ELECTRICAL TESTING TECHNICIAN

CERTIFICATION PROGRAM

STUDY GUIDE 2017

 ELECTRICAL TESTING TECHNICIAN
CERTIFICATION PROGRAM STUDY GUIDE

Table of Contents
About the Exams ......................................................................................................................1
Level 2 .............................................................................................................................1
Level 3 .............................................................................................................................2
Level 4 .............................................................................................................................3
Helpful Hints .............................................................................................................................4
Test-Taking Skill Development................................................................................................6
Comments on Exam Items .......................................................................................................7
Profile of Electrical Testing Technician ..................................................................................8
Certification Elements as Defined by the ANSI/NETA ETT ...................................................9
Certification Element Descriptions ....................................................................................... 12
Level 1 ........................................................................................................................... 12
Level 2 ........................................................................................................................... 13
Level 3 ........................................................................................................................... 16
Level 4 ........................................................................................................................... 20
Detailed Content Outlines (DCOs)......................................................................................... 23
Level 2 ........................................................................................................................... 26
Level 3 ...........................................................................................................................33
Level 4 ...........................................................................................................................41
Exam Reference Materials ..................................................................................................... 48
Level 2 ........................................................................................................................... 48
Level 3 ...........................................................................................................................50
Level 4 ...........................................................................................................................53
NETA World Tech Quizzes .....................................................................................................55

This study guide is intended for NETA Accredited Company use.

The ETT Certified Assistant Level 2 performs limited testing and service work while
generally requiring direct supervision.

The individual has sufficient knowledge and experience to be qualified for assuring the
safety of him/herself.

Safety knowledge includes an understanding of lockout/tagout procedures and

requirements, arc-flash and shock hazard analyses, and other facets of hazardous
electrical energy control procedures. The ETT Certified Assistant

Level 2 generally requires direct supervision of a Level 3 ETT Certified Technician or

Level 4 Certified Senior Technician.

To gain a more complete understanding of the requirements of this certification, the

ANSI/NETA ETT and Level 2 Detailed Content Outline should be reviewed in detail.

Education and Training

• 40 hours of safety
• 160 hours of electrical

Related Experience
• Two years*
• Candidates for Level 2 must have met the qualifications for Level 1
• *Completion of two or more years of technical education in an electrical field shall
be equivalent to a maximum of one year of related experience

Examination
• 100-item, multiple-choice, closed-book, onsite proctored examination
• Two hours allowed to complete exam
• Passing score of 410 or higher on a scale of 200 to 500

Exam Composition
• 15% of Exam - Safety
• 25% of Exam - Electrical Testing Fundamentals and Theory
• 55% of Exam - Component Testing
• 5% of Exam - Systems and Commissioning
The ETT Certified Level 3 is capable of supervising ETT Trainee Level I and ETT
Certified Assistant Level 2.

Typical duties include, but are not limited to, performance and management of routine
and moderately complex tasks and projects, record keeping, evaluation of test data, and
responsibility for the safety of others.

Individual is qualified to provide guidance and is capable of performing electrical power

switching.

To gain a more complete understanding of the requirements of this certification, the

ANSI/NETA ETT and Level 3 Detailed Content Outline should be reviewed in detail.

Education and Training

• 24 hours of safety in addition to Level 2 requirements (64 hours total)
• 240 hours of electrical in addition to Level 2 requirements (400 hours total)

Related Experience
• Five years*
• Candidates for Level 3 must have met the qualifications for Levels 1 and 2 in
successive order
• *Completion of two or more years of technical education in an electrical field shall
be equivalent to a maximum of one year of related experience

Examination
• 100-item, multiple-choice, closed-book, onsite proctored examination
• Two hours allowed to complete exam
• Passing score of 410 or higher on a scale of 200 to 500

Exam Composition
• 13% of Exam - Safety
• 23% of Exam - Electrical Testing Fundamentals and Theory
• 47% of Exam - Component Testing
• 17% of Exam - Systems and Commissioning
The ETT Certified Senior Technician, Level 4, supervises large projects and multiple
crews and can work independently.

Individual performs complex investigations, tests, and evaluations, and prepares written
reports as needed.

To gain a more complete understanding of the requirements of this certification, the

ANSI/NETA ETT and Level 4 Detailed Content Outline should be reviewed in detail.

Education and Training

• 40 hours of safety in addition to Level 2 and Level 3 requirements (104 hours
total)
• 200 hours of electrical in addition to Level 2 and Level 3 requirements (600 hours
total)

Related Experience
• Ten years*
• Candidates for Level 4 must have met the qualifications for Levels 1, 2, and 3 in
successive order
• *Completion of two or more years of technical education in an electrical field shall
be equivalent to a maximum of one year of related experience

Examination
• 65-item, multiple-choice, closed-book, onsite proctored examination
• Two hours allowed to complete exam
• Passing score of 410 or higher on a scale of 200 to 500

Exam Composition
• 10% of Exam - Safety
• 15% of Exam - Electrical Testing Fundamentals and Theory
• 55% of Exam - Component Testing
• 20% of Exam - Systems and Commissioning
 What separates NETA Accredited Companies from other testing companies?

Two key characteristics:

1. NETA accredits the company
2. NETA certifies electrical testing technicians

NETA promises the public that using a NETA Accredited Company provides quality
assurance. To maintain quality, it is very important for NETA to ensure the presence of
accreditation and certification of all its member companies.

Helpful hints for preparation, as suggested by NETA Accredited Companies:

• The NETA exam is not a "book smart" test but a field test.

• The test is based on the ANSI/NETA standards; no matter what formal education
a person has, he will not know the requirements of the standards and
specifications unless he has worked in the field using the ANSI/NETA standards.
It is important to study the ANSI/NETA standards.

• Because NETA Technicians are expected to have broad-based knowledge, it is

important to study sections of the specifications that concern procedures not
normally performed by your company.

• In study sessions, it is important to review each section of the specifications;

understand the equipment on which tests are being performed and how the tests
are done.

• The NETA World Tech Quiz is a good basis for theory, and can be helpful in
studying. The questions on the quiz should not be confused with actual test
questions.

• Several of the questions are based on National Electrical Code.

• Field engineers often think they don't need to do calculations; however, they
need to be able to answer questions in the field without calling a PE.

• "Cramming" does little good. Regular technical review sessions are needed.

• One company holds hourly sessions each week, choosing a specific topic to
review. The Representative states that this continuing education is excellent for
all company technicians as a whole, not just the ones preparing for the exam, for
it allows technical reinforcement. He states, "For us to put individuals into a
classroom all day is tough, but the 45-minute blocks work well."
• One company has a 7:00 - 8:30 session every Monday morning for safety, status
reports, and review of a section of the NETA specifications. They review the
NETA requirements in every section along with their own data sheets. If all
technicians are involved in these sessions, you are assured that your company
can provide uniform testing and uniform procedures for your clients.

• Owners and managers assist their technicians in how to take a test. For
example, before beginning the examinee should carefully read the front page of
the exam. This sheet suggests that the examinee read the entire question,
including all possible answers.

• The exam does allow test takers to make comments on individual items as well
as at the end of the exam. These comments will not receive a response, nor do
they have an impact on the overall score, but they are reviewed by the NETA
Exam Committee and used as a means of assuring that the exams remain
technically accurate.

• Non-technical comments, such as, “I was not trained in this,” or “My company
doesn’t do this,” or, “I don’t understand the question” are only valid if more
information is provided – what in the wording is confusing? Can you explain your
answer based on the way you understand the question? Additional insight into
your thought process is necessary to fully assess and evaluate the validity of a
comment.

• As in the field, sometimes negatively stated items are used on the exam –
questions which ask which answer NOT correct. While these items are used
sparingly, this is a real aspect of field work when troubleshooting an issue.

• There are questions on the exam that ask about specific values listed in NETA
Specifications. The Specifications are the basis for a large portion of the test.
While the Specifications explain which tests to perform, the exam expects the
technician to also know how to perform those tests, how to interpret the results,
and what to do with the results. They need to understand the whole process.

• One company hires a trainer from another NETA Accredited Company to conduct
in-house training.

• Technicians should practice good test-taking skills. Additional tips on developing

test-taking skills are covered on the next page.
1. Visit the Certification tab on the NETA website at [Link].

2. Review the number of test items and time allowed and pace yourself. For
example, if a test has 100 items (questions) and you are given two hours to
take the test, you should allow yourself an average of 1.2 minutes per
question. Some questions may take a more or less time, but on average that
can be your pace.

3. Take the tutorial at the beginning of the exam. The tutorial is designed to
allow test takers to become familiar with the computer-based testing
environment and the tools available during the exam. Using what you saw in
the tutorial, make notes of anything you think you might forget. Write down
things that you used in learning the material that might help you remember.

4. If you’re stuck, skip it and move on. Make your best attempt at answering the
question, or come back to it when you are less pressured for time. Use the
“bookmark” function to mark questions that you want to come back to at the
end of your exam.

5. Look at the answer choices BEFORE you actually read the question. That
will help you screen for information related to the answers provided. It may
also help you interpret questions more appropriately.

6. Read the entire question. Pay attention to key words in the stem of the question
so you fully understand what the item is about.

7. Don’t try to remember all the answer options as you read through them.
Turn each answer option into a true/false statement. In your mind, think about
whether the option fits the situation described in the stem.

8. Answer all questions. You have a twenty-five percent chance of getting the
question right.

9. Use all of the time allotted for the test. If you have extra time, cover up your
answers and actually rework the question.

10. Start out right. Get a good night's sleep and be sure to eat breakfast on the day
of the test.

11. If you get off track…Take a brain break. Relax, take a few deep breaths, and
clear your mind.
Comments are allowed on individual test questions. Always reread the question completely. Be
sure you understand the question prior to submitting a comment.

Comments do not have an impact on test scores.

Some criteria for commenting on a test question include when a question:

• Is difficult to read due to a computer display issue

If you experience computer issues, alert the exam proctor at the test center immediately
so they can address the issue. They may relocate you to another test terminal, or restart
your computer. If your issues are not addressed by the proctor, make a comment on the
item as well as at the end of the exam, and email the NETA Office at
neta@[Link] so the issue can be addressed with the exam provider.

• Is missing its figure or has an incorrect figure

Reread the question completely. Be sure you understand the question. If you are sure
the correct answer is not available, complete a comment by stating the basis for your
comment.

• Lacks essential information

Reread the question completely. Be sure you understand the question. If you are still
sure the essential information is not available, complete a comment by identifying the
missing information and briefly explain its value in arriving at a correct answer.

• Has wording which is confusing or misleading

Reread the question completely. Be sure you understand the question. If you are still
sure the correct answer is not available, complete a comment by stating what about the
wording of the item is confusing or misleading and offer wording that would make the
item more clear to you.

• Has answer choices which do not include the answer you are sure is correct
Reread the question completely. Be sure you understand the question. If you are still
sure the correct answer is not available, complete a comment by stating your answer
and the basis for reaching it.

Test takers should keep in mind that each exam item has been carefully verified and proofread
to assure that it is not only technically correct but that it is also psychometrically sound. Errors
are possible, of course, but before commenting on a question the test taker should reread the
question completely and be sure he understands the question and the potential answers.

Examples of comments that are not technically sound:

• My company does not perform this service.

• I am unfamiliar with this piece of equipment.

• The equipment referenced is old, hardly anyone uses it anymore.

 Profile of Electrical Testing Technicians

Certified Assistant Certified Senior

TITLE: Trainee Technician Technician Certified Technician Technician
LEVEL: Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Level 4
EDUCATION High School / GED Electrical 160 hours Electrical 240 hours Electrical 200 hours
AND
TECHNICAL
TRAINING:
SAFETY 8 hours [electrical] 40 hours 24 hours 40 hours
TRAINING:

RELATED None Two Years* Five Years* Ten Years*

EXPERIENCE:

TYPICAL Requires supervision Requires limited Lead technician Supervisor

ABILITY: supervision

TYPICAL  Responsible for  Understands  Supervises Levels  Supervises large

DUTIES: safety of self. hazardous I and II. projects, multiple
electrical energy  Routine and crews.
control moderately  Works
procedures. complex projects. independently.
 Record keeping.  More complex
 Safety of others. investigations,
 Switching. tests, and
 Evaluations. evaluations.

TYPICAL  Assists.  Inspects.  Lockout/tagout,  Recommends

ACTIVITIES:  Basic  Tests. safety grounding. corrective actions.
measurements.  Data collection.  Performs  Performs very
 Test equipment  Test for de- moderately complex tests.
set up and energized locked complex tasks.  Interacts with
removal. out/tagged out  Interacts with engineers and
other skills and managers.
 Basic equipment.
maintenance and
operations.  Reviews reports.
cleaning.  Writes reports.
 Troubleshooting.
EXAMINATION: By employer By certification body By certification body By certification body

NOTE: Candidates must have met the qualifications and training requirements for all previous levels.
* Completion of two or more years of technical education in an electrical field shall be equivalent to a
maximum of one year of experience.
 Certification Exams

Detailed Content Outlines

Level 2 Certified Assistant Technician
Level 3 Certified Technician
Level 4 Certified Senior Technician
These Detailed Content Outlines (DCOs) were developed in accordance with certification industry standards and best practices by subject matter
experts and certified electrical testing technicians with the guidance of examination development professionals. The DCOs should be used in
conjunction with the ANSI/NETA ETT Standard for Certification of Electrical Testing Technicians when preparing for the NETA Certification Exams.

Each outline is divided into different areas to help you determine what subject matter to study as you prepare for your exam.
1. Level
2. Domains
3. Percent of Exam Content
4. Subdomains
5. KSAs (knowledge, skills, abilities)

2. Domain 1. Level
3. Percent of Exam

4. Subdomain

5. KSA
Levels
• NETA offers three levels of certification that are achieved through meeting pre-requisites designated in the ANSI/NETA ETT, by achieving
a passing score on the certification exams, and by maintaining employment with a NETA Accredited Company or NETA Approved Military
Organization
• Level 2 – Certified Assistant Technician
• Level 3 – Certified Technician
• Level 4 – Certified Senior Technician
Domains Core Subjects Within Domain III., Component Testing
• Domains are designated by a Roman numeral, I, II, III, or IV, on the DCO
I. Safety
II. Electrical Testing Fundamentals and Theory
III. Component Testing
IV. Systems and Commissioning
• Each Domain also has a corresponding percentage of content on each exam
• These percentages vary by exam level
Subdomains
• Subdomains are designated by an Arabic numeral under each Domain on the exam
• Subdomains may vary depending on exam level
• Some subdomains are designated as core subjects within the Component Testing subdomain

Core Subjects Within Domain III., Component Testing

• Certain Subdomains within Domain 3, Component Testing, have been identified as core subjects and therefore will be found on every certification
exam for that particular level of certification.
• These core subjects are identified with an asterisk and are highlighted in grey.
• For example, the Level 2 Certification Exam will always contain questions within the Subdomains of Switchgear and Switchboard Assemblies,
Transformers, Cables, Switches, Circuit Breakers, Protective Relays, Instrument Transformers, Grounding Systems, Ground-Fault Protection
Systems, Motor Control Centers and Motor Starters, Direct-Current Systems, Insulating Liquids and Gasses, and Fuses.
• NOTE: to achieve a passing score, it is important to focus on all areas within the detailed content outlines, not just the subdomains that are
designated as core competencies

KSAs
• KSAs are specific sets of knowledge, skills, and abilities that have been identified as pertinent to each specific exam level, domain, and
subdomain
• The KSAs provide detailed descriptions of the types of questions a technician may see on the certification exam
I. Safety 15% of Overall Score
A. Risk Assessment
1 . Identify safe work practices with regard to hazards encountered on the job
2 . Identify requirements to create a safe work environment
3 . Determine the location and implications of shock and arc-flash protection boundaries
B. Establishing an Electrically Safe Work Condition
1 . Apply requirements of NFPA 70E, Article 120: Establishing an Electrically Safe Work Condition
C. Lockout/Tagout Procedures
1 . Apply OSHA lockout/tagout requirements
D. Personal Protective Equipment
1 . Recognize and assess Arc-Flash Hazard/Risk Categories and Shock Protection Boundaries
2 . Apply correct use, storage, and testing of personal protective equipment
E. Safety Equipment Selection
1.
Identify the safety equipment needs of the project (e.g., hotstick, voltage detectors, insulated tools, fire extinguisher, etc.)
F. Confined Space
1 . Recognize confined space and its hazards
2.
Recognize when a confined space becomes a permit-required confined space along with the associated requirements
3 . Apply OSHA requirements
G. Switching and Temporary Protective Grounding
1 . Select and apply correct voltage detection equipment
2 . Select and apply correct temporary protective grounding equipment
3 . Interpret and apply system switching procedures
H. Incident Energy Analysis
1 . Interpret field-marked equipment labels
2 . Identify hazards where no field-marked labels exist
3 . Demonstrate knowledge of incident energy calculation methods
4 . Demonstrate knowledge of the variables involved in incident energy calculation methods
I. Codes and Standards
1 . Apply standards and regulatory organizations (e.g., OSHA, ANSI, ASTM, IEEE, NETA, NFPA, NEMA, etc.)
2.
Recognize key provisions of NFPA 70 (e.g., Articles 90, 110.16, 110.21, 225.56, 230.95(C), 250, and 310) and 70E (i.e.
Chapter 1: Safety-Related Work Practices and Chapter 2: Safety-Related Maintenance Requirements, etc.)
3 . Apply technical requirements of ANSI/NETA Acceptance and Maintenance Testing Standards
4 . Practice compliance with manufacturer's published data
II. Electrical Testing Fundamentals and Theory 25 % of Overall Score
A. Fundamentals of Electricity
1 . Define and apply terms and concepts from physics, electricity, heat, and chemistry
2 . Recognize and define the standard units used to describe electrical circuits, energy, and power
3 . Identify series and parallel circuits
4 . Recognize the sources and effects of electromagnetic fields
5 . Demonstrate knowledge of dielectric properties of various types of insulations
6 . Demonstrate knowledge of phasing and phase rotation
B. Electrical Calculations
1 . Perform mathematical calculations utilizing basic algebra, geometry, and trigonometry
2 . Apply fundamental electrical laws to simple circuits (e.g., Ohm's law, Kirchhoff's law, etc.)
3 . Apply conversions between units (e.g., microhms to milliohms, horsepower to kilowatts, etc.)
C. AC and DC Circuits
1 . Calculate simple single-loop ac circuits with RLC components
2 . Calculate equivalent resistance of and power consumed by resistive circuits
3 . Calculate equivalent capacitance and inductance
4 . Apply methods for measuring and calculating impedance and power
5 . Demonstrate knowledge of complex ac and dc circuits (e.g., voltage drop, current flow, power, etc.)
6 . Demonstrate knowledge of phase angle, power factor, and vectors
D. Insulation Testing
1 . Employ methods and procedures for insulation tests and analyze results
E. Resistance Testing
1 . Employ methods and procedures for resistance tests and analyze results (e.g., winding resistance, contact resistance, bolted
connections, etc.)
F. Thermographic Survey
1.
Employ methods and procedures for thermographic surveys and analyze results (e.g., emissivity, reflection, delta-T, etc.)
G. Current Testing
1 . Employ methods and procedures for current tests and analyze results (e.g., overcurrent pickup, circuit burden, voltage drop,
H. System Tests, Analysis, and Operation
1 . Interpret electrical one-line diagrams
2 . Interpret ac and dc schematic diagrams, ac three-line diagrams, and connection and interconnection drawings
3 . Identify electrical symbols and ANSI device numbers
4 . Interpret time-current curves
5 . Recognize essential components of short-circuit and coordination studies (e.g., cable size and length, available protective
device settings, raceway type, utility fault contribution, etc.)
6 . Demonstrate knowledge of short-circuit and coordination studies
III. Component Testing 55% of Overall Score
* A. Switchgear and Switchboard Assemblies
1 . Identify properties, types, and applications
2 . Apply visual and mechanical inspections
3 . Employ methods and procedures for electrical tests
4 . Evaluate test results
* B. Transformers
1 . Identify properties, types, and applications
2 . Identify properties, types, and applications of auxiliary devices
3 . Apply visual and mechanical inspections
4 . Employ methods and procedures for electrical tests
5 . Evaluate test results
* C. Cables
1 . Identify properties, types, and applications
2 . Identify properties, types, and applications of accessories
3 . Apply visual and mechanical inspections
4 . Employ methods and procedures for electrical tests
5 . Evaluate test results
6 . Demonstrate knowledge of cable fault locating
D. Metal-Enclosed Busways
1 . Identify properties, types, and applications
2 . Apply visual and mechanical inspections
3 . Employ methods and procedures for electrical tests
4 . Evaluate test results
* E. Switches
1 . Identify properties, types, and applications
2 . Apply visual and mechanical inspections
3 . Employ methods and procedures for electrical tests
4 . Evaluate test results
* F. Circuit Breakers
1 . Identify properties, types, and applications
2 . Apply visual and mechanical inspections
3 . Employ methods and procedures for electrical tests
4 . Evaluate test results
III. Component Testing (Continued)
G. Circuit Switchers
1 . Identify properties, types, and applications
2 . Apply visual and mechanical inspections
3 . Employ methods and procedures for electrical tests
4 . Evaluate test results
H. Network Protectors
1 . Identify properties, types, and applications
* I. Protective Relays
1 . Identify types and applications
2 . Apply visual and mechanical inspections
3 . Employ methods and procedures for electrical tests
4 . Evaluate test results
* J. Instrument Transformers
1 . Identify properties, types, and applications
2 . Apply visual and mechanical inspections
3 . Employ methods and procedures for electrical tests
4 . Evaluate test results
K. Metering Devices
1 . Identify properties, types, and applications
2 . Apply visual and mechanical inspections
3 . Employ methods and procedures for electrical tests
4 . Evaluate test results
L. Regulating Apparatus
1 . Identify properties, types, and applications
2 . Apply visual and mechanical inspections
* M. Grounding Systems
1 . Identify properties, types, and applications
2 . Apply visual and mechanical inspections
3 . Employ methods and procedures for electrical tests
4 . Evaluate test results
5 . Employ methods of enhancing effectiveness of grounding systems
* N. Ground-Fault Protection Systems
1 . Identify properties, types, and applications
2 . Apply visual and mechanical inspections
3 . Employ methods and procedures for electrical tests
4 . Evaluate test results
III. Component Testing (Continued)
O. Rotating Machinery
1 . Identify properties, types, and applications
2 . Apply visual and mechanical inspections
3 . Employ methods and procedures for electrical tests
4 . Evaluate test results
* P. Motor Control Centers and Motor Starters
1 . Identify properties, types, and applications
2 . Apply visual and mechanical inspections
3 . Employ methods and procedures for electrical tests
4 . Evaluate test results
Q. Adjustable-Speed Drive Systems
1 . Identify properties, types, and applications
* R. Direct-Current Systems
1 . Identify properties, types, and applications
2 . Apply visual and mechanical inspections
3 . Employ methods and procedures for electrical tests
4 . Evaluate test results
S. Surge Arresters
1 . Identify properties, types, and applications
2 . Apply visual and mechanical inspections
3 . Employ methods and procedures for electrical tests
4 . Evaluate test results
T. Capacitors and Reactors
1 . Identify properties, types, and applications
2 . Apply visual and mechanical inspections
3 . Employ methods and procedures for electrical tests
4 . Evaluate test results
U. Outdoor Bus Structures
1 . Identify properties, types, and applications
2 . Apply visual and mechanical inspections
3 . Employ methods and procedures for electrical tests
4 . Evaluate test results
V. Emergency Systems
1 . Identify properties, types, and applications
2 . Apply visual and mechanical inspections
3 . Employ methods and procedures for electrical tests
4 . Evaluate test results
III. Component Testing (Continued)
W. Automatic Circuit Reclosers and Line Sectionalizers
1 . Identify properties, types, and applications
2 . Apply visual and mechanical inspections
X. Fiber-Optic Cables
. Recognize and correctly handle fiber-optic cables
* Y. Insulating Liquids and Gases
1 . Identify properties, types, and applications
2 . Apply sampling procedures
3 . Employ methods and procedures in compliance with ASTM
4 . Evaluate test results
* Z. Fuses
1 . Identify properties, types, and applications
2 . Apply visual and mechanical inspections
3 . Employ methods and procedures for electrical tests
4 . Evaluate test results
IV. Systems and Commissioning 5% of Overall Score
A. Troubleshooting
1 . Investigate power or protective system faults or malfunctions to determine cause and corrective action required
B. Functional Testing
1 . Employ methods and procedures for system-function tests upon completion of the individual component tests defined, as
system conditions allow
2 . Apply concepts of functionality for electrical systems
I. Safety 13% of Overall Score
A. Risk Assessment
1 . Identify safe work practices with regard to hazards encountered on the job
2 . Identify requirements to create a safe work environment
3 . Determine the location and implications of shock and arc-flash protection boundaries
B. Establishing an Electrically Safe Work Condition
1 . Apply requirements of NFPA 70E, Article 120: Establishing an Electrically Safe Work Condition
C. Lockout/Tagout Procedures
1 . Apply OSHA lockout/tagout requirements
D. Personal Protective Equipment
1 . Recognize and assess Arc-Flash Hazard/Risk Categories and Shock Protection Boundaries
2 . Apply correct use, storage, and testing of personal protective equipment
E. Safety Equipment Selection
1 . Identify the safety equipment needs of the project (e.g., hotstick, voltage detectors, insulated tools, fire extinguisher, etc.)
F. Confined Space
1 . Recognize confined space and its hazards
2 . Recognize when a confined space becomes a permit-required confined space along with the associated requirements
3 . Apply OSHA requirements
G. Switching and Temporary Protective Grounding
1 . Select and apply correct voltage detection equipment
2 . Select and apply correct temporary protective grounding equipment
3 . Interpret and apply system switching procedures
H. Incident Energy Analysis
1 . Interpret field-marked equipment labels
2 . Identify hazards where no field-marked labels exist
3 . Demonstrate knowledge of incident energy calculation methods
4 . Demonstrate knowledge of the variables involved in incident energy calculation methods
I. Codes and Standards
1 . Apply standards and regulatory organizations (e.g., OSHA, ANSI, ASTM, IEEE, NETA, NFPA, NEMA, etc.)
2 . Recognize key provisions of NFPA 70 (e.g., Articles 90, 110.16, 110.21, 225.56, 230.95(C), 250, and 310) and 70E (i.e. Chapter 1: Safety-Related Work
Practices and Chapter 2: Safety-Related Maintenance Requirements, etc.)
3 . Apply technical requirements of ANSI/NETA Acceptance and Maintenance Testing Standards
4 . Practice compliance with manufacturers' published data
II. Electrical Testing Fundamentals and Theory 23% of Overall Score
A. Fundamentals of Electricity
1 . Define and apply terms and concepts from physics, electricity, heat, and chemistry
2 . Recognize and define the standard units used to describe electrical circuits, energy, and power
3 . Identify series and parallel circuits
4 . Recognize the sources and effects of electromagnetic fields
5 . Demonstrate knowledge of dielectric properties of various types of insulations
6 . Demonstrate knowledge of phasing and phase rotation
B. Electrical Calculations
1 . Perform mathematical calculations utilizing basic algebra, geometry, and trigonometry
2 . Apply fundamental electrical laws to simple circuits (e.g., Ohm's law, Kirchhoff's law, etc.)
3 . Apply conversions between units (e.g., microhms to milliohms, horsepower to kilowatts, etc.)
C. AC and DC Circuits
1 . Calculate simple single-loop ac circuits with RLC components
2 . Calculate equivalent resistance of and power consumed by resistive circuits
3 . Calculate equivalent capacitance and inductance
4 . Apply methods for measuring and calculating impedance and power
5 . Calculate variables of complex ac and dc circuits (e.g., voltage drop, current flow, power, etc.)
6 . Calculate phase angle, power factor, and vectors
D. Insulation Testing
1 . Employ methods and procedures for insulation tests and analyze results
E. Resistance Testing
1 . Employ methods and procedures for resistance tests and analyze results (e.g., winding resistance, contact resistance, bolted connections, etc.)

