Distribution Commissioning Work Instructions Dcwi

Network Standard 11 / 2013
Testing and Commissioning
February 2014
Copyright of Western Power

Any use of this material except in accordance with a written agreement with Western Power is prohibited.
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Network Standard NS 11/2013
DCWI
Document control
Author/custodianship
Author:
Hamer Zavaleta-Vidal
Process owner/custodian:
Warren Wild
Stakeholders
In the process of document update, the following people must be consulted.
Name
Position/title
Robert Rogerson
Distribution Standards Policy Manager
Stephen Grose
Distribution Policy Team Leader
Sandeep Megan
Engineering Team Leader
Grant Stacy
Engineering Team Leader
Distribution list
When this document is updated, the following people must receive a copy of the updated version.
Name
Position/title
Ian Winks
Work Practice Development Team Leader
Stephen Grose
Distribution Policy Team Leader
Craig Marley
Training Program and Development Manager
Mike Millard-Hurst
Training Delivery Team Leader
Document version history

Version
Original
Date
Oct 2003
Amendment
DM# 817718
Revised
Feb 2011
DM# 7892458 v1
Revised
Apr 2011
DM# 7892458 v2
Revised
May 2013
DM# 7892458 v7H
Revised
Nov 2013
DM# 7892458 v8B
Revised
Feb 2014
DM# 7892458 v9
Related/referenced documents
Document title
AS/NZS 49612003 Electric Cables - Polymeric Insulated For distribution and service applications
AS/NZS 30002007 Electrical Installations (known as the Australian/New Zealand Wiring Rules)
AS/NZS 10262004 Electric Cables - Impregnated paper insulated For working voltages up to and including
19/33 (36) kV
AS 20672008 Substations and high voltage installations exceeding 1 kV a.c.
Review and authorisation
Name
Role
Dave Christmas
Work Practices Manager
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Date authorised
Signature
03 February 2014
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DCWI revision status as of Nov 2013

All DCWIs are for commissioning only (i.e. not decommissioning) unless otherwise specified.
DCWI title
DM number
Issue date
1.1
High voltage overhead line
1795426
06 May 2013
1.2
Low voltage overhead line
1796777
06 May 2013
1.3
Low voltage aerial bundled conductor
1795287
06 May 2013
1.4
High voltage ABC and Hendrix spacer cables
3602270
06 May 2013
2.1
High voltage XLPE cable testing
1641396
06 May 2013
2.2
High voltage mixed cable testing
1644080
06 May 2013
2.3
High voltage paper-insulated belted cables
1643359
06 May 2013
2.4
High voltage paper-insulated screened cable testing
1643927
06 May 2013
2.5
Low voltage XLPE cable testing
1644284
06 May 2013
2.6
Low voltage cable with/without pillars testing
1797424
06 May 2013
2.7
Steel standards streetlights
1698111
25 Nov 2013
2.8
SPUDS single-phase to three-phase pillar
7361371
06 May 2013
2.9
Pole to pillar
6356290
06 May 2013
Commissioning
4744204
25 Nov 2013
3.1
MPS distribution transformer

Decommissioning
10705867
06 May 2013
Commissioning
4742929
25 Nov 2013
Decommissioning
10705938
06 May 2013
4608955
25 Nov 2013
Commissioning
4729442
06 May 2013
Decommissioning
10706139
06 May 2013
3.2
Non-MPS distribution transformer
3.3
Single-phase transformer (pole mount/pad mount)
3.4
Three-phase transformer (pole mount)
3.5
SWER isolation transformer (pole mount)
5115678
06 May 2013
3.6
SWER isolation transformer (ground mount)
5115848
25 Nov 2013
4.1
Earth testing
1647382
06 May 2013
4.2
Nulec load break switch/sectionaliser
1954619
06 May 2013
4.3
Nulec pole-mounted automatic control recloser
1648164
06 May 2013
4.4
Pole-top switch
1661970
06 May 2013
4.5
Pole-mounted capacitor bank
1661674
06 May 2013
4.6
SPURS fuse switch
2057732
06 May 2013
4.7
Voltage regulator (closed Delta connection)
2221388
06 May 2013
4.8
Voltage regulator (Star connection)
4711751
06 May 2013
4.9
High voltage ring main switchgear
1707122
06 May 2013
4.10
Low voltage kiosk
1767654
06 May 2013
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Contents
General provisions ......................................................................................................................................................5
Purpose.......................................................................................................................................................................5
Responsibility ..............................................................................................................................................................5
Safety aspects and work skills ....................................................................................................................................5
Definitions ....................................................................................................................................................................6
Section 1 Overhead lines .......................................................................................................................................12
1.1
1.2
1.3
1.4
HV overhead powerlines .............................................................................................................................13

LV overhead lines ........................................................................................................................................15
LV ABC ........................................................................................................................................................17
HV ABC and Hendrix spacer cable .............................................................................................................21
Section 2 Underground cable ................................................................................................................................25

2.1
2.2
2.3
2.4
2.5
2.6
2.7
2.8
2.9
HV XLPE cable ............................................................................................................................................26

HV mixed cable ...........................................................................................................................................32
HV paper-insulated belted cable .................................................................................................................38
HV paper-insulated screened cable ............................................................................................................44
LV XLPE cable ............................................................................................................................................49
LV cable with/without pillars ........................................................................................................................53
Steel standard streetlights ...........................................................................................................................60
SPUDS single-phase to three-phase pillar ..................................................................................................65
Pole to pillar .................................................................................................................................................68
Section 3 Distribution transformers .....................................................................................................................71

3.1
3.2
3.3
3.4
3.5
3.6
MPS distribution transformer .......................................................................................................................72

Non-MPS distribution transformer ...............................................................................................................78
Single-phase transformer (pole-mounted/pad-mounted) ............................................................................84
Three-phase transformer (pole-mounted) ...................................................................................................88
SWER isolation transformer (pole-mounted)...............................................................................................94
SWER isolation transformer (ground mounted) ..........................................................................................97
Section 4 Distribution equipment .......................................................................................................................101

4.1
4.2
4.3
4.4
4.5
4.6
4.7
4.8
4.9
4.10
Earth testing ..............................................................................................................................................102

Nulec load break switch/sectionaliser .......................................................................................................107
Nulec pole-mounted automatic control recloser ........................................................................................111
Pole-top switch ..........................................................................................................................................116
Pole-mounted capacitor bank ....................................................................................................................119
HV Single-phase underground rural supply fuse switch ...........................................................................124
Voltage regulator (closed Delta connection) .............................................................................................127
Voltage regulator (Star connection) ...........................................................................................................133
HV ring main switchgear............................................................................................................................139
LV kiosk .....................................................................................................................................................145
Appendix 1 Commissioning Officer authorisation requirements to commission distribution equipment .149
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General provisions
Purpose
This standard is intended for use as a guide when undertaking installation, testing and commissioning activities on
Western Powers distribution network.
It is recognised that equipment procured by Western Power changes over time, therefore this standard does not
aim to identify and document individual equipment requirements.
Responsibility
It is the responsibility of Work Practice Development to control the contents of this document.
The formal leader is responsible for ensuring that:
Persons performing the installation, testing and commissioning of apparatus on Western Powers network have
the necessary training, skills, experience, competencies and qualifications and understand the content of this
standard.
The commissioning officer signs the document before energisation.
The switching operators hold current and updated switching licences approved by Western Power when
performing switching operations.
Safety aspects and work skills
Safety is the core value of all work carried out by the Western Power Network Total Workforce.
Therefore, every employee is charged with the responsibility of performing their work in a safe manner.
Before, during and after carrying out work in relation to this standard, staff must comply with all applicable
safety Regulations, Standards and instructions, particularly those within this procedure, the Electrical System
Safety Rules and the Work Practice Manual. See Appendix 1 for the specific training requirements that
commissioning officers must meet in order to be authorised to commission distribution equipment.
All high voltage exposed conductors and electrical equipment must be regarded as alive or energised until
isolated, proven de-energised (by an approved testing device) and earthed.
All low voltage exposed conductors and electrical equipment must be regarded as alive or energised until
isolated, proven de-energised (by an approved testing device) and short-circuited.
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Definitions
ABC
Aerial bundled conductor.
Alive, live, energised
With reference to electrical apparatus, means that a voltage exists between apparatus and earth.
Active or phase conductor
Any conductor that is maintained at a difference of potential from the neutral or earthed conductor (also known as
phase, line, red, white, blue, live).
Apparatus
Any item of electrical machinery or equipment (including primary and secondary) in which conductors are used, or
supported, or of which they form a part.
Approved
Having written Western Power endorsement for a specific function.
As-constructed drawing
A design drawing that has been modified or altered due to changes to the construction. As-constructed drawings
should be prepared by a qualified surveyor where cable routes are shown and must be verified and signed by the
person in charge of the work.
Authorised person
A competent person with the delegated authority to perform the duty on behalf of Western Power. See Appendix 1
for the specific training requirements that commissioning officers must meet in order to be authorised to
commission distribution equipment.
Cable
Insulated multi-strand wiring (with or without fillings, reinforcements or protective coverings) designed for
underground electrical installations.
Circuit
A configuration of electrically connected components or devices that has a closed loop giving a return path for the
current.
Commissioning
Activities carried out in order to ensure that new and existing equipment is safely and accurately connected to the
network and, once in service, operate as intended. Activities include inspections to verify installation,
commissioning tests and post-energisation tests/checks.
Commissioning authority
The group which conducts pre-commissioning and final commissioning activities and controls access to plant and
equipment (which cannot be energised by normal switching) during the commissioning stage.
Commissioning notice
Issue of this notice signifies that all commissioning tests have been completed and that a site and items of a plant
are accepted by the operating authority for service. The notice may contain a list of outstanding items.
Conductor
A wire, cable or form of metal designed for carrying electric current (includes neutral and earth).
Connected
Joined together by a conductor capable of carrying electrical current for its required function or purpose by either
physically clamping or bolting conductors together or closing a circuit breaker, switch or similar device.
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Control authority
The representative authority responsible for the control of the apparatus. Typically this includes:
Construction authority
Commissioning authority
Operating authority: Transmission SOCC and Distribution NOCC.
Construction authority
The group responsible for construction and installation of plant and equipment. The construction authority controls
access to plant and equipment which cannot be energised by normal switching during the construction stage.
Continuity test
A test to determine whether electrical current flows continuously throughout the length of a single wire or individual
wires in a cable.
CPM
Construction project manager.
Danger
The presence of risk to health and/or risk of bodily injury.
Danger tag
An approved notice that reads DANGER DO NOT OPERATE which prohibits operation of the apparatus to
ensure safety of personnel working under conditions of the work permit.
De-energised
The electrical supply to electrical apparatus has been switched off. The electrical supply has been de-energised but
not necessarily isolated, tested and earthed.
DFIS
Distribution and Facilities Information System.
Discharged (electrically)
Conductors which have been connected to earth so as to remove any stored electrical energy.
Discharge
The release or dissipation of stored energy.
Disconnected
The status of apparatus that has been separated from the system by the removal of jumpers or sections of
conductors/cables such that the apparatus cannot be re-energised through normal switching operations
(sometimes referred to as non connectable). For example, an opened electrical connection, as in the case of open
MEN links/N-E connections, and open earthing leads from earth electrodes.
DNAR
Distribution Network Access Request. The formal request to Network Operations Control Centre to access the HV
distribution network.
Earth
The conductive mass of the earth, the electric potential of which, at any point, is conventionally taken as zero.
Earthed
Electrically connected to earth in an approved manner by approved earthing conductors or switches.
Electrical Access Permit (EAP)
Western Powers standard form that authorises access to, and work on, electrical apparatus which has been made
safe by isolating and earthing.
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Electrical apparatus
Any electrical equipment, including overhead lines and underground cables, the conductors of which are live or can
be made live.
ENMAC
Electricity Networks Management and Control (for distribution systems). An advanced DMS/TCS/SCADA product
that completely computerises Electricity Distribution Control Room operations.
Equipotential mat
A conducting device at ground level, connected electrically to equipment to avoid differences of step and touch
potential through the body of a person.
ESSR Electrical System Safety Rules
The intention of the ESSR is to provide Western Power with a standard set of procedures and rules that govern the
network issued and owned by NOCC and SOCC.
EWL
Electrical Workers Licence.
EWP
Elevating work platform.
Excavation
Any action that digs displaces or penetrates the ground.
Formal handover
A formal handover is a verbal or written exchange of information between two or more people who have
responsibility for the job. The formal handover information must be accurate and understood, thereby ensuring
continuity of safe work processes.
Handover certificate
Used when responsibility for control of one or more items of plant, or an entire site, is transferred from one group to
another.
Hipot
High potential.
High voltage (HV)
A voltage of 1,000 V AC or 1,500 V DC or greater.
Hazard
A source of potential harm or situation with the potential to cause loss or damage.
Independent earth
An effective earthed reference point used for testing purposes.
Insulated
Separated from adjoining conducting material by a non-conducting substance which provides adequate resistance
to the passage current, or to disruptive discharges through or over the surface of the substance at the operating
voltage, and mitigates the danger of shock or injurious leakage of current.
Insulated conductor
A conductor covered by a type of insulation that prevents the danger of electric shock.
Installer
The authorised person responsible for installation of equipment by the construction authority. This may be applied
equally to Western Power as to the Property Developer.
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Isolated
De-energised by an isolating device that prevents unintentional energisation of the electrical apparatus.
Isolation point
Isolating device that has been isolated and has danger label fitted.
Issuing officer
An authorised person who is responsible for issuing permits. This task is generally handled by the switching
operator.
Live
Energised or subject to hazardous induced or capacitive voltages.
Low voltage (LV)
A voltage less than 1,000 V AC or 1,500 V DC.
MEN links /N-E connections
Multiple earthed neutral system of earthing as defined in AS/NZS 3000 or Neutral Earth connections.
MPS
Modular package substation.
NAC
Network authority card.
Network operator
The owner, controller and operator of an electricity network (NOCC/SOCC).
NOCC
Network Operations Control Centre. NOCC is responsible for control of the distribution network.
NOP
Normally open point.
Operating authority
The division responsible for operation and control of the network.
Overhead line
Aerial conductors or cables together with associated supports, insulators and apparatus used for the transmission
or distribution of electrical energy.
Person in charge
Person responsible for the work being carried out by a work party.
Phase rotation
The sequence in which phases rotate relative to each other.
Phasing out
Identification of active conductors of the same phase (having no significant angular displacement i.e. red phase to
red phase).
Portable earthing equipment
earthing equipment that can be transferred from one location to another and used for earthing and short-circuiting
de-energised station components.
Program earths
Earthing equipment of approved type applied as part of an electrical switching program or schedule.
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Project manager
The authorised person responsible for management of the project, including installation and handover tasks. This
person is also called the construction project manager and is usually field-based.
PTCC
Pole-top control cubicle.
Ring main unit (RMU)
One or a combination of ring main switches and/or switch fuses used to control and operate HV underground
systems.
Ruling Span
The ruling span (or equivalent span) is defined as that span which behaves identically to the tension in every span
of a series of suspension span under the same loading tension. The value of the ruling span is found in the design
drawings of the respective line.
Safety
Ability of a system not to cause human injuries or loss of lives during construction, operation and maintenance.
Safety observer
A competent person assigned by the person in charge and whose sole function is to observe and warn against
unsafe approach to live electrical apparatus or unsafe conditions.
Sanction to test (STT)
Western Powers standard form authorising the testing of electrical apparatus.
SCADA
Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition.
SPUDS
Single-phase underground distribution system.
SOCC
System Operations Control Centre. SOCC is responsible for control of the Transmission Network.
SPIDAWeb
Distribution and Facilities Information System. A geographical information system (GIS) that allows users to view
the electrical distribution network in relation to physical geographical location in Western Australia. Users can view
and analyse network assets using spatial information.
SWER
Single-wire earth return.
SWIS
South West Interconnected System.
Switching
The operation of circuit breakers, isolators, disconnectors, fuses or other methods of making or breaking an
electrical circuit and/or the application and removal of programmed earths.
Switching authority
An authority that has been issued an approval to give approval to perform switching operations.
Switching operator
A person authorised by the operating authority to carry out switching operations within the limits of their
authorisation.
Test
The measurement of electrical apparatus, with an approved device, to establish the present condition.
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Tester in charge
A person authorised to receive and relinquish a sanction to test (STT) within the limits of their authorisation.
Test voltage
The voltage which must be applied to the specified equipment for the purpose of periodic electrical testing.
TNO
Technical network officer.
XLPE
Cross-linked polyethylene.
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Section 1 Overhead lines

The intention of this section is to provide details of the commissioning requirements of overhead conductors and
cables. This section contains details of the following installation types:
1.
High voltage (HV) overhead powerlines
2.
Low voltage (LV) overhead lines
3.
LV aerial bundled conductor (ABC)
4.
HV ABC and Hendrix spacer cable.
Note:
Prior to commencing work, personnel must ensure that they are authorised for the role and qualified in the training
requirements to work on commissioning distribution equipment. For more information, see Appendix 1 Commissioning Officer authorisation requirements to commission distribution equipment (DM#11415730) in this
manual.
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1.1 HV overhead powerlines

1.1.1
Purpose
This instruction covers the testing and commissioning of all replacements or new installations of HV overhead
powerlines (three phase and single phase).
Use the instruction in conjunction with the Electrical System Safety Rules, the Work Practice Manual, the Switching
Operators manuals and the switchgear manufacturers operating and commissioning manual.
1.1.2
Equipment pre-handover status
HV overhead conductors shall be installed in accordance with the appropriate guidelines in Distribution
Construction Standards Handbook HB01 and applicable design drawings.
Where down earths are provided for system earthing or earth wire installed, the installer must issue an earthing
testing schedule and handover certificate to the operating authority.
1.1.3
Pre-commissioning checks
The following checklist must be completed prior to any commissioning activities:

1. Check the handover certificate.
2. Check and ensure that the SPIDAWeb pick IDs or pole numbers for each item are in accordance with the
as-constructed drawings. Record details on the commissioning sheet.
3. Check and record the work package number.
4. Record the following on the commissioning sheet:
date when the conductor was tensioned

size and type of conductor
conductor temperature when it was tensioned
the ruling span length of the line
the conductor tension in kilograms or beat bay length in metres or the tension in seconds per 5 wave return.
Compare the results with the design tension or appropriate conductor sag and tension tables to ensure that
the conductor was tensioned correctly.
5. Ensure all earth points have acceptable test results and record them on the earth testing commissioning sheet.
The earth testing commissioning sheets must be handed over to the commissioning officer for checking.
6. The commissioning officer must check the earthing points, ensuring that the connections and inspection pit are
correctly installed as per the appropriate construction standard.
Note: Bolts and screws in all electrical connections across the Western Power network must be properly tightened.
1.1.4
Commissioning of the equipment
1. Carry out the commissioning program in accordance with the Switching Operators manuals and the switching
program.
2. Phase out under Network Operation Control Centre (NOCC) switching schedules across the normally open
point.
3. Ensure all equipment is in its final circuit condition and all normally open points are set to their designated
position.
4. Ensure all equipment is locked, signposted and protected from unauthorised access.
5. Ensure the work area is left tidy with no hazards to the public.
6. Hand over responsibility to the operating authority.
7. Return the relevant form to the project file as a record of the commissioning/handover certificate.
8. After the on-site project officer signs off on the DCWI, send a scanned copy to the relevant manager: the
construction manager (for work performed by Western Power employees); the service manager (for
contractors); or the project manager (for the Future Grid).
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OBSERVE SAFETY LIFESAVERS

DISTRIBUTION COMMISSIONING WORK INSTRUCTION
1.1 HIGH VOLTAGE OVERHEAD POWERLINES
Purpose: This instruction covers the testing and commissioning of all replacements or new installations of high voltage
overhead powerlines (three phase and single phase)
Address/Pole No.: __________________________________________________________________________
Work Package No.: _____________________ SPIDAWeb Pick ID/Pole No. (from): ______________________
(to): _____________________
1. CONDUCTOR TENSION CHECK
Date tensioned
Tension the
conductors as per
the conductor
tension table and
record the details.
Conductors at
correct tension
Conductor size and type

Conductor temperature
Ruling span (bay) length
metres
Tension (dynamometer)
kg
Beat bay length
metres
Tension (beat method)
seconds per 5 wave return
2. INSTALLATION AND CONSTRUCTION CHECKS
Ensure that the earth resistance test results at all earth points are acceptable.
Check that the construction complies with the distribution construction standards and
applicable design drawings.
Inspect the
constructed line and
carry out the
following checks:
Check that the structures are numbered and labelled correctly.

Check the conductor arrangement and ensure correct clearances from the ground,
buildings and trees.
Check the conductor for damage and ensure it is secured correctly.
Check that all line taps and earth connections are completed correctly and secured.
Check that all the ground work is completed.
3. ENERGISATION
Ensure that all working earths and programmed earths are removed (if applicable).
Energisation of the
high voltage
overhead line
Check that the high voltage fuses are correct (if applicable).
Energise the line as per the switching program number.
Phase out under NOCC switching schedules across the normally open point.
4. HANDOVER OF RESPONSIBILITY
I hereby certify that items 1 to 3 have been completed with the above results and transfer control to the network
operating authority.
Commissioning officer: _______________________________________
Signature:______________________________________________
1.
2.
3.
4.
NAC #: _____________________
Date & time: _____________________
Ensure the work area is left tidy with no hazards to the public.
Hand over responsibility to the operating authority.
Return this form to the project file as a record of the commissioning/handover certificate.
After the on-site project officer signs off on the DCWI, send a scanned copy to the relevant manager: the
construction manager (for work performed by Western Power employees); the service manager (for contractors); or
the project manager (for the Future Grid).
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1.2 LV overhead lines

1.2.1
Purpose
This instruction covers the testing and commissioning of all replacements of LV bare overhead lines.
Use the instruction in conjunction with the Electrical System Safety Rules, the Work Practice Manual and Switching
Operators Manual 1.
1.2.2
Related information
None.
1.2.3 Equipment pre-handover status
An LV overhead conductor must be installed in accordance with the appropriate guidelines in Distribution
1.2.4
1.
Check the handover certificate.
2.
Check and ensure that the SPIDAWeb pick IDs or pole numbers for each item are in accordance with the
as-constructed drawings.
3.
Check that all line taps are correctly placed and secure.
4.
Check that the neutral and phase conductor arrangement is correct.
5.
Record the following on the commissioning sheet:

the average span (bay) length of the line
the conductor tension in kilograms or beat bay length in metres or the tension in seconds per 5 wave return.
Compare the results with the design tension or appropriate conductor sag and tension tables to ensure that
the conductor was tensioned correctly.
1.2.5
1.
Carry out the commissioning in accordance with the Switching Operators manuals and the switching program.
2.
Conduct a service connection test on all installations where the service connections have been disturbed.
3.
If the LV network is to be interconnected with another LV network, phase out at the normally open point;
otherwise phase out as required.
4.
Where new LV disconnectors have been installed, they must be phased out and checked.
5.
Ensure all equipment is in a final circuit condition and all normally open points are set to their designated
position.
6.
If applicable, ensure all equipment is locked, signposted and protected from unauthorised access.
7.
8.
9.
Return the relevant form to the project file as a record of the commissioning/handover certificate.
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1.2 LOW VOLTAGE OVERHEAD LINES
Purpose: This instruction covers the testing and commissioning of all replacements or new installations of low voltage
bare overhead lines.
Address/Pole No.: ________________________________________________________________________
Work Package No.: ________________________ SPIDAWeb Pick ID/Pole No. (from): ________________
(to): ________________
1. CONDUCTOR TENSION TEST
Date tensioned
/
/
Conductors at
correct
tension
Tension the
C
conductors as per
Ruling span length
metres
the conductor
tension table and
kg
record the details.
Beat span (bay) length
metres
Tension (beat method)
seconds per 5 wave return
Inspect the
constructed line and
carry out the
following checks:

Check that all line taps and neutral connections are completed correctly and secured.
3. ENERGISATION
Ensure that all short-circuiting equipment has been removed.
Check that the low voltage fuses are correct (if applicable).
Energisation of the
overhead low
voltage network.
Energise the circuit in accordance with the low voltage switching program.
Record the switching program number.
Conduct a service connection test on all installations where the service connections
have been disturbed.
If the LV network is to be interconnected with another LV network, phase out at the
normally open point; otherwise phase out as required.
I hereby certify that items 1 to 3 have been completed with the above results and transfer control to the network
NAC #: _____________________
Signature:______________________________________________
1.
2.
3.
4.
Date & time: _____________________
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1.3 LV ABC
1.3.1
Purpose
This instruction covers the testing and commissioning of all replacements or new installations of LV ABC.
Use the instruction in conjunction with the Electrical System Safety Rules, the Work Practice Manual and Switching
Operators Manual 1.
1.3.2
LV ABCs must be installed in accordance with the appropriate guidelines in Distribution Construction Standards
Handbook HB01 and applicable design drawings.
1.3.3
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

date the conductor was tensioned
the ruling span length of the line.
1.3.4
Test criteria
1.3.4.1 Continuity test

Use a resistor box (2 M, 7 M and 11 M) in conjunction with a 500 V insulation resistance tester to identify the
cable end and phases. The test results depend on the resistor box used.
1.3.4.2 Insulation resistance test
1.
Use a 500 V insulation resistance tester (never use 5 kV insulation tester for this test) for a minimum of
1 minute.
2.
Values greater than 100 M for new cables and greater than 10 M for aged cables are acceptable.
3.
Discharge the cable with shorting leads and safety earth leads on the cable prior to testing.
4.
Inform safety observers (where present) that testing is about to commence.
5.
Ensure all personnel engaged in performing this task have vacated the test area and are outside the safety
barriers.
6.
Remove any safety earth or earth switches on the cable to be tested prior to testing.
1.3.5
1. Carry out the commissioning program in accordance with the Switching Operators manuals and the switching
program.
2. Conduct a service connection test on all installations where the service connections have been disturbed.
3. If the LV network is to be interconnected with another LV network, phase out at the normally open point;
4. Where new LV disconnectors have been installed, they must be phased out and checked.
5. Ensure all equipment is in a final circuit condition and all normally open points are set to their designated
position.
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6. If applicable, ensure all equipment is locked, signposted and protected from unauthorised access.
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1.3 LOW VOLTAGE AERIAL BUNDLED CONDUCTOR
Purpose: This instruction covers the testing and commissioning of all replacements or new installations of a low voltage
aerial bundled conductor Note: Bolts and screws in all electrical connections across the Western Power network must
be properly tightened.
Address/Pole No.: ________________________________________________________________________
Work Package No.: ______________________
SPIDAWeb Pick ID/Pole No. (from): _________________

