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OPERATING HANDBOOK
HEAD OFFICE:
Park House,
Greenhill Crescent,
Watford,
Herts. WD18 8PH UK
Version : V4.04
Date:
13th May 2002
Filename:
ELCID_ELAN-V4.04.doc
This handbook is written to give guidance as to the use and application of the
Digital EL CID System for use by a professional electrical engineer in normal
circumstances. The user is expected to study the enclosed theoretical
teachings, explanations and advice, and consider the best application of the
test system in their circumstances.
However as the use of the equipment is beyond the control of ADWEL,
neither ADWEL International Ltd., any member of ADWEL International
Ltd., nor any person or organisation acting on behalf of them can assume
responsibility for any damages or other liability whatsoever including any
consequential damages (even if ADWEL International Ltd., or any ADWEL
International Ltd. representative has been advised of the possibility of such
damages) resulting from your selection or use of this equipment or any
information, apparatus, method, or process, or similar item disclosed in this
handbook, or for any error or omission in this handbook.
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V4.04
CONTENTS
Page
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Fig. 21
Fig. 22
Fig. 23
Fig. 24
Fig. 25
Fig. 26
Fig. 27
Fig. 28
Fig. 29
Fig. 30
Fig. 31
Fig. 32
Fig. 33
Fig. 34
Fig. 35
Fig. 36
Fig. 37
Fig. 38
Fig. 39
Fig. 40
Fig. 41
Fig. 42
Fig. 43
Fig. 44
Fig. 45
Fig. 46
Fig. 47
Fig. 48
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intended to alert the user to dangerous voltages or operating conditions that may be
of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock or other hazard if the
related instructions are not followed.
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1. INTRODUCTION
1.1
1.2
EL CID Background
An alternative method of detection of faults in core interlamination insulation by
electromagnetic means was developed by the Central Electrical Research Laboratory of
the UK C.E.G.B. (now Innogy plc). Instead of the previous full flux working level the
newer method uses only a small fraction of rated excitation to generate fault currents
within the core body which are sensed by a pick-up coil. This avoids the testing
problems usually found with high excitation, yet still gives an accurate indication of
damaged areas along tooth tips and walls, as well as possible sub-surface damage.
The technique is called ELectromagnetic Core Imperfection Detection (EL CID). The
rights to the technology were acquired by Adwel International Ltd who have continued
extensive development of the product, and a range of EL CID equipment is now
manufactured and supplied by Adwel.
The versatility of the EL CID also provides other benefits such as:
?? automatic permanent test records.
?? means of performing simple local tests for pin pointing and monitoring repairs.
?? speed in setting up and testing large or small machines.
?? less subjective interpretation of results.
?? means of estimating likely power dissipation of fault circuit under operating
conditions.
?? no additional expensive equipment.
?? avoidance of additional damage caused by full ring flux testing while the core is
not cooled.
?? high sensitivity to detect even minor faults.
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Over recent years the electromagnetic technique for core scanning has won
international acceptance by industry and public utilities as a standard testing practice.
Experience however does indicate that success in using the EL CID depends on skilled
engineers understanding the principle of operation and how it is best used on their own
motors or generators. Thus they are recommended to read this Operating Handbook
carefully before commencing any test.
The technology of EL CID stator core testing requires that electromagnetic fields are
generated and radiated, although these will of course be very much less than with
conventional full ring flux testing. Frequencies generated are normally those
associated with power generation installations and signal amplitudes will tend to be
lower than those of the general environment. This background level is normally lower
in repair workshops, but can still be predominant.
Acquisition of fault signals necessitates the deliberate detection of low levels of
electromagnetic fields, and this could include signals produced by other equipment and
installations (eg overhead cranes etc). These spurious signals do not normally present
any problems with EL CID testing but it may in extreme circumstances be
advantageous to time the acquisition of test traces with inactivity of other signal
generating sources. The user should ensure that the test system installation is
compatible with other equipment in use during the EL CID test.
Page 10
V4.04
Core Faults
The stacked core of any ac generator or motor is made up of multiple laminations
typically 0.5mm thick insulated from each other but frequently shorted together at the
back edges by support bars. A simplified diagram of a typical stator core is shown in
Fig. 1.
This standard design method reduces eddy currents in a stator, thus avoiding
unnecessary power loss. However, the integrity of this approach depends very much on
the effectiveness of interlamination insulating materials. In order to keep core length
as short as possible (as well as magnetic density high) these insulation layers or
coatings must be very thin.
Stator Core
Alternating
Magnetic Flux
Conductor Bars
Stator Teeth
Building Bars
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2.2
EL CID Detection
The EL CID equipment tests a core for faults by exciting the core using a toroidal
winding to produce a ring flux similar to the conventional method (see Fig. 2 below),
but only to 4% of its normal working level of excitation. A sensing head is then passed
over the surface of the core to detect magnetically the presence of fault currents
themselves rather than the heating effect they produce. The power required is low
enough to be within the capacity of standard workshop outlets for quite large
machines. Only 2 to 3 kVA is required for an alternator of several 100MWs.
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V4.04
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PHASE element is relatively large and is present throughout the core whether or not a
fault exists. Current induced in a fault circuit flows predominantly at a phase angle of
90 from the excitation field and is detected as a QUADRATURE current.
2.3
Signal Processing
The Signal Processor separates the two parts of the signal by using a reference input
from the excitation (obtained by either placing a coil within the field or from the
excitation current) and a phase discriminator. The two parts of the signal can then be
used for display and test record purposes and for subsequent analysis. The Signal
Processor is calibrated to give a direct reading of the value of the fault current.