F. Thermographic Survey
1 . Employ methods and procedures for thermographic surveys and analyze results (e.g., emissivity, reflection, delta-T, etc.)
G. Current Testing
1 . Employ methods and procedures for current tests and analyze results (e.g., overcurrent pickup, circuit burden, voltage drop, etc.)
II. Electrical Testing Fundamentals and Theory (Continued)
H. System Tests, Analysis, and Operation
1 . Interpret electrical one-line diagrams
2 . Interpret ac and dc schematic diagrams, ac three-line diagrams, and connection and interconnection drawings
3 . Identify electrical symbols and ANSI device numbers
4 . Interpret time-current curves
5 . Recognize essential components of short-circuit and coordination studies (e.g., cable size and length, available protective device settings, raceway type, utility
fault contribution, etc.)
6 . Apply data extracted from short-circuit and coordination studies
7 . Recognize cause and effects of power system harmonics
III. Component Testing 47% of Overall Score
* A. Switchgear and Switchboard Assemblies
1 . Identify properties, types, and applications
2 . Apply visual and mechanical inspections
3 . Employ methods and procedures for electrical tests
4 . Evaluate test results
* B. Transformers
1 . Identify properties, types, and applications
2 . Identify properties, types, and applications of auxiliary devices
3 . Apply visual and mechanical inspections
4 . Employ methods and procedures for electrical tests
5 . Evaluate test results
* C. Cables
1 . Identify properties, types, and applications
2 . Identify properties, types, and applications of accessories
3 . Apply visual and mechanical inspections
4 . Employ methods and procedures for electrical tests
5 . Evaluate test results
6 . Demonstrate knowledge of cable fault locating
D. Metal-Enclosed Busways
1 . Identify properties, types, and applications
2 . Apply visual and mechanical inspections
3 . Employ methods and procedures for electrical tests
4 . Evaluate test results
E. Switches
1 . Identify properties, types, and applications
2 . Apply visual and mechanical inspections
3 . Employ methods and procedures for electrical tests
4 . Evaluate test results
* F. Circuit Breakers
1 . Identify properties, types, and applications
2 . Apply visual and mechanical inspections
3 . Employ methods and procedures for electrical tests
4 . Evaluate test results
G. Circuit Switchers
1 . Identify properties, types, and applications
2 . Apply visual and mechanical inspections
3 . Employ methods and procedures for electrical tests
4 . Evaluate test results
III. Component Testing (Continued)
H. Network Protectors
1 . Identify properties, types, and applications of protection and control
2 . Apply visual and mechanical inspections
3 . Employ methods and procedures for electrical tests
4 . Evaluate test results
* I. Protective Relays
1 . Identify types and applications
2 . Apply visual and mechanical inspections
3 . Employ methods and procedures for electrical tests
4 . Evaluate test results
* J. Instrument Transformers
1 . Identify properties, types, and applications
2 . Apply visual and mechanical inspections
3 . Employ methods and procedures for electrical tests
4 . Evaluate test results
K. Metering Devices
1 . Identify properties, types, and applications
2 . Apply visual and mechanical inspections
3 . Employ methods and procedures for electrical tests
4 . Evaluate test results
L. Regulating Apparatus
1 . Identify properties, types, and applications
2 . Apply visual and mechanical inspections
3 . Employ methods and procedures for electrical tests
4 . Evaluate test results
* M. Grounding Systems
1 . Identify properties, types, and applications
2 . Apply visual and mechanical inspections
3 . Employ methods and procedures for electrical tests
4 . Evaluate test results
5 . Employ methods of enhancing effectiveness of grounding systems
* N. Ground-Fault Protection Systems
1 . Identify properties, types, and applications
2 . Apply visual and mechanical inspections
3 . Employ methods and procedures for electrical tests
4 . Evaluate test results
III. Component Testing (Continued)
* O. Rotating Machinery
1 . Identify properties, types, and applications
2 . Apply visual and mechanical inspections
3 . Employ methods and procedures for electrical tests
4 . Evaluate test results
P. Motor Control Centers and Motor Starters
1 . Identify properties, types, and applications
2 . Apply visual and mechanical inspections
3 . Employ methods and procedures for electrical tests
4 . Evaluate test results
Q. Adjustable-Speed Drive Systems
1 . Identify properties, types, and applications
2 . Apply visual and mechanical inspections
3 . Employ methods and procedures for electrical tests
4 . Evaluate test results
* R. Direct-Current Systems
1 . Identify properties, types, and applications
2 . Apply visual and mechanical inspections
3 . Employ methods and procedures for electrical tests
4 . Evaluate test results
S. Surge Arresters
1 . Identify properties, types, and applications
2 . Apply visual and mechanical inspections
3 . Employ methods and procedures for electrical tests
4 . Evaluate test results
T. Capacitors and Reactors
1 . Identify properties, types, and applications
2 . Apply visual and mechanical inspections
3 . Employ methods and procedures for electrical tests
4 . Evaluate test results
U. Outdoor Bus Structures
1 . Identify properties, types, and applications
2 . Apply visual and mechanical inspections
3 . Employ methods and procedures for electrical tests
4 . Evaluate test results
* V. Emergency Systems
1 . Identify properties, types, and applications
2 . Apply visual and mechanical inspections
3 . Employ methods and procedures for electrical tests
4 . Evaluate test results
III. Component Testing (Continued)
W. Automatic Circuit Reclosers and Line Sectionalizers
1 . Identify properties, types, and applications
2 . Apply visual and mechanical inspections
3 . Employ methods and procedures for electrical tests
4 . Evaluate test results
X. Fiber-Optic Cables
1 . Identify properties, types, and applications
2 . Apply visual and mechanical inspections
* Y. Insulating Liquids and Gases
1 . Identify properties, types, and applications
2 . Apply sampling procedures
3 . Employ methods and procedures in compliance with ASTM
4 . Evaluate test results
Z. Fuses
1 . Identify properties, types, and applications
2 . Apply visual and mechanical inspections
3 . Employ methods and procedures for electrical tests
4 . Evaluate test results
IV. Systems and Commissioning 17% of Overall Score
A. Troubleshooting
1 . Investigate power or protective system faults or malfunctions to determine cause and corrective action required
B. SCADA
1 . Recognize basic requirements, equipment, and configuration of SCADA/DCS systems
C. Monitoring/DCS Systems
1 . Apply procedures for microprocessor-based power monitoring and control systems
D. Functional Testing
1 . Employ methods and procedures for system-function tests upon completion of the individual component tests defined, as system conditions allow

2 . Apply concepts of functionality for electrical systems

I. Safety 10% of Overall Score
A. Risk Assessment
1 . Identify safe work practices with regard to hazards encountered on the job
2 . Identify requirements to create a safe work environment
3 . Determine the location and implications of shock and arc-flash protection boundaries
B. Establishing an Electrically Safe Work Condition
1 . Apply requirements of NFPA 70E, Article 120: Establishing an Electrically Safe Work Condition
C. Lockout/Tagout Procedures
1 . Apply OSHA lockout/tagout requirements
D. Personal Protective Equipment
1 . Recognize and assess Arc-Flash Hazard/Risk Categories and Shock Protection Boundaries
2 . Apply correct use, storage, and testing of personal protective equipment
E. Safety Equipment Selection
1 . Identify the safety equipment needs of the project (e.g., hotstick, voltage detectors, insulated tools, fire extinguisher, etc.)
F. Confined Space
1 . Recognize confined space and its hazards
2 . Recognize when a confined space becomes a permit-required confined space along with the associated requirements
3 . Apply OSHA requirements
G. Switching and Temporary Protective Grounding
1 . Select and apply correct voltage detection equipment
2 . Select and apply correct temporary protective grounding equipment
3 . Interpret and apply system switching procedures
H. Incident Energy Analysis
1 . Interpret field-marked equipment labels
2 . Identify hazards where no field-marked labels exist
3 . Demonstrate knowledge of incident energy calculation methods
4 . Demonstrate knowledge of the variables involved in incident energy calculation methods
I. Codes and Standards
1 . Apply standards and regulatory organizations (e.g., OSHA, ANSI, ASTM, IEEE, NETA, NFPA, NEMA, etc.)
2 . Recognize key provisions of NFPA 70 (e.g., Articles 90, 110.16, 110.21, 225.56, 230.95(C), 250, and 310) and 70E (i.e. Chapter 1: Safety-
Related Work Practices and Chapter 2: Safety-Related Maintenance Requirements, etc.)
3 . Apply technical requirements of ANSI/NETA Acceptance and Maintenance Testing Standards
4 . Practice compliance with manufacturer's published data
II. Electrical Testing Fundamentals and Theory 15 % of Overall Score
A. Fundamentals of Electricity
1 . Define and apply terms and concepts from physics, electricity, heat, and chemistry
2 . Recognize and define the standard units used to describe electrical circuits, energy, and power
3 . Identify series and parallel circuits
4 . Recognize the sources and effects of electromagnetic fields
5 . Demonstrate knowledge of dielectric properties of various types of insulations
6 . Demonstrate knowledge of phasing and phase rotation
B. Electrical Calculations
1 . Perform mathematical calculations utilizing basic algebra, geometry, and trigonometry
2 . Apply fundamental electrical laws to simple circuits (e.g., Ohm's law, Kirchhoff's law, etc.)
3 . Apply conversions between units (e.g., microhms to milliohms, horsepower to kilowatts, etc.)
C. AC and DC Circuits
1 . Calculate simple single-loop ac circuits with RLC components
2 . Calculate equivalent resistance of and power consumed by resistive circuits
3 . Calculate equivalent capacitance and inductance
4 . Apply methods for measuring and calculating impedance and power
5 . Calculate variables of complex ac and dc circuits (e.g., voltage drop, current flow, power, etc.)
6 . Calculate phase angle, power factor, and vectors
D. Insulation Testing
1 . Employ methods and procedures for insulation tests and analyze results
E. Resistance Testing
1 . Employ methods and procedures for resistance tests and analyze results (e.g., winding resistance, contact resistance, bolted connections, etc.)

F. Thermographic Survey
1 . Employ methods and procedures for thermographic surveys and analyze results (e.g., emissivity, reflection, delta-T, etc.)
G. Current Testing
1 . Employ methods and procedures for current tests and analyze results (e.g., overcurrent pickup, circuit burden, voltage drop, etc.)
H. System Tests, Analysis, and Operation
1 . Interpret electrical one-line diagrams
2 . Interpret ac and dc schematic diagrams, ac three-line diagrams, and connection and interconnection drawings
3 . Identify electrical symbols and ANSI device numbers
4 . Interpret time-current curves
5 . Recognize essential components of short-circuit and coordination studies (e.g., cable size and length, available protective device settings,
raceway type, utility fault contribution, etc.)
6 . Apply data extracted from short-circuit and coordination studies
7 . Recognize cause and effects of power system harmonics
III. Component Testing 55% of Overall Score
A. Switchgear and Switchboard Assemblies
1 . Identify properties, types, and applications
2 . Apply visual and mechanical inspections
3 . Employ methods and procedures for electrical tests
4 . Evaluate test results
* B. Transformers
1 . Identify properties, types, and applications
2 . Identify properties, types, and applications of auxiliary devices
3 . Apply visual and mechanical inspections
4 . Employ methods and procedures for electrical tests
5 . Evaluate test results
C. Cables
1 . Identify properties, types, and applications
2 . Identify properties, types, and applications of accessories
3 . Apply visual and mechanical inspections
4 . Employ methods and procedures for electrical tests
5 . Evaluate test results
6 . Demonstrate knowledge of cable fault locating
D. Metal-Enclosed Busways
1 . Identify properties, types, and applications
2 . Apply visual and mechanical inspections
3 . Employ methods and procedures for electrical tests
4 . Evaluate test results
E. Switches
1 . Identify properties, types, and applications
2 . Apply visual and mechanical inspections
3 . Employ methods and procedures for electrical tests
4 . Evaluate test results
* F. Circuit Breakers
1 . Identify properties, types, and applications
2 . Apply visual and mechanical inspections
3 . Employ methods and procedures for electrical tests
4 . Evaluate test results
III. Component Testing (Continued)
G. Circuit Switchers
1 . Identify properties, types, and applications
2 . Apply visual and mechanical inspections
3 . Employ methods and procedures for electrical tests
4 . Evaluate test results
H. Network Protectors
1 . Identify properties, types, and applications of protection and control
2 . Apply visual and mechanical inspections
3 . Employ methods and procedures for electrical tests
4 . Evaluate test results
* I. Protective Relays
1 . Identify types and applications
2 . Apply visual and mechanical inspections
3 . Employ methods and procedures for electrical tests
4 . Evaluate test results
* J. Instrument Transformers
1 . Identify properties, types, and applications
2 . Apply visual and mechanical inspections
3 . Employ methods and procedures for electrical tests
4 . Evaluate test results
K. Metering Devices
1 . Identify properties, types, and applications
2 . Apply visual and mechanical inspections
3 . Employ methods and procedures for electrical tests
4 . Evaluate test results
L. Regulating Apparatus
1 . Identify properties, types, and applications
2 . Apply visual and mechanical inspections
3 . Employ methods and procedures for electrical tests
4 . Evaluate test results
M. Grounding Systems
1 . Identify properties, types, and applications
2 . Apply visual and mechanical inspections
3 . Employ methods and procedures for electrical tests
4 . Evaluate test results
5 . Employ methods of enhancing effectiveness of grounding systems
III. Component Testing (Continued)
N. Ground-Fault Protection Systems
1 . Identify properties, types, and applications
2 . Apply visual and mechanical inspections
3 . Employ methods and procedures for electrical tests
4 . Evaluate test results
* O. Rotating Machinery
1 . Identify properties, types, and applications
2 . Apply visual and mechanical inspections
3 . Employ methods and procedures for electrical tests
4 . Evaluate test results
P. Motor Control Centers and Motor Starters
1 . Identify properties, types, and applications
2 . Apply visual and mechanical inspections
3 . Employ methods and procedures for electrical tests
4 . Evaluate test results
Q. Adjustable-Speed Drive Systems
1 . Identify properties, types, and applications
2 . Apply visual and mechanical inspections
3 . Employ methods and procedures for electrical tests
4 . Evaluate test results
R. Direct-Current Systems
1 . Identify properties, types, and applications
2 . Apply visual and mechanical inspections
3 . Employ methods and procedures for electrical tests
4 . Evaluate test results
S. Surge Arresters
1 . Identify properties, types, and applications
2 . Apply visual and mechanical inspections
3 . Employ methods and procedures for electrical tests
4 . Evaluate test results
T. Capacitors and Reactors
1 . Identify properties, types, and applications
2 . Apply visual and mechanical inspections
3 . Employ methods and procedures for electrical tests
4 . Evaluate test results
III. Component Testing (Continued)
U. Outdoor Bus Structures
1 . Identify properties, types, and applications
2 . Apply visual and mechanical inspections
3 . Employ methods and procedures for electrical tests
4 . Evaluate test results
* V. Emergency Systems
1 . Identify properties, types, and applications
2 . Apply visual and mechanical inspections
3 . Employ methods and procedures for electrical tests
4 . Evaluate test results
W. Automatic Circuit Reclosers and Line Sectionalizers
1 . Identify properties, types, and applications
2 . Apply visual and mechanical inspections
3 . Employ methods and procedures for electrical tests
4 . Evaluate test results
X. Fiber-Optic Cables
1 . Identify properties, types, and applications
2 . Apply visual and mechanical inspections
3 . Employ methods and procedures for optical tests
4 . Evaluate test results
* Y. Insulating Liquids and Gases
1 . Identify properties, types, and applications
2 . Apply sampling procedures
3 . Employ methods and procedures in compliance with ASTM
4 . Evaluate test results
Z. Fuses
1 . Identify properties, types, and applications
2 . Apply visual and mechanical inspections
3 . Employ methods and procedures for electrical tests
4 . Evaluate test results
IV. Systems and Commissioning 20% of Overall Score
A. Troubleshooting
1 . Investigate power or protective system faults or malfunctions to determine cause and corrective action required
B. SCADA
1 . Recognize basic requirements, equipment, and configuration of SCADA/DCS systems
C. Monitoring/DCS Systems
1 . Apply procedures for microprocessor-based power monitoring and control systems
D. Functional Testing
1 . Employ methods and procedures for system-function tests upon completion of the individual component tests defined, as system conditions
allow
2 . Apply concepts of functionality for electrical systems
The NETA Exam Committee recommends that Technicians review and study following documents
when preparing for the NETA Level 2 Exam.

Safety - Intermediate Safety

Occupational Safety and Health Standards
• 1910.25 - Walking-Working Surfaces, Portable Wood Ladders
• 1910.134 - Personal Protective Equipment, Respiratory Protection
• 1910.146 - General Environmental Controls, Permit-Required Confined Spaces
• 1910.147 - General Environmental Controls, The Control of Hazardous Energy (lockout/tagout).
• 1910.155 - Fire Protection
• 1910.333 - Electrical, Selection and Use of Work Practices
• 1910.334 - Electrical, Use of Equipment

Safety - Confined Space

Occupational Safety and Health Standards
• 1910.146 - General Environmental Controls, Permit-Required Confined Spaces

Safety - Electrical Personal Protective Equipment

ASTM International
• D120 - Standard Specification for Rubber Insulating Gloves

Occupational Safety and Health Standards (OSHA)

• 1910.134 - Personal Protective Equipment, Respiratory Protection
• 1910.137 - Personal Protective Equipment, Electrical Protective Devices.
• 1910.138 - Personal Protective Equipment, Hand Protection
• 1910.269 - Special Industries, Electric Power Generation, Transmission, and Distribution.
• 1910.333 - Electrical, Selection and Use of Work Practices

Safety - Switching and Grounding

ASTM International
• F855 - Standard Specifications for Temporary Protective Grounds to Be Used on De-energized
Electric Power Lines and Equipment

Occupational Safety and Health Standards (OSHA)

• 1910.333 - Electrical, Selection and Use of Work Practices

Communications - Read and Record Data

IEEE
• The Authoritative Dictionary of IEEE Standards Terms

Tools and Equipment - Basic Test Equipment

IEEE
• 43 - IEEE Recommended Practice for Testing Insulation Resistance of Rotating Machinery

System Analysis and Operation - Basic Drawings and Diagrams

IEEE
• C37.2 - Electrical Power System Device Function Numbers and Contact Designations

American Codes and Standards - Standards-Making Organizations

National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)
• NFPA 70: National Electrical Code, Article 90 - Introduction
• NFPA 70: National Electrical Code, Article 384 - Strut-Type Channel Raceway
American Codes and Standards – ANSI/NETA Standards
InterNational Electrical Testing Association (NETA)
• ANSI/NETA MTS Standard for Maintenance Testing Specifications for Electrical Power
Equipment and Systems
• ANSI/NETA ATS Standard for Acceptance Testing Specifications for Electrical Power Equipment
and Systems
• ANSI/NETA ECS Standard for Electrical Commissioning Specifications for Electrical Power
Equipment and Systems

Wires, Cables, Buses - Properties and Types

Insulated Cable Engineers Association (ICEA)
• Standards

Insulating Liquid and Gases - Properties, Types and Sampling Procedures

IEEE
• C57.111 - IEEE Guide for Acceptance of Silicone Insulating Fluid and Its Maintenance in
Transformers
 The NETA Exam Committee recommends that Technicians review and study the following
documents, in addition to those listed in previous sections, when studying for the Level 3 NETA
Exam.

