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Company Profile
United Electrical Industries Ltd., Kollam, was incorporated n the year 1950 in
the private sector.It is the first factory in India to manufacture Electricity House Service
Meters. It is located at 3 km south of Kollam. The Company started its manufacturing
activity in technical collaboration with a

world-renowned measuring instrument

manufacturer Messors Aron Engineering Company Ltd., England. It initially started

with the assembly of single-phase meters with imported components for sub assemblies.
The company owes its origin to Shri. K.P.S. Nair, the chief electrical engineer of
Travancore-Cochin State and Shri. Abraham Pothen, an eminent industrialist. Major
shares of the Company were taken over the Kerala Government in 1957 and
reconstituted as a Public Limited Company.
As usual with most industries, this company also had to face certain troubles like
inadequate working capital, labour unrest etc. The company gradually overcome this
and started establishing steady market for the products.

In 1965, a plan of

diversification was initiated and manufacturing of Motor Control Gear was started with
technical collaboration from Mysore Electrical Industries Limited, Bangalore. In the
same year, production of poly phase meters commenced which was developed by
Research and development wing of the Company. The company entered into a technical
collaboration with General Electricity of India Ltd.Calcutta, for manufacturing of oil
and air break circuit breaker up to 22kV rating.The main factory building covers a floor
space of nearly 30,000 sq. Ft. With provision for future additions and expansions. In
addition a parallel wing of nearly 7.500 sq.ft. It accommodated the main Material stores
and fabrication shop. The main factory is divided into 3 basic departments, like Meter
department,Starter department and Machine shop.

The general layouts of each

department permit free and continuous flow of materials with particular stress on
minimum material handling. Again, each department is subdivided in to section with
several built in features and special facilities to make it independent, self contained and
efficient form the point of view of economy, quality control and high standards of
production.The machine shop comprises of press shop, lathe shop & drilling and tool
room, consisting of Mechanical and Hydraulic presses, Automatic lathes, a series of
multiple drilling and tapping machines and special purpose machinery likes Gear
Hopping and coil winging machines. One complete portion is set apart for the plating

and painting of components. The painting section has provision for mass production
both in dipping and Spray painting. The plating section is equipped for Vat and barrel
type plating for nickel, copper, zinc, tin and silver.
Product Profile
The main products of United Electrical Industries Ltd. Are:

High Quality Electro-Mechanical Energy meters

single Phase & Three Phase Electronic Energy Meters
Motor starters(10 Hp to 200 Hp)
Fully automatic auto transformer starter( 10 Hp to 400 Hp)

1.Energy Meters
Energy meters manufactured earlier were mechanical type,which is now almost
replaced by electronic type which has lcd display.For,mechanical type,all parts are
manufactured in unilec itself.But for the construction of LCD,a pcd(printed circuited
mode) is required which is done by keltron .Caliberation test is conducted in
unilec.After caliberation,ultrasonic welding is done and it is sealed and cannot be
opened thereafter.Therefore the major disadvantage is that,if any complaint occurs
the meter has to be replaced.Mechanical EM has a warranty of 10 years whereas
electronic type has only 5 years of warranty
Two types of energy meters produced in this firm are:
1.1. High Quality Electro-Mechanical Energy meters-

Type K VI-M magnetic suspension bearing meters are designed and manufactured to
satisfy the highest standards of accuracy and reliability of energy measurement in
Single Phase AC Circuits. These are designed for tropical climate and fully complies
with IS 13010 (2002) and its latest amendments.

Construction:
The metering elements are completely enclosed in a dust proof mechanically strong,
tamper-proof steel / Polycarbonate cabinet. The termination arrangement has been
provided in a steady bakelite /

Polycarbonate terminal block.

Superior quality

laminated core and copper wire coils are used as voltage and current elements. High
correctivity Ainico VI grade brake magnets with provisions for adjustments are
provided. High quality Ainico VIII suspension bearing is used as lower bearing. Highly
polished hardened stainless steel pin is used as top bearing.

