CP CU1

Getting Started
CP CU1 Getting Started

Manual Version: ENU 1030 03 01

© OMICRON electronics GmbH 2018. All rights reserved.
This manual is a publication of OMICRON electronics GmbH.
All rights including translation reserved. Reproduction of any kind, for example, photocopying,
microfilming, optical character recognition and/or storage in electronic data processing systems,
requires the explicit consent of OMICRON. Reprinting, wholly or in part, is not permitted.
The product information, specifications, and technical data embodied in this manual represent the
technical status at the time of writing and are subject to change without prior notice.
We have done our best to ensure that the information given in this manual is useful, accurate and entirely
reliable. However, OMICRON does not assume responsibility for any inaccuracies which may be
present.
The user is responsible for every application that makes use of an OMICRON product.
OMICRON translates this manual from the source language English into a number of other languages.
Any translation of this manual is done for local requirements, and in the event of a dispute between the
English and a non-English version, the English version of this manual shall govern.

2 OMICRON
 Safety instructions

1 Safety instructions
1.1 Operator qualifications
Working on overhead lines is extremely dangerous. Testing and measuring with the CP CU1 must be
carried out only by qualified, skilled and authorized personnel. Before starting to work, clearly establish
the responsibilities.
Personnel receiving training, instructions, directions, or education on the CP CU1 must be under
constant supervision of an experienced operator while working with the equipment.

1.2 Safety standards and rules

1.2.1 Safety standards
Testing and measuring with the CP CU1 must comply with the relevant national and international safety
standards listed below:
• EN 50191 (VDE 0104) "Erection and Operation of Electrical Equipment"
• EN 50110-1 (VDE 0105 Part 100) "Operation of Electrical Installations"
• IEEE 510 "IEEE Recommended Practices for Safety in High-Voltage and High-Power Testing"
• LAPG 1710.6 NASA "Electrical Safety"
Moreover, additional relevant laws and internal safety standards have to be followed.
Before operating the CP CU1 and its accessories, read the safety instructions in this Getting Started
carefully.
Do not turn on the CP CU1 and do not operate the CP CU1 without understanding the safety information
in this manual. If you do not understand some safety instructions, contact OMICRON before proceeding.
Maintenance and repair of the CP CU1 and its accessories is only permitted by qualified experts at
OMICRON service centers (see "Support" on page 28).

1.2.2 Safety rules

Always observe the five safety rules:
► Disconnect completely.
► Secure against re-connection.
► Verify that the installation is dead.
► Carry out grounding and short-circuiting.
► Provide protection against adjacent live parts.

1.2.3 Safety accessories

OMICRON offers a range of accessories for added safety during the operation of our test systems. For
further information and specifications, refer to the corresponding Supplementary Sheet or contact
OMICRON Support.

OMICRON 3
CP CU1 Getting Started

1.3 General
► Do not touch any terminals without a visible connection to ground.
► Before handling the CP CU1 or CPC 100 in any way, connect them with a solid connection of at least
6 mm2 cross-section to ground. Ground the CP CU1 as close as possible to the CPC 100.
► Use the CP GB1 grounding box to connect the CP CU1 to overhead lines and power cables. For
detailed information, see 3 "Connecting the CP CU1 to a power line" on page 19.
► When using the CP GB1, ground it near the place where the connection to the test object is made.
Make sure that the grounding stud is in good condition, clean and free of oxidation.
► Make sure that all studs and cables of the CP GB1 are screwed tight.
► Do not open the CP CU1’s or CP GB1’s housing.
► Do not repair, modify, extend, or adapt the CP CU1, CP GB1 or any accessories.
► Use only original accessories available from OMICRON.
► Use the CP CU1, CP GB1 and their accessories only in a technically sound condition and when its
use is in accordance with the regulations. In particular, avoid disruptions that could in turn affect
safety.
► Do not use the CP CU1 if you have a cardiac pacemaker. Before operating the CP CU1 make sure
that there is no person with a cardiac pacemaker in the immediate vicinity of the measurement setup.

1.4 Operating the measurement setup

► Before operating the CP CU1, CPC 100, and CP GB1 ground them as described in 3 "Connecting
the CP CU1 to a power line" on page 19.
► When using the CP GB1, ground it near the place where the connection to the test object is made.
Make sure that the grounding stud is in good condition, clean and free of oxidation.
► Life threatening voltages up to 600 V can appear on all CP GB1’s contacts and on all clamps and
cables connected to the CP CU1 during the test. Keep safe distance from them.
► Use a grounding set to ground the power line at the near end whenever you handle the measurement
setup inside the danger zone (for example when changing connections at the CP GB1 between
measurement loops).
► Power the CP CU1 only from the CPC 100’s EXT. BOOSTER output. Use only booster cables
supplied by OMICRON.
► Ensure that the short-circuit bar is always plugged in the CP CU1’s I AC output whenever the output
is not connected to the I AC input of CPC 100.
► Connect the CP CU1’s I AC output exclusively to the I AC input of the CPC 100.
► Before connecting the CP CU1 with the CPC 100, turn off the CPC 100 either by the POWER
ON/OFF switch or the Emergency Stop button.
► Set the current range switch on the CP CU1’s front panel only when the CPC 100 is turned off and
the test object is grounded.

