIEE National Power Conference
Proceedings. Pittsburgh, Pa., Apr 1950.

BLOOMQUIST, W.C. Grounding of Industrial Systems, General Electric Review. Aug 1951.

BRERETON, D.S, and HICKOK, H.N. System Neutral Grounding for Chemical Plant Power Systems.
AIEE Transactions (Applications and Industry) vol 74, Nov 1955, pp 315-320.

JOHNSON, A.A. Grounding Principles and Practice III: Generator- Neutral Grounding Devices.
Electrical Engineering, vol 64, Mar 1945, pp 92-99.

Interim Report of American Research Committee on Grounding. News Bulletin of the Internaitonal
Association of Electrical Inspectors. Mar 1944.

STRONG, W.F. Neutral Versus Corner-of-the-Delta Grounding. Electrical World., Sept 25, 1950.

THACKER, H.B. Grounded Versus Ungrounded Low-Voltage AC Systems. Association of Iron and
Steel Engineers Paper and Discussion. Iron and Steel Engineer, Apr 1954, pp 65-72.

1.18 Symbols Used

R0 = Zero sequence resistance of grounding path

X0 = Zero sequence reactance of grounding path
Z0 = Zero sequence impedance of grounding path
X1 = Positive sequence reactance to grounding point
R1 = Positive sequence resistance to grounding point
Z1 = Positive sequence impedance to grounding point
Xc0 = Zero sequence capacitive reactance of system
RN = Neutral grounding resistor resistance
XN = Neutral grounding resistor
 33

2.0 PROTECTION ASPECTS OF LIMITED EARTH FAULT

2.1 RESTRICTED EARTH FAULT (REF)

The SABS recommendations are for the use of resistance earthing, with a limit of 300A per
transformer and a total of 900A with multiple transformers in parallel.

With larger transformers, typically 20 MVA at 6.6 kV, the CT ratio would be possibly 2000/1.

A problem which needs to be covered with correct design is the requirement to cover 90% of the
winding by use of REF (see fig 11). With the typical large CT ratio given above, use of a 5% current
relay (with stabilising resistor) would only allow pick up at 100 amps, ignoring CT magnetising
current. This is inadequate for covering 90% of the winding as with one transformer and 300A E/F
available, only 66% of the winding is protected.

The typical REF relay using 20mA pick must be used, as this has a primary pick up of typically 50A
with CT magnetising current. This is still only 85% coverage, but is acceptable. However, REF for a
40 MVA transformer is more difficult.

2.2 Pilot wire protection (PW)

As given above, PW protection also can have a sensitivity problem (see fig 12). As the typical relay
has a worst case sensitivity of 25% on Blue phase, use with a 600/1 CT would result in a pick up of
only 150A which is not desireable.

This problem is made more unacceptable where the relay does not combine the differential current
from both sides to create the operating quantity. Thus for a fault at the remote end of two or more
parallel feeders, the pick current could be greater than 300A and no operation would occur for earth
faults.

2.3 Multiple Earths When using Auto Transformers

The accepted practice of using low cost auto transformers to step up or down between 11 and 22 kV
has resulted in the transformers being positioned at some remote position from the substation with the
protection.

Where sensitive earth fault protection is used for overhead lines, maloperation can occur when these
auto transformers have their neutrals earthed (see fig 13). The fault on a line causes earth fault infeeds
from all electrically connected earths. Even though the auto transformer may not have a delta winding
for a low impedance source, it can supply sufficient current, typically more than 4 amps, which will
cause a healthy line with it’s auto transformer to trip incorrectly.

Either no auto transformer neutrals should be earthed when on lines or double winding transformers
with suitably low zero sequence impedance for earthing the secondary system must be used.

2.4 Sensitive Earth Fault Relays used on Rings or Hospital Bypas Busbars

Where Sensitive Earth Fault (SEF) relays are used, maloperation can occur when a ring or Bypass
busbar is closed (see fig 14). This is caused by differences in impedance of especially over head lines
and busbars. This difference between phase impedances cuases an apparent earth fault current in both
 34

circuits, but of opposite direction. This primary residual current will cause sensitve earth fault relays to
mal-operate. The sensitve earth fault needs to be switched off when such switching is undertaken.

With limited earth fault currents and the associated increase in sensitity of relay settings, the above
malfunction can also occur for normal earth fault relays, when additional impedance such as a poor
link contact occurs.