The processed signal from the sensing head for each adjacent pair of teeth is recorded
to give a series of traces. These show approximate position along the bore and
amplitude of any fault currents. Further measurement and location of the damage
across the tooth face and (if the conductor is not present) down the slot walls may be
carried out using a hand held flexible Chattock.
EL CID is a sensitive test technique that can detect minor damage which may never
affect the reliability of the generator. Sensitivity of this order means that judgements
will have to be made regarding repair. To aid judgement a practical m.p.d. threshold
corresponding to 100mA (using 4% of rated excitation) has been established from
working experience as a level at which faults should be investigated further. A
proportionally lower or higher threshold level should be used if the test is carried out at
a different excitation level.
V4.04
All remedial decisions largely depend on interpretation of the final results and the
practicable options available. Test engineers are recommended to study the more
detailed information on theory given in the appendices.
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V4.04
3.2
Inputs
The SPU accepts inputs from the Sense Head Chattock (SIGNAL) and also the
Reference Signal Transducer (REFERENCE) via front panel connectors. The
SPU uses these two signals (Y inputs) to determine the PHASE and QUAD
values of the detected current. The range select switch adjusts the SPU
sensitivity for the Y SIGNAL input and automatic gain control circuitry accepts
the full range of Y REFERENCE input levels.
The SPU also accepts signals from distance encoders providing the X Axis
distance information.
Input 1 should be used for the un-decoded 2-phase signals obtained directly
from a rotary encoder (eg. from the Sense Head Manual Trolley).
Input 2 should be used when the distance pulse information has been decoded
into a single pulse train plus polarity information (eg. - from the Robot Tractor
Control Unit).
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3.2.2
Outputs
Connection to a standard IBM compatible computer is made via the standard
RS232 9 way 'D' type connector. This connector provides both the test data
and the two way system control signals between the SPU internal
microprocessor and the external PC.
Analogue outputs may be obtained from 4 mm sockets for the PHASE and
QUAD Y values and also the X Axis (distance).
An X Axis pulsed output compatible with standard EL CID chart recorder
systems is also available from a front panel DIN connector.
3.2.3
Signal Calibration
Four momentary action push buttons provide means of enabling the SPU to
compensate for different Chattock Coil sensitivities and distance encoder
scaling. The buttons are recessed (the Y signal buttons more so) to prevent
accidental operation.
3.2.4
Y Axis (signal)
Y Axis calibration is normally carried out in conjunction with the EL CID
calibration unit (described in APPENDIX 5) which provides an accurate test
m.p.d. corresponding to a 1 ampere in-phase current. Depressing the CAL Y
button will cause the SPU to measure the prevailing input signal with respect to
the phase of the prevailing REFERENCE input and to scale this to indicate 1
Ampere at zero phase angle.
Depressing the RESET Y PHASE button will not affect the signal amplitude
calibration but will re-adjust the phase angle to indicate zero phase with respect
to the now current REFERENCE signal. This feature may be used where it is
advantageous to adjust the phase angle of the reference signal in the presence
of variations in excitation phase in parts of the stator core.
Note that both these operations take a number of seconds. After pushing the
button, there is an initial 5 sec delay to allow the (possibly single-handed)
operator to move from the EL CID to the Calibration unit to manually position
and secure the Chattock. There is then about a 7 second period whilst the
PHASE angle is adjusted (less for CAL Y) and fine tuned to match the
incoming reference, and finally a 5 sec period during which any error messages
are displayed on the EL CID LCD.
3.2.5
X Axis (distance)
The RESET ZERO button will cause the distance indication to be reset to zero.
This function may also be operated remotely from some Sense Head
transducers fitted with a Reset button by means of a RESET line connected via
the Sense Head socket Input 1.
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The CAL-X button causes the count recorded since the last reset to be
recalibrated to indicate 1 metre. If the CAL-X button is held depressed (or
alternatively re-depressed without resetting to zero) the distance calibration
will progressively be increased to a maximum of 9 metres in increments of one
metre, dependent upon the length or number of time(s) the CAL-X button is
depressed. This facility allows the X input of the SPU to be calibrated to the
characteristics of the particular distance transducer used.
This is achieved by initially operating the RESET ZERO button. Then the
operator subsequently traverses a known number of complete metres between 1
and 9 and stops. The correct calibration is then achieved by depressing the
CAL-X button until the above calibration distance used is indicated on the
front panel display.
3.2.6
Display
The DISPLAY MODE Selector switch provides options for the information on
the dot matrix display. Values displayed are up to four digits plus polarity with
the maximum value determined by display mode. The display modes are as
follows:
3.2.7
QUAD/Distance.
The QUAD value of the Y input SIGNAL level is displayed together with
distance travelled by the sense head. Maximum distance display is 9.999m.
3.2.8
QUAD/PHASE
Both QUAD and PHASE values of the Y input SIGNAL level are displayed.
3.2.9
CAL Value
The last calibrated value of the sensing head Chattock sensitivity now stored in
the SPU. This value is used to normalise current input signals before display
and transmission to outputs.
V4.04
3.4
3.5
V4.04
3.6
3.7
Excitation Winding
The system contains as standard an excitation system which is often more convenient
to use than separately obtained cabling, provided that the current rating and length are
adequate for the application. The current system is the Switched Excitation System,
which has its own handbook giving detailed instruction.
The standard excitation cable length is 10m and additional lengths may be added in
series. The cable contains six parallel conductors (rated approximately 20A per
conductor dependent upon ambient and cooling conditions) together with a further
trace winding for monitoring induced voltage. If the excitation voltage is low, then
windings may be switched in parallel to achieve 32A per turn for 2 or 3 turns.
