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 Exclusion of Liability
The reproduction, transmission or use of this document or its contents is We have checked the contents of this Manual to ensure that they coincide
not permitted without express written authority. with the described hardware and software. However, deviations cannot be
Offenders will be liable for damages. All rights, including rights created by completely ruled-out, so we cannot guarantee complete conformance.
patent grant or registration or a utility model or design, are reserved. However, the information in this document is regularly checked and the
necessary corrections included in subsequent editions. We are thankful for
any recommendations or suggestions

 Siemens AG 2001 All rights reserved We reserve the right to make technical changes

Order No.: 419 166.9004.76 J

Order to A&D LD I
Printed in the Federal Republic of Germany
Edition 02.2001 Contents

Contents

1 Identification........................................................................................8

1.1 Definition of the Valve Base Electronics ...............................................8

1.2 Technical Data ......................................................................................8

2 Description ..........................................................................................9

2.1 Application and Operating Areas ..........................................................9

2.2 Design .................................................................................................11

2.2.1 Mechanical Design..............................................................................11
2.2.2 Electrical Components ........................................................................11
2.2.3 VBE Card Subrack ..............................................................................11
2.2.4 Printer Station .....................................................................................12

3 Mode of Operation ............................................................................13

3.1 Internal DC Voltage Supply.................................................................13

3.2 Thyristor Triggering and Monitoring (TT / TM)....................................14

3.2.1 Basic Description and Mode of Operation ..........................................14
3.2.2 Signal dialog between the VBE and the TCR Valves .........................16
3.2.3 Signal dialog between VBE and TSC Valves .....................................17
3.2.4 Fault Evaluation by the TT / TM..........................................................18

4 Operation ...........................................................................................19

4.1 Description of indication and operation elements at the

VBE card subrack ...............................................................................20

4.2 Installation and Commissioning ..........................................................23

4.3 Normal Operation................................................................................23

4.3.1 Switching-on the valve-base electronics.............................................23
4.3.2 Operation of SVC according to that specified by CLC........................24
4.3.3 Deletion of stored signals....................................................................25
4.3.4 Resetting the TT/TM System ..............................................................25
4.3.5 Date and time......................................................................................25

4.4 Behaviour during fault .........................................................................26

4.5 Maintenance and Repair .....................................................................28

Siemens AG 419 166.9004.76 J

Valve Base Electronics Operating Instructions 3
Definitions, warning information Edition 02.2001

Note
The information in this Manual does not purport to cover all details or variations in
equipment, nor to provide for every possible contingency to be met in connection
with installation, operation or maintenance.
Should further information be desired or should particular problems arise which are
not covered sufficiently for the purchaser’s purposes, please contact your local
Siemens office.
Further, the contents of this Manual shall neither become a part of nor modify any
prior or existing agreement, commitment or relationship. The sales contract
contains the entire obligation of Siemens. The warranty contained in the contract
between the parties is the sole warranty of Siemens. Any statements contained
herein do not create new warranties nor modify the existing warranty.

Siemens AG 419 166.9004.76 J

4 Valve Base Electronics Operating Instructions
Edition 02.2001 Definitions, warning information

Definitions, warning information

Qualified personnel
For the purpose of this Instruction Manual and product labels, a "Qualified person"
is someone who is familiar with the installation, mounting, start-up and operation of
the equipment and the hazards involved.
He or she must have the following qualifications:
• Trained and authorised to energise, de-energise, clear, ground and tag circuits
and equipment in accordance with established safety procedures.
• Trained in the proper care and use of protective equipment in accordance with
established safety procedures.
• Trained in rendering first aid.

Safety Guidelines
This manual contains notes which you should observe to ensure your own
personal safety, as well to protect the product and connected equipment. These
notices are highlighted in the manual by a warning triangle and are marked as
follows to the level of danger.

DANGER
indicates an imminently hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in
death or serious injury.

WARNING
indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in
death or serious injury.

CAUTION
Caution used with the safety alert symbol indicates a potentially hazardous
situation which, if not avoided, may result in minor or moderate injury.

CAUTION
used without safety alert symbol indicates a potentially hazardous situation which,
if not avoided, may result in property damage.

NOTICE
NOTICE used without the safety alert symbol indicates a potential situation which,
if not avoided, may result in an undesirable result or state.

NOTE
highlights an important item of information about the product or a section of the
instructions which requires careful attention.

