Section 13 — Electrical

Electrical Equipment Inspection and Testing

IPE Engineering Practice IPE-EP-13-2-2

Document number: IPE-EP-13-2-2 · Section: 13 — Electrical

1.0

1.1

1.2

1.3

1.4

1.5

1.6

2.0

SCOPE

This Practice along with the other IPE Engineering Practices provides details for field inspection and testing of electrical equipment at Owner plants and associated facilities. Forms to report testing results are contained in EP 13-2-3 .

This Practice covers the requirements necessary to insure that plant electrical equipment complies with applicable codes, standards and contract documents.

This Practice will be applicable to both new facilities, modernization and repair of existing facilities.

All IPE Engineering Practices are to be used in conjunction with this Practice to provide the complete field inspection and testing requirements.

Any deviation from this Practice must be approved by the procedure described in EP 1-1-3. A revision bar indicates all changes made to this Revision.

REFERENCES

The latest published edition of the following Standards and Codes shall be used with this Practice:

STANDARDS AND PUBLICATIONS

STANDARDS AND PUBLICATIONS (Continued)

STANDARDS AND PUBLICATIONS (Continued)

3.0

3.1

3.2

3.3

3.4

3.5

3.6

3.7

3.8

3.9

3.10

3.11

3.12

DEFINITIONS

Calibrate/Set - Refers to the application of a set point to a device and verify the setting/response by application of a known test quantity.

Check - Visual inspection, used to insure conformance with drawings and specifications.

Contractor - Company or business that agrees to furnish materials or perform specified services at a specified price and/or rate to the Owner.

Function (Functional) Check - Refers to the verification of the proper operation of a system (e.g. complete control scheme).

Inspect/Inspection - A detailed visual inspection that will require removal of covers, etc. to insure conformance to drawings and specifications.

Inspector - A Inflection Point Engineering, LLC appointed engineer or inspector.

Manufacturer - The recipient of a direct or indirect purchase order for materials and/or equipment. In this context, a direct order is one issued to a Manufacturer by a Contractor or the Owner. An indirect order is one issued to a Manufacturer by a vendor (recipient of a direct order) for materials, fabricated components, or subassemblies.

Owner - Inflection Point Engineering, LLC.

Owner's Engineer - A Inflection Point Engineering, LLC appointed engineer.

Purchaser - The party placing a direct purchase order. The Purchaser is the Owner's designated representative.

Verify - To prove by operation, measurement, or other means that equipment operates and/or is adjusted properly.

Test - A method or process used to verify the quality of equipment usually by/with the application of voltage/current.

4.0

4.1

4.2

4.2.1

4.2.2

4.2.3

4.3

4.3.1

4.3.2

4.3.3

4.3.4

4.3.5

4.4

4.4.1

4.4.2

4.5

4.5.1

4.5.2

GENERAL DESCRIPTION AND REQUIREMENTS

Qualification of Inspection and Testing Personnel

All electrical equipment inspectors and testing personnel must be approved by the Owner.

Test Equipment Requirements

All test equipment must be calibrated and suitable for the task. Must be on a six month recalibration cycle.

Must have a current calibration tag affixed to the test equipment.

Calibration must be traceable back to the National Bureau of Standards.

Drawings and Equipment Instruction Books

Only the most current "for construction" drawings and equipment Manufacturers "as-builts" drawing shall be used for inspection and testing.

Electrical equipment instruction books shall be used in conjunction with project specified

IPE Engineering Practices and contract documents.

Field verification of scale dimensions on plan drawings is required since locations, distances and levels will be governed by actual field conditions. The electrical plan drawings are diagrammatic in nature and do not indicate exact and complete routes of raceways and wirings.

All drawings, shall be reviewed before starting work including structural, concrete, piping, instrumentation and vendor's drawings to ascertain any conflicts of interferences with electrical equipment. If any instances arise where such interferences are found, they shall be immediately reported to the Owner or Owner's Engineer.

One complete set of drawings shall be maintained exclusively for record purposes and all significant code changes, modifications, and additions shall be noted and shown; this set of drawings shall be given to the Owner upon completion of the electrical work.

Area Classification

The installation shall be in strict compliance with the construction drawings, the National Electrical Code and API 500. When conflicts and/or drawing omissions occur the Owner shall be responsible for resolution and/or changes.

Field inspection shall verify that the complete installation and all equipment meet the area classification requirements.

Handling and Storage

All electrical equipment shall be lifted, moved, stored in strict compliance with the Manufacturer's (and contract document) requirements.

All lifting, handling and moving of fabricated/engineered electrical equipment (i.e. power transformers, switchgear, large frame motors) shall be witnessed by the Owners field inspector or Owner approved designate.

• Identification/Nameplates/Wiremarks
• All electrical equipment (e.g. switchgear, power cable, junction boxes, motor control centers, etc.) shall have the required IPE Engineering Practice nameplates and/or markings as well as job specific tags.
• All field installed wiring shall be marked in accordance to the drawings and the specific method approved for the installation in the contract documents.

4.7 Forms and Check Lists (Inspection and Testing)

Forms and checklist for the inspection and testing of electrical equipment are listed in EP 13-2-3. Contractors test forms may be used after review and approval by the Owner.