The cable may be wound around the stator more than once giving multiples of six
parallel conductors if sufficient length is available. Allowance must be made for
multiple turns of the trace winding when monitoring induced voltage if using more
than one turn of the standard cable. An excitation connection Switch Control Box
terminates the ends of the cable to connect the parallel conductors in series and
provides a means of connection to the excitation source and trace voltage meter.
Earlier systems used thinner excitation cables of 7 conductors plus trace winding, rated
at ~8A. These were fixed at 7 turns per cable/turn, and were 6m long.
3.8
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(ii)
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General Preparations
4.1.1
Additional Equipment.
The requirements for the excitation winding, mains supply and optional variable
transformer are discussed in Section 4.2.
Ensure the availability of other equipment not supplied with the EL CID kit:
(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
(e)
4.1.2
The following inspections and tests of the EL CID equipment are best made before
going to site, so that any problems can be remedied more easily.
(a)
Check all the EL CID connectors, cables, etc. for any signs of faulty insulation
or exposed wires or connectors. This is important because up to 50V can be
induced along the bore by the current through the excitation winding and if the
insulation is damaged and electrical contact is made to the core, large currents
may flow which could damage the core or cause injury.
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V4.04
4.2
(b)
Check that the SPU and the Chattock are functioning correctly by using the
Calibration Unit.
(c)
Leave the SPU on charge for at least 12 hours so that the batteries are fully
charged for the test if the operation from line voltage is not convenient.
4.1.3
(a)
Ensure that the stator windings have been properly disconnected and earthed in
accordance with all applicable safety procedures.
(b)
Ensure that safe physical working conditions exist in the area of work.
(c)
Ensure that no metal objects have been left inside the bore since these could
cause arcing damage to the core when the excitation current is switched on.
(d)
(e)
Fix white adhesive tape around the bore at the working end, just before the
start of the laminations. If the manufacturer's slot numbering system is not
known, the slot at 12 o'clock is usually marked as number one. The other slots
are then numbered in a clockwise direction. (The method of numbering is of
course optional).
V4.04
the test machine. For optimum and consistent results it is important that the winding is
supported close to the centre of the bore along the full length of the stator, including
the end-winding. A separate trace winding is strapped along-side the excitation
winding for accurate measurement of the induced voltage. In situations where central
positioning of the winding is not practicable (eg. where a rotor is not fully removed)
the effects of the positioning of the excitation winding will need to be taken into
account when evaluating test results.
The alternating current flowing through the excitation winding induces a voltage along
the length of the core and it is this voltage which causes currents to flow through
damaged regions of the core. The standard excitation voltage for EL CID tests
(measured with the trace winding) is 4% of the rated volts.
It is found that fault currents flowing within a stator core are almost proportional to the
excitation voltage (see Fig. 5). Hence, if it is not possible or convenient to obtain 4%
of the rated voltage, values of between 2 and 10% can be used provided that the fault
currents measured by EL CID are scaled accordingly.
4.3
Vp-p
tp
and
... (1)
Hence the standard 4% excitation, measured with the trace winding, is given by:
VT = 0.04Vr.
Further information on the calculation of the excitation parameters is given in
APPENDIX 3.
Example Calculation.
Consider a 23kV, three phase, 660MW generator with 42 slots, ie. 14 slots per phase.
Each slot contains two conductor bars but these are connected in parallel.
Hence tp = 7 series turns per phase. Since Vpp = 23kV, Vr = 1031V and the standard
4% excitation is VT = 41.2V.
NB
The calculated value for VT for 50Hz two-pole generators of 200MW or greater at 4%
Page 24
V4.04
of rated voltage usually corresponds to around 5V/m length of core. The actual value
of 41.2V is therefore consistent because the stator core of the 660MW generator is
7.5m long. However V/m values for machines where the radial dimensions are not
similarly proportioned may be substantially different.
4.4
is the frequency.
is the length of the core in metres.
is the depth distance in metres from the base of the slots to the
back of the core.
is the mean rms flux density (Tesla).
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V4.04
Hence for measurements in metres the rated rms voltage per turn is given by:
Vr 5.65 f l d
... (2)
... (3)
... (3a)
The Ampre-turns (A-turns) required for the test depends on the initial magnetic
permeability of the stator iron. This is not a well-defined property since the small
signal incremental permeability is of little importance during normal machine
operation but it can vary significantly dependent upon the manner of the last deenergisation. Experience has shown however that to achieve 4% of rated voltage
requires of the order 2 to 15A-turns per metre circumference of core, measured at the
mean diameter of the main core.
Example Calculation
The 660MW generator has an outer diameter of 3m and a diameter at the base of the
slots of 2.2m, giving a mean diameter of 2.6m. Hence the mean circumference is 8.2m
and the A-turn requirement will probably be in the range 25 - 80 A/turns.
4.4.2
For a winding with NW turns the excitation current in an individual turn IWt is of course
given by:
IWt = A-Turns / NW
and the total excitation winding voltage, Vw by:VW = VT * NW
(The formula slightly underestimates the voltage requirement because the extra,
resistive, voltage drop in the cable is neglected).
The approximate total excitation VA requirement is simply:
VA = VW * IWt
(or VT * A-turns)
Example Calculation
For the 660MW generator mentioned above, VT = 41.2V and IW < 80A. Hence the
total power requirement is < 3.3kVA.
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The very low excitation power requirement is a major advantage of the EL CID test.
It is now straightforward to decide on the number of turns, Nw for the excitation
winding so as to match its current and voltage requirements to the mains supply.