4 OMICRON
 Safety instructions

1.5 Orderly measures

The CP CU1 Getting Started or alternatively the e-book in PDF format has always to be available on site
where the CP CU1 is being used. It must be read and observed by all users of the CP CU1.
The CP CU1 may be used to conduct line impedance and grounding system measurements. Any other
use is not in accordance with the regulations. The manufacturer and/or distributor is not liable for
damage resulting from improper usage. The user alone assumes all responsibility and risk.
Following the instructions provided in this Getting Started is also considered part of being in accordance
with the regulations.

1.6 Disclaimer
If the equipment is used in a manner not specified by the manufacturer, the protection provided by the
equipment may be impaired.

1.7 Compliance statement

Declaration of conformity (EU)
The equipment adheres to the guidelines of the council of the European Community for meeting the
requirements of the member states regarding the low voltage directive (LVD) and the RoHS directive.

1.8 Recycling
This test set (including all accessories) is not intended for household use. At
the end of its service life, do not dispose of the test set with household waste!
For customers in EU countries (incl. European Economic Area)
OMICRON test sets are subject to the EU Waste Electrical and Electronic
Equipment Directive 2012/19/EU (WEEE directive). As part of our legal obligations
under this legislation, OMICRON offers to take back the test set and ensure that it is
disposed of by authorized recycling agents.
For customers outside the European Economic Area
Please contact the authorities in charge for the relevant environmental regulations in
your country and dispose the OMICRON test set only in accordance with your local
legal requirements.

OMICRON 5
CP CU1 Getting Started

2 Introduction
2.1 Designated use
The CP CU1 is a coupling unit designated for measurements with the CPC 100 test system mainly on
overhead lines and power cables.
Typical applications include:
• Line impedance and k factor measurements at overhead lines and power cables
• Mutual coupling measurements on double and multi-circuit lines
• Ground impedance measurements
• Step & touch voltage measurements
• Reduction factor measurements
• Measurement of coupling into signal cables
The CP GB1 grounding box (see 2.4 "CP GB1 grounding box" on page 8) is a surge arrestor unit
protecting the operating staff and equipment from high-voltage hazards during measurements on
overhead lines and power cables in case of unexpected events on the power line.
The CP CU1 works as an add-on device to the CPC 100. Do not connect the CP CU1 to any other
device. Do not use the accessories for applications not indicated in this reference manual.
Any other use of the CP CU1 but the one mentioned above is considered improper use, and will not only
invalidate all customer warranty claims but also exempt the manufacturer from its liability to recourse.

2.2 Circuit diagram of the CP CU1

Figure 2-1 below shows the principal circuit diagram of the coupling unit.

I AC (0…2.5 A)
Surge arrestor

Power transformer Current range switch

Fuse 30 A

CT
BOOSTER I OUT (0…100 A)

Voltmeter

V1 AC (0…30 V) V SENSE (0…600 V)

Surge arrestor VT

Figure 2-1: Circuit diagram of the CP CU1

6 OMICRON
 Introduction

2.3 Operating controls of the CP CU1

• The front panel of the CP CU1 provides the following functional elements:
• BOOSTER input for connecting with the CPC 100’s EXT. BOOSTER output
• Current range switch for setting the current range of the CP CU1
• Voltmeter for measuring the voltage at the test object’s terminals
• I OUT current output
• I AC output for measuring the output current using a CT (current transformer) with the 100 A : 2.5 A
transformation ratio. The output is to be connected with the I AC input of the CPC 100.
• V SENSE input for measuring the voltage at the test object’s terminals
• V1 AC output for measuring the voltage at the test object’s terminals using a VT (voltage transformer)
with the 600 V : 30 V transformation ratio. The output is to be connected with the V1 AC input of the
CPC 100.
• Short-circuit bar for shorting the I AC output whenever the output is not connected to the I AC input
of the CPC 100
• Equipotential ground terminal for grounding the CP CU1 close to the position of the operating staff
Figure 2-2 below shows the CP CU1’s functional elements.