(to): _________________
1. CONDUCTOR TENSION TEST

Date tensioned
Tension the
conductors as per the
conductor tension
table and record the
details.
Conductor size
150 mm
95 mm
Average bay length
metres
kg
Conductors at
correct tension
2. CONTINUITY TEST
Use a resistor box
and 500 V insulation
resistance tester to
positively distinguish
cable ends.
Test connections
Test results
Resistor values
Red to neutral
White to neutral
Blue to neutral
3. INSULATION RESISTANCE TEST

Test connections
Use a 500 V
insulation resistance
tester for a minimum
of 1 minute.
Test results
Acceptable values
Red to white
White to blue
Blue to red
Red to neutral
White to neutral
Blue to neutral
100 M or higher
for new cables
10 M or higher
for aged cables

Checks
Check that all line taps and neutral connections are completed correctly and secured.
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5. ENERGISATION
Check that the low voltage fuses are correct (if applicable).
Energisation of the
overhead LV network
Energise the circuit in accordance with the low voltage switching program.
Record the switching program number. _______
Conduct a service connection test on all installations where the service connections
have been disturbed.
If the LV network is to be interconnected with another LV network, phase out at the
normally open point; otherwise phase out as required.
I hereby certify that all items have been completed with satisfactory results and transfer control to the project
manager.
Commissioning officer: ___________________________________
NAC #: _________________________
Signature:______________________________________________
Date & time: _____________________
1.
2.
3.
4.
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1.4 HV ABC and Hendrix spacer cable

1.4.1
Purpose
This instruction covers the testing and commissioning of all replacements or new installations of HV ABC and
Hendrix spacer cable.
Use the instruction in conjunction with the Electrical System Safety Rules, the Work Practice Manual, Switching
Operators Manual 1 and the HV ABC and Hendrix Manual.
1.4.2
The purpose of this instruction is to clearly outline the testing and commissioning of HV ABC cables.
HV ABC and Hendrix spacer cables must be installed in accordance with the appropriate guidelines in Distribution
Construction Standards Handbook HB01, the HV ABC and Hendrix spacer cables manuals and applicable design
drawings.
1.4.3
The following is a checklist to be completed prior to any commissioning activities:

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

the ruling span length of the line.
1.4.4
Test criteria

Use a resistor box (2 M, 7 M and 11 M) in conjunction with a 500 V insulation resistance tester (never use 5
kV insulation tester for this test) to identify the cable end and phases. Record the test results (M) for each phase
to screen.
1.
Use a 5 kV insulation resistance tester for a minimum of 1 minute.
2.
Values greater than 10,000 M for new cables and greater than 100 M for aged cables are acceptable.
3.
Discharge the cable with shorting leads and safety earth leads on the cable prior to testing.
4.
Inform safety observers (where present) that testing is about to commence.
5.
Ensure all personnel engaged in performing this task have vacated the test area and are outside the safety
barriers.
6.
Remove any safety earth or earth switches on the cable to be tested prior to testing.
Note: Testing of the apparatus is detailed in the Distribution Commissioning Work Instruction.
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1.4.5
1.
Carry out the commissioning program in accordance with the Switching Operators manuals and the switching
program.
2.
Phase out under NOCC switching schedules across the normally open point, if applicable.
3.
Ensure all equipment is in a final circuit condition and all normally open points are set to their designated
position.
4.
If applicable, ensure all equipment is locked, signposted and protected from unauthorised access.
5.
6.
7.
8.
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1.4 HIGH VOLTAGE AERIAL BUNDLED CONDUCTOR
AND HENDRIX SPACER CABLE
Purpose: This instruction covers the testing and commissioning of all replacements or new installations of high voltage aerial
bundled conductor and Hendrix spacer cable.
Note: The following tests must be carried out after installation, alteration, repair or jointing and before the cable is put into service.
Address/Pole No.: ___________________________________________________________________________________
Work Package No.: ___________________________
SPIDAWeb Pick ID/Pole No. (from): ________________________

(to): ________________________
1. CATENARY/MESSENGER TENSION CHECK

Date tensioned
Conductors
at correct
tension
Tension the conductors

as per the conductor
tension table and record
the details.
Average bay length
metres
kg
Hendrix cable sag
cm
2. CONTINUITY TEST
Use a resistor box and
500 V insulation
resistance tester to
positively distinguish
cable ends.
Test connections
Test results
Resistor box values
Red to neutral
White to neutral
Blue to neutral

Test connections
Use a 5 kV insulation
resistance tester for a
minimum of 1 minute.
Test results
Acceptable values
Red to white
White to blue
Blue to red
Red to earth
White to earth
Blue to earth
10,000 M or higher
for new cables
100 M or higher
for aged cables

Ensure that the earth resistance test results at all earth points are acceptable.
Inspect the constructed
line and carry out the
following checks:
Check the conductor arrangement and ensure correct clearances from the ground, buildings
and trees.
Check that all line taps and earth connections are completed correctly and secured.
Check lightning arresters and earthing bars are in place where applicable.
Ensure that all construction team leaders have transferred control of the project to the
switching officer.
5. ENERGISATION
Energisation of the high
voltage aerial bundle
conductor or Hendrix
spacer cable.
Ensure that all program earths and working earths are removed (if applicable).
Energise the line as per the switching program number.
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I hereby certify that all items have been completed with satisfactory results and transfer control to the network operating authority.
Commissioning officer: ______________________________________________
Signature: ___________________________________________________
1.
2.
3.
4.
NAC #: ________________________
Date & time: ________________________
Return this form to the project file folder as a record of the commissioning/handover certificate.
After the on-site project officer signs off on the DCWI, send a scanned copy to the relevant manager: the construction manager
(for work performed by Western Power employees); the service manager (for contractors); or the project manager (for the Future
Grid).
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Section 2 Underground cable

The intention of this section is to provide the commissioning requirements for underground equipment. This section
currently contains details for the following installations:
1. HV cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) cable

2. HV mixed cable
3. HV paper-insulated belted cable
4. HV paper-insulated screened cable
5. LV XLPE cable
6. LV cables with/without pillars
7. Steel standard streetlights
8. Single-phase underground distribution system (SPUDS) single-phase to three-phase pillar
9. Pole to pillar.
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2.1 HV XLPE cable

2.1.1
Purpose
This instruction covers the testing and commissioning of all replacements or new installations of HV XLPE cable.
2.1.2
Scope
This instruction is to be used for the commissioning of all HV XLPE cable installations in Western Powers South
West Interconnected System (SWIS) distribution network.
All HV XLPE cables, including cable joints and terminations, must be tested following installation, alteration, repair
or jointing (including under fault situations) to confirm that the insulation levels and integrity of the cable system are
within acceptable values.
HV XLPE cables must never be tested with a HV DC cable tester (high potential (hipot)), as it may cause damage
to the cable.
2.1.3
References
AS/NZS 1429.12006: Electric Cables Polymeric Insulated for working voltages 1.9/3.3 (3.6) kV up to and
including 19/33 (36) kV.
DM# 1564423: Transmission substation maintenance services: transmission testing services (for HV cables).
2.1.4
The cable must be installed, terminated and jointed in accordance with the appropriate guidelines in the
Underground Distribution Systems Policy and Installations Options Manual, the Electrical System Safety Rules, the
Work Practice Manual and applicable design drawings.
The installer must affix permanent labels to all relevant network equipment such as transformers, switch fuse units
and RMUs, stating the destination of all cables.
Insulation, continuity and phasing tests must be carried out and the results recorded.
On completion, the installer must issue cable testing schedules and a handover certificate to the operating
authority.
2.1.5
Responsible persons
The project manager or officer in charge must be responsible for the performance of testing in accordance with this
instruction.
The testing officer must be responsible for carrying out tests in accordance with this instruction and recording all
test results and explanatory comments where relevant.
2.1.6
1. Check the cable handover certificate. Note: In most cases a combined handover certificate is issued for the
transformer and cables.
2. Check the HV XLPE cable testing schedule.

3. Prepare permanent cable destination labels in accordance with Distribution Equipment Labelling Network
Standard NS 05-2000.
4. Check that the HV screens are all solidly and separately bolted to the HV earth bar.
5. Go to the site and verify that the equipment has been installed correctly and is suitable for service as per the
as-constructed drawing.
6. Carry out a detailed and thorough check of all assets.

7. Check that there are no cables exposed to the public, and backfill if required. The cables must be set up as a
working end in a pillar, and the pillar must be painted white and labelled. In the CBD (or wherever a pillar is not
practical), the working end can be buried (if applicable).
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2.1.7
Test criteria
1. The following test equipment is required for the tests outlined in this instruction:
a 500 V insulation resistance tester
a 5 kV insulation resistance tester
Resistor box
a 0.011.0 Hz very low frequency (VLF) tester for a test voltage up to 60 kV.
2. Ensure surge arresters are disconnected for testing from pole cable termination (if applicable).
3. HV XLPE cable MUST NOT be tested using DC hipot test equipment. HV tests may only be conducted using a
5 kV insulation resistance meter or an approved VLF test set.
4. All HV XLPE cables must be tested as follows:
For transformer cables 250 metres and without in-line joints, conduct an end-to-end phasing test, an
insulation resistance test and a sheath integrity test.
For transformer cables >250 metres and/or with in-line joints, conduct an end-to-end phasing test, an
insulation resistance test, a sheath integrity test, a VLF test and an insulation resistance test (postVLF
test).
For feeder cables, conduct an end-to-end phasing test, an insulation resistance test, a sheath integrity
test, a VLF test and an insulation resistance test (postVLF test).
2.1.7.1 End-to-end phasing test

cable end and phases. Record the test results (M) of each phase to screen.
Test the insulation resistance using a 5 kV insulation resistance tester between each phase conductor and its
corresponding cable screen. Record the measured resistance (M/G). The insulation resistance test results
should be for a period of 1 to 10 minutes (subject to the length of the cable) or until the reading is stable. Values
greater than 10,000 M/10 G are acceptable.
2.1.7.3 Sheath integrity test
Test the sheath integrity using a 5 kV insulation resistance tester between screen and earth. Record the measured
values. Values greater than 1,000 M/1 G for new cables and 100 M for old cables are acceptable.
The insulation resistance test results should be for a period of 1 to 10 minutes (subject to the length of the cable) or
until the reading is stable. The test is carried out using a 5 kV insulation resistance tester between each cable
screen to earth. Record the measured resistance (M/G).
Note: If the insulation resistance test is <1,000 M for new cables and <100 M for old cables, notify appropriate
authorities (CPM) for further testing and repair; otherwise proceed.
2.1.7.4 VLF test
Using a VLF tester, test between conductors to screens (which must be earthed) for 60 minutes at a voltage of 3 VN
in the frequency range of 0.011.0 Hz (subject to the length of the cable). The result is acceptable if no breakdown
occurs.
Test voltage 3 VN (kV)
Peak
RMS
System voltage
VN
6.6 kV
3.8 kV
12.0
9.0
11 kV
6.35 kV
19.0
14.0
22 kV
12.7 kV
38.0
27.0
33 kV
19.1 kV
57.0
41.0
Note: For maintenance of cables the test voltage is to be reduced to 80% for existing cable and to 60% for ageing
cable (greater than 30 years of service).
Note: Repetitive VLF testing of a cable should be avoided.
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2.1.7.5 Insulation resistance test (postVLF test)
After the VLF test, carry out an insulation resistance test using a 5 kV insulation resistance tester between phase to
phase and earth. The insulation resistance test results should be for a period of 1 to 10 minutes (subject to the
length of the cable) or until the reading is stable. Values greater than 10,000 M/10 G are acceptable. Record the
measured values.
2.1.8
1. Carry out the commissioning in accordance with the Switching Operators manuals and the switching program.
2. Phase out under NOCC switching schedules across the normally open point, if applicable.
4. Hand over responsibility for the completion of the form.
7. The testing officer, cable jointer, construction project manager and commissioning officer must sign off on the
testing schedule.
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2.1 HIGH VOLTAGE XLPE CABLE
cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) cable.
Note: XLPE cable must never be tested with a high voltage DC cable tester (high potential), as it may cause damage to
the cable. These tests must be carried out after installation, alteration, repair or jointing and before the cable is put into
service.
Work Package No.: ______________ SPIDAWeb Pick ID: _____________ Test Site: ___________________
Location of the cable (from): __________________________________________________________________
(to): __________________________________________________________________
1.
CABLE DESCRIPTION
Rated voltage:
kV
Length of the cable (approx):
Size of the cable:
mm
Cable function:
2.
No. of in-line joints:
Transformer cable
Feeder cable
VISUAL INSPECTION AND SAFETY CHECK

Ring main
switch
Ring main
earth switch
Check the switchgear to ensure the switch is in the OFF position.
N/A
Check the equipment mimic diagram to confirm the earth switch is in the ON position.
N/A
Ensure that the interlock is disengaged to access the cable/compartment for test purposes.
Cap test
points
Confirm that the cables are de-energised (with an approved testing device) before proceeding
further.
Cable
Ensure that the earthing system is completed and undamaged if possible.
Cable surge
arresters
Wherever possible, check that there is no physical damage to the cable or equipment.
Check that the cable is clearly marked with each phase colour and labelled (if applicable).
Ensure the surge arresters are disconnected from cable terminations (if applicable).
3.
END-TO-END PHASING TEST

Test Connection
Use a resistor box in conjunction with

a 500 V insulation resistance tester to
identify the cable end and phases.
4.
Resistor Values
Test Results
Red phase screen
White phase screen
Blue phase screen
INSULATION RESISTANCE TEST
Conduct an insulation resistance test

for 1 to 10 minutes (subject to the
length of the cable) or until the
reading is stable.
Use a 5 kV insulation resistance tester
between each phase conductor and
the corresponding cable screen.
Test Connection
Minimum Values
Red phase conductor to red

cable screen
>10,000 M/10 G
White phase conductor to

white cable screen
>10,000 M/10 G
Blue phase conductor to blue

cable screen
>10,000 M/10 G
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5.
SHEATH INTEGRITY TEST

New Cable

reading is stable.
Use a 5 kV insulation resistance
tester between each cable screen to
earth.
(>1,000 M)
Test Connection
Old Cable (>10 years old)
(>100 M)
Minimum Values
Test Results
Red phase cable screen to

earth
>100 M/(1,000 M/1 G)
White phase cable screen to

earth
>100 M/(1,000 M/1 G)
Blue phase cable screen to

earth
>100 M/(1,000 M/1 G)
If the insulation resistance test is <1,000 M for new cables and <100 M for old cables, notify the appropriate
authorities (construction project manager) for further testing or repair; otherwise proceed. Note: Not applicable for
mixed cables.
Note: Refer to items 8 and 9 (Very Low Frequency Test and Insulation Resistance Test) for all feeder cables or
where the cable is greater than 250 metres in length or has in-line joints.
6.
CABLE TERMINATION CHECKS
Ensure all the cable connections and terminations are made and tightened to the required manufacturer
standard.
Ensure all the cables are clearly and correctly labelled.
7.
HANDOVER OF RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE COMPLETION OF ITEMS 16
I hereby certify that items 1 to 6 have been completed with satisfactory results and transfer control to the
commissioning officer.
Testing officer/cable jointer/CPM: ___________________________
NAC #: _______________________
Signature:______________________________________________ Date & time: _______________________

The commissioning officer must sign this document before energisation.
8.
VERY LOW FREQUENCY (VLF) TEST (TO BE CONDUCTED BY HV LAB OR WESTERN POWER APPROVED
TESTING CONTRACTORS)
Test Connection
Value
Set the VLF tester to apply the required voltage at a 0.011.0 Hz

frequency (subject to the length of the cable) for 60 minutes for phases
to screen (earth).
Record the applied voltage as per Western Power procedures
(DM# 1564423).
Note: For maintenance of cables the test voltage is to be reduced to
80% for existing cable and to 60% for ageing cable (greater than 30
years of service).
_________ kV
Pass
Fail
AC (VLF) TesterTriplex or Single-Phase XLPE Cable

Connection
R+W+B
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to
Voltage Peak
E
Test Duration
Start Leakage (mA)
Finish
Leakage (mA)
60 min
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9.
INSULATION RESISTANCE TEST (POSTVLF TEST)

reading is stable.
After the VLF test, use a 5 kV
insulation resistance tester between
phase to phase and earth. Record the
measured values.
Test Connection
Minimum Values
M
DONE?
Please Tick
Red to (white & blue) phase &

earth
>10,000 M/10 G
White to (red & blue) phase &

earth
>10,000 M/10 G
Blue to (red & white) phase &

earth
>10,000 M/10 G
Test Results
If the insulation resistance test is <1,000 M for new cables and <100 M for old cables, did the cable sheath
withstand an applied HV of 4 kV DC per millimetre applied between the screen and the outer sheath (ground) without
NO
any puncture? YES
If NO, the tester needs to locate the sheath fault and report to the CPM to arrange for repair.
Note: Not applicable for mixed cables.
10. HANDOVER OF RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE COMPLETION OF ITEMS 79
I hereby certify that items 7 to 9 have been completed with satisfactory results and transfer control to the project
manager.
VLF testing officer: _______________________________________
Signature:_________________________________________
NAC #: __________________________
Date & time: __________________________

The commissioning officer must ensure that all checks are completed and the test results comply with the minimum
standards.
Note: Phase out under NOCC switching schedules across the normally open point, if applicable.
I hereby certify that all items have been completed with satisfactory results and transfer control to the network
Signature:_________________________________________
1.
2.
3.
4.
NAC #: __________________________
Date & time: __________________________
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2.2 HV mixed cable

2.2.1
Purpose
This instruction covers the testing and commissioning of all replacements and new installations of HV mixed cable.
Mixed cable refers to different types of cable (made of different insulation materials and construction methods) that
are inseparably linked together.
2.2.2
Scope
This instruction is to be used for the commissioning of all HV mixed cable installations in Western Powers SWIS
All HV cables, including cable joints and terminations, must be tested following installation, alteration or repair to
confirm the insulation levels and integrity of the cable system.
2.2.3
References
AS/NZS 10262004: Electrical Cables Impregnated Paper Insulated Working voltages up to and including
33 kV.
AS 1429.12006: Electric Cables Polymeric Insulated For working voltages 1.9/3.3 (3.6) kV up to and
DM# 1564423: Transmission substation maintenance services: transmission testing services (for HV cables).
2.2.4
The installer must affix permanent labels to all relevant network equipment such as transformers and switch fuse
units and RMUs, stating the destination of all cables.
authority.
2.2.5
Responsible persons
The project manager or officer in charge is responsible for testing in accordance with this instruction.
The tester officer is responsible for testing in accordance with this instruction and recording all test results and
explanatory comments where relevant.
2.2.6
The following checklist to be completed prior to any commissioning activities:

1.
Check the cable handover certificate. Note: In most cases a combined handover certificate is issued for the
transformer and cables.
2.
Verify (on site) that equipment has been installed correctly and is suitable for service as per the as-constructed
drawing.
3.
Carry out a detailed and thorough check of all assets.
4.
Check that there are no cables exposed to the public, and backfill if required. The cables must be set up as a
working end in a pillar, and the pillar must be painted white and labelled. In the CBD area (or where a pillar is
not practical), the working end can be buried.
The linking together of different types of cables in a circuit imposes limitations on permissible commissioning tests.
2.2.7
1.
Test criteria
The following test equipment is required for the tests outlined in this instruction:

a 5 kV insulation resistance tester.
Resistor box
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Note: HV DC testing must not be carried out on XLPE cables.
2.
Test the cable:
after installation and before it is put into service

after alteration, repair or jointing and before it is put back into service.
3.
Paper-insulated cables may be of belted or screened construction. There are many belted 6.6 kV and 11 kV
cables in service and they will remain for a long time.
4.
All paper-insulated cables connected to system voltages greater than 11 kV are of screened construction.
(Belted cables are not manufactured for system voltages greater than 11 kV.)
5.
Whenever possible, the testing of individual cables comprising a mixed cable circuit should be completed
before the cables are inseparably linked.
2.2.8
XLPE and paper-insulated cables inseparably linked
HV circuits comprising mixed cables must be tested.

The linking together of different types of cables in a circuit imposes limitations on permissible commissioning tests.
Circuits comprising two or more cables of differing insulation material and construction which are inseparably linked
must be subjected to the following tests:
Test the insulation resistance using a 5 kV insulation resistance tester between conductor to conductor and
conductors to earth. Record the measured resistance (M/G). The insulation resistance test results should be for
a period of 1 to 10 minutes (subject to the length of the cable) or until the reading is stable. Values greater than 200
M for XLPE-PILC belted, and greater than 500 M for XLPE-PILC screened are acceptable.
2.2.8.3 VLF test
Using a VLF tester, test between conductors to screens (which must be earthed) for 60 minutes at a voltage of 3 VN
at a frequency range of 0.011.0 Hz (subject to the length of the cable). The results are acceptable if no breakdown
occurs.
Test voltage 3 VN (kV)
Peak
RMS
System voltage
VN
6.6 kV
3.8 kV
12.0
9.0
11 kV
6.35 kV
19.0
14.0
22 kV
12.7 kV
38.0
27.0
33 kV
19.1 kV
57.0
41.0
Note: For maintenance of cables the test voltage is to be reduced to 80% for existing cable and to 60% for ageing
cable (greater than 30 years of service).
Note: Repetitive VLF testing of a cable should be avoided.
2.2.8.4 Insulation resistance test (postVLF test)
1.
Test the insulation resistance using a 5 kV insulation resistance tester between conductor and screen.
2.
Record the measured values. Values greater than 200 M for XLPE-PILC belted, and greater than 500 M for
XLPE-PILC screened are acceptable.
3.
After the VLF test, carry out an insulation resistance test using the 5 kV insulation resistance tester between
phase to phase and earth. Record the measured values. The insulation resistance test results should be for a
period of 1 to 10 minutes (subject to the length of the cable) or until the reading is stable.
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2.2.9
1.
2.
3.
4.
Hand over responsibility for the completion of the form.
5.
6.
7.
The testing officer, cable jointer, construction project manager and commissioning officer must sign off on the
testing schedule.
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2.2 HIGH VOLTAGE MIXED CABLE
mixed cable.
Note: Mixed cable refers to different types of cable (made of different insulation materials and construction methods)
that are inseparably linked together. Whenever possible, the individual cables comprising a mixed cable circuit should
be tested before the cables are jointed. The following tests must be carried out after installation, alteration, repairs or
jointing and before the cable is put into service.
Work Package No.: _____________ SPIDAWeb Pick ID: ____________ Test Site: _________________
Location of the cable (from): _____________________________________________________________
(to): _____________________________________________________________
1. CABLE DESCRIPTION
Rated voltage:
kV
Size of the cable:
mm
Cable function:
Transformer cable
Feeder cable
2. VISUAL INSPECTION AND SAFETY CHECK

Ring main
switch
N/A
N/A
Ring main
earth switch
Ensure that the interlock is disengaged to access the cable/compartment for test purposes
Cap test
points
Confirm that the cables are de-energised (with an approved testing device) before proceeding
further.
Cable
Ensure that the earthing system is complete, undamaged and bonded to earth points.
Cable surge
arresters
Ensure the surge arresters are disconnected from the-cable terminations (if applicable).
3. END-TO-END PHASING TEST

Test Connection
Resistor Values
Test Results
Red phase neutral
White phase neutral
Blue phase neutral

reading is stable.
between each phase conductor and
each phase conductor to earth.
Values should be greater than
200 M.
Test Connection
Expected Values
Resistance
Belted
Screened

earth/screen
>200 M
>500 M

earth/screen
>200 M
>500 M

earth/screen
>200 M
>500 M
Bond all conductors and test

between phases and earth.
>200 M
>500 M
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5. VERY LOW FREQUENCY (VLF) TEST (TO BE CONDUCTED BY HV LAB OR WESTERN POWER APPROVED
TESTING CONTRACTORS)
Test Connection
Value
Set the VLF tester to apply the required voltage at a 0.011.0 Hz

frequency (subject to the length of the cable) for 60 minutes for phases
to screen (earth).
Record the applied voltage as per Western Power procedures
(DM# 1564423).
Note: For maintenance of cables the test voltage is to be reduced to
80% for existing cable and to 60% for ageing cable (greater than 30
years of service).
Pass
_______ kV
Fail
AC (VLF) TesterTriplex or Single-Phase (Mixed) XLPE Cables

Connection
A+B+C
to
Voltage Peak
Test Duration
Start Leakage (mA)
Finish
Leakage (mA)
60 min
6. INSULATION RESISTANCE TEST (POSTVLF TEST)

reading is stable.
After the VLF test, conduct an
insulation resistance test using a 5 kV
phase to phase and earth. Record the
measured values.
Minimum Values
Please Tick
Belted
Screened
Test Connection
Test Results
Red to (white & blue) phase

& earth/screen
>200 M
>500 M

earth/screen
>200 M
>500 M

earth/screen
>200 M
>500 M

7. CABLE TERMINATION CHECKS
Ensure all the cable connections and terminations are made and tightened to the required manufacturer
standard.
I hereby certify that items 1 to 7 have been completed with satisfactory results and transfer control to the network
Testing officer/cable jointer/CPM: _________________________
Signature:________________________________________
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NAC #: ___________________________
Date & time: ___________________________
DM# 10701697
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Commissioning officer must ensure that all checks are completed and the test results comply with the minimum
standards.
manager.
Commissioning officer: _________________________________
Signature:________________________________________
1.
2.
3.
4.
NAC #: ___________________________
Date & time: ___________________________
DM# 10701697
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2.3 HV paper-insulated belted cable

2.3.1
Purpose
This instruction covers the testing and commissioning of all replacements or new installations of HV paperinsulated screened cable.
2.3.2
Scope
This instruction must be followed for all HV paper-insulated screened cable installations in Western Powers SWIS
All HV paper-insulated cables, including cable joints and terminations, must be tested following installation,
alteration or repair to confirm the insulation levels and integrity of the cable system.
2.3.3
References
AS/NZS 10262004: Electrical Cables Impregnated Paper Insulated For working voltages up to and
DM# 2074500v2 Testing of High Voltage Paper Insulated (Belted) Cables
2.3.4
units and RMUs, stating the destination of all cables.
authority.
2.3.5
Responsible persons
The tester officer is responsible for carrying out tests in accordance with this instruction and recording all test
results and explanatory comments where relevant.
2.3.6
Resistor box
a single-output (DC negative) hipot tester for a test voltage of up to 60 kV
a positive/negative output DC hipot tester for a test voltage of up to 27 kV.
Paper-insulated cables may be of belted or screened construction.

