Page 1 of 19

Subject: Megger Testing of Busses, MCCs, and Distribution Panels

Revision Number and Date: R 0
1/17/2011

Procedure No.: LUM-FFA-MNT-0016

Use: Reference
Effective Date: TBD
Prepared by:
Jerry Wayne
____________________

Date:

Reviewed by:
Gwen Holladay_________________________________
____1/25/11______

Date:

Approved by: ___________________________________________________

____________________

Date:

Required review frequency: TBD

Page 2 of 19
Subject: Megger Testing of Busses, MCCs, and Distribution Panels
Revision Number and Date: R 0
1/17/2011

Procedure No.: LUM-FFA-MNT-0016

Use: Reference
Table of Content

1. Purpose and Scope............................................................................4

2. Acceptance Criteria............................................................................4
3. Special Tools and Materials.................................................................4
3.1 Tools.............................................................................................................. 4
3.2 Materials........................................................................................................ 4
4. Precautions, Limitations, and Notes....................................................5
4.1 Precautions.................................................................................................... 5
4.2 Limitations..................................................................................................... 5
4.3 Notes............................................................................................................. 5
5. Prerequisites.....................................................................................6
5.1 Planner.......................................................................................................... 6
5.2 Electricians.................................................................................................... 6
6. Definitions and Acronyms...................................................................7
7. Instructions.......................................................................................7
7.1 Busses / Motor Control Centers / Distribution Panels.....................................7
7.2 Loads............................................................................................................. 9
8. References.....................................................................................109
8.1 Development References............................................................................. 10
8.2 Performance References..............................................................................10
9. Attachments....................................................................................10
Attachment A:.........................................................................Megger Test Data Sheet
11

Page 3 of 19
Subject: Megger Testing of Busses, MCCs, and Distribution Panels
Revision Number and Date: R 0
1/17/2011

Procedure No.: LUM-FFA-MNT-0016

Use: Reference

List of Tables
Table 1: Signature Box................................................................................................ 7
Table 2: Test Voltages................................................................................................. 8

Page 4 of 19
Subject: Megger Testing of Busses, MCCs, and Distribution Panels
Revision Number and Date: R 0
1/17/2011

Procedure No.: LUM-FFA-MNT-0016

Use: Reference

Reviews
Writer completes this section and deletes from final version after approval. Review
comments are stored in <type location where comments are stored.>.
< In the Name column, list the names of reviewers you plan to review your
document.>

Internal Review

Stakeholder Review

Page 5 of 19
Subject: Megger Testing of Busses, MCCs, and Distribution Panels
Revision Number and Date: R 0
1/17/2011

Procedure No.: LUM-FFA-MNT-0016

Use: Reference

1. Purpose and Scope

The purpose of this procedure is to provide instructions for performing insulation
resistance (megger) testing of busses, motor control centers (MCCs), and
distribution panels. This procedure provides the minimum guidelines and
acceptance criteria necessary to ensure that you perform meggering is performed
in a safely and consistently manner.

2. Acceptance Criteria
The following acceptance criteria must be met to complete the procedure.
The minimum acceptable value for insulation resistance (R min.) in megohms
between phase-to-phase (busses and feeder cables) and phase-to-ground should
equal or exceed one of the following values:

R min. should be equal to or greater than one megohm per KV of rated

voltage of equipment plus one megohm.
The the minimum value specified by the equipment manufacturer if different
from above, as specified on the applicable Work Order.

3. Special Tools and Materials

Use the following special tools and materials to perform this procedure.

3.1

Tools

The following special tools are required:

Statascope Statoscope (hot stick) (as required)

Ground stick (as required)
Ground straps/jumpers
Class II Rrubber insulated gloves (600V or greater) with leather protectors
Fire retardant coveralls
Voltmeter
Continuity checker
Megger

Page 6 of 19
Subject: Megger Testing of Busses, MCCs, and Distribution Panels
Revision Number and Date: R 0
1/17/2011

Procedure No.: LUM-FFA-MNT-0016

Use: Reference

3.2

Materials

The following special tools materials are required:

None

4. Precautions, Limitations, and

Notes
Before performing the procedure, ensure you understand the following precautions,
limitations, and notes.