Siemens AG 419 166.9004.76 J

Valve Base Electronics Operating Instructions 5
Laser radiation Edition 02.2001

For proper handling

Note the following:

WARNING
Electrical equipment contains components which are at dangerous voltage levels.
If these instructions are not strictly adhered to, this can result in severe bodily injury
and material damage.
Only appropriately qualified personnel may work on this equipment or in its vicinity.
This personnel must be completely knowledgeable about all the warnings and
service measures according to this Instruction Manual.
The successful and safe operation of this equipment is dependent on proper
handling, installation, operation and maintenance.
Domestic safety guidelines and regulations must be carefully observed.

Laser radiation
Laser radiation warning
In the case of properly closed fibre-optic connections the valve control system
conforms to Laser Class 1. Hazard is thereby excluded.
If, in violation of the operating instructions, the control system is operated with
open fibre-optic connections or with broken fibre-optic cables, this condition
corresponds to Laser Class 3b according to IEC 60825-1.
In this case the following applies:
Invisible laser radiation
Irradiation of eyes or skin
by direct or dispersed radiation should be avoided.
Laser Class 3b

Siemens AG 419 166.9004.76 J

6 Valve Base Electronics Operating Instructions
Edition 02.2001 Electrostatically sensitive devices (ESD)

Electrostatically sensitive devices (ESD)

Caution
Electronic modules contain electrostatically sensitive devices that can easily be
destroyed if they are incorrectly handled. However, if your work does involve the
handling of such devices, please observe the following information:
• Electronics modules should not be touched unless work has to be carried-out
on them.
• If it is essential for you to touch an electronic module, make sure that your body
is electrostatically discharged beforehand.
• Modules may not be allowed to come into contact with electrically insulating
materials such as plastic foil, insulating table tops or clothing made of synthetic
fibres.
• Modules may only be placed on electrically conducting surfaces.
• Modules and electronic components should always be packed in electrically
conducting containers (such as metallised plastic boxes or metal canisters)
before being stored or shipped.
• If packing containers are used which are not conductive, modules and boards
must first be wrapped in a conducting material. Examples of such materials
include electrically conducting foam rubber or household aluminum foil.
For easy reference, the protective measures necessary when handling electrostatic
sensitive devices are illustrated in the sketches below:
− a = Conductive flooring − d = Anti-static overall
− b = Anti-static table − e = Anti-static chain
− c = Anti-static footwear − f = Grounding connections of cabinets

d
b d b d

e e

f f f f f

a c c a c a

Seated Standing Standing/seated

Note
The IGBTs (Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistors) which are used are devices which
can be destroyed by electrostatic discharge. The devices can be very easily
destroyed if they are incorrectly handled. All of the measures specified above must
be applied to the IGBTs to avoid the drive converter being damaged, and to ensure
that it still continues to function perfectly.
Further, the gate- and emitter connections of IGBTs must always be short-circuited
before the devices are transported.

Siemens AG 419 166.9004.76 J

Valve Base Electronics Operating Instructions 7
Identification Edition 02.2001

1 Identification

1.1 Definition of the Valve Base Electronics

The valve base electronics (VBE) is the connecting element between the open-/
closed-loop controls (OLC/CLC) and protection on ground potential and on the
other side the thyristor valves at high voltage potential.

It comprises all facilities, which are used for optical signal exchange with the thy-
ristor valves based on the gating signals from CLC, as well as for the supervision
of the thyristors in the valves with producing alarm and trip signals for OLC and
protection systems.

1.2 Technical Data

The scope of technical data is given in superior document "Product-specific Data".

Technical documents (drawing, lists and others) are to be found in Part 2 of the
valve documentation.

Siemens AG 419 166.9004.76 J

8 Valve Base Electronics Operating Instructions
Edition 02.2001 Description

2 Description

2.1 Application and Operating Areas

Thyristor series connection

Multimode branching device (MSC)

TVM per level
MSC Thyristor voltage measurement (TVM)

Fibre-optic cables
Interface to the
thyristor valves

Thyristor Triggering (TT) + Thyristor Monitoring (TM) Valve-base electronics (VBE)

Interface to the
control and
Profibus protection system
interface Cable connections

Closed Loop / Alarm Control and protection system

Open Loop Control annunciation Protection
CLC / OLC system

Fig. 2-1 Schematic diagram of VBE and signal transfer in SVC system

Siemens AG 419 166.9004.76 J

Valve Base Electronics Operating Instructions 9
Description Edition 02.2001

The valve-base electronics (VBE) represents the control centre for thyristor valve
triggering and monitoring and is at ground potential. On the basis of the signals,
emitted by the CLC, the VBE generates control signals viz. gate trigger signals,
which, in the form of optical pulses, directly control the gate of the opto-controlled
thyristors.