All paper-insulated cables connected to system voltages greater than 11 kV are of screened construction. (Belted
cables are not manufactured for system voltages greater than 11 kV.)
Test the cable:
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2.3.7
Test criteria
Faults mainly occur in these cables from core to earth because each core is continuously wrapped in metal foil (the
screen). The only exception is at the cable terminations, where the foil is cut back. This creates a small risk of a
core-to-core fault at this location.
HV paper-insulated screened cables must be subjected to the following tests:
The insulation resistance is tested using a 5 kV insulation resistance tester connected conductor to conductor and
between conductors to sheath. Record the measured values.
M are acceptable.
2.3.7.3 Hipot test
In accordance with the cable-designated voltage or system voltage, apply the recommended test DC voltage
for 15 minutes between all conductors connected together and the sheath (R+W+B to sheath). The cable
sheath is earthed. The test is acceptable if no breakdown occurs.
In accordance with the cable-designated voltage or system voltage, apply the test DC voltage for 15 minutes R
to W+B and W to B+R. The cable sheath is earthed. The test is acceptable if no breakdown occurs.
Phase to earth (lead and armour together). A single-output (negative) tester or a positive and negative output
tester may be used for an all-conductors-to-sheath hipot test. The conductors must be connected to the
negative output. Bond all phase conductors and connect them to the negative output hipot test set. Apply DC
HV according to the cable-designated voltage or system voltage, whichever is lesser, for 15 minutes. (Refer to
the table below.)
A cable tester with positive and negative outputs MUST be used for phase-to-phase hipot testing. A cable
tester with a single-terminal (negative) HV output must not be used for core-to-core testing. This test must be
performed exclusively using a positive and negative hipot tester. Both the lead sheath and armour should be
earthed for this test. Apply DC HV according to the cable-designated voltage for 15 minutes as per the
following table.
Test DC voltage
Cable-designated
or system voltage
kV
Between all conductorsto-sheath belted cables

kV
(1)
applied for 15 minutes

Between conductor-toconductor belted cables
kV
3.8/6.6
12.0
16.0
6.35/11
20.0
27.0
Test voltage (belted cables) after repair or cut-in.

Note: (1) The test DC voltage is based on Table B3 of AS/NZS 1026 2004 with an applied derating factor of 0.8.
This factor accommodates the service ageing of cables.
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2.3.8
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
testing schedule.
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2.3 HIGH VOLTAGE PAPER-INSULATED BELTED CABLE
paper-insulated belted cable.
Work Package No.:_____________ SPIDAWeb Pick ID:_____________ Test Site: _________________
Location of the cable (from): ______________________________________________________________
(to):______________________________________________________________
Rated voltage:
kV
Size of the cable:
mm

Cable function:
No of in-line joints:
Transformer cable
Feeder cable

Check that the construction complies with the distribution construction standards and applicable
design drawings.
N/A
Ring main
switch
Ring main earth
switch
N/A
Cap test points
Confirm that the cables are de-energised (with an approved testing device) before proceeding further.
Cable
Cable surge
arresters
Ensure the surge arresters are disconnected from the cable terminations (if applicable).

Test Connection
A resistor box is generally used in
conjunction with a 500 V insulation
resistance tester to identify the cable end
and phases.
Resistor Values
Test Results
Red phase screen
White phase screen
Blue phase screen

Test Connection
Conduct an insulation resistance test for
1 to 10 minutes (subject to the length of
the cable) or until the reading is stable.
This test is to be carried out using a 5 kV
conductor to conductor and conductors to
earth.
Expected Values
Resistance

earth/screen
>200 M

earth/screen
>200 M

earth/screen
>200 M

between phases and earth
>200 M
5. HIGH VOLTAGE (HIPOT) TEST

A) Phase-to-Earth Test
B) Phase-to-Phase Test
Cable-designated or
system voltage
Between all conductors-tosheath belted cables
Cable-designated or
system voltage
Between all conductors-tosheath belted cables
3.8/6.6 kV
12.0 kV
3.8/6.6 kV
16.0 kV
6.35/11 kV
20.0 kV
6.35/11 kV
27.0 kV
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5.A PHASE-TO-EARTH (LEAD AND ARMOUR TOGETHER) TEST

This test can be performed using a single-output (negative) hipot tester or a positive and negative output hipot tester.
Bond all phase conductors and connect to the negative output of the hipot test set. Apply DC high voltage according to the
cable-designated voltage or system voltage, whichever is the lesser, for 15 minutes as per the above table. The test is acceptable
only if no breakdown occurs.
kV
All phase conductors to earth (lead and armour together)
Leakage Current
Pass/Fail
5.B PHASE-TO-PHASE TEST

This test shall be performed exclusively using a positive and negative output hipot tester. Both the lead sheath and armour should be
earthed for this test. Apply DC high voltage according to the cable-designated voltage for 15 minutes as per the above table
(Section 5).
Leakage Current
kV
Red to blue
Pass/Fail
Blue to white
Pass/Fail
White to red
Pass/Fail
Paper-Insulated Belted Cables

(as per Western Power procedures DM#2074500v2 )
Connection
Voltage
Test Duration
R+W+B
to
15 min
to
W+B+E
15 min
to
R+B+E
15 min
to
R+W+E
15 min
Start Leakage (mA)
Finish Leakage (mA)
6. INSULATION RESISTANCE TEST (POSTHIPOT TEST)

Test Connection
Conduct an insulation resistance test for
1 to 10 minutes (subject to the length of
the cable) or until the reading is stable.
This test is to be carried out using a 5 kV
conductor to conductor and conductors to
earth.
Expected Values
Resistance

earth/screen
>200 M

earth/screen
>200 M

earth/screen
>200 M

between phases and earth
>200 M

Ensure all the cable connections and terminations are made and tightened to the required manufacturer standard.

I hereby certify that items 1 to 7 have been completed with satisfactory results and transfer control to the network operating
authority.
Testing officer/cable jointer/CPM: ________________________________
Signature: ______________________________________________
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NAC #: ______________________________
Date & time: ______________________________
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Commissioning officer must ensure that all checks are completed and the test results comply with the minimum standards.
I hereby certify that all items have been completed with satisfactory results and transfer control to the project manager.
Commissioning officer: ________________________________________
Signature: ______________________________________________
1.
2.
3.
4.
NAC #: ______________________________
Date & time: ______________________________
Grid).
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2.4 HV paper-insulated screened cable

2.4.1
Purpose
This instruction covers the testing and commissioning of all replacements or new installations of HV
paper-insulated screened cable.
2.4.2
Scope
This instruction must be followed for all HV paper-insulated screened cable installations in Western Powers SWIS
distribution network. All HV paper-insulated cables, including cable joints and terminations, must be tested
following installation, alteration or repair to confirm the insulation levels and integrity of the cable system.
2.4.3
References
AS/NZS 10262004: Electric Cables Impregnated Paper Insulated Working voltages up to 19/33 (36) kV.
DM# 2074388v2: Testing of High Voltage Paper Screened Cables.
2.4.4
The installer must affix permanent labels to all relevant network equipment such as transformers, switch fuse units
and RMUs, stating the destination of all cables.
authority.
2.4.5
Responsible persons
The tester officer is responsible for carrying out tests in accordance with this instruction and recording all test
results and explanatory comments where relevant.
2.4.6
Resistor box
a single-output (DC negative) hipot tester for a test voltage of up to 60 kV
a positive/negative output DC hipot tester for a test voltage of up to 27 kV
Paper-insulated cables may be of belted or screened construction. There are many belted 6.6 kV and 11 kV
cables in service and they will remain for a long time. All paper-insulated cables connected to system voltages
greater than 11 kV are of screened construction. (Belted cables are not manufactured for system voltages
greater than 11 kV.)
Test the cable:
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2.4.7
Test criteria
Faults mainly occur in these cables from core to earth because each core is continuously wrapped in metal foil
(the screen). The only exception to this is at the cable terminations, where the foil is cut back. This creates a
small risk of a core-to-core fault at this location.
HV paper-insulated screened cables must be subjected to the following tests:

The insulation resistance is tested using a 5 kV insulation resistance tester connected conductor to conductor and
between conductors to sheath. Record the measured values.
M are acceptable.
2.4.7.3 Hipot test
A single-output (negative) tester must be used for all conductors to screen hipot tests. Conductors must be
connected to the negative output.
In accordance with the cable-designated voltage or system voltage, whichever is the lesser, apply the
recommended test DC voltage for 15 minutes R to W+B+E. The conductor screens and metallic cable sheath are
earthed. The test is acceptable if no breakdown occurs.
Cable-designated
or system voltage
kV
Test DC voltage applied for 15 minutes

between conductors and earth
New cables kV
Service-aged cables kV
6.35/11
25.0
20.0
12.7/22
50.0
40.0
19/33
75.0
60.0
Note: The test DC voltage is based on Table B3 of AS/NZS 1026 2004 with a derating factor of 0.8 for serviceaged cables older than 3 years.
2.4.8
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
testing schedule.
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2.4 HIGH VOLTAGE PAPER-INSULATED SCREENED CABLE
paper-insulated screened cable.
Note: The following tests must be carried out after installation, repair or jointing and before the cable is put into service.
Work Package No.:________________ SPIDAWeb Pick ID:_____________ Test Site: ________________
Location of the cable (from): _______________________________________________________________
(to): _______________________________________________________________
Rated voltage:
kV
m
Size of the cable:
mm
Cable function:
Transformer cable
Feeder cable

Ring main
switch
N/A
Ring main
earth switch
N/A
Cap test
points
Confirm the cables are de-energised (with an approved testing device) before proceeding
further.
Cable
Cable surge
arresters
Ensure the surge arresters are disconnected from the cable terminations (if applicable).

Test Connection
Resistor Values
Test Results
Red phase screen
White phase screen
Blue phase screen

reading is stable.
tester between each phase conductor
and the corresponding cable screen.
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Test Connection
Expected Values

earth/screen
>200 M
White (red & blue) phase &

earth/screen
>200 M

earth/screen
>200 M

>200 M
DM# 10701697
Resistance
DCWI
5. HIGH VOLTAGE (HIPOT) TEST

Conduct a phase-to-sheath/earth test (with the screen, lead and armour together as per Western Power procedures
(DM# 2074388v2)).
This test can be performed using a single-output (negative) hipot tester or a positive and negative output hipot tester.
Bond all phase conductors and connect to the negative output of the hipot test set. Apply DC HV according to the cabledesignated voltage or system voltage, whichever is the lesser, for 15 minutes as per the table below. The test is
acceptable only if no breakdown occurs.
Cable-designated or
System Voltage (kV)
New Cables (kV)
Service-aged Cables (kV)
6.35/11.0
25.0
20.0
12.7/22.0
50.0
40.0
19.0/33.0
75.0
60.0
kV
Pass/Fail
All phase conductors to earth (screen, lead and armour together)
Leakage Current
A
Paper-Insulated Screened Cables (as per Western Power procedures)

Connection
Voltage
Test Duration
Start Leakage (mA)
Finish Leakage (mA)
Test Connection
Expected Values
Resistance

earth/screen
>200 M
White (red & blue) phase &

earth/screen
>200 M

earth/screen
>200 M

>200 M
to
W+B+E
15 min
to
R+B+E
15 min
to
R+W+E
15 min
6. INSULATION RESISTANCE TEST (POSTHIPOT TEST)

reading is stable.
tester between each phase conductor
and the corresponding cable screen.

Ensure all the cable connections and terminations are made and tightened to the required manufacturer standard.

manager.
Testing officer/cable jointer/CPM: _______________________________
Signature:______________________________________________
DM# 10701697
NAC #: _____________________
Date & time: _____________________
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standards.
Signature:______________________________________________
1.
2.
3.
4.
NAC #: _____________________
Date & time: _____________________
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2.5 LV XLPE cable

2.5.1
Purpose
This instruction covers the testing and commissioning of all replacements or new installations of LV XLPE cable.
2.5.2
Scope
This instruction is required to be followed for all XLPE-insulated LV cable installations in Western Powers SWIS
All LV cables, including cable joints and terminations (pillar, frames ), must be tested following installation,
alteration, and repair or jointing to confirm the insulation levels and integrity of the cable system.
2.5.3
References
AS/NZS 49612003: Electric Cables Polymeric Insulated For distribution and service applications.
2.5.4
units, stating the destination of all cables.
authority.
2.5.5
Responsible persons
The project manager or officer in charge must be responsible for the performance of testing in accordance with
this instruction.
The testing officer must be responsible for carrying out tests in accordance with this instruction and recording
all test results and additional comments where relevant.
2.5.6
Resistor box
Test the cable:
2.5.7
Test criteria
Testing must be carried out on each identified circuit as follows:
After all cables are terminated and all MEN links and N-E connections are disconnected or open, test the endto-end phasing, the insulation resistance and the sheath integrity.
The readings for each test must be recorded on the Low Voltage XLPE Cable Distribution Commissioning
Work Instruction Form.
At the completion of each cable section and prior to the connection of any MEN links and N-E connections
installations, test the insulation resistance of each conductor and the sheath integrity.

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Use a 1 kV insulation resistance tester (never use 5 kV insulation tester for this test) for 1 minute between
conductor to conductor and conductor to neutral. Values greater than 10 M for new cable and 1 M for existing
cables are acceptable. This test may not be practical for existing cables because of connected services. Test and
record the insulation resistance values. Measured value of 10 M or greater is acceptable at the point of handover
of a clean circuit from the construction authority (cable installer) to the commissioning authority. If energisation
does not follow immediately after commissioning prior to energisation (assuming that sufficient time has lapsed
between the handover and the energisation period), the insulation resistance test must be repeated, and measured
values of not less than 1 M (to AS/NZS 3000 Rule 6.3.3.3.2) must be obtained.
With all earth leads MEN links/N-E connections disconnected, test the sheath integrity using an insulation
resistance tester connected neutral screen (Nscr) to earth. For testing purposes, use an effective earthed reference
point spaced more than 2 meters from any electrically conductive object embedded in the ground. Record the
value. Measured values of 10 M or greater for new cables and >1 M for existing cables are acceptable.
This test confirms the integrity of the cable sheath. Damaged or punctured sheaths allow moisture to enter the
cable. Use a 1 kV insulation resistance tester for 1 minute with all the neutral connections disconnected within the
circuit of the cable being tested.
If the sheath integrity is <10 M for new cable and <1 M for existing cable, then notify the appropriate authorities
for further testing or repair; otherwise proceed.
Note: Conduct a final insulation resistance test between all phases and the neutral/earth on all LV circuits before
energising them for the first time. If energisation does not follow immediately after two weeks of the commissioning
tests, conduct a final insulation resistance to ensure that the circuit is safe to be energised.
2.5.8
testing schedule.
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2.5 LOW VOLTAGE XLPE CABLE
Purpose: This instruction covers the testing and commissioning of all replacements or new installations of low voltage
cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) cable.
Note: The following tests must be carried out after installation, alteration, repair or jointing and before the cable is put
into service.
Work Package No.:_______________ SPIDAWeb Pick ID: _____________Test Site: _______________
Location of the cable (from): _____________________________________________________________
(to): _____________________________________________________________
Size of the cable:
mm
Aluminium
Copper

Check that the cable is installed correctly.
Confirm that the cable is de-energised (with an approved testing device) before proceeding further.
Disconnect the relevant MEN link and N-E connections for the cable under test.
3. END-TO-END AND PHASING TEST
Test Connection
Resistor Values
Test Results
Red phase neutral
White phase neutral
Blue phase neutral

for 1 minute from conductor to
conductor and from conductor to
neutral (never use 5 kV insulation
testers for this test).
Values greater than 10 M for new
cables and 1 M for existing cables
are acceptable.
This test may not be practical for
existing cables because of connected
services.
Test Connection
Minimum Values
Test Results
Red phase - white phase
>10 M/1 M
White phase - blue phase
>10 M/1 M
Blue phase - red phase
>10 M/1 M
Red phase - neutral
>10 M/1 M
White phase - neutral
>10 M/1 M
Blue phase - neutral
>10 M/1 M
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5. SHEATH INTEGRITY TEST: NEUTRAL-TO-EARTH TEST AT 1 KV
This test confirms the integrity of the cable sheath.
Damaged or punctured sheaths allow moisture to enter the cable.
Use a 1 kV insulation resistance tester for 1 minute with all the neutral connections
disconnected within the circuit of the cable being tested.
_______ M
If the sheath integrity is <10 M for new cable or <1 M for existing cable, report
unsatisfactory results to the appropriate authorities for further testing or repair.
For testing purposes, use an effective earthed reference point spaced more than 2 meters from
any electrically conductive object embedded in the ground.
6. REINSTATEMENT OF CONNECTIONS
Reinstate all connections which were disconnected as per item 2 above.
YES
NO
Note: If NO (Remarks/comments) _____________________________________________________________________________

If energisation does not immediately follow the commissioning tests, conduct a final insulation resistance test to
ensure that the circuit is safe to be energised.
manager.
Testing officer/cable jointer/CPM: _______________________________
Signature:____________________________________________________
NAC #: _____________________
Date: ______________________
8. PHASE-OUT TEST
If the LV network is to be interconnected with another LV network, phase out at the normally open point; otherwise
phase out as required; with phase out tester for energised. Otherwise, with resistor box for de-energised circuits.
standards.
manager.
Signature:____________________________________________________
1.
2.
3.
4.
NAC #: _____________________
Date: ______________________
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2.6 LV cable with/without pillars

2.6.1
Purpose
This instruction covers the testing and commissioning of all replacements or new installations of LV XLPE cable
with or without pillars.
2.6.2
Scope
This instruction must be followed for all LV cable installations in Western Powers SWIS distribution network.
All LV cables, including cable joints and terminations (pillar, frames), must be tested following installation, alteration
or repair (including under fault situations) to confirm the insulation levels and integrity of the cable system.
2.6.3
References
None.
2.6.4
units, stating the destination of all cables.
authority.
2.6.5
Responsible persons
The project manager or officer in charge must be responsible for the performance of testing in accordance with
this instruction.
The testing officer must be responsible for carrying out tests in accordance with this instruction and recording
all test results and additional comments where relevant.
2.6.6
Resistor box
Test the cable:
2.6.7
Test criteria
Testing must be carried out on each identified circuit as follows:
After all cables are terminated and all MEN links and N-E connections are disconnected/open, test the end-toend phasing, the insulation resistance and the sheath integrity.
The readings for each test must be recorded on the Low Voltage Cable With/Without Pillars Distribution
Commissioning Work Instruction Form.
At the completion of each cable section and prior to the connection of any MEN links and N-E connections
installations, test the insulation resistance of each conductor and the sheath integrity.
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This test verifies the continuity of the circuit. If using Western Power equipment, connect the four-lead resistor
boxes at the beginning of the cable.
Example: At the transformers LV connection point, between phases and neutral, carry out the testing using a
500 V insulation resistance tester at the pillars.
Correct resistance values should be measured between R-N, W-N, B-N, respectively. A value of more than 10 M
should be measured between N-E.
Use a 1 kV insulation resistance tester (never use 5 kV insulation tester for this test) for 1 minute between
conductor to conductor and conductor to neutral. Values greater than 10 M for new cable and 1 M for existing
cables are acceptable. This test may not be practical for existing cables because of connected services.
Ensure all persons are clear of the circuit before testing. Test and record the insulation resistance values measured
using an insulation resistance tester. Measured value of 10 M or greater is acceptable at the point of handover of
a clean circuit from the construction authority (cable installer) to the commissioning authority.
If energisation does not follow immediately after commissioning prior to energisation (assuming that sufficient time
has lapsed between the handover and the energisation period), the insulation resistance test must be repeated,
and measured values of not less than 1 M (to AS/NZS 3000 Rule 6.3.3.3.2) must be obtained.
With all MEN links and N-E connections disconnected, test the sheath integrity using an insulation resistance tester
connected neutral screen (Nscr) to earth. For testing purposes, use an effective earthed reference point spaced
more than 2 meters from any electrically conductive object embedded in the ground. Measure and record values.
Measured values of 10 M or greater for new cables and >1 M for existing cables are acceptable.
This test confirms the integrity of the cable sheath. Damaged or punctured sheaths allow moisture to enter the
cable. Use a 1 kV insulation resistance tester for 1 minute with all the neutral connections disconnected within the
circuit of the cable being tested.
If the sheath integrity is <10 M for new cable and <1 M for existing cable, notify appropriate authorities for
further testing or repair; otherwise proceed.
2.6.8
1.
2.
All cables must be correctly connected, labelled, protected against mechanical damage, and saddled.
3.
Feeder pillars, mini-pillars and LV connection points should be fitted with locks, where necessary. They must
be checked for public security.
4.
Phase out at the feeder pillars, mini-pillars and LV connection points, because cross-phasing is likely to occur
at these points (see Switching Operators Manual 1).
5.
Before energising a new LV cable, conduct an insulation resistance test to make sure that the cable is in sound
condition.
Note: When conducting an insulation resistance test, remove customer meter fuses in order to obtain a correct
reading. If this is not done, the voltage coil of the customers meter gives a false reading. Operators should
earth out cores between tests and on completion of testing.
6.
Each phase must be energised in turn from remote end and checked at each pillar for correct phasing.
Otherwise, as phase out required
7.
For any interconnection point, cables are identified by labels showing their first points of isolation from that
source. Correct labelling is essential to identify the circuit. (Refer to figure 10-13 of Switching Operators
Manual 1.)
Note: Phase out before closing the LV open point. (Refer to Switching Operators Manual 1.)
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8.
9.

testing schedule.
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2.6 LOW VOLTAGE CABLE WITH/WITHOUT PILLARS
Purpose: This instruction covers the testing and commissioning of all replacements or new installations of low voltage cross-linked
polyethylene (XLPE) cable with or without pillars.
If the circuit contains more than nine pillars, another set of test sheets must be used.
Work Package No.: _____________________________
Description of equipment
Test Site/Location:___________________________________
Actual quantity
Quantity as per drawings
Working ends
Uni-pillars
Mini-pillars
1. LOCATION OF THE PILLARS (lot no. and road name)

A.
F.
B.
G.
C.
H.
D.
I.
E.
J.
2. CABLE WITHOUT PILLARS (SINGLE RUN) COLUMN X

Size of conductor:
mm
Length of cable (approx):

DESCRIPTION
1
Confirm that the cable is de-energised

(with an approved testing device) before
proceeding.
Check that the pillars finished ground

level is satisfactory.
Check that all the cables and pillars are

correctly installed and that there is no
sign of damage.
Check that there are no loose

connections or unconnected cables in
any of the pillars. Ensure customer
connections are disconnected.
Check that the neutral and phase

conductor arrangement inside the pillars
is correct.
Check that the neutral screens are all

solidly and separately bolted to the
neutral bar/block.
Check that all the cables are correctly

connected in accordance with the design
drawings and protected against
mechanical damage.
Check that the labelling is correct as per

the standard.
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N/A
N/A
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Normally open point (NOP).
Cables are identified by labels

that show their first points of
isolation from that source.
NOP 1
Check the labelling to identify

the correct circuit in all pillars
NOP 2
N/A
Ensure that red reflective labels

are placed on the outside of the
uni-pillars.
NOP 3
N/A
10
Check that no cables are exposed and

backfill if required.
11
Check that the final positions of the top

and bottom busbars of the universal
pillars are correctly aligned to accept
fuses or links.
12
Disconnect the neutral of the cable under

test from MEN and NE connections.
4. CONTINUITY AND PHASING TEST

This test verifies the continuity of the circuit. If using Western Power equipment, connect the four-lead resistor box at the beginning of
the cable.
Example: At the transformers low voltage connection point, between phases and neutral, carry out the test using a 500 V insulation
resistance tester at the pillars.
Correct resistance values should be measured between R-N, W-N, and B-N, respectively.
A value of more than 10 M should be measured between N-E.
(Ensure all the MEN link and N-E connections at the uni-pillars, mini-pillars and low voltage connection points are
disconnected for this test.)
Red phase
Resistor box values (M):
DESCRIPTION
White phase
Blue phase
Red - neutral
White - neutral
Blue - neutral
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5. INSULATION RESISTANCE TEST (DISCONNECT THE RESISTOR BOX IN PREPARATION FOR INSULATION
RESISTANCE TEST)
Note: If an NOP is in the circuit, relocate the resistor box.
This test is to be carried out using a 1 kV (never use 5 kV insulation testers for this test) between phase to phase, phase to
neutral, and neutral to earth for 1 minute.
Values greater than 10 M for new cables and 1 M for existing cables are acceptable.
Ensure that all persons are clear of the circuit before testing.
DESCRIPTION
Red - white
White - blue
Blue - red
Red - neutral
White - neutral
Blue - neutral
6. SHEATH INTEGRITY TEST: NEUTRAL-TO-EARTH TEST AT 1 KV

This test confirms the integrity of the cable sheath. Damaged or punctured sheaths allow moisture to enter the cable. Use a 1 kV
insulation resistance tester for 1 minute with all the neutral connections disconnected within the circuit of the cable being tested.
If the sheath integrity is <10 M for new cables or <1 M for existing cables, report unsatisfactory results to the appropriate
authorities for further testing or repair; otherwise proceed.
DESCRIPTION
Neutral - earth
7. REINSTATEMENT OF ALL MEN LINKS AND N-E CONNECTIONS AND INSULATION RESISTANCE TEST
BETWEEN PHASES AND NEUTRAL
Reinstate all connections which were disconnected as per item 4 above.
Yes
No
Note: A final insulation resistance test must be performed between all phases and neutral/earth on all low voltage circuits before
energising for the first time.
If energisation occurs more than two weeks after this commissioning test, conduct a final insulation resistance test to ensure the
cable is safe to energise.