Communications - Prep of Technical Reports

IEEE
• The Authoritative Dictionary of IEEE Standards Terms

InterNational Electrical Testing Association (NETA)

• Acceptance Testing Specifications, Appendix A - Definitions
• Maintenance Testing Specifications, Appendix A - Definitions

Tools and Equipment (Selection)

• See any good article on measurement of resistance with equipment such as Kelvin and
Wheatstone bridges.
• Review the instruction manuals for insulation resistance test sets (such as Megger's).

Electrical & Physical Theory - Intermediate Electrical Terms and Definitions

IEEE
• C57.105 - IEEE Guide for Application of Transformer Connections in Three-Phase Distribution
Systems

McGraw-Hill Companies (publisher)

• The American Electrician's Handbook by Croft & Summers - Division 9
• Standard Handbook for Electrical Engineers by D. Fink and Beaty - Section 16

American Codes and Standards - Knowledge of Codes and Standards

ASTM International
• D3487 - Standard Specification for Mineral Insulating Oil Used in Electrical Apparatus

National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)

• NFPA 70: National Electrical Code, Article 230 - Services
• NFPA 70: National Electrical Code, Article 250 - Grounding and Bonding
• NFPA 70: National Electrical Code, Article 700 - Emergency Systems
• NFPA 70: National Electrical Code, Table 110.26A - Working Spaces

General Test Equipment - Insulation Tests

• A Stitch in Time - published by Biddle Instruments (Now Megger)

IEEE
• 43 - IEEE Recommended Practice for Testing Insulation Resistance of Rotating Machinery

InterNational Electrical Testing Association (NETA)

• ANSI/NETA MTS Standard for Maintenance Testing Specifications for Electrical Power
Equipment and Systems
• ANSI/NETA ATS Standard for Acceptance Testing Specifications for Electrical Power Equipment
and Systems
• ANSI/NETA ECS Standard for Electrical Commissioning Specifications for Electrical Power
Equipment and Systems

General Test Equipment - Thermographic Survey

See web address for Arizona State University:
[Link]
General Test Equipment - Ratio and Relative Polarity
IEEE
• 0081P - IEEE Guide for Measuring Earth Resistivity, Ground Impedance, and Earth Surface
Potentials of a Ground System Part I: Normal Measurements
• C57.13.1 - IEEE Guide for Field Testing of Relaying Current Transformers

General Test Equipment - Power-Factor/Dissipation-Factor Testing

• Refer to the instruction manual of a quality power factor test set such as Doble or Megger.
• Refer to the instruction manual of a dissipation-factor test set such as Megger.

IEEE
• The Authoritative Dictionary of IEEE Standards Terms

InterNational Electrical Testing Association (NETA)

• Acceptance Testing Specifications
• Acceptance Testing Specifications

Transformers: Power Transformers - General

Doble Engineering
• Bushing Field-Test Guide

IEEE
• C57.19.03 - IEEE Standard Requirements, Terminology, and Test Code for Bushings for DC
Applications

Wires, Cables, Buses - Inspection and Maintenance

IEEE
• 141, Clause [Link]. - IEEE Recommended Practice for Electrical Power Distribution for
Industrial Plants (IEEE Red Book)

Circuit Breakers and Circuit Switches - Inspection and Maintenance

IEEE
• C37.06, Table 8 - AC High-Voltage Circuit Breakers Rated on a Symmetrical Current Basis-
Preferred Ratings and Related Required Capabilities
• C37.13 - Standard for Definite Purpose Switching Devices for Use in Metal Enclosed Low Voltage
Power Circuit Breaker Switchgear
• C37.95 - Guides and Standards for Circuit Breakers, Switchgear, Relays, Substations, and Fuses
• C37.100 - Standard Definitions for Power Switchgear

Circuit Breakers and Circuit Switches: Testing (A)

• See any of the manufacturer’s application guides for ground fault protection.

Electrical Protective Devices - Low-Voltage Breakers

• Read the instruction manuals of various manufacturers and from various vintage trip units.
• Review the instruction manuals for modern microprocessor-based trip units like the Cutler
Hammer Digitrip.

Electrical Protective Devices - Current Relays (A)

• See the appropriate instruction manuals.

Electrical Protective Devices - Differential Relays

• See any transformer differential relay instruction manual.
Grounding Systems - Types, Application, and Testing (A)
IEEE
• 0081P - IEEE Guide for Measuring Earth Resistivity, Ground Impedance, and Earth Surface
Potentials of a Ground System Part I: Normal Measurements
• 142 - IEEE Recommended Practice for Grounding of Industrial and Commercial Power Systems
(IEEE Green Book)
• 43 - IEEE Recommended Practice for Testing Insulation Resistance of Rotating Machinery

Rotating Machinery - Types, Inspection, and Testing

See battery manufacturer recommendations

InterNational Electrical Testing Association (NETA)

• ANSI/NETA MTS Standard for Maintenance Testing Specifications for Electrical Power
Equipment and Systems
• ANSI/NETA ATS Standard for Acceptance Testing Specifications for Electrical Power Equipment
and Systems
• ANSI/NETA ECS Standard for Electrical Commissioning Specifications for Electrical Power
Equipment and Systems

IEEE
• C37.96 - IEEE Guide for AC Motor Protection

Direct Current Systems - Servicing and Testing

IEEE
• 450 - IEEE Recommended Practice for Maintenance, Testing, and Replacement of Vented Lead-
Acid Batteries for Stationary Applications,

InterNational Electrical Testing Association (NETA)

• Acceptance Testing Specifications

Capacitor, Reactor, Surge Protection - Use, Application, and Testing

IEEE
• C57.16 - IEEE Standard Requirements, Terminology, and Test Code for Dry-Type Air-Core
Series-Connected Reactors
• C62.33 - IEEE Standard Test Specifications for Varistor Surge-Protective Devices

Insulating Liquid and Gases - Tests and Evaluation

IEEE
• C57.104 - IEEE Guide for the Interpretation of Gases Generated in Oil-Immersed Transformers
• C57.106 - IEEE Guide for Acceptance and Maintenance of Insulating Oil in Equipment
• C57.111 - IEEE Guide for Acceptance of Silicone Insulating Fluid and Its Maintenance in
Transformers
• C57.121 - IEEE Guide for Acceptance and Maintenance of Less-Flammable Hydrocarbon Fluid in
Transformers

ASTM International
• D877 - Standard Test Method for Dielectric Breakdown Voltage of Insulating Liquids Using Disk
Electrodes
• D923 - Standard Practices for Sampling Electrical Insulating Liquids
• D974 - Standard Test Method for Acid and Base Number by Color-Indicator Titration
• D3487 - Standard Specification for Mineral Insulating Oil Used in Electrical Apparatus

Environmental Protection Agency

• Code of Federal Regulations (40 CFR), 761 - Protection of Environment
 The NETA Exam Committee recommends that Technicians review and study the following
documents, in addition to those listed in previous sections, when studying for the Level 4 NETA
Exam.

American Codes and Standards - Knowledge of Codes and Standards

National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)
• NFPA 70: National Electrical Code, Article 215 - Feeders

General Test Equipment

InterNational Electrical Testing Association (NETA)
• ANSI/NETA MTS Standard for Maintenance Testing Specifications for Electrical Power
Equipment and Systems
• ANSI/NETA ATS Standard for Acceptance Testing Specifications for Electrical Power Equipment
and Systems
• ANSI/NETA ECS Standard for Electrical Commissioning Specifications for Electrical Power
Equipment and Systems

Grounds and Grounding Systems

IEEE
• 142 - IEEE Recommended Practice for Grounding of Industrial and Commercial Power Systems
(IEEE Green Book)
 NETA World Journal
Tech Quizzes

Disclaimer
The following pages contain reproductions of the Tech Quizzes that have appeared in past issues of NETA
World Journal, NETA’s quarterly technical publication.

While these quizzes were written by subject matter experts and reviewed by NETA’s technical editors,
these quizzes have not undergone the same process as NETA’s certification exams. Tech Quizzes are not
intended to replicate the experience of taking the NETA Certification Exams and should not be considered
equivalent to the NETA Certification Exams.

Since these quizzes are not updated after they are published in NETA World Journal, it is important for
technicians studying this material to refer to the most recent edition of industry codes and standards
referenced to assure that the correct answers listed are still accurate. It is possible that references have
been updated, and that values and procedures have changed since these quizzes were published.

The intent of providing these quizzes in one location is to allow individuals preparing for the NETA
Certification Exams access relevant concepts that may appear on the certification exams.
Fall 2007
 Fall 2007
Electrical Safety

1. Define the Flash Protection Boundary.

a. The closest a qualified worker can be to exposed, energized conductors or
parts without wearing rubber insulating PPE.
b. The closest an unqualified worker can get to exposed, energized
conductors or parts.
c. The distance from exposed, energized parts that would result in the onset
of a second degree burn.
d. The distance from exposed, energized conductors or parts that would
result in a third degree burn.

2. You are about to begin work on an energized section of switchgear. The Flash
Protection Boundary is 27 inches, the Limited Approach Boundary is 42 inches,
the Restricted Approach Boundary is 12 inches and the Prohibited Approach
Boundary is 1 inch. Where do you set the boundary for the Safe Work Zone?
a. Limited Approach Boundary
b. Restricted Approach Boundary
c. Prohibited Approach Boundary
d. Flash Protection Boundary

3. What is the Limited Approach Boundary for a 4,160-volt system?

a. 26 inches
b. 38 inches
c. 42 inches
d. 60 inches

4. When electrical systems or equipment are placed in an electrically-safe work

condition, they are locked out, tagged out and what else?
a. Checked for the absence of voltage and grounded, if necessary.
b. A supervisor must check and make certain it is de-energized.
c. Nothing. OSHA says LOTO is all that’s needed.
d. Rubber insulating shielding is placed so that no contact can be made with
an energized part.

5. What is the Restricted Approach Boundary for a 480-volt system?

a. 1 inch
b. 12 inches
c. 26 inches
d. 42 inches
 Fall 2007 Answers

1. C. The on-set of a second degree burn would possibly result in blisters similar to
a severe sun burn. This type of burn occurs when1.2 cal/cm2 of heat energy
impacts the surface of the body Note that the procedures required in NFPA 70E
are not intended to prevent injury, but to make an injury survivable.

2. A. The Safe Work Zone is established as either the Flash Protection Boundary or
the Limited Approach Boundary, whichever is farthest out. Thus, in this example
it is the Limited Approach Boundary.

3. D. The Limited Approach Boundary for a 4160 volt fixed circuit part is 60 inches
(5 feet, 0 inches.)

4. A. Lockout/tagout does not go far enough to protect a person working on

electrical systems. Often, circuits and components remain energized or become
re-energized, even though they are believed to be locked out. They must be
proven de-energized and preferably grounded.

5. B. Typically, this means a qualified electrical worker would have to put on rubber
insulating gloves rated for the voltage to cross this boundary.
 Winter 2007
Power Transformers

1. When performing an insulation power factor test on a 5 MVA, 34.5 kV:480 V

transformer, the measured insulation resistance was 0.75 percent. Is this an
acceptable reading on a new power transformer of this size and why?
a. Yes. New power transformers can have up to a 1.0 percent insulation
power factor.
b. Yes. It is a little high, but is not so high as to be of concern.
c. No. The maximum insulation power factor should be less than 0.5
percent.
d. No. The maximum insulation power factor should be less than 0.75
percent.

2. You are testing a 50 MVA power transformer. The ambient temperature is 800F,
and the oil temperature gauge reads 850C. The nameplate lists the maximum
temperature rise as 650C. Is the transformer temperature too high?
a. Yes
b. No

3. What is the maximum deviation allowed on a TTR test when compared to

nameplate ratio?
a. 2%
b. 1.5%
c. 1%
d. 0.5%

4. When operating a no-load tap-changer:

a. Open the secondary (load side) when changing taps.
b. Disconnect any loads. The secondary can stay energized.
c. De-energize the transformer completely before changing taps.
d. The taps can be changed while under load.

5. You have a delta-connected transformer bank, and one transformer is taken out
of service. What percentage of load can the remaining two transformers carry
when connected open-delta?
a. 75%
b. 66%
c. 58%
d. 37%
 Winter 2007 Answers

1. C. The maximum allowable insulation power factor is 0.5 percent on new power
transformers.

2. B. No. To determine if the transformer is operating at too high a temperature, the

temperature rise must be calculated. Temperature rise is the ambient
temperature subtracted from the top oil temperature (indicted on the temperature
gauge). In our example the top oil temperature is 85°C and the ambient is 80°F
or about 27°C:

85°C - 27°C = 58°C

The maximum allowable temperature rise is 65°C, which is greater than the
calculated temperature rise.

3. D. The maximum allowable deviation from nameplate ratio is 0.5 percent for a
turns ratio test.

4. C. No-load or off-load tap-changers, as they are sometimes called, can only be

operated when the transformer is completely de-energized.

5. C. Transformers operated open-delta can only be loaded to 57.7 percent of the

full three transformer bank load.
 Spring 2008
Motors

1. You perform a polarization index on a generator winding. The polarization index

test result is 1.1. How would you evaluate its condition?
a. Poor
b. Fair
c. Good
d. Excellent

2. A motor has a nameplate rating of 460 volts and is connected to a 230 volt
source. What torque will the motor produce in percent of rated torque?
a. 25%
b. 100%
c. 75%
d. 50%

3. An induction motor has 40 kVA input power, a power factor of 82 percent, and an
efficiency of 92 percent. What is its horsepower?
a. 30.2 HP
b. 40.5 HP
c. 53.6 HP
d. 44.4 HP

4. The ANSI/NETA MTS-07 lists several tests for ac motors. Which of the following
tests is not one of the tests listed?
a. Insulation resistance
b. Insulation power factor or dissipation factor
c. ac high potential
d. Surge comparison

5. One horsepower is equivalent to which of the following?

a. 35% power factor
b. 746 watts
c. one kilowatt
d. 1.732 voltamperes
 Spring 2008 Answers

1. The answer is A. A P.I. of 1.1 is a poor value for dry insulation. Good insulation
should have a P.I. of 2.0 or higher.

2. A is correct again. 25% torque is all you’ll get. Torque is related to the square
of the voltage difference: 230/460 = 0.5; 0.52 = 0.25 = 25%.

3. B is correct, 40.5 HP. 40 kVA x 0.82 power factor gives the real input power.
Multiply the input power by the efficiency, 0.92, to get output power. Now divide
the output kilowatts by 0.746 kW/HP to get the output horsepower, 40.5.

4. C is the correct answer.

5. B. In case you didn’t read the answer to question 3, one horsepower is equal to
746 watts.
 Summer 2008
Batteries

1. When should an equalize charge be given to a lead-acid wet cell battery bank?
a. After about 10 deep discharge/charge cycles
b. When sulfating of the plates occurs
c. When the electrolyte stratifies with higher concentration of acid at the
bottom
d. When there is a significant difference in the individual cell voltages
e. All of the above

2. Each cell in a lead-acid battery produces how much voltage (approximately)?

a. 1 volt
b. 2 volts
c. 10 volts
d. 20 volts

3. Four twelve-volt, 150 ampere-hour batteries are connected in series to form a

bank. What is the bank rating?
a. 12 volts, 600 ampere-hours
b. 48 volts, 150 ampere-hours
c. 8 volts, 600 ampere-hours
d. 12 volts, 150 ampere-hours

4. What is the cell voltage deviation from the bank average that indicates an
equalizing charge is needed?
a. 1 volt
b. 0.5 volt
c. 0.05 volt
d. 0.005 volt

5. List 4 common maintenance items performed on a periodic basis on battery

banks:
a. __________________________________
b. __________________________________
c. __________________________________
d. __________________________________
 Summer 2008 Answers

1. E. All of the above. Batteries should not be given an equalize charge until it is
needed, usually after a heavy discharge. Frequent equalizing shortens battery
life, increases water usage, and increases the overall cost. Batteries in float
service with infrequent discharge cycles may sulfate, requiring an equalize
charge to remove the sulfur from the lead plates.

2. B. Each battery cell produces only about two volts. The typical 12-volt auto
battery has six cells.

3. B. 48 volts, 150 ampere-hours. Connecting in series increases the voltage by

the sum of the cells, but the current remains the same. A parallel connection
would increase the current, not the voltage.

4. C. 0.05 volt from the average of all the cells according to NETA ATS and MTS.

5. Possible answers:
a. Specific gravity of pilot cells
b. Volts per cell of pilot cells
c. Battery charger output voltage
d. Electrolyte level of pilot cells
e. Temperature measurement
f. Verify all alarms are functional
g. Intercell connectors are tight
h. Internal impedance of pilot cells
i. Thermographic survey
 Fall 2008
Grounding

1. According to ANSI/NETA MTS-07, how often should ground systems be

electrically tested?
a. Once a year
b. Once every two years
c. Once every three years
d. Only every four years

2. The maximum ground resistance of an industrial facility should be

a. 1 ohm
b. 2 ohms
c. 4 ohms
d. 5 ohms

3. The maximum ground resistance of a generating station shoul be

a. 1 ohm
b. 2 ohms
c. 4 ohms
d. 5 ohms

4. What IEEE standard is used as a reference for fall-of-potential testing?

a. Standard 71
b. Standard 81
c. Standard 99
d. Standard 101

5. For a ground system with fairly uniform soil and test electrodes driven at
sufficient spacing relative to the size of that ground system, what distance from
the tested electrode should the potential electrode be placed to measure the
theoretically correct ground resistance when performing a fall-of-potential test?
a. 20 feet.
b. 100 feet.
c. 62% of the distance between the current electrode and the tested
electrode
d. 57.7% of the distance between the current electrode and the tested
electrode
 Fall 2008 Answers

1. B. With average reliability and average condition, the table in Appendix B

indicates a test interval of 24 months. This time recommendation changes
according to criticality and condition.

2. D. Section 7.13 gives a maximum of 5 ohms for an industrial facility. In

grounding, though, the lower the better.

3. A. Section 7.13 shows 1 ohm maximum for generating and transmission

facilities.

4. B. The ANSI/IEEE Standard 81, “IEEE Guide for Measuring Earth Resistivity,
Ground Impedance, and Earth Surface Potentials of a Ground System” is the
reference.

5. C. If the soil is fairly homogeneous in content, the distance the voltage electrode,
P2, is driven is usually 62%. Often that may not provide the true resistance,
though. The best procedure is to drive P2 in several locations, in line with the
tested electrode, C1, and the test current electrode, C2. Obtain test data for P2
positions beginning about 50% of the distance from C1 to C2 until about 70% of
that distance. Plot the resulting earth resistances relative to the P2 distance from
C1. Where the plotted values level off is the true earth resistance. If the plotted
values do not level off, that indicates more distance is needed between C1 and
C2 and the tests need to be run again.
 Winter 2008
Power Electronics

1. A poultry plant had to replace bearings in one of their motors about three times a
year. The application is a variable-speed drive (VFD) for an oven fan. The belt
tension was always found to be set properly. Mechanically, everything was in
proper order. What was happening and how could it be solved?

2. A maintenance technician added several more 120 Vac outputs on a PLC for a
machine expansion. Rather than adding a larger control power transformer to
handle the new I/O, he pulled a single wire carrying 120 Vac from an adjacent
panel to feed the new outputs. Over time the neutral wire in the existing PLC
control panel burned up. Why?

3. A dc drive had failed and was too costly to repair, so it was replaced with a new
digital drive. Several days went by and the customer noticed that the motor
oscillated in speed and drew slightly more current than it used to. Why would a
new drive cause this?

4. A newspaper in East Texas decided to upgrade its printing press with two new
digital dc drives and change all control relay logic with a PLC. The PLC used the
same 120 Vac power that fed their computer server room. Every Tuesday and
Thursday evening between 9:00 PM and 10:30 PM the PLC would lose its
memory and program. The servers, however, would be fine. What was the
problem?
 Winter 2008 Answers

1. Bearings in motors that are powered by VFDs sometimes fail due to common
mode shaft voltage causing current to pass through the bearings. Because pulse
width modulated (PWM) voltages do not sum instantaneously to zero with
respect to ground, there is potential for CM voltage to build up on the shaft
causing current flow through motor bearings. The air gap and grease in the
bearing act like a dielectric. When the shaft voltage exceeds the dielectric
strength of the bearing lubricant, an arc occurs. This arcing causes pitting in the
bearing race and the rolling elements thus leading to premature failure. One
possible solution is to reduce the “carrier frequency” of the PWM. Also, make
sure that the motor is VFD compatible. (See NEMA MG-1, Section IV, Part 31.)

2. Although both new and old I/Os were supplied by 120 Vac potential, the sources
were not out of phase from one another, causing the existing neutral to carry the
current for both the existing and new outputs. If the two hot wires measure zero
volts between them, then they are in phase with one another and the neutral has
to carry the current for both hot conductors. If the two hot conductors measure
240 Vac between them, then the currents cancel each other and only the
difference flows through the neutral.

3. A3. If you are thinking drive to motor tuning, that would be an obvious place to
start. However, if this fails to correct the problem, check the polarity of the motor
armature conductors between the drive and motor. On all stabilized shunt-wound
dc motors the series field lead (labeled S2) must be connected to the negative
output of the drive and the shunt field wire (labeled F2 or F4 depending on field
wiring) must be connected to the negative side of the field supply. If the rotation
of the motor needs to be changed, then swap either A1 or A2 leads with the S1
lead. When stabilized shunt-wound motor connects are not polarized properly the
motor can exhibit higher than normal armature current and unstable speed
operation. IMPORTANT NOTE: if the motor is going to be used on a regenerative
drive, it would a good idea to drop the S1 and S2 connections out of the circuit
and tape them off.

4. A4. On those evenings the company that cleaned the offices for the newspaper
would plug a vacuum cleaner in an outlet in the server room in order to vacuum
the carpet in the hall. The servers were not affected because they were on a
UPS which filtered out the EMI from the vacuum cleaner.
 Spring 2009
NFPA 70E

1. Article 110 states that CPR must be certified by the employer at a specific
interval. What is it?
a. Every three years, just like the American Heart Association recommends
b. Every two years
c. Every year
d. The interval is left up to the employer’s discretion.

