MPC-20 MPC-50 Indirect Earth Simulator Manual

STEP AND TOUCH VOLTAGE TESTER
GROUND RESISTANCE
TESTER
MPC-20
MPC-50
(20 A) code 7 70 123

(50 A) code 7 70 075
INSTRUCTION MANUAL
( M98113601-20 / 03A )
(c) CIRCUTOR
S.A.
--- MPC 20 & 50 TESTER - M-981136 (vers. BD)
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Page 2
1.1.1
1.2
MPC-20 - MPC-50 .................................................................... 4

Usual operating procedure
4
Precautions whilst operating
5
2.2.1
2.2
2.3
2.4
2.5
DESCRIPTION OF THE MAIN COMPONENTS ......................................

Source of regulated voltage
Control and protection circuit
Voltage and current tester
Touch electrodes
Accessories
6
6
6
6
6
6
3.3.1
3.2
3.3
CONTROL AND CONNECTION FEATURES OF THE MPC-20 / MPC-50 ....

Control Components
External connection components
Internal connection components
7
7
7
8
4.MAIN FEATURES .............................................................................

4.1.Power supply
4.2.Dimensions, weight:
5.1.1
Attaching the equipment
4.3.1
Features as a step and touch voltage tester. MPC-20 TESTER
Features as a step and touch voltage tester. MPC-50 TESTER
4.3.2
4.4.Features as an ground resistance tester
10
10
14
14
14
14
16
16
17
18
18
5.10
TESTING STEP OR CONTACT VOLTAGE ............................................

Installation and start-up
Attaching the MPC-20 / MPC-50
Auxiliary ground for current injection
Connecting the current circuit
Connecting the power supply
Setting the maximum default current
Attaching the testing electrodes
Button for testing erratic currents
Adjusting the current and testing the
STEP or TOUCH VOLTAGE
Test results
6.6.1
6.2
6.3
6.4
6.5
6.6
TESTING GROUND RESISTANCE .....................................................

Attaching and connecting the MPC-20 / MPC-50
Attaching the "MEASURING ROD"
Testing erratic voltages
Testing ground resistance
Test results
Repeating tests
21
22
22
22
22
23
24
5.5.1
5.2
5.3
5.4
5.5
5.6
5.7
5.8
5.9
14
11
12
13
19
20
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Page 3
CHAPTER II
7.7.1
7.2
EXISTING STANDARDS ...................................................................

Abstract and table of voltages
Standards relating to the MPC-20 / MPC-50
25
25
26
8.9.10.-
CORRECTION OF THE READ OUTS ..........................................................

MAINTENANCE ...............................................................................
TECHNICAL SERVICE .....................................................................
27
29
29
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Page 4
MPC-20 & MPC-50

1.- PRELIMINARY WARNINGS:
1.1.- USUAL OPERATING PROCEDURE
The MPC-20 and MPC-50 testers are compact and robust and are
designed to test where large powers are needed for a short period of time:
- MPC-20: up to 12 kVA
- MPC-50: up to 20 kVA
Its microprocessor controlled testing system ensures that tests are made
in approximately 10 seconds.
Its portability means that weight has been kept to a minimum with the
use of minimal loss toroidal transformers.
Heat generated by the transformer windings is continuously eliminated
by an in-built ventilation system. It is able to operate indefinitely, making 12 sec.
tests at 40 sec. intervals. If for any reason it overheats, a red indicator light will
show why and will prevent it from operating until normal temperature is reestablished.
1.2.-
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Page 5
WARNINGS!
THE CURRENT USED FOR MEASUREMENTS, 20 A with the MPC20 and 50 A in the MPC-50, IS SUFFICIENT TO CREATE SIGNIFICANT
VOLTAGES AROUND THE ELECTRODES, ESPECIALLY THE AUXILIARY
ELECTRODES.
PLEASE TAKE ALL NECESSARY PRECAUTIONS TO AVOID
ACCIDENTS.
For example: A 5 Ohms auxiliary electrode creates a voltage of 250 V around
itself.
VOLTAGE MAY REACH 600 V AROUND THE CABLE OUTPUT with the
MPC-20 and 400 V with the MPC-50.
THE POWER CIRCUIT CONNECTIONS MUST NEVER BE

HANDLED WITHOUT HAVING FIRST STOPPED THE EQUIPMENT AND
REMOVED THE OPERATING KEY.
BEFORE ANY MEASUREMENTS ARE TAKEN, SIGNS MUST