I hereby certify that items 1 to 7 have been completed with satisfactory results and transfer control to the project manager.
Testing officer/cable jointer/CPM: ______________________________________
Signature: ____________________________________________________
NAC #: ________________________
Date & time: ________________________
9. ENERGISATION
Ensure that all persons and equipment are clear of the circuit and all pillars and units are
secured.
Check that the LV fuses are correct (if applicable).
Energise the circuit in accordance with the low voltage switching program and record the
switching program number: ____________
Energisation of the
overhead LV network
Conduct a service connection test on all installations where the service connections have been
disturbed.
Phase out at the feeder pillars, mini-pillars and LV connection points, because cross-phasing is
likely to occur at these points.
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Red red
White white
Blue blue
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Acceptable results
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The commissioning officer must ensure that checks are completed and test results comply with the minimum standards.
Signature: _________________________________________________________
1.
2.
3.
4.
NAC #: ________________________
Date: ________________________
Grid).
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2.7 Steel standard streetlights

2.7.1
Purpose
This instruction covers the testing and commissioning of all replacements or new installations of steel standard
streetlights. The testing ensures that cables are installed correctly and that the steel standards do not become
energised.
2.7.2
Scope
This instruction must be followed for all steel standard streetlights to be connected to Western Powers SWIS
2.7.3
References
Australian Standard AS/NZS 30002007: Electrical Installations (known as the Australian/New Zealand Wiring
Rules).
AS 60038 - 2012 Standard voltages
2.7.4
Steel standard streetlights must be installed in accordance with the appropriate guidelines in Distribution
2.7.5

1.
Check and comprehend the handover certificate.
2.
Record the address, work package number, instrument serial number and instrument calibration date.
3.
Verify that all equipment has been installed correctly and is suitable for service.
4.
Check that there are no cables exposed to the public, and backfill if required.
2.7.6
Test criteria
For Class I streetlight installations, use a 1 kV insulation resistance tester (never use 5 kV insulation tester for
this test) for 1 minute between phase to earth, phase to neutral, and neutral to earth.
Values greater than 10 M for new cable and 1 M for existing cables are acceptable.
(Double insulated streetlight installations do not have a MEN connection.)
2.7.6.2 Polarity test
Use a voltmeter between active to line neutral, active to independent earth, and line neutral to independent
earth.
For testing purposes, use an effective earthed reference point spaced a minimum of 2 meters from any
electrically conductive object in the ground.
Active to Line Neutral test values must be between 216253 V.
Active to independent earth test values must be 216253 V.
Line neutral to independent earth test values must be 06 V.
2.7.7
1.
All cables must be correctly connected, labelled, protected against mechanical damage, and saddled.
2.
Feeder pillars, mini-pillars and LV connection points should be fitted with locks, where necessary, and checked
for public security.
Note: If energisation occurs more than two weeks after these commissioning tests, conduct a final insulation
resistance test to ensure the cable is safe to energise.
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3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
testing schedule.
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2.7 STEEL STANDARD STREETLIGHTS
Purpose: This instruction covers the testing and commissioning of all replacements or new installations
of steel standard streetlights. The testing ensures that cables are installed correctly and that the steel standards do not
become energised.
Note: The following tests must be carried out after installation and before the streetlights are put into service.
Work Package No.:______________________
Test Site/Location:________________________
Instrument Serial No.:____________________
Date:_____/______/ 20___
Instrument Calibration Date:_____/_____/ 20_____
1. LOCATION OF STREETLIGHTS (lot no. and road name)

A.
F.
B.
G.
C.
H.
D.
I.
E.
J.
Streetlights supplied from:

Ensure no person makes contact with the steel standard streetlight or the temporary earth electrode while the testing procedures are
being undertaken.

DESCRIPTION
Ensure the point of supply has been isolated and tagged.
Install an independent earth more than 2 metres from the steel

standard. Ensure there are no underground services where
the independent earth is to be located.
Before removing the metal inspection cover, test between the

steel standard and an independent earth to confirm that no
hazardous voltage exists. If a voltage greater than 6 V is
recorded on the test instrument, cease testing, investigate the
source of the voltage or report this to your supervisor. Proceed
if the voltage recorded is less than 6 V.
Check that the streetlight is correctly installed as per the works

package requirements, Distribution Construction Standards
Handbook HB01 and applicable design drawings, and that
there are no signs of damage.
Yes
No
Check that there are no loose connections or unconnected

cables in the streetlight standards.
(Double insulated streetlight installations do not have a MEN
connection.)
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DESCRIPTION
Remove the cut-out which isolates the light from the line phase
and line neutral.
Check that all the cables and streetlight standards are

correctly installed as per the work package and that there are
no signs of damage.
Check that there are no loose connections or unconnected

cables in the streetlight standards.
Disconnect the MEN links and N-E connections on each

Class I streetlight standard where applicable.
connection.)
Use a 1 kV insulation resistance tester for 1 minute at the point of

supply between phase to neutral, phase to earth, and neutral to earth.
Phase to neutral
Phase to earth
Neutral to earth
If a reading is unacceptable, cease testing, investigate the problem or report this to your supervisor. Values greater than 10 M for
new cables and 1 M for existing cables are acceptable. Ensure that all persons are clear of the circuit before testing.
Note: If energisation occurs more than two weeks after these commissioning tests, conduct a final insulation resistance test to ensure
the cable is safe to energise.
4. REINSTATEMENT OF ALL MEN LINKS AND N-E CONNECTIONS

DESCRIPTION
1
Reinstate all the MEN links and N-E connections which were
disconnected as per item 3.4. (Double insulated streetlight
installations do not have a MEN connection.)
5.
HANDOVER OF RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE COMPLETION OF ITEMS 14
authority.
Commissioning Officer:______________________________________________
Signature: ____________________________________________________
NAC #: ________________________
Date & time: ________________________
6. POLARITY TEST (USING A VOLTMETER)

DESCRIPTION
Ensure the cut-outs which isolate the lights from the line phase
and line neutral are removed.
If there is a loop-in loop-out, remove the loop-out phase and

neutral from the cut-out, links or red spot fuse terminals and
separate.
Ensure all streetlight standards are safe to energise and that

each standard is safe for other workers and members of the
public.
Energise the streetlight supply cable at the point of supply.
For testing purposes, use an effective earthed reference point spaced more than 2 meters from any electrically conductive
object embedded in the ground.
Using a voltmeter test between the

line active and line neutral
line active to independent earth
line neutral and independent earth.
U1 Un
216 V 253 V
U1 PE
216 V 253 V
Un PE
0V6V
Reinstate the MEN and N -E at each Class I streetlight

standard after testing has been completed satisfactorily and
ensure everything is secure and safe from third party access.
connection.)
If there is a loop-in loop-out, safely reconnect the active and

neutral in order to carry out the testing of the next streetlight
standard.
Insert a fuse into the cover of the cut-out or red spot fuse (or
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similar) and reinstall.
10
Test between the steel standard and an independent earth to

confirm that no hazardous voltage exists. If a voltage greater
than 6 V is recorded on the test instrument, cease testing,
investigate the source of the voltage or report this to your
supervisor.
Signature: ____________________________________________________
1.
2.
3.
4.
NAC #: ________________________
Date & time: ________________________
Grid).
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2.8 SPUDS single-phase to three-phase pillar

2.8.1
Purpose
This instruction covers the testing and commissioning of a SPUDS single-phase pillar that has been converted to a
standard three-phase pillar.
2.8.2
Scope
This instruction is required to be followed for all SPUDS single-phase to three-phase pillars which are to be
connected to Western Powers SWIS distribution network.
References: AS 60038 - 2012 Standard voltages
2.8.3
The converted three-phase pillar must be installed in accordance with the appropriate guidelines in Distribution
2.8.4

1. Check the handover certificate.
2. Record the address, work package number and location of the pillar.
3. Ensure the point of supply has been isolated and tagged.
4. Check that the streetlight is correctly installed as per the works package requirements and Distribution
Construction Standards Handbook HB01 and that there are no signs of damage.
5. Compare the existing outgoing service connection with the required service connection in the work package.
6. Ensure that the work conforms to the work package in preparation for any load balancing that may be required.
2.8.5
Test criteria

Use a 1 kV insulation resistance tester (never use 5 kV insulation tester for this test) for 1 minute between phase to
earth, phase to neutral, and neutral to earth.
Values greater than 10 M for new cable and 1 M for existing cables are acceptable.
2.8.5.2 Phasing
Use a voltmeter to measure the voltage across the incoming supply terminals at the mini-pillar. Expected values
between phases should be 376440 V; phase to neutral should be 216253 V.
Phase out at the feeder pillars, mini-pillars and LV connection points because cross-phasing is likely to occur at
these points (see Switching Operators manuals).
Conduct a service connection test for each connection and provide a Service Connection Test Form.
2.8.6 Commissioning of the equipment
2. In accordance with section 3.8 of the WA Electrical Requirements, label all underground mains of consumers at
the point of supply.
testing schedule.
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2.8 SPUDS SINGLE-PHASE TO THREE-PHASE PILLAR
Purpose: This instruction covers the testing and commissioning of a SPUDS single-phase pillar that has been converted to a
standard three-phase pillar.
Note 1: The following tests must be carried out at the time of conversion. If the circuit contains more than 10 pillars, use another set
of test sheets.
Note 2: Bolts and screws in all electrical connections across the Western Power network must be properly tightened.
Work Package No.:____________________
Test Site/Location:________________________________
1. LOCATION OF PILLARS (lot no. and road name)

A.
F.
B.
G.
C.
H.
D.
I.
E.
J.

Description
1
4
5
6
7
Check that the construction complies with the

distribution construction standards and applicable
design drawings.
Ensure ALL the customers associated with the
changeover have been identified and their supplies
isolated. (Check that the meter has stopped
recording.)
Separate the customers load neutral from the
meter and use the Do Not Operate Danger tag on
the meter box to indicate that work is being
undertaken.
At the point of supply isolate the single-phase cable
and ensure all bridged conductors are removed.
Remove ALL the customers connections from the
pillars and ensure that they are positively identified.
See note 1 below.
Remove all the bridging links from the pillars: red to
white and blue to neutral.
At the point of supply, undertake the cable
reconfiguration to three phases as per the work
package requirements.
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes

Use a 1 kV insulation resistance tester for 1 minute
at the point of supply between phase to neutral,
phase to earth, and neutral to earth.
ENERGISATION
Check the
phasing and
measure the
voltage at each
pillar with a
voltmeter.
Neutral to earth
Blue red
Red neutral
White blue
White neutral
376 V 440 V
216 V 253 V
Yes
Yes

Red white
Blue neutral
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Phase to earth
Ensure that all persons and equipment are clear of

the circuit and all pillars and units are secured.
Energise the circuit in accordance with the LV
switching program.
Phasing
Phase to neutral
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Reconnect the customers installations in

accordance with the work package phasing
requirements and complete the Service Connection
Test Form for each connection.
Treat all as new connections.
5. PHASE-OUT TEST
Phase out at the feeder pillars, mini-pillars and LV connection points, because cross-phasing is likely to occur at these points.
Red red
White white
Blue blue
Acceptable results
(010V)
Signature: ____________________________________________________
NAC #: ____________
Date & time: ________________________
Note 1: In accordance with section 3.8 of the WA Electrical Requirements, label all underground mains of consumers at the point of
supply.
1.
2.
3.
4.
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2.9 Pole to pillar

2.9.1
Purpose
This instruction covers testing and commissioning of all replacements or new installations of low voltage cable from
the pole of an existing overhead distribution system to a pillar.
2.9.2
Scope
This instruction must be followed for all earth resistance testing in Western Powers SWIS distribution network.
References: AS 60038 - 2012 Standard voltages
2.9.3
Responsible persons
The tester in charge is responsible for carrying out tests in accordance with this instruction and recording all test
results and additional comments where relevant.
2.9.4
Pole to pillar must be installed in accordance with the appropriate guidelines in Distribution Construction Standards
Handbook HB01 and applicable design drawings.
2.9.5

1.
2.
Record the address, work package number and location of the pillar.
3.
Make sure work conforms to the work package in preparation for any load balancing that may be required.
2.9.6
Test criteria

Use a 1 kV insulation resistance tester (never use 5 kV insulation tester for this test) for 1 minute between phase to
phase and phase to neutral. Values must be greater than 10 M. Ensure all persons are clear of the circuit before
testing.
2.9.6.2 Polarity testing
Phase and neutral identification must be carried out using a voltmeter. The pillar has the neutral terminal block as
an independent earth.
For testing purposes, use an effective earthed reference point spaced more than 2 meters from any electrically
conductive object embedded in the ground.
2.9.7
1.
The commissioning officer must sign off on the testing schedule and include the appropriate registration and
licence number where applicable.
2.
3.
4.
5.
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2.9 POLE TO PILLAR
Purpose: This instruction covers the testing and commissioning of all replacements or new installations of low voltage cable from the
pole of an existing overhead distribution system to a pillar.
Note: The following tests must be carried out after the cable and pillar has been installed.
Work Package No.:____________________
Test Site/Location:_____________________________
1. SERVICE ADDRESS (house or lot no. and road name)
2. CABLE
Size of conductor
Pillar size
mm
Mini
Uni
Length of cable (approximately)
Work Package No.
3. PREPARATION
1
Install pillar on the right alignment. Refer to drawings U8, U9, and U19/3 of Distribution Construction
Standards Handbook HB01.
Complete all connections at the service pillar and check for tightness.
Separate the earth conductor from the neutral terminal block at the pillar.
Attach the service cable and conduit to the pole in its final position.
Separate the service cable cores at the pole top for testing.
At the pillar, conduct an insulation test on the service cable and record the results.
Red - white
Use a 1 kV insulation resistance tester for 1 minute between phase to phase and phase
to neutral.
White - blue
Blue - red
Values must be greater than 10 M.
Red - neutral
Ensure that all persons are clear of the circuit before testing.
White - neutral
Blue - neutral
This test confirms the integrity of the cable sheath. Damaged or punctured sheaths allow
moisture to enter the cable. Use a 1 kV insulation resistance tester for 1 minute with all
the neutral connections disconnected within the circuit of the cable being tested.
If the sheath integrity is <10 M for new cable) or <1 M for old cables, notify the
appropriate authorities (construction project manager) for further testing and/or repair;
otherwise proceed.
For testing purposes, use an effective earthed reference point spaced more than
2 meters from any electrically conductive object embedded in the ground.
Neutral - earth
______ M
4. COMMISSIONING
1
Prove the test equipment (voltmeter) is functioning correctly.
Identify neutral and fit a neutral tag (HG 2101) to the aerial mains neutral conductor and the service cable
neutral conductor.
Test between the aerial mains neutral conductor and the service cable neutral conductor.
Connect the service cable neutral conductor to the aerial mains neutral conductor and check for tightness.
Test between the pillar earth electrode and the neutral terminal block at the pillar.
Value <6 V
Volts
Test between the neutral terminal block at the pillar to the red, white and blue terminals
block at the pillar.
Value <6 V
Volts
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Value <6 V
Volts
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Connect the blue-phase service conductor to the blue-phase aerial mains conductor and check for tightness.
Test between the pillar earth electrode and the blue terminal block at the pillar.
Value 216253 V
Volts
10
Test between the neutral terminal block at the pillar to the red and white terminal block at
the pillar.
Value <6.0 V
Volts
11
Connect the white-phase service conductor to the white-phase aerial mains conductor and check for
tightness.
12
Test between the pillar earth electrode and the white terminal block at the pillar.
Value 216253 V
Volts
13
Test between the neutral terminal block at the pillar to the red terminal block at the pillar.
Value <6.0 V
Volts
14
Connect the red-phase service conductor to the red-phase aerial mains conductor and check for tightness.
15
Test between the pillar earth electrode and the red terminal block at the pillar.
16
Reconnect the earth conductor to the neutral terminal block at the pillar and check for tightness.
17
18
19
Test between the neutral terminal at the

pillar and the following:
Test between the red, white and blue

terminals at the pillar.
Value 216253 V
Volts
Red terminal at the pillar
Value 216253 V
Volts
White terminal at the pillar
Value 216253 V
Volts
Blue terminal at the pillar
Value 216253 V
Volts
Red to white terminal at the pillar
Value 376440 V
Volts
White to blue terminal at the pillar
Value 376440 V
Volts
Blue to red terminal at the pillar
Value 376440 V
Volts
Conduct a phase sequence test to prove correct phase rotation.
Note: A low impedance voltmeter may give a high reading of volts on an unconnected phase when one phase is energised.
If voltage exists above 6 V on items 2, 4, 5, 8, and 11, stop immediately and commence a fault-finding procedure.
Signature: ___________________________________________________
1.
2.
3.
4.
NAC #: ________________________
Date & time: ________________________
Grid).
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Section 3 Distribution transformers

The intention of this section is to provide details of commissioning requirements for distribution transformers. This
section currently contains details of:
1. Modular package substation (MPS) transformer
2. Non-MPS transformer
3. Single-phase transformer (pole-mounted/pad-mounted)
4. Three-phase pole-mounted transformer
5. Single-wire earth return (SWER) isolation transformer (pole-mounted)
6. SWER isolation transformer (ground-mounted).
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3.1 MPS distribution transformer

3.1.1
Purpose
This instruction covers the testing and commissioning of all replacements or new installations of MPS distribution
transformers up to 750 kVA before energisation. The testing should verify that the equipment:
has not been damaged in transit
has been installed in the network correctly
operates to specification and is suitable for service.
Operators manuals and the switchgear manufacturers operating and commissioning manual and AS 60038 2012 Standard voltages.
3.1.2
Decommissioning checks
Decommissioning checks must be completed on existing transformers before they are replaced. These checks are
essential for ensuring that the connections on the new transformer are the same as the previous transformer.
3.1.3
3.1.3.1 Distribution transformers

Distribution transformers must be installed in accordance with the appropriate guidelines in the Underground
Distribution Systems Policy and Installation Manual and applicable design drawings.
On completion, the installer must issue an earth testing schedule and handover certificate to the project manager.
3.1.3.2 Underground cables
1.
The cable links between the HV ring main switchgear, the transformer and the LV switchgear must be installed,
terminated and jointed in accordance with the appropriate standards and guidelines as documented in the
Underground Distribution Systems Policy and Installations Options Manual.
2.
As minimum, the installer must affix temporary labels to all relevant network equipment such as transformers
and switch fuse units, stating the destinations of all cables.
3.
On completion, the installer must issue HV and LV cable testing schedules and a handover certificate to the
3.1.4
The following checklist must be completed prior to commencement of any commissioning activities:
1.
Verify (on site) that the equipment has been installed correctly and is suitable for service.
2.
Check that the transformer tap is at the position as per network planning or the previously installed transformer.
3.
Check the transformer handover certificate.
4.
Check the cable handover certificate.

Note: In most cases, a combined handover certificate is issued for the transformer and cables.
5.
If the cable is to be laid by the customer, then before responsibility is handed over to Western Power for the
jointing conduct a pre-acceptance test (insulation resistance test) to determine the state of the cable.
6.
Check that the earthing grid is installed as required in the Distribution Substation Manual.
7.
Check all earthing connections to the transformer.
8.
Check the earthing testing schedule. (Refer to the earth resistance testing.)
9.
Check the HV and LV cable testing schedule.
10. Check that the SPIDAWeb pick ID numbers for each item are in accordance with the as-constructed drawings.
11. Check and record the address/pole number and work package number.
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12. Check the integrity of the transformer tank and assembly for oil leaks.
13. Check new MPS transformer installations, to make sure that all phase and earth/neutral connections are
securely bolted.
14. For MPS transformer changeovers that occur, once the new transformer is installed and while the kiosk is still
removed visually and physically check that all phase connections have been reconnected to the correct
bushings. Once a team member has completed this step, a second team member must complete this step
again to confirm connections.
3.1.5
Test criteria

Use a 2.5 kV for HV and 1 kV for LV insulation resistance tester for 1 minute to test the insulation resistance on the
transformer winding and the LV board busbar.
The insulation resistance values are acceptable if greater than 1 G at 2.5 kV for HV winding and greater than
100 M at 1 kV for LV winding.
3.1.5.2 Phase-out test
A phase-out test is conducted under NOCC switching schedules on points of the LV network where the potential of
the energised transformer can be matched with the potential of another energised transformer. This test is
conducted to ensure interconnections of transformers are made or can be made for operational purposes.
If the LV conductors are energised from an interconnected transformer, conduct a phase-out test at the new
transformers LV disconnector or fuse box.
If the LV conductors are not energised and for sole use, conduct the phase-out as required

1.
Prepare a commissioning program to energise the equipment in accordance with Switching Operators
Manual 1 and the switching program.
2.
Conduct insulation and phasing tests and record the results.
3.
Verify that the temporary cable destination and transformer labels are correct.
4.
Carry out the commissioning program as per the switching program number.
5.
Measure the no-load secondary voltage of the transformer to ensure that it meets the statutory voltage
requirements at the supply side of the LV disconnector.
6.
Check that the phase rotation and synchronisation are correct.

Note: The commissioning program for the transformer may be incorporated into the commissioning program
for the ring main switchgear.
7.
Check and record the final no-load voltage on each phase of the LV of the transformer.
8.
Check and record the load voltage on each phase of the LV of the transformer.
9.
Connect the load as per the switching program.
10. Measure the secondary voltage with load.

11. Check and record the final tap position of the transformer.
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12. Replace the temporary cable destination and transformer labels with permanent labels on the transformer as
detailed in Distribution Equipment Labelling Network Standard NS 05-2000.

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3.1 MPS DISTRIBUTION TRANSFORMER
Purpose: This instruction covers the testing and commissioning of all replacements or new installations of modular package
substation (MPS) pad-mounted transformers up to 750 kVA before energisation.
Note: The following tests and checks must be carried out after installation and before the transformer is put into service.
Primary
Secondary
Address/Pole No.: _______________________________________________________________
winding
a winding
A
Work Package No.:_________________ SPIDAWeb Pick ID: ____________________________

a)
b)
c)
Ensure that the earth resistance has been tested and is acceptable.
Ensure all electrical connections have been disconnected, including MEN/N-E connections.
Measure the insulation resistance test results after 1 minute of testing.
Test Connection
Test Voltage
Resistance
Insulation resistance
test on the transformer
winding
(Short circuit all winding
terminals of the source
of the same voltage
level together.)
test on the low voltage
(LV) board busbar (LV
fuse ways open,
including the
transformer LV
disconnector)
Expected Values
2.5 kV
_______
>1 G
Primary/HV to secondary/LV
1 kV
_______
>100 M
Secondary/LV to tank
1 kV
_______
>100 M
Red to white phase
1 kV
_______
>100 M
White to blue phase
1 kV
_______
>100 M
Blue to red phase
1 kV
_______
>100 M
Red phase to earth
1 kV
_______
>100 M
White phase to earth
1 kV
_______
>100 M
Blue phase to earth
1 kV
_______
>100 M
Primary/high voltage (HV) to tank

Transformer installed as per construction standards and applicable design drawings.
Transformer matches system voltage.
Inspect the following:
rating plate
tank and bushings
tap setting
oil level
HV terminations
LV terminations
neutral connection
MEN/N-E
connections
Transformer tap is at the position as per network planning.

Transformer oil level satisfactory (if visible).
Transformer bushings and tank in good condition (no oil leaks).
HV cables properly terminated and connected.
The dead end plugs are correctly installed (transformers with 2 sets of HV bushings).
LV cables properly terminated and connected.
Neutral connected and earthed and MEN/N -E link connected.
All SPIDAWeb labels fitted and numbered correctly as per SPIDAWeb sheet.
LV lead connections to the transformer LV bushings are correct as per construction standards
(as per manufactures for new connection) or as per markings in item 3.1.4.14 of the
decommissioning sheet (for replacement transformers).
3. HANDOVER OF RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE COMPLETION OF ITEMS 1 & 2

I hereby certify that items 1 and 2 have been completed with satisfactory results and transfer control to the network operating
authority.
Commissioning Officer : __________________________________
NAC #: ________________________________
Signature: _____________________________________________ Date & time: _________________________________
DM# 10701697
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4. ENERGISATION OF TRANSFORMER WITHOUT LOAD
Check that the HV fuses are correct.
Energisation of a
transformer without load
(LV fuse ways open,
including the
transformer LV
disconnector)
Energise transformer as per the switching program (and check for abnormal noise).
Measured secondary voltages phase to neutral within acceptable range (216253 V):
R N _______ volts, W N _______ volts, B N _______ volts.
Measured secondary voltage between phases within acceptable range (376440 V):
R W _______ volts, W B _______ volts, B R _______ volts.
Phase rotation test result: _______________
Phase rotation test

(123 or ABC or RWB)
5. PHASE-OUT TEST
Conduct a phase-out
test on open points of
the LV network where
the LV supply is coming
from another
transformer.
Conduct the phase-out test under NOCC switching schedules on points of the LV network where the
potential of the energised transformer can be matched with the potential of another energised
transformer. This test ensures interconnections of transformers are made or can be made for
operational purposes.
If the LV conductors are energised from an interconnected transformer, conduct the phase-out
test at the new transformers LV disconnector or fuse box.
If the LV conductors are not energised, proceed to item 6 (ENERGISATION OF

TRANSFORMER WITH LOAD) and conduct the phase-out test on normally open points where it
can be interconnected from another transformer.
6. ENERGISATION OF TRANSFORMER WITH LOAD

Close the LV disconnector.
Check that the LV fuse switches are correct and energise the LV circuits as per the switching
program.
Energisation of a
transformer with load
(close the LV
disconnector before
closing the fuse ways)
Ensure that the measured secondary voltage for phase to neutral is within an acceptable range
(216253 V):
R N _______ V, W N _______ V, B N _______ V.
Ensure that the measured secondary voltage between phases is within an acceptable range
(376440 V):
R W _______ V, W B _______ V, B R _______ V.
disturbed.
NAC #: ________________________________
1.
2.
3.
4.
Grid).
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DISTRIBUTION DECOMMISSIONING WORK INSTRUCTION
3.1 MPS DISTRIBUTION TRANSFORMER
Purpose: This instruction covers the decommissioning of all energised existing three-phase modular package
substation (MPS) distribution transformers up to 750 kVA.
Note: The following tests and checks must be carried out when removing existing three-phase
Primary
Secondary
winding
MPS distribution transformers or before they are replaced.
a winding
A
Address/Pole No.: _________________________________________________________
Work Package No.:___________________ SPIDAWeb Pick ID: _____________________
2. DECOMMISSIONING OF AN EXISTING TRANSFORMER

Before de-energising the existing transformer, conduct a phase rotation test on the LV
side of the transformer and record results below (if applicable):
Phase rotation test result: __________________.
The phase rotation test result must be 123/ABC/RWB.
Check the following to
decommission an
existing transformer.
If phasing is identified as being transposed during this test and there is no phase
marking or phase transposition marking on the high voltage and secondary cable
terminals, attach a caution label warning tag to inform the next person of the
transposed phase position.
De-energise the transformer high voltage and low voltage as per the switching
program. Record the switching program number:
_______________________________________
Confirm that the transformer has been de-energised, install program earths, and issue
permit.
3. HANDOVER OF RESPONSIBILITY TO THE TRANSFORMER REPLACEMENT TEAM LEADER

I hereby certify that item 1 has been completed with the above results in accordance with NOCC instructions and
transfer control to the person in charge of replacing the transformer.
Name: ____________________________________________________
Signature:______________________________________________
NAC #: _____________________
Date & time: _____________________
4. PRE-REMOVAL CHECKS
Before disconnecting the low voltage leads, check for any phase marking or phase
transposition marking or caution label on the high voltage and secondary cable
terminals. Verify by tracing the low voltage leads on the transformers, identify the
Before removing an
phase colours on the existing transformer and mark or tag each lead with coloured
existing transformer,
tape.
check the following:
Check the tap setting of the existing transformer and record results below:
Tap switch position: ______.
5. HANDOVER OF RESPONSIBILITY TO THE COMMISSIONING OFFICER
I hereby certify that item 3 has been completed with the above results and transfer control to the commissioning
officer.
Team Leader:_______________________________________________
Signature:______________________________________________
DM# 10701697
NAC #: _____________________
Date & time: _____________________
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3.2 Non-MPS distribution transformer

3.2.1
Purpose
This instruction covers the testing and commissioning of all replacements or new installations of non-MPS
distribution transformers up to 1,000 kVA before energisation. The testing should verify that the equipment:
Operators Manual 1 and the switchgear manufacturers operating and commissioning manual and AS 60038 2012 Standard voltages.
3.2.2
Complete the decommissioning checks on existing transformers before replacing them. These checks are essential
for ensuring that the connections on the new transformer are the same as those on the previous transformer.
3.2.3

1.
2.
3.
Insulation and phasing tests must be carried out and the results recorded.
4.
3.2.4

1.
Go to the site and verify that the equipment has been installed correctly and is suitable for service.
2.
3.
Check and comprehend the transformer handover certificate.
4.
Check and comprehend the cable handover certificate.