Example Calculation
In our example generator, requiring VT = 41.2V, powered from a 240V supply, a six
turn winding would give almost the recommended 4% value. The current would be
<80/6. ie. < 13.3A. A 120V mains supply would require a three turn winding but the
current would be increased to a maximum of 27A.
To obtain exactly 4% of the rated voltage it is necessary to use a variable transformer.
However a sufficiently close value can often be obtained by matching the number of
winding turns to the voltage of the mains supply.
4.4.3
The long excitation cables supplied with the EL CID are usually long enough for large
motors and most generators. Before using these cables, check that the number of turns
and current rating are compatible with the requirements, as calculated in Section 4.4.2.
If the supplied excitation cables are insufficient or unsuitable, the test engineers will
need either to procure additional standard excitation cables or to make up their own
windings. This should only be done by an experienced electrical engineer, able to
design a safe installation, and to monitor and maintain that safety in use.
Excitation cable should be insulated (double or re-inforced) to the maximum supply
voltage, rated for at least the expected winding current (IWt), and long enough to wind
the required number (NW) of turns loosely around the stator casing and through the
centre of the bore. In addition, on large generators or in case of fault, the trace winding
could be energised with voltages exceeding 50V, and must therefore also be adequately
insulated.
The following instructions assume a single core cable; the use of standard multi-turn
cable will obviously reduce the number of cable turns required.
(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
Wind NW turns of excitation cable loosely around the stator and through the
bore.
Wind a single turn trace winding (which could have a lower current rating but
must be fully voltage rated) alongside the excitation winding
Tape all the turns together, including the trace winding.
Tension the winding at both ends using tie points so that it runs close to the
central axis of the machine for approximately one metre beyond each end of the
full length of the stator, including the end-windings
Page 27
V4.04
Connect a voltmeter to the trace winding and use a clip-on or other ammeter
to measure the current through the winding.
BEFORE ENERGISING THE WINDING, ENSURE
THAT THERE IS NO RISK OF INJURY DUE TO
EXPOSED LIVE PARTS, POOR OR DAMAGED
INSULATION ON WIRE OR CONNECTIONS, OR
RISK OF INSULATION DAMAGE DURING USE ON
SHARP EDGES ETC.
ALSO ENSURE THE CORE IRON IS EARTHED AT ONE POINT
(ONLY) FOR SAFETY.
(f)
4.5
Connect the excitation winding to the mains supply either directly or via a
suitably rated variable transformer. Before switching on the current, double
check that there are no foreign metallic objects in the bore. Switch on the
mains supply and check and adjust the current through the excitation winding
and voltage across the trace winding until both are satisfactory and record their
values. Switch off the supply until the EL CID test equipment has been set up.
V4.04
Although it is theoretically possible to carry out limited scans on small machines using
a hand-held (unmounted) Chattock coil, in practice it is necessary to use a sensing head
which clamps the Chattock at the required span distance and provides a means of
guiding the assembly along the core.
This is normally accomplished by the use of the adjustable, magnetically attached
Sense Head Trolley. Other various sized Sensing Heads fitted with adjustable
mechanical guides have been supplied in the past. Alternatively tests may be carried
out using the self-steering Robotic Inspection Vehicle (RIV). The use of this vehicle is
covered separately with its own handbook.
Connect the Manual Sense Head Trolley to the Digital EL CID by the required cable,
which signals the distance run and any operation of the button. Note that the connector
is a tight fit between the trolley halves, and they have to be slightly separated to allow
the connector to pass between them.
The Manual Sense Head Trolley should be fitted with the smallest span Chattock,
having regard to the pitch of the stator teeth to be tested, that does not put any strain on
the Chattock. The assembled Trolley is shown in Fig. 10, with the various adjustments
marked.
The Chattock ends should be slid into the nylon sprung mounts at the front of the
Trolley, and the small nylon clamp screws at the side done up just tight enough to
retain the Chattock (note the Chattock cable is clamped inside the handle, so these
screws do not need to secure the chattock against cable pulls). Take care to not
unscrew them fully in case they get lost (a few spares are included in current Digital
EL CID Kits).
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V4.04
Certain early large sensing heads incorporate a compensation coil which picks up a
signal in anti-phase to the excitation PHASE signal from the Chattock in order to
minimise the in-Phase signal produced by the excitation current. A potentiometer
control allows the indicated signal to be "nulled" in the PHASE mode. This
requirement is superseded in the standard analogue EL CID by a front panel mounted
potentiometer, and in the Digital EL CID by the Phase Reset.
4.6
X Axis information for a Global EL CID test is normally obtained either from a
distance measuring wheel driving an encoder on the Sense Head (eg Magnetic Trolley,
Robot Tractor) which interfaces electrically directly with the EL CID equipment via a
signal cable or from an X Axis Unit fitted with a distance measuring pull-cord.
Relevant connections and operation are covered in other sections.
4.6.2
This pick-up coil is used to provide the EL CID phase reference signal. This clamp
type coil should be attached around to the feed to the excitation winding, as shown in
Fig. 7. The coil uses voltage pick-up (Rogowski) methods to monitor the excitation
current.
The Switched Excitation System Excitation Control Box has a short external cable
loop that carries one core of the supply current. This enables the excitation current to
be directly monitored. If this is not used, then the Reference Coil should be fastened
around the excitation winding. This must be around conductors with just one direction
of current flow, like a clip-on ammeter. It should not be around the excitation supply
where opposing the currents in line and neutral cancel each other out.
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V4.04
4.6.3
The SPU
For Local tests it may be advantageous to position the SPU in the stator bore and to
operate on its internal batteries. The case of the SPU is non-conductive to prevent
shorts to the laminations and consequent flow of potentially damaging currents when
the core excitation is energised.