Equipotential Location to I AC output V1 AC output V SENSE input

ground store the short-
terminal circuit bar

Fuse 30 A Current range

BOOSTER input switch Voltmeter I OUT output

Figure 2-2: Front panel of the CP CU1

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CP CU1 Getting Started

2.4 CP GB1 grounding box

2.4.1 Description
The CP GB1 grounding box (see Figure 2-3 below) is a surge arrestor unit for connecting the CP CU1
to the test object. If high voltage appears for a short time on the test object’s terminals, an arc discharges
the voltage and exstinguishes without destroying the grounding box. If the arc persists for a longer time
period, the surge arrestor insulator melts and the terminals are short-circuited to ground, thereby
protecting the operating staff, CP CU1 and CPC 100.

16 mm cylindrical and 20 mm L1 line stud Equipotential

ball grounding studs A/L1/red ground stud

The L1, L2 and L3 line studs mounted L2 line stud L3 line stud
on the CP GB1 are of 25 mm ball type B/L2/yellow C/L3/blue

Figure 2-3: CP GB1 grounding box

The scope of delivery for the CP GB1 includes 16 mm cylindrical grounding studs as well as 20 mm and
25 mm ball grounding studs as seen in Figure 2-3 above

8 OMICRON
 Introduction

.
WARNING
Death or severe injury caused by high voltage or current possible
► The CP GB1 grounding box must be used for measurements on overhead lines or
power cables.

To CP CU1
To test object

Connection stud

Surge arrestor

Screw

Ground connection

Figure 2-4: Cross-sectional view of the CP GB1

WARNING
Death or severe injury caused by high voltage or current possible
Insufficient grounding due to missing surge arrestors.
► Before connecting the CP GB1 to a power line, always check whether it is equipped
with surge arrestors. The following signs could indicate missing surge arrestors:
• The screws for the installation of the surge arrestors appear to be more recessed
than usual (due to a missing surge arrestor above the respective screw).
• The connection studs are loose and "wobbling".

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CP CU1 Getting Started

The CP GB1 grounding box is suitable for three different ground connection types: cylindrical grounding
studs of 16 mm diameter or ball studs of 20 mm and 25 mm (1 inch) diameter. The grounding socket
clamp is needed for secure ground connection of the CP GB1 to the substation ground. The grounding
socket clamps compatible with the grounding studs in the substation are given in Table 2-1 below.

WARNING
Death or severe injury caused by high voltage or current possible
Connecting socket clamps of one type to a grounding point of another system is highly
dangerous on both the connection of the grounding set to the CP GB1 and the
connection of the CP GB1 to the grounding point in the substation.
► Depending on the type of grounding studs in the substation, the appropriate
connection set and socket clamp have to be used.
The 16 to 20 mm socket clamps are designed and tested for fault currents up to 26.5 kA,
the 25 mm (1 inch) socket clamp for fault currents up to 30 kA, both for a maximum
duration of 100 ms.
► On locations where higher fault currents are possible, the CP CU1 and CP GB1 must
not be used!

Table 2-1: To be used grounding stud / socket clamp combinations

Grounding stud in the substation Proper grounding socket clamp
16 mm cylindrical grounding stud 16…20 mm grounding socket clamp
(if the CP GB1’s 16 mm cylindrical or 20 mm
ball studs are used)
12 mm

20 mm ball grounding stud

10 OMICRON
 Introduction

Table 2-1: To be used grounding stud / socket clamp combinations

Grounding stud in the substation Proper grounding socket clamp
25 mm ball grounding stud 25 mm grounding socket clamp
(if the CP GB1’s 25 mm studs are used)
16 mm

Figure 2-5: Screwing on the CP GB1’s grounding studs

For transportation, the CP GB1’s grounding studs are usually removed. If this is the case, mount them
onto the CP GB1 using the delivered wrench and screw them tight (see Figure 2-5 above).

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CP CU1 Getting Started

2.4.2 Shorting the phases

A three-lead cable is delivered with the CP GB1 for shorting all phases for L1||L2||L3-E measurements.

Figure 2-6: Three-lead cable

To short the phases, connect the line studs of the CP GB1 as shown in Figure 2-7 below.