PREVENT PEOPLE FROM PASSING THROUGH OR REMAINING IN THE
INJECTED CURRENT AREA. IN THE EVENT OF HIGH GROUND
RESISTANCES, VOLTAGES UP TO 600 V MAY BE CREATED, WHICH ARE
FATAL TO ANIMALS OR PERSONS NEAR TO THE DISPERSERS DURING
TESTS.
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Page 6
2.- DESCRIPTION OF THE MAIN COMPONENTS

2.1.- VOLTAGE SOURCE
MPC-20: voltage source, with 10 regulating scales using a switch and
fine adjustment using a dial. Supplies a regulable voltage between 0 and 600 V
and is set for a current of 20 A. It can test to 20 A in installations with a 30
Ohms resistance (ground and auxiliary added).
MPC-50: voltage source, with 8 regulating scales using a switch and fine
adjustment using a dial. Supplies a regulable voltage between 0 and 400 V and
is set for a current of 50 A. It can test to 50 A in installations with a 8 Ohms
resistance (ground and auxiliary added).
The remaining components are the same in each:
2.2.- CONTROL AND PROTECTION CIRCUIT
Button for testing erratic currents. Two directional selector key to control the
current injection (0 and 180): Line voltage indicator. Over heating indicator.
Fuse protection for the operating circuit Protective circuit breakers for all the
equipment and for the output circuit.
2.3.- VOLTAGE AND CURRENT TESTER, controlled by micro-processor. It
test and also calculates Vp, Vc and Rt. The alphanumeric liquid crystal display
shows preset data, measurements and calculations.
2.4.- TOUCH ELECTRODES, that are cylindrical, 200 square cm at the base
and weigh 250 N, with carrying handles and terminals for connecting the testing
cables.
2.5.- ACCESSORIES. 50 metre cables, 10 mm in diameter with terminals for
current injection. 50 metre cables for voltage reading. Bridging cable to join the
two touch electrodes.
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Page 7
3.- CONTROL AND CONNECTION COMPONENTS OF THE MPC-20 & MPC-50

3.1.- CONTROL ELEMENTS
1
VOLTAGE OUTPUT SWITCH

MPC-20: FROM 1 TO 10
MPC-50: FROM 1 TO 8
Switch
Position
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
MPC-20
0 to 60 V
0 to 120 V
20 to 180 V
180 to 240 V
240 to 300 V
300 to 360 V
360 to 420 V
420 to 480 V
480 to 540 V
540 to 600 V
MPC-50
0 to 50 V
50 to 100 V
100 to 150 V
150 to 200 V
200 to 250 V
250 to 300 V
300 to 350 V
350 to 400 V
FINE REGULATION CONTROL (according to previous table)

RED TEMPERATURE INDICATOR
RED SYSTEM VOLTAGE INDICATING LIGHT
ANALOGUE AMMETER FOR ADJUSTMENT AND ASSISTANCE
GENERAL AND OUTPUT CIRCUIT BREAKER
SELECTOR WITH KEY OPERATE THE TEST
LIQUID QUARTZ DISPLAY
3 BUTTONS TO PRESET Imax VALUE
BUTTON TO SELECT OPERATING MODE (Vp/c or Rt)
BUTTON FOR ERRATIC VOLTAGE MEASUREMENTS
999
ENTER MODE
3.2.- EXTERNAL CONNECTION COMPONENTS

12 OUTPUT TERMINALS: MAX 50 A, MAX 600 V
13 VOLTAGE INPUT TERMINALS TO THE VOLTMETER
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Page 8
3.3.- INTERNAL CONNECTION COMPONENTS

MPC-20:
30 AND 31 SINGLE PHASE POWER SUPPLY: 230 V
T.T TERMINAL WITH OBLIGATORY EARTHING CONNECTION
MPC-50:
30 AND 32 SINGLE PHASE POWER SUPPLY: 400 V
30 AND 31 SINGLE PHASE POWER SUPPLY: 230 V (EXCEPTIONAL)
T.T TERMINAL WITH OBLIGATORY EARTHING CONNECTION
SIZE:
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Page 9
Control panel:
Vm
VOLTAGE
INPUT
ENTRADA
TENSION
CIRCUIT
PILOTO TERMICO
BREAKER LIGHT
OUTPUT
1 TO 8 DE
CONMUTADOR
SALIDAS 1 AL 8
SWITCH
SYSTEM
LIGHT
PILOTO RED
50
0
GENERAL
SWITCH
INT. GENERAL
AMMETER
AMPERIMETRO
ERRATICS
ERRATICAS
999-> 999 ENTER ESC
0 OFF 180
RT-VPC
(KEY)
(LLAVE)
DISPLAY
---
4.- MAIN FEATURES