4.6.4
The Plotter
A plotter or chart recorder may be used for test record purposes either to augment
digital data recording on a PC or stand-alone where PC equipment is not available.
X-Y plotters are normally driven from the EL CID system analogue signal outputs for
both axes whereas a chart recorder may be driven in the X axis by system digital pulses
connected to the recorder external timebase input. The plotter/recorder is most
conveniently situated adjacent to the SPU.
Scaling will be dependent upon the range used on both the EL CID equipment and the
plotter. A trial test trace is usually needed to verify the scaling and calibration.
4.7
The X Axis calibration of the Digital EL CID should be done at each test, in order that
any irregularities in measuring the core (due to surface roughness and ventilation slots
etc) are take account of. It should be done either if the Sense Head Trolley is used, or
if the Remote Inspection Vehicle (RIV) is used, and repeated if the user changes
between the two during the test.
The procedure is given in Section 3.2.5.
4.7.2
Both the Chattock and EL CID should be calibrated together. This is normally done
routinely at base, and uses the Calibration Unit and procedure described in APPENDIX
5, but may be performed on site.
Since the EL CID can only carry one calibration value for the one Chattock, if the
Chattock is changed in use then the calibration should be repeated if the new one has
substantially different recorded calibration than the previous one.
The PHASE should be calibrated in the core at one position only, ONCE per test
before the test. The only exception to this is on Hydro-generators with core splits or
substantial magnetic interference due to rotor still present etc. where resetting the
Phase may be needed as a secondary operation on later tests on the splits. This is
explained
in
more
detail
in
APPENDIX
12
CONSIDERATIONS WHEN TESTING HYDROGENERATORS.
Page 31
V4.04
The best method to calibrate PHASE is to pick an area of core that is felt to be defect
free, then Reset the Phase of the EL CID there. This establishes the Quad signal near
zero for the good areas, rather than having a permanent high value that you then have
to look for a change on. Use the following method.
4.7.3
Phase RESET
Having initially calibrated Phase in the Calibration Unit (or the EL CID is known to be
roughly set correct already, eg from a recent previous test), perform a scan along a
good looking slot. Choose one that has no visual damage, and when scanned shows no
significant change in level, thus identifying a good section of core. Hold/leave the
chattock firmly in place, well into the core, and press RESET PHASE. After
completion (17 secs approx), the quad signal should be seen as about zero. Then
perform the full EL CID test as normal.
The reason for the perceived extended time taken, is that the first 5 secs are a wait to
allow a single operator a short time to return to the Chattock to hold it back in position.
The unit after adjustment also displays the result for 5 secs to allow a user to see the
results, regardless of the display selected.
Despite this, global variations in the iron will often still lead to some areas of the core
having a different phase, and thus a significant standing positive or negative quad
signal. The ELAN Remove Quad DC Component facility allows this to be
eliminated, so that the 100mA investigative criteria is evident. It is unwise however to
rely on this to remove large DC components (esp >100mA) that should have been
annulled before the test by the above procedure.
Page 32
V4.04
5. TEST PROCEDURES
A Global test is used to inspect the whole stator whereas a Local test is confined to a
few known damaged areas. A Global test should be followed by a Local test if core
damage is found.
For both tests it is good practice to record details of the generator and test conditions
on a proforma record sheet such as in APPENDIX 2. This form of test record usually
also forms part of the test records when electronically stored using a PC, but the test
sheet is still of use to prepare the machine input data required.
(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
Double check that no foreign metallic object has been left in the bore.
Switch on the excitation winding and use a clip-on or other type of ammeter to
measure the current. Check that the current does not exceed the rating of the
mains supply, any variable transformer or the cable.
If a variable transformer is being used, adjust its output to produce the required
voltage on the trace winding. If the winding is connected directly to the supply
check that the trace winding voltage is sufficiently close to the required value.
Record the Number of Winding Turns, Excitation Current and Single Turn
Trace Voltage.
Before starting either a Global or Local test (Sections 5.2 and 5.3) it is important to
follow the procedures of Section 5.1. These ensure that the whole system has been set
up correctly and is working properly.
5.1
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Trial Recordings
Trial recordings are made to check that all is working properly, that the traces are
repeatable and the chart sensitivities are suitable.
Choose a convenient slot (eg. at 9 o'clock) and scan the sensing head forward and
backward along the same slot.
Since the forward and backward trial recordings are on the same slot, the two traces
should merge. Separation of the two trial recordings along the X axis can be caused by
accidental movement of the X Axis encoder.
Check that the length of the trace corresponds to the length scanned and that suitable
scaling has been chosen.
Y-axis separation may be caused by Sensing Head misalignment or by scanning too
rapidly.
5.2.2
Manual Scanning
Manual scanning of the Sensing head is prone to human error because it is tedious and
tiring. It is important to ensure that:
a) The Sensing Head is traversed smoothly and slowly along the slots, taking at least
10 seconds for each 1m scan.
b) The Chattock coil ends remain in contact with the tips of the teeth throughout the
scan.
c) The axial and circumferential alignment of the sensing head is maintained
throughout the scans.
5.2.3
An overall sensitivity of 100mA full scale is well suited to most tests made at 4% of
rated voltage since traces are generally flat to within 50mA. It is also appropriate
because 100mA is the threshold above which further investigation should be
considered. If a signal above 100mA is recorded in ELAN V3, then that trace autoPage 34
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Final Recording
Once the trial traces are satisfactory the final recordings may be started on the first slot
at the Measurement End.
a) Scan and record the first slot beginning at the Measurement End to the end of the
slot, (or to the end of the first core section to be scanned if it is intended to divide
the core length into two or more sections).
b) Scan and record the second slot from the end of the slot (or first core section) back
to beginning of the Measurement End.
c) If the test is being made with each slot alternately forwards and backwards
(Alternate Single Scan mode), then do not reverse the Sense Head or Trolley
between each scan. As shown in Fig. 11, just finish at the end of the core from one
slot, then reverse back into the core on the next slot, with the Sense Head still
oriented the same.
d) Continue scanning and recording the slots sequentially around the stator until all
the slots have been measured. Repeat for all scan sections if appropriate.