FIELD INSPECTION AND TESTING OF ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT

• General

This section details the minimum required field inspection and testing of electrical equipment operation and installation. The requirements are general in nature and shall be supplemented with specified additional requirements as outlined in the Manufacturer's instruction manuals.

• All required inspection and testing shall be performed prior to placing any electrical equipment or system in operation to establish that all equipment, devices and wiring are in satisfactory condition, have been properly installed, will operate as intended and comply with all required safety standards/codes.
• The check items are normally performed by the Contractor/Subcontractor during the normal job progress. Satisfactory completion of these items shall be monitored by an Owner's Representative.
• Field inspection, testing and functional check items shall be performed in conjunction with the Owner's qualified electrical power engineer, unless witnessing is specifically waived by the Owner.
• All testing limits shall be in accordance with this Practice and the equipment Manufacturer's instructions. Conflicts between this Practice and specific equipment Manufacturer's recommendations shall be resolved by the Owner.
• Insulation resistance instrument test voltage levels for installed field testing shall be as noted below unless specified otherwise in this Practice or exceeds levels acceptable to the equipment manufacturer. Insulation resistance test voltage levels shall be as follows:

• 480 Volt Switchgear
• Equipment and Installation Check Items
• Check switchgear assembly for proper alignment, levelness, tightness of foundation bolts and tightness of all bolting in general.
• Check all equipment for removal of blocking, blocking supports, temporary ties and temporary jumper wires.
• Check control power fuses for proper size, type and location.
• Check CT and PT ratios.
• Check all components for required identification, including switchgear and breakers.
• Inspect equipment and each breaker and report installation or shipping damage, loose material, shipping blocks or contaminants.
• Inspect installation location and report any unfavorable environmental conditions that must be corrected.
• Inspect switchgear bus bar connections for tightness and torquing.
• Inspect bus bar insulation and bolt connection insulating covers.
• Inspect switchgear bus supports for cleanness and tightness.
• Inspect ground connection to switchgear ground bus.
• Inspect settings on all protective relays for conformance to the approved relay settings summary and/or coordination study.
• Inspect operation of drawout and/or elevating mechanisms including mechanical interlocks, position indicators and safety features.
• Inspect operation of shutter devices.
• Inspect operation of PT trunnion assemblies.
• Inspect circuit breaker insulating parts for cleanness and dryness.
• Inspect/verify contact travel for main contacts per Manufacturer's procedure.
• Inspect operation of circuit breaker manual operation (maintenance closing procedure) to verify all parts are free and work smoothly. Verify operation of electrical controls.
• Inspect operation of breaker mechanical trip function.
• Inspect lubrication of all breaker moving parts.

• Testing Requirements

In addition to the Manufacturer's field testing requirements the following tests shall be performed.

• Test insulation resistance of switchgear bus - one minute reading (phase to phase and phase to ground).
• Test insulation resistance of instrument transformers with applicable voltage rated megger - one minute reading.
• Test insulation resistance of each circuit breaker (closed position) - one minute test (phase to phase and phase to ground).
• Test each breaker pole (contacts) for conductivity/resistance with a micro-ohmmeter. Contact resistance shall not exceed that specified by the breaker Manufacturer.
• Calibrate each protective relay with settings on devices in accordance with approved relay settings table and/or coordination study.
• Test CT secondary circuit by applying current to CT secondary windings and verifying proper connection and operation of all applicable relays and metering devices (see paragraph 5.15 of this Practice).
• Test PT secondary circuit by applying voltage to PT secondary winding and verifying proper connection and operation of all applicable relays (see paragraph 5.15 of this Practice).
• Test operation of all space heater units including switching devices.
• Inspect protective relays and completed relay setting forms to insure all protective relays have been tested and set.
• Verify voltage level and polarity of DC control power.
• Phase out testing across bus tie prior to closing the breaker.
• Inspect and test low voltage circuit breaker solid state and electromechanical protective devices per the manufacturer's specifications. Solid state breaker trips shall be set and tested utilizing full current/primary testing.
• Function Check Items
• Function test circuit breaker in test position as follows:
• Close and trip circuit breaker from its local and remote control devices - observe operation of all auxiliary devices.
• Trip CB from each local protective device individually. Verify lockout relay operation if applicable.
• Verify CB anti-pump circuitry.
• Function test circuit breaker in normal operating position prior to energization of bus as follows:

Close and trip circuit breaker from its local and remote devices and each protective device.

• Functional test protective relay trips, all interlocks, remote controls and transfer schemes.
• High resistance grounding schemes for 480 volt systems shall be calibrated, inspected and tested per paragraph 5.18 of this Practice.
• Medium Voltage Switchgear

In addition to applicable items in 5.2.1, 5.2.2, and 5.2.3 above, perform the following:

• Verify/inspect vacuum switchgear main contacts for contact travel per the Manufacturer's procedure.
• D.C. high potential test the switchgear bus following the manufacturer's instruction for voltage level and test time (observe the Manufacturer's precautions on drawing out PT's and shorting CT's).