This is usually associated with closure of the “ring” as the current is already flowing in the previous
system configuration. The line volt drops are small and are unable to break down a surface fim,
causing a phase to be “open circuit” and thus creating primary residual currents.

For the case where sensitive earth fault protection must be applied to parallel OHL feeders, an
additional monitoring relay may be necessary to overcome mal-tripping.

2.5 Sensitive Settings with Earth Fault Relays of Low Burden

The modern static relays have very low burdens. This has created a problem with transient stability for
motor starting and for transformer magnetising in rush (see fig 15)

With low earth fault currents, protection has to be set with adequate sensitivity. Although the current
is limited and fault damage is thus reduced, faults should still be clreared as soon as possible so that an
earth fault does not develop into a phase-phase fault.

This combination of sensitivity, fast operation and low burden causes the relay to malfunction because
of CT saturation. STABILISING RESISTORS must be used in many of these applications.

2.6 Contactor Fault Breaking Capability

For many motor circuits fused contactors are used when the switching duty is high.

As the contactor has a limited fault breaking capability, the High Set instantaneous element of
protection relays is disabled. With limited earth fault, the contactor is fully capable of breaking earth
fault current. However, if the fault is a phase-phase-earth fault, a fast earth fault relay could drop the
contactor out such that it attempts to break the phase phase fault current, which could damage the
contactor.

A possible solution is to delay the earth fault relay, but this has a cascade effect on all upstream
protection with regarg to increased time. The preferred method is to use relays with an internal block
funtion if any phase exceeds typically 4x full load current, where overcurrent protection will correct
protect the circuit.

2.7 Maltripping Caused By Capacitance

Again with the more sensitive settings used with limited earth fault ciurrent, care must be taken with
the current derived from cable capacitance or wave shaping capacitors.

Wave shaping capacitors of various forms are often used for the protection of motors against
transients, with typical values of 0.3 uF.

At 11 kV, the typical earth fault infeed from capacitance could be:-

Wave Shaping Capacitor (0.3uF) 1.8 amps

 35

4 kM 120mm² PEX cable (1.33 uF) 7.96 amps

For the above, the earth fault protection must not be too sensitive, as maloperation will occur,
especially where ring core Cts are used to improve sensitivity.

2.9 High Voltage Lines With Multiple Earthed Transformer Tees

Where 132 kV rings are used in Municipalities, the system is often used without full switching stations
(see fig 16) This results in tees off the lines to feed step down transformers, which have the 132 kV
neutral earthed as the transformer insulation is usually fully graded.

Each of these earthed neutrals feeds earth fault current into the system during an earth fault on the HV
system.

The source substation for the line thus sees only part of the total earth fault current and this can result
in the earth fault relay being unable to correctly clear the fault.

Various methods are used to allow correct operation to occur, but many of these compromises may
require sequential tripping of tee breakers until the source breaker correctly trips. Fault throwing at a
point near the fault is also a possibility, but is not a recommended practice on high fault level lines.

The number of teed (earthed) feeders off a ring should be limited with the size of the transformers earth
fault contribution also being taken into account.
 36

A
A B
B
GROUND

C
PHASE TO GROUND C
CAPACITANCE
(a) UNGROUNDED SYSTEM

A
A B
B
GROUND

C
C

(b) GROUNDED STAR SYSTEM

A
A B
B

C
GROUND C

(c) UNGROUNDED DELTA SYSTEM

VOLTAGES TO GROUND UNDER STEADY STATE CONDITIONS

FIGURE 1
 37

Xco

STRAY ZERO
SEQUENCE
CAPACITANCE

EARTHING DEVICE
(USUALLY A
VOLTAGE
TRANSFORMER)