2. In Article 100 there is a new requirement for training for a qualified electrical
worker. What is it?
a. All training must be certified by the authority having jurisdiction.
b. Qualified workers must now be trained to select an appropriate voltage
detector and demonstrate how to use it.
c. Training must include proper application of ground clusters, including
setting up an equipotential zone.
d. Qualified workers must be able to determine incident energy using IEEE
1584 or other industry-recognized software.

3. Hazard/Risk Category 1 contains new PPE requirements. What are they?

a. Arc-rated face shield and hearing protection
b. Minimum arc rating of clothing raised to 6 cal/cm2
c. Arc-rated gloves required for operating circuit breakers with the doors
open
d. Hearing protection and arc-rated gloves required for all tasks

4. 130.3(C) contains a new requirement. What is it?

a. Equipment shall be labeled with the arc-flash protection boundary from an
arc-flash study and shock protection approach boundaries..
b. Equipment labeling shall include minimum safe approach distances for arc
flash only.
c. Equipment shall be field marked with either the incident energy or the
required level of PPE.
d. Equipment labels shall be uniform in size and color. There are too many
confusing designs.

5. In question 4 above, to what equipment does the new requirement pertain?

a. All electrical equipment, including motors and light switches
b. Only equipment with an ampacity above 25,000 amperes
c. Electrical equipment covered by 110.16 in the NEC
d. No such requirement
 Spring 2009 Answers

1. C. Every year (annually). CPR is a life safety skill that needs to be reinforced
annually in the opinion of the 70E committee. In 110.6(D)(1)(d), which is the
paragraph above the requirement, it states that “Tasks that are performed less
often than once per year shall require retraining…”. This would certainly apply to
something most people have never done in real life circumstances.

2. B. Training must include how to select the proper voltage detector, demonstrate
how to use it, and understand its indications and its limitations of use.

3. A. It didn’t make sense to say that incident energy above 1.2 cal/cm2 would
cause the onset of a second degree burn (limit of safe approach for the arc-flash
hazard) and then say it’s okay to exceed that on your face, up to 4 cal/cm2. This
requirement makes PPE for thermal protection uniform for the entire body. The
hearing protection was added because the 70E committee was presented
information indicating that even HRC 0 events could cause sound above 140 db,
which will damage hearing.

4. C. Most electrical workers do not have the information at their disposal or the
tools necessary to determine what is needed to protect themselves from the arc-
flash hazard. This requirement provides minimum information.

5. C. Some people choose to interpret this as pertaining to all electrical equipment;

a huge undertaking. It only applies to the equipment addressed by NEC 110.16.
 Summer 2009
SF6 Circuit Breakers

1. What is the primary advantage of sulfur hexafluoride gas as an insulator?

a. costs a lot less than mineral oil
b. if released into the atmosphere it causes no harm
c. it is not affected by moisture
d. its insulating strength increases with pressure

2. List four risk categories of SF6 gas contamination:

a. ____________________________________.
b. ____________________________________.
c. ____________________________________.
d. ____________________________________.

3. What is added to SF6 gas for cold climates?

a. hydrogen (H2 ) and/or freon-14 (CF4)
b. acetylene (C2H2) and nitrogen (N2).
c. nitrogen (N2) and/or freon-14 (CF4)
d. None of the above

4. When arcing occurs in SF6 , what is one hazardous byproduct?

a. metal fluorides.
b. sulfur dioxide.
c. hexadecimals.
d. None. SF6 is inert and doesn’t react to arcing.

5. What is meant by a “dead-tank breaker”?

a. The breaker operating mechanism is deenergized.
b. The contacts are arranged in such a manner that they extend through the
porcelain housing.
c. They are safe to rack in or out while under load; no PPE is needed.
d. The external tank is grounded making it “dead”.
 Summer 2009 Answers

1. D. SF6 has a number of advantages, so the primary one is open to opinion. The
dielectric strength of SF6 increases with pressure so smaller breakers can be
used at higher voltages. The breakers have a smaller footprint, so they use less
real estate which can be very expensive. They are very reliable and require less
maintenance than air blast or oil breakers and can operate at higher voltages
effectively.

2. Answers:
• New gas – in cylinders from the gas manufacturer
• Non-arced – has been used or handled, but contains no arcing byproducts
• Normally arced – corrosive byproducts less than 200 ppm
• Heavily arced – contains arcing byproducts greater than one percent by
volume

Editor’s Note: Jim has referenced CIGRÉ Task Force B3.02.01 SF6 Recycling
Guide for this question.

3. C. Nitrogen and freon-14. They are added to keep the SF6 gasified at lower
temperatures. SF6 has a tendency to liquefy and pool at colder temperatures.
This reduces the internal pressure, which reduces the dielectric strength.

4. A. Metal fluorides. As SF6 decomposes during arcing metal fluorides are

created, which are corrosive. When servicing SF6 breakers that have been
faulted, full body protection and oxygen-fed respirators may be needed to
prevent the fluorides from contacting the skin or being inhaled. Any moisture on
or in the body will create hydrofluoric acid.

5. D. Dead tank breakers have grounded tanks. Live tank breakers use the
insulating column to house the mechanism and contact assemblies, so they are
energized at system voltage (live).
 Fall 2009
Hazard/Risk Analysis

1. An electrical hazard/risk analysis only looks at the hazards involved with

performing energized work.
True
False

2. Based upon the figure, what is the safest method of racking the 480 V main
breaker?

a. Suiting up in an 80 cal/cm2 suit

b. Use a remote racking device
c. Use an extended racking handle
d. Open the 13.8 kV switch first

3. You arrive at a job site to perform maintenance on a power system. Your partner
completes the JSA and the two of you begin work. What’s wrong with this
scenario?
 Fall 2009
Hazard/Risk Analysis

4. You are about to perform absence-of-voltage testing on a 480 V panelboard.

There has been no arc-flash study done and there are no labels. You can
determine from the transformer nameplate of the transformer feeding the
panelboard that the short-circuit current will be less than 50,000 amperes, and
the breaker feeding this panel is an MCCB with an instantaneous trip unit and a
clearing time of less than two cycles. What is the flash protection boundary?
a. 42”
b. 48”
c. 60”
d. There’s no way to tell

5. When is it not necessary to complete an energized electrical work permit?

a. Voltage testing, troubleshooting, or like activities
b. Tightening terminal strips and lugs
c. Replacing a 15 A molded-case circuit breaker
d. All the above
 Fall 2009 Answers

1. False. Many people actually perform only a hazard analysis. They check the
label or use the tables in the NFPA 70E and don’t give the job another thought.
Whether the tables are used or the equipment has arc-flash labels, the risk must
also be assessed.
(See NFPA 70E, Annex F.)

2. D. Even though the switch has a voltage of 13.8 kV, there is only 3.03 cal/cm2
incident energy at that point. The other alternatives will expose the worker to
much higher incident energy than operating the switch in answer D.

3. Often on job sites one technician fills out the safety paperwork and the other has
already started the task(s) before the safety analysis is completed. All workers
need to be involved in the job safety analysis. Having one person complete the
paperwork without the others reviewing it will result in some of the workers not
being informed of the hazards and risks.

4. B. NFPA 70E Article 130.3(A)(1) allows the use of a 48” FPB if there is 50 kA
short-circuit current or less and a clearing time of no more than .033 second (2
cycles). Check the OCPD feeding the equipment about to be worked on to
determine that it has an instantaneous element that interrupts in 2 cycles or less.
Calculate the available short circuit current from the transformer feeding the
circuit to verify that it is 50 kA or less. If both of those requirements are met, the
four foot FPB can be used.

5. A. NFPA 70E Article 130.1(B)(3) “Exemptions to Work Permit” includes voltage

measurement in these exemptions, although the worker must still wear the
correct PPE and establish a safe work zone. The other tasks listed in question 5
are considered energized work, and require a permit
 Winter 2009
Transformer Accessories and Condition Assessment

1. The liquid level indicator is calibrated to__________ at normal operating

conditions.
a. Center line of gauge
b. High or low gauge
c. Temperature at 25°C
d. Type of insulating liquid

2. To change voltage levels for seasonal changes, a __________ is used.

a. deenergized load tap-changer
b. tapped transformer
c. load tap transformer
d. autotransformer

3. An internal fault can be discovered earliest using which gas test method?
a. Total combustible gases detector
b. Gas collector relay
c. Nitrogen blanket analysis
d. Dissolved-gas analysis

4. Sample valves should be flushed with _____ of waste liquid before collecting a
transformer liquid sample?
a. One quart
b. Two quarts
c. Three quarts
d. Four quarts

5. The power factor of new mineral oil should be __________ % or less.

a. 0.01
b. 0.05
c. 0.1
d. 0.5
 Winter 2009 Answers

1. C. When full, the gauge will indicate at 25°C when the top oil temperature is
25°C. Insulating oil will expand and contract with temperature changes, so
nameplates will often state how much change in liquid level there will be due to
temperature. The best rule-of-thumb is to not add oil unless the level is below
the LOW mark.

2. A. We used to call this a no-load tap-changer, but that really was not accurate
and misled some people to try to change taps by just opening the secondary of
the transformer. A transformer always draws current from the power system
(excitation current) even with the secondary open. This current establishes and
maintains the flux within the core. Always isolate both the primary and
secondary of a transformer before operating this type of tap-changer.

3. D. Dissolved gas analysis or gas-in-oil analysis provides the earliest detection of

internal problems in a liquid -insulated transformer. Most transformer problems
originate under the oil and will usually create some type of combustible gas.
DGA takes a sample of oil and injects it into a gas chromatograph. Combustible
gases are detected in parts per million and are compared to standards to
evaluate the condition of the transformer; however, DGA does not provide
indication of remaining life in a transformer.

4. B. At one time it was one quart, but that may not be enough for larger
transformers or transformers with a lot of gunk (that’s a technical term) inside the
sample valve, so now it is two quarts. If the transformer is already low on oil, do
not take a sample until it has been topped off and allowed to sit for at least a few
days so the oil can mix.

5. B. Mineral oil has a relatively low power factor when it is new. It will increase
with age, but a higher power factor does not necessarily mean the oil is bad.
Bushing compound, sealants, and gasketing may increase power factor without
harming the oil’s insulating properties. The cause of an increased power factor
should be determined.
 Spring 2010
Electrical Hazard/Risk Analysis

1. Which OSHA regulation requires an hazard/risk analysis of the workplace?

a. 1910.132
b. 1926.222
c. 1910.335
d. 1910.147

2. List four of the five items OSHA requires employers to do as part of a hazard/risk
assessment:
a. ________________________________________________
b. ________________________________________________
c. ________________________________________________
d. ________________________________________________

3. In your own words, state the relationship between incident energy and time:

4. List two sources of information for a hazard/risk analysis:

a. __________________________
b. __________________________

5. List four factors to consider when evaluating risk in an electrical power system:
a. ______________________________________
b. ______________________________________
c. ______________________________________
d. ______________________________________
 Spring 2010 Answers

1. A. 1910.132 covers assessing hazards. In 1910.132(d)(1) OSHA states, “The

employer shall assess the workplace to determine if hazards are present, or are
likely to be present, which necessitate the use of personal protective equipment
(PPE). If such hazards are present, or likely to be present, the employer shall:
1910.132(d)(1)(i)
Select, and have each affected employee use, the types of PPE that will
protect the affected employee from the hazards identified in the hazard
assessment;
1910.132(d)(1)(ii)
Communicate selection decisions to each affected employee; and,
1910.132(d)(1)(iii)
Select PPE that properly fits each affected employee. Note: Non-
mandatory Appendix B contains an example of procedures that would
comply with the requirement for a hazard assessment.”

2. Any four of the requirements listed below are correct.

a. Perform a hazard assessment if there are hazards requiring the use of
PPE.
b. Select PPE that is appropriate for the hazard.
c. Ensure employees are using the PPE they are given.
d. Tell each employee what PPE is required for the hazards they will face.
e. Make certain that the PPE fits the employee properly.

3. A. Incident energy is directly proportional to time. If the time of exposure is

doubled, the incident energy is also doubled. This is why maintenance and
testing of overcurrent protective devices (OCPD) is a safety issue.

4. The NFPA 70E provides some guidance for hazard/risk analysis, but ANSI/AHIA
Z10 has additional information, including assessing the residual risk (risk that
cannot be eliminated or reduced by other measures).
a. NFPA 70E
b. ANSI/AIHA Z10

5. Any four of the below listed factors should be considered. Depending on the
specific installation and environment, other factors may also need to be
considered.
a. Equipment condition
b. Equipment age
c. Equipment loading
d. History of failure
e. Environment
f. Maintenance history
g. Potential for backfeed or induced voltages
h. Power system configuration/design
i. Skill level of personnel doing the work
 Summer 2010
Medium-Voltage Circuit Breakers

1. When is the danger of an arc flash the greatest for drawout circuit breakers?
a. When opening the circuit breaker
b. When closing the circuit breaker
c. When racking the circuit breaker in
d. When racking the circuit breaker out
e. Both C and D

2. What electrical test can help determine the condition of the contact pivot’s
lubrication state?
a. Insulation power factor
b. Contact resistance
c. Insulation resistance
d. Vacuum bottle integrity test
e. DC overpotential

3. When evaluating insulation-resistance test results on a medium-voltage, air-

magnetic circuit breaker, what quantity is evaluated?
a. Percent power factor
b. Capacitance
c. Insulation watts-loss
d. Megohms

4. What dangerous energy could be released during a vacuum bottle integrity test?
a. Gamma rays
b. Nuclear radiation
c. X-rays
d. None
e. Both A and C

5. What are the insulation power factor tests typically performed on a medium-
voltage, air-magnetic circuit breaker?
a. Six guarded-specimen tests and three ungrounded-specimen tests
b. Three ungrounded-specimen tests and six grounded-specimen tests
c. Three guarded-specimen tests and six grounded-specimen tests
d. Six ungrounded-specimen tests and three guarded-specimen tests
 Summer 2010 Answers

1. E. Racking the circuit breaker, whether racking in or racking out, presents the
greatest hazard. Whenever a bus connection is made or broken (and there are
no arc chutes or extinguishers), there is an increased hazard from arc flash.

2. B. The contact resistance test is almost like having x-ray vision. As the
lubricants in the contact pivot dry out (from the heat created by current passing
through the contact structures), the resistance of the pivot increases. If this is
trended the resistance can be seen to increase each year the circuit breaker is in
service.

3. C. According to Doble® Engineering, insulation watts-loss is used when the

device being tested is mostly resistive.

4. C. X-rays could be released if a vacuum bottle fails during the vacuum bottle
integrity test. The amount of radiation is small and can be blocked by putting the
circuit breaker between yourself and the bottle being tested.

5. A. The guarded-specimen tests measure the insulation quality from each pole
unit to ground and the ungrounded-Specimen tests measures the insulation
quality across the arc chute.
 Fall 2010
Medium-Voltage Motor Starters

A. According to ANSI/NETA MTS, there are four adjustments to check on medium-

voltage motor starters. What are they?
a. ____________________
b. ____________________
c. ____________________
d. ____________________

B. When performing an overpotential test on the insulation, what is an acceptable

value?
a. One megohm/kV + one megohm
b. 100 megohms
c. 5,000 megohms
d. No sign of failure

C. What is the maximum deviation allowable between fuse resistances?

a. 10%
b. 15%
c. 20%
d. 50%

D. What is the maximum deviation between resistance measurements on bolted

connections?
a. 25%
b. 30%
c. 50%
d. 75%

E. Medium-voltage motor starters use blowout coils. What do these do?

a. Blow a puff of air between the contacts to force the arc up into the arc
chute
b. Extinguish the arc using a strong burst of air
c. Create a magnetic field that helps draw the arc into the arc chute
d. Create a resistance in the arc path that causes the arc to diminish, thereby
making it easier to extinguish.
 Fall 2010 Answers

1. Answers:
a. Contact gap
b. Contact pressure
c. Contact wipe
d. Contact alignment

2. D. No sign of failure. The one megohm/kV + one megohm is old school for
insulation resistance test values. This value is much too low for good insulation..
Use Table 100.1 instead.

3. B. 15% for all power fuses.

4. C. 50% for all bolted connections.

5. C. As the arc current passes through the blowout coil a magnetic field is created
that pulls the arc into the chute. The same thing happens on medium-voltage air
circuit breakers.
 Winter 2010
Diagnostics

1. Waveform harmonic power quality problems are usually caused by equipment

with:
a. Nonlinear loads
b. Large motor starting
c. Mother Nature
d. all of the above

2. On a three-phase, full-wave rectifier with six poles, the harmonic currents

generated by the rectifier are:
a. Harmonics of prime number (5,7,11,13,17,19….)
b. Triplen harmonics(3,6,9,…)
c. A and B both
d. None of the above.

3. ______________ occurs when the harmonic currents injected by nonlinear loads

interact with system impedance to produce high harmonic voltages:
a. Sag
b. Swell
c. Interruption
d. Resonance

4. If there are issues with a VFD on a three-phase, three-wire system, it is

necessary to monitor line to ground voltages.

True
False

5. When installing filtered capacitor banks to improve power quality, which of the
following items are necessary for proper tuning:
a. Harmonic load and harmonic spectrum at the site
b. Short-circuit current or kVA of the transformer feeding the site
c. Other capacitor banks installed at the site
d. More than one of the above
 Winter 2010 Answers

1. A. Nonlinear loads like soft starters, rectifiers, etc., produce harmonics because
of the SCR/diode commutation. Motor starting generally causes the system
voltage to sag but the associated vacuum contactors will introduce spikes while
switching. Mother Nature delivers lighting strikes which causes ground planes to
shift or high voltage spikes.

2. A. According to IEEE-519-1992

3. D. Capacitor banks often cause resonance due to interaction between capacitive

and inductive impedances.

4. True. Many VFD manufacturers still use line-to-ground voltage for SCR control,
surge protection, and filtering.

5. D. To properly tune a filtered capacitor banks all of the above and many other
factors must be considered.
TECH QUIZ

Arc-Flash Mitigation | By J im Wh it e
Shermco Industries

The topic of electrical arc flash has been an important issue for several years now. Engineers have
been creating and manufacturers are producing innovative new solutions for this life-threatening
problem. This month’s Tech Quiz will cover issues related to electrical arc flash.

Jim White is the 1.  Electrical systems rated less than 4.  At what voltage does the arc flash
Training director for 240 volts fed by a transformer with a hazard not exist?
Shermco Industries and
the principal Shermco
capacity of <125 kVA are not considered a. 480 volts
representative on the an arc-flash hazard. b. 277 volts
NFPA 70B committee. a. True, according to IEEE 1584 c. 208 volts
Jim is the alternate NETA b.
False d. None of the above
representative on the
NFPA 70E committee
and serves as the NETA
representative on the IEEE/ 2.  Arc -flash protective clothing and 5.  When wearing an arc-rated face shield,
NFPA Arc-Flash Hazard equipment are rated to: what is the correct body position when
Work Group (RTPC) a.  Provide protection to the value operating electrical equipment?
Ad Hoc Committee. He
served as the Chairman of
indicated as the “arc rating” or a. Extend the left arm and turn the
the 2008 IEEE Electrical “ATPV” face away from the hazard
Safety Workshop. Jim is b.  Provide a 50% probability of a burn b. Extend the right arm and turn the
a NETA Certified Level at the arc rating or ATPV face away from the hazard
IV Electrical Testing
c.  Provide protection in excess of the arc c. Extend either arm and turn your
Technician and a member
of the NETA Safety rating or ATPV face towards the hazard
Committee. d.  Allow a person to safely work on an d. Get an apprentice to do it for you
energized electrical power system

3. Which of the following is NOT a rule-of

thumb concerning arc flash:
See answers on page 105.

a.  Incident energy decreases by the

inverse square of the distance
b.  Incident energy is proportional to time
c.  Each layer of clothing under arc-rated
reduces the heat to the body by ~ 50%
d.  Incident energy is inversely
proportional to short circuit current

SPRING 2011 tech quiz

 TECH QUIZ ANSWERS

A N S W E R S

A ns we r 1 Ans w er 3 An sw er 5
b - False – I get this question d – The other three are good rules-of- c – Actually, I would go for “d”, but
a lot. Just because the IEEE 1584 thumb to keep in mind when working apprentices can be in short supply at
says that calculations may not be on exposed, energized electrical times. I like to follow what I call the
necessary, that does not automatically conductors or circuit parts. Keep hinge-side rule. I stand on the side
mean there is no hazard concerning in mind that if the incident energy with the hinge, extend whichever arm
arc flash. Firstly, that portion of the decreases by the inverse square of the is appropriate, face the hazard and
1584 guide only applies to three-phase distance, it will also increase by the operate the equipment. Some people
power systems fed by a transformer square of the distance as you go nearer fault that approach, reasoning that the
rated less than 125 kVA and less than to an arc source. PPE is designed to protect you, but I
240 volts. A single-phase transformer would say arc-rated PPE is designed to
can have more arc energy. Secondly, protect you if its rating is not exceeded.
there is a hazard to the hands and arms, Ans w er 4 Who knows if the OCPD is going
even at the lower energy levels, not to d – Trick question! At the October to function correctly? The door will
mention the hazard of flying molten NFPA 70E ROP meeting David Wallis probably blow open and could strike
metal that could be ejected from the with OSHA presented two instances the operator, causing injury. However,
equipment. The hazard is reduced, where people suffered serious injury at I will take a concussion or broken arm
not eliminated. These calculations are 120/240 volts. One worker received over being crispy-fried. Main point,
less than convincing, especially at the significant third-degree burns to his face the hazard so the face shield does
lower voltages. The new IEEE/NFPA chest, hand, and arm. not become a heat scoop.
Joint Collaboration Project should
shed some new light on this area.