• Polarity check and ratio check CT's used in bus and transformer differential schemes and those used with directional relays, per section 5.15 of this Practice.
• For air magnetic breakers perform a D.C. high potential test per the manufacturer's instructions.
• Remove protective enclosures from each breaker and perform all mechanical operator and contact alignment tests on the breaker and its operating mechanism in accordance with the Manufacturer's instructions.
• Test dielectric strength of each CB vacuum bottle with a D.C. hipot unit per the breaker Manufacturer's procedure.
• Outdoor Circuit Breaker - 2.4-34.5KV Oil/SF 6
• Check that the circuit breaker nameplate information agrees with the specifications.
• Inspect the circuit breaker for installation and shipping damage, loose materials, or other conditions that must be corrected.
• Check the equipment frame and control cabinet ground and verify the number and size of ground bus and grounding pads.
• Verify that all electrical and mechanical adjustments and measurements for the contacts and arc suppressors are in agreement with the Manufacturer's instructions (This may not be practical/possible for SF 6 breakers).
• Measure each breaker pole resistance with a micro-ohmmeter. Contact resistance shall not exceed the Manufacturer's limits.
• Perform a one minute insulation resistance test (megger) on each breaker pole-to-ground, pole-to-pole and across the open contacts. The minimum test value is 50 megohm.
• Oil circuit breaker oil shall be tested by ANSI and ASTM standard test methods and exceed the breaker Manufacturer's recommended values for the following tests:
• Acidity
• Color (ASTM)
• Dielectric breakdown voltage (per ASTM procedure)
• Interfacial tension
• Power factor
• PCB content
• Specific gravity
• Perform a power factor test on each breaker pole in the open and closed positions. Test values shall be in accordance with Manufacturer's specifications.
• Perform a power factor test on each breaker bushing. Test values shall be in accordance with the nameplate rating of each bushing.
• Inspect and test all bushing current transformers. All CT's shall be tested as outlined in paragraph 5.15 of this Practice.
• Verify the operation of all mechanical and electrical interlocks and alarms.
• Verify that all external wires are correctly labeled per the specific requirements of the contract documents.

• Operate the breaker electrically and conduct time and motion tests in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. Circuit breaker travel time and velocity shall be within Manufacturer's acceptable limits.
• Verify the operation of space heaters and associated controls.
• For SF6 breakers insure that SF6 tank heaters and controls are operating correctly.
• 480 Volt Motor Control Centers and Switchracks
• Check that the control center/switchrack, starter, breaker and fuse nameplate information agrees with the specification.
• Inspect the equipment and each starter for installation or shipping damage, loose material, shipping blocks or contamination that must be corrected.
• Inspect the installation location for unfavorable environmental conditions that must be corrected.
• Check equipment for level, security of floor supports, and operation and alignment of doors and hinged panels.
• Check the equipment ground and verify number and size of ground bus and straps agree with the approved construction/equipment drawings.
• Inspect all power bus assemblies and torque test all bolted bus connections. Inspect bus supports.
• Check operation of each switch or breaker in each starter manually. Verify door interlocking.
• Measure insulation resistance (megger) of each bus section phase-to-phase and phase-to- ground for one minute.
• Measure insulation resistance of each starter section phase-to-phase and phase-to-ground with the starter contacts closed and the protective device open.
• Measure insulation resistance of each control circuit with respect to ground.
• Check each contactor and thermal overhead device for proper coil size and heater rating with the respective motor full load current and one line diagram.
• Verify the arrangement and operation of all auxiliary contacts.
• High resistance grounding system (if provided) shall be calibrated, inspected and tested per paragraph 5.18 of this Practice.
• Check and test rotating equipment protective relays in accordance with Manufacturer's instructions.
• Medium Voltage Motors and Motor Circuits
• Inspection
• Check power and control conduits for proper marking.
• Check all components for required identification and nameplate data.
• Check all equipment items for conformance to area classification.
• Check equipment installations for proper location of seals, breathers, drains, floor supports, anchors and mountings.
• Inspect starter current-limiting fuse type and rating.

• Inspect contactor rating.
• Inspect CT ratio, protective relay nameplate.
• Check frame and power cable shields for proper grounding and record the type and size of ground strap.
• Inspect wire terminations at motor and contactor including lug and stress cone installations if applicable.
• Inspect motor RTD termination at motor and remote devices.
• Motor Inspection
• Prior to energizing the machine, remove all foreign objects between the rotor and the stator.
• Check oil levels and verify correct motor lubrication is used.
• Inspect slip rings, brushes, and brush riggings for damage, loose connections, contamination and seating. Brushes must move freely in their holders and make firm and even contact with the collector rings.
• Check machine shafts (rotors) for alignment with driven equipment and for freedom of rotation.
• Verify the proper connection of exciters and voltage regulators.
• Testing Requirements (prior to running)
• Test the insulation of each motor by performing a ten minute dielectric absorption test (ratio must be 2.5 or higher).
• Test the continuity of each power and control conductor.
• Test the insulation resistance of each control circuit conductor, each conductor to ground.
• Test/calibrate each protective relay.
• Test CT circuit continuity/connection by the secondary current loading method (Para. 5.15).
• Test the insulation resistance CT circuits (caution on test levels) and verify that there is one ground per CT/CT set.
• Test the power cables per paragraph 5.13 of this Practice.
• Test RTD's with a resistance bridge measurement instrument.
• Functional Check Items
• Functional check controls with contactor or circuit breaker in its normal operating position and motor leads disconnected; close and trip contactor from all control and protective devices verify proper operation of any auxiliary devices and alarms.
• Check motor for proper rotation.
• Perform a four hour run in test on each motor (four hour test to start after temperature stabilization). Take the following readings after bearing oil temperature stabilization.
• No load current (every 15 minutes).
• Vibration and bearing temperature (every 15 minutes).
• Check motor operation at electrical center.
• If motor is equipped with metering (remote/local), RTD's and/or vibration probes these shall be used during this test. Velocity transducers shall be used on motors not supplied with vibration probes.
• Motor speed (every 15 minutes).
• Filter manometer readings (if supplied).
• Provide spectrum analysis of the output of each radial vibration probe (if equipped) or bearing housing vibration up to and including 10 orders.