Note: In most cases a combined handover certificate is issued for the transformer and cables.
Note: Bolts and screws in all electrical connections across the Western Power network must be properly
tightened.
5.
6.
7.
8.
Check the earthing testing schedule. (Defer to the earth resistance testing.)
9.
Check the HV and LV cable testing schedule.
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12. Check the integrity of the transformer tank and assembly for oil leaks.
13. For new non-MPS transformer installations, visually check that all phase and earth/neutral connections are
securely bolted.
14. For non-MPS transformer changeovers that occur, once the new transformer is installed and while the kiosk is
still removed, visually and physically check that all phase connections have been reconnected to the correct
bushings. Once a team member has completed this step, a second team member must complete this step
again to confirm connections.
16. Check that unused bushings are fitted with proper bushing inserts and are correctly capped.
Note: Do not confuse with caps fitted from factory since these are not rated.
17. Check that drain wires are connected to all HV elbow connectors and connected to the cable screen. This
ensures the elbows are safe to touch.

18. Check that the HV screens are all solidly and separately bolted to the HV earth bar.
19. Check that all elbow connectors are fitted with correct bailing assemblies and are secure.
20. Check that the neutrals are reconnected and that earth and the MEN/N-E connections are reconnected.
21. If the transformer is for the sole use of a single customer and has multiple LV single-core cables on each
phase, check that none of the cores have been inadvertently crossed between phases; otherwise a short circuit
of the transformer occurs when the equipment is energised.
22. Check that there are no cables exposed to the public, and backfill if required.
23. Check the site for erosion around the transformer. If so, then backfill with blue metal or crushed limestone.
24. Open all LV fuse ways, including the transformer disconnector.
25. Check that all LV neutral connections are connected to the LV neutral bar, not the earth bar.
26. Check that the transformer is set to the correct HV tap setting.
3.2.5
Test criteria

Use a 2.5 kV and 1 kV insulation resistance tester for 1 minute to test the insulation resistance on the transformer
winding.
If the LV conductors are energised from an interconnected transformer, conduct the phase-out test at the new
transformers LV disconnector or fuse box.
If the LV conductors are not energised and for sole use, conduct the phase-out as required
3.2.6
1.
2.
Verify that the temporary cable destination and transformer labels are correct.
3.
Carry out the commissioning program as per the switching program number.
4.
requirements.
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5.
Check that the phase sequence and synchronisation are correct.

for the HV ring main switchgear.
6.
Check and record the final no-load voltage on each phase of the LV of the transformer.
7.
Check and record the final tap position of the transformer.
Connect the load as per the switching program and ensure that the transformer is not interconnected with any
other downstream.
Replace the temporary cable destination and transformer labels with permanent labels on the transformer as
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
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3.2 NON-MPS DISTRIBUTION TRANSFORMER
Purpose: This instruction covers the testing and commissioning all replacements or new installations of non-modular package
substation (non-MPS) ground-mounted transformers up to 1,000 kVA before energisation.
Note: The following tests and checks must be carried after installation and before the transformer is put into service.
Primary
Secondary
Note: Bolts and screws in all electrical connections across the Western Power network must be
winding
a winding
A
properly tightened.
Address/Pole No.: ________________________________________________________________
Work Package No.:_________________ SPIDAWeb Pick ID: _____________________________

Earth resistance
Insulation resistance test
on the transformer
winding
Measure resistance after
1 minute of testing for a
stable reading.
terminals of the source of
the same voltage level
together.)
Ensure that the earth resistance test has been completed with acceptable results prior to
commissioning.
Ensure that the high voltage (HV) and low voltage (LV) windings of the transformer are deenergised.
Disconnect all connections on transformer HV and LV bushings, including the MEN/N-E
connections.
Test Connection
Test Voltage
Resistance
Expected Results
2.5 kV
_________
>1 G
Primary/HV to
Secondary/LV
1 kV
_________
>100 M
1 kV
_________
>100 M
Primary/HV to tank

Transformer tap is at the position as per network planning or previously installed transformer.
rating plate
tank and bushings
tap setting
oil level
HV terminations
LV terminations
neutral connection
Transformer oil level satisfactory (if visible).
MEN/N-E
connections
Neutral connected and earthed on transformer earth bar (MEN/N-E connections).

HV cables properly terminated and connected on transformer HV bushings, if applicable.
LV cables properly terminated and connected on transformer LV bushings, if applicable.
LV lead connections to the transformer LV bushings are correct as per construction
standards (for new connection) or as per markings in item 3.1.4.14 of the decommissioning
sheet (for replacement transformers).

authority.
Commissioning Officer : __________________________________
NAC #: ________________________________
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Check HV fuses are correct. Record fuse rating: __________ A.
Check that the

transformer LV is not
connected to the LV
network.
Energise the transformer HV as per HV switching program (and check for abnormal noise).
Record the switching program number: _________________________________
Conduct a voltage and phase rotation test on the LV side of the transformer, preferably at
the LV disconnect or fuse box, and record results below. (Acceptable results in brackets.)
Check the HV fuse

rating before
energising the
transformer HV.
Conduct a voltage and
phase rotation test on
the LV once the
transformer is
energised.
R to N
W to N
B to N
Phase-to-neutral voltages
__________ V
__________ V
__________ V
(216253 V)
R to W
W to B
B to R
Phase-to-phase voltages
__________ V
__________ V
__________ V
(376440 V)
Phase rotation test result: ____________________
Phase rotation test

(123 or ABC or RWB)
5. PHASE-OUT TEST
Conduct a phase-out
test on open points of
the LV network, where
the LV supply is coming
from another
transformer.
transformer. This test ensures interconnections of transformers are made or can be made for
If the LV conductors are not energised, proceed to item 6 (ENERGISATION OF THE LV

NETWORK) and conduct the phase-out test on normally open points where it can be
interconnected from another transformer.
6. ENERGISATION OF THE LV NETWORK

If applicable, ensure all short-circuiting equipment is removed from the LV network.
If applicable, check that the LV fuses are correct.
Energise the LV circuits in accordance with the LV switching program. Record the switching
program number: _______________________________________.
Ensure that the LV network is returned to its normal operating configuration. If applicable,
ensure that the LV circuits are not interconnected with any other transformers and are supplied
only from the supply transformers.
Conduct a voltage test
on the LV side of the
transformer (with load).
Conduct a voltage test on the LV disconnector or fuse box of the new transformer to ascertain whether
the transformer supply is within statutory limits during load conditions and record results below.
R to N
W to N
B to N
_________ V
_________ V
_________ V
(216253 V)
R to W
W to B
B to R
_________ V
_________ V
_________ V
(376440 V)
disturbed.
Signature: ___________________________________________________
1.
2.
3.
4.
NAC #: ________________________
Date & time: ________________________
Grid).
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3.2 NON-MPS DISTRIBUTION TRANSFORMER
Purpose: This instruction covers the decommissioning of all energised existing three-phase nonmodular package
substation (non-MPS) distribution transformers up to 1,000 kVA.
Note: The following tests and checks must be carried out when removing or before replacing existing three-phase
Primary
Secondary
non-MPS distribution transformers.
winding
a winding
A
Address/Pole No.: _________________________________________________________

Work Package No.:___________________ SPIDAWeb Pick ID: ____________________
C

decommission an
Before de-energising an existing transformer, conduct a phase rotation test on the low
voltage side of the transformer and record the results below (if applicable):
If the phasing is identified as being transposed during this test and there is no phase
marking or phase transposition marking on the cable terminals, attach a caution label
to inform the next person in charge of the transposed phase position.
program. Record the switching program number:
_________________________________________
Confirm that the transformer has been de-energised, install program earths, and issue
permit.

Name: ____________________________________________________
Signature:______________________________________________
NAC #: _____________________
Date & time: _____________________
Before removing an
transposition marking or caution label on the high voltage and secondary cable
terminals. Verify by tracing the low voltage leads on the transformers, identify the
phase colours on the existing transformer and mark or tag each lead with coloured
tape.
Check the tap setting of the existing transformer and record results below:
Tap switch position: ______

officer.
Team Leader:_______________________________________________
Signature:______________________________________________
DM# 10701697
NAC #: _____________________
Date & time: _____________________
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3.3 Single-phase transformer (pole-mounted/pad-mounted)

3.3.1
Purpose
This instruction covers the testing and commissioning of all replacements or new installations of single-phase
(pole-mounted/pad-mounted) transformers up to 50 kVA before energisation. The testing should verify that the
equipment:
3.3.2

Distribution transformers must be installed in accordance with the appropriate guidelines in Distribution
1.
2.
3.
Insulation and continuity tests must be carried out and the results recorded.
4.
3.3.3

1.
2.
3.
4.
Check and comprehend the cable handover certificate (if applicable).

tightened.
5.
6.
Check that the earthing grid is installed as required in the Distribution Substation Manual (if applicable).
7.
8.
Check the earthing testing schedule, if applicable. (Refer to the earth resistance testing.)
9.
Check the HV cable testing schedule (if applicable).
10. Check the LV cable testing schedule (if applicable).

12. Check there are no cracked bushings (HV and LV).
13. Check that all LV connections are correct.
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14. Check that HV insulated leads are being used (LV ABC).
15. Check that there is a dropout fuse element as per the fuse chart.
16. Check that the danger plate is fitted and the transformer numbered.
17. Open all fuse ways, LV disconnectors.
18. Check and record the address/pole number, SPIDAWeb pick ID number and work package number.
Standard NS 05-2000 (if applicable).

20. For pad-mounted transformers in car parks, ensure bollards are installed around the pad-mounted transformer.
3.3.4
Test criteria

Use a 2.5 kV and 1 kV insulation resistance tester for 1 minute to test the insulation resistance.
The insulation resistance values are acceptable if greater than 1 G at 2.5 kV for HV windings and greater than
100 M at 1 kV for LV windings.
The continuity test values in item 1 of the DCWI must be zero.
Ensure no electrical connections have been made, including MEN/N-E connections.
3.3.4.2 Voltage test
This test must be carried out as per the switching program.
When energising a transformer with and without a load, measure the voltage at the secondary/LV side.
3.3.5
1.
Prepare a commissioning program to energise the equipment in accordance with the Switching Operators
manuals and the switching program.
2.
Carry out the commissioning as per the switching program.
3.
Verify that the connections to the LV mains are correct.
4.
Measure the no-load and load secondary voltage of the transformer to ensure that it meets the statutory
voltage requirements.
for the ring main switchgear (pad-mounted).
5.
Check and record the load voltage at LV of the transformer.
6.
7.
8.
When erecting a new or reconstructed LV apparatus, check the voltage at an existing LV point, if possible, in
accordance with NOCC instructions. Phase out any newly fitted LV disconnectors and check them for sound
operation.
9.
Replace the temporary cable destination and transformer labels with permanent labels on the transformer as
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SW
a4
a3
a2
3.3 SINGLE-PHASE TRANSFORMER (POLE-MOUNTED/PAD-MOUNTED)
a1
ER
Single Bushing
Purpose: This instruction covers the testing and commissioning of all replacements or new installations of
single-phase pole-mounted/pad-mounted) transformers up to 50 kVA before energisation.
Tank
A8
a4
Note: Bolts and screws in all electrical connections across the Western Power network must be
properly tightened.
A1
a3
a2
a1
Two Bushing
Address/Pole No.: ____________________________________________________________

Work Package No.:_________________ SPIDAWeb Pick ID: _________________________

Earth resistance
commissioning.
Ensure that the high voltage (HV) and low voltage (LV) windings of the transformer are de-energised, the HV and LV
connections are removed, and the transformer LV neutral is disconnected from the MEN/N-E connections.
Test
on the transformer
winding
Measure resistance after
1 minute of testing for a
stable reading.
Continuity
Test Connection
Test Voltage
Resistance
Expected Results
A8 to tank (two bushings only)
2.5 kV
>1 G
SW/A8 to a1
1 kV
>100 M
SW/A8 to a3
1 kV
>100 M
Tank to a1
1 kV
>100 M
Tank to a3
1 kV
>100 M
SW/A8 to ER/A1
1 kV
a1 to a2
1 kV
a3 to a4
1 kV

rating plate
tank and bushings
tap setting
wiring installation
neutral connection
MEN/N-E
connections
Transformer tap is at the position as per design/network planning or previously installed

transformer.
Transformer installed as per design and construction standards and applicable design
drawings.
Transformer bushings and tank in good condition (no oil leak).
Neutral connected and earthed and MEN/N -E link connected.

authority.
Commissioning Officer: __________________________________
NAC #: ________________________________
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4. ENERGISATION OF THE TRANSFORMER
If applicable, check that the HV fuses are correct. Record fuse rating: _____________ A.
If applicable, ensure all short-circuiting equipment has been removed from the LV network.
Energisation of a
transformer without load
Energise the transformers HV as per the HV switching program (and check for abnormal
noise). Record the switching program number: ___________________________.
Measure voltage at the
secondary/LV side.
Measured
voltage
Expected values:
216253 V for 230 V connections
____________V
376440 V for 400 V connections
If applicable, check that the LV fuses are correct. Record the fuse rating: ___________ A.
Energise the LV mains in accordance with the LV switching program.
Check and record the secondary (LV) voltage. ________________________
Record the switching program number: ______________________________
Energisation of a
transformer with load
Disconnect the transformer from any interconnected transformer (if applicable).

Conduct a service connection test on all installations where the service connections have
been disturbed.
When erecting a new or reconstructed LV apparatus, check the voltage at an existing LV
point, if possible, in accordance with NOCC instructions. Phase out any newly fitted LV
disconnectors and check them for sound operation.
Signature: ____________________________________________________
1.
2.
3.
4.
NAC #: ________________________
Date & time: ________________________
Return form to project file as record of commissioning.
Grid).
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3.4 Three-phase transformer (pole-mounted)

3.4.1
Purpose
This instruction covers the testing and commissioning of all replacements or new installations of three-phase
pole-mounted transformers up to 315 kVA before energisation. The testing should verify that the equipment:
3.4.2
Complete the decommissioning checks on existing transformers before replacing them. These checks are essential
for ensuring that the connections on the new transformer are the same as those on the previous transformer.
3.4.3

1.
2.
3.
Insulation, continuity and phasing tests must be carried out and the results recorded.
4.
3.4.4

1.
2.
3.
4.
Check and comprehend the cable handover certificate (if applicable).

Note: In most cases a combined handover certificate is issued for the transformer and cables. If the cable is to
be laid by the customer, then before responsibility is handed over to Western Power for the jointing conduct a
pre-acceptance test (insulation resistance test) to determine the state of the cable.
5.
6.
Check the earthing testing schedule, if applicable. (Refer to earth resistance testing.)
7.
8.
Check the LV cable testing schedule (if applicable).
9.
Check that the SPIDAWeb pick ID numbers for each item are in accordance with the as-constructed drawings.
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3.4.5
Test criteria

Use a 2.5 kV and 1 kV insulation resistance tester for 1 minute to test the insulation resistance on the transformer
winding.
3.4.5.2 Voltage test
This test must be carried out as per the switching program.
When energising a transformer with and without a load:
ensure the red to neutral, white to neutral and blue to neutral test results are within the acceptable range
(216 V to 253 V)
ensure the red to white, white to blue and blue to red test results are within the acceptable range
(376 V to 440 V).

If the LV conductors are energised from an interconnected transformer, conduct the phase-out test at the new
transformers LV dis-connector or fuse box.
If the LV conductors are not energised and for sole use, conduct the phase-out as required.
When erecting a new or reconstructed LV apparatus, conform to the Western Power practices for the
construction of distribution overhead lines. Phase out at an existing LV point, if possible. Phase out any newly
fitted LV disconnectors and check them for sound operation.
3.4.6
1.
2.
3.
Verify that the connections to the LV mains are correct.
4.
requirements at the supply side of the LV disconnector or downstream of the disturbed connection.
5.
6.
7.
Check that the phase rotation and synchronisation are correct.
8.
9.
10. Replace the temporary cable destination and transformer labels with permanent labels on the transformer as

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3.4 THREE-PHASE POLE-MOUNTED TRANSFORMER
three-phase pole-mounted distribution transformers up to 315 kVA before energisation.
Note: The following tests and checks must be carried out after installation and before
the transformer is put into service.
tightened.
Address/Pole No.: ________________________________________________________________
Primary
winding
A
Secondary
winding
Work Package No.:_________________ SPIDAWeb Pick ID: ________________________
1. PRE-INSTALLATION CHECKS
Complete these checks
and tests before installing
the wiring.
on the transformer
winding
terminals of the source of
the same voltage level
together.)
commissioning.
Ensure that the high voltage (HV) and low voltage (LV) windings of the transformer are deenergised, the HV and LV connections are removed, and the transformer LV neutral is
disconnected from the MEN link/ N-E connections.
Test Connection
Test Voltage
Resistance
Expected Results
2.5 kV
________
>1 G
Primary/HV to secondary/LV
1 kV
________
>100 M
1 kV
_________
>100 M
Primary/HV to tank

rating plate
tap setting
tank and bushings
oil level
wiring Installation
neutral connection
MEN/N-E
connections
Transformer tap is at the position as per network planning (new installations) or as per the tap
switch position in item 3 of the decommissioning work instruction (for replacement
transformers).
Oil level satisfactory (if visible).
Neutral connected and earthed and MEN / N-E link connected.
LV lead connections to the transformer LV bushings are correct as per construction standards
(as per manufactures for new connection) or as per markings in item 3.1.4.14 of the
decommissioning sheet (for replacement transformers).

Check if HV fuses are correct. Record the fuse rating: __________ A.
Check that the
transformer LV is not
connected to the LV
network.
Check the HV fuse
rating before
energising the
transformer HV.
Conduct the voltage
and phase rotation test
once the transformer is
energised.
Energise the transformer HV as per the HV switching program (and check for abnormal
noise). Record the switching program number: __________________________.
Conduct a voltage and phase rotation test on the LV side of the transformer, preferably at the
LV disconnectors or fuse box, and record the results below.
R to N
__________ V
W to N
__________ V
B to N
__________ V
(216253 V)
R to W
__________ V
W to B
__________ V
B to R
__________ V
(376440 V)
Phase rotation test result: ________________

The phase rotation test result must be 123/ABC/RWB for a new installation or as per item 1 of the
decommissioning sheet for a replacement transformer.
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4. PHASE-OUT TEST
Conduct a phase-out test

on open points of the LV
network, where the LV
supply comes from
another transformer.
transformer. This test ensures the interconnection of transformers is made or can be made for
If the LV conductors are not energised, proceed to item 5 (ENERGISATION OF THE NETWORK
WITH LOAD) and conduct the phase-out test on normally open points where it can be
interconnected from another transformer.
When erecting a new or reconstructed LV apparatus, conform to the Western Power practices
for the construction of distribution overhead lines. Phase out at an existing LV point, if possible.
Phase out any newly fitted LV disconnectors and check them for sound operation.
5. ENERGISATION OF THE NETWORK WITH LOAD

If applicable, ensure all short-circuiting equipment is removed from the LV network.
If applicable, check that the LV fuses are correct.
Record the fuse rating: _____A.
Energise the LV circuit in accordance with the LV switching program. Record the switching
program number: _________________________________________.
Carry out the LV
switching program and
return the LV network
to its original operating
configuration.
Perform a voltage test
to recheck the voltage.
Ensure that the LV network is returned to its normal operating configuration. If applicable,
ensure that the LV circuits are not interconnected with any other transformers and are
supplied only from the supply transformer.
Conduct a voltage test on the LV disconnector or fuse box of the new transformer to ascertain
that the transformer supply is within statutory limits during load conditions and record the
results below.
R to N
__________ V
W to N
__________ V
B to N
__________ V
(216254 V)
R to W
__________ V
W to B
__________ V
B to R
__________ V
(376440 V)
Conduct a service connection test on all installations where the service connections have
been disturbed.
Signature: ____________________________________________________
1.
2.
3.
4.
NAC #: ________________________
Date & time: ________________________
Return this form to the project file folder as a record of the commissioning/handover certificate.
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3.4 THREE-PHASE POLE-MOUNTED TRANSFORMER
Purpose: This instruction covers the decommissioning of all energised existing three-phase
pole-mounted distribution transformers up to 315 kVA.
Note: The following tests and checks must be carried out when removing or before replacing
existing three-phase pole-mounted distribution transformers.
Primary
winding
A
Secondary
winding
Address/Pole No.: ________________________________________________________

Work Package No.:___________________ SPIDAWeb Pick ID: ____________________

Before de-energising an existing transformer, conduct a phase rotation test on the low
voltage side of the transformer and record results below (if applicable):
decommission an
If the phase sequence is transposed without any phase markings on the pole or cable
terminals, attach a caution label to inform the next person in charge of the changes.
program. Record the switching program number: _________________________
After confirming that the transformer has been de-energised, install program earths
and then issue permit.

Name: ____________________________________________________
Signature:______________________________________________
NAC #: _____________________
Date & time: _____________________
Before removing an
transposition marking or caution label on the pole. Verify by tracing the low voltage
leads on the transformers, identify the phase colours on the existing transformer and
mark or tag each lead with coloured tape.
Check the tap setting of the existing transformer and record the result below:
Tap switch position: ______

officer.
Team leader: _______________________________________________
Signature:______________________________________________
DM# 10701697
NAC #: _____________________
Date & time: _____________________
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3.5 SWER isolation transformer (pole-mounted)

3.5.1
Purpose
This instruction covers the testing and commissioning of all replacements or new installations of SWER isolation
transformers up to 200 kVA before energisation. The testing should verify that the equipment:
Operators Manual 1 and the switchgear manufacturers operating and commissioning manual.
3.5.2

1.
2.
As he installer must affix temporary labels to all relevant network equipment such as transformers and switch
fuse units, stating the destinations of all cables.
3.
4.
3.5.3

1.
2.
3.
Check the transformer handover certificate.
4.
Check the cable handover certificate (if applicable).

5.
6.
7.
Check the earthing testing schedule, if applicable. (Refer to earth resistance testing.)
8.
9.

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3.5.4
Test criteria
3.5.4.1 Transformer test

Use a 2.5 kV insulation resistance tester for 1 minute.
Insulation resistance values greater than 1 G for 2.5 kV are acceptable. The continuity test value must be
zero.
Ensure no electrical connections have been made, including MEN links /N-E connections.
3.5.5
1. Prepare a commissioning program to energise the equipment in accordance with the Switching Operators
manuals and the switching program.
2. Check that the HV fuses are correct.
3. Carry out the commissioning as per the switching program.
4. When erecting a new or reconstructed LV apparatus, check the voltage at an existing LV point, if possible, in
operation.
5. Check for abnormal noise.
6. Measure and record the voltage reading of the transformer at the control of the single-phase recloser (if
available).
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3.5 SWER ISOLATION TRANSFORMER (POLE-MOUNTED)
pole-mounted SWER isolation transformers up to 200 kVA before energisation.
Note: The following tests and checks must be carried out after installation and before the transformer is put into
service.
tightened.
Address/Pole No.: __________________________________________________________
Work Package No.:_________________ SPIDAWeb Pick ID: _______________________
1. TRANSFORMER TESTS
Ensure all electrical connections have been disconnected, including MEN links/N-E links.
Record the insulation resistance after 1 minute of testing.
Stock number
XT 0189, XT 0190, XT 0195

A10
XT 0198, XT 0196
SW
SW1
SW2
ER1
ER2
A8
SW
A1
ER
SW2
A1
Winding continuity
test using 1 kV
(0 acceptable)
XT 0193
SW3
Transformer diagram
test using 2.5 kV
(greater than 1 G
acceptable)
XT 0192
ER
ER
A10 to SW
_____________
SW3 to tank
SW1 to SW2
_____________
A8 to SW
_____________
A10 to tank
_____________
_____________
SW1 to tank
_____________
A8 to tank
_____________
A10 to A1
_____________
SW3 to ER
_____________
SW1 to ER1
_____________
A8 to A1
_____________
SW to ER
_____________
SW2 to ER
_____________
SW2 to ER2
_____________
SW to ER
_____________

rating plate
tank and bushings
tap setting
wiring
neutral connection
MEN links /N-E
connections

HV bushings connected.
Neutral connected and earthed and MEN links /N -E links reconnected.
Transformer tap is at the position as per design/network planning or previously installed
transformer.
3. ENERGISATION
Energisation of a
transformer without a load
Energise the transformer as per the switching program. (Check for abnormal noise.)
Record the voltage reading at the control of the 1-ph recloser, if available. ______V
Energisation of a
transformer with a load
Energise the load as per the switching program.
Ensure the transformer is operating normally.

Note: When erecting a new or reconstructed LV apparatus, check the voltage at an existing LV point, if possible, in accordance
with NOCC instructions. Phase out any newly fitted LV disconnectors and check them for sound operation.
NAC #: ________________________
Signature: ____________________________________________________
1.
2.
3.
4.
Date & time: ________________________
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3.6 SWER isolation transformer (ground mounted)

3.6.1
Purpose
This instruction covers the testing and commissioning of all replacements or new installations of ground-mounted
SWER isolation transformers up to 315 kVA before energisation. The testing should verify that the equipment:
3.6.2

1.
2.
3.
4.
3.6.3

1.
2.
3.
4.
Check and comprehend the cable handover certificate.

5.
6.
7.
8.
Check the earthing testing schedule. (Refer to the earth resistance testing.)
9.
Check the HV cable testing schedule.
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3.6.4
Test criteria
3.6.4.1 Transformer tests

Use a 2.5 kV insulation resistance tester for 1 minute at the following connections:
Insulation resistance test values greater than 1 G for 2.5 kV are acceptable.
The continuity test value must be zero.
Ensure no electrical connections have been made, including MEN links/N-E connections.
3.6.5
1.
manuals.
2.
3.
4.
Check for abnormal noise.