Figure 2-7: Shorting the phases

12 OMICRON
 Introduction

2.4.3 Changing the surge arrestors

The surge arrestors of the CP GB1 can permanently short-circuit the CP GB1’s terminals to ground if
overvoltage appears on the terminals. Even short transients can cause a discharge and, if the energy is
too high, possibly damage the surge arrestor. Defective surge arrestors can result in erroneous
measurement results. If the measurement results obtained using the CP GB1 differ considerably from
the expected values, check the surge arrestors using the CPC 100 as follows.
Surge arrestor testing with the VWithstand test card
Apply a voltage of 500 V for at least 10 seconds using the VWithstand test card from the resistance test
cards. Set a test current of 0.01 A. If the current is exceeded, an error message is displayed. In this case,
the surge arrestor under test is defective and you have to replace it. If no message is displayed, the surge
arrestor is intact. For detailed information on this test, see the CPC 100 Reference Manual. Repeat the
test for all three studs A/L1, B/L2 and C/L3.
Surge arrestor testing with the sequencer test card
Note: Depending on the license package you purchased with your CPC 100, the VWithstand test card
might not be available (it is for example not part of the CPC 100 + CP CU1 package, since it is not
needed for the CP CU1-related measurements). In this case the CPC 100’s sequencer test card can be
used alternatively.

Figure 2-8: Setup of the sequencer test card for surge arrestor testing

In case you plan to use the sequencer test card, perform the steps below. Also see Figure 2-8 above.
1. Open the sequencer test card as described in the CPC 100 User Manual.
2. Set the output range selection to AC 2kV.
The measurement channels are set to V Out and I Out automatically.
3. Select Bin/Time from the combo box next to the measurement channel combo boxes.
4. Set the voltage to 500 V and the frequency to 50 Hz.
5. Set the trigger to I Out and the threshold to 0.01 A.
6. Set the time limit to 10 s.
7. Activate the SOOT (Switch off on trigger) check box.
8. Perform the test for all three studs A/L1, B/L2 and C/L3.
If the I Out threshold of 0.01 A is exceeded before the measurement is over (10 s), the respective surge
arrestor is defective.

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CP CU1 Getting Started

Replace defective surge arrestors only with spare parts from OMICRON (see Figure 2-9 below). For
ordering information, contact OMICRON sales office.

Figure 2-9: Surge arrestors

To replace a surge arrestor:

1. Disconnect the CP GB1 completely and observe the five safety rules in 1.2.2 "Safety rules" on
page 3.
2. Open the surge arrestor chamber using a 22 mm wrench by removing the contact screw (see Figure
2-10 below).

Contact screw

Figure 2-10: Opening the surge arrestor chamber

3. Turn the CP GB1 upright and move the stud over the surge arrestor chamber until the surge arrestor
falls out.
4. Replace the defective surge arrestor by the spare one.
5. Screw the contact screw very tight (torsional moment of 15…20 Nm).

14 OMICRON
 Introduction

2.5 Clamp-on ammeter

A clamp-on ammeter for AC 50/60 Hz (see Figure 2-11 below) is available from OMICRON as an
accessory. For ordering information, contact OMICRON sales office. This is a third party device. For
further information on the device refer to the product documentation delivered with it.

Figure 2-11: Clamp-on ammeter (symbolic picture)

2.6 Cleaning
WARNING
Death or severe injury caused by high voltage or current possible
► Prior to cleaning disconnect the device.

► To clean one of the devices described in this document, use a cloth dampened with isopropanol
alcohol or water.

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CP CU1 Getting Started

2.7 Working principle of the CP CU1

2.7.1 Safety concept
The CP CU1 has been designed for measurements on overhead transmission lines and power cables.
In order to provide safety, the CP CU1 comes with a matching transformer, a CT and a VT which provide
galvanic insulation between the operator and the line under test (marked by the orange dashed line in
Figure 2-12 below). Furthermore, the CP GB1 protects the CP CU1 and the operator from unexpected
events on the line by being capable of diverting high short-circuit currents. The insulation of the CP CU1
is designed to withstand far higher voltages than the CP GB1’s surge arrestors do.
Note: This is only guaranteed if the danger zone is respected by the user!

DANGER
ZONE

ine
to l

Figure 2-12: Test setup consisting of CPC 100, CP CU1 and CP GB1.

2.7.2 Measurement methodology

20 V

200 mV

2 mV

20 μV

16.7 Hz 33.4 Hz 50 Hz 66.7 Hz 83.4 Hz 100 Hz

Figure 2-13: Interference in railroad environment (rated frequency at 16.7 Hz)

16 OMICRON
 Introduction

Measurements on Power Lines involve high interference from parallel live systems. Figure 2-13 above
shows the frequency spectrum for the open line voltage of loop L1-E of a line which is running in parallel
to a railway transmission line. From this diagram it is quite obvious that interference must be carefully
considered for an accurate measurement.
The noise suppression method applied by the CPC 100 is called frequency-selective measurement,
which means that the frequency of the measurement current differs from any frequency which is
generated by interference.
By default, all CP CU1-related templates use 30 and 70 Hz (or 40 and 80 Hz respectively if the mains
frequency is 60 Hz). On top of that a digital filter is applied, with its mid-frequency matching the frequency
of the test current, which suppresses interference above and below the measurement current’s
frequency. Refer to the CPC 100 Reference Manual to get more information on the characteristics of the
applied filter.