The VBE receives checkback signals from the Thyristor Voltage Monitoring (TVM)
cards giving the thyristor status. These checkback signals, received via fibre-optic
cables, are converted into electrical signals, evaluated and are passed on to the
thyristor monitoring (TM).

Information regarding the operating status of the plant/system is supplied by a

standardised cable from the CLC; information regarding the status of the thyristors
is derived in the VBE from signal transfer with the TVM. Fault information is passed
on to the monitoring system via a Profibus interface (with date and time, fault type
and location).

In order to increase the availability, redundant thyristors are generally provided in

high-voltage systems in view of the large number of thyristors connected in series.
When the required number of thyristors per branch is no longer available, a
shutdown signal is issued. Fibre-optic cables are used for the connections between
the valve base electronics and the valve modules. Communication between the
control and protection system and the VBE is effected via cables, which are
metallically separated by means of opto-couplers or relays.

Siemens AG 419 166.9004.76 J

10 Valve Base Electronics Operating Instructions
Edition 02.2001 Description

2.2 Design

2.2.1 Mechanical Design

A separate VBE card subrack is provided for each plant component (TSC, TCR,
etc.). These are either integrated in the control system cabinet or installed in a
separate VBE cabinet.
For a detailed overview of the mechanical design and the location of the com-
ponents, refer to the project-specific documentation of the corresponding control
system cabinet or of the VBE cabinet, as the case may be.
There details are given of cabinet design (dimensions, degree of protection, etc.)
and of any necessary interference-suppression measures (LC line filter, etc.).

2.2.2 Electrical Components

Scope, designation and types of the components are provided in the equipment
list.
The specified circuit-diagram is valid for the electrical wiring in the cubicle.

2.2.3 VBE Card Subrack

A VBE card subrack contains all those functions required for trigger control and
monitoring of a converter installation. Depending on the number of thyristor loca-
tions in the valve, the following card subrack type is employed:
1) Basic VBE card subrack for up to 32 thyristor locations in one valve branch
(refer to Fig. 2-2).

In the standard design the 24 V DC power supply is taken directly from the control
system cabinet; as an option the power supply can be taken from a converter inte-
grated in the card subrack. (a redundant supply is available to special order).

Equipment designation -Ax (x = 1, 2, 3, ...)

Arrangement of the cards see schematic Fig. 2-2
Wiring Wire-wrap
Overall mounting width 32 SPS *) (= 488 mm / 19.2 in)
Packaging system ES902 C
Connection of the cards Refer to the circuit diagram of the card
subrack
Circuitry in the cabinet refer to the cabinet circuit diagram
Board designation and types Refer to the parts list and the layout
drawing of the card subrack

*) SPS = Standard plug-in station (1 SPS = 15.24 mm)

Siemens AG 419 166.9004.76 J

Valve Base Electronics Operating Instructions 11
Description Edition 02.2001

' ' % % % % % % % % % % % % % % % % * *

H1 H1 H1 H1 H1 H1 H1 H1 H1

S1
X2 X2
S2
X3 X3
X301 X301 X301 X301 X301 X301
X4 X4
S3
X302 X302 X302 X302 X302 X302

S4
S1 S1
X303 X303 X303 X303 X303 X303
X7
X8
X304 X304 X304 X304 X304 X304
X9
U1 U1
X305 X305 X305 X305 X305 X305

X306 X306 X306 X306 X306 X306

X3
U2 U2 X307 X307 X307 X307 X307 X307

X308 X308 X308 X308 X308 X308

U3 U3
X4
X309 X309 X309 X309 X309 X309

X310 X310 X310 X310 X310 X310

U4 U4
X311 X311 X311 X311 X311 X311

X312 X312 X312 X312 X312 X312

U5 U5 X313 X313 X313 X313 X313 X313

426 100.9029.10

426 100.9026.10

426 100.9026.10

426 100.9027.10

426 100.9027.10

426 100.9027.10

426 100.9027.10

426 100.9027.10

426 100.9027.10
X2 X314 X314 X314 X314 X314 X314

X315 X315 X315 X315 X315 X315

U6 U6

X316 X316 X316 X316 X316 X316

SIEMENS

SIEMENS

SIEMENS

SIEMENS

SIEMENS

SIEMENS

SIEMENS

SIEMENS

SIEMENS
S2 S2

Reserved space for

redundant power
supply

Installation locations for 6

additional opto-receivers
(extension to nmax=32)

6 opto-receivers for 6 valve arms with nmax=16

Installation locations for 2 additional laser modules

2 laser modules

Installation location for redundant microcontroller card

(redundant design of the control system)

Microcontroller card
(thyristor control and monitoring)

Fig. 2-2 Schematic Arrangement of the cards in the basic VBE card subrack

2.2.4 Printer Station

No local printer is assigned to the VBE. All event signals are passed on to the
superordinated monitoring system via a Profibus interface.