Salient Features

Complies with IS:13010

Highly polished hardened stainless steel pin is used as top bearing

High quality Alnico VIII suspension bearing is used as top bearing

Current Rating : 2.5A -10Amps, 5-20 Amps, 5-30Amps

Class 2 accuracy

RPM :12

Power consumption in voltage circuit : 1 Watt

Superior quality laminated core and copper wire coils are used as voltage and
current elements

Completely enclosed in a dust proof mechanically proof, tamper proof

steel/polycarbonate cabinet

Table : 1.1
Technical Specifications of Electro-Mechanical Energy Meters
Rated Voltage

240 V
2.5-10 Amps

Current rating

5-20 Amps

Reference Frequency
Voltage variation
Starting current

5-30 Amps
50 Hz AC
-40%.+20%
0.5% of basic current
Class 2.0 Minimum variation in error

Accuracy
Frequency variation
RPM
Power consumption in voltage circuit
Display Counter

throughout working range

50Hz.+-5%
12
1 watt
5 digit plus 1 decimal cyclometer type
unidirectional energy register.

1.2. Electronic Energy Meters (single Phase & Three Phase)

Type UEM static meter is designed and manufactured to satisfy the highest
standard of accuracy and reliability of energy measurement in single phase and three
phase circuit. The meter is designed for tropical climate and fully complies with ISI
3779, (1999) REC specification.
Construction:
The meter casing is made of fibre glass reinforced high impact strength polycarbonate.
It is UV (Ultraviolet) stabilized for out- door application. The meter is broadly divided
into base, top cover and terminal cover. The meter base consists of two compartment

ie,. PCB Compartment & Terminal Compartment. In the PCB Compartment brass
terminal suitable upto 40A positioned securely. A synthetic rubber gasket is used
between the top cover and the base to ensure protection against moisture and dust. The
top cover is transparent to facilitate easy and clean reading of counter and display of
other parameters.

Table : 1.2

Technical Specifications of Electronic Energy Meters

Parameters
Model
Display
Standards
Accuracy
Meter Constant
Basic Current
Max. Current (Imx)
Starting Current
Tamper Indication
Power consumption
Operating voltage
Operating frequency
Temperature
Humidity
Effect of External Magnetic
Induction Weight
Power factor

Single Phase
UEM 2B
Stepper Motor Counter
Conforms to ISI3779 (1999)
Class I
3200ImpI/k Wh
5 Amp.
20 Amp.
Less than 0.4% Ib
Reverse current. Earth Load.

Three Phase
UEM 3B
Stepper Motor Counter
Conforms to ISI13779 (1999)
Class I
1280 ImpI/k Wh
10 Amp.
40 Amp.
Less than 0.4% Ib
Reverse current. Earth Load.

Phase/Neutral Reverse
Phase/Neutral Reverse
Less than 1W
Less than 1W
-40% to +20% of Rated -40% to +20% of Rated
voltage
45 Hz to 55 Hz
0C to 55C
95% RH

voltage
45 Hz to 55 Hz
0C to 55C
95% RH

No effect

No effect

Lag. Unity. Lead

Lag. Unity. Lead

Salient Features

Conforms to ISI13779 and CBIP Technical Report No. 88.

Flame retardant and high compact strength Polycarbonate enclosure

Accuracy better than class I

Computerized Calibration

One time life-time calibration. No trimpots used.

Meters perform with low power loss.

Low voltage operation, at 120V AC.

Safety protection against high voltage AC

Meter designed to suit the Indian environmental conditions and all the tamper
features.