5.
When erecting a new or reconstructed LV apparatus, check the voltage at an existing LV point, if possible, in
operation.
6.
7.
8.
9.
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Aout
3.6 SWER ISOLATION TRANSFORMER (GROUND MOUNTED)
Cin
Cout
FA
A in
A9
a2
8
7
6
Ain
5
4
3
2
B in
Purpose: This instruction covers the testing and commissioning of all replacements or new installations
B
out
of single-phase ground-mounted SWER isolation transformers up to 315 kVA before energisation.
a1
A1
FB
Tank
Address/Pole No.: _____________________________________________________
Work Package No.:_________________ SPIDAWeb Pick ID: __________________
1. TRANSFORMER TESTS
Ensure all electrical connections have been disconnected, including the MEN/N-E connections.
Record the insulation resistance after 1 minute of testing.
Test
on the transformer
winding
Continuity test on the
transformer winding
Test Connection
Test Voltage
Resistance
Expected Values
Ain to tank
2.5 kV
_____
> 1 G
Ain to SW1
2.5 kV
_____
> 1 G
SW1 to tank
2.5 kV
_____
> 1 G
Cin to tank
2.5 kV
_____
> 1 G
Ain to Bin
1 kV
_____
0 M
SW1 to ER
1 kV
_____
0 M

Transformer tap is at the position as per design/network planning or previously
installed transformer.
Transformer installed as per construction standards and applicable design

drawings.
rating plate
tank and bushings
tap setting
wiring installation
markings labels and
danger plate
HV cables properly terminated connected and marked/labelled.

Unused bushings are properly capped.
Neutral connected and earthed, and MEN/N - E link connected.
Transformers danger plate is fitted.

authority.
Testing officer / cable jointer / CPM: _________________________
NAC #: ________________________________
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4. ENERGISATION
Energisation of a
transformer without a
load
Energise the transformer as per the switching program (and check for abnormal
noise).
Record the voltage reading at the control at the 1-ph recloser, if available. _______
Energisation of a
transformer with a load
Energise the load as per the switching program.

Ensure the transformer is operating normally.
Note: When erecting a new or reconstructed LV apparatus, check the voltage at an existing LV point, if possible, in
operation.
NAC #: _____________________
Signature:______________________________________________
1.
2.
3.
4.
Date & time: _____________________
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Section 4 Distribution equipment

The intention of this section is to provide details of commissioning requirements for distribution equipment. This
section currently contains details of:
1. Earth testing
2. Nulec load break switch/sectionaliser
3. Nulec pole-mounted automatic recloser
4. Pole-top switch
5. Pole-mounted capacitor bank
6. Single-phase underground rural supply fuse switch
7. Voltage regulator (closed Delta connection)
8. Voltage regulator (Star connection)
9. HV ring main switchgear
10. LV kiosk.
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4.1 Earth testing

4.1.1
Purpose
This instruction covers testing of the earth resistance of electrodes or earth systems.
Good earthing systems are essential for the protection of personnel from electrical shock and the protection of
electrical equipment from dangerous overvoltage and excess current.
4.1.2
Scope
This instruction must be followed for all earth resistance testing in Western Powers SWIS distribution network.
4.1.3
References
AS 2067 Substations and HV Installations Exceeding 1 kV AC.
Electrical System Safety Rules.
Distribution Design Catalogue.
Distribution Substation Manual.
4.1.4
Responsible persons
The tester in charge is responsible for carrying out tests in accordance with this instruction and recording all test
results and comments where relevant.
4.1.5
Test equipment
a ground resistance tester.
4.1.6
Instructions
For combined earthing systems, measure resistance to earth of the completed system with all earth connections
and neutral-earth connections in place. Record the results.
For separate earthing systems, measure the resistance to earth of the HV earthing system and the LV system
independently and separately. The measurements must be made independently of any connection between the
neutral conductor and earth elsewhere within the electrical installation. Record the results.
AS 2067:2008 section 8.2.3.
4.1.7
Test criteria
4.1.7.1 Earthing system resistance test (fall of potential method)

The earth connections of the earthing systems must be located, installed and maintained so that the resistance to
earth must not exceed the expected values as specified in the Distribution Commissioning Work Instruction.
The resistance specified in HV and LV systems must be achieved independently of any connections between the
neutral conductor and earth at other points within the electrical installation.
4.1.7.2 Resistance to earth combined earthing system
The combined earthing system must have a resistance to earth not greater than 1.
A resistance of 1 may be achieved by connection to electrode systems, metallic cable sheaths or LV neutrals,
provided that when any such connection is temporarily removed for test or maintenance purposes the resistance of
the remaining earthing connections does not exceed 30 .
A resistance to earth value greater than 1 may be appropriate where step and touch potentials are satisfactory.
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4.1.8
1.
The commissioning officer must sign off on the testing schedule and include appropriate registration and
licence numbers where applicable.
2.
3.
4.
5.
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4.1 EARTHING SYSTEM RESISTANCE TESTING (ALL EQUIPMENT)
Purpose: This instruction covers testing of the earth resistance of electrodes or earth systems. Good
earthing systems are essential for the protection of personnel from electrical shock and the protection of
electrical equipment from dangerous overvoltage and excess current.
Note: The following tests must be carried out on all replacements or new installations before they are put into service. If testing
whether existing earth electrodes are connected to the network, refer to the Work Practice Manual.
Address/Pole No.: _________________________________________________________________
Work Package No.:_________________ SPIDAWeb Pick ID: ______________________________
1. PRE-TEST CHECK
Rated system voltage
Volts
Equipment being protected by the earth system (e.g. transformer, pole-top

switch)
No. of earth electrodes per earthing point
Approximate depth of
earth electrodes
a)
#
b)
Metres
Size of earth cables

Visual inspection
mm2
Check that the earth conductors are correctly installed to the earth bar (if applicable) and that
there are no signs of damage.
Check that the earth electrodes are properly installed and connected to the earth system by
earth conductors.
Check that the earth pits are properly installed, access to the earth electrode is possible and
the earth pit lids are in good condition.
Check that the compound earth grid is bonded to the substation screening fence (not a
customer property bounded fence) and connected to a MEN / NE connections or earth
terminals bar (if applicable).
2. EARTHING SYSTEM RESISTANCE TEST

Test Equipment: Earth Resistance Tester (three-pole fall of potential method)
Fall of potential method
Test results
The earth electrode under test (electrode 1) must be disconnected from the earthing system.
This test involves two test instrument electrodes (electrode 2 and electrode 3).
If the depth of electrode 1 is d, then the test probe P (electrode 3) of the tester must be placed at a
minimum of 2 x d from the earth electrode 1 and the C probe (electrode 2) must be minimum 3.2 x d
from the earth electrode 1(in that ratio where P is 62% of the distance between the earth electrode
and C probe). This ensures an accurate earth resistance measurement. Otherwise, the measurement
would result in higher resistance readings due to summation of the zones of influence of the earth
electrode and the C probe.( see probe spacing table 1 below)
In the case that the electrode under test (electrode 1) is unknown, install the electrode 2 at a distance
of 50 metres away, and electrode 3 at a distance of 31 metres (around 62% of the distance between
electrodes 1 and 2) in a straight line.
This test is repeated by moving the electrode 3 a distance of 3 metres forwards and backwards from
its initial position and in straight line.
The final test result is the average of the three test results. (See diagram 1 below.)
First Test
Initiate test:
Electrode 2 at C metres
Electrode 3 at 0.62C metres
Record value:
Second Test
Reposition electrode 3:
+ 3 metres from initial position
Third Test
Reposition electrode 3:
- 3 metres from initial position
Record value:
Record value:
Average the value of the three tests and record.
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Description
Acceptable values
(Distribution Substation
Manual)
Maximum Allowable Resistance
High voltage system overhead systems (each electrode)
max 30
Low voltage system: transformer rating up to 63 kVA
max30
Low voltage system: pole-top transformer not greater than 315 kVA
max30
Low voltage system: pad-mounted transformer rating 160 kVA or

greater (each electrode)
max 10
High voltage system: underground system (ground mounted

equipment) (each electrode)
max 10
Combined HV-LV earthing system (e.g. transformers)
max 1
Earth
Resistance
Tester
R 10 ?
Electrode 3
( Probe P )
Electrode 1
Electrode 2
( Probe C )
Earth
d
d
-3m
Electrode being
tested
+3m
62% of C
60
40
30
Earth Resistance
20
Resistance, Ohms
Resistance, Ohms
50
10
0
0
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
Diagram 1
Percentage of the distance from Electrode 1 to Electrode 2
ELECTRODE DEPTH
<15m
15 - 30m
30 - 45m
45 - 60m
60 - 75m
75 - 100m
Test Lead lengths from Earth Electrode

Potential Probe (P) Current Probe (C)
30m
50m
60m
100m
90m
150m
120m
190m
150m
240m
200m
320m
Straight line probe spacing table 1

(Western Power Network)
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Signature: ___________________________________________________
1.
2.
3.
4.
NAC #: ________________________
Date & time: ________________________
Ensure the work area is left tidy and no hazards to the public.
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4.2 Nulec load break switch/sectionaliser

4.2.1
Purpose
This instruction covers the testing and commissioning of all replacements or new installations of a Nulec load break
switch (LBS)/sectionaliser before energisation.
4.2.2
Related information
None.
4.2.3
A Nulec load break switch/sectionaliser must be installed in accordance with the appropriate guidelines in
Distribution Construction Standards Handbook HB01 and applicable design drawings.
4.2.4
1.
2.
Check that the SPIDAWeb pick ID/pole numbers for each item are in accordance with the as-constructed
drawings.
3.
Check the earthing testing schedule. (Refer to the earth testing.)
4.
Check that the antenna is aligned to the correct bearing (applicable radio comms only) and installed correctly
(with elements vertical and drain hole down). Antenna pole brackets with open slotted fixing holes are not
permitted.
4.2.5
Test criteria

Test the insulation resistance using a 5 kV insulation resistance tester between each phase conductor and the load
break switch tank. Record the measured resistance (M). The insulation resistance test results should be taken
after 1 minute of testing. Values greater than 100 M are acceptable. Check the indicator position.
Use an insulation resistance tester to verify the continuity of the circuit. Check the indicator position.
Use a voltmeter or multi-tester on the 240 V supply to verify the correct supply to the controls and its safe
operation.
4.2.6
Operations and communications (controller)
4.2.6.1 Pole-top control cubicle

The switching contacts are driven by an over-centre spring mechanism to ensure that the operating speed is
always constant, independently of the speed of the operator. The mechanism can be driven by either a manual
hookstick or an electric motor.
The pole-top control cubicle (PTCC) controller works intimately with the on-board electronics of the RL-Series
switch. Key electrical characteristics of the switch are stored in the on-board electronics. Thus, any PTCC controller
can be connected to any RL-Series switch, and the controller immediately reads the on-board memory and
recognises the switch, adapting to suit the characteristics of the switch.
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4.2.6.2 Control cabinet
Check that the antenna surge diverter is fitted at the base of the control box.
4.2.7
1.
Carry out the commissioning program in accordance with Switching Operators Manual 1 and the switching
program.
2.
Conduct a phase-out test under NOCC switching schedules if the conductors on both sides of the switch are
energised from different feeders. Use appropriate phasing devices to ensure that phases on the left side of the
switch are in phase with those on the right side of the switch.
3.
Ensure that the alarm and controls are set to the required parameters.
4.
5.
Hand over responsibility to NOCC.
6.
7.
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4.2 NULEC LOAD BREAK SWITCH/SECTIONALISER
Purpose: This instruction covers the testing and commissioning of all replacements or new installations of a
Nulec load break switch (LBS)/sectionaliser before energisation.
Note: The following tests must be carried out after installation and before the switch/sectionaliser is put into service.
Address/Pole No.: ______________________________________________________________
Work Package No.:_________________ SPIDAWeb Pick ID: ___________________________
1. PRE-INSTALLATION CHECK
Earth resistance test
and LBS nameplate
Ensure that the earth resistance test result is acceptable.

Ensure that the switch rating matches the system voltage (RL27 for 11 & 22 kV; RL38 for 33 kV).
2. INSULATION RESISTANCE AND CONTINUITY TEST

Test Type
test
Contact Position
Closed position
(Check indicator position.)
resistance tester.
Measure resistance
after 1 minute of
testing.
Open position
Continuity test
Use an insulation
resistance tester.
Closed position
Test Results
Acceptable Results
I red to II white
I red to III blue
II white to III blue
I red to tank
II white to tank
III blue to tank
I red to X red
II white to XX white
III blue to XXX blue
I red to X red
II white to XX white
III blue to XXX blue
Not less than 100 M
Not less than 100 M
0 M
3. INSTALLATION CHECK
design drawings.
Structure
Check that the anti-climbing guards and danger plate are fitted and correctly numbered.
Check that all the connections (including the LBS and control cabinet) are properly connected
and bonded to earth.
Control cabinet
Antenna
Check that the antenna is aligned to the correct bearing (applicable radio comms only) and
installed correctly (with elements vertical and drain hole down). Antenna pole brackets with open
slotted fixing holes are not permitted.
4. ENERGISATION
Energisation
Conduct a phase-out test under NOCC

switching schedules if the conductors on both
sides of the switch are energised from different
feeders.
Use appropriate phasing devices to ensure
that phases on the left side of the switch are in
phase with those on the right side of the
switch.
Connections
red
white
Red
White
red
white
red
white
yes
yes
yes
no
no
no
yes
yes
yes
no
no
no
yes
yes
yes
no
no
no
In phase
blue
blue
DM# 10701697
In phase
blue
Blue
Phase-out Test Results
In phase
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Ensure the switch is in the correct position (open or closed) as per the switching program or
network configuration.
Energise the switchgear as per the switching program and/or network configuration.
Remove all bypass jumpers (if applicable).
Energisation
(continued)
Disable or disconnect the trip and close coils, comms device (radio etc.).
Energise the control box and conduct a polarity test on the 240 V supply and the 240 V surge
arrester.
Ensure that the control unit indication matches the switchgear status.
Check for any signs of abnormality.

I hereby certify that items 1 to 4 have been completed with the above results and transfer control to the commissioning officer.
Signature: ___________________________________________________
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
NAC #: ________________________
Date & time: ________________________
Lock the control unit doors using two approved (NMK2) Western Power padlocks. NK6 padlocks must not be reused.
Attach an Out Of Service (Warning) tag to the padlock on the front of the control cabinet.
Inform NOCC of the status of the switchgear.
Hand over responsibility to the Field Services (Primary Response Group) for the commissioning of alarms and remote controls.
6. ALARM AND CONTROL TESTING

Secondary Distribution Network Access Request number: __________
Ensure that the correct controller firmware is used.
Setting the controller
Ensure that all the indications from the controller are normal.
Ensure that all the required settings have been installed.
Name of the network operations controller assisting the commissioning:
____________________________________________________________
Enable/connect the communication device (radio, etc.).
Check that all the alarms and controls tested to NOCC have been successful.
Perform the following
tests in coordination
with NOCC:
Ensure that the phase fault, earth fault, and sensitive earth fault detection settings have been
recorded by the network controller.
Ensure that the analogues (I, V, kW & kVAR) have been recorded by the network controller.
Enable/connect the trip and close coils and check operation.
Remove the Out Of Service (Warning) tag from the padlock on the front of the control cabinet.
I hereby certify that item 6 has been completed with satisfactory results and transfer control to the network operating authority.
Signature: ___________________________________________________
1.
2.
3.
4.
NAC #: ________________________
Date & time: ________________________
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4.3 Nulec pole-mounted automatic control recloser

4.3.1
Purpose
This instruction covers the testing and commissioning of all replacements or new installations of Nulec
pole-mounted automatic reclosers before energisation.
4.3.2
Related information
None.
4.3.3
A Nulec pole-mounted automatic recloser must be installed in accordance with the appropriate guidelines in
Distribution Construction Handbook HB01 and applicable design drawings.
4.3.4

1.
2.
Check that the SPIDAWeb pick ID and pole numbers for each item are in accordance with the as-constructed
drawings.
3.
Check the earthing testing schedule. (Refer to the heading earth testing.)
4.
Consult the Nulec pole-mounted automatic recloser manufacturers operating and commissioning instruction
manual to identify any special items that are required to be checked or examined before the equipment is
placed in service.
5.
Check the maximum separation between the down earth and the recloser umbilical cable.
6.
Check that the pole is labelled correctly.
7.
Ensure the 240 V white thermal plastic sheath is continuous up to the circuit breaker and stripped minimally to
terminate the active and neutral conductors. Install or run the 240 V thermal plastic sheath cable behind the
gear tray (without a conduit). The earth in the thermal plastic sheath cable can be cut as it need not be
connected.
8.
9.
Check that the antenna is aligned to the correct bearing (applicable radio comms only) and installed correctly
(with elements vertical and drain hole down). Antenna pole brackets with open slotted fixing holes are not
permitted.
4.3.5
Test criteria

Use a 5 kV insulation resistance tester and take the resistance values after 1 minute of testing. Test the recloser in
the OFF (open contact) position. Operate the manual trip lever if required.
Test and record the insulation resistance values.
Energise the control box and conduct a polarity test on the 240 V supply.
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4.3.6
1.
Carry out the commissioning in accordance with Switching Operators Manual 1 and the switching program.
2.
Before closing an automatic control recloser on the distribution network, phase out the HV.
3.
Ensure that the alarms and controls are set to the specified requirements.
4.
5.
6.
7.
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4.3 NULEC POLE-MOUNTED AUTOMATIC CONTROL RECLOSER
Purpose: This instruction covers the testing and commissioning of all replacements or new
installations of Nulec pole-mounted automatic reclosers before energisation.
Note: The following tests must be carried out after installation and before the recloser is put into service.
Address/Pole No.: ________________________________________________________
Work Package No.:_________________ SPIDAWeb Pick ID: _____________________
Earth resistance test
and recloser
nameplate
Ensure that switch rating matches the system voltage.

Note: Three-phase reclosers with internal voltage transformers (identified by three
nameplates) can only be removed under an electrical access permit; an insulation
resistance test between V1 and W1 is not applicable.
2. INSULATION RESISTANCE TEST (FOR A SINGLE-PHASE RECLOSER)
Use a 5 kV insulation resistance tester.
Measure the resistance after 1 minute of
testing. Put the test recloser in the OFF
(open contact) position. Operate the manual
trip level if required.
Bushings
Test Results
Between contacts X & I
Short-circuit all bushings and

test simultaneously to tank.
3. INSULATION RESISTANCE TEST (FOR A THREE-PHASE RECLOSER)

Bushings
Test Results
Supply side
Put the test recloser
in the OFF (open
contact) position.
Operate the manual
trip lever if required.
Use a 5 kV
insulation resistance
tester.
Load side
Between contacts
Acceptable Results
Not <100 M
Acceptable Results
U1 red to V1 white
V1 white to W1 blue
W1 blue to U1 red
U2 red to V2 white
V2 white to W2 blue
W2 blue to U2 red
U1 red to U2 red
V1 white to V2 white
W1 blue to W2 blue
Not <100 M
Measure resistance
after 1 minute
of testing.
Short-circuit all
bushings and test
Bushings to tank
M
simultaneously to
tank.
Note: When a Nulec pole-mounted automatic control recloser is closed, the insulation
resistance between contacts of the same phase (U1-U2, V1 V2 and W1-W2) should be
zero.
Check the recloser for damage, tank, bushings, cracks in boots and excessive dirt.
Recloser
For relocated reclosers, all the HV boots must be removed, cleaned and repacked with
silicon grease. Ensure the boots are filled fully with silicon grease and that no air gaps
or moisture are present.
Ensure the bushing palms and the lugs have the correct torque:
Three-phase [Palms x 70 Nm Lugs x (1 hole 60 Nm) (2 holes 44 Nm)]
Single-phase [Lug x (1 hole 30 Nm)].
Check that all the HV lightning arresters have bird caps fitted and are tightened
correctly.
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Structure
Check that all the connections (including the recloser and control cabinet) are properly
connected and bonded to earth.
Check the maximum separation between the down earth and the recloser umbilical
cable.
Check that the pole is labelled correctly.
Control cabinet
Ensure the 240 V white thermal plastic sheath is continuous up to the circuit breaker
and stripped minimally to terminate the active and neutral conductors. Install or run the
240 V thermal plastic sheath cable behind the gear tray (without a conduit). The earth in
the thermal plastic sheath cable can be cut as it need not be connected.
Antenna
Check that the antenna is aligned to the correct bearing (applicable radio comms only)
and installed correctly (with elements vertical and drain hole down). Antenna pole
brackets with open slotted fixing holes are not permitted.
5. ENERGISATION
Where an automatic control recloser can be connected to the distribution network,
phase out under NOCC switching schedules at a HV point such as a pole-top switch.
Ensure that the switch is in the correct position (open or closed) as per the switching
program or network configuration.
Energise the switchgear as per the switching program and network configuration.
Remove all bypass jumpers (if applicable).
Energisation
Disable/disconnect the trip and close coils and the communication device (radio, etc.).
For testing purposes, use an effective earthed reference point spaced more than
2 meters from any electrically conductive object embedded in the ground.
Energise the control box and conduct a polarity test on the 240 V supply.
Check and ensure that the control unit indication matches the switchgear status.

I hereby certify that items 1 to 5 have been completed with the above results and transfer control to the
Signature:______________________________________________
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
NAC #: _____________________
Date & time: _____________________
Lock the control unit doors using two approved (NMK2) Western Power padlocks. NK6 padlocks must not be
reused.
Inform NOCC of the status of the switchgear.
Hand over responsibility to the Field Services (Primary Response Group) for the commissioning of alarms and
remote controls.
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7. ALARM AND CONTROL TESTING

Secondary Distribution Network Access Request number: ______.
Setting the controller
Ensure the correct controller firmware is used.

Ensure that all the indications from the controller are normal.
Ensure all the required settings have been installed.
Name of the network operations controller assisting the commissioning:
___________________________________________________________
Enable/connect the communication device (radio, etc.).
Perform the
following tests in
coordination with
NOCC:
Check that all the alarms and controls tested to NOCC have been successful.
Phase fault, earth fault and sensitive earth fault detection settings have been recorded
by the network controller.
Ensure the analogues (I, V, kW & kVAR) have been recorded by the network controller.
Enable/connect the trip, close coils and check operation.
Remove the Out Of Service (Warning) tag from the padlock on the front of the control
cabinet.
Commissioning officer:____________________________________
Signature:________________________________
1.
2.
3.
4.
NAC #: __________________________
Date & time: ____________________________________
Return this form to the project file folder and file as a record of commissioning.
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4.4 Pole-top switch

4.4.1
Purpose
This instruction covers the testing and commissioning of all replacements or new installations of pole-top switches
before energisation.
If a transformer and LV switchgear are to be commissioned at the same time as the pole-top switch, refer to the
instructions for commissioning these items of equipment and include the appropriate switching operations in the
switching program.
4.4.2
Related information
None.
4.4.3
Pole-top switches must be installed in accordance with the appropriate guidelines in Distribution Construction
Standards Handbook HB01 and applicable design drawings.
On completion, the installer must issue an earthing testing schedule and handover certificate to the operating
authority.
Ensure that the retaining springs of the polo switch are correctly installed.
4.4.4
The following steps are to be carried out with the switch de-energised.
1.
2.
Check that the SPIDAWeb pick ID numbers for each item are in accordance with the as-constructed drawing.
3.
Install the earth electrode (maximum 30 ).
4.
Check that the switch body is earthed to the earthing stud on top of the pole (if using a concrete pole).
5.
Ensure that the switch body, switch handle and earth mat are properly earthed and secured.
6.
Check the insulated earthing cable used to connect the switch body to the operating mechanism at the base of
the pole (if using a wood pole) or connect the operating mechanism to the earth stud at the base of the pole
using insulated wire (if using a concrete pole).
7.
Check that the switch handle has a separate connection to the operating mechanismdo not rely on
hinge/pivot points.
8.
Check that the operating mechanism has a separate connection to the earth mat and a separate connection to
the earth stakes.
9.
Check the earthing at the base of the pole (and grease if required). Check that the earth mat is at the correct
position for operator safety when operating the switch handle. The earth mat should be above ground, not
buried.
10. Check the mechanical operation of the switch and adjust as necessary for smooth operation. Check that all
contacts are seated correctly in the closed position.

11. Ensure that the switch has a danger plate affixed and is numbered.
12. Fit a Western Power approved lock and ensure that the switch handle is lockable in both open and closed
positions.
Note: An NK6 padlock must not be re-used.
tightened.
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4.4.5
1. Carry out the commissioning in accordance the Switching Operators manuals and the switching program.
2. Conduct a phase-out test under NOCC switching schedules if the conductors on both sides of the switch are
energised from different feeders. Use appropriate phasing devices to ensure that phases on the left side of the
switch are in phase with those on the right side of the switch.
3. Set the auto-reclose on the HV feeders on either side of the switch to manual.
4. If required, close the switch; otherwise leave in the open position. Lock the switch handle.
5. Record the switching program number.
6. Replace the temporary labels with permanent labels.
7. Ensure all equipment is in its final circuit condition and that all normally open points are set to their designated
position.
8. Ensure all equipment is locked, signposted and protected from unauthorised access.
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4.4 POLE-TOP SWITCH
pole-top switches before energisation.
Note: The following test must be carried out after installation, alteration and before the switch is put into service.
Address/Pole No.: ___________________________________________________________________
Work Package No.:_________________
SPIDAWeb Pick ID: _______________________________
1. INSTALLATION OPERATION AND CONSTRUCTION CHECKS

Pre-construction checks
Ensure that the earth resistance test result is acceptable (<30 ). Write the actual value: ___ .
Ensure that the switch rating matches the system voltage.
Ensure that the blades (flexi-tails) are properly oriented.
Install switch with blades

and contacts
de-energised and
operate for a functional
test.
Ensure that the retaining springs of the pole-top switch are correctly installed.
Operate the pole-top switch and ensure that it opens and closes smoothly, that the contacts are
fully seated in the closed position, and that all three blades are firm and operate simultaneously.
(Adjust if necessary.)
Ensure a Western Power approved lock fits in both open and closed positions.
Check that construction complies with the distribution construction standards and applicable
design drawings.
Construction checks
Check that the anti-climbing guards and danger plate are fitted correctly.
Check that the structure is numbered and labelled correctly.
Ensure the switch body, switch handle and earth mat are properly earthed and secured.
2. TESTING
Testing
Ensure that the switch is in the correct position (open or closed) as per the switching program or
network configuration.
Phase-out test results
Connections
In phase?
red
yes
no
Conduct a phase-out test under NOCC
Red
white
yes
no
switching schedules if the conductors on both
blue
yes
no
sides of the switch are energised from
red
yes
no
different feeders. Use appropriate phasing
devices to ensure that phases on the left side
White
white
yes
no
of the switch are in phase with those on the
blue
yes
no
right side of the switch.
red
yes
no
Blue
white
yes
no
blue
yes
no
N/A
N/A
N/A
3. ENERGISATION
Energisation
Ensure that all bypass jumpers have been removed (if applicable).
Operate the switch as per the switching program number.
I hereby certify that items 1 to 3 have been completed with the above results and transfer control to the network operating
authority.
NAC #: ________________________
Signature: ___________________________________________________
1.
2.
3.
4.
Date & time: ________________________
Grid).
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4.5 Pole-mounted capacitor bank

4.5.1
Purpose
This instruction covers the testing and commissioning of all replacements or new installations of pole-mounted
capacitor banks before energisation. The testing should verify that the equipment:
If a transformer is to be commissioned at the same time as a pole-top capacitor bank, refer to the instructions for
commissioning this item of equipment as well as the appropriate switching operations in the switching program.
4.5.2
Related information
None.
4.5.3
Capacitor banks must be installed in accordance with the appropriate guidelines in Distribution Construction
Standards Handbook HB01 and applicable design drawings.
authority.
4.5.4

1.
Check and comprehend the capacitor bank handover certificate.
2.
Check that the SPIDAWeb updater has generated the SPIDAWeb pick ID numbers for each item in accordance
with the as-constructed drawings.
3.
Record the address, work package number and SPIDAWeb pick ID.
4.
Check that the construction complies with the distribution construction standards.
5.
Check that all the earth connections (including capacitor and control) are properly connected and bonded to
earth.
6.
Consult the pole-top capacitor bank manufacturers operating and commissioning instruction manual to identify
any special items that are required to be checked or examined before the equipment is placed in service.
7.
Record the capacitor bank serial number, rating and stock code number in the data sheet.
8.
9.
Check that the capacitors have been correctly installed and that the electrical connections have been
re-tightened.
10. Install dropout fuses according to the design requirements. DO NOT ENERGISE. All dropout fuses and
capacitor bank switches must be open.