30 Hz 50 Hz f
V

50 Hz 70 Hz f
Figure 2-14: Frequency-selective measurement

Impedance versus frequency

60.0 Ω

50.0 Ω
Impedance [Ohm]

40.0 Ω R(f )
X(f )
30.0 Ω
Rcalc
20.0 Ω Xcalc

10.0 Ω

0.0 Ω
0.0 Hz 20.0 Hz 40.0 Hz 60.0 Hz 80.0 Hz 100.0 Hz 120.0 Hz 140.0 Hz
Frequency [Hz]

Figure 2-15: Interpolation to rated frequency

In order to obtain the values corresponding to 50 Hz, the 30 Hz and 70 Hz measurement results are
linearly interpolated, as shown in Figure 2-15 above. As can also be seen in Figure 2-15, additional
measurements are conducted at frequencies higher than 70 Hz to check the interpolation for plausibility.

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CP CU1 Getting Started

For a reliable and accurate measurement it is however also required to facilitate a rather high signal-to-
noise ratio. Therefore, in order to inject maximum power, the CP CU1 comes with a switchable matching
transformer with four different current ranges, which allow impedance matching for short and long power
lines.
Table 2-2 below illustrates currents and voltages related to the four CP CU1 ranges.

Table 2-2: CP CU1 current range characteristics

CP CU1 Range Max. Voltage Turns Ratio Range of Impedance

(Max. Current) CP CU1 Matching with Max. Possible
Transformer Current
100 A 50 V 1:5 <1Ω
50 A 100 V 2:5 1 Ω...5 Ω
20 A 250 V 1:1 5 Ω...25 Ω
10 A 500 V 2:1 > 25 Ω

25 Ω
500 V
10 A Range

5Ω

250 V
20 A Range

100 V 1Ω
50 A Range
50 V
100 A Range

10 A 20 A 50 A 100 A

Figure 2-16: Load diagram of the CP CU1

Considering 5 kVA as maximum power of the CPC 100 in conjunction with the CP CU1, the load diagram
in Figure 2-16 above applies. For impedances smaller than 1 Ω, the 100 A range offers the highest
possible test current. In contrast, for impedances higher than 25 Ω, the 10 A range offers the highest
possible test current and therefore the best signal-to-noise ratio.

18 OMICRON
 Connecting the CP CU1 to a power line

3 Connecting the CP CU1 to a power line

WARNING
Death or severe injury caused by high voltage or current possible
► For measurements on overhead lines or power cables the CP CU1 must be connected
to the test object through the CP GB1 grounding box.

For line impedance testing, as well as grounding system testing, the CP CU1 must be connected to an
overhead line or a power cable. Due to the fact that the near end of the line must be disconnected from
ground, there is a high danger potential and the risk for persons and test equipment to be exposed to
hazardous voltages. The following scenarios are leading to voltages which are diverted to ground by the
CP GB1 to protect the test equipment and operating staff:
• The line under test could carry high voltage due to interference from adjacent live systems.
WARNING
Death or severe injury caused by high voltage or current possible
• Due to miscommunication, the grounding switch at the far end could be opened
accidentally.
• Due to miscommunication, the line could also be energized from the far end.
Note: This is a severe violation of the safety rule “Secure against re-connection”!
► Establish the responsibilities of everybody working on the asset under test.
► Make sure that everybody is made aware of the measurement on the respective
power line.
► Provide two-way communication between the near and far ends of the power line.
• The line could also be exposed to lightning strike.
WARNING
Death or severe injury caused by lightning discharge to the power line possible
► Check the weather forecast for the area the line is located in!
► Do not connect the measurement setup to overhead lines if there is a possibility of a
thunderstorm over any part of the line to be measured!
► Abort the measurement at the slightest indications of lightning!

In order to estimate the interference and find an adequate current range on the CP CU1, the following
steps are recommended for preparation of the measurement. All together, four criteria have to be
checked:
• Line length
• Estimated open-line voltage
• Measured open-line voltage
• Injected test current
Note: It is now also possible to check the four criteria using the Line Impedance test card. See 3.5 "Using
the Line Impedance test card to check the four criteria" on page 26.

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CP CU1 Getting Started

3.1 First criterion: Line length

► Select the CP CU1’s current range by following the assignment in Table 3-1 below and continue with
the next criterion: 3.2 "Second criterion: Estimated open-line voltage" on page 20.