• 480 Volt Motors and Motor Circuits
• Equipment and Installation Check Items
• Check motor nameplate Hp and full load current rating.
• Check motor grounding connections (in terminal box and on frame).
• Check motor shaft for free rotation.
• Check motor bearings for proper lubrication.
• Check motor shaft end play.
• Check starter main and auxiliary contact condition and alignment.
• Check starter and circuit breaker components for cleanness including all seating surfaces of unplated and laminated magnet faces - remove any rust or rust preventative.
• Check control power fuses size, control power transformer size and voltage rating, starter coil voltage.
• Verify mechanical function of all starter and circuit breaker movable parts.
• Check wiring for conformance to color code and proper identification.
• Check size of power and control conductors.
• Check power and control conduits for proper marking.
• Check all components for required identification.
• Check all equipment items for conformance to area classification.
• Check equipment installations for proper location of seals, breathers, and drains.
• Equipment and Installation Inspect Items
• Inspect circuit breaker rating and instantaneous setting.
• Inspect starter size, O.L. heater size and O.L. relay setting.
• Inspect operation of O.L. relay device and circuit breaker operate mechanical trip option.
• Inspect operation of external O.L. reset device.
• Inspect solid state molded case breaker (when provided) settings.
• Testing Requirements
• Tests indicated below shall be performed prior to any connection:
• Test insulation resistance (megger) of each motor - thirty second reading.
• Test continuity of each power and control conductor.
• Test insulation resistance of each power and control conductor (each power conductor to be checked phase to phase and phase to ground - each control conductor phase to ground only).
• Test insulation resistance (megger) of motor power conductors plus motor following makeup of leads at motor.
• Function Check Items
• Function check control circuit with motor leads disconnected close and trip starter from all control devices and verify proper operation of any auxiliary devices.
• Check motor for proper rotation.
• Perform a one hour run-in test (no load) on each motor. After bearing temperature stabilization (one hour test to start after temperature stabilization), take readings at 15 minute intervals of the following:
• Load current.
• Vibration and bearing temperature.
• Inspect motor electrical center.
• Motor speed

• NEMA Class E2 Medium Voltage Motor Starter Lineups (Vacuum)
• Equipment and Installation Check and Inspection
• Check lineup for proper alignment, levelness, tightness of foundation bolts and tightness of all bolting in general.
• Check all equipment for removal of blocking, supports, temporary ties and temporary wire jumpers.
• Check all components for required identification.
• Check all current limiting power and control fuses for proper size, type and location.
• Check CT and PT ratios, and protective relay nameplates to applicable One Line and Three Line diagrams (and relay test sheets).
• Inspect operation of drawout and/or elevating mechanisms including mechanical interlocks, position indicators and safety features.
• Inspect operation of shutter devices.
• Inspect operation of PT trunnion assemblies (if supplied).
• Verify operation of CPT secondary kirk key assembly (if supplied).
• Testing Requirements
• Test insulation resistance (megger) of bus-one minute reading (phase to phase and phase to ground). D.C. high potential test the bus per Manufacturer's instructions.
• Test insulation resistance of all instrument transformers.
• Calibrate each protective relay with settings on devices in accordance with approved relay settings table and/or coordination study.
• Test CT secondary circuit by applying current to CT secondary windings and verifying proper connections, operation of applicable relays, metering devices and associated control circuits (per paragraph 5.15 of this Practice).
• Test PT secondary circuit by applying voltage to PT secondary winding and verifying proper connection, operation of all applicable relays and associated control circuits per paragraph

5.15 of this Practice.

• Verify by functional test the operation of all relay trips, control interlocks, and annunciator actions (alarms).
• Test operation of all space heater units including switching devices.
• D.C. High potential test vacuum bottles to Manufacturer's procedures.
• Low Voltage (480/208/120 Volt) Distribution and Lighting Systems
• Equipment and Installation Check Items.
• Check transformer nameplates voltage and power ratings.
• Check panel boards nameplates voltage and current ratings.
• Check panel board circuit breaker sizes.
• Check wiring for conformance to color code and proper identification.
• Check size of conductors.
• Check conduits for proper marking.
• Check all components for required identification.
• Check all equipment items for conformance to area classification for location of items.
• Check equipment installations for proper location of seals, breathers and drains.
• Check that all panel boards have complete and accurate directory cards.
• Equipment and Installation Inspect Items
• Inspect grounding connection to transformer secondary neutral, panel board neutral bus and equipment cases.