4.1

Precautions

The following precautions shall be followed:

4.2
None

To ensure the safety of personnel and accuracy of the test, Gground the test
specimen to discharge the accumulated charges after application ofapplying
megger potential., for the safety of personnel, as well as for test accuracy.
Grounding should be the test specimen for four times the amount of time
you applied the test voltage was applied.
Observe electrical safety precautions to prevent personnel injuries or
component damage when working on energized equipment.
Ensure that designed protection features are not defeated during
performance of the work.
Wear Class II rubber gloves and fire retardant coveralls when meggering at
1001 volts or greater, including when connecting and disconnecting
meggering equipment.
Connect ground lead first, and then HV lead. Disconnect ground lead
last.
Ensure thatUse a good connection to earth ground is used for both meggering
and discharge of equipment under test.
Warn and keep other personnel away from equipment during insulation
testing and a capacitance discharge. Utilize safety barriers and flagging when
appropriate.
Do not perform insulation test in a flammable or explosive atmosphere.

Limitations

Page 7 of 19
Subject: Megger Testing of Busses, MCCs, and Distribution Panels
Revision Number and Date: R 0
1/17/2011

Procedure No.: LUM-FFA-MNT-0016

Use: Reference

4.3

Notes

The following information may be used while performing the procedure:

Do not record readings within the body of this procedure if you are meggering
is being performed to obtain "Information Only" type data, as in case of
trouble shooting.
Do not record readings here if you are meggering is being performed as part
of another approved procedure.
Report discrepancies or unsatisfactory results to the Work Group Supervisor
for follow-up actions. Record problems found in the "Remarks" section of work
package.
Read the analog megger on the scale giving best resolution, and record. Use
specific measurements rather than descriptions such as "greater than" or
"less than." should not be used. Do not take mMegger readings should not be
taken while the pointer or display is pegged (unless on the highest available
range), erratic, or in transit.
Record the actual value displayed value on the digital megger, except that
the word "Infinity", "INF" or the infinity symbol should be used when the
display shows the digit "1" in the first (left hand) position with the other
positions blank.
If an MCC drawout unit is removed, ensure the following:
o
o
o

Visually inspect all contacts after the bucket has been slid into MCC,
tightened down, and seated against the back of the cubicle.
Check all draw out contacts for continuity which that have external
power cables connected for continuity. They should be less than 10
ohms resistance.
Inspect breaker stabs for signs of overheating by looking for
discoloration or signs of arcing.

5. Prerequisites
The following prerequisites must be met before performing this procedure.

5.1

Planner

The planner must enter the following information:

Work Order No.: __________________________________

Component Tag No.: ______________________________
Unit No.: ____________________________________________

Page 8 of 19
Subject: Megger Testing of Busses, MCCs, and Distribution Panels
Revision Number and Date: R 0
1/17/2011

Procedure No.: LUM-FFA-MNT-0016

Use: Reference

5.2

Serial No.: __________________________________________

Electricians

Personnel performing this procedure shall review all instructions, and safety
requirements prior to performing this procedure.

Each personAfter performing work using this procedure, is required to record

their your name in the following signature box (see Table 1: Signature Box). If
you do not have an RACF ID is unavailable, include your the contact
information of the individual.

Page 9 of 19
Subject: Megger Testing of Busses, MCCs, and Distribution Panels
Revision Number and Date: R 0
1/17/2011

Procedure No.: LUM-FFA-MNT-0016

Use: Reference
In the table below, print name, sign name, and initials of the individuals performing
this procedure.

Print Name

Sign Name

Initials

Table 1: Signature Box

Enter following information on Attachment A: Megger Test Data Sheet:.