4.1.- POWER SUPPLY
POWER SUPPLY
MPC-20
MPC-50
VOLTAGE
230 10 %
SINGLE PHASE
400 10 %
SINGLE PHASE
230 V exception
50 / 60 Hz
FREQUENCY
50 / 60 Hz
MAXIMUM CURRENT
54 A
57 A to 400 V
(95 A to 230 V)
CIRCUIT BREAKER
POWER SUPPLY CABLE
MAXIMUM POWER
100 A
2 X 10 + 6 T.T.
12 kVA
100 A
2 x 16 + 16 T.T.
20 kVA
4.2.- SIZES AND WEIGHT

SIZES:
HEIGHT
WIDTH
LENGTH
WEIGHT:
800 mm
550 mm
500 mm
142 Kg WITHOUT ELECTRODES
ELECTRODE SIZES:
HEIGHT
DIAMETER
210 mm APPROX.
160 mm APPROX.
WEIGHT:
25.5 Kg EACH
Page 10
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Page 11
4.3.- TESTING STEP AND CONTACT VOLTAGE

4.3.1.- MPC-20 TESTER
CURRENT
OVERVOLTAGE
VOLTAGE
0 20 A REGULABLE
1, 1 In, 1 Min
0 600 V,
10 SCALES AND FINE ADJUSTMENT
MAX. RESISTANCE
30 OHMS (GROUND TESTED + AUXILIARY

GROUND)
RESISTANCE OF
HIGHER VALUES
METHOD USED
ALLOWS TESTING AT LOWER CURRENTS
ANALOGUE AMMETER
DIGITAL AMMETER
DIGITAL VOLTMETER
MAX. PROGRAMMABLE
CURRENT VALUE
SELECTION OPERATING
MODE (Vp/c or Rt)
DEFAULT CURRENT
PRESELECTION
TESTING ERRATIC
VOLTAGES
CONTROL OF STOP AND
START
INJECTION AND TESTING OF CURRENT

(Ip)
TESTING VOLTAGE IN SURFACE AREA
(Vm)
DEFAULT SETTING Imax
CALCULATES: Vp/c=Vm xMax/Ip
CLASS: 1.5
RANGE: 20 A
CONTROLLED BY MICROPROCESSOR
ACCURACY: 0.5 % MEASUREMENTS 2
digits
MAX.
: 99.9 A
RESOLUTION
: 10 mA
MINIMUM READING : 20 mA
SCALES
: 30 V and 600 V
SCALE CHANGE
: AUTOMATIC
digits
MINIMUM READING : 20 mV
IMPEDANCE CUR. : 1000 ohms or 600
kohms (switch)
RESOLUTION
: 10 mV
9999 A
BY BUTTON (MODE) + Rt/Vp-c Selector
BY BUTTONS
VOLTMETER CONTROL BY BUTTON
BY SELECTOR WITH KEY:
ON 0--- OFF --- ON 180
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Page 12
4.3.2.- TESTING STEP AND CONTACT VOLTAGE: MPC-50 TESTER

CURRENT
OVERVOLTAGE
VOLTAGE
MAX. RESISTANCE
RESISTANCE OF
HIGHER VALUES
METHOD USED
ANALOGUE AMMETER
DIGITAL AMMETER
DIGITAL VOLTMETER
MAX PROGRAMMABLE
CURRENT VALUE
SELECTION WORK
MODE (Vp/c or Rt)
DEFAULT CURRENT
PRESELECTION
TESTING ERRATIC
VOLTAGES
CONTROL OF STOP AND
START
0 50 A REGULABLE
1, 1 In, 1 Min
0 400 V,
8 SCALES AND FINE ADJUSTMENT
8 OHMS (GROUND TESTED + AUXILIARY
GROUND)
ALLOWS TESTING AT LOWER CURRENTS
(Ip)
TESTING VOLTAGE IN SURFACE AREA
(Vm)
DEFAULT SETTING Imax
CALCULATES: Vp/c=Vm x Max/Ip
CLASS
: 1.5
RANGE
: 50 A
OVERRANGE
: 300 A
digits
MAX.
: 99.9 A
RESOLUTION
: 10 mA
: 30 V and 500 V
SCALES
SCALE CHANGE
: AUTOMATIC
digits
IMPEDANCE CUR. : 1000 ohms or 600
kohms (switch)
RESOLUTION
: 10 mV
9999 A
BY BUTTONS
BY SELECTOR WITH KEY
ON 0-- OFF --- ON 180
4.4.- TESTING GROUND RESISTANCES

(USING CURRENTS UP TO 20 A or 50 A)
METHOD USED
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Page 13