• Inspect transformer tap connection.
• Inspect feeder circuit breaker rating.
• Inspect operation of feeder circuit breaker - operate mechanical trip option.
• Testing Requirements
• Test insulation resistance (megger) of each of the following items prior to any hookups.
• Transformer (primary to ground, secondary to ground and primary to secondary).
• Feeder wiring (each conductor to be tested phase to phase and phase to ground).
• Panel boards (each phase to be tested to ground - all CB closed).
• Test insulation resistance of systems following connections.
• Feeder and transformer primary to ground.
• Transformer secondary plus CB panel board to ground with all CB closed.
• Functional Check Items
• Check transformer tap connections following initial energization of system - check transformer secondary voltage for desired voltage level based upon expected normal operating load condition.
• Check load balance of panelboard.
• Medium Voltage Metal Enclosed Switches (ME Switches)
• Compare the disconnected switch nameplate information with the specifications.
• Inspect for installation or shipping damage, tightness, loose materials, cleanliness or other conditions that must be corrected.
• Verify the operation of the mechanical operator in accordance with the Manufacturer's recommendations.
• Check equipment grounding for proper installation and connection.
• Check blade alignment, wipe and insure it is lubricated per the Manufacturer's requirements.
• Measure the resistance of the switch blade to the stationary contact with a micro ohmmeter. Resistance shall be as specified by the switch Manufacturer.
• Verify the proper operation of all interlocks.
• D.C. high potential test the entire switch/bus assembly per the Manufacturer's instructions.
• Verify proper operation of space heaters and control device. Set thermostats per the Owner's recommendation.
• For metering, relays, and controls follow the procedures outlined in Section 5.15 and 5.16 of the Practice.
• For fused disconnect switches verify fuse nameplate to the one line diagrams and inspect the holder.
• Metal Enclosed Bus Duct
• Inspect the bus duct for physical damage and proper connection in accordance with the single line diagrams. Also check bus voltage, current rating, and short circuit ratings.

• Inspect the bus duct for cleanliness, proper bracing, suspension alignment, proper sealing, enclosure grounding, levelness of installation, proper electrical connections and installation of all required breathers/drains.
• Verify tightness of bolted power bus joints by the calibrated torque wrench method. Bus bolt torque values shall be in accordance with Manufacturer's recommendations. After bolt torques are verified test bus joint resistance with a micro-ohmmeter. Resistance of bus joints shall be in compliance with the bus duct Manufacturer's specifications.
• The insulation resistance (megger) of each bus run phase to phase and phase to ground shall be tested for a duration of one minute. The minimum acceptable values shall be in accordance with the Manufacturer's recommendations.
• Bus duct rated 600 volts and above shall have a D.C. high potential (dielectric) test performed per the requirements of ANSI C37.23 Section 6.4.2.
• Bus duct shall have a polarization index test (1 minute and 10 minute reading) with a minimum

P.I. ratio of 3. The minimum insulation resistance value shall be per the bus duct Manufacturer's recommendations.

• Verify that bus duct section enclosures have good metal to metal contact to insure a good low resistance path through the entire bus enclosure from source to load.
• Verify operation of space heaters and control devices.
• Insure that for installation with indoor and outdoor sections that the Manufacturer's barrier is installed at the transition location.
• Cable - Low Voltage (600 Volt and Less)
• Inspect exposed sections of the cables for physical damage.
• Verify that the cable is supplied and connected in accordance with the single line, schematic, and wiring diagrams. Check wire numbers for conformity with the drawings and wiremark method for compliance with the contract documents.
• Test all cables for continuity. Individually test each conductor of a multi-conductor cable.
• Test the insulation resistance of all power and control cable. Voltage shall be applied long enough to obtain a stable reading (charging current changes minimized). Minimum test voltage is 500 VDC. Minimum test values, unless specified otherwise by the cable Manufacturer, are: Power cable new >100 MOHMS, inservice >10 MOHMS; control cables new >100 MOHMS, inservice >2.5 MOHMS.
• Perform a polarization index test on each 480 V bulk power source conductor (e.g. switchrack and MCC source conductor). Minimum 10 minute to 1 minute ratio shall be 2.5 or greater (ground all conductors and cable armor not under test).
• Branch lighting circuit conductors containing lampholders and receptacles do not require an insulation test after termination. Lighting branch circuits will require only functional testing.
• Instrumentation, signal and alarm cables shall be inspected and tested in accordance with the above except that a 250 VDC device shall be used for insulation resistance testing (verify test voltage level complies with the equipment Manufacturer's recommendation).