Equipment Rated Voltage

Test Voltage
M&TE numbers and Calibration Due Dates

6. Definitions and Acronyms

CR (from bottom of page 9)
Live-Dead-Live (L-D-L)
Motor Control Centers (MCCs)

7. Instructions
The procedures below contain instructions for the following tasks:

Busses / MCCs Motor Control Centers / Distribution Panels

Loads

RACF ID

Page 10 of 19
Subject: Megger Testing of Busses, MCCs, and Distribution Panels
Revision Number and Date: R 0
1/17/2011

Procedure No.: LUM-FFA-MNT-0016

Use: Reference

7.1

Busses / Motor Control Centers / Distribution Panels

Note 1
Use this section to perform megger testing of load center busswork
that has been isolated from all of its respective loads. Refer to Section 7.2 for
megger testing of individual loads.
1. Ensure Switch power supply breaker to is in "Open" or "Off" position.
2. Use L-D-L method to de-energize Ensure load side connections of power
supply breaker are de-energized by electrical measurements. Use L-D-L
method.
3. Isolate Ensure all loads associated with buss to be tested. have been
isolated.
4. Disconnect high high-voltage sensitive devices and potential transformers
from buss to be tested.
5. Record and verify leads lifted, and fuses removed on Verification Sheet.
Verify that information is correct, and have a Use second person man as
verifyier the information.
6. Use table below for appropriate Test Voltages.

Bus Voltage

Test Voltage
DC

480

500

2500

2500

4160

5000

6900

5000

13800

10000

the information is correct. ms?ine. "Hot sticks" seems to be more commonly used.
LLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL
CCs he following signature box
LLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL
LLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLTable 2: Test Voltages

Page 11 of 19
Subject: Megger Testing of Busses, MCCs, and Distribution Panels
Revision Number and Date: R 0
1/17/2011

Procedure No.: LUM-FFA-MNT-0016

Use: Reference
7. Megger busswork phase-to-phase then phase-to-ground for one minute,
until readings are stable, or until acceptance criteria is reached.
8. Record readings on Attachment A: Megger Test Data Sheetthe Data Sheet.
9. Ground and discharge each phase tested.
10.Compare readings taken with the acceptance criteria given in Section 2.
11.Remove all test leads and grounding devices. Record on Attachment A:
Megger Test Data SheetMegger Test Data Sheet.
12.Connect high voltage sensitive devices, and potential transformers.
13.Record and verify leads landed and fuses installed on Attachment A:
Megger Test Data SheetVerification Sheet. Have a Use second personman
as verify the informationier.
14.Perform a post work close-out inspection to ensure that all tools and
foreign material have been removed.

7.2

Loads

Note 2
Megger testing is only required for power circuits. Megger testing
instrument and control circuits is not required, or desirable.
1

Use applicable electrical drawings to determine what loads to megger

test.

15.Record tag numbers and test connections for each load to be meggered
on Attachment A: Megger Test Data Sheet.
16.Ensure Switch circuit breaker for each load tois in "Open" or "Off" position.
17.Use L-D-L method to de-energize Ensure load side connections of each
breaker are de-energized by electrical measurements. Use L-D-L method.
18.For motors only, perform phase-to-phase continuity checks between
each phase and record "Sat" or "Unsat" on Attachment A: Megger Test
Data Sheet.
Note 3
Phase-to-phase megger readings are only required for feeder
cables to other MCCs or distribution panels. The breaker on the opposite end
of the feeder cable must be open to obtain satisfactory readings.

Page 12 of 19
Subject: Megger Testing of Busses, MCCs, and Distribution Panels
Revision Number and Date: R 0
1/17/2011

Procedure No.: LUM-FFA-MNT-0016

Use: Reference
19.Megger each load phase-to-ground and, only if required, phase-to-phase
for each load for approximately one minute or until acceptance criteria is
reached.
20.Ground and discharge each load tested.
21.Remove all test leads and grounding devices. Record on Attachment A:
Megger Test Data Sheet.
22.Review all readings taken and determine if they meet acceptance criteria
as given in Section 2.
23.Contact your supervisor and report any equipment deficiencies. Write a CR
for repair or evaluation of the equipment.

Page 13 of 19
Subject: Megger Testing of Busses, MCCs, and Distribution Panels
Revision Number and Date: R 0
1/17/2011

Procedure No.: LUM-FFA-MNT-0016

Use: Reference

8. References
Development references are documents used to develop the procedure.
Performance references are documents referenced within the procedure.