Table 3-1: Selection of current range, according to line length

Line Length 0...2 km 2...10 km 10...50 km > 50 km
0...1.5 mi 1.5...6 mi 6...30 mi > 30 mi
CP CU1 Current Range 100 A 50 A 20 A 10 A

3.2 Second criterion: Estimated open-line voltage

Figure 3-1 below illustrates the estimation of the open-line voltage. In principal, the circular current which
is caused by the interference of a parallel system is measured in all three phases.

WARNING
Death or severe injury caused by high voltage or current possible
► Before grounding a power line, make sure that the line is not powered with the life-
dead-life test as follows:
1. Use a certified voltage tester, approved for the voltage tests to be performed.
2. Verify on a life system that the voltage tester is operational.
3. Verify on the line to be unpowered that it is dead, using the voltage tester.
4. Verify on the life system again that the voltage tester is still working.
► When grounding a power line, observe the five safety rules as described in
1.2.2 "Safety rules" on page 3.

While connecting the grounding set to the

power line, the grounding switch must be
closed!

I1 I2 I3

Figure 3-1: Estimating the open-line voltage

20 OMICRON
 Connecting the CP CU1 to a power line

In order to allow a circular current, both ends of the line must be grounded. With a standard current clamp
it is usually not possible to measure the current directly at the grounding switch. Therefore, the following
procedure by using a grounding set is recommended:
1. Switch off, short-circuit and ground the power line on both sides, using an installed grounding switch
or, if no grounding switch is available on site, using grounding cables (further on, the grounding switch
or these extra grounding cables are referred to as grounding switch).
2. Make sure that the connection to ground at the far end of the power line is not removed during the
complete test procedure.
3. In addition to the grounding switch, ground the line at the near end, using a grounding set consisting
of three cables rated for the maximum short-circuit current possible on the line. Now the circular
current is split between the near grounding switch and the grounding set.
4. Open the near grounding switch in order to measure the entire circular current via the grounding set.
5. Then measure the current in each of the three phases of the grounding set with a common current
clamp and note the values. Depending on the geometry of the line the values for the currents could
slightly differ.
6. Close the grounding switch again.
7. Disconnect the grounding set from the power line and ground.
Alternatively, the circular currents can also be measured directly at the grounding switch by using a
Rogowski coil or other suitable measuring devices. Then the grounding set is not needed for the
measurement of the circular currents. One advantage of the measurement is the possibility to detect
contact problems at the grounding switch. If one of the measured currents is much lower than the others,
this could indicate a contact problem at the grounding switch of that respective phase (this of course only
refers to the measuring method using a Rogowski coil).

DANGER
Death or severe injury caused by high voltage or current
► Make sure all the contacts at the grounding switch are in good condition (free of
oxidation). Note: If no voltage is measured on any of the phases, this does not
necessarily mean that the grounding switch is working properly!

The estimated voltage can now be calculated according to equation Eq. 3-1 or 3-2 below by using the
highest of the three measured currents.
Note: If line length is measured in kilometers use Eq. 3-1. For miles use Eq. 3-2.

Ω
V est = l line ⋅ 2 ⋅ 0 ,4 ⋅ -------- ⋅ max ( I 1, 2, 3 ) (Eq. 3-1)
km
Ω
V est = l line ⋅ 2 ⋅ 0 ,64 ⋅ ------ ⋅ max ( I 1, 2, 3 ) (Eq. 3-2)
mi

Table 3-2: Selection of current range, according to estimated voltage

Calculated Voltage (Vest) 0...50 V 50...100 V 100...250 V 250...500 V
CP CU1 Current Range 100 A 50 A 20 A 10 A
► Select the CP CU1’s current range according to Table 3-2 above. Do not select a higher current
range than selected according to line length! Only select a lower range if necessary.

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CP CU1 Getting Started

Note: If the calculated voltage exceeds 500 V, the measurement cannot be performed, since the
CP CU1 is designed for a maximum working voltage of 500 V! If this is the case, please consider the
following options:
• Try to reduce the interference from parallel lines by
a) reducing the load flow on parallel lines,
b) de-energizing parallel systems.
• Perform the measurements at another time, when load flow is lower.
• For overhead lines: Perform measurement on the most remote phase of the parallel system if the
coupled voltage is lower than 500 V.
Note: If none of the above mentioned options is sufficient and you still need to conduct a measurement,
contact OMICRON customer support. There is a special application available for such cases. For
security reasons, this specific option is only performed by OMICRON engineers and is not offered as an
official application to customers.