Siemens AG 419 166.9004.76 J

12 Valve Base Electronics Operating Instructions
Edition 02.2001 Mode of Operation

3 Mode of Operation

3.1 Internal DC Voltage Supply

The supply voltage for the thyristor trigger control and monitoring system is taken
from the 24 V DC power supply of the system control cabinet. Provision has been
made for optional installation of a redundant power supply inside the basic VBE
card subrack. In this case the power supply modules –G1 and –G2 in the VBE card
subrack generate the +24 V DC voltage for the internal power supply.

Monitoring of the voltage supply is possible only when the power supply module
has been installed. No provision has been made for monitoring an external 24 V
DC supply voltage. However, system failure is signalled on failure of the voltage
supply.

Siemens AG 419 166.9004.76 J

Valve Base Electronics Operating Instructions 13
Mode of Operation Edition 02.2001

3.2 Thyristor Triggering and Monitoring (TT / TM)

3.2.1 Basic Description and Mode of Operation

The TT/TM function unit is concentrated in the VBE card subrack. By inserting
different cards, SVC valves with a maximum of 32 thyristors in a series circuit
configuration can be gated and monitored.
The micro-controller card -D1 forms the core of the thyristor triggering system
(with -D2 as redundant design).
The significance of TT, as interface element between the control and power section
is indicated in the project-related block diagram. TT generates the gate trigger
pulses for the valve thyristors using the control signals from the closed-loop
controls. The checkback signals provide information on the status of the thyristor
valves and are fed to the TM processor via a bus link after preconditioning on the
opto-receiver cards. This processor analyses all of the information, and generates
alarm and shutdown signals on the basis of predefined criteria in the form of relay
signals to the control/protection, and in the form of fault messages, which are
routed via the Profibus interface to the logging printer of the monitoring system.
By inserting a sufficient number of opto-receiver cards, the VBE card subrack can
control valves with n thyristors in series.

Gating is realised with s (up to 4) opto-transmitter channels (basic scheme is

illustrated in Fig. 3-1) for each valve branch and (phase) rectification. Splitting
using multi-mode branching devices (MSC) can be implemented up to a fibre-optic
arm number of m (n = 1 to 16 (32); m = 1 to 16).

Siemens AG 419 166.9004.76 J

14 Valve Base Electronics Operating Instructions
Edition 02.2001 Mode of Operation

VBE Thyristor valve for one branch VBE

opto-transmitter boards (positive und negative direction) opto-receiver boards
(-B1,-B2) (-B5 ... -B10)

Fibre-optic cable Fibre-optic cable

s arms m arms Fibre-optic cables
each m arms

-B1 -B2 -B5 -B10

V(m+1) V1
... V2m ... Vm X301

-U1 X302
Mix position
Multimode branching X303
device (MSC) Voltage X304
monitoring
-U2 A1 .... Am X305

X306

X307

-U3 X308

V1 ... Vm
-U4 X309
V(m+1) ... V2m X310

X311

-U5 X312

X313

X314
Fibre-optic cable
-U6 X315
s arms
Fibre-optic cable X316
m arms

Front panel Front panel

socket socket

Fig. 3-1 Schematic depiction of fibre-optic link between the VBE and the valve, and, as an example,
the signal assignment for one valve branch

The m arms of the transmission fibre-optics from the thyristors are combined in the
thyristor module by means of a multimode branching device, optically mixed and
split once more into s arms, which can be controlled by different transmitter diodes.

The trigger control fibre-optic cables are connected to different opto-transmitter

cards. As a general rule (s-1) of the opto-transmitters deliver enough optical power
to guarantee effective triggering of the valve.
Therefore one of the opto-transmitters is redundant, that means if one opto-trans-
mitter fails, operation is not interrupted.

A failed opto-transmitter channel can be recognised and signalled by the TT/TM

system.

The status of each valve thyristor is sensed by its assigned thyristor voltage moni-
tor and signalled to the VBE via fibre-optic cable, whereby m individual fibre-optic
cable arms are combined to form one bundle.