A ns we r 2 NFPA Disclaimer: Although Jim White is a member of the NFPA Technical Committee for both
NFPA 70E “Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace” and NFPA 70B “Recommended Practice for
b – According to ASTM F1959, Electrical Equipment Maintenance”, the views and opinions expressed in this message are purely the author’s
arc-rated clothing and equipment are and shall not be considered an official position of the NFPA or any of its Technical Committees and shall not
rated to allow a 50 percent probability be considered to be, nor be relied upon as, a formal interpretation or promotion of the NFPA. Readers are
encouraged to refer to the entire text of all referenced documents.
of a second-degree burn if that
clothing is exposed to the rated
incident energy for 1/10th second.
Some clothing could experience break-
open at its rating.

tech quiz answers NETAWORLD

TECH QUIZ

Switchgear & Circuit Breakers By Ji m Whi te

Shermco Industries
Many companies don’t maintain their switchgear in the manner they should which can
lead to problems and safety issues. We have seen instances where the protective relays have
been calibrated, but the switchgear and circuit breakers have not been maintained. A lot of
maintenance is driven by insurance company dictates, but that does not ensure a safe or efficient
electrical system. The following questions will help sharpen your maintenance knowledge:
Jim White is the 1. You are a facility maintenance manager 3. Using ANSI/NETA ATS-2009 as a
Training director for and you have several sections of medium- reference, what is the minimum voltage to
Shermco Industries and
the principal Shermco
voltage switchgear. This equipment has a be used for performing a dc overpotential
representative on the high reliability requirement and is in good test on 15 kV switchgear?
NFPA 70B committee. condition. According to ANSI/NETA a. 15 kV
Jim is the alternate NETA MTS-2011, how often should it be b. 25 kV
representative on the
electrically tested and maintained? c. 27 kV
NFPA 70E committee
and serves as the NETA a. 6 months d. 37 kV
representative on the IEEE/ b. 12 months
NFPA Arc-Flash Hazard c. 18 months 4. ANSI/NETA ATS-2009 recommends
Work Group (RTPC) d. 24 months what maximum value of leakage current
Ad Hoc Committee. He
served as the Chairman of
when performing the dc overpotential test
the 2008 IEEE Electrical 2. C
 able connected to bus using lugs is always on 15 kV switchgear?
Safety Workshop. Jim is an issue. My experience has been that when a. 1 Megohm/kV test voltage
a NETA Certified Level checked for tightness every three years, plus 1 Megohm
IV Electrical Testing
roughly 50 percent of the connections b. 1.0 microampere
Technician and a member
of the NETA Safety require retorquing. What three methods c. 100 microamperes
Committee. does ANSI/NETA MTS-2011 recommend d. No failure of insulation
for checking for connection problems?
a. _______________ 5. What is the minimum insulation
b. _______________ resistance of control wiring in switchgear
c. _______________ based on ANSI/NETA MTS-2007?
See answers on page 107.

a. 1 Megohm
b. 2 Megohm
c. 4 Megohm
d. No failure of insulation

24 • SUMMER 2011 tech quiz

 TECH QUIZ ANSWERS

A N S W E R S

A nswe r 1 A nsw e r 2 A ns w e r 4

1. You are a facility maintenance 2. C

 able connected to bus using lugs 4. ANSI/NETA ATS-2009
manager and you have several is always an issue. My experience recommends
sections of medium-voltage has been that when checked for what maximum value of leakage
switchgear. This equipment has a tightness every three years, roughly current
high reliability requirement and 50 percent of the connections when performing the dc
is in good condition. According require retorquing. What three overpotential test
to ANSI/NETA MTS-2011, how methods does ANSI/NETA MTS- on 15 kV switchgear?
often should it be electrically tested 2011 recommend for checking for a. 1 Megohm/kV test voltage
and maintained? connection problems? plus 1 Megohm
a. 6 months a. Using a microhmmeter b. 1.0 microampere
b. Using Appendix B, switchgear b. Using a calibrated torque c. 100 microamperes
with a high reliability wrench d. No failure of insulation
requirement and in good c. Performing a thermographic
condition would have a survey A ns w e r 5
multiplication factor of 0.5.
The recommended interval A nsw e r 3 5. What is the minimum insulation
for electrical testing and resistance of control wiring in
maintenance is 24 months, so 3. Using ANSI/NETA ATS-2009 as switchgear based on ANSI/NETA
it would be 0.5 x 24 months = a reference, what is the minimum MTS-2007?
12 months. voltage to a. 1 Megohm
c. 18 months be used for performing a dc b. 2 Megohm
d. 24 months overpotential c. 4 Megohm
test on 15 kV switchgear? d. No failure of insulation
a. 15 kV
b. 25 kV
c. 27 kV
d. 37 kV

NFPA Disclaimer: Although Jim White is a member of the NFPA Technical Committee for both
NFPA 70E “Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace” and NFPA 70B “Recommended Practice for
Electrical Equipment Maintenance”, the views and opinions expressed in this message are purely the author’s
and shall not be considered an official position of the NFPA or any of its Technical Committees and shall not
be considered to be, nor be relied upon as, a formal interpretation or promotion of the NFPA. Readers are
encouraged to refer to the entire text of all referenced documents.

tech quiz answers NETAWORLD • 107

TECH QUIZ

No. 96

WEATHER-RELATED FATALITIES BY J IM WHI TE

Shermco Industries

With summer fast approaching (at least in Texas) I thought it might be a good time to do a little
weather trivia and IQ. Answers are from the National Weather Service.

Jim White is the 1. Which state had the most heat-related 4. What are the signs of heatstroke?
Training Director for fatalities in 2010? a.____________________
Shermco Industries and
the principal Shermco
a. Texas b. ____________________
representative on the b. Nevada c. ____________________
NFPA 70B committee. c. Pennsylvania d. ____________________
Jim is the alternate NETA d. Florida
representative on the
5. What steps should you take to
NFPA 70E committee
and serves as the NETA 2. Which state had the most cold weather- treat heatstroke?
representative on the IEEE/ related fatalities? a. _____________________
NFPA Arc-Flash Hazard a. Wisconsin b. _____________________
Work Group (RTPC) b. South Carolina c. _____________________
Ad Hoc Committee. He
served as the Chairman of
c. Florida d. _____________________
the 2008 IEEE Electrical d. Illinois
Safety Workshop. Jim is
a NETA Certified Level 3. Which state had the most weather-related
IV Electrical Testing
fatalities in 2010?
Technician and a member
of the NETA Safety a. Tennessee
Committee. b. Arkansas
c. Illinois
d. Pennsylvania
See answers on page 107.

36 • FALL 2011 TECH QUIZ

 TECH QUIZ ANSWERS

No. 96

A N S W E R S
A NS WE R 1 ANS W ER 3 AN SW ER 5

1. Which state had the most heat- 3. Which state had the most weather- 5. What steps should you take to
related fatalities in 2010? related fatalities in 2010? treat heatstroke?
In order from highest to lowest: In order from highest to lowest: If someone you are working with
a. Nevada 23 a. Tennessee 53 exhibits the symptoms of heatstroke,
b. Pennsylvania/ b. Arkansas 36 do the following:
Tennessee (tied) 22 c. Illinois 29 a. Move them into the shade
c. Mississippi/ d. Mississippi, Texas and b. Call 911
New York (tied) 10 Pennsylvania 27 c. Lie on your back with the head
d. Arkansas 7 and shoulders elevated
Texas had four and Florida had 1. ANS W ER 4 d. Remove outer layers of
Louisiana and Maryland both had 6. clothing, if possible
These numbers were quite a surprise. 4. What are the signs of heatstroke? e. Wet underlayers with tepid
Recognizing the symptoms of water (not warm or cool)
A NS WE R 2 heatstroke is important to surviving f. Drip water on skin to cool
heatstroke. slowly
2. Which state had the most cold a. Skin is hot to the touch g. Rehydrate with small sips of
weather-related fatalities? b. Rapid strong pulse water once temperature comes
In order from highest to lowest: c. Severe headache down some (if conscious)
a. Illinois 18 d. Nausea
b. Tennessee 6 e. Possible unconsciousness
c. Mississippi 3
d. Florida 2
Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, South
Carolina and Wisconsin all had 1 each.
What’s going on in Illinois?

NFPA Disclaimer: Although Jim White is a member of the NFPA Technical Committee for both
NFPA 70E “Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace” and NFPA 70B “Recommended Practice for
Electrical Equipment Maintenance,” the views and opinions expressed in this message are purely the author’s
and shall not be considered an official position of the NFPA or any of its technical committees and shall not
be considered to be, nor be relied upon as, a formal interpretation or promotion of the NFPA. Readers are
encouraged to refer to the entire text of all referenced documents.

TECH QUIZ ANSWERS NETAWORLD • 107

TECH QUIZ

No. 97

PLACING EQUIPMENT IN AN
ELECTRICALLY-SAFE WORK CONDITION
B Y JI M W H IT E, Shermco Industries

1. List the seven steps involved with 4. Which NFPA 70E article covers placing
placing equipment in an electrically-safe equipment in an electrically-safe
Jim White is the work condition: work condition?
Training Director for a. ________________ a. Article 100
Shermco Industries and
the principal Shermco
b. ________________ b. Article 110
representative on the c. ________________ c. Article 120
NFPA 70B committee. d. ________________ d. Article 130
Jim is the alternate NETA e. ________________
representative on the
f. ________________ 5. Name the hazard involved with placing an
NFPA 70E committee
and serves as the NETA g. ________________ electrical system in an electrically-safe
representative on the IEEE/ work condition.
NFPA Arc-Flash Hazard 2. Which OSHA regulation contains the a. Backfeeds
Work Group (RTPC) requirements for electrical lockout/tagout? b. Induced voltages
Ad Hoc Committee. He
served as the Chairman of
a. 1910.147 c. Misreading single-lines or inaccurate
the 2008 IEEE Electrical b. 1910.335 single-lines
Safety Workshop. Jim is c. 1910.333 d. Inaccurate or incomplete procedures
a NETA Certified Level d. 1910.137 e. Assumptions made by workers
IV Electrical Testing
and employers
Technician and a member
of the NETA Safety 3. How does electrical lockout/tagout differ f. All the above
Committee. from mechanical lockout/tagout?
a. Equipment is not considered
deenergized until it has been tested.
b. Electrical equipment has to be
disconnected from energy sources.
See answers on page 113.

c. Electrical lockout/tagout requires the

use of nylon cable ties or their equivalent.
d. They are the same.

38 • WINTER 2011 TECH QUIZ

 TECH QUIZ ANSWERS

No. 97

A N S W E R S
A NS WE R 1 ANS W ER 3 AN SW ER 5

1. List the seven steps involved 3. How does electrical lockout/tagout 5. Name the hazard involved
with placing equipment in an differ from mechanical with placing an electrical system in
electrically-safe work condition: lockout/tagout? an electrically-safe work condition.
The seven steps are: a. Equipment is not considered f. All the above
a. Determine all possible sources deenergized until it has f. There are specific hazards associated
of electrical energy. been tested. with the different configurations of
b. After properly interrupting a. is the correct answer. 1910.147 electrical power systems. Double-
the load, open the disconnecting requires that energy sources be blocked ended substations have twice the
device for each source. or restrained, and it also requires that incident energy if both main breakers
c. When possible, visually verify all a nylon cable tie or its equivalent be and the tie breaker are closed. Ring
blades or contacts are open. used for tags. The main difference is bus or loop systems will usually have
d. Apply lockout/tagout devices. that electrical lockout/tagout requires energized stabs on the end breakers.
e. Operate the circuit or device, if a test to verify the absence of voltage. Tie breakers can have both sets of stabs
possible, to ensure deactivation. Until this test is performed, it must be energized. The important thing is to
f. Test each conductor for the considered energized. be aware of the configuration of the
absence of voltage. system and expect the unexpected. In
g. If necessary, ground the circuit. ANS W ER 4 other words, don’t make assumptions.

4. Which NFPA 70E article covers

A NS WE R 2 placing equipment in an electrically-
safe work condition?
2. Which OSHA regulation contains c. Article 120
the requirements for electrical Article 100 covers definitions,
lockout/tagout? Article 110 covers general
c. 1910.333 requirements, Article 120 covers NFPA Disclaimer: Although Jim White is a
1910.147 covers lockout/tagout placing equipment in an electrically- member of the NFPA Technical Committee for both
of mechanical equipment, while NFPA 70E “Standard for Electrical Safety in
safe work condition, and the Workplace” and NFPA 70B “Recommended
1910.333(b) covers lockout/tagout Article 130 covers work involving Practice for Electrical Equipment Maintenance,”
of electrical equipment. electrical hazards. the views and opinions expressed in this message are
purely the author’s and shall not be considered an
official position of the NFPA or any of its technical
committees and shall not be considered to be, nor be
relied upon as, a formal interpretation or promotion
of the NFPA. Readers are encouraged to refer to the
entire text of all referenced documents.

TECH QUIZ ANSWERS NETAWORLD • 113

TECH QUIZ

No. 98

SYMMETRICAL COMPONENTS AND

PROTECTIVE RELAYING
B Y JI M W H IT E, Shermco Industries

1. What is a phasor? 4. The diagram below shows a core-balance CT.

a. Last seen on Star Trek, the Search for What is another name for this type of CT?
Jim White is the Spock, a phasor is a weapon that can be set
Training Director for for stun or kill.
Shermco Industries and
the principal Shermco
b. Similar to a vector, a phasor is used to
representative on the indicate both amplitude and phase angle.
NFPA 70B committee. Phasors can represent any quantity that can
Jim is the alternate NETA be represented by a sinusoid.
representative on the
c. An instrument used to determine the phase
NFPA 70E committee
and serves as the NETA angle between voltage and current.
representative on the IEEE/ d. The angular difference between the voltage
NFPA Arc-Flash Hazard and current commonly referred to as theta.
Work Group (RTPC)
Ad Hoc Committee. He
served as the Chairman of
2. A negative sequence relay is used to:
the 2008 IEEE Electrical a. determine if the generator is supplying an a. Positive sequence
Safety Workshop. Jim is unbalanced load. b. Negative sequence
a NETA Certified Level b. determine when current flow is in the c. Zero sequence
IV Electrical Testing
incorrect direction within an intertied d. Phase fault protection
Technician and a member
of the NETA Safety bus system.
Committee. c. determine when the phase rotation of a
motor is incorrect. 5. Identify the following three currents:
d. determine when the impedance of a a. IO ___________
generator’s rotor increases to above b. I2 ___________
normal values. c. I1 ___________
See answers on page 107.

3. A three-phase bolted fault will primarily

produce what type of current?
a. Positive sequence current
b. Zero sequence current
c. Negative sequence current
d. Midrange sequence current

42 • SPRING 2012 TECH QUIZ

 TECH QUIZ ANSWERS

No. 98

A N S W E R S
ANS WE R 1 AN SW ER 3 AN SW ER 5

1. What is a phasor? 3. A three-phase bolted fault will 5. Identify the following three currents:
b. Similar to a vector, a phasor is primarily produce what type a. IO – zero sequence current
used to indicate both amplitude of current? b. I2 – negative sequence current
and phase angle. Phasors can a. Positive sequence current c. I1 – positive sequence current
represent any quantity that can A three-phase bolted fault will produce Although we have used current as
be represented by a sinusoid. primarily positive sequence currents, the example in these questions, positive,
My personal answer would be A, but while a phase-to-ground fault will cause negative and zero sequence voltages can
that’s not correct. The correct answer is equal values of positive, negative, and also be present in the electrical system.
B. A phasor is used to show amplitude zero sequence current. Any imbalance in
(magnitude) and phase angle. Using the electrical system causes some negative
phasors to analyze a three-phase system sequence current.
is much easier than trying to use
sine waves. AN SW ER 4

ANS WE R 2 4. The diagram below shows a core-

balance CT. What is another name
2. A negative sequence relay is used to: for this type of CT?
a. determine if the generator is
supplying an unbalanced load.
Negative sequence relays detect
unbalanced currents and can cause a
trip operation to prevent overheating of
the generator.
NFPA Disclaimer: Although Jim White is a
member of the NFPA Technical Committee for both
NFPA 70E “Standard for Electrical Safety in
the Workplace” and NFPA 70B “Recommended
Practice for Electrical Equipment Maintenance,”
the views and opinions expressed in this message are
c. Zero sequence purely the author’s and shall not be considered an
A core-balance CT is often referred to official position of the NFPA or any of its technical
committees and shall not be considered to be, nor be
as a zero-sequence CT. relied upon as, a formal interpretation or promotion
of the NFPA. Readers are encouraged to refer to the
entire text of all referenced documents.

TECH QUIZ ANSWERS NETAWORLD • 107

TECH QUIZ

No. 99

LUBRICANTS USED IN
CIRCUIT BREAKERS AND SWITCHES
B Y JI M W H IT E, Shermco Industries
James R. (Jim) White is
the Training Director of
Electrical equipment consists mostly of mechanical components.
Shermco Industries, Inc., In low- and medium-voltage switches, circuit breakers and
in Dallas, Texas. He is the
principal member on the disconnects these components have parts that slide, rotate and
NFPA technical committee
“Recommended Practice wear against each other. Lubricants reduce the effects of this wear
for Electrical Equipment
Maintenance” (NFPA
and prevent binding and seizing.
70B). Jim represents
NETA as an alternate
member of the NFPA 1. Circuit breaker contacts should 4. Which single lubricant is acceptable for use
Technical Committee be lubricated: in both the conductive and mechanical areas
“Electrical Safety in the a. every six months. of circuit breakers and switches?
Workplace” (NFPA 70E) b. only in corrosive atmospheres. a. D50H38® (zinc chromate-based)
and represents NETA
on the ASTM F18 c. to prevent burning. b. No-Ox-Id A-Special®
Committee “Electrical d. only in hospitals. c. Mobil 28®
Protective Equipment For d. Molykote®
Workers”. Jim is an IEEE 2. Conventional grease is typically
Senior Member and in
2011 received the IEEE/
composed of: 5. List the three types of lubricants (not the
PCIC Electrical Safety a. emulsifiers and oil. specific lubricant) and where they are used in
Excellence award. Jim is a b. long-chain hydrocarbons. a circuit breaker:
past Chairman (2008) of c. natural esters and emulsifiers. a. _______________________________
the IEEE Electrical Safety d. finely ground bronze and oil. b._______________________________
Workshop (ESW).
c. _______________________________
3. List three important areas to lubricate on
circuit breakers and switches.
See answers on page 117.

a. _______________________________
b. _______________________________
c. _______________________________

50 U SUMMER 2012 TECH QUIZ

 TECH QUIZ ANSWERS

No. 99

A N S W E R S
A NS WE R 1 ANSWER 4
1. Circuit breaker contacts should be lubricated: 4. Which single lubricant is acceptable for use in both the
b. Circuit breaker contacts usually should not be lubricated. conductive and mechanical areas of circuit breakers and switches?
The heat from the current flow through the contacts breaks c. Each manufacturer recommends a specific lubricant for the
the lubricant down and causes contact resistance to increase. mechanical components such as the operating mechanism
Each time the contacts are opened or closed, arcing takes and one for the conductive areas such as the contact pivot.
place on the contact surfaces, breaking the lubricant down These lubricants cannot be mixed. For example, on GE
even more quickly. Bolted pressure switches, however, often circuit breakers D50H38 was recommended for use only
recommend lubricating their main contacts. There are in the conductive areas, while D50H15 was used in the
some greases that add different ingredients to obtain better mechanical areas. Mobile 28, a red, synthetic lubricant,
characteristics, such as graphite, zinc chromate or silver. is acceptable to most manufacturers for use in both the
They still use an emulsifier, which dries out over time. conductive and mechanical areas. Before substituting
lubricants, always contact the manufacturer for your specific
ANSWER 2 application. This may sound like a dodge on my part, but
2. Conventional grease is typically composed of: Mobil 28 may not be the best lubricant at some temperatures
a. Conventional greases, that is, greases made from petroleum or environmental or load conditions for every circuit breaker
compounds, are made from emulsifiers and oil. Emulsifiers or switch. Also, when using a synthetic lubricant, such as
keep the oil in suspension and allow it to cling to surfaces. Mobil 28, take special care not to overlubricate. It should
The oil does the actual lubrication. As the grease ages and/ be applied in a very thin coating; just enough to see on the
or is heated, the oil evaporates, leaving only the emulsifiers, surface. Overlubrication will cause it to liquefy and run,
which get gummy. which in turn attracts dirt, unlike the thicker greases, which
have more “cling”.
ANSWER 3
3. List three important areas to lubricate on circuit breakers ANSWER 5
and switches. 5. List the three types of lubricants (not the specific lubricant) and
a. Contact pivot where they are used in a circuit breaker:
b. Linkages a. Conductive. For use in the contact pivot, primary and
c. Operating mechanism secondary disconnects and other conductive areas.
These can consist of zinc chromate, silver, graphite
or other compounds.
b. Nonconductive. For use on latches, bearings and bearing
surfaces. Usually petroleum-based, but can be lithium-based.
c. Oil. For use on linkages. Typically a 20-30 weight
oil is recommended.

NFPA Disclaimer: Although Jim White is a member of the NFPA Technical Committee for both NFPA 70E “Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace” and
NFPA 70B “Recommended Practice for Electrical Equipment Maintenance,” the views and opinions expressed in this message are purely the author’s and shall not be
considered an official position of the NFPA or any of its technical committees and shall not be considered to be, nor be relied upon as, a formal interpretation or promotion of
the NFPA. Readers are encouraged to refer to the entire text of all referenced documents.

TECH QUIZ ANSWERS NETAWORLD U 117

TECH QUIZ

No. 100

BATTERIES AND BATTERY CHARGERS

BY JIM WHITE, Shermco Industries

James R. (Jim) White is

the Training Director of
Batteries and the supporting charging equipment can easily be
Shermco Industries, Inc., overlooked until they are needed. Most facilities use a battery
in Dallas, Texas. He is the
principal member on the bank to supply dc operating current for opening and closing
NFPA technical committee
“Recommended Practice circuit breakers, spring-charging motors, and indicators.
for Electrical Equipment
Maintenance” (NFPA
Without the dc supply, circuit breakers will not operate.
70B). Jim represents
NETA as an alternate
member of the NFPA 1. An indication that a vented lead-acid 4. When performing a load test on a battery
Technical Committee battery is in trouble is when its internal bank, what percent remaining capacity
“Electrical Safety in the impedance increases ___% above indicates the need to replace the batteries?
Workplace” (NFPA 70E) its as-installed impedance. a. 20%
and represents NETA
on the ASTM F18 a. 5% b. 40%
Committee “Electrical b. 20% c. 60%
Protective Equipment For c. 30% d. 80%
Workers”. Jim is an IEEE d. 45%
Senior Member and in
2011 received the IEEE/
5. The only repair for sulfation is to:
PCIC Electrical Safety 2. Which of the following is not an a. equalize and increase float voltage.
Excellence award. Jim is a example of a VRLA (valve-regulated b. use a mixture of boric acid and
past Chairman (2008) of lead-acid) battery? potassium hydroxide.
the IEEE Electrical Safety a. nickel-metal hydride c. replace the batteries with new ones.
Workshop (ESW).
b. gel cells d. retighten all intercell connections.
c. absorbed glass mat
d. maintenance free

3. Sulfation in flooded-cell, lead-acid batteries

See answers on page 107.

is indicated by:
a. streaks of oil on the surface of
the electrolyte.
b. brownish nodules adhering to the case.
c. white salts appearing on the surface
of the plates.
d. white milky substance that appears on the
cells and jar.

34 U FALL 2012 TECH QUIZ

 TECH QUIZ ANSWERS

No. 100

A N S W E R S

-7 ,Ê£
-7 ,Ê{
1. An indication that a vented lead-acid battery is in trouble 4. When performing a load test on a battery bank,
is when its internal impedance increases ___% above what percent remaining capacity indicates the need to
its as-installed impedance. replace the batteries?
b. When the internal impedance of a cell increases by more d. When battery capacity decreases to 80% of its initial rating,
than 20%, it is an indication that the battery is starting to it is time to look for a replacement.
deteriorate and should be monitored more closely. This test
is often referred to as the ohmic test and is performed by
-7 ,Êx
applying an ac voltage across the battery and measuring the 5. The only repair for sulfation is to:
internal impedance of the battery. a. Since sulfation occurs when a battery is in a discharged
state, equalizing is the cure. The problem is that all of

-7 ,ÊÓ the sulfates usually do not recombine and the battery
2. Which of the following is not an example of a VRLA loses some capacity. This is a normal part of the
(valve-regulated lead-acid) battery? charge/discharge cycle, but when a battery stays in a low
a. VRLA batteries (valve-regulated lead-acid) are increasingly state of charge, sulfation can be permanent.
used for various standby electrical power applications Battery shedding will also increase as the discharged
including emergency generators and switchgear. electrolyte now contains more water and will soften the lead
The most common types of VRLA batteries are gel cells plate material. If that shedded material builds up to about
and absorbed glass mat. These batteries are often referred halfway to the plates, a constant discharge begins
to as maintenance free, although low maintenance would between the shedded material and the plates, which results
better describe them. in a battery that will not maintain a charge.