• Check that proper (within Manufacturer's specifications) connectors, crimp tool, tapes and grounding practices are being used.
• Cables - Medium Voltage (5 KV to 34.5 KV)
• All medium voltage cable pulls/installation shall be witnessed by a qualified Owner's electrical engineer.
• Cable pulling methods, lubrication, and tensions must be measured/monitored and shall not exceed that recommended by the Manufacturer and IEEE STD 400.
• Inspect exposed sections of the cables for physical damage.
• Verify cable is supplied and connected in accordance with the single line diagrams and cable schedules. Check wire numbers for conformity with drawings. Verify cable size, type and rating.
• Inspect shield grounding, cable supports and termination (cable lug/connectors) for proper installation size and connection.
• Check visible cable bends against Manufacturer's minimum allowable bending radius.
• Test the insulation resistance (megger) of all cables while on the reels and after pulling and before splicing or terminating. After cable termination and splices are complete perform a polarization index test (1 minute and 10 minute ratio) on each conductor to ground with other two conductors and all shields grounded.
• Inspect each cable after pulling to detect any damage and ensure proper identification.
• Perform a ground wire (if supplied/installed) and shield continuity test for all shielded cables by the ohmmeter method. Also insure that metallic shields are grounded at both ends.
• Perform a direct current high-potential test for all power cable installations above 1000 volt as per IEEE STD 400 and IEEE STD 576. The test voltage shall not exceed the Manufacturer's recommendations. If IEEE conflicts with the Manufacturer's recommendations, then the Owner shall determine the required test voltage. Apply step voltages per IEEE 400 and record voltage and current at each step. Prepare exposed ends of cables and terminations to minimize corona. Guard rings, field reduction spheres or clean polyethylene film wrap are acceptable.
• During all insulation resistance and D.C. high potential tests the individual conductors of a cable assembly will be each tested with all other conductors and shields grounded.
• The cable shall not be energized until the Owner reviews and approves all cable installation and test data.
• Check adequacy of cable support systems.
• Check all stress cones to insure they are of proper style and voltage level.
• Cables in storage or cables in place without terminations and not energized must have heat shrink cable end seals installed.
• Power Transformers
• Compare transformer's and accessories' nameplate information with the specifications and drawings.

• Inspect the transformer and accessories for installation or shipping damage, loose material, shipping blocks or contamination that must be corrected.
• Inspect installation location and report any unfavorable conditions.
• Check transformer levelness and operation of doors. Check junction boxes for adequate weatherproofing.
• Check the equipment grounding to approved construction drawings.
• Check the oil in the transformer tank and bushings for proper level.
• For large power transformers remove access covers and inspect for any damage and loose materials inside of the tank that must be corrected. This shall only be done under the direct supervision of the transformer Manufacturer's representative.
• Verify proper sealing on all valves, fittings and gasketed covers. Check for oil leaks, cooling fin damage, etc.
• Verify the proper operation of all auxiliary devices such as fans, pumps, fault pressure devices, indicators, tap chargers and gas pressurization systems.
• Test the insulation resistance (megger) of all control and relay circuits to the transformer ground.
• Move no-load tap changers through all tap positions and measure the transformer turns ratio (TTR) at each position. TTR test shall be within Manufacturer's specification.
• Inspect all bushings for cleanliness, cracks or other defects
• Verify that the transformer termination sequence (ABC phase rotation and phasing) matches the sequence used throughout the facility. This should be done using a phase rotation meter and checking the transformer secondaries with existing systems.
• Make insulation power factor (Doble) test on all high and low voltage windings and bushings. Overall dielectric loss and power factor shall be determined. Power factor test results corrected to 20°F should not exceed the Doble company's recommended standard values and should also compare favorably to factory test values, if factory tested.
• Verify the operational positions of all oil shut-off valves before energizing the transformer.
• Perform additional tests specified by the Manufacturer.
• Inspect all auxiliary junction boxes and verify wire tightness, cleanliness, and correctness to drawing. Verify space heaters and control (if provided).
• Oil samples from the transformer and/or primary oil switch shall be obtained and tested per ANSI and ASTM standard methods for the following as a minimum:
• Dielectric strength (test per ASTM procedure).
• Acidity
• Interfacial tension
• Specific gravity
• Power factor
• Color
• PCB content

• Test insulation resistance of transformer windings by a ten minute dielectric absorption test. Windings shall be tested primary to ground, secondary to ground and primary to secondary. The minimum acceptable insulation resistance in megohms is eight times the voltage rating in kV and the minimum dielectric absorption ratio is three. Verify the core to tank insulation resistance with the core grounding strap disconnected. If the core grounding strap is not accessible, this test may be waved at the direction of the Owner.
• Ratio test all CT's per ANSI C57.13.1-1981. Polarity test all CT's per ANSI C57.13.1-1081 using the phase angle meter/current method (as outlined in Section 5.15 of this Practice).
• Verify proper operation of the fault pressure relay (if supplied) and associated control scheme.
• Test all temperature gauges and verify set points.
• Field test lightning arrestors per Manufacturer's instructions (if field testing is recommended by the Manufacturer).
• Inspect and verify operation of all gauges.
• Test all inert gas system gauges, reliefs and alarms.
• Instrument Transformers
• Inspect the instrument transformer for conformance with the specifications and one line and three line drawings.
• Verify mechanical clearances and the proper operation of all disconnect and grounding devices associated with potential transformers. Verify grounding of the instrument transformers to insure that only one ground is provided per device (three phase group) and it is installed at the proper location.
• Verify the proper operation of all grounding and shorting devices associated with current transformers. Prior to energization insure all PT's have the proper fuses installed and all CT's with connected secondary loads have the shorting block screws removed (CT's not connected for service must remain shorted and grounded).
• Check the polarity and ratios of all instrument type current and potential transformers with respect to the three line diagrams and the protective relay setting data sheets.
• Confirm the potential transformer ratio using a TTR test set and verify the connection of the potential transformer secondary leads.
• Insulation resistance test (megger) of CT's shall be done using a 500 volt instrument with a minimum acceptance value of one megohm (see ANSI C57.31).
• Insure all wire connections are properly marked and tight.
• Ratio and polarity check CT's as specified using the voltage method per ANSI C57.13.1 (substitution of a phase angle meter for the oscilloscope is acceptable).
• Verify the secondary connections, continuity and load device connections/operation by actual current loading/voltage application. Source application shall be at the instrument transformer. When leads are lifted after testing they shall be replaced and a complete circuit load check done again to verify complete circuit integrity.