8.1

Development References

[1] IEEE Std 43-2000 Recommended Practice for Testing Insulation Resistance of
Rotating Machinery
[2] IEEE Std 62-1974 Guide for Field Testing Power Apparatus Insulation

8.2
1
2
3
4

Performance References
Generation Safety Handbook
LUM-FFA-REL-0014 Standard of Human Performance Improvement (LUMFFA-REL-0014)
LUM-FFA-SAF-0002 Hazardous Energy Control Program: LOTOVLockout/Tagout /Verify
(MSDS) Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS)

9. Attachments
The following attachments are appended to this procedure.
Attachment A: Megger Test Data Sheet

Page 14 of 19
Subject: Megger Testing of Busses, MCCs, and Distribution Panels
Revision Number and Date: R 0
1/17/2011
Use: Reference

Procedure No.: LUM-FFA-MNT-0016

Page 15 of 19
Subject: Megger Testing of Busses, MCCs, and Distribution Panels
Revision Number and Date: R 0
1/17/2011

Procedure No.: LUM-FFA-MNT-0016

Use: Reference

Attachment A:
Sheet

Megger Test Data

5.2
VDC

Equipment Rated Voltage: __________ VAC

Test Voltage: ___________

7.1

Busses / Motor Control CentersMCCs / Distribution Panels

Equipment Tag Number: ___________________________

A-B ________ Megohms

Megohms

B-C ________ Megohms

C-A ________

A-G ________ Megohms

Megohms

B-G ________ Megohms

C-G ________

==================================================
==============
Equipment Tag Number: ___________________________
A-B ________ Megohms
Megohms

B-C ________ Megohms

C-A ________

A-G ________ Megohms

Megohms

B-G ________ Megohms

C-G ________

==================================================
==============
Equipment Tag Number: ___________________________
A-B ________ Megohms
Megohms

B-C ________ Megohms

C-A ________

A-G ________ Megohms

Megohms

B-G ________ Megohms

C-G ________

Page 16 of 19
Subject: Megger Testing of Busses, MCCs, and Distribution Panels
Revision Number and Date: R 0
1/17/2011

Procedure No.: LUM-FFA-MNT-0016

Use: Reference

Acceptance Criteria: Equal to or greater than one megohms per KV of rated

voltage in step 5.2 plus one megohm, or as specified on Work Order.
7.1.11 _________/_________________ Test leads and ground devices removed.

Page 17 of 19
Subject: Megger Testing of Busses, MCCs, and Distribution Panels
Revision Number and Date: R 0
1/17/2011

Procedure No.: LUM-FFA-MNT-0016

Use: Reference

Attachment Cont'd:
7.2 LOADS
Loads (Tag
No.)

Megger Test Data Sheet

Continuity
(Motors Only)

Test
Connections

Megohms

Acceptance Criteria: Equal to or greater than one megohms per KV of rated

voltage in step 5.2 plus one megohm, or as specified on Work Order.
7.2.8 _________/_________________ Test leads and ground devices removed.

Page 18 of 19
Subject: Megger Testing of Busses, MCCs, and Distribution Panels
Revision Number and Date: R 0
1/17/2011

Procedure No.: LUM-FFA-MNT-0016

Use: Reference

Attachment Cont'd:

Megger Test Data Sheet

Remarks:
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
____
Test Personnel: ____________________________________________________________
______________________

Date:

Test Personnel: ____________________________________________________________

______________________

Date:

Data Reviewed and Approved: ___________________________________________

Date:
______________________
Work Group Supervisor

Page 19 of 19
Subject: Megger Testing of Busses, MCCs, and Distribution Panels
Revision Number and Date: R 0
1/17/2011

Procedure No.: LUM-FFA-MNT-0016

Use: Reference

Revision History
Revision
Number

Approval
Date

Name

Changes

R0

TBD

Jerry Wayne

Initial Draft

R0

TBD

Gwen Holladay

Edits