MPC-20 : 0 20 A
MPC-50 : 0 50 A
TESTING VOLTAGE
BETWEEN GROUND AND NEUTRAL AREA

(Vm)
CALCULATES: Rt.=Vm/Ip
ELECTRODES NEEDED GROUND TO MEASURE

DISTANT AUX ELECTRODE
"ROD" ELECTRODE FOR TAKING
VOLTAGE
MAXIMUM ERROR
DIGITAL AMMETER
DIGITAL VOLTMETER
SELECTION WORK
MODE (Vp/c or Rt)
TESTING ERRATIC
VOLTAGES
CONTROL OF STOP
AND START
3 % OF MEASUREMENTS 2 digits
digits
: 99.9 A
MAX.
RESOLUTION
: 10 mA
RANGES
: 30 V and 500 V
RANGE CHANGE : AUTOMATIC
ACCURACY: 0.5 % MEASUREMENTS
2 digits
IMPEDANCE CUR. : 600 kohms
: 10 mV
RESOLUTION
BY SELECTOR WITH KEY
ON 0-- OFF --- ON 180
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Page 14
5.- TESTING STEP OR CONTACT VOLTAGE
5.3.- INSTALLATION AND START-UP

This manual contains information and warnings that must be followed by the
user to ensure the safe operation of the equipment and to maintain it in a safe
condition.
Usual operation must not be started until the final assembly of the cables
and weights, as recommended in section 1.2.- Connection instructions of this
manual.
If the equipment is used in a way not specified by the manufacturer, the
protection of the equipment and the people operating it may be
compromised.
When it is likely that there has been a loss of safety (e.g. when damage is
visible), the equipment must be disconnected from the power supply. In the
event please contact a qualified service representative.
5.4.- ATTACHING THE MPC-20/ MPC-5
To test correctly, the MPC-20 or the MPC-50 must be placed 20 or more
metres from the ground to be tested. Do not place it in the area occupied by the
electrodes in the ground.
5.5.- AUXILIARY GROUND FOR CURRENT INJECTION
There must be auxiliary ground for current injecting 50 or more metres away
from the ground to be tested Resistance between the auxiliary ground added to
the ground to be measured must not exceed 8 ohms for the MPC-50 and 30
Ohms for the MPC-20.
-----------------------------------------------------------------
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Page 15
DIAGRAM FOR TESTING STEP VOLTAGE
1 metre
Tested
voltage
GROUND
TO BE
TESTED
L (minimum 20
metres)
Test intensity lp
AUXILIARY
GROUND
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
DIAGRAM FOR TESTING CONTACT VOLTAGE
Metal parts
L (minimum 20 metres)
Tested
voltage
GROUND
TO BE
TESTED
L (minimum 20
metres)
Test intensity lp
AUXILIARY
GROUND
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Page 16
5.6.- CONNECTING THE CURRENT CIRCUIT
ENSURE THAT THE SELECTOR (ON-OFF-ON) ON THE

MPC-20 & MPC-50 IS DISCONNECTED AND WITHOUT THE KEY.
Connect the "OUTPUT CABLES": to the ground to be measured and the
other to the auxiliary ground.
5.7.- CONNECTING THE POWER SUPPLY
5.7.1.- POWER SUPPLY FOR THE MPC-20:
Connect the supply cable to a 230 V II+TT system or an independent
generator with the same VOLTAGE.
5.7.2.- POWER SUPPLY FOR THE MPC-50:
Connect the supply cable to a 400 V II+TT system or an independent
generator with the same VOLTAGE (As an exception the MPC-50 may be
connected to 230 V).
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Page 17
5.8.- SETTING THE MAXIMUM DEFAULT CURRENT

Once the connections described above have been made and after taking
SAFETY MEASURES, testing can be done in the following way:
Place the regulator on the "0%" position.
Place the Voltage switch on position "1".
CONNECT THE MPC SWITCH. The model type and the version of the
setting will appear on the display.
Place the "OPERATING MODE" selector on "V p/c".
(Connect the 1000 Ohms resistance switch located on the back of the
equipment: voltmeter internal impedance of 1000 ).
PRESS the upper right "MODE" button (operating mode) and the display is
ready to start testing voltage ("V") or resistance ("Rt"). Use the said button to
select "V" on the display.
MAXIMUM CURRENT must be entered as preset in the installation
procedure. The value in A of the maximum current must be entered as a testing
constant. This value must be supplied by the electricity supply company
according to MIE-RAT-19.
Using the 3 buttons above the display, (, and Enter), SET THE
MAXIMUM DEFAULT CURRENT (maximum 9999):
a.- To enter setting, press () . The first lx digit will flash.
b.- To enter or change this value press ( ) repeatedly: the digit flashing
at that time will increase.
c.- When the required value appears on the screen move on to the next
digit by pressing (), and so on changing the remaining values.
d.- To enter press (Enter) button.
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Page 18
5.9.- ATTACHING THE TESTING ELECTRODES