End of slot N
Start of Slot
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Normally the whole of the bore should be tested before detailed examination of any
suspect areas, otherwise too much attention can be given to what may prove to be
relatively insignificant damage. Where damage is found, the sites should be marked
with adhesive tape or crayon, for closer examination with the Local EL CID Core Test.
5.3
The Step Iron at the end of the core, due to its inevitable stepped surface, is not easy to
test by wheeled vehicles such as the Sense Head Trolley or RIV. However is vital that
this and any other such difficult areas are tested as thoroughly as the main body of the
core.
The simplest method is to just manually scan them with a hand-held Chattock, whilst
an assistant monitors the EL CID readings to note if any untoward QUAD readings
occur. Manual records should be taken of the peak readings found.
Alternately the Timebase mode of the ELAN V3 software may be used to make
recordings of these manually scanned areas. The distance accuracy is of course only as
good as the ability of the operator to move at the specified speed. However this still
allows a permanent recording to be made and reasonably approximate comparisons
between slots. If the steps are sufficiently shallow, then the Trolley may still be used
over them, which would allow more precise computer records to be made.
Note that the Chattock reading is not greatly reduced if the Chattock ends lift slightly
off the core as the steps are traversed.
5.3.2
Pin-pointing Damage
If a Local test is made directly after a Global test, all the preparations will have been
made already. Otherwise, follow the instructions given in Section 4 and its subsections and in Sections 5 and 5.1
a) Only the SPU and the Chattock need to be taken inside the bore. The SPU will not
be affected by the electric field and can be powered from the INTERNAL supply.
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It is also possible to measure the component of fault current in-phase with the
excitation current with a Mini Chattock. This extra information may provide better
estimation of severity of faults than is possible from the Quadrature component alone.
Measurement of the In-Phase component is more difficult than the quadrature
component because of the In-Phase m.p.d. due to the excitation current.
However, the m.p.d. across the limbs of the Chattock is small and fairly constant over
fault-free tooth surfaces. Proceed as follows:
a) Switch the SPU to indicate PHASE readings.
b) Press the two limbs of the Mini Chattock Potentiometer together and measure the
In-Phase m.p.d. between the limbs in the vicinity of the fault.
c) Move the compressed Chattock Potentiometer so that it is centred over the damage
and measures the peak m.p.d.
d) Subtract the readings obtained from (b) from (c) to obtain the in-Phase component
of the fault current.
5.3.4
If the procedures in sections 5.3.2 and 5.3.4 fail to detect a fault in a region which gave
a response with the standard sensing head, then the fault may be on a side of one of the
teeth, or on the base of the slot or deeper still into the core. If the conductor bars have
been removed it may be possible on a large stator to probe down the sides of the teeth
with the Mini Chattock Potentiometer to detect and measure faults. If the conductor
bars are in position, however, the severity of the fault must be judged from the
response of a standard sensing head alone.
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Distribution Media
The software is distributed on a CD ROM. It consists of the operating software and
demo test files that may be read by the user to help with familiarisation of the Stator
Test and Analysis operation.
6.2
Suitable PC
The software is intended for use on IBM compatible PCs operating Windows 98 or
ME, or Windows 2000 or XP. It is not suitable for Macintosh computers. On Windows
95 it may not be reliable in Stator Test mode.
The minimum and recommended specification PC is given in the Specifications in
APPENDIX -part 6.
On systems with enhanced user security (eg Windows 2000 and XP) installation may
not be possible, or the software may not be accessible to all users unless the user is
logged in with Administrator privileges. Note also that data may be stored in user areas
that are only accessible to the logged in user. In this case consult your IT administrator
for advice.
6.3
6.4
To Install on a PC
If you have a version of ELAN V3.x (beta version or final) already installed, this
MUST first be uninstalled by use of the Windows software (Start >Settings >Control
Panel >Add/Remove Programs and select ELAN to remove). Previous versions V2.x
do not need to be uninstalled.
Insert the CD in the drive. Using Windows Explorer run (double click) setup.exe on the
CD drive or other place that you have copied the installation software to. Alternately
on the Windows screen, select Start >Run and type in D:\setup , changing D if this is
not the name of your CD drive.
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The software will install automatically. You are invited to accept or reject the License
Agreement. If you are not able to accept this, installation will cease without changing
anything on your PC. You will next be asked where the software is to install the
program files as per Fig. 12:
6.6
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6.7
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Introduction
The ELAN (ELCID Analysis) software program for EL CID provides a comprehensive
tool to capture during test, display, analyse and print slot information acquired by the
Digital EL CID test equipment. It has also been designed to provide full support for
recording the test results from the Digital EL CID test equipment, aiding and
automating various functions, plus comprehensive facilities for identifying potential
faults in tested stators and for easing the process of producing reports about those
faults.
In operates one of in two modes: ELAN Stator Test and ELAN Stator Analysis, with
the Test mode entered after starting in the Analysis mode. As a result, even though it
would be logical to cover Testing first, the Analysis is described initially, and the test
results are displayed during test using the methods of the Analysis mode.
Data is recorded in an open format XML structure, which allows independent
inspection of the data, and potential for transfer to other compatible systems.