-7 ,ÊÎ
3. Sulfation in flooded-cell, lead-acid batteries
is indicated by:
c. Sulfation results from the battery being in an undercharged
state for an extended period of time. As the battery
discharges, the active lead material on the plates will react
with the sulfates in the electrolyte and form a lead sulfate
on the plates. This appears as a white, granular deposit on
the plates.

NFPA Disclaimer:
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considered an official position of the NFPA or any of its technical committees and shall not be considered to be, nor be relied upon as, a formal interpretation or promotion of
the NFPA. Readers are encouraged to refer to the entire text of all referenced documents.

TECH QUIZ ANSWERS NETAWORLD U 107

TECH QUIZ

No. 101

TESTING CIRCUIT BREAKERS

BY JIM WHITE, Shermco Industries

James R. (Jim) White is

the Training Director of
Circuit breakers must be tested to ensure that they function in
Shermco Industries, Inc., accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications. This issue of
in Dallas, Texas. He is the
principal member on the the NETAWorld Journal covers many of the newer technologies
NFPA technical committee
“Recommended Practice for proving that circuit breakers will function when called upon.
for Electrical Equipment
Maintenance” (NFPA
70B). Jim represents
1. First-Out Timing is performed to ensure: 4. What test will indicate the serviceability
NETA as an alternate a. the circuit breaker that should trip of a medium-voltage vacuum interrupter?
member of the NFPA first will do so. It’s also known as a. Vacuum Bottle Integrity Test
Technical Committee selective coordination . b. Magnetron Atmosphere Condition Test
“Electrical Safety in the b. the circuit breaker will rack out smoothly c. Insulation Power Factor (Doble)
Workplace” (NFPA 70E)
and represents NETA and without hesitation. d. Partial Discharge Testing
on the ASTM F18 c. the circuit breaker will open within
Committee “Electrical specifications after being closed for an 5. When performing insulation power factor
Protective Equipment For extended period of time. tests on medium-voltage circuit breakers,
Workers”. Jim is an IEEE
Senior Member and in
d. all phases of the circuit breaker open what quantity is normally measured?
2011 received the IEEE/ within 25milli-seconds of each other. a. Watts loss
PCIC Electrical Safety b. Percent power factor
Excellence award. Jim is a 2. What two quantities are usually measured c. Total amperage
past Chairman (2008) of with a circuit breaker motion analyzer? d. Cosine of the angle theta
the IEEE Electrical Safety
Workshop (ESW). a. Velocity and displacement.
b. Speed and direction.
c. Distance and force.
d. Angle and pressure.

3. Partial discharges are created by:

See answers on page 117.

a. ionization of air pockets within

the insulation.
b. moisture that is trapped within
the insulation.
c. deep discounting at the Dollar
General store.
d. carbon deposits vibrating within
the insulation.

28 U SPRING 2013 TECH QUIZ

 TECH QUIZ ANSWERS

No. 101

A N S W E R S
ANSWER 1 ANSWER 4
1. First-Out Timing is performed to ensure: 4. What test will indicate the serviceability of a medium-
c. Circuit breakers often sit for extended periods of time voltage vacuum interrupter?
without operating. As they sit, current is flowing through a. Vacuum bottle integrity test. The vacuum bottle integrity
them, drying out their lubricants. When they are called test will detect vacuum bottles that have insufficient vacuum
on to operate, maybe they will or maybe they won’t. The to safely interrupt fault-level current.
problem is that they will often work just fine after a few
operations, but what will they do on that very first trip? ANSWER 5
That’s the one that really counts. 5. When performing insulation power factor tests on
medium-voltage circuit breakers, what quantity is
normally measured?
ANSWER 2 a. Because the device is mostly resistive, the specimen’s watts
2. What two quantities are usually measured with a circuit loss is usually recorded, instead of percent power factor.
breaker motion analyzer?
a. Circuit breaker time/travel analyzers can measure many
things; contact bounce, overtravel and contact wipe.
Their primary purpose though, is to measure the distance
the contacts travel (displacement) and how fast they
move (velocity).

ANSWER 3
3. Partial discharges are created by:
a. Voids and air pockets in insulation can have electrical
discharges (ionization) when they are in high-voltage fields.
This discharge can be measured and monitored, either while
the equipment is energized (for continuous monitoring) or
during specific tests.

NFPA Disclaimer: Although Jim White is a member of the NFPA Technical Committee for both NFPA 70E “Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace” and
NFPA 70B “Recommended Practice for Electrical Equipment Maintenance,” the views and opinions expressed in this message are purely the author’s and shall not be
considered an official position of the NFPA or any of its technical committees and shall not be considered to be, nor be relied upon as, a formal interpretation or promotion of
the NFPA. Readers are encouraged to refer to the entire text of all referenced documents.

TECH QUIZ ANSWERS NETAWORLD U 117

TECH QUIZ

No. 102

WIND POWER
B Y JI M W H I TE , Shermco Industries
James R. (Jim) White
is the Training Director Wind power generation sites have become common throughout
of Shermco Industries,
Inc., in Dallas, Texas.
the U.S. Wind generation presents some unique challenges for
He is the principal maintenance personnel, as well as for safety concerns.
member on the NFPA
technical committee 1. Which state has the most wind generation 4. On average, wind generators produce power
“Recommended Practice
for Electrical Equipment capacity (in MW)? ___ % of the time.
Maintenance” (NFPA a. Illinois a. 30
70B). Jim represents b. California b. 50
NETA as an alternate c. Iowa c. 60
member of the NFPA
Technical Committee
d. Texas d. 90
“Electrical Safety
in the Workplace” 2. The most common cause of failure 5. The cost to install a wind generator is
(NFPA 70E) and in a wind turbine is: approximately ___ to ___ per MW of
represents NETA
on the ASTM F18
a. Gearboxes installed nameplate capacity.
Committee “Electrical b. Blades a. $800,000 to $1,200,000.
Protective Equipment c. Control system b. $1,000,000 to $1,300,000.
For Workers”. Jim is an d. Electrical system c. $1,500,000 to $2,000,000.
IEEE Senior Member
d. $1,300,000 to $2,200,000.
and in 2011 received the
IEEE/PCIC Electrical 3. The largest commercially-available wind
Safety Excellence
generator produces:
award. Jim is a past
Chairman (2008) of the a. 8.0 MW
IEEE Electrical Safety b. 7.6 MW
Workshop (ESW). c. 6.6 MW
d. 5.0 MW
See answers on page 120.

16 U SUMMER 2013 TECH QUIZ

 TECH QUIZ ANSWERS

No. 102
A N S W E R S
A NS W ER 1 AN S WE R 3
1. Which state has the most wind generation capacity 3. The largest commercially-available wind
(in MW)? generator produces:
d. Texas currently has the largest installed wind generation b. Vestas is set to manufacture an 8 MW wind turbine in
capacity at 10,929 MW, per Wikipedia. California has 2015, but the current winner goes to Enercon at 7.58
4,570 MW, Iowa has 4,536 MW, and Illinois has 3,055 MW. It has a rotor diameter of 127 meters and is not
MW. The Alta Wind Energy Center in Kern County, used for offshore applications, although the Vestas
California is the largest US wind site with 1,020 MW of turbine will be.
generation, and the Roscoe Wind farm in Nolan County,
Texas is second with 781 MW of generation. AN S WE R 4
4. On average, wind generators produce power ___ %
A NS W ER 2
of the time.
2. The most common cause of failure in a wind turbine is: a. In the US, wind generators produce power at about
d. Failure of the gearbox is a major concern due to the 30 percent of the time (source Energy Information
downtime involved, but the electrical system is the Agency). In Europe, it is closer to 13 percent of the
primary cause of failure for wind generators. Figure time. Once a wind generator’s speed falls below its
1 shows relative failure rates of components based optimum output speed, the power it produces falls
on a study performed by B. Hahn, Institut für Solare rapidly. As an example, for every halving of wind speed
Energieversorgungstechnik in a paper titled Reliability a wind generator’s output falls by a factor of 8. Most
Assessment of Wind Turbines in Germany. Other studies wind generators produce maximum power at about 25
have shown a similar pattern. to 30 mph.

Drive Train AN S WE R 5
Sensors
2% Hydraulics
12%
10% 5. The cost to install a wind generator is approximately
Control
System Break ___ to ___ per MW of installed nameplate capacity.
16% 6% d. According to Windustry, the cost per MW of installed
Hub capacity is between $1,300,000 and $2,200,000. This
6%
cost has gone down substantially over the last few years.
Electrical
Gear Box The larger the turbine, the more cost effective it becomes.
3%
Structural
Electrical Parts
NFPA Disclaimer: Although Jim White is a member of
System 3%
the NFPA Technical Committee for both NFPA 70E “Standard
19% Yaw System
Mechanical for Electrical Safety in the Workplace” and NFPA 70B
10%
Components “Recommended Practice for Electrical Equipment Maintenance,”
Generator Rotor Blades the views and opinions expressed in this message are purely
6% 9% the author’s and shall not be considered an official position of
the NFPA or any of its technical committees and shall not be
considered to be, nor be relied upon as, a formal interpretation
Figure 1: Component Failure for Wind Turbines or promotion of the NFPA. Readers are encouraged to refer to the
entire text of all referenced documents.

120 U SUMMER 2013 TECH QUIZ

TECH QUIZ

No. 103

OVERCURRENT COORDINATION
B Y JI M W H I TE , Shermco Industries
James R. (Jim) White
is the Training Director This Tech Quiz looks at alternatives to overcurrent protective
of Shermco Industries,
Inc., in Dallas, Texas.
relaying due to coordination issues. Depending on the specific
He is the principal
member on the NFPA
type of system, there can be many choices.
technical committee 1. Differential protective relay schemes 4. Directional overcurrent relays have a charac-
“Recommended Practice typically have their zones established by teristic known as the maximum torque angle.
for Electrical Equipment
Maintenance” (NFPA current transformers. In the figure below, at How is the MTA determined during testing?
70B). Jim represents the instant current flows into _____, it also a. Find the zero torque angles and divide
NETA as an alternate flows out of _____. by two.
member of the NFPA a. H1 – X2 b. Plot the characteristic circle and find the
Technical Committee
“Electrical Safety
b. H2 – X1 minimum current to close the contacts.
in the Workplace” c. H1 – X1 c. Apply rated voltage and increase the
(NFPA 70E) and d. H2 – X2 current slowly until contact closure.
represents NETA d. Maintain the restraint current and
on the ASTM F18 increase the operating current until
Committee “Electrical
Protective Equipment contact closure.
For Workers”. Jim is an
IEEE Senior Member 5. Directional overcurrent relays must see two
and in 2011 received the
conditions in order to operate. What are they?
IEEE/PCIC Electrical
Safety Excellence a. Current below the overcurrent unit
award. Jim is a past 2. Calculate the following values for a set point and the polarizing quantity
Chairman (2008) of the percentage differential relay with a 25 at an angle that closes the directional
IEEE Electrical Safety percent slope characteristic: unit contact.
Workshop (ESW).
r
3FTUSBJOU
DVSSFOU




" b. Current above the overcurrent unit

r
3FTUSBJOU
DVSSFOU




" set point and the polarizing quantity

r
0QFSBUJOH
DVSSFOU



@@@@@@ at an angle that opens the directional
See answers on page 120.

r
1FSDFOU
TMPQF




@@@@@@ unit contact.

r
3FMBZ
XJMM

XJMM
OPU
PQFSBUF
@@@@@@ c. Current below the overcurrent unit set
point and the polarizing quantity at an
3. Pilot wire relay schemes are a form of: angle that opens the directional unit.
a. Directional overcurrent d. Current above the overcurrent unit set
b. Impedance relaying point and the polarizing quantity at an
c. Differential relaying angle that closes the directional unit.
d. Zone interlocking

16 U FALL 2013 TECH QUIZ

 TECH QUIZ ANSWERS

No. 103
A N S W E R S
A NS W ERS 4. Directional overcurrent relays have a characteristic
1. Differential protective relay schemes typically have known as the maximum torque angle. How is the
their zones established by current transformers. In MTA determined during testing?
the figure below, at the instant current flows into a. A typical directional overcurrent relay has a directional
_____, it also flows out of _____. unit and an overcurrent unit. Both units must close
c. H1 – X1. It’s the rule of instantaneous current flow. their contacts in order to cause a trip. The directional
Current in the electrical system changes direction unit is frequently constructed to have maximum closing
instantaneously 120 times each second (60 cycles). As it torque when the voltage and current are in quadrature,
changes direction it does so throughout the entire system. i.e. 90 degrees apart. Theoretically, the closing zone
As current flows into H1, it flows out of X1 on the of the directional unit is +/- 90 degrees from the
positive half-cycle. On the next half-cycle, it flows into maximum torque angle. From a practical standpoint,
H2 and out X2, maintaining the relative instantaneous the closing zone is dependent on the maximum available
polarity of the differential scheme. test current. Thus, the maximum torque angle can be
calculated as being in the center of the two extreme
closing angles.
2. Calculate the following values for a percentage
differential relay with a 25 percent slope characteristic:
The operating current is the difference between the two 5. Directional overcurrent relays must see two conditions
restraining currents (differential), so it would be 25A. in order to operate. What are they?
The calculated imbalance (percent slope) of this example d. Directional overcurrent relays must have sufficient
would be: current to close the overcurrent contact and at an angle
relative to the applied polarizing quantity to cause the
directional unit to close its contact.

Under these conditions the relay would close its contacts

since the percent slope characteristic has been exceeded.

3. Pilot wire relay schemes are a form of:

c. Pilot wire relays are a form of differential relaying.
NFPA Disclaimer: Although Jim White is a member of
the NFPA Technical Committee for both NFPA 70E “Standard
for Electrical Safety in the Workplace” and NFPA 70B
“Recommended Practice for Electrical Equipment Maintenance,”
the views and opinions expressed in this message are purely
the author’s and shall not be considered an official position of
the NFPA or any of its technical committees and shall not be
considered to be, nor be relied upon as, a formal interpretation
or promotion of the NFPA. Readers are encouraged to refer to the
entire text of all referenced documents.

120 U FALL 2013 TECH QUIZ

TECH QUIZ

No. 104

James R. (Jim) White

is the Training Director
of Shermco Industries,
PROTECTION SCHEMES FOR
Inc., in Dallas, Texas.
He is the principal
member on the NFPA
LOW-VOLTAGE
LOW-VOL TAGE CIRCUIT BREAKERS
B Y JI M W H I TE , Shermco Industries
technical committee
“Recommended Practice Back in the day, circuit breaker protection schemes meant long-time delay (LTD),
for Electrical Equipment
Maintenance” (NFPA short-time delay (STD) and maybe ground fault. The concept of integrating low-
70B). Jim represents voltage circuit breakers into a protection scheme was on the horizon, but all through
NETA as an alternate the 1960’s and 1970’s, even into the 1980’s, low-voltage circuit breakers were pretty
member of the NFPA
Technical Committee
much stand-alone devices. With new technology comes new methods of applying
“Electrical Safety circuit breakers, and this Tech Quiz will see what your IQ is on the subject.
in the Workplace”
(NFPA 70E) and 1. Identify the low-voltage protection scheme 2. Thermal-magnetic molded-case circuit breakers
represents NETA shown in Figure 1: have an inherent characteristic known as:
on the ASTM F18 a. Residual ground fault a. Thermal imaging
Committee “Electrical b. Percentage differential protection b. Thermal memory
Protective Equipment
For Workers”. Jim is an
c. Zone selective interlocking c. Reactance recovery
IEEE Senior Member d. Directional carrier blocking d. Shunt tripping
and in 2011 received the
IEEE/PCIC Electrical 3. In the protection scheme shown in Figure 1,
Safety Excellence
award. Jim is a past label the action taken by each circuit breaker.
Chairman (2008) of the Possible actions are trip and restrain.
IEEE Electrical Safety a. Circuit breaker number 1 __________
Workshop (ESW). b. Circuit breaker number 2 __________
c. Circuit breaker number 3 __________

4. Reduced current let-through can be

accomplished by which two technologies (one
older and one newer)? Mark two answers.
a. Magnetic repulsion of the contacts
b. Shorter opening distances for contacts
See answers on page 120.

c. Lowered pickup setting on the instantaneous

d. Current-limiting fuses
Figure 1: Low-Voltage Circuit Breaker
Protective Scheme 5. Thermal imaging is used by what type of
overcurrent protective device (OCPD)?
a. Thermal-magnetic
b. Oil dashpot
c. Digital/microprocessor
d. Air dashpot

16 U WINTER 2013 TECH QUIZ

 TECH QUIZ ANSWERS

No. 104
A N S W E R S
A NS W ERS
1. C. Zone selective interlocking requires that the circuit breakers Breaker 1 will go into STD mode, and if Breaker 2 does
in a downstream zone communicate with breakers in the next not trip, it will trip after the set delay. Breaker 2 will trip on
upstream zone. If the downstream breaker sees fault current, Instantaneous mode as it is the breaker closest to the fault.
it sends a restraint signal to all breakers in the next upstream The advantage of zone selective interlocking is that there can
zone. The restraint signal keeps the breaker receiving it from be a time delay for protective devices coordination, but the
tripping with no intentional delay (instantaneously) and that breaker closest to the fault will function as an instantaneous
breaker will trip in its set time delay, if the downstream breaker trip breaker. Since Breaker 3 does not see any fault current, it
fails to clear the fault. A breaker seeing fault current, but not will restrain and not trip.
receiving a restraint signal, will trip instantaneously, regardless
of its delay setting. 4. A and D. Current-limiting circuit breakers often use the
magnetic force of the fault current to blow the contacts
2. B. The bimetal element in a molded-case circuit breaker has a apart. The greater the fault current, the more magnetic force
characteristic known as thermal memory. This characteristic is applied to the parting of the contacts. This action limits
allows the bimetal element to respond to current on the same both the operating time and short circuit pass-through
basis that the conductor will be heated by the current. As the current. At lower-level currents the breaker acts like a normal
current passes through the bimetal element, it will begin to LTD function breaker. Although old technology, current-
deflect, based on the value of the current. If the current drops limiting fuses provide a highly reliable method of decreasing
(such as in a motor starting), the bimetal will slow, then reset operating time and the short circuit pass-through current.
to an appropriate level for the current. If the current stays With both technologies, the short-circuit current has to be
at that higher level, it may stop or, if the current magnitude great enough to be in the current-limiting characteristic or
is high enough, continue to deflect until it trips the breaker. they will respond as time delay devices.
0MEFS
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NFUIPE

to mimic this characteristic and could false trip if the load 5. $

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FNQMPZ

fluctuated. thermal imaging to mimic thermal memory that is a
characteristic of thermal bimetal breakers.
3. A. Breaker 1 will restrain. Breaker 2 will communicate with
it and send a restraint signal, telling Breaker 1 that it sees the
fault current.
B. Breaker 2 will trip instantaneously. It does not receive a
restraint signal from Breaker 3, since Breaker 3 does not see NFPA Disclaimer: Although Jim White is a member of
the fault current. the NFPA Technical Committee for both NFPA 70E “Standard
C. Breaker 3 will restrain. It does not see the fault current and for Electrical Safety in the Workplace” and NFPA 70B
the absence of a restraint signal from it allows Breaker 2 to trip “Recommended Practice for Electrical Equipment Maintenance,”
the views and opinions expressed in this message are purely
instantaneously. the author’s and shall not be considered an official position of
the NFPA or any of its technical committees and shall not be
considered to be, nor be relied upon as, a formal interpretation
or promotion of the NFPA. Readers are encouraged to refer to the
entire text of all referenced documents.

120 U WINTER 2013 TECH QUIZ

TECH QUIZ

No. 105
James R. (Jim) White
is the Training Director
of Shermco Industries,
FIELD TESTING TECHNIQUES FOR
Inc., in Dallas, Texas.
He is the principal
member on the NFPA
LOW-VOLTAGE CIRCUIT BREAKERS
B Y JI M W H I TE , Shermco Industries
technical committee
“Recommended Practice Low-voltage circuit breaker testing technology is moving forward, albeit at a relaxed
for Electrical Equipment
Maintenance” (NFPA
pace, it seems. Field testing can include a number of different test methods and types
70B). Jim represents of test equipment. Your task, if you choose to accept it, will be to successfully answer
NETA as an alternate the Tech Quiz questions this issue. As always, choose the most correct answer.
member of the NFPA
Technical Committee
“Electrical Safety 1. Figure 1 shows a jumper cable used to:
in the Workplace” a. defeat the zone selective interlocking
(NFPA 70E) and function.
represents NETA
on the ASTM F18
b. increase the bias current through
Committee “Electrical the programmer.
Protective Equipment c. change the phase angle of the primary
For Workers”. Jim is an injection current.
IEEE Senior Member d. defeat the ground fault function.
and in 2011 received the
IEEE/PCIC Electrical 2. When the thermal memory is switched on
Safety Excellence
for digital overcurrent protective devices
award. Jim is a past
Chairman (2008) of the (OCPDs) used on low-voltage circuit breakers,
IEEE Electrical Safety what effect will it have on the long time delay
Workshop (ESW). (LTD) operating time?
a. It has no effect on LTD.
b. It will decrease LTD somewhat. Figure 1: Low-Voltage Circuit Breaker
c. It will increase LTD somewhat. Testing Scheme
d. It will cause the trip unit to operate on the
instantaneous element.
4. What type of light source can be used to field
3. When performing primary injection testing of a
circuit breaker that has zone selective interlocking, test arc-flash detection relays?
current is injected into individual phases on the a. Compact point-and-shoot camera flash
b. 200W light bulb or LED
See answers on page 122.

tested breaker. What should be the result?

a. The breaker should trip by its short-time c. Professional-style flash
delay (STD) function. d. Lighting a book of matches all at once
b. The breaker should trip instantaneously 5. The light source used to field test arc-flash
and send blocking signals from its ZSI detection relays generally needs to have an
OUT terminals. output duration of ____ ms, or more.
c. The breaker should trip and send a text a. 1
saying it has operated. b. 2
d. The breaker should set an alarm and, if the c. 3
current continues, trip after a set time delay. d. 4
14 • SPRING 2014 TECH QUIZ
 TECH QUIZ ANSWERS

No. 105
A N S W E R S

A NS W ERS
1. D. Figure 1 shows a test connection designed to defeat the 3. B. Zone Selective Interlocking should cause the breaker
trip unit ground fault (GF) function by injecting current in that is supposed to trip change from a STD function to
one phase and out in the opposite direction through a second an Instantaneous one, while it also sends a blocking signal
phase. This causes the GF element to see a net current of to upstream breakers. If it does not trip, the next breaker
zero. There are various methods to defeat GF, depending on upstream will operate.
manufacturer, model and generation of the OCPD. Older
GF elements were often defeated by placing a jumper between 4. C. Some manufacturers have a field test module that
two terminals on the trip unit. Later, a cable was needed to synchronizes a burst of light with an overcurrent that is
defeat the GF element. Some manufacturers required using a injected into the overcurrent control relay. Even in those field
secondary injection test set. A better way to defeat GF during test modules, it is necessary to supply the light source, which is
primary injection is similar to that in Figure 1, except that the recommended to be a professional style camera flash. Point-
return is through the two other poles in parallel. The reason to and-shoot cameras apparently do not have the intensity to
go through the extra work is to cause test current in other poles trigger the light detector.
to be substantially lower than the one being tested.
5. A. One of the characteristics listed in several of the
I might be jaded, but I see a trend of increasing costs for no
additional benefit. The loop method will defeat the GF on manufacturer’s test specifications for the light source is that it
any circuit breaker OCPD. Bus bar may be required instead must have a minimum duration of 1ms.
of cable.