11. Check that the operating arm on the vacuum switches is OFF (i.e. the switches are in the down position).
12. Check that the settings of the protection circuits are correct.
13. Lock control unit doors with two Western Power approved padlocks.
14. Ensure that the control settings are configured to the desired set parameters. (Refer to the Distribution
Commissioning Work Instruction for the control setting and testing.)

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4.5.5
1.
Carry out the commissioning in accordance with the switching program.
2.
Ensure the feeder reclosers are set to MANUAL during the energisation period.
3.
Ensure all switches operate correctly.
4.
Where automation is provided, ensure that the SCADA labelling and operation is true and correct.
5.
Ensure all equipment is in its final circuit condition and all normally open points are set to their designated
position.
6.
Conduct a polarity test on the controller supply using a voltmeter or multi-tester to verify its safe operation.
7.
8.
Ensure all equipment is locked, signposted and protected from unauthorised entry.
9.

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4.5 POLE-MOUNTED CAPACITOR BANK
pole-mounted capacitor banks before energisation.
Note: The following tests must be carried out after installation and before the bank is put into service.
Address/Pole No.: ___________________________________________________________________
Work Package No.:_________________
SPIDAWeb Pick ID: _______________________________
Earth resistance
test and
nameplate

Ensure the capacitor bank rating matches the system voltage.
design drawings.
Structure
Check that all the earth connections (including the capacitor and control) are properly connected and
are bonded to earth.
Ensure that the insulated caps have been fitted to all the high voltage (HV) connections.
Check the capacitor for damage, tank, bushings, cracks in boots and excessive dirt.
Capacitor
Confirm that all electrical connections are tight.

Check that all the HV lightning arresters have bird caps fitted and are tensioned correctly.
Confirm that the fuse element size corresponds to the table below.
kV
HV dropout fuse
kVAR
11
22
33
500
40
20
16
1,000
80
40
31.5
Confirm all secondary connections are as per the wiring diagram.
H1
H2
Distribution
Transformer
Integrated
Voltage
Transformer
or
Junction Box
Neutral
Line
Close
Trip
White
Control unit
Green
Sw1
AC Line
AC Neutral
CS Neutral
Ground
Sw2
Sw3
B lue
As per
SW1
P ink
Orange
Gray
Black
As per
SW1
CS Hot
Open
Close
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Controller
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Signature: ____________________________________________________
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
NAC #: ________________________
Date & time: ________________________
DO NOT ENERGISE. All dropout fuses and capacitor bank switches must be open.
Lock control unit doors with two (NMK2) Western Power approved padlocks.
Inform NOCC of the status of the capacitor.
Ensure the work area is tidy with no hazards to the public.
Hand over responsibility to Field Services (Primary Response Group) for the commissioning of alarms and remote controls.
4. CONTROL SETTING AND TESTING

Integrated Voltage Transformer Supplied
Distribution Transformer Supplied
Check that all the dropout fuses and capacitor bank switches are open.
Disconnect the L and N from the voltage
transformer at the junction box and leave it safe.
N/A
Ensure SCADA CONTROL is set to LOCAL.

Ensure OPERATION MODE is set to MANUAL.
Connect the interface between the controller and the control cable.
Controller power
supply setting
instructions
Supply the controller (through an interface) from a

reliable 240 V source.
If a normal 240 V supply is unavailable, use a
minimum 3 kVA generator. Conduct a polarity test
on the 240 V supply.
For testing purposes, use an effective earthed
reference point spaced more than 2 meters from
any electrically conductive object embedded in
the ground.
Close the distribution transformer dropout fuses

to power up the controller, and conduct a polarity
test on the 240 V supply.
Press the switch on the interface to power up the

controller.
Non-telemetered
Telemetered IntelliCap Plus Controller
Upload the settings (.cfg) to the controller and adjust the date and time.
Temporarily change the Max Daily Ops to 1.
Change SCADA CONTROL to REMOTE.
Request an integrity scan to wake up the
communications.
Controller setting
and testing
instructions
Press the CLOSE button/toggle switch.
Operate SCADA CONTROL REMOTE/LOCAL

(Supervisory Control) to test the uncontrolled
change of state (UCOS) alarm.
Leave in REMOTE.
Operate OPERATION MODE AUTO/MANUAL to
test the UCOS alarm.
Leave in MANUAL.
Disconnect and reconnect the load fuse to test
the UCOS alarm.
Request a remote close command to test the
remote control function.
Check if the CLOSE LED/Lamp is blinking continuously and the manual operation delay (30 s) is
activated.
Wait for the capacitor bank to close.
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Press the OPEN button/toggle switch.
Request a remote open command to test the

remote control function.
The OPEN LED/Lamp blinks continuously and the manual operation delay (30 s) is activated.
Note: There is a 5 min delay (Reclose Block) between consecutive close commands. This allows time
for the capacitors to discharge. Any close commands within this period are denied by the controller.
Controller setting
and testing
instructions
(continued)
Wait for the capacitor bank switches to open.

Check that the Reclose Block and the Max Daily
Cycle are active.
Change SCADA CONTROL to LOCAL.
Change the Max Daily Ops back to its original setting.

Ensure that SCADA CONTROL is set to LOCAL.
Ensure that OPERATION MODE is set to AUTO.
5. PUTTING THE CAPACITOR INTO SERVICE

Integrated Voltage Transformer Supplied
Distribution Transformer Supplied
Press the switch on the controller interface to

OFF.
Remove the controller interface and reconnect
the control cable to the controller.
Controller setting
and testing
instructions
Reconnect the L and N in the junction box and

close the capacitor bank dropout fuses as per the
switching program.
Close the capacitor bank dropout fuse as per the

switching program and conduct a polarity test on
the 240 V supply.
Conduct a polarity test on the 240 V supply.

Set the controller to AUTO and either REMOTE (if there is a SCADA/comms link) to East Perth Control
Centre (EPCC) or LOCAL (if there is no SCADA/comms link) to the EPCC.
Do not manually close the capacitor bank onto the network.
After seven days in service, download a full report (.csv) from the controller. Save the file to the
relevant document management file and notify Network Planning.
Remove the Out Of Service (Warning) tag from the padlock on the front of the control cabinet.
authority.
Signature: ____________________________________________________
1.
2.
3.
4.
NAC #: ________________________
Date & time: ________________________
Grid).
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4.6 HV Single-phase underground rural supply fuse switch

4.6.1
Purpose
This instruction covers the testing and commissioning of all replacements or new installations of single-phase
underground rural supply fuse switches before energisation. The testing should verify that the equipment:
Use the instruction in conjunction with the Electrical System Safety Rules, the Work Practice Manual and the
Switching Operators manuals.
4.6.2
Related Information
None.
4.6.3
A single-phase underground rural supply fuse switch must be installed in accordance with the appropriate
guidelines in Distribution Construction Standards Handbook HB01 and applicable design drawings.
authority.
4.6.4

1.
2.
Check that the SPIDAWeb pick ID/pole numbers for each item are in accordance with the as-constructed
drawings.
3.
4.6.5
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
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installations of single-phase underground rural supply fuse switches before energisation.
Note: The following test must be carried out after installation and before the switch is put into service.
Address/Pole No.: ________________________________________________________
Work Package No.:__________ SPIDAWeb Pick ID: ___________ Fuse Size.:________A
Earth resistance test and
nameplate
Cable testing
Install a switch with blades
and contacts de-energised
and operate for a functional
test.

Ensure that the switch rating matches the system voltage.
Ensure that the cable Distribution Commissioning Work Instruction
(DM# 1641396 HV XLPE cables) has been completed with acceptable results.
Operate the switch and ensure that it operates ON and OFF smoothly and that
contacts are fully seated in the ON position and check fuse size. (Adjust if
necessary.)
Check that the construction complies with the distribution construction, labelling
standards and applicable design drawings.
Construction checks
Check the cables are properly connected and terminated.

Ensure that the switch body is properly earthed and secured.
INSULATION RESISTANCE TEST

Test Connection
for 1 minute
Values greater than 5000 M are
acceptable.
Expected Values
Test Results
Phase Earth (In comer)
> 5,000 M
Phase Frame ( In comer)
> 5,000 M
Phase Earth (Out comer
> 5,000 M
Phase Frame ( Out comer)
> 5,000 M
3. ENERGISATION
Ensure the switch is in the correct position (ON or OFF) as per the switching
program and network configuration.
Energisation
Fit a perspex cover and lock the unit door with a Western Power approved
padlock.
Energise the switch from the remote end of the incoming cable.
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I hereby certify that items 1 to 3 have been completed with satisfactory results and transfer control to the network
Signature:______________________________________________
1.
2.
3.
4.
NAC #: _____________________
Date & time: _____________________
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4.7 Voltage regulator (closed Delta connection)

4.7.1
Purpose
This instruction covers the testing and commissioning of all replacements or new installations of closed Delta
connected voltage regulators before energisation.
Operators manuals and the voltage regulator manufacturers operating and commissioning manual.
4.7.2
Related information
None.
4.7.3
Voltage regulators (with a closed Delta connection) must be installed in accordance with the appropriate guidelines
in Distribution Construction Standards Handbook HB01 and applicable design drawings.
4.7.4

1.
2.
drawings.
3.
4.
Ensure that the control settings are configured to the desired parameters.
4.7.5
Test criteria

Use a 5 kV insulation resistance tester and measure the resistance value after 1 minute of testing (R >1 G).
4.7.6
1.
To ensure that the voltage regulators function properly and automatically, test each voltage regulator control as
follows:
a. With the regulator bypass switch in a closed position and the S, L and SL switches in an open position,
turn off the power switch and the control switch inside the control box, if available. Check and ensure that
the potential switch (V1 and V6, if fitted, for Cooper; DS1 for GE) is in the closed position. Close the current
transformer bypass (C switch for Cooper; DS2 for GE). This is to ensure that the control does not respond
abruptly when energised.
b. With the L switch left in the open position, close the S and SL switch in order to energise the internal
potential transformer to supply the control. Phase out if necessary.
c. Turn the power switch to INTERNAL and the control switch to MANUAL in order to enable the control.
Operate the RAISE/LOWER button and observe if the regulator responds to the controls. A sound from the
internal motor together with the clicking of the taps should be heard whenever the regulator changes tap.
The tap position indicator together with the display in the control should indicate the same tap position and
also indicate the change in tap during this operation. This test is to ensure that the tap changer responds to
the control.
d. Return the tap changer to the neutral tap position by operating the RAISE/LOWER button. This can be
verified by checking the tap position indicator and ensuring that the neutral lamp/LED lights up.
e. Upload the settings to the control.
f. Measure the voltages at the voltmeter terminals or meter out and check that the measured voltage matches
that of the voltage displayed in the panel. This is to ensure that the voltage display is correct.
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g. Put the display into the band centre (Depress 1, SET voltage for Cooper; press the UP or DOWN and
ENTER button for GE). Set the control to MANUAL, then operate the RAISE button enough steps to put the
voltage out of bandwidth. Set the control switch to AUTO and wait for the 30 second time delay. The control
should cause the regulator to step down to the top bandwidth. This test is to ensure that the regulator
automatically works when the voltage is above the bandwidth.
h. Repeat the previous step, this time lowering the voltage below the bandwidth, by operating the LOWER
button, to test if the regulator automatically works when the voltage is below the bandwidth.
i. Set the voltage regulator to neutral by setting the control to MANUAL and operating the RAISE/LOWER
button as required, and ensuring that the neutral lamp/LED lights up. Initially set the regulator control current
transformer (CT)/voltage transformer (VT) configuration to Delta Lead for Cooper units or +30 for GE units.
This is to prepare the voltage regulator for commissioning.
2.
With all voltage regulator controls set to neutral and at manual operation, carry out the switching program by
closing all the L switches and opening the regulator bypass; then open the current transformer bypass
(C switch for Cooper; DS2 for GE).
3.
After 30 seconds, compare the power factor reading on the control display with NOCCs power factor reading
of the feeder of the installed voltage regulator. If checking the power factor reading with NOCC is not possible,
check that the power factor reading on the control display is within acceptable limits (0.50 to 0.99). If the power
factor reading is similar to NOCCs power factor reading or is within acceptable limits (if it could not be verified
with NOCC), set the control to AUTO and proceed to the handover of responsibility. The units have been
successfully commissioned.
4.
If the power factor reading is not similar to NOCCs power factor reading or is not within acceptable limits, set
the regulator control CT/VT configuration to Delta Lag for Cooper units or -30 (+330) for GE units. After
30 seconds, recheck NOCCs power factor reading of the feeder and compare it with the power factor reading
on the control display or recheck that the power factor reading on the control display is within acceptable limits.
If the power factor reading is similar to NOCCs power factor reading or is within acceptable limits, set the
control to AUTO and proceed to the handover of responsibility. The units have been successfully
commissioned.
5.
If the power factor reading is still dissimilar to NOCCs or is not within acceptable limits, DO NOT commission
the units. Leave the regulators in the neutral tap position and manual operations, close all regulator bypass
switches, open L, SL and S in that order, and report the problem to your formal leader for further investigation
with the supplier or manufacturer.
6.
7.
8.
9.
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4.7 VOLTAGE REGULATOR (CLOSED DELTA CONNECTION)
Purpose: This instruction covers the testing and commissioning of all replacements and new installations of closed
delta connected voltage regulators before energisation.
Note: The following tests must be carried out after installation and before the regulator is put into service.
Address/Pole No.: __________________________________________________________________
Work Package No.:_________________
SPIDAWeb Pick ID: ______________________________
Earth resistance test and

nameplate
Ensure that the voltage regulator rating matches the system voltage.

Short together the S, SL, and L
bushings using fuse wire or shorting
cables/clamps.
Connect the insulation resistance
tester between the shorted bushings
and earth.
The regulator must be in the neutral
tap position.
resistance tester.
Measure the resistance
after 1 minute of testing.
Test Results
Acceptable Results
VR 1 __________________M
VR 2 __________________M
>1,000 M/1 G
VR 3 __________________M
Check the regulator for damage, cracks, oil leaks, bushings and excessive dirt.
Structure
Ensure that the earthing system is complete and undamaged.

Ensure that insulated caps or extension skirts are fitted (if required).
Check that the plug indicator is set at the voltage at which the voltage regulator has been
connected for each phase.
R
Example: Cooper
Nameplate plug indicator

connection
TAP IN
USE
LOAD
VOLTS
CONTROL
WDG TAP
(TANK)
INTERNAL
PT RATIO
RCT TAP
(CONTROL)
TEST
TERMINAL
VOLTAGE
OVERALL
POTENTIAL RATIO
23,000
E1/P1
183.3 : 1
120
125.5
183.3 : 1
22,000
E1/P1
183.3 : 1
120
120
183.3 : 1
20,000
E1/P1
183.3 : 1
110
119
168 : 1
19,100
E1/P1
183.3 : 1
104
120
159.2 : 1
15,000
E2/P2
119.8 : 1
120
125.5
119.8 : 1
12,700
E2/P2
119.8 : 1
104
122.5
103.9 : 1
11,000
E3/P3
91.6 : 1
120
120
91.6 : 1
10,000
E3/P3
91.6 : 1
110
119
84.1 : 1
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Example: GE
POTENTIAL AND CONTROL POWER
LOAD TERMINAL
VOLTS
CONNECT
POTENTIAL CONTROL
RATIO
VOLTS
NN22 to
NN9 to
F1-2 to
22,000
183.3 : 1
120
NN21
T4-2
T4-3
19,100
159.2 : 1
120
NN21
T4-2
T4-1
12,700
105.8 : 1
120
NN20
T4-2
T4-4
11,000
91.6 : 1
120
NN20
T4- 2
T4-3
Note: For the GE controller, ensure that the connection of the power circuit board, which is located
inside the control cabinet in the upper RHS corner, is wired according to the regulator nameplate.
Example: For 22,000 V, the power circuit board is connected NN22 to NN21, NN9 to T4-2 and F1-2
to T4-3.
Nameplate plug indicator
connection (continued)
Confirm that the regulator is connected as per the diagram.
LOAD
SOURCE
PTSD/BYPASS SWITCH
R
W
B
L
LIGHTNING
(SHUNT)
ARRESTER
LIGHTNING (SERIES)
ARRESTER
NOTE: Cooper Voltage
Regulators Only
L
S
SL
SL
SL
Three Regulators, 3-phase, closed delta connected

Signature: ____________________________________________________
1.
NAC #: ________________________
Date & time: ________________________
2.
3.
4.
DO NOT ENERGISE THE REGULATOR. All the high voltage disconnectors connecting the regulator to the high voltage line
must be open.
The PTSD/BYPASS/ring main switch position must be set as per the network configuration.
Control unit doors must be locked with two (NMK2) Western Power approved padlocks.
5.
6.
7.
Inform NOCC of the status of the voltage regulator.

Hand over responsibility to Field Services (Primary Response Group) for commissioning.
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Select the power switch to OFF and the control switch to OFF.
Cooper
GE
The knife switches on the back panel should be

set with V1 (potential switch) and V6 (differential
voltage if fitted) closed and C (shorting switch)
closed.
V6 may be fitted to CL5A on earlier controllers.
The knife switches on the back panel should

be set with DS1 (potential switch) closed and
DS2 (CT shorting switch) closed.
Close the SL (source load) and the S (source) disconnectors.

Set the power switch to INTERNAL and the control switch to MANUAL.
Operate the RAISE/LOWER switch to bring the regulator tap position indicator to the neutral
position (zero) if required.
The controller neutral lamp/LED is lit while in the neutral position.
Check that the tap position indicator and the lamp/LED are synchronised before continuing.
Upload the settings to the control.
Cooper
GE
Measure the voltage at the voltmeter terminals

to check if the measured voltage closely
matches that of the voltage displayed on the
panel.
Measure the voltage at the meter out terminals

panel.
Cooper
Controller power
supply setting
instructions
GE
Using the UP, DOWN and ENTER buttons,

Depress 1, SET VOLTAGE (band centre)
press buttons until the display indicates the
keypad.
band centre.
Set the control switch to the MANUAL position. Operate the RAISE/LOWER switch to activate a
raise operation. Allow the tap changer to operate for enough steps to take voltage out of the
bandwidth. Set the control switch to the AUTO position. After a time delay (30 seconds) the
control should cause the regulator to step down to the top bandwidth edge.
Note: If bi-directional (Cooper) is set, it must be disabled (zero) before the AUTO setting can be
used.
Example: A setting of 120 V (band centre) and 2 V bandwidth = 121 V top bandwidth edge should
be shown in the display. When the voltage is in band and the tap changing has stopped, set the
control switch to MANUAL.
Operate the RAISE/LOWER switch to activate a lower operation.
Allow the tap changer to operate for enough steps to take the voltage out of the bandwidth. Set
the control switch to the AUTO position. After a time delay (30 seconds), the control should cause
the regulator to step up to the lower bandwidth edge.
Example: A setting of 120 V (band centre) and 2 V bandwidth = 119 V lower band edge should be
shown in the display. Set the control switch to the MANUAL position.
Operate the RAISE/LOWER switch and set the regulator to the neutral position.
Reset the drag hands to zero.
Phase out and then close the L (load) disconnecting switch.
Open the bypass switch.
Cooper
GE
Set each regulator control configuration to Delta

Lead.
Set the current transformer (CT)/voltage

transformer (VT) phasing angle setting on
each control to +30.
Open the CT shorting switch C.
Open the CT shorting switch DS2.
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After 30 seconds, check if the power factor reading in each control unit is within the acceptable
limits of 0.50 to 0.99; and, if possible, verify with NOCC that the controls power factor reading is
similar to the feeders power factor reading. If yes, set the control switch to the AUTO position and
proceed to item 6 (HANDOVER OF RESPONSIBILITY).
Controller power
supply setting
instructions
(continued)
If the power factor reading is not within acceptable limits or not similar to the feeders power factor
as verified with NOCC, set each regulator control to Delta Lag for Cooper or set the CT/VT
phasing angle setting to -30 (+330) for GE units. Recheck the power factor readings after
1 minute and, if the readings are within acceptable limits or are similar to the feeders power factor
readings, set the control switch to the AUTO position and proceed to item 6 (HANDOVER OF
RESPONSIBILITY).
If the power factor reading is still not within acceptable limits or not similar to the feeder reading,
ensure that the voltage regulator is in a neutral position, close the bypass switch, open the S and
L switch and report it to your formal leader for further investigation.
I hereby certify that item 5 has been completed with the above results and transfer control to the network operating authority.
Signature: ___________________________________________________
1.
2.
3.
4.
NAC #: ________________________
Date & time: ________________________
Grid).
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4.8 Voltage regulator (Star connection)

4.8.1
Purpose
This instruction covers the testing and commissioning of all replacements or new installations of Star connected
voltage regulators before energisation.
4.8.2
Related Information
None.
4.8.3
A voltage regulator (with Star connection) must be installed in accordance with the appropriate guidelines in
Distribution Construction Standards Handbook HB01 and applicable design drawings.
4.8.4

1.
2.
drawings.
3.
4.
Ensure that the control settings are configured to the desired parameters.
4.8.5
Test criteria

Use a 5 kV insulation resistance tester and measure the resistance after 1 minute of testing (R >1 M).
4.8.6
1. To ensure that the voltage regulators function properly and automatically, test each voltage regulator control as
follows:
a. With the regulator bypass switch in a closed position and the S and L switch in an open position, turn off
the power switch and the control switch inside the control box, if available. Ensure that the potential switch
(V1 and V6, if fitted, for Cooper; or DS1 for GE) are in the closed position. Close the current transformer
bypass (C switch for Cooper; DS2 for GE). This ensures that the control does not respond abruptly when
energised.
b. With the L switch left in the open position, close the S switch in order to energise the internal potential
transformer to supply the control. Phase out if necessary.
c.
Turn the power switch to INTERNAL and the control switch to MANUAL in order to enable the control.
Operate the RAISE/LOWER button and observe if the regulator responds to the controls. A sound from the
internal motor together with the clicking of the taps should be heard whenever the regulator changes tap.
The tap position indicator together with the display in the control should indicate the same tap position and
also indicate the change in tap during this operation. This test ensures that the tap changer responds to the
control.
d. Return the tap changer to the neutral tap position by operating the RAISE/LOWER button. This can be
verified by checking the tap position indicator and ensuring that the neutral lamp/LED lights up.
e. Upload the settings to the control.
f.
Measure the voltages at the voltmeter terminals or meter out and check that the measured voltage
matches that of the voltage displayed in the panel. This ensures that the voltage display is correct.
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g. Put the display into band centre (Depress 1, SET VOLTAGE for Cooper; press the UP or DOWN and
ENTER button for GE). Set the control to MANUAL, then operate the RAISE button enough steps to put the
voltage out of bandwidth. Set the control switch to AUTO and wait for the 30 second time delay. The
control should cause the regulator to step down to the top bandwidth. This test ensures that the regulator
works automatically when the voltage is above the bandwidth.
h. Repeat the previous step, this time lowering the voltage below the bandwidth, by operating the LOWER
button, to test if the regulator works automatically when the voltage is below the bandwidth.
i.
Set the voltage regulator to neutral by setting the control to MANUAL and operating the RAISE/LOWER
button as required, and ensuring that the neutral lamp/LED lights up. This prepares the voltage regulator
for commissioning.
2. Carry out the switching program by closing the L switch and opening the regulator bypass switches.
3. Open the current transformer shorting links (C for Cooper and DS2 for GE). Set the control to AUTO and
proceed to the handover of responsibility. The voltage regulator has been successfully commissioned.
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4.8 VOLTAGE REGULATOR (STAR CONNECTION)
Star connected voltage regulators before energisation.
Note: The following tests must be carried out after installation and before the regulator is put into service.
tightened.
Address/Pole No.: ________________________________________________________________
Work Package No.:_________________ SPIDAWeb Pick ID: _____________________________
Earth resistance
test and nameplate

Ensure the voltage regulator rating matches the system voltage.