• Protective Relays
• Inspect relays for physical damage and compliance with specifications. Check that the quantity, style and installation agrees with the drawings.
• Inspect cover gasket, cover glass, presence of foreign material, moisture, condition of spiral spring, disc clearance, rust and contacts. Inspect solid state relays for loose wires/components, defective P.C. boards, defective/loose plugs, jacks and connectors.
• A qualified (Owner approved) relay technician and/or an Owner's electrical engineer shall be the only personnel allowed to handle, inspect, or set protective relays.
• Setting/testing of protective relays shall also include verification of the CT ratio (and taps for multiratio CT's) and check out of the complete control scheme.
• Check mechanically for freedom of movement, proper travel and alignment, and tightness of mounting hardware and tap screws.
• Test, adjust and set each protective relay in accordance to the Manufacturers instructions. All set points must be approved by the Owner.
• In addition to the Manufacturer's required tests perform the following tests for the required settings:
• Pickup parameters on each operating element.
• Curve verification tests shall be performed at a minimum of 3 points on the required setting time/current curve.
• Pickup target and seal in units shall be tested and set to insure operation for the installed control circuit current.
• Special test as required to check operation of restraint, directional and other elements per manufacturer's instruction manual.
• Perform phase angle and magnitude contribution tests on all differential and directional type relays after energization to vectorially prove proper polarity and connection.
• Low Voltage Integral Protective Device (480V Switchgear)

Low voltage circuit breaker integral solid-state or electromechanical protective devices shall be tested in accordance with the Manufacturer's instructions using primary (full) current and shall include the following:

• Determine minimum pickup current by primary current injection.
• Determine long time delay by primary injection at 300% pickup current.
• Determine short time pickup and time delay by primary injection of current.
• Determine instantaneous pickup current by primary injection.
• Verify trip unit reset characteristics.
• Make protective device adjustments for final settings in accordance with the prescribed settings and verify final set points with primary current injection.
• Ground Fault Protection System (480 Volt High Resistance Systems)
• Check that the equipment nameplate information agrees with the specifications and drawings.

• Inspect the equipment for installation and shipping damage, loose materials or other conditions that must be corrected.
• Inspect the transformer neutral main connection to assure it is installed in accordance with the ground sensor requirements.
• Manually operate and verify proper operation and test sequence of monitor panels (if present) for:
• Trip test
• No trip test
• Nonautomatic reset
• Alarm operation
• Set pickup and time delay settings in accordance with the prescribed settings and the Manufacturer's instructions.
• Verify all alarms and ratings of alarm contacts to insure suitability to operate alarm functions.
• System neutral insulation resistance shall be measured and verify rating to the specifications.
• Insure continuity of the system and functionally test the entire system prior to energization.
• After energization of the 480 Volt system, apply a ground to the system (fuse the ground shorting wire with a 10 ampere fuse). With the ground on the system perform a complete check out/verification of the system including meters and alarms.
• Low Resistance Ground Resistors (Medium Voltage Systems)
• Inspect the resistor, enclosure and accessories for cleanliness and damage.
• Verify the DC insulation resistance (megger test) of the resistor stack to the protective enclosure and the resistor assembly to the system ground (with system ground attached to the frame/stand and protective enclosure). Measure the resistance of the complete resistor and verify correctness to the specifications.
• Visually check the ground circuit from the transformer neutral bushing to the ground resistor and then to the earth ground is a complete circuit.
• If CT's are provided, verify the nameplate and all connections to the junction box. Verify the CT ratio per paragraph 5.15.
• Ground System
• Equipment and Installation Items (See EP 13-15-1 for details):
• Check ground test well installation for proper accessibility to ground rods.
• Check installations for use of corrosion resistant materials.
• Check ground connections to equipment - connections to equipment anchor bolts is not permitted.
• Check installations for adequate mechanical protection of ground wire.
• Check all connections for tightness.
• Check ground grid and ground loop wire sizes and proper color identification.
• Inspect all underground splices and all exothermic welds prior to covering with soil.
• If RGS conduit is used for sleeving (protection), insure that the grounding conductor is bonded to both ends of the conduit.