Siemens AG 419 166.9004.76 J

Valve Base Electronics Operating Instructions 15
Mode of Operation Edition 02.2001

3.2.2 Signal dialog between the VBE and the TCR Valves
The gating unit (LCA) on the micro-controller card controls the plus and minus
direction of all the valve arms, whose data transfer can either be separate or
simultaneous depending on the operating condition.

Voltage Blocking Mode or Test Operation

If voltage is applied to the branch phases (at least 180 V AC per thyristor location),
the blocking ability of the thyristors and the function of the corresponding TVM can
be monitored, without firing the thyristors. In this case the TVM cards generate
periodic checkback pulses of 1 – 2 µs. In this mode of operation it is only possible
to check the checkback signals via the fibre-optic link.

Power operation
Depending on the mode of operation (TSC or TCR / TSR), gate trigger signals of
10 VGXUDWLRQDUHJHQHUDWHG UHIHUWRVLJQDO&LQ)LJDQG)LJ IURPWKH
gate trigger signals of the closed-loop controls (refer to signal "A" in Fig. 3-2 and
Fig. 3-3) and the checkback signal "positive voltage" of the TVM card (refer to
signal "B" in Fig. 3-2 and Fig. 3-3). These gate trigger signals in the form of optical
signals directly trigger the opto-controlled thyristors. The optical path of the trigger
control signals can be monitored in the power mode.

Vvalve
Vsec

Ivalve

alpha
Start signals from
the controller

A
-
Checkback
signals of
the TVM

+
- B

+
C
the thyristors
signals from
the VBE to
Trigger

Fig. 3-2 TCR signal dialog between closed-loop controls, VBE and TVM

The gate trigger signals are derived from the start signals of the closed-loop
controller.

Siemens AG 419 166.9004.76 J

16 Valve Base Electronics Operating Instructions
Edition 02.2001 Mode of Operation

Protective Firing
On failure of the trigger control circuit, the protective firing circuit integrated in the
thyristor comes into effect. In this case, the thyristor involved is triggered (forced
triggering), as soon as a voltage level of 7.5 kV to 10 kV is reached. On exceeding
a voltage of 6.5 kV to 7.5 kV a signal is generated by the TVM and then transferred
to the TM for evaluation.

3.2.3 Signal dialog between VBE and TSC Valves

Busbar voltage Valve current Capacitor bank voltage

Valve voltage
from the operation
Checkback CSP Start COPER
= TSC

TSC - on

+/-
controller

A
signals

+
from the
signals

TVM

- B
the thyristors
signals from
the VBE to

+
C
Trigger

-
Transition to current operation; triple trigger Firing on receipt of checkback signals from the TVM
signals derived from CSP

Fig. 3-3 TSC signal dialog between closed-loop controller, VBE and TVM

The gate trigger signals are derived from the checkback signals of the TVM.

Siemens AG 419 166.9004.76 J

Valve Base Electronics Operating Instructions 17
Mode of Operation Edition 02.2001

3.2.4 Fault Evaluation by the TT / TM

Each individual thyristor location is assigned to an opto-receiver channel which is
used to register the checkback information. By cyclically interrogating these check-
back signals, the TM processor can identify the status of the thyristor locations
regarding blocking capability and possible protective firings according to specified
criteria (decreased redundant thyristors, minimum number of thyristors no longer
available, protective firing alarm).

The opto-transmitter channels are monitored in a similar fashion. A result is only

evaluated if it occurs in a minimum of three consecutive sampling cycles.

The task of the TM processor is to generate alarm- and trip signals from the re-
ceived information and output them to the open- and closed loop control/protection
via opto-coupler or relay outputs.

The micro-controller card has a watchdog timer for self-monitoring (VBE fault on
processor fault).

Messages giving the type of fault and the precise fault location are sent to the cen-
tral monitoring system via the Profibus. The communication protocol employed is
dependent on the characteristics of the monitoring system.

The format of message display on the screen and on the event printer of the
monitoring system may differ from plant to plant. Details are to be found in the
description of the monitoring system.

Siemens AG 419 166.9004.76 J

18 Valve Base Electronics Operating Instructions
Edition 02.2001 Operation

4 Operation

Caution
Light sources, which emit invisible laser radiation (λ = 940 nm), are employed on
the laser card. If the fibre-optic cable is damaged or not inserted, serious damage
may be caused to eyes and skin.
(Laser class 3b)

The following points should be checked under all circumstances before switching
on the VBE:

• All the fibre-optic cables must be fully inserted.