2. B. Thermal memory in modern circuit breaker trip units

provides a tripping characteristic similar to bimetallic thermal
trips. The bimetal element in a molded-case circuit breaker
inherently has thermal memory. This characteristic allows the
bimetal element to respond to current on the same basis that
the conductor will be heated by the current. As the current
passes through the bimetal element, it will begin to deflect,
based on the value of the current. If the current drops (such
as in a motor starting) the bimetal will slow, then reset to NFPA Disclaimer: Although Jim White is a member of
an appropriate level for the current. If the current stays at the NFPA Technical Committee for both NFPA 70E “Standard
that higher level, it may stop or, if the current magnitude is for Electrical Safety in the Workplace” and NFPA 70B
high enough, continue to deflect until it trips the breaker. “Recommended Practice for Electrical Equipment Maintenance,”
the views and opinions expressed in this message are purely
Older solid-state OCPDs did not incorporate any method the author’s and shall not be considered an official position of
to mimic this characteristic and would not trip for load the NFPA or any of its technical committees and shall not be
fluctuations above and below the trip point, because they considered to be, nor be relied upon as, a formal interpretation
would instantaneously reset when the current dropped below or promotion of the NFPA. Readers are encouraged to refer to the
entire text of all referenced documents.
the trip level.

122 • SPRING 2014 TECH QUIZ

TECH QUIZ

No. 106

ROTATING MACHINERY
James R. (Jim) White
is the Training Director
of Shermco Industries,
Inc., in Dallas, Texas.
He is the principal
member on the NFPA
AND PROTECTION
B Y JI M W H I TE , Shermco Industries
technical committee
“Recommended Practice
for Electrical Equipment 3. Digital motor protection relays contain
Maintenance” (NFPA
Low-voltage circuit breaker testing
70B). Jim represents technology is moving forward, albeit at several functions that mimic older
NETA as an alternate a relaxed pace, it seems. Field testing electromechanical protective relays.
member of the NFPA can include a number of different test Which function uses thermal damage
Technical Committee characteristics (I2t) for motor protection?
“Electrical Safety methods and types of test equipment.
Your task, if you choose to accept it, will a. Thermal replica
in the Workplace”
b. Locked rotor
(NFPA 70E) and be to successfully answer the Tech Quiz
represents NETA c. Overcurrent
on the ASTM F18
questions this issue. As always, choose d. All the above
Committee “Electrical the most correct answer. e. None of the above
Protective Equipment 1. With electromechanical relay motor
For Workers”. Jim is an 4. Which of the following functions do not use
protection, what two types of relays were not
IEEE Senior Member the thermal damage characteristics?
and in 2011 received the provided for induction motor protection?
IEEE/PCIC Electrical a. Overcurrent and undervoltage a. Overcurrent (50/51)
Safety Excellence b. Differential and overvoltage b. Current Unbalance (46)
award. Jim is a past c. Current balance and thermal replica c. Differential (87)
Chairman (2008) of the d. Number of Starts Per Time Period (66)
IEEE Electrical Safety
d. Loss-of-field and sync-check
Workshop (ESW).
e. Time Between Starts
2. The biggest enemy to insulating systems is
heat. Current magnitude during most of 5. During normal operation of a motor, when is a
the starting acceleration time is very close locked rotor condition produced?
to locked-rotor current. What is the typical a. During starting
current range for locked-rotor current of b. If a phase is dropped to the motor
a large induction motor? c. If the gearbox or coupling is misaligned
a. 2 to 4 times rated current d. If there is a short circuit in the motor
windings
See answers on page 122.

b. 4 to 6 times rated current

c. 6 to 8 times rated current e. When more than rated voltage is applied
d. 8 to 10 times rated current to the motor
e. 10 to 12 times rated current

14 • SUMMER 2014 TECH QUIZ

 TECH QUIZ ANSWERS

No. 106
A N S W E R S

A NS W ERS
1. Since induction motors were specified, loss-of-field and
sync-check would not be useful. The correct answer is d.

2. The best answer in this grouping is c. Many large induction

motors will draw 6 to 8 times their full-load current during
locked rotor conditions.

3. D is probably the best answer, but modern microprocessor

relays generally have start limitations, thermal algorithms
more sophisticated than simple thermal memory, RTDs that
provide temperature limits as well as biasing of the thermal
algorithm, negative sequence current calculations that alter
the overload point, and other protection functions. The I2t
(thermal) characteristic applies to almost any current-based
protective relay. Figure 1 shows a typical thermal damage/
limit characteristic curve. Any time-current that exceeds the
thermal damage characteristic will cause some thermal damage.
Figure 1: Thermal Damage Characteristic
This damage is cumulative and will add to any previous thermal
Courtesy Omron Industrial Automation
degradation. Eventually the insulation becomes brittle and will
fail due to electrical or mechanical forces.

4. The correct answer for this question is c. All the other

protective functions are preventing the motor temperature
from exceeding either the rotor thermal limit or the stator NFPA Disclaimer: Although Jim White is a member of
the NFPA Technical Committee for both NFPA 70E “Standard
thermal limit. for Electrical Safety in the Workplace” and NFPA 70B
“Recommended Practice for Electrical Equipment Maintenance,”
the views and opinions expressed in this message are purely
5. Locked-rotor current is the current that flows in a motor the author’s and shall not be considered an official position of
when rated voltage is applied to the motor when the rotor the NFPA or any of its technical committees and shall not be
is at a standstill. As it turns out, nearly that same current considered to be, nor be relied upon as, a formal interpretation
or promotion of the NFPA. Readers are encouraged to refer to the
occurs through most of the motor’s acceleration period. The entire text of all referenced documents.
correct answer is a.

122 • SUMMER 2014 TECH QUIZ

TECH QUIZ

No. 107

MEDIUM-VOLTAGE
James R. (Jim) White
is the Training Director
of Shermco Industries,
Inc., in Dallas, Texas.
He is the principal
member on the NFPA
CIRCUIT BREAKERS
BY JIM WHITE, Shermco Industries
technical committee
“Recommended Practice Medium-voltage circuit breakers can cover multiple types of arc-extinguishing
for Electrical Equipment
Maintenance” (NFPA methods. If they misoperate, they can be extremely hazardous due to their higher
70B). Jim represents voltages. Some new technologies have been introduced that can help detect problems
NETA as an alternate and help ensure safe operation. As with low-voltage circuit breakers, medium-voltage
member of the NFPA
Technical Committee
circuit breakers require maintenance and testing to prevent accidents.
“Electrical Safety
in the Workplace” 1. The vacuum bottle Integrity test provides an 4. To what does anti-pump refer?
(NFPA 70E) and indication of: a. The ability of a circuit breaker to
represents NETA a. remaining life of a vacuum bottle withstand the available short circuit
on the ASTM F18 b. how many short circuits the vacuum current
Committee “Electrical
Protective Equipment
bottle can handle b. The circuit breaker can only be closed
For Workers”. Jim is an c. the vacuum pressure inside a vacuum once for an operation of the control
IEEE Senior Member bottle switch to the close position
and in 2011 received the d. the current state of the vacuum bottle c. The method the circuit breaker operating
IEEE/PCIC Electrical
mechanism operates
Safety Excellence
award. Jim is a past d. A test to measure the velocity and
2. The term medium voltage typically refers to
Chairman (2008) of the displacement of a circuit breaker
IEEE Electrical Safety
what voltage range?
Workshop (ESW). a. 1,000 V to 100,000 V
b. 1,000 V to 34,500 V 5. What is the recommended level of PPE from
c. 1,000 V to 25,000 V NFPA 70E Table 130.7(C)(15)(a) for racking
d. 1,000 V to 15,000 V a circuit breaker in or out of its cubicle?
a. HRC 1
b. HRC 2
3. Medium-voltage circuit breakers are usually
c. HRC 3
identified by their arc interruption method. List
d. HRC 4
five of those common interrupting methods:
See answers on page 108.

a. _____________________________
b. _____________________________
c. _____________________________
d. _____________________________
e. _____________________________

14 • FALL 2014 TECH QUIZ

 TECH QUIZ ANSWERS

No. 107
A N S W E R S

ANSWERS
1. d. Vacuum bottle integrity tests can only show that the
vacuum bottle has sufficient vacuum to prevent arcing across
the open contacts at a specified voltage. The Magnetron
atmospheric condition test, which is new on the market,
provides an indication of remaining interrupter life.

2. a. Although IEEE standards use 1,000 V to 100,000 V, the

nominal voltages for medium-voltage equipment is usually
2,300 V to 69,000 V.

3. a. Oil
b. Gas or SF6
c. Air or air magnetic
d. Vacuum
e. Air blast (these have been mostly replaced with gas
circuit breakers)

4. b. The anti-pump circuit is often referred to as the “X-Y

scheme”. An anti-pump scheme is important for circuit
breakers because it prevents the circuit breaker from
repeatedly reclosing into a fault. A set of contacts from the
anti-pump relay seals in the anti-pump coil causing it to
remain energized as long as the close command continues. NFPA Disclaimer: Although Jim White is a member of
the NFPA Technical Committee for both NFPA 70E “Standard
Another contact from the anti-pump relay interrupts the for Electrical Safety in the Workplace” and NFPA 70B
closing coil circuit. This prevents a reclose until the close “Recommended Practice for Electrical Equipment Maintenance,”
command is released and the anti-pump relay drops out. the views and opinions expressed in this message are purely
the author’s and shall not be considered an official position of
the NFPA or any of its technical committees and shall not be
5. d. Whether it is a low-voltage or medium-voltage circuit considered to be, nor be relied upon as, a formal interpretation
breaker, HRC 4 is always required when inserting or or promotion of the NFPA. Readers are encouraged to refer to the
entire text of all referenced documents.
removing (racking) a circuit breaker.

108 • FALL 2014 TECH QUIZ

TECH QUIZ

No. 108

NFPA 70E
James R. (Jim) White
is the Training Director
of Shermco Industries,
Inc., in Dallas, Texas. BY JIM WHITE, Shermco Industries
He is the principal
member on the NFPA With this NETAWorld Journal’s focus on NFPA 70E, it’s only appropriate to
technical committee have the Tech Quiz look at some of the finer points of it. I hope everyone scores
“Recommended Practice 100% on this one.
for Electrical Equipment
Maintenance” (NFPA 1. In order to be considered a qualified worker, list 4. State the Limited and Restricted Approach
70B). Jim represents
five demonstrated skills or knowledge required: Boundaries for the following voltages:
NETA as an alternate
member of the NFPA a. ______________________________ a. 208 V
Technical Committee b. ______________________________ Limited ___________
“Electrical Safety c. ______________________________ Restricted ___________
in the Workplace” d. ______________________________ b. 480 V
(NFPA 70E) and
represents NETA
e. ______________________________ Limited ___________
on the ASTM F18 Restricted ___________
Committee “Electrical c. 4.16 kV
Protective Equipment 2. How often does the 70E require retraining for
Limited ___________
For Workers”. Jim is an qualified persons?
Restricted ___________
IEEE Senior Member a. Every year
and in 2011 received the d. 13.8 kV
b. Every 2 years
IEEE/PCIC Electrical Limited ___________
c. Every 3 years
Safety Excellence Restricted ___________
award. Jim is a past d. Every 4 years
d. 25 kV
Chairman (2008) of the e. Every 5 years
IEEE Electrical Safety
Limited ___________
Workshop (ESW). Restricted ___________
3. Using the given information, determine the
approximate short circuit current available at
5. When can an unqualified person enter the
a transformer’s secondary:
Limited Approach Space?
Voltages: 13.8 kV to 277Y/480 V
a. When continuously escorted
Impedance: 5%
b. When performing minor
kVA: 2,500
housekeeping duties
See answers on page 118.

c. They are never allowed within the

a. 60,000 A
Limited Approach Space
b. 54,500 A
d. When monitored by the site electrical
c. 42,000 A
safety compliance manager
d. 37,500 A
e. After the proper JSA and energized
e. 25,000 A
electrical work permits have been
completed

14 • WINTER 2014 TECH QUIZ

 TECH QUIZ ANSWERS

No. 108
A N S W E R S
ANSWERS
1. To be a qualified worker (having the skills and knowledge A simple way to determine the full-load current of a 480 V
required to work on or near energized electrical conductors transformer is that for every 500 kVA of transformer size, there is
and circuit parts) is not a simple thing. Many workers approximately 600 A of full-load current. Our example 2,500 kVA
believe that they are qualified if they have the technical transformer would then have about 3,000 A capacity. The percent
skills needed for the job. That is only half right. OSHA and impedance of the transformer is divided by 100 to make it an
70E require a level of electrical safety knowledge and skill, actual impedance, so 5% becomes 0.05. Plugging the numbers in:
as well. Without those, a person is unqualified. Reference
NFPA 70E Section 110.2(D)(1). 2,500 kVA = 60,000 A short-circuit available current
at the secondary.
a. Skills and techniques to determine energized parts from 5%
deenergized parts 100
b. Skills and techniques to determine the nominal voltage
c. Skills and techniques to determine the minimum safe 4. This is another piece of knowledge every field service technician
approach distances to energized should know. The approach distances for the following voltages:
conductors and circuit parts a. 208 V
d. Correct use of precautionary techniques Limited – 42” (3’ 6”) Restricted - Avoid contact
e. Correct use of PPE, including arc flash suit b. 277Y/4890 V
f. Correct use of insulating and shielding materials Limited – 42” (3’ 6”) Restricted -12” (1’)
g. Correct use of insulated and insulating tools c. 4.16 kV
h. Ability to determine the degree and extent of the hazard Limited – 60” (5’) Restricted - 26” (2’ 2”)
and be able to plan the job safely d. 13.8 kV
Limited – 60” (5’) Restricted – 26” (2’ 2”)
2. c. Retraining is required every three years. Note that e. 25 kV
retraining is required, not just refresher training. Refresher Limited – 72” (6’) Restricted – 31” (2’ 7”)
training can take place at shorter intervals (and should), but
the intent of this section was to have people receive training 5. a. By definition an unqualified person cannot determine the
that would cover the changes in NFPA 70E and any changes hazards or be able to avoid them. The only time an unqualified
to procedures or their electrical safety program that needed person can be in the Limited Space (the space between the
to be communicated. Reference Section 110.2(D)(3). Limited and Restricted Approach Boundaries) is if they are
continuously escorted. Continuously is the key word. If
3. a. Everyone should be able to perform this calculation. their escort leaves the Limited Space, the unqualified person
Sometimes accurate information is just not available and the must also leave it. An unqualified person can not cross the
nearest upstream transformer has to be used to determine the Restricted Approach Boundary under any circumstances.
available short circuit current. It is a conservative method,
but that is not a bad thing in this case. The equation is: NFPA Disclaimer: Although Jim White is a member of the NFPA
Technical Committee for both NFPA 70E “Standard for Electrical Safety
in the Workplace” and NFPA 70B “Recommended Practice for Electrical
Transformer Full-Load Current = Short-Circuit Current Equipment Maintenance,” the views and opinions expressed in this message
are purely the author’s and shall not be considered an official position of the
Transformer % Impedance NFPA or any of its technical committees and shall not be considered to be,
100 nor be relied upon as, a formal interpretation or promotion of the NFPA.
Readers are encouraged to refer to the entire text of all referenced documents.

118 • WINTER 2014 TECH QUIZ

TECH QUIZ

No. 109

COMMISSIONING
James R. (Jim) White
is the Training Director
of Shermco Industries,
Inc., in Dallas, Texas. B Y JI M W H I TE , Shermco Industries
He is the principal
member on the NFPA Commissioning involves many aspects of testing and operability verification.
technical committee Commissioning ensures the electrical power system and all connected devices will
“Recommended Practice function in the way it was designed.
for Electrical Equipment
Maintenance” (NFPA 1. One aspect of commissioning is acceptance 4. When energizing a substation after
70B). Jim represents
testing. List three primary purposes of commissioning, what is one of the most
NETA as an alternate
member of the NFPA commissioning (wording does not have to important safety steps that should be taken?
Technical Committee be exact): a. Restrict access to only those directly
“Electrical Safety a. ______________________________ involved in the energization process
in the Workplace” b. ______________________________ b. Make sure all the test equipment has been
(NFPA 70E) and
represents NETA
c. ______________________________ properly calibrated within the last year
on the ASTM F18 c. Verify that all employees have a current
Committee “Electrical electrical safety orientation sticker
Protective Equipment 2. Before acceptance testing begins, what
d. Move everyone back from the substation
For Workers”. Jim is an steps should be taken as part of the
a minimum of 100 feet from the area
IEEE Senior Member commissioning process?
and in 2011 received the a. Inspect devices for proper settings
IEEE/PCIC Electrical
and installation completeness 5. There are several steps that should be taken
Safety Excellence
award. Jim is a past b. Perform a seismic drop test on each after energization. Which one of the following
Chairman (2008) of the device to be installed would not be one of those?
IEEE Electrical Safety c. Inspect devices for variations from a. Remove personal protective grounds
Workshop (ESW). design specifications b. Obtain post-energization oil and gas
d. Both b and c analysis on applicable devices
e. Both a and c c. Verify temperature monitoring and
protective devices are set up to established
criteria and parameters
3. The series of checks that verify all parts of a
d. Perform thermographic survey of
system are working together is known as:
equipment
a. End-to-end testing
See answers on page 126.

b. Acceptance testing
c. Maintenance testing
d. System functional testing
e. “Ringing out” the wires

14 • SPRING 2015 TECH QUIZ

 TECH QUIZ ANSWERS

No. 109
A N S W E R S
A NS W ERS
1. a. To verify proper functioning of the equipment/system 3. d. Once the components and devices are installed, they
after installation must be functionally tested to ensure they will operate as
b. To verify the installed equipment meets design and a system. The name may change somewhat from region to
manufacturer’s specifications region, but the idea is to test the system for functionality.
c. To capture and record performance data of the installation
as the baseline for future operation and maintenance 4. Personally, I’d vote for answer d, but answer a is the correct
answer. The larger the number of people present, the
2. e. The seismic drop test is dropping a component from greater the chance for things to go wrong. Limiting access
a 3 foot height and then sweeping the pieces up. Not also limits the number of people who might be injured if
something should go wrong.
recommended for NETA test companies. Answer e is the
most correct answer. Both of these (a and c) go to the
heart of the commissioning process; verify settings against 5. a. It would really be a good plan to remove personal protective
specifications and inspect devices for deviations from grounds prior to energizing. The other items may be included
specifications. It’s amazing (maybe not once you’ve been post-energiziation.
in the field for a while) how often the wrong part or device
gets shipped, and no one seems to catch it until the drop
dead date.

NFPA Disclaimer: Although Jim White is a member of the NFPA

Technical Committee for both NFPA 70E “Standard for Electrical Safety
in the Workplace” and NFPA 70B “Recommended Practice for Electrical
Equipment Maintenance,” the views and opinions expressed in this message
are purely the author’s and shall not be considered an official position of the
NFPA or any of its technical committees and shall not be considered to be,
nor be relied upon as, a formal interpretation or promotion of the NFPA.
Readers are encouraged to refer to the entire text of all referenced documents.

126 • SPRING 2015 TECH QUIZ

TECH QUIZ

--- N o 110. ---

fames R. (Jim) White

is the Training Director
ojShermco Industries,
HIGH-VOLTAGE SUBSTATIONS
Inc., in Dallas, Texas. BY JIM WHITE, Shermco Industries
He is theprincipal
member on the NFPA This month we will have some questions related to high-voltage substations.
technical committee Put on your thinking cap and see how well you can do.
''Recommended Practice
for Electrical Equipment
Maintenance" (NFPA 1. Mediwn-voltage is defined as: 4. There is one optional test given for micro­
70B). Jim represents
a. > 1,000 V to 35,000 V processor protective relays in Section 7.9.2 of
NETA as an alternate
member ofthe NFPA b. 2,400 v to 69,000 v ANSI/NETA MTS. What is it?
Technical Committee c. > 1,000 V to 100,000 V a. Insulation resistance ofeach circuit to
"Electrical Saftty d. None of the above ground
in the Workplace" b. Functional operation ofeach element
(NFPA 70E)and
c. Apply voltage or current to analog inputs
represents NETA
on the ASTM FIB 2. What are four classes oflightning arresters? d. Control verification
Committee "Electrical a.
Protective Equipment b. --
---
For Workers': Jim is an
c.
IEEE Senior Member
and in 2011 received the d. _______________________

IEEE/PCIC Electrical
Saftty Excellence
award. Jim is a past 3. ANSI/NETA MTS specifies a maximum of
Chairman (2008) ojthe __ ppm moisture for in-service SF6 gas.
IEEE Electrical Saftty
Workshop (ESW). a. 40
b. 70
c. 110
d. 200

14 • SUMMER 2015 TECH QUIZ

 TECH QUIZ ANSWERS

--- No. 110 ---

ANSWERS

ANSWERS
1. Take your pick (except for answer d). It seems what is 3. d. In-service SF6 gas should have no more than 200 ppm
medium-voltage depends on which standard you read (and moisture using a hygrometer ( reference ANSI/NETA
even how you interpret a given standard). IEEE gives> 1,000 MT S Table 100.13). New SF6 gas should have no more
V to 35,000 V in one standard, then> 1,000 V to 100,000 V than 71 PPMv ( parts per million by volume) moisture or
in another. NETA uses> 1,000 V to 100,000 V, while ANSI about 8.76 PPMw ( parts per million by weight). PPMw
C84 gives 2,400 V to 69,000 V. So what's the right answer­ =PPMv /8.1. ( Reference IEEE Guidefor Moisture
well the NETA Standards of course! (answer c). Measurement and Control in SF6 Gas-Insulated Equipment
-IEEE Standard 1125). E ach manufacturer sets the
allowable moisture limits for their equipment, which can
2. a. Secondary Class. For low-voltage systems. These provide some
vary considerably.
protection to homes and businesses from lightning strikes.
b. Distribution Class. Lowest cost and least durable of
4. b. Functional operation. This test is used to verify that
power equipment surge protection devices. Otten found
the protection elements of the relay are correctly set and
on transformers rated 1,000 kVA or less. Not available for
working as intended.
equipment rated higher than 1,000 kVA.
c. Intermediate Class. Designed primarily for medium­
voltage applications ( see question 1, above, to be confused).
Application includes utility substations, transformers,
and other equipment that merits better than distribution­
class protection
d. Station Class. Most expensive and durable surge arresters
( and physically largest). Used for high-voltage substations
and transformers. Also used on medium-voltage equipment,
that due to application or importance/cost, require the
highest level of protection.