(a) SYSTEM SUBJECT TO FERRO RESONANCE

A
V A-G INVERTED NEUTRAL
NORMAL
SYSTEM
V B-G
NEUTRAL
GROUND
V C-G

C B

(c) UNGROUNDED DELTA SYSTEM

VOLTAGES TO GROUND UNDER STEADY STATE CONDITIONS

FIGURE 2
38
39
 40

N Xo

(a) UNGROUNDED

N Xo

(b) SOLIDLY GROUNDED

Xo

X = 3x X
N 0 N

N Xo
X
N 0
X
N

(c) REACTANCE GROUNDED

NEUTRAL REACTOR
or
PETERSEN COIL

GROUNDING METHODS

FIGURE 4
 41

Xo
N
X
N 0

NEC Xo

X
N 0

(d) REACTANCE GROUNDED

GROUNDING TRANSFORMER

Xo

R = 3x R
N 0 N

N
Xo R
N 0
R
N

(e) RESISTANCE
GROUNDED

GROUNDING METHODS

FIGURE 4
 42

TRANSFORMER I
b

I
C c
B

N I c I b

I
c
I I
n b G

A
I
n

GROUND-FAULT
NEUTRALIZER
I
n
I n I b I c

V NA
V BA V NA V CA

I
c
I b +I c 2In

I b +I c

I
b

FIG. 5 GROUND-FAULT-CURRENT PATTERN IN SYSTEM

GROUNDED BY MEANS OF A GROUND-FAULT NEUTRALIZER

DGD0001
 43

LINE LEADS

NEUTRAL LEAD

SCHEMATIC DIAGRAM OF CONNECTIONS

FIG. 6a CONNECTIONS OF THREE-PHASE ZIG-ZAG

GROUNDING TRANSFORMER

NEUTRAL

LEAD

LINE
LEADS

WINDINGS SHOWN ON CORE

FIG. 6b CONNECTIONS OF THREE-PHASE ZIG-ZAG

GROUNDING TRANSFORMER

DGD0002
 44

FIG. 7 STAR DELTA TRANSFORMER USED AS

GROUNDING TRANSFORMER

GROUNDING
TRANSFORMER
GROUNDING
RESISTOR

GROUNDING
TRANSFORMER

GROUNDING
RESISTOR

FIG. 8 GROUNDING TRANSFORMER ON A DELTA-CONNECTED

OR GROUNDED POWER SYSTEM
DGD0003
 45

132kV SYSTEM

GROUND REQUIRED HERE TO GROUND

NEUTRAL OF 33kV SYSTEM

33kV SYSTEM

GROUND REQUIRED HERE TO GROUND

NEUTRAL OF 11kV SYSTEM

11kV SYSTEM

GROUND REQUIRED HERE TO GROUND

NEUTRAL OF 380V SYSTEM

380V SYSTEM

FIG. 9 EACH VOLTAGE LEVEL IS GROUNDED INDEPENDENTLY

GROUND
HERE
GROUND
HERE

GROUNDING
TRANSFORMER
DO
NOT
GROUND
HERE

MOTOR

IF POWER SOURCES ARE

DELTA-CONNECTED, ADD
GROUNDING TRANSFORMER
RATHER THAN GROUND
AT LOAD

FIG. 10 GROUND AT THE SOURCE AND NOT AT THE LOAD

DGD0004
 46

66%VPN

1/3 VPN
ONLY 100A =
RN
33%VPN

RN (300A LIMIT)

FIG. 11 REDUCING EARTHFAULT WRT POSITION

OF FAULT ON WINDING

PW PW

150A

600/1

300A

150A

FIG. 12 PW FAILURE TO OPERATE WHEN TOTAL CURRENT

IS NOT USED FOR RELAY OPERATION

DGD0005
 47

SEF

300A

AUTO-TRFR
75A

SEF

FIG. 13 EARTHED AUTO-TRANSFORMER CAN

CAUSE HEALTHY LINE TRIP

E/F

IC =0

POOR LINK
CONTACT

APPARENT

E/F E/F = IC

NO E/F CURRENT
IN THIS RELAY

FIG. 14 MALOPERATION OF BOTH EARTHFAULT RELAYS

WITH A POOR LINK CONTACT IN A CLOSED RING

DGD0006
 48

XIC

Z = CT RESISTANCE

WHEN SATURATED
R
(1-X)I
C

SPLIT OF X AND 1-X DEPENDS

ONLY ON Z OF BLUE PHASE TO
Z OF EARTHFAULT CIRCUIT

FIG. 15 USE OF STABILISING RESISTOR TO PREVENT

EARTHFAULT MALOPERATION WITH LOW BURDEN RELAYS

I E/F SMALL

INFEED INFEED
TOTAL
E/F E/F HIGH

FIG. 16 REDUCTION OF EARTHFAULT CURRENT FROM

SOURCE WITH MULTIPLE LINE TEES
DGD0007