• All unused channels must be covered with the black plastic protective covers
included in the scope of supply.

• The metallic protective cover for protection of the fibre-optic connections must
be screwed on correctly.

Caution
No modifications should be made to the control fibre-optic cables while the VBE is
switched on. Subsequent damage could result in dangerous injuries due to
consequential laser radiation.

Siemens AG 419 166.9004.76 J

Valve Base Electronics Operating Instructions 19
Operation Edition 02.2001

4.1 Description of indication and operation elements at the

VBE card subrack

H1 green Card power supply o.k.

yellow Lights always in non-redundant systems

H1
red Indication of VBE fault
S1
S2

S1 Fault acknowledgement, optical transmission release

S3

S4 S2 Reset pushbutton
X7
X8
S3 Interface changeover
X9

S4 Pushbutton for activation of the bootstrap

mode (in conjunction with S2, S3 for flash
programming)
X3

X7 Socket (gate trigger signal phase L1 +/-)

X8 Socket (gate trigger signal phase L2 +/-)

X4 X9 Socket (gate trigger signal phase L3 +/-)

X3 Flash EPROM programming interface

for loading new versions of the control
and monitoring program software

X4 Profibus interface (connection of the

standard 9-core Profibus interface cable)
426 100.9029.10

X2

X2 Interface to open-loop / closed-loop controls

(connection of the standard 37-core interface
cable)
SIEMENS

Fig. 4-1 Front panel of the micro-controller card

Siemens AG 419 166.9004.76 J

20 Valve Base Electronics Operating Instructions
Edition 02.2001 Operation

H1 green Card power supply o.k.

yellow Laser gate trigger

control system is active
H1
red Fault in the laser gate trigger
X2 control system
X3
X4
Measuring sockets for
X2 Laserpulse 1 +/-
S1 X3 Laserpulse 2 +/-
X4 Laserpulse 3 +/-

U1 S1 Laser release 1
Switch is operated by screw
in order to secure the barrier

U2

U3

U1

U4 U2

U3 Laser output
U4 Channel 1 to 6

U5 U5
426 100.9026.10

U6

U6
SIEMENS

S2

S2 Laser release 2
Switch is operated by screw in
order to secure the barrier

Fig. 4-2 Front panel of the opto-transmitter (laser) card

Siemens AG 419 166.9004.76 J

Valve Base Electronics Operating Instructions 21
Operation Edition 02.2001

H1 green Card power supply o.k.

yellow Voltage at valve (darker during triggering,

since voltage at the valve is present only
momentarily)
H1 red Indication of VBE system fault

X301

X302

X303

X304 Checkback signal inputs

channel 1 to 8
X305

X306

X307

X308

X309

X310

X311

X312
Checkback signal inputs
channel 9 to 16
X313
426 100.9027.10

X314

X315

X316
SIEMENS

Fig. 4-3 Front panel of the opto-receiver card

Siemens AG 419 166.9004.76 J

22 Valve Base Electronics Operating Instructions
Edition 02.2001 Operation

4.2 Installation and Commissioning

Detailed instructions about installation work are to be found in the Installation
Manual 419 166.9011.76 JM.

For commissioning the SVC the instructions of the manual „Thyristor Valves and
VBE“, 419 166.9012.76 JM must be complied with.

4.3 Normal Operation

Laser radiation warning

The power supply of the VBE may be switched on only after it has been ensured
that all the fibre-optic cables are connected correctly to the laser cards.
Open sockets at the MSC of the valve module must be closed by means of the
black plastic cap included in the scope of supply.
Checking of valve power operation is permissible only after this has been done.
Such a test arrangement is not dangerous. It corresponds to Laser Class 1.
If, contrary to these instructions, the fibre-optic cable is removed or free MSC
outputs are not closed with the caps provided for this purpose during power
operation, considerable hazard is caused. This condition corresponds to Laser
Class 3b according to IEC 60825-1.
In this case the following applies:
Invisible laser radiation
Irradiation of eyes or skin
by direct or dispersed radiation should be avoided.
Laser Class 3b

Caution
To ensure correct operation, the data pertaining to the electrical connections and
ambient conditions as specified in the superordinated document "Product-specific
Data" must be maintained.

Further, operators must be thoroughly familiar with the equipment and the infor-
mation in the Operating Instructions before handling the units.