3.3 Third criterion: Measured open-line voltage

After the estimation of the open-line voltage, the CP CU1 can now be connected to the line under test,
in order to measure the actual open-line voltage and verify the estimation.
► Set up the CP CU1 and the CP GB1 according to Figure 3-2 below. The Kelvin clamps on the
grounding box must be connected to the phase where the highest circular current has been
measured and ground.
In the example in Figure 3-2 the CP CU1 is connected to L2 and ground.
While connecting the CP GB1 to the power
line, the grounding switch must be closed!

Read voltage here

Select 10 A range Shorten!

Danger zone! Keep clearance of min. 5 m to CP CU1 and CP GB1!

Figure 3-2: Measuring the coupled voltage with the CP CU1

22 OMICRON
 Connecting the CP CU1 to a power line

To measure the open-line voltage, perform the following steps:

1. Make sure the grounding switch is closed!
WARNING
Death or severe injury caused by high voltage or current possible
Connecting grounding socket clamps of one type to a grounding point of another type is
highly dangerous on both the connection of the grounding set to the CP GB1 and the
connection of the CP GB1 to the grounding point in the substation. The 16 to 20 mm
grounding socket clamp is designed and tested for fault currents up to 26.5 kA, the
25 mm (1 inch) grounding socket clamp for fault currents up to 30 kA, both for a
maximum duration of 100 ms.
► Make sure to use the proper grounding socket clamp and that the grounding stud is in
good condition, clean and free of oxidation!
► On locations where higher fault currents are possible than the grounding socket
clamps are designed for, the CP CU1 and the CP GB1 must not be used!
2. Connect the CP GB1 to ground near the place where the connection to the power line is made. Use
the cable delivered with the CP GB1 and the proper grounding socket clamp.
3. Connect the cables of the grounding set used for estimating the open-line voltage (see step 3. on
page 21) to the CP GB1. (See Figure 3-2: on page 22).
4. Connect the other ends of the grounding set to the three phases of the power line.
WARNING
Death or severe injury caused by high voltage or current possible
► Position the CP CU1 at a minimum distance of 5 m/15 ft from the CP GB1.
► Mark the area around the CP GB1 in the range of at least 5 m/15 ft and around the
CP CU1 in the range of at least 2 m/6 ft as danger zone.

Note: Since the CP CU1 is located within the danger zone, it must be positioned in a way to be able to
read the voltage.
5. Ground the CP CU1, using a cable of at least 6 mm2 cross-section, close to the position of the
operator.
6. Connect the CP CU1 with the CP GB1 as shown in Figure 3-2: on page 22.
7. Select the 10 A range (500 V) on the CP CU1 and shorten the I AC output.
8. Leave the danger zone and open the grounding switch.
WARNING
Death or severe injury caused by high voltage or current possible
► If you see or hear anything uncommon in the test equipment, for example, noise of
electrical discharge or lightening of surge arrestors in the CP GB1, close the
grounding switch before touching the measurement setup.
9. Read the voltage at the voltmeter of the CP CU1 from outside the danger zone.
10.Close the grounding switch again!

OMICRON 23
CP CU1 Getting Started

11.Select the CP CU1’s current range according to Table 3-3 below. Do not select a higher current range
than selected according to line length! Only select a lower range if necessary.
Note: If the measured voltage exceeds 500 V, the measurement cannot be performed, since the
CP CU1 is designed for a maximum working voltage of 500 V! If this is the case, please consider the
options given in the previous section on page 22.

Table 3-3: Selection of current range, according to measured voltage

Measured Voltage 0...50 V 50...100 V 100...250 V 250...500 V
CP CU1 Current Range 100 A 50 A 20 A 10 A

Note: Furthermore, the safety concept of the CP CU1 must be explained at this stage, since a higher
voltage than the permissible voltage could be measured under particular circumstances. The insulation
of the CP CU1 is designed to withstand far higher voltages than the CP GB1’s surge arrestors do.
Hence, there is no risk potential for the user if the actual voltage is higher than the calculated voltage as
long as the safety clearance is respected.

3.4 Fourth criterion: Injected test current

The fourth and last criterion is the injected test current. Now the CPC 100 needs to be connected to the
CP CU1 to be able to inject current and perform measurements.
Figure 3-3 below shows the measurement setup of the CP CU1 and CPC 100. A more detailed overview
over the necessary connections between the two units is given in Figure 3-4: on page 25.