• Testing Requirements
• Test each ground loop between ground test wells and/or ground terminal bars for continuity.
• Test each main ground grid for resistance to earth using the fall-of-potential method (three terminal test). All equipment grounding straps and/or other connections to ground grid shall be disconnected while performing this test system. Ground resistance to earth shall be a maximum of five (5) ohms. Individual (single) electrode resistance to ground shall be less than 25 ohms.
• Battery System
• Inspect battery and charger for shipping and installation damage.
• Inspect the battery racks and charger for proper mounting, anchorage and for support where appropriate.
• Check the equipment and system grounding per the drawings and specifications.
• Check intercell connector resistance with a micro ohm meter.
• Verify all alarm functions.
• Verify the proper installation and operation of the battery and battery charger per the Manufacturer's instructions.
• Check battery cells for proper level of electrolyte and measure the specific gravity of electrolyte; check for leaks.
• Check all cell interconnections and wiring for continuity and polarity.
• Measure system charging voltage and each individual cell voltage. Measured values shall be in accordance with Manufacturer's tolerances.
• Following the Manufacturer's instructions, take all required cell data prior to equalize, during/after equalize, and at float. Cell voltage out of tolerance after equalize shall be reported to the Owner.
• Check that cell numbers have been installed.
• Perform a load discharge test of the battery system to verify cell performance to its design specification. This test shall be done after installation equalization is completed.
• Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS)
• Install, inspect and check the UPS in accordance with the Manufacturer's instruction manual.
• Final testing will be performed by the UPS Manufacturer's representative or the Owner.
• Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS) (Low Voltage)
• Check that the automatic transfer switch (ATS) nameplate information agrees with the specifications.
• Inspect the equipment for installation or shipping damage, loose materials, or other conditions that must be corrected.
• Check equipment for levelness and operation of doors and hinged panels.
• Check equipment ground and verify compliance to the approved installation drawings.
• Inspect insulation of the bus and assemblies; torque test all bolted bus connections.
• Verify all interlocks between normal and alternate sources.

• Verify proper manual transfer operations.
• Perform insulation resistance (megger) tests phase to phase and phase to ground with switch in both source positions.
• Set and calibrate in accordance with the specifications:
• Voltage sensing relays
• Re-transfer time delay relay
• Verify phasing of power sources to insure phase continuity to the load.
• Perform automatic transfer by:
• Actual loss of normal power
• Transfer to normal power after normal power is returned.
• Monitor and verify correct operation and timing of:
• Normal voltage sensing relays
• Time delay upon transfer
• Alternate voltage sensing relays
• Automatic transfer operation
• Interlocks and limit switch function
• Timing delay and retransfer upon normal power restoration
• Alarm contacts
• Lighting System
• Equipment and installation inspection items
• Check all equipment items for conformance to the area classification for location of item.
• Check equipment installation for proper location of seals, breathers and drains.
• Check fixture installations for proper lamp size and type.
• Check circuit breaker - components for cleanness, including all seating surfaces of unplated and laminated magnet faces, remove any rust or rust preventative.
• Check control power fuses sizes, coil voltage rating, control transformer size and voltage rating.
• Check mechanical function of all circuit breaker and contactor movable parts.
• Check contactor main and auxiliary contact condition, alignment and rating.
• Check wiring for conformance to color code and proper identification.
• Check size and type of power and control wing.
• Check power and control conduits for proper marking.
• Check all components for required identification.
• Check suitability of location of photo cell.
• Inspect circuit breaker rating.
• Testing Requirements

Test insulation resistance (megger) of each lighting power conductor phase to phase and phase to ground prior to termination at the fixture.

• Function Check Items
• Function check control circuit and verify proper operation of controls and auxiliary devices.
• Check load balance of each phase.
• Heat Tracing

Inspection and testing requirements shall be in accordance with EP 13-12-1.

• Alarm, Control and Indications Functions
• Equipment and Installation Check Items
• Check equipment for conformance to area classification for location of item.
• Check equipment installation for proper location of unions, seals, drains and breather as required.
• Check wiring for conformance to color code and proper identification at all terminals.
• Check conduits for proper marking.
• Check all components for required identification.
• Testing Requirement

Function check each equipment item under simulated operations by actuating each device, either by artificial loading, connecting temporary jumpers, opening of wire circuit or manual operation of switch - verify proper operation of all auxiliary items.

• Conduit Seal Fittings
• Conduit seals shall only be poured when specifically directed by the Owner.
• Newly installed seals shall have their bodies painted yellow to show an unpoured seal. Newly installed poured seals shall be painted red following the pour.
• Prior to requesting Owner approval to pour a seal, verification must be provided to demonstrate that all wires are pulled and all circuits in the seal were verified. Check the wire schedules against the wire installed. Verify that the seal wire fill meets the fill maximum limit per the NEC and the manufacturers requirements. Operational test circuits to verify correctness.
• After receiving approval of the Owner the seal shall be poured. The poured seal shall be inspected by an Owner approved inspector. If approved the seal body shall be painted yellow at the time of pouring inspection.
• Receptacle Circuits

Equipment installation inspection items:

• Check equipment items for conformance to area classification for location of item.
• Check equipment installation for proper location of unions, seals, drains and breathers as required.
• Check wiring for proper identification and color coding.
• Check size of power conductors.
• Check conduit for proper marking.
• Check all components for required identification.
• Check circuit breaker ratings.
• Verify that all receptacles installed outdoors in the unit are protected with a GFCI per NFPA 70.
• Verify, by test, that the receptacle wiring is correct, i.e. proper location of power, neutral and ground.

• Functional/System Checkout
• After all electrical tests have been completed, all equipment/systems shall be given a complete and thorough functional checkout to determine that all systems/equipment operate as intended per drawings/instruction manuals and system operating procedures.
• Checkout may be accomplished by the use of simulated loads, temporary power, manual actuation, jumpers, simulated signals etc. However, the use of any simulated or non- operational devices/sources shall only be done with approval of the Owner.

© 2026 Inflection Point Engineering, LLC. All rights reserved.