- Attach the touch electrodes (25 kg weights) in a suitable place to start
testing:
STEP VOLTAGE
Attach the two touch electrodes 1 metre apart and near to the ground to be
tested. Each electrode are joined by a different cable from the voltmeter.
TOUCH VOLTAGE
Attach the two electrodes together 1 metre from the vertical of the tested
object, both connected by a single cable from the voltmeter. The other
voltmeter cable is connected to the tested object with a crocodile clip.
NUMBER OF TESTS
To ensure that there are no dangerous step or touch voltages, it is
necessary to take many measurements within the test area as well as on
neighbouring land. To do this, it is useful to have a plan of the installation with
distances of 1 metre marked on it.
Whilst testing touch voltage, one must be aware of the possible transmission of
dangerous voltages away from the ground electrode via long metallic structures
(metal fences, pipes, rails etc). Testing must be done further away from these
conductive devices.
5.10.- TESTING VOLTAGES DUE TO STATIC CURRENTS

Prior to starting, press the "ERRATIC VOLTAGES" button (keeping it
pressed down).
If the Vm value remains at 0 V the presence of erratic voltages and
currents will be ruled out. If any value appears, it must be noted to
subsequently compare it with the 20 A and 50 A measurements and to
make the appropriate numerical corrections).
(See section 8 "CORRECTING READ OUTS").
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Page 19
5.11.- ADJUSTING THE CURRENT AND TESTING OF STEP OR TOUCH

VOLTAGE
Turn the key in one of the two directions and keep it there.
BEFORE TURNING THE SELECTOR MAKE SURE THAT NO ONE IS
USING THE POWER OR TESTING CIRCUIT. PREVENT PEOPLE
REMAINING OR PASSING THROUGH THE AREA WHERE THE CURRENT
IS TO BE INJECTED BY USING THE APPROPRIATE SIGNS. IN THE EVENT
OF HIGH GROUND RESISTANCES, VOLTAGES UP TO 600 V MAY BE
CREATED, WHICH ARE FATAL TO ANIMALS OR PERSONS NEAR TO THE
DISPERSERS DURING TESTS.
Adjust the current to 20 A with the MPC-20 and 50 A or slightly higher
for the MPC-50:
FINE REGULATOR:
Starting with the switch on position "1", slowly turn the fine regulator towards
the right (from 0% to 100%). To find out the current being injected, the needle
on the analogue ammeter is the guide at first and then the read out lp. on the
digital indicator.
SWITCHING SCALES:
If the nominal current is not reached, even with the regulator on 100%, it will
then be necessary to increase the switch regulation by one scale.
Adjustments are done by trial and error between the different regulation
scales, starting with the lowest: 1 to 10 on the MPC-20 and from 1 to 8 on the
MPC-50. Switching from one scale to another is always done off line, i.e.
without turning the selector key and placing the regulator in the 0% position.
Voltage testing will be done AUTOMATICALLY at the same time as
the MPC-20 or MPC-50 are adjusted with the operating key. (The voltmeter
begins testing when the key is turned and blocks measurements when the key
is no longer turned.)
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Page 20
READ TESTED VOLTAGE (V) on the display.

Note: If the read out on the display is less than 30 V the internal scale is
automatically changed to 30 V AC.
DISENGAGE THE OPERATION SELECTOR. Once the test has
finished the values remain displayed until the key is turned again, the
equipment is switched off or the Imax value is set again.
5.12.- TEST RESULTS (THAT WILL REMAIN DISPLAYED)
Real current
of the test made
Maximum current
default theory
Im. NN,N
I x.
NNNN
Voltage tested
during the test
Vm. NN,N
NNNNN
STEP VOLTAGE (Vp)
TOUCH VOLTAGE (Vc)
Calculated voltage
default theory
(step or touch)
Vm x Ix
V = -------------------Im
Vm x Ix
V = --------------------Im
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6.- TESTING GROUND RESISTANCE

The main advantage of testing ground resistance using high currents is
that as well as being measured, the ground is also being tested to see if it is
capable of accepting such a current. By doing it this way, one avoids errors of
measurement from low currents due to, for example, surface moisture or a
highly corroded cable or one with defective lining.
CONNECTION DIAGRAM
TESTING GROUND RESISTANCE
TESTING
ROD
AUXILIARY
GROUND
GROUND TO
BE TESTED
TESTED
VOLTAGE
TEST INTENSITY lp
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Page 22
6.3.- ATTACHING AND CONNECTING THE MPC-20 or MPC-50