Lightning or surge arresters typically divert the lightning

strike or overvoltage-to-ground to prevent the equipment
from being damaged.

NFPA Disclaimer: Although jim White is a member ofthe NFPA

Technical Committee for both NFPA 70E "Standard for Electrical Saftty
in the Workpl4ce" and NFPA lOB "Recommended Practicefor Electrical
Equipment Maintenance, "the views and opinions expressed in this message
are purely the authors and shall not be considered an official position ofthe
NFPA or any ofits technical committees and shall not be considered to be,
nor be relied upon as, a formal interpretation or promotion ofthe NFPA.
Readers are encouraged to refer to the entire text ofall referenced documents.

124 • SUMMER 2015 TECH QUIZ

TECH QUIZ

No. 111

James R. (Jim) White

is the Training Director
of Shermco Industries,
BATTERIES AND BATTERY CHARGERS
Inc., in Dallas, Texas. BY JIM WHITE, Shermco Industries
He is the principal
member on the NFPA Batteries and their supporting charging equipment can easily be overlooked —
technical committee until they’re needed. Many facilities use a battery bank to supply dc operating current
“Recommended Practice for opening and closing circuit breakers, spring-charging motors, and indicators.
for Electrical Equipment
Maintenance” (NFPA Without the dc supply available, circuit breakers will not operate.
70B). Jim represents
NETA as an alternate 1. One indication that a vented lead-acid battery 4. When performing a load test on a battery
member of the NFPA
Technical Committee is in trouble is when its internal impedance bank, what percent remaining capacity
“Electrical Safety increases ___ percent above its indicates the need to replace the batteries?
in the Workplace” as-installed impedance. a. 20 percent
(NFPA 70E) and a. 5 percent b. 40 percent
represents NETA
on the ASTM F18
b. 20 percent c. 60 percent
Committee “Electrical c. 30 percent d. 80 percent
Protective Equipment d. 45 percent
For Workers”. Jim is an
IEEE Senior Member 5. The only repair for sulfation is to:
and in 2011 received the 2. Which of the following is not an example a. Equalize and increase float voltage
IEEE/PCIC Electrical of a valve-regulated lead-acid (VRLA) battery? b. Use a mixture of boric acid and
Safety Excellence
a. Nickel-Metal Hydride potassium hydroxide
award. Jim is a past
Chairman (2008) of the b. Gel cell c. Replace the batteries with new ones
IEEE Electrical Safety c. Absorbed glass mat d. Retighten all intercell connections
Workshop (ESW). d. Maintenance free

3. Sulfation in flooded-cell lead-acid batteries is

indicated by:
a. Streaks of oil on the surface of
the electrolyte
b. Brownish nodules adhering to the case
See answers on page 122.

c. White salts appearing on the surface of

the plates
d. White milky substance that appears on
the cells and jar

14 • FALL 2015 TECH QUIZ

 TECH QUIZ ANSWERS

No. 111
A N S W E R S
ANSWERS
1. b. When the internal impedance of a cell increases by 4. d. When battery capacity decreases to 80 percent of its
more than 20 percent, it is an indication that the battery is initial rating, replacement is needed. It probably won’t last
starting to deteriorate and should be monitored more a year without problems.
closely. This test is often referred to as the ohmic test and
is performed by applying an ac voltage across the battery 5. a. Since sulfation occurs when a battery is in a discharged
and measuring the internal impedance of the battery. state, equalizing is the cure. The problem is that all of the
sulfates usually don’t recombine, and the battery loses some
2. a. Increasingly, VRLA batteries are used for various capacity. This is a normal part of the charge/discharge cycle;
stand-by electrical power applications, including emergency but when a battery stays in a low state of charge, sulfation
generators and switchgear. The most common types of can be permanent. Battery shedding will also increase, as the
VRLA batteries are gel cells and absorbed glass mat. discharged electrolyte now contains more water and will soften
These batteries are often referred to as “maintenance free,” the lead plate material. If that shedded material builds up about
although “low maintenance” would better describe them. half-way to the plates, a constant discharge begins between
the shedded material and the plates, resulting in a battery that
won’t maintain a charge.
3. c. Sulfation results from the battery being in an under-
charged state for an extended time. As the battery
discharges, the active lead material on the plates will react
with the sulfates in the electrolyte and form a lead sulfate
on the plates. This appears as a white, granular deposit on
the plates.

NFPA Disclaimer: Although Jim White is a member of the NFPA

Technical Committee for both NFPA 70E “Standard for Electrical Safety
in the Workplace” and NFPA 70B “Recommended Practice for Electrical
Equipment Maintenance,” the views and opinions expressed in this message
are purely the author’s and shall not be considered an official position of the
NFPA or any of its technical committees and shall not be considered to be,
nor be relied upon as, a formal interpretation or promotion of the NFPA.
Readers are encouraged to refer to the entire text of all referenced documents.

122 • FALL 2015 TECH QUIZ

TECH QUIZ

No. 112

James R. (Jim) White

is the Training Director
of Shermco Industries,
POWER TRANSFORMERS
Inc., in Dallas, Texas. B Y JI M W H I TE , Shermco Industries
He is the principal
member on the NFPA Power transformers have no moving parts (except for accessories such as fans, pumps,
technical committee or LTCs), and yet, they are very complex electrical devices. This month’s Tech Quiz asks
“Recommended Practice questions on general power transformer knowledge — some from the MTS, some not.
for Electrical Equipment
Maintenance” (NFPA Let’s see how you do:
70B). Jim represents
NETA as an alternate 1. Power transformer cooling designations 4. What type of sensing element can measure
member of the NFPA
Technical Committee underwent changes a few years ago. Match up a transformer’s hottest-spot (winding)
“Electrical Safety the old designation with the new: temperature directly?
in the Workplace” a. FA ONAF/ODAF a. Fiber optic cable
(NFPA 70E) and b. FOA ONAN b. Thermocouples
represents NETA
on the ASTM F18
c. OA/FOA ODAF or OFAF c. Platinum RTDs
Committee “Electrical d. OA ONAF d. Oil well monitor
Protective Equipment
For Workers”. Jim is an
IEEE Senior Member 2. Buchholz relays are used on transformers 5. Hydrogen is often the primary gas used
and in 2011 received the to detect: for field monitoring of combustible gases.
IEEE/PCIC Electrical a. Winding over temperature Check all the answers that apply:
Safety Excellence
b. Over pressure of tank a. Hydrogen is the smallest molecule,
award. Jim is a past
Chairman (2008) of the c. Change in oil temperature so it passes through membranes when
IEEE Electrical Safety d. Internal faults others won’t.
Workshop (ESW). b. Hydrogen can be tinted to make it
more visible, allowing easier detection
3. Sudden pressure relays operate on a:
by optical sensors.
a. Rapid increase in main tank
c. Hydrogen is always present when
b. Pressure set point in lbs/in2
combustible gases are generated.
c. Difference in pressure between main tank
d. Hydrogen has a distinct odor, allowing
and tap changer tank
the use of olfactory detectors.
d. Rapid increase in conservator pressure
See answers on page 128.

28 • WINTER 2015 TECH QUIZ

 TECH QUIZ ANSWERS

No. 112
A N S W E R S
A NS W ERS
1. a. OA ONAN (self-cooled) the workers installing the nitrogen bottles were using their
b. FA ONAF (forced-air/air-cooled) — two stages feet to push the bottle into its cabinet. The bottle would hit
of cooling would be ONAN/ONAF/ONAF. the back of the tank, causing a false trip.
c. FOA ODAF or OFAF (forced-air/air-cooled) —
these transformers have no self-cooled rating 4. a. Only a fiber optic cable can be used to directly measure
and must run their pumps. the hottest-spot temperature. The hot-spot temperature is
d. OA/FOA ONAN/ODAF (self-cooled, with one stage (theoretically) two-thirds up and one-third into the high-
of directed-oil pumping, with fans). voltage winding. Any metallic object or sensor would cause
a short circuit between windings or turns. Don’t expect
2. a. Buchholz relays are used with conservator tank to see many fiber optic hot-spot temperature detectors in
transformers and detect internal faults by responding to the field. Most will be the type where oil in a separate well
combustible gas generation directly or by abnormal oil flows is heated by an auxiliary CT and heating element. This is
created by rapid gas generation. calibrated to approximate the hot-spot temperature.

5. a and c. Hydrogen is so small that some types of hydrogen

3. a. Sudden pressure relays won’t operate on a gradual increase
detection systems use a membrane that only allows it to pass
in main tank pressure; instead, they will operate on a rapid
through, while excluding other gases. Hydrogen is always
increase in pressure. This is often due to arcing under the oil,
present when combustible gases are created, so it is a reliable
but sometimes can be caused by other events. For example, method of combustible gas detection.
a utility once experienced false tripping on one of its
transformers with a sudden pressure relay. They found that

NFPA Disclaimer: Although Jim White is a member of the NFPA

Technical Committee for both NFPA 70E “Standard for Electrical Safety
in the Workplace” and NFPA 70B “Recommended Practice for Electrical
Equipment Maintenance,” the views and opinions expressed in this message
are purely the author’s and shall not be considered an official position of the
NFPA or any of its technical committees and shall not be considered to be,
nor be relied upon as, a formal interpretation or promotion of the NFPA.
Readers are encouraged to refer to the entire text of all referenced documents.

128 • WINTER 2015 TECH QUIZ

TECH QUIZ

No. 113

James R. (Jim) White

is the Training Director
of Shermco Industries,
GENERAL TESTING
Inc., in Dallas, Texas.
He is the principal
member on the NFPA
AND MAINTENANCE
B Y JI M W H I TE , Shermco Industries
technical committee
“Recommended Practice
for Electrical Equipment
Maintenance” (NFPA
This issue’s Tech Quiz will challenge your general testing and maintenance knowledge.
70B). Jim represents NETA Technicians need a good understanding of testing and test results interpretation.
NETA as an alternate Let’s see how you do.
member of the NFPA
Technical Committee 1. First-out timing is performed to ensure: 4. When performing a VLF (very low
“Electrical Safety
a. All phases of the circuit breaker open frequency) test for in-service cable, what is
in the Workplace”
(NFPA 70E) and within 25 milliseconds of each other. the recommended test voltage for 15 kV-class
represents NETA b. The circuit breaker that should trip power cable (per MTS-2015)?
on the ASTM F18 first will do so. This is also known as a. 7 kV rms
Committee “Electrical selective coordination. b. 10 kV rms
Protective Equipment
For Workers”. Jim is an c. The circuit breaker will rack out c. 16 kV rms
IEEE Senior Member smoothly and without hesitation. d. 23 kV rms
and in 2011 received the d. The circuit breaker will open within
IEEE/PCIC Electrical 5. What is the recommended minimum
specifications after being closed for
Safety Excellence insulation resistance test value for a 2,300 V
an extended period of time.
award. Jim is a past motor manufactured after 1970?
Chairman (2008) of the 2. Partial discharges are created by: a. 50 MΩ
IEEE Electrical Safety
Workshop (ESW).
a. Moisture that is trapped within b. 75 MΩ
the insulation c. 100 MΩ
b. Ionization of air pockets within d. 200 MΩ
the insulation e. 500 MΩ
c. Deep discounting at the Dollar
6. At what frequency is a VLF test performed?
General store
a. 0.1 Hz
d. Carbon deposits vibrating within
b. 0.2 Hz
the insulation
c. 0.5 Hz
See answers on page 118.

3. What is considered a typical percent power d. 1 kHz

factor for a new/in-service medium-voltage
7. What is the recommended moisture limit for
oil-filled power transformer?
in-service SF6 gas?
a. 0.5%/1.0%
a. ≤ 500 ppm
b. 1.0%/2.0%
b. ≤ 300 ppm
c. 0.5%/2.0%
c. ≤ 200 ppm
d. 1.0%/3.0%
d. ≤ 100 ppm

22 • SPRING 2016 TECH QUIZ

 TECH QUIZ ANSWERS

No. 113
A N S W E R S
A NS W ERS
1. d. Circuit breakers often sit for extended periods of time a screening test to show that here may be a problem.
without operating. As they sit, current is flowing through Further testing can make a final determination.
them, drying out their lubricants. When called on to
operate, maybe they will do so correctly or maybe they 4. c. 16 kV rms
won’t. The problem is that they will often work just fine
after a few operations, but what will they do on that very 5. c. 100 MΩ
first trip? That’s the one that really counts.
6. a. VLF testing is typically performed at 0.1 Hz. The
2. b. Voids and air pockets in insulation can have electrical advantage of this test is that it does not create treeing
discharges (ionization) when they are in high-voltage inside power cable insulation. The downside is it can cause
fields. This discharge can be measured and monitored, existing treeing to grow, possibly failing the cable under
either while the equipment is energized (for continuous test.
monitoring) or during specific tests.
7. c. Unless there is a different value provided by the
3. a. 0.5%/1%pf. Usually I look for 0.5% on a new manufacturer, ≤ 200 ppm is recommended.
transformer, per Doble recommendations, but there
are variations between specimens. Some transformers
can have higher percent power factors and be perfectly
fine. That is why the insulation power factor test is not
considered to be rigidly interpreted test. It is more of

NFPA Disclaimer: Although Jim White is a member of the NFPA

Technical Committee for both NFPA 70E “Standard for Electrical Safety
in the Workplace” and NFPA 70B “Recommended Practice for Electrical
Equipment Maintenance,” the views and opinions expressed in this message
are purely the author’s and shall not be considered an official position of the
NFPA or any of its technical committees and shall not be considered to be,
nor be relied upon as, a formal interpretation or promotion of the NFPA.
Readers are encouraged to refer to the entire text of all referenced documents.

118 • SPRING 2016 TECH QUIZ

TECH QUIZ

No. 114

James R. (Jim) White

is the Training Director
of Shermco Industries,
PROTECTIVE RELAYING FOR
Inc., in Dallas, Texas.
He is the principal
member on the NFPA
ELECTRICAL POWER SYSTEMS
B Y JI M W H I TE , Shermco Industries
technical committee
“Recommended Practice
for Electrical Equipment
Maintenance” (NFPA
This issue’s Tech Quiz looks at protective relaying for electrical power systems.
70B). Jim represents Testing protective relays is a huge part of the protection scheme, and, if not done
NETA as an alternate accurately, can cause false tripping or worse — a no-trip condition. Most protective
member of the NFPA relays today are digital and have eliminated many of the problem areas associated
Technical Committee
“Electrical Safety with electromechanical relays, but they still need to have the calibration and
in the Workplace” functions verified.
(NFPA 70E) and
represents NETA 1. Match the device number with the relay 3. What type of protective relay requires two
on the ASTM F18 function: voltages that can have their magnitudes and
Committee “Electrical a. 50 ____ 1. Differential phase angles varied from each other?
Protective Equipment
For Workers”. Jim is an b. 86 ____ 2. Undervoltage a. Undervoltage
IEEE Senior Member c. 87 ____ 3. Instantaneous overcurrent b. Overvoltage
and in 2011 received the d. 27 ____ 4. Lockout c. Percent differential
IEEE/PCIC Electrical e. 25 ____ 5. Directional overcurrent d. Synch check
Safety Excellence
award. Jim is a past
f. 67 ____ 6. Synch check e. Directional power
Chairman (2008) of the 2. A percentage differential relay with a 25 4. A type 21 protective relay would be a:
IEEE Electrical Safety
Workshop (ESW).
percent slope characteristic has 4.9 A in one a. Distance
restraint coil and 4.2 A in the other. b. ac reclosing
a. What is the calculated imbalance? c. Pilot wire
______ percent d. Ground detector
b. Will this relay operate with this imbalance? e. Excitation
Yes / No
c. Based on its characteristic, what is this relay
most likely protecting? ______ or ______
See answers on page 120.

22 • SUMMER 2016 tech quiz

 TECH QUIZ ANSWERS

No. 114
A N S W E R S
A NS W ERS
1. a. 50 3. Instantaneous overcurrent
b. 86 4. Lockout
c. 87 1. Differential
d. 27 2. Undervoltage
e. 25 6. Synch check
f. 67 5. Directional overcurrent

2. a. What is the calculated imbalance?

16.6 percent
b. Will this relay operate with this imbalance?
Yes / No Figure 1: Synch Check Relay Circle Characteristic
For this relay to operate, the percent slope characteristic
must be exceeded, which is not the case in this example.
The relay will restrain.
c. Based on its characteristic, what is this relay most likely
protecting? Transformer or generator

3. d. Synch check relays require two voltages. One voltage

is used as the nominal (rated) voltage and the other
voltage is varied. The characteristic in Figure 1 shows how
the two voltages are used to check the size of the circle.
For a relay rated at 120 V, one voltage is typically set to
120 V at zero degrees, while the second voltage is set to
120 V and the phase angle is varied to find its operating
angles. At the 60-degree circle setting (the largest of the
circles) and at 120 V, the relay will close its contacts at 60
degrees plus-or-minus the tolerance of the relay, which
is usually 10 percent. Note that 120 V is in the center of
the circle, and at zero-degree phase angle difference, the
relay contacts will flicker if the second voltage is increased Figure 2: Synch Check Timing Characteristic
to 480 V (with the first voltage at 120 V). The timing
test is performed by setting both voltages at zero-degree
phase angle. One voltage is usually set to 120 V (or rated
voltage), while the second voltage is set to zero V and the NFPA Disclaimer: Although Jim White is a member of the NFPA
relay timed (see Figure 2). Technical Committee for both NFPA 70E “Standard for Electrical Safety
in the Workplace” and NFPA 70B “Recommended Practice for Electrical
Equipment Maintenance,” the views and opinions expressed in this message
4. 
a . A type 21 relay is any type of distance relay, but not are purely the author’s and shall not be considered an official position of the
blocking or unblocking relays. NFPA or any of its technical committees and shall not be considered to be,
nor be relied upon as, a formal interpretation or promotion of the NFPA.
Readers are encouraged to refer to the entire text of all referenced documents.

118 • SUMMER 2016 tech quiz

TECH QUIZ

No. 115

James R. (Jim) White

is the Training Director
of Shermco Industries,
ELECTRICAL RISK ASSESSMENT
Inc., in Dallas, Texas. B Y JI M W H I TE , Shermco Industries
He is the principal
member on the NFPA NFPA 70E can be a useful resource for performing and understanding electrical risk
technical committee assessments. This month’s quiz mostly comes from the 70E, but also requires some
“Recommended Practice
for Electrical Equipment
problem-solving on your part.
Maintenance” (NFPA
70B). Jim represents 1. N
 FPA 70E Section 110.1(G) contains 4. In NFPA 70E Section 130.4, Shock Risk
NETA as an alternate
member of the NFPA Informational Note 2 specifying three items Assessment, if additional protective measures
Technical Committee that may be required in a risk assessment. are required, what should be identified (mark
“Electrical Safety What are they? all correct answers)?
in the Workplace” a.  PPE, equipment, and the experience of the a. The design of the electrical equipment,
(NFPA 70E) and
represents NETA
second person including its over-current protective device
on the ASTM F18 b. Training, equipment, and certification b.  The voltage to which personnel will be
Committee “Electrical c. Equipment, experience, and PPE exposed
Protective Equipment d. Training, PPE, and certification c.  The minimum arc rating of protective
For Workers”. Jim is an e. PPE, training, and experience equipment
IEEE Senior Member
and in 2011 received the d. Personal and other protective equipment
IEEE/PCIC Electrical required
2. W
 hat one step could a technician in
Safety Excellence e. The boundary requirements
award. Jim is a past the field take to reduce the possibility of

Chairman (2008) of the electrical accidents?
IEEE Electrical Safety a. Test for the absence of voltage 5. NFPA 70E provides __­­­­__________.
Workshop (ESW). b. Inspect the equipment carefully a. Electrical and mechanical safe work practices
c. Get the supervisor’s approval b. Industry-best safe work practices
d. Complete a safety checklist c. International safe work practices
d. Exceptional safe work practices
e. Minimum safe work practices
3. W
 ho does OSHA hold responsible for
performing a risk assessment?
a. The employee
See answers on page TK.

b. The site safety specialist

c. Anyone involved in the task(s)
d. The safety backup
e. The employer

22 • FALL 2016 tech quiz

 TECH QUIZ ANSWERS

No. 115
A N S W E R S
A NS W ERS
1. 
e. NFPA 70E specifies the requirements for a safety backup 5. e. This is a topic that comes up frequently at NFPA 70E
or standby person (second person). The electrical safety committee meetings. Some committee members believe
program should specify what PPE, training, and experience that the 70E should provide best safe work practices. As
that person should have. Informational Notes cannot NETA Board President Ron Widup once stated, if that were
contain requirements but are used to clarify and provide the case, the 70E could be boiled down into one sentence:
additional direction as to the committee’s thinking on a Turn it off !
subject. Even though Informational Note No. 2 says that
such information may be specified, this information should What the 70E really provides is the minimum acceptable
be considered whenever a safety backup is used. safe work practices, much as OSHA regulations do.
Employers and employees are expected to exceed
2. a. In all the electrical incidents I have seen over the years, these minimum requirements to protect their safety.
one step might have prevented 90 percent of these incidents. Unfortunately, many people take the 70E at face value and
If technicians would faithfully perform an absence-of- do not do what is needed to prevent themselves or others
voltage test — whether they think the circuit is energized from being injured.
or not — they could save themselves and their families a lot
of pain, suffering, and grief. It is the single most important
safety task to perform.

3. e. OSHA uses what is called a single point of responsibility.

That single point is the employer. OSHA will always hold
the employer responsible for their employees’ safety. Job
safety assessments, risk assessments, etc., are all required to
be completed by the employer. This may simplify OSHA’s
task of assessing responsibility, but the fact of the matter
is that the employee is the one who suffers from a mishap.
No employer can be everywhere a technician is about to
work, nor can that employer be at the site in front of the
equipment to assess risk. Only the technician preparing to
perform a task can make the final risk assessment. This is
especially true for NETA Field Service Technicians.
NFPA Disclaimer: Although Jim White is a member of the NFPA
4. a., d., and e. NFPA 70E Section 130.4 covers the shock Technical Committee for both NFPA 70E “Standard for Electrical Safety
hazard and risk assessment, while Section 130.5 covers in the Workplace” and NFPA 70B “Recommended Practice for Electrical
arc flash. Additional protective measures could include Equipment Maintenance,” the views and opinions expressed in this message
guarding the energized conductors or circuit parts, are purely the author’s and shall not be considered an official position of the
NFPA or any of its technical committees and shall not be considered to be,
setting up safety barrier tape, identification of look-alike nor be relied upon as, a formal interpretation or promotion of the NFPA.
equipment, or other measures as called out by NFPA 70E. Readers are encouraged to refer to the entire text of all referenced documents.

120 • FALL 2016 tech quiz