2. MOTOR STARTERS
OIL IMMERSED AC MOTOR STARTERS (MCG)
Four types of AC Motor starters produced in this firm are:
2.1 Oil Immersed Star Delta Starter Type NSD

These control gears are available in the range of 10 H.P. to 200 H.P. correct sequence
device incorporated in the unit ensures proper sequence of operation so that the Starter is first
put into the Star position for starting before a quick change over is possible to the Delta position
for running. Manual tripping is provided by a lever on the side od the Starter.Oil dashpot type
overload relays are calibrated from full load to double full load and are easily adjustable. Under
voltage relays open the circuit in case of abnormally low voltage.The contact tips are of
electrolytic copper extrusion, silver plated to prevent corrosion and pitting. These are of selfaligning type and are easily replaceable. The starter is with a sheet metal case and facilities are
provided to fix pedestal type Ammeter.

Salient Features

Available in the range of 10 HP to 200 HP

Manual tripping is provided by a lever on the side of the starter

Contact tips are of electrolytic copper extrusion, silver plated to prevent

corrosion and pitting

Undervoltage relays open the circuit in case of abnormally low voltage

Facilities are provided to fix pedestal type ammeter

For overload tripping magnetic oil dash pot mechanism is used

Suitable for squirral cage induction motors

2.2Oil Immersed Auto Transformer Starter Type ATS

These starters are designed to provide control for A.C. Squirrel

Cage Induction Motors up to 200 K.P., where it is found necessary to minimise the
starting currents and attain a higher starting torque.These starters embody an autotransformer and reduce the current taken by the motor while starting. The starter unit is
separate from the transformer and this eliminates carbonised oil from the starter entering
the auto-transformer oil. Tapping is provided from 40%, 60% and 80% of the voltage to
be supplied to the motor while starting. These starters are of floor mounting type and
facilities are provided for mounting a pedestal type ammeter.
.Salient

Features

Designed to provide control where it is necessary to minimize the starting

currents and attain a higher starting torque

They embody an auto-transformer and reduce the current taken by the motor
while starting

The starter unit is separate from the transformer. This eliminates carbonized oil
from the starter entering the auto-transformer oil

Tapping is provided for 40%, 60%, 80% of the voltage to be supplied

Floor mounting type

Facilities are provided to fix pedestal type ammeter

Suitable for squirrel cage induction motors

2.3 Oil Immersed Slipring Motor Starter Type I & Type II OSR

These starters are available in the range of 10.H.P. to 150.H.P. They have
electrical interlock between the stator and rotor circuits, so that it is not possible to start
the motor can only be started from the full off position. Rotor resistances are of high
grade resistance wires, wound on ceramic tubes.
Oil dashpot type relays control the overload, no-volt releases and trip the starter in
case of low voltage or power failure. The contacts are of electrolytic copper extrusions
of ample size and are silver plated. These are of self-aligning type and are replaceable.
Type II OSR Starters above 60 H.P., will be provided with oil circuit breakers of suitable
range for starter control.

Salient Features

Available as two products - OSR Type I and OSR Type II

Available in the range of 10 HP to 150 HP

For overload tripping magnetic oil dash pot mechanism is used

The UV relay protects the system from abnormally low voltage

Oil immersed U/V coils assure longer life

Manual tripping is provided by a lever on the side of the starter

Provision for cable entry/cable box provided

Rotor resistances suitable for higher starting torque can be provided for stator
rotor starters

Enclosed in sheet metal clad splash-proof enclosure

They have electrical interlock between the stator and rotor circuits, so its not
possible to start the motor unless all the rotor resistances are in circuit

Suitable for slipring motors

Advantages of Oil immersed AC motor starters:

Overload protection: Oil dashpot time lag type magnetic overload relays
calibrated from full load to double full load which are easily adjustable.

Under voltage protection: The UV relay protects the system from abnormally
low voltage through the overload protection device. Remote control for tripping
can be provided, if required. Oil immersed U/V coils assure longer life.

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Electrolytic grade copper contacts: The starter is provided with easily

replaceable oil break contacts.

Manual tripping is provided by a lever at the side of the starter.

Cable arrangement: Provision for cable entry/cable box provided.

Starting torque: Rotor resistance suitable for higher starting torque can be
provided for stator rotor starters.