The "OPERATING MODE" selector must be placed on Rt.
Attaching and connecting the MPC to the system is the same as that
for testing step and touch voltage.
Connecting the current circuit using the two output sockets is also the
same.
6.4.- ATTACHING THE MEASURING ROD
One of the voltmeter cables is connected to the ground to be
measured.
The other voltmeter cable is connected to the GROUND using the
"MEASURING ROD" in an area in between the ground to be measured and the
auxiliary ground.
6.5.- TESTING VOLTAGES DUE TO ERRATIC CURRENTS
Prior to starting, press the "ERRATIC VOLTAGES" button (keeping it
pressed down).
If the Vm value remains at 0 V the presence of erratic voltages and
currents will be ruled out. If any value appears, it must be noted to be
subsequently compared with the 20 A and 50 A measurements and the
appropriate numerical corrections made).
(See section 8 "CORRECTING READ OUTS").
6.6.- TESTING GROUND RESISTANCE
If testing has to be done at 20 A (MPC-20) or at 50 A (MPC-50),
adjustments are made according to section 11.3.2.
If testing has to be done with currents below 20 A or 50 A respectively,
the adjustment is also done by trial and error between the different regulation
scales starting with the lowest (1, 2, 3, ...). Switching from one scale to another
is always done off line, i.e. without turning the selector key (according to
section 11.3.2.).
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Page 23
Measurements are taken automatically on turning the key (the

voltmeter and the ammeter begin testing on turning the key and block
measurements when the key is no longer turned).
BEFORE TURNING THE SELECTOR MAKE SURE THAT NO ONE
IS USING THE POWER OR TESTING CIRCUIT.
READ TESTED VOLTAGE (V) on the display.
Note: If the read out on the display is less than 30 V the internal scale is
automatically changed to 30 V AC.
DISENGAGE THE OPERATION SELECTOR Once the test has
finished the values remain displayed until the key is turned again, the
equipment is switched off or the equipment is disconnected.
The MPC-5 will automatically calculate resistance and store the
results.
6.7.- MEASUREMENT RESULTS (THAT WILL REMAIN DISPLAYED)
Real current
of the test made
Im. NN,N
Rt :
Voltage tested
during the test
Vm. NN,N
NNN.N
Calculated ground
resistance
Rt.= Vm./Im.
Ensure that the measuring electrode is actually testing the voltage drop in
the ground that is being tested which is a consequence of the current injected
by the MPC itself. Placing the measuring electrode in the right position is vital. It
is important that it is far from the area under the influence of both the
measuring electrode and the auxiliary electrode to obtain maximum accuracy.
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Page 24
6.8.- REPEATING TESTS

Ensure that the measuring electrode is actually testing the voltage drop in
the ground that is being tested which is a consequence of the current injected
by the MPC itself. Placing the measuring electrode in the right position is vital. It
is important that it is far from the area under the influence of both the
measuring electrode and the auxiliary electrode to obtain maximum accuracy.
It is advised that the measuring rod is moved +10% and then -10% from its
starting position along the axis formed by the earthing and the auxiliary
electrode separated by a distance L (if its position L=20 metres, it is to be
moved 2 metres from its original position). Make a note of the resistance value
for each position of the rod. If the values are the same or vary slightly the
measurement is correct. On the other hand if it is within the area influenced by
the two power slopes. The distance between the ground to be measured and
the auxiliary ground has to be increased.
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Page 25
CHAPTER II
7.- EXISTING STANDARDS
7.3.- SUMMARY OF HIGH VOLTAGE REGULATIONS
The Technical Complementary instruction MIE-RAT-13 published in the
B.O.E. (Official State Gazette) 183 of 1st August 1984, section 1.1. sets the
maximum admissible step and touch voltages for EARTHING
INSTALLATIONS.
In sections 8.1 and 8.2 it establishes the requirement to verify that the
step and touch voltages are within the admissible limits. It establishes the
requirement for periodical checking every 3 years as a maximum. It lays down
that the measuring electrodes that simulate feet must have a surface area of
200 square cm each and that they each have a downward force onto the
ground of 250 N.
STEP VOLTAGE
-The voltage that can occur between the feet of somebody standing one
step away whilst the installation is operating" (I.E.C. standard 11-8, sec.176).
TOUCH VOLTAGE
-The voltage that a human body may experience whilst in contact with
housings and metallic structures that normally do not carry voltages.
MAXIMUM ADMISSIBLE VOLTAGES
- Maximum admissible step and touch voltages in a certain installation,
(B.O.E. 291 5-12-87), are determined by the following summarised formulae:
10 K
Vp = -------------tn
K
Vc = ----------tn
Being:
K=72 and n=1 for times less than 0.9 s.
K=78.5 and n=0.18 for times between 0.9 and 3 s.
t = length of the fault in seconds.
For times between 3 and 5 seconds the touch voltage will not exceed 64
V and the step voltage 640 V.
For times above 5 seconds touch voltage will not exceed 50 V and step
voltage 500 V.
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Page 26
SUMMARY TABLE OF MAXIMUM VOLTAGES