Use a 5 kV
insulation
resistance tester.
Measure the
resistance after
1 minute of testing.
Test Results
Short together the S, SL, and L

bushings using fuse wire or
shorting cables/clamps.
Acceptable Results
VR 1 __________________M
Connect the insulation resistance

tester between the shorted
bushings and earth.
VR 2 __________________M
The regulator must be in a

neutral tap position.
VR 3 __________________M
>1,000 M/1 G
design drawings.
Structure
Check the regulator for damage, cracks, oil leaks, bushings and excessive dirt.
Ensure that the earthing system is complete and undamaged.
Ensure that insulated caps or extension skirts are fitted (if required).
Check that the plug indicator is set at the voltage at which the voltage regulator has been connected
for each phase.
EXAMPLE: COOPER
TAP IN USE
Nameplate plug
indicator connection
LOAD VOLTS
CONTROL
WDG TAP
(TANK)
INTERNAL
PT RATIO
RCT TAP
(CONTROL)
TEST
TERMINAL
VOLTAGE
OVERALL
POTENTIAL
RATIO
23,000
E1/P1
183.3 : 1
120
125.5
183.3 : 1
22,000
E1/P1
183.3 : 1
120
120
183.3 : 1
20,000
E1/P1
183.3 : 1
110
119
168 : 1
19,100
E1/P1
183.3 : 1
104
120
159.2 : 1
15,000
E2/P2
119.8 : 1
120
125.5
119.8 : 1
12,700
E2/P2
119.8 : 1
104
122.5
103.9 : 1
11,000
E3/P3
91.6 : 1
120
120
91.6 : 1
10,000
E3/P3
91.6 : 1
110
119
84.1 : 1
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EXAMPLE: GE
POTENTIAL AND CONTROL POWER
LOAD TERMINAL VOLTS
CONNECT
POTENTIAL
RATIO
CONTROL
VOLTS
NN22 TO
NN9 TO
F1-2 TO
22,000
183.3 : 1
120
NN21
T4-2
T4-3
19,100
159.2 : 1
120
NN21
T4-2
T4-1
12,700
105.8 : 1
120
NN20
T4-2
T4-4
11,000
91.6 : 1
120
NN20
T4-2
T4-3
Note: For the GE controller, ensure that the connection of the power circuit board, which is located
inside the control cabinet in the upper RHS corner, is wired according to the regulator nameplate.
Example: For 19,100 V, the power circuit board is connected NN22 to NN21, NN9 to T4-2, and F1-2
to T4-1.
Nameplate plug
indicator
connection
Confirm that the regulator is connected as per diagram.
(continued)
LOAD
SOURCE
PTSD/BYPASS SWITCH
R
W
B
LIGHTNING (SERIES)
ARRESTER
NOTE: Cooper Voltage
Regulators Only
L
LIGHTNING
(SHUNT)
ARRESTER
SL
SL
SL
Three Regulators, 3-phase, star connected

Signature: ___________________________________________________
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
NAC #: ________________________
Date & time: ________________________
DO NOT ENERGISE THE REGULATOR. All the high voltage disconnectors connecting the regulator to the high voltage line
must be open.
The PTSD/BYPASS/ring main switch position must be as per the network configuration.
The control unit doors must be locked with two (NMK2) Western Power approved padlocks.
Inform NOCC of the status of the voltage regulator.
Hand over responsibility to Field Services (Primary Response Group) for commissioning.
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Set the power switch to OFF and the control switch to OFF.
Cooper
GE

set with V1 (potential switch) and V6 (differential
voltage, if fitted) closed and C (shorting switch)
closed.
V6 may be fitted to CL5A on earlier controllers.

set with DS1 (potential switch) closed and DS2
(CT shorting switch) closed.
Close the S (source) disconnectors.

Set the power switch to INTERNAL and the control switch to MANUAL.
Operate the RAISE/LOWER switch to bring the regulator tap position indicator to the neutral position
(zero), if required.
The controller neutral lamp/LED is lit while in the neutral position.
Check that the tap position indicator and the lamp/LED are synchronised before continuing.
Upload the settings to the control.
Cooper
GE
Measure the voltage at the voltmeter terminals

panel.
Measure the voltage at the meter out terminals

panel.
Cooper
Controller power
supply setting
instructions
GE
Depress 1, SET VOLTAGE (band centre)

keypad.
Press the UP, DOWN and ENTER buttons until

the display indicates the band centre.
Set the control switch to MANUAL.

Operate the RAISE/LOWER switch to activate a raise operation.
Allow the tap changer to operate for enough steps to take voltage out of the bandwidth.
Set the control switch to AUTO.
After a time delay (30 seconds), the control should cause the regulator to step down to the top
bandwidth edge.
Note: If bi-directional (Cooper) is set, it must be disabled (zero) before AUTO can be used.
Example: A setting of 120 V (band centre) and 2 V bandwidth = 121 V top bandwidth edge should
be shown in the display. When the voltage is in band and the tap changing has stopped, set the
control switch to MANUAL.
Operate the RAISE/LOWER switch to activate a lower operation.
Allow the tap changer to operate for enough steps to take the voltage out of the bandwidth.
Set the control switch to AUTO.
After time delay (30 seconds), the control should cause the regulator to step up to the lower
bandwidth edge.
Example: A setting of 120 V (band centre) and 2 V bandwidth = 119 V lower band edge should be
shown in the display. Set the control switch to MANUAL.
Operate the RAISE/LOWER switch and set the regulator to the neutral position.
Reset the drag hands to zero.
Phase out and then close the L (load) disconnecting switch.
Open the bypass switch.
Cooper
GE
Open the CT shorting switch C and return the

control switch to the AUTO position.
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Open the CT shorting switch DS2 and return the

control switch to the AUTO position.
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I hereby certify that item 5 has been completed with the above results and transfer control to the network operating authority.
Signature: ___________________________________________________
1.
2.
3.
4.
NAC #: ________________________
Date & time: ________________________
Grid).
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4.9 HV ring main switchgear

4.9.1
Purpose
This instruction covers the testing and commissioning of all replacements or new installations of HV ring main
switchgear. The testing should verify that the equipment:
has been installed in the network correctly.
If a transformer and LV switchgear are to be commissioned at the same time as the ring main switchgear, refer to
the instructions for commissioning these items of equipment as well as the appropriate switching operations in the
switching program.
4.9.2
Related information
Australian Standard AS 20672008: Substations and High Voltage Installations Exceeding 1 kV AC. Published
by Standards Australia.
AS 62271.12012: High Voltage Switchgear and Control Gear Common Specifications.
4.9.3
4.9.3.1 HV ring main switchgear
The ring main switchgear must be installed in accordance with the appropriate guidelines in the Underground
Distribution Systems Policy and Installations Options Manual and applicable design drawings.
Where extensible switchgear has been assembled on site to form a composite type switchboard, then, prior to
terminating the cables, the installer must test it to Australian Standards AS 2067 and AS 62271.12012.
On completion of a HV switchgear testing schedule, the installer must issue an earthing testing schedule and
handover certificate to the project manager.
4.9.3.2 HV underground cables

The cables must be installed, terminated and jointed in accordance with the appropriate standards and guidelines
and as detailed in the Underground Distribution Systems Policy and Installations Options Manual.
As a minimum, the installer must affix temporary labels to all switches stating the destinations of all cables. (More
permanent labels may be fitted at this time.)
Sheath and insulation tests must be carried out and the results recorded. On completion, the installer must issue a
HV cable testing schedule and a handover certificate to the project manager. The equipment as-constructed
drawings must be prepared and issued prior to the project manager accepting and signing off on the handover
certificate.
4.9.4

1.

Note: This should include the switchgear and connecting cable.
2.
Check the HV switchgear testing schedules as appropriate.

Note: Non-extensible switchgear does not require additional on-site testing.
3.
Check the HV cable testing schedule.
4.
Check the earthing testing schedule.
5.
Check that the SPIDAWeb pick ID numbers for each item of equipment are in accordance with the
6.
Prepare a substation location label and permanent cable destination labels in accordance with Distribution
Equipment Labelling Network Standard NS 05-2000, if not already completed.
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7.
Consult the switchgear manufacturers operating and commissioning instruction manual to identify any items
that must be checked before the equipment is placed in service.
Note: Before proceeding, ensure cables on either side of the HV switchgear and either side of ring main unit
are de-energised and disconnected.
8.
Where appropriate, check the gas leakage indication gauge to verify that the switchgear has sufficient service
pressure.
9.
If a switch disconnector or fuse switch is spare and does not have a cable connected, then check that it is
selected to the earth position and that it is appropriately tagged. Spare units must always be set to the earth
position.
10. Clean away any dust which may have blown onto the unit during the installation activities.
11. Check that all HV cable terminations are secure and that the correct bailing assemblies are used.
12. Check that any unused bushings are correctly capped with rated parts and bailing fitted.
13. Check that drain wires are fitted to all HV elbow connectors and connected to a cable screen.
Note: This ensures the elbows are safe to touch.

14. Check that the HV cable screens are all solidly and separately connected and bolted to the HV earth bar.
15. Ensure the integrity of the earthing system.
16. Ensure that the switch disconnectors are in the OFF position and that the fuse switches are off and in the
EARTH position.
17. If the ring main unit is in a kiosk, check that the kiosk body is earthed correctly, including the kiosk doors.
18. Ensure all personnel engaged in performing this task have vacated the test area and are outside the safety
barriers.
19. Install high rupturing capacity fuses according to the design and ensure that the striker pin faces the striker bar.
Note: Clean the inside of the fuse compartment of all visible dirt.
20. Switch the transformer fuse switch back to the OFF position.
4.9.5
Test criteria

The purpose of this test is to verify the integrity of the busbar with respect to earth.
Before connecting any cable, use a 5 kV insulation resistance tester for 1 minute and record the value. The
insulation resistance test value must be greater than 5,000 M/5 G.
The purpose of this test is to verify the connection between the same phase.
Test between all bushings of the same phase using a 1 kV insulation resistance tester to verify continuity
(R = 0 M).
Close all earthing switches and open all load-carrying switches. Connect an insulation resistance tester between all
bushings of the same phase and earth bar to verify continuity.
4.9.6
1. Carry out the commissioning program according to the Switching Operators manuals and the switching
program.
2. Operate all switch mechanisms for proper functioning. Test the earth switches. Test all interlock mechanisms to
confirm correct functioning and test the interlock mechanisms inhibit function for any improper operational
actions.
Note: Interlocks have only been tested to confirm that an operational action is allowed when such an action is
permissible. The interlock mechanism must also be tested to confirm that an operational action is positively
prevented when that action should never occur.
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3. Phase out the HV ring main switchgear in accordance with the NOCC switching program.
testing schedule.
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4.9 HIGH VOLTAGE RING MAIN SWITCHGEAR
installations of high voltage (HV) ring main switchgear.
Note: The following tests and checks must be carried out after installation and before the switchgear is put into service. Ensure the
HV cables on either side of the ring main units are de-energised and disconnected before carrying out this commissioning
exercise.
Address/Pole No.: _________________________________________________________
Work Package No.:_________________ SPIDAWeb Pick ID: ______________________
1. HV METERING UNIT (IF APPLICABLE): VISUAL INSPECTION AND SAFETY CHECK

Indicate whether the HV metering unit is an indoor unit or an outdoor unit.
Indoor unit
Outdoor unit
Check that the voltage of the extensible metering unit is correct for the application.
Check that the HV metering unit has a HV test lab test certificate or tags for the current transformers and voltage
transformers.
Ensure that the HV test lab accuracy test certificate serial number matches the extensible metering unit serial number.
Ensure that the metering officer has completed the Distribution Commissioning Work Instruction for HV metering units.
Record the name of the metering officer. ______________________________________________
2. HV RING MAIN SWITCHGEAR: VISUAL INSPECTION AND SAFETY CHECK

HV switchgear serial number: ___________________
Check that the HV switchgear matches the drawings provided.
Check that the switchgear is numbered and labelled correctly.
Check that the gas pressure is sufficient and record the value (if applicable).
____________ MPA
Check that the HV ring main switchgear is de-energised before testing. (Cables disconnected.)
Check that the earthing has been completed as per the design drawings (Refer to clauses 9 and 8.5 of AS 2067:2008.), and
that the grading ring is installed and connected to the HV earth bar.
Verify the minimum heights and protective barrier clearances.
Conduct functional tests of electrical equipment and parts of the installation; verify the settings, circuitry and programming;
verify the operation and configuration by measurement or testing of protective, monitoring, measuring and control devices.
Verify that the fire ratings for the building and enclosures are correct and that the emergency exits are operational.
Verify the minimum clearances between the live parts and earth.
Inspect the markings, safety signs and safety devices.

The purpose of this test is to verify the integrity of the busbar with respect to earth.
This test must be carried out before any cables are
connected.
Open all earthing switches and close all load-carrying
switches.
Conduct an insulation resistance test of the busbar
with a 5 kV insulation resistance tester for 1 minute
and record the value.
The value must be greater than 5,000 M/5 G.
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Test Connection
Expected Values
Red - white
> 5,000 M/5 G
White - blue
> 5,000 M/5 G
Blue - red
> 5,000 M/5 G
Red - earth
> 5,000 M/5 G
White - earth
> 5,000 M/5 G
Blue - earth
> 5,000 M/5 G
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4. Continuity test
The purpose of this test is to verify the connection between the same phase.
Test Connection
Connect an insulation resistance tester set at 1 kV
and test between all bushings of the same phase to
prove continuity.
Close all earthing switches and open all load-carrying
switches. Connect an insulation resistance tester
between all bushings of the same phase and earth
bar to prove continuity.
Expected Values
Test Results
Red - red
0 M
White - white
0 M
Blue - blue
0 M
Red - earth
0 M
White - earth
0 M
Blue - earth
0 M
Pass
Fail
Pass
Fail

I hereby certify that item 1 to 4 has been completed with the above results and transfer control to the project manager.
Testing officer: ____________________________________________________
Signature: ___________________________________________________
NAC #: ________________________
Date & time: ________________________
6. CABLE TERMINATION AND OTHER CHECKS

Check that all the HV cable terminations are secure and that the correct bailing assemblies are used.
Check that all the HV cable terminations are tightened to the required manufacturer standard.
Check that the drain wires are fitted to all HV elbow connectors and are connected to the cable screen.
Check that the HV cable screens are all solidly and separately connected and bolted to the HV earth bar.
Ensure that the 25 mm clearance between the cable screens and the cable support brackets is maintained. (Refer to
drawing number DSM 8 07.)
Check that no HV cables are exposed. Backfill if necessary.
If the ring main unit is in a kiosk, check that the kiosk body is earthed correctly, including the kiosk doors.
Ensure that all load-carrying switches are OFF, that their earth switches are ON, and that padlocks and danger labels are
fitted.
Ensure the site is safe and barricaded where necessary, with no hazards to personnel or the public.
For Schneider RM6 ring main
switchgear, check the following:
black bolts on the top edge of all
switch disconnector panels
interlocking pin and metal tab
chassis correctly installed
short lintel bars.
For more information, refer to
DM# 8404483.
Check that the two black bolts located on the top edge of all switch disconnector
panels are installed and tightened.
Check the interlocking pin and metal tab located on the top edge of switch
disconnector door panels and on the inner edge of the fuse cover top panel.
Ensure they are not bent and are firmly attached to the panels.
Ensure that the chassis of the RM6 ring main unit is mounted on a flat, even
surface and is not distorted.
Check that the short lintel bars located at the front bottom of the RM6 cable
compartments are installed and bolted down. Align the front lintel bars and tighten the
mounting bolts so that the door panels fit the cable compartment door frames
properly.
7. HANDOVER OF RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE COMPLETION OF ITEM 6

I hereby certify that item 6 has been completed with the above results and transfer control to the project manager.
Testing officer: ____________________________________________________
Signature: ___________________________________________________
DM# 10701697
NAC #: ________________________
Date & time: ________________________
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8. COMMISSIONING AND ENERGISATION

Ensure that the high voltage cable testing schedule is available and that the results are acceptable.
Ensure that the earthing system test result is available and that the results are acceptable. Phase out the HV ring main
switchgear in accordance with the switching program.
Record the value.
Ensure that the inside of the fuse compartment is clean and install the HV high rupturing capacity fuses according to the
fuse chart size. Ensure that the striker pin faces the striker bar.
Record the switching program number: _____________
The following checks need to be completed in
conjunction with the appropriate steps in the
switching program (where applicable).
Check that the neon light is connected to the
correct phase by measuring the voltage at the
test points.
Take one cubicle as a reference and test the
red phase of that cubicle against the red phase
and other phases of the other cubicle.
Red to red should return minimum volts, and
other phases should have a maximum voltage.
Repeat this procedure with the other phases.
Connection
R1 - R2
Pass
Connection
W1 - R2
Fail
R1 - W2
Pass
Pass
B1 - R2
Fail
W1 - W2
Fail
R1 - B2
Pass
Connection
Pass
Fail
B1 - W2
Fail
W1 - B2
Fail
Pass
Fail
Pass
Pass
Fail
B1 - B2
Pass
Fail
Ensure that all equipment is in its final circuit conditions as per the switching program.
Ensure that all equipment is locked, numbered and labelled correctly, and secure from unauthorised entry.
The switching operator must contact NOCC and ensure that the switchgear labels match the ENMAC or PowerOn Fusion
diagrams.
Note: Any changes to the original design must be marked, documented and stamped As Constructed.
I hereby certify that item 8 has been completed with satisfactory results and transfer control to the network operating authority.
Testing officer: ____________________________________________________
Signature: ___________________________________________________
1.
2.
3.
4.
NAC #: ________________________
Date & time: ________________________
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4.10 LV kiosk
4.10.1 Purpose
This instruction provides guidelines for the commissioning of LV kiosk. The testing should verify that the equipment:
has been installed in the network correctly.
If a transformer and LV switchgear are to be commissioned at the same time as the ring main switchgear, refer to
the instructions for commissioning these items of equipment as well as the appropriate switching operations in the
switching program.
4.10.2 Scope
This instruction is required to be followed for all LV switchgear that is to be connected to Western Powers SWIS
4.10.3 References
Australian Standard AS 30002007: Electrical Installations (known as the Australian/New Zealand Wiring Rules).
4.10.4 Responsible persons
The project manager or officer in charge is responsible for performing the testing in accordance with this
instruction.
The tester in charge is responsible for carrying out all necessary inspections and tests to verify that the LV
switchgear is suitable for operational service in accordance with this instruction and for recording all test results
and additional comments where relevant.
4.10.5 Equipment pre-handover status
LV kiosk
The LV kiosk must be installed in accordance with the appropriate guidelines in the Underground Distribution
Systems Policy and Installations Options Manual and applicable design drawings.
On completion, the installer must issue a handover certificate to the project manager.
4.10.6 LV underground cables
The cables must be installed, terminated and jointed in accordance with the appropriate standards and guidelines
as detailed in the Underground Distribution Systems Policy and Installations Options Manual.
As minimum, the installer must affix temporary labels to all relevant network equipment such as fuse disconnector
units stating the destinations of all cables.
Insulation, continuity and phase-out tests must be carried out and the results recorded.
On completion, the installer must issue an LV cable testing schedule, an LV continuity and phasing schedule, an
earthing test schedule and a handover certificate to the project manager.
4.10.7 Pre-commissioning checks
1.

Note: This should include the cables and switchgear.
2.
Check the LV cable testing schedules.
3.
4.
Prepare permanent cable destination labels in accordance with Distribution Equipment Labelling Network
5.
If a fuse disconnector is spare and does not have a cable connected then check that it is appropriately tagged.
6.
Ensure that all conditions mentioned in the distribution transformer pre-commissioning requirements are met.
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7.
Check that the enclosure is satisfactory for the environment at the location of installation.
8.
Check that the electrical equipment complies with relevant designs and drawings.
9.
Check that the voltage rating of electrical equipment is suitable for the nominal supply voltage.
10. Check that each item of electrical equipment is suitable for the design current loadings and current protection
devices.
11. Check for protection against indirect contact by way of arrangements, barriers or screens.
12. Check that minimum clearances and creepage distances are maintained.
13. Check the mechanical operation of all switches, fuse holders and fuse ways.
14. Check that all electrical equipment is labelled and identified in accordance with relevant drawings.
The following test and checks must be carried out on new installations of LV kiosks. This is the minimum testing
requirement before energisation.
4.10.8 Test criteria
Remove the transformer links and verify that the busbars are de-energised before carrying out this test.
Use a 1 kV insulation resistance tester (never use 5 kV insulation tester for this test) between busbars and busbars
to neutral.
Test and record the insulation resistance values measured using an insulation resistance tester connected as
follows:
Measured values of 10 M or greater are acceptable.
If energisation does not follow immediately after commissioning, the insulation resistance test must be
repeated and the values must be measured prior to energisation.

otherwise, phase out as required.
testing schedule.
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4.10 LOW VOLTAGE KIOSK
installations of low voltage kiosks before energisation.
Note: The following tests and checks must be carried out after installation and before the kiosk is put into service.
Work Package No.:_________________ Test Site/Location: ___________________________________
Check that the kiosk has been installed as per the distribution construction standards and applicable design
drawings.
Check that the kiosk is numbered and labelled correctly (for both fuse bases and covers).
Check that the earthing work has been completed as per the design drawings.
Check that the neutral to earth link is connected and that the connections are completed correctly and secured.
Test Connection
Remove the transformer links and confirm
that the busbars are de-energised before
carrying out this test.
Use a 1 kV insulation resistance tester.
Conduct insulation and continuity tests.
Minimum Values
Test Results
Red phase - white phase
>10 M
White phase - blue phase
>10 M
Blue phase - red phase
>10 M
Red phase - earth
>10 M
White phase - earth
>10 M
Blue phase - earth
>10 M

I hereby certify that items 1 to 2 have been completed with satisfactory results and transfer control to the
Signature:______________________________________________
NAC #: _____________________
Date & time: _____________________
Note: A final insulation test between all phases and neutral/earth on all low voltage circuits must be performed before
energising for the first time. This also applies if any connections have been disturbed or replaced.
4. CABLE AND SITE CHECKS
Check that the cable testing schedules are available as per the Distribution Commissioning Work Instruction.
Check that the earthing system test results are available for new installations as per the Distribution
Commissioning Work Instruction.
Check that the equipment is locked correctly and secure from unauthorised entry.
5.
PHASE-OUT TEST
If the LV network is to be interconnected with another LV network, phase out at the normally open point;
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I hereby certify that all items have been completed with satisfactory results and transfer control to the operating
authority.
Commissioning officer/project manager: __________________________
Signature:______________________________________________
1.
2.
3.
4.
NAC #: _____________________
Date & time: _____________________
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Appendix 1 Commissioning Officer authorisation requirements to commission distribution equipment

Commissioning Officer authorisation requirements to commission distribution equipment
Role
Additional training
1.1
1.2
Developer
Jointer
Developer
Electrician
PTS 290 or
289 or 3127
or 3128
Distribution
Linespersons
PTS 2711 or
3632
Distribution
Jointer
PTS 2711 or
3632
PTS 2711 or
3632, plus PTS
7213
Cable
test
section
LV switching officer
HV switching officer
Applicable level
Applicable level
LV overhead lines
Energise and phase out
Install and test
LV ABC
Install and test
1.4
HV ABC and Hendrix spacer cable
Install and test6
2.1
HV XLPE cable
UDSM4
UDSM4
HV mixed cable
Joint and test5
Test
VLF
Joint and test
Test
VLF
Test
Hipot
Test
Hipot
2.3
HV paper-insulated belted cable
Joint and test
2.4
HV paper-insulated screened cable
Joint and test5
2.5
LV XLPE cable
2.6
Tester
in
Charge
Install and test6
HV overhead powerlines
1.3
2.2
Electrician
(Cert III)
Automation
equipment
Commissioning
Officer
Network Invest
& others
LV cable with/without pillars
UDSM4
UDSM4
UDSM
UDSM
Connect and test
Joint and test5
Connect and test
Joint and test
DCWI FORMS
2.7
Steel standard streetlights
UDSM
UDSM
Connect and test
Joint and test
2.8
SPUDS single-phase to three-phase
UDSM4
UDSM4
Install and test
Joint and test5
2.9
Pole to pillar
UDSM4
Install and test
Joint and test5
3.1
MPS distribution transformer
UDSM4
Install and test
Install and test
3.2
Non-MPS distribution transformer
UDSM
3.3
Single phase transformer (pole-mounted/pad-mounted)
UDSM4
Install and test6
Install and test
3.4
Three-phase transformer (pole-mounted)
UDSM4
Install and test6
Connect and test
3.5
SWER isolation transformer (pole-mounted)
Install and test6
Connect and test
3.6
SWER isolation transformer (ground mounted)
Install and test
4.1
Earth testing
4.2
4.3
UDSM4
Install and test
Install and test
Nulec load break switch/sectionaliser
Install and test6
Nulec pole-mounted automatic control recloser
Install and test6
Install and test
Install and test
Install and test
Install and test
Install and test
Install and test
4.4
Pole-top switch
Install and test
4.5
Pole-mounted capacitor bank
Install and test6
4.6
HV single-phase underground rural supply fuse switch
Install and test
4.7
Voltage regulator (closed Delta connection)
Install and test
Install and test
4.8
Voltage regulator (Star connection)
Install and test
Install and test
4.9
HV ring main switchgear
UDSM4
Install and test
LV kiosk
UDSM4
Install and test
4.10
See the Notes section, below.

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Install and test


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Notes
1.
PTS 271 (Distribution Testing and Commissioning) is a standalone course with the following prerequisites: Cert III Linesperson (or equivalent) or Electrician.
2.
PTS 363 (Distribution Testing and Commissioning) is a unit that is part of the Cert III Linesperson course.
3.
Automation equipment Commissioning Officers who have completed PTS 721 (Nu-Lec Reclosers and Load Break Switches) can carry out tests as indicated, including primary insulation resistance testing and current readings.
4.
Refer to Underground Distribution Scheme Manual (UDSM), Qualification Matrix 6.2.7.6, for the tasks that Developers can perform.
5.
Dx Jointers can only perform insulation, core to core and continuity tests on cables.
6.
Dx Linespersons can only perform continuity, insulation and phase-to-phase tests on lines and pole mounted equipment.
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Network Standard 11 / 2013

Testing and Commissioning

Copyright of Western Power

Network Standard NS 11/2013

Distribution Standards Policy Manager

Distribution Policy Team Leader

Engineering Team Leader

Engineering Team Leader

Work Practice Development Team Leader

Distribution Policy Team Leader

Training Program and Development Manager

Training Delivery Team Leader

Document version history

DM# 7892458 v7H

DM# 7892458 v8B

Work Practices Manager

Network Standard NS 11/2013

DCWI revision status as of Nov 2013

High voltage overhead line

Low voltage overhead line

Low voltage aerial bundled conductor

High voltage ABC and Hendrix spacer cables

High voltage XLPE cable testing

High voltage mixed cable testing

High voltage paper-insulated belted cables

High voltage paper-insulated screened cable testing

Low voltage XLPE cable testing

Low voltage cable with/without pillars testing

Steel standards streetlights

SPUDS single-phase to three-phase pillar

MPS distribution transformer

Non-MPS distribution transformer

Single-phase transformer (pole mount/pad mount)

Three-phase transformer (pole mount)

SWER isolation transformer (pole mount)

SWER isolation transformer (ground mount)

Nulec load break switch/sectionaliser

Nulec pole-mounted automatic control recloser

Pole-mounted capacitor bank

SPURS fuse switch

Voltage regulator (closed Delta connection)

Voltage regulator (Star connection)

High voltage ring main switchgear

Low voltage kiosk

Network Standard NS 11/2013

HV overhead powerlines .............................................................................................................................13

Section 2 Underground cable ................................................................................................................................25

HV XLPE cable ............................................................................................................................................26

Section 3 Distribution transformers .....................................................................................................................71

MPS distribution transformer .......................................................................................................................72

Section 4 Distribution equipment .......................................................................................................................101

Earth testing ..............................................................................................................................................102

Appendix 1 Commissioning Officer authorisation requirements to commission distribution equipment .149

Network Standard NS 11/2013

The commissioning officer signs the document before energisation.

Safety aspects and work skills

Network Standard NS 11/2013

Network Standard NS 11/2013

Network Standard NS 11/2013

Network Standard NS 11/2013

Network Standard NS 11/2013

Network Standard NS 11/2013

Network Standard NS 11/2013

Section 1 Overhead lines