Spare parts: All spare parts are available from the factory and stockists.

Normal operation at 3 starts per hour.

2.4 Fully automatic auto transformer starter type FAATS

The salient feature of this starter is its automatic switch over to full rated voltage.
The starting current is minimised to attain higher starting torque with the help of an
auto transformer. Tapping is provided for 40%, 60% and 80% of the voltage to be
supplied. The panel consists of a Thermal Overload Relay, Star Contractor with timer
(0.30 Sec.), a Main Contractor and a Run Contractor.

The temperature of the

transformers is set to safe limit using a thermostat. A bimetallic thermal overload relay
is provided for overload protection. Under voltage protection is provided by means of
U/V coils of the contractor connected across supply mains.

The cabinet is

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manufactured out of 10 SWG and 14 SWG sheet. The bus bars are of tinned copper
electrical grade of suitable capacity having R.Y.B colour code.
Fuse units of suitable ratings are provided and indication lamps for ON and
OFF conditions are fixed on the panel. Current in individual phases can be measured
on the Ammeter using the phase selector switch..The major disadvantage is that it is
costly.
Salient Features

Automatic switch over to full rated voltage

Starting current is minimized to attain high starting torque with the help of an
autotransformer

Tapping provided for 40%, 60%, 80% of the voltage to be supplied

The starting time can be set by the user depending upon the application

A bimetallic thermal overload relay is provided for overload protection

Under voltage protection is provided by means of U/V coils of the contactor

connected across supply mains

Cabinet is manufactured out of 10SWG & 14SWG sheet

Ammeter provision for all the phases

Thermostat for the temperature control of overheat of autotransformer

Range available from 10HP to 400HP

Conforming to IS:13947 part 1V/Sec.1

Available in oil cooled and air cooled versions of autotransformers

3.Other Products

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Some of the other products manufactured by the company are :Ab switches,street light
contactors

and water meters. Of these street light contactors supplied to the

coorperation are manufactured only according to the demand.

3.1 AIR BREAK SWITCHES

Air break switches isolate11 kV lines from transformers.

SALIENT FEATURES

11KV 200/400 Amps Triple Pole Gang operated Air Break isolator suitable for
horizontal mounting conforming to IS 9920/1981, 9921/1985 and 2633/1964

Rating 200A/400A, 12 KV

All Ferrous parts are hot dip galvanized

The contact ends are Tin coated

The fixed contact elements are made of extruded electrolytic grade copper flat
with flexible ends

The leakage current passes to earth and not between terminals of the poll or
between polls

The operating mechanism is suitable for normal operation by one man without
undue effort

Switch is permitted to pad locking in both open and close position

Table : 3.1
Technical specifications of Air Break Switches

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Description
Fixed Arcing Horn
11kV 200/400 Amps Triple Pole Gang
operated Air Break Isolator suitable for 8.15mm X 210mm / 270mm long MS
Horizontal Mounting Conforming to IS Galvanized
9920/1981, 9921 and 2633/1964
Rating
200A / 400A. 12kV
Base Channel
75 mm X 40mm X 5mm X 650mm long
M.S. Galvanized

Moving Arcing Horn

9.3mm X 210mm / 270mm long MS
Galvanized
Terminal Pad Front
30 X 7 mm thick Brass Casting

Insulator

Terminal Pad Back

11 kV Post Type porcelain

30 X 7 mm thick Brass Casting

Fixed contact

Braided flexible tape

25 X 5/30 X 5 mm thick copper casting

25 /35 X 5 X 510 mm long Tinned

Copper wire

Moving Contact

Distance Between phase

30 X 8/30 X 10 mm thick Brass casting

760 mm

3.2 WATER METERS

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Water meters are inferential. multijet, dry dial, magnetic type. They have both pointer
& cyclometric reading counters and are duly sealed against tampering. they conform to
IS specification No. IS:779-1994 Class B (Latest amendment) Equivalent to
international standard ISO-4064.
Housing

: The hydrostatically tested brass body is machined to a very high

degree of accuracy.