Figure 3-3: CP CU1 measurement setup with CPC 100 and CP GB1

24 OMICRON
 Connecting the CP CU1 to a power line

To connect the CPC 100 to the CP CU1 perform the steps below. Keep in mind that you need to enter
the previously mentioned danger zone to get access to the CP CU1’s front panel.
1. Make sure the grounding switch is closed and the CPC 100 is switched off!
2. Position the CPC 100 outside the danger zone, at least 5 m/15 ft away from the CP CU1 and at least
10 m/30 ft away from the CP GB1 respectively.
3. Ground the CPC 100, using a cable of at least 6 mm2 cross-section, close to the position of the
operator.
4. Connect the CPC 100 to the CP CU1 according to Figure 3-4 below.
a) Connect the CPC 100’s EXT. BOOSTER output with the CP CU1’s BOOSTER input, using the
yellow Booster Cable.
b) Connect the CP CU1’s I AC output with the CPC 100’s I AC input, using a banana cable. Plug in
the cable according to the color coding (red/black).
c) Optional (for line impedance measurements only): Connect the CP CU1’s V1 AC output with the
CPC 100’s V1 AC input, using the V1 AC coax. cable. Plug in the cable according to the color
coding (red/black).
Note: If the CP CU1’s I AC output is not in use, shorten it with the short-circuit bar!
CPC 100 Side Panel CPC 100 Front Panel

I AC
V1 AC
Booster cable from CP GB1
(only for line
impedance)
(V-Sense)

Grounding

CP CU1 Front Panel to CP GB1

Figure 3-4: Connecting the CPC 100 to the CP CU1

OMICRON 25
CP CU1 Getting Started

If the CPC 100 is not capable of injecting the required current, the shape of the current is getting
distorted. The distortion of the current causes harmonics. These harmonics can be suppressed
effectively by frequency-selective measurement if the degree of distortion is small. It is recommended to
inject at least 60 % of the required current if using one of the four CPC 100 templates for 10 A, 20 A,
50 A and 100 A. If this isn’t possible, select a smaller current range on the CP CU1 and load the
corresponding template. In case it is not possible to inject 6 A in the 10 A current range, set the current
in the CPC 100 template to a lower value. However, if possible, try to inject at least 1 A to get reliable
test results.
Based on experience, it is mostly phase-ground loops on overhead lines and phase-phase loops on
power cables which have the highest loop impedance. Therefore, these loops should be taken for
assessing the CP CU1’s ability of current injection.

3.5 Using the Line Impedance test card to check the four
criteria
If you want to perform line impedance measurements with the new Line Impedance test card, you
should use the work-flow of the new Line Impedance template (which includes the new test card) to
check the four criteria.
If you need to check the criteria before performing grounding system or coupling into signal cables
measurements, you could use the test card to check criteria 1 to 3 but would have to perform the manual
check of the fourth criterion as described in 3.4 "Fourth criterion: Injected test current" on page 24.
Note: If you just plan to use the Line Impedance test card for checking the first three criteria, you can
open it directly by pressing the Resistance accelerator key situated left of the CPC 100’s display.
1. Open the Line Impedance template on the CPC 100
by following this path in the file operations view:
Templates > Cable & Transmission Line > Line
Impedance 1/2/3-Phase or Mutual Coupling
(depending on the asset under test).
Note: The Line Setup sub-window is opened
automatically.
2. Select the asset type under 1. Step: Topology.
Note: For measurements on double-circuit lines select
3 phases, coupled (mutual coupling).
3. Enter the length of the line you want to measure under
2. Step: Line length.
4. Measure the circular currents at the grounding switch at the near end of the line or alternatively at a
grounding set you connected to the line. For a description of the procedure refer to 3.2 "Second
criterion: Estimated open-line voltage" on page 20.
5. Enter the results under 3. Step: Induced current.
The test card will then calculate the estimated open-line voltage (Open line V est).
6. Connect the CP CU1 to the power line as described in 3.3 "Third criterion: Measured open-line
voltage" on page 22 to measure the actual line voltage and verify the estimation.
7. Enter the measurement result under Open line V act. Then press OK to conclude line setup.

26 OMICRON
 Connecting the CP CU1 to a power line

The system will calculate the needed current range for the CP CU1 and display it in a new sub-window.
The suggested current range needs to be selected via the current range switch at the front panel of the
CP CU1. Additionally, the needed current range is automatically set in the main page of the Line
Impedance test card.
If the measurement is not possible, because the criteria to conduct a safe and reliable measurement
were not met, an error message is shown.
Note: The fourth criterion (Injected test current) is checked in each measurement loop of the line
impedance measurement. If the actually injected test current does not reach 60 % of the set current, an
error message is displayed. In this case the current setting needs to be decreased accordingly.

OMICRON 27
CP CU1 Getting Started

Support
When you are working with our products we want to provide you with the greatest
possible benefits. If you need any support, we are here to assist you!

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Make use of our 24/7 technical support hotlines:
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Additionally, you can find our Service Center or Sales Partner closest to you at
www.omicronenergy.com.

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