TIME
Over 5 s
From 3 to 5 s
2s
1s
0.9 s
0.7 s
0.5 s
0.2 s
0.1 s or less
MAXIMUM STEP
VOLTAGE
500 V *
640 V
690 V
785 V
800 V
1020 V
1440 V
3600 V
7200 V
VOLTAGE TOUCH
VOLTAGE
50 V
64 V
69 V
78.5 V
80 V
102 V
144 V
360 V
720 V
* Supposes that the real step voltage on the human body is less than that
measured (shoes, etc.).
7.4.- STANDARDS REFERRING TO THE MPC-20 / MPC-50
MIE-RAT-01
MIE-RAT-13
MIE-RAT-19
BOE 183 1st August 1984
BOE 291 5th December 1987
---
Page 27
8.- CORRECTING THE READ OUTS

Results from testing touch or step voltages may be incorrect due to the
existence of erratic, vagabond or parasite currents passing through the ground.
The B.O.E. 291, of 5 of December of 1987 establishes:
1.1.12 "... unless a test method is used that eliminates the effect (in testing)
of these parasite currents, e.g. polarity inversion, it will mean that the injected
current will be 1% of the current set for the installation and will not be less than
50 A for stations and substations and 5 A for transforming stations."
As a result of currents not indicated by the B.O.E. being used, it will be
necessary to use phase inversion for testing.
It is also found that in practice, the tested erratic voltages are always
negligible in terms of those created by injected currents (as long as they
conform to the set minimum).
However, in certain cases it will be possible to do a pretest on existing
voltages without injecting a current. To do this tests by pressing "Erratic
voltages" are done. Only when measurements of erratic voltages are above
10% of measurements with current injection, the following calculation must be
made:
Vp =
(V 0 )2 + (V 180 )2
(Ve )2
2
Vp
= Step or touch voltage
Ve
= Voltage tested "ERRATIC VOLTAGES"
V0 = Voltage tested "ON 0"
V180 = Voltage tested "ON 180"
---
Page 28
DERIVATION OF THE FORMULA FOR STEP AND CONTACT VOLTAGE
The following equations are derived from the graph:
V 12 = (Vp + Ve sen )2 + (Ve cos )2

V 2 2 = (Vp Ve sen )2 + (Ve cos )2
Developing the equations:
V 12 = Vp 2 + 2Vp Ve sen + Ve 2 sen 2 + Ve 2 cos 2
V 2 2 = Vp 2 2Vp Ve sen + Ve 2 sen 2 + Ve 2 cos 2
If the two equations are added, we have to:

V 12 + V 2 2 = 2Vp 2 + 2Ve 2 (sen 2 + cos 2 ) = 2Vp 2 + 2Ve 2
Solving Vp: Vp =
(V 1)2 + (V 2 )2
(Ve )2
2
V1 = read voltage on injecting current at 0

V2 = read voltage on injecting current at 180
Ve = read voltage without injecting current
---
Page 29
9.- MAINTENANCE
The MPC does not require specialised maintenance. As far as possible

avoid any adjustment, maintenance or repairs when the equipment is open. If
this is unavoidable it must be done by qualified personnel or technicians well
informed of the procedure to follow.
Before any modification to the connections, replacement, maintenance or
repair, the equipment must be disconnected from the supply.
If any operating fault or equipment protection fault is suspected, the
equipment must be taken out of service ensuring that no accidental
reconnection may occur. The equipment is designed to have any of its
components replaced quickly in the event of breakdown.
10.- TECHNICAL SERVICE
In the event of any equipment failure or any operational queries please

contact the technical service of CIRCUTOR S.A.
CIRCUTOR S.A. - After sales service
c / Lepanto , 49
08223 - TERRASSA
tel - (+34) 93 - 745 29 00
e-mail: central@circutor.es
---
APPENDIX
MPC-50 INTERNAL TERMINAL BOARD
CHANGING
CAMBIO DE
VOLTAGE
TENSIN
OPERATING
FUSIBLE
FUSE
MANIOBRA
400 V
230 V
CHANGE OF VOLTAGE:
- Attach the voltage bridge in the required position
- Attach the indicating tag on the external supply cable
Page 30