Coupling

: Both Nuts and Nipples are made in Brass.

Internal Mechanism : Internal components are made of high quality, self lubricating,
wear resistant and anti-corrosive Engineering plastics.

The

turbine revolved & floats around a frictionless stainless steel

pivot on a synthetic sapphire bearing, ensuring long and
accurate working life.
Quality Assurance

: Meters are designed to withstand Hydraulic pressure of

20kg/cm2. Specified temperature and perform accurately over
its entire range. 100% of the meters are tested and calibrated as
per standards.

Loss of Pressure

: Less than 0.025MPA and 0.10MPA at nominal and maximum

flow rates respectively allowing water to reach upper floors.

CALIBERATION

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In unilec,Various tests as per IS 779.1994 are conducted which are described below. By
conducting these tests,we can find whether the particular watermeter is satisfactory in
operation or not. Defective wattermeters are rejected and only the good ones are sold
out.

PRESSURE TIGHTNESS TEST

Watermeter subjected o hydrostatic continuous pressure of
a)1.6 MPa for 15 minutes
b)2.0 MPa for 1 minute
Caution:Defective meter may blast

15mm Single jet class B water meter

Routine tests as per IS 779.1994

Pressure tightness test

Loss of pressure
Metering accuracy
Minimum starting flow

TYPE TESTS

Pressure tightness test

Metering accuracy
(a)
Pressure loss
(b)
Metering accuracy
(c)
Minimum starting flow
(d)
Temperature suitability
Construction
Life test

Temperature suitability test

Water meter is immersed in water at 45 deg. Celcius for 10 hours.

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Accuracy test
Water is allowed to pass through the meter and % error for different flow rates of
Qmax,Qn,Qt and Qmin are checked.

Table : 3.2
Flow rate Qmax

Qn

Qt

Qmin

% error

1500L/H

120L/H

30L/H

(V1-

Values
for

3000L/H

15mm

V2)*100

single jet

V2

class b
LIMITS
OF

+2%

+2%

+2%

+2%

ERROR
V1-volume of water collected in measuring tank
V2-final reading-initial reading
V2-volume of water indicated in water meter

Table : 3.3
Technical specifications of Water Meters
Size of the water meter
Length without Nipples
Length with Nipples

15 mm
165 mm
250 mm

Overall height

110 mm

Overall width

90 mm

Minimum starting flow Class 'B'

30 LPH

Accuracy :

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At lower limits

_+ 5%

At higher limits

_+ 2%

Salient Features

Small, compact design, light in weight

Selected high quality material for durability

Interchangeable spare parts for easy maintenance

High sensitivity, low pressure loss

Vacuum sealed register for clear reading in long run

Working pressure : 1.6Mpa, Maximum test pressure : 2.0 Mpa

Conclusion:
The company manufactures Electricity House Service Energy Meters (Single
Phase and Three phase) of both electro-mechanical and Electronic types.

Motors

Starters (10 HP to 400 HP). Water meters, AB switches and UPS. At present the
company is mainly concentrating on the production of electronic Energy Meters and
motors Starters. The annual turnover of this organisation is about Rs.47 crores and
more than 90% of the Companys turnover is from the sales of energy Meters to KSEB.

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Its employee strength is 130. The temporary posts consist of more than 100 apprentices
and contract based workers.
The major shareholder is Government of Kerala is holding 99% of the total share
value.

The Board of Directors of the Company comprises government nominees,

usually from the Industries Department and General Manager of the Company and also
from among other shareholders. After 1967, improvement in the design of meters was
done products are now marketed under the brand name UNILEC. The Company has
been running in profit consistently since 1988 and maintains a positive net worth and
negligible debt equity ratio. The Company has been maintaining excellent industrial
relations and there is no instance of production loss due to labour unrest for the past 30
years.