4.3.1 Switching-on the valve-base electronics

After the VBE cabinet has been completely connected-up, the power supply is
switched-on for commissioning by means of the corresponding switches in the
system control cabinet.
The power supply voltage is correctly available at all the cards, when the green
LED –H1 lights on each card.

Siemens AG 419 166.9004.76 J

Valve Base Electronics Operating Instructions 23
Operation Edition 02.2001

The active condition of the micro-controller cards is indicated by lighting of the

yellow LED H1.
The red LED –H1 always lights on the micro-controller card subsequent to "Power
on" or "Reset". After operation of the pushbutton –S1, the VBE is ready for service
and the red LED must be extinguished. The red LED on the opto-transmitter card
should not light on "Power on" or "Reset" in the absence of external control signals.
When external control signals are present, it is possible that a fault indication may
appear. In this case also the fault should be acknowledged by operation of the
pushbutton S1. The red LED on the opto-receiver card lights up only for the du-
ration of the reset procedure.
If the VBE receives an enable signal from the controls (i.e. the circuit-breaker is
closed) and the enable monitoring signal, the TT starts to monitor the valves.
Any faults recognised are evaluated by the TM and signalled to the OLC and
protection systems.

Warning
When operational, certain parts of the VBE are at dangerous voltage levels, es-
pecially the field of the input terminals on the bottom plate and in the rear upper
area of the cubicle (switches, removable links).
If the operating instructions are not observed, this can lead to severe bodily injury
or material damage.
All warning information must be observed.

4.3.2 Operation of SVC according to that specified by CLC

With continuous enabling signal and the periodic start signals for the individual
branches received from the controls, the TT generates the firing signals for the
thyristors and evaluates the checkback signals from the thyristor voltage moni-
toring (TVM) cards with regard to protective firing events and voltage blocking
capability of the thyristors.
On disappearance of the enabling of trigger signals, the TT terminates triggering
operation. The TM changes over to the valve voltage monitoring mode (however,
the enable signal must be available!).
In both of these modes, events or faults in the valve area are transferred to the
control and protection systems as alarm and trip signals via the TM and are also
sent to the monitoring system via the Profibus interface.
On disappearance of the enable signal (i.e. circuit-breaker open, voltage is not
available at the valves), the TT terminates triggering operation and the TM termi-
nates monitoring operation. However, stored signals are retained until the valves
are re-enabled and relay signals are sealed in.

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24 Valve Base Electronics Operating Instructions
Edition 02.2001 Operation

4.3.3 Deletion of stored signals

At any time during operation, it is possible to delete all stored messages involving
valve- and VBE events and to cancel relay signals, etc. (key -S1).
When the key -S1 of the micro-controller card is depressed, the following message
appears on the display of the monitoring system (and is also printed on the event
printer):
<Date, time> ***STATUS INTERROGATION***
<Date, time> ***END OF STATUS INTERROGATION***
This is confirmation that the stored signals have been deleted.

4.3.4 Resetting the TT/TM System

The key -S1 on the micro-controller card is employed for fault acknowledgement
and may be operated at any time.
The key -S2 is the "Reset" pushbutton. It may be operated only when the in-
stallation is shutdown.

Caution
Before actuating the RESET button, ensure that the valves are not under voltage
(open and lock-out the circuit-breaker!).
If "RESET" is initiated during operation, this causes the complete system to be
shutdown, as all output signals have an undefined status for a short time. Further,
the possibility cannot be excluded that erroneous pulses will be generated.
Thus: Operate the red button S1 only if the TT/TM system is to be restarted!

4.3.5 Date and time

In the basic design the VBE obtains time information via the Profibus interface. On
reception of an additional synchronisation signal, the VBE overwrites its internal
time with the time received via the Profibus. On occurrence of a fault, the VBE
adds a time-stamp with a resolution of some ms. In the absence of the synchro-
nisation signal for 3 minutes and on renewed reception of this signal, corre-
sponding event signals are generated.

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Valve Base Electronics Operating Instructions 25
Operation Edition 02.2001

4.4 Behaviour during fault

Warning
Operation under unspecified in conditions is not permissible. If alarm signals in-
dicate that the VBE is being operated under inadmissible conditions, then the
cause of the alarm should be immediately investigated, and should be removed as
quickly as possible.
If the operating instructions are not observed, this can lead to severe bodily injury
or significant material damage.
If the VBE has to be shutdown because the protection or monitoring equipment
functions have responded, before restarting, the fault cause must be investigated
and removed.
When the system is down, all faults which were identified and printed-out by the
thyristor monitoring function should be investigated and rectified, even if operation
is not immediately influenced, as the fault/errors still lie within the redundancy
range.