MPC-20 MPC-50 Indirect Earth Simulator Manual

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MPC-20 MPC-50 Indirect Earth Simulator Manual

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STEP AND TOUCH VOLTAGE TESTER

(20 A) code 7 70 123

--- MPC 20 & 50 TESTER - M-981136 (vers. BD)

MPC-20 - MPC-50 .................................................................... 4

DESCRIPTION OF THE MAIN COMPONENTS ......................................

CONTROL AND CONNECTION FEATURES OF THE MPC-20 / MPC-50 ....

4.MAIN FEATURES .............................................................................

TESTING STEP OR CONTACT VOLTAGE ............................................

TESTING GROUND RESISTANCE .....................................................

--- MPC 20 & 50 TESTER - M-981136 (vers. BD)

EXISTING STANDARDS ...................................................................

CORRECTION OF THE READ OUTS ..........................................................

--- MPC 20 & 50 TESTER - M-981136 (vers. BD)

MPC-20 & MPC-50

--- MPC 20 & 50 TESTER - M-981136 (vers. BD)

THE POWER CIRCUIT CONNECTIONS MUST NEVER BE

BEFORE ANY MEASUREMENTS ARE TAKEN, SIGNS MUST

--- MPC 20 & 50 TESTER - M-981136 (vers. BD)

2.- DESCRIPTION OF THE MAIN COMPONENTS

--- MPC 20 & 50 TESTER - M-981136 (vers. BD)

3.- CONTROL AND CONNECTION COMPONENTS OF THE MPC-20 & MPC-50

VOLTAGE OUTPUT SWITCH

FINE REGULATION CONTROL (according to previous table)

3.2.- EXTERNAL CONNECTION COMPONENTS

--- MPC 20 & 50 TESTER - M-981136 (vers. BD)

3.3.- INTERNAL CONNECTION COMPONENTS

--- MPC 20 & 50 TESTER - M-981136 (vers. BD)

999-> 999 ENTER ESC

--- MPC 20 & 50 TESTER - M-981136 (vers. BD)

4.- MAIN FEATURES

4.2.- SIZES AND WEIGHT

--- MPC 20 & 50 TESTER - M-981136 (vers. BD)

4.3.- TESTING STEP AND CONTACT VOLTAGE

30 OHMS (GROUND TESTED + AUXILIARY

ALLOWS TESTING AT LOWER CURRENTS

INJECTION AND TESTING OF CURRENT

--- MPC 20 & 50 TESTER - M-981136 (vers. BD)

4.3.2.- TESTING STEP AND CONTACT VOLTAGE: MPC-50 TESTER

4.4.- TESTING GROUND RESISTANCES

--- MPC 20 & 50 TESTER - M-981136 (vers. BD)

INJECTION AND TESTING OF CURRENT

BETWEEN GROUND AND NEUTRAL AREA

ELECTRODES NEEDED GROUND TO MEASURE

--- MPC 20 & 50 TESTER - M-981136 (vers. BD)

5.- TESTING STEP OR CONTACT VOLTAGE

5.3.- INSTALLATION AND START-UP

--- MPC 20 & 50 TESTER - M-981136 (vers. BD)

DIAGRAM FOR TESTING STEP VOLTAGE

DIAGRAM FOR TESTING CONTACT VOLTAGE

--- MPC 20 & 50 TESTER - M-981136 (vers. BD)

5.6.- CONNECTING THE CURRENT CIRCUIT

ENSURE THAT THE SELECTOR (ON-OFF-ON) ON THE

--- MPC 20 & 50 TESTER - M-981136 (vers. BD)

5.8.- SETTING THE MAXIMUM DEFAULT CURRENT

--- MPC 20 & 50 TESTER - M-981136 (vers. BD)

5.9.- ATTACHING THE TESTING ELECTRODES

5.10.- TESTING VOLTAGES DUE TO STATIC CURRENTS

--- MPC 20 & 50 TESTER - M-981136 (vers. BD)

5.11.- ADJUSTING THE CURRENT AND TESTING OF STEP OR TOUCH

--- MPC 20 & 50 TESTER - M-981136 (vers. BD)

READ TESTED VOLTAGE (V) on the display.

STEP VOLTAGE (Vp)

TOUCH VOLTAGE (Vc)

--- MPC 20 & 50 TESTER - M-981136 (vers. BD)