7.2
A wide range of features, including many updated over ELAN V2 are available.
?? WINDOWS 98/ME/2000/XP operating environment.
?? Integrated test and analysis functions within ELAN.
?? Display of test information for both the machine and test method for recorded tests
before opening file and during analysis and test.
?? Display of Quad or Phase values, with optional dc (separate for quad and phase)
and zero removal.
?? Integrated test results open XML format for test data, with import conversion for
old formats, allows visibility and export capability.
?? Primary multiple trace display mode with ancillary selection of display options,
print, notes, export, and help functions
?? Single slot Display Mode for detailed inspection with zoom and cursor, plus
simultaneous Quad/Phase display.
?? Dual slot comparison display mode.
?? Addition of notes to slot data allows annotation of analysis
?? Normalisation to 4% or any other excitation level.
?? Selection of data taken from Exciter or Turbine end.
?? Ability to select or deselect slots for display, allows choice of best alternate slot
results (a,b,c etc).
?? User selection of display and printout trace colours.
?? Machine and test parameters can be reviewed at any time.
?? Ability to re-use any previous test set-up for new test, and to continue any previous
test left unfinished.
?? Improved excitation calculation user interaction
?? Remote operation allowing one-man operation, upgradable in the field
?? BIG slot test display panel for distant viewing of key parameters (esp Qaud value
and slot no)
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??
??
??
??
??
??
??
??
??
7.3
Previous tests on same slot kept may be kept for comparison (up to 26 off)
Key commands available via icons on screen and hot keys
Timebase mode to allow simple manual scans to be recorded
Support for offset double chattocks on tractor to ensure alternate slot scans align,
and ability to set to scan any sub-part of the core
Data Export to industry standard spreadsheets via Microsoft Excel Workbook
Options panel to allow setup of Comm port and key user variables
Audible warnings of actions (capable of being amplified etc)
User choice of trace and printout colours
Windows type HELP facility for the individual functions which may be accessed
during operation.
7.4
V4.04
possible to similarly display and analyse the Phase values, by selecting Phase in
Display >Traces. In this case all the functions that were available for Quad can be used
for Phase.
In many cases, the data was recorded with not all 2mm position values recorded. In this
case the default setting of Suppress Zeros is recommended as it fills in the zeros with
the previous recorded value (avoiding sparodic spikes to zero). The Quad (or Phase)
values may also be normalised to either a normal 4% excitation as default, or to any
other user defined excitation desired.
It is often the case that the EL CID was not absolutely Phase Reset reset at the test
start. This can be compensated by using the Remove Quad/Phase DC Component,
which defaults on for Quad and off for Phase. This offsets all values in the display so
that the mean value (ignoring the zeros) is zero, on the assumption that any fault signal
will be small by comparison with the main bulk of the core.
In order to inspect a slot trace in great detail, a double click on a trace will open up
another window for the Single Trace Interaction. This allows a cursor to investigate
detail values, and the user able to set local scales to use the auto-scale. A zoom facility
(click and drag from top-left to bottom-right of desired zoom area) allows local
inspection, and the reverse expands to full slot display again.
Display >Select Slots allows the user to select or deselect slots from the display list, if
it desired to only show for comparison purposes particular slots (esp to remove
unwanted alternate a-z slots). This display also gives a convenient review of the
maximum values of the Quad or Phase (dependant on value selected for display), the
length of slot recorded and any user note.
To provide a quick overview of the maximum Quad (or Phase) values, the View
>Peaks display allows selection of a limited choice of variables, then displays in
tabular format all the selected slots. The value is compared with a threshold value and
only those values that exceed it have a value shown. It is possible to select the whole
machine, in which case a scroll bar appears to accommodate any extra slots. View
>Notes provides access to the notes for any trace, which may be clicked on to select a
trace, then the note typed in, and saved. Note that if the file is shown as WRITE
PROTECTED then no changes can be made.
Many aspects of the traces can be printed. The main printout function allows (after
selection of the correct parameters in Print >Setup), printing of the traces as shown on
the screen on a succession of pages via File >Print, with optional printing of the
machine and test parameters in a Header Page. In addition, the Notes may be printed
from the Notes display, and the current Screen traces may also be printed via File
>Print Screen.
7.5
Main Menu
Main Menu, which is used to access the system functions via five sub menus, is shown
in Fig. 13. These are: File, Options, EL CID Test and HELP. Display and View
are greyed out initially, as they are not available until a test file is loaded for analysis.
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File Menu
In order to analyse any test results, the file recording of those results must first be
opened. The File command opens up a sub menu as shown in Fig. 14.
File Open
To begin an analysis session the user must first open a data file. ELAN version 3.0 uses
data files in XML format, in which all data for one machine test is stored as a single
file. Opening a file is accomplished by selecting File > Open from the main application
menu. On selection the user will be presented with the following dialog box in Fig. 15
from which he must navigate to the directory in which the data file is located.
If the file structure is not correct, in particular if the XML records have been directly
edited by a user and not by recording them with ELAN, and the format is not correct,
then ELAN may report an error reading the file and abort the load command.
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Security
When the file is opened, even for Analysis only, then it may still be written to by the
software, since the user may change the Notes, and select or de-select traces for
display. This data is stored within the file, and it is thus possible that a malfunction or
crash could change other data items.
If it is important that the records are not corrupted, then the user should ensure that a
backup is kept of the file. He/she should also either make a copy of the file for ad-hoc
viewing, or set its properties on the Windows system as read-only which will prevent
any user changes. This is indicated on the display when the file is opened by a label of
WRITE PROTECTED after the filename on the lower pane.