The fault type is indicated using various signals and/or event messages on the
event printer or event monitor system which allow the fault cause to be identified.
The following tables provide an overview of possible alarm and shutdown
messages.
Only fault messages involving the VBE are discussed in the following, and in-
formation provided regarding troubleshooting.
For the procedure to be adopted for replacement of cards reference should be
made to the "Instructions for Maintenance" 419 166.9013.76 JW.

Table 4-1 Faults in the power supply of the card subrack

Signal to Fault indication Possible cause Check Notes on fault

control & clearance
protection
system
"VBE OK" All front panel Failure of the ex- Measurement of Switch on the ex-
signal LEDs are off ternal card subrack the 24 V DC sup- ternal 24 V DC
disappears power supply ply voltage at the power supply
card subrack con- again
nections
Green LED of a Failure of the card Check the plug Replacement of
card is off power supply and socket the defective card
connection

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26 Valve Base Electronics Operating Instructions
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Table 4-2 Faults in the thyristor triggering and thyristor monitoring system

Signal to Fault indication Possible cause Check Notes on fault

control & clearance
protection
system
"VBE OK" Red LED –H1 on Card is not Visual inspection, Insert cards in
signal MC card is off inserted correctly check with layout accordance with
disappears drawing layout drawing AO
Red LED –H1 on Fault in program Attempt to If the red LED is
MC card is on sequence of the acknowledge the not extinguished,
MC card (e.g. fault with push- the MC card
Watchdog) button –S1 (on MC should be replaced
card).
The red LEDs – Laser diode failure The defective Replacement of
H1 on the MC (both channels) channels are listed the laser cards
card and on the by the event
laser cards are printer
on

Table 4-3 Faults in the communication link with the monitoring system
(Profibus interface)

Signal to Fault indication Possible cause Check Notes on fault

control & clearance
protection
system
GPS not Text message on Failure of the Measurement at Make the synchro-
synchro- event printer of external synchro- the input terminals nisation signal
nised the monitoring nisation signal or of the VBE card available Acknow-
system interruption of the subrack ledgement is
This signal path effected auto-
message matically
exists only
at basis-
subrack
Storage Text message on More than 1000 Profibus con- Make the Profibus
overflow event printer of events stored in nection not avail- connection
the monitoring VBE and not able (refer to the available
system interrogated monitoring system)

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Valve Base Electronics Operating Instructions 27
Operation Edition 02.2001

4.5 Maintenance and Repair

The valve base electronics (VBE) does not require any special maintenance. The
condition of the cabinet, in which the VBE are installed, should also be checked
during annual maintenance of the valves.

The valve-base electronics is designed, so that faults can be identified using the
fault messages or displays on the faulty card. Troubleshooting is fast by replacing
these cards, further instructions are given by Maintenance Manual,
419 166.9013.76 JW.

Warning
Operational electrical equipment has parts which have dangerous voltage levels.
Incorrect handling of these units can therefore lead to death, severe bodily injury or
significant material damage.
Please observe the troubleshooting/service measures for this equipment and all
notes in this section and on the product itself.
• Only appropriately qualified personnel may service/repair the unit.
• The unit should be disconnected from the supply, locked-out and grounded
before any work is started.
• Only spare parts authorised by the manufacturer may be used.
The specified maintenance intervals as well as instructions for repair and replace-
ment must be adhered to.

If faults occur which cannot be localised and rectified using available means, then
customer service should be requested. Replaced and defective cards should be
returned to the manufacturer for repair.

The Notes on Electrostatic Sensitive Devices (ESD) are to be observed for

handling cards.

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28 Valve Base Electronics Operating Instructions
Edition 02.2001 Operation

Siemens AG 419 166.9004.76 J

Valve Base Electronics Operating Instructions 29
 The following editions have been published so far: Edition Internal Item Number
02.2001 419 166.9004.76 J AA-76

Edition 02.2001 consists of the following chapters:

Chapter Changes Date of Edition

1 Identification first edition 02.2001
2 Description first edition 02.2001
3 Mode of Operation first edition 02.2001
4 Operation first edition 02.2001

Siemens AG
Group: Automation and Drives (A&D)
Division Large Drives (LD) © Siemens AG, 2001
P.O. Box 4743, D-90025 Nürnberg Subject to change without notice

Siemens Aktiengesellschaft Order No.: 419 166.9004.76 J

Printed in the Federal Republic of Germany
02.2001