This label is not shown, however, if the file is protected by a remote facility such as the
Write-Protect tab on a floppy disc or write protection on a remote file server. In this
case the fact that the file is protected is only seen when any write is attempted.
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In case that the file is set as read only, and the user tries to make a change, then the
software will offer to save the changed data to a new file via the Save As function (see
section 8.6.2).
7.6.2
File Close
On selecting Close the application will remove from memory the information related to
the currently selected series of slots and clear the slot display. Any changes to analysis
values such as notes will be saved. If the file properties are read only, the user will be
prompted to save the file to another location. If this is ignored, any changes will be
lost.
7.6.3
This option in Fig. 16 allows the user to select and set-up the system printer for all
subsequent printing within the application.
File Print
The File Print option allows the user to select the options that are required for a
specific graphical printout of slot traces as shown in Fig. 17. It shares most functions
with the Display Select Traces menu. A printout consists of one or more pages of
graphical traces each with a footer describing the settings that were selected for the
print. A maximum of 30 slot traces can be printed on a page, however it is
recommended that less are printed to improve the ability to see detail.
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Units - ELCID records information in a metric format with data being stored every
2mm for a slot. The user may select to have the information displayed in either metric
(metres) or imperial (inches) units.
Direction - Slot traces may either have been recorded by traversal in the forward or
reverse direction from the machine end that was being analysed. The user may choose
to select traces in either direction or in both directions.
If the Forward (+ Reverse) option is selected, then both traces can be printed
simultaneously.
Slots Per Page to Print - This is the number of slots that are to be printed on each
page. If it is set to zero then no slot pages are printed, but the header page is still
printed if selected.
Start Distance From Machine End - This is the distance from the selected machine
end from which printing of slot data will start.
Finish Distance From Machine End - This is the distance from the selected machine
end at which printing of slot data will stop.
Scale Traces to xxx Volts - If this option is selected the data in the slot traces will be
scaled to the level entered by the user. If the edit box is empty, or contains an invalid
value ELAN will prompt the user to enter a valid value. See also Scale Traces to 4%
Excitation.
Scale Traces to 4% Excitation - If this option is selected the data in the slot traces
will be scaled to a level that would be consistent with a 4% excitation level.
This uses the Machine Parameter recorded for Measured Single Turn Voltage
(MSTV) and scales the traces proportionately down if MSTV is higher or
proportionately up if MSTV is lower than that desired by the calculation shown on the
pane and shown in the grey box alongside. This scaling will affect the Phase if
displayed, as well as Quad values, so in case of Phase display, this is usually best
deselected.
Remove Quad DC Component - If this option is selected the Quad data in the slot
traces will be filtered such that the DC value of the slot data is removed.
Remove Phase DC Component - If this option is selected the Phase data in the slot
traces will be filtered such that the DC value of the slot data is removed.
Suppress Zeros from Trace - ELCID places zero values into slot trace data under a
number of error conditions. The ELAN software is able to compensate for these
erroneous values by suppressing them from traces. The selection of this option causes
the data to be corrected through the removal of all zero values.
Max Scale - This is the maximum value that will routinely be used for the display of
data on a trace graph. The maximum value can be overridden by an automatically
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generated maximum value for each trace if the AUTOSCALE trace option is selected.
Off scale traces will be shown at the maximum display value.
7.6.4.1
If Print Header Page is selected, it causes a single page of header data to be printed
before printing all required traces. This gives all the data shown in the View
Machine Parameters and Test Parameters boxes. If it desired to only print this
header data, then tick this option and select 0 traces to print in the Print Dialogue
box.
7.6.4.2
The footer on each page consists of a simple textual representation of the settings
and source of data. The footer has the following format:
C:\ELCID\DATA\TESTNAME Date DC Removed 4% Normalised Quad
Turbine Zeros Suppressed Metres
C:\ELCID\DATA\TESTNAME - This is the path and file-name of the header file
for the test results being printed.
Date - The date on which the tests were carried out.
DC Removed - The slot traces printed have had their DC component removed
before being plotted.
4% Normalised - The slot traces have been normalised to a 4% excitation level.
Quad - The slot traces are displaying the quad values recorded by ELCID.
Turbine - The slot traces displayed are those measured from the turbine end of the
machine being tested.
Zeros Suppressed - Where ELCID has inserted zeros into the trace data (usually
due to too fast operation) these have been masked in the printed slot traces.
Metres - The unit of measurement against which the slot traces are printed is
metres.
7.6.4.3
Printout Colours
Pressing one of the "Change colour" button allows the user to select a new colour
for the printing of those traces or define a custom colour. These may be different to
those used for display.
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Forward
Forward Over-range
Reverse Over-range
Reverse
This function prints the currently displayed traces to the default printer.
7.6.6
File Exit
This function closes the file and the ELAN program. The user is prompted to save to
another file any changes made to the file if it was opened when read-only.
7.7
Main Display
The main onscreen display consists of a maximum of 20 trace slots displayed across
the screen. This allows comparison of adjacent traces to allow analysis as described in
Section 9. The traces are coloured providing meaning about the displayed trace. The
colours given below are the default as installed, the user may change them. See below
for changing the colours.
Red - the trace slot corresponds to a series of measurements that were captured
originally in a Forward direction.
Green - the trace slot corresponds to a series of measurements that were captured
originally in a Reverse direction.
Yellow - the trace slot corresponds to a series of measurements that were originally
captured in the Forward direction but at least one of the measurements was greater than
maximum scale set for the display (over-range).
Blue - the trace slot corresponds to a series of measurements that were originally
captured in the reverse direction but at least one of the measurements was greater than
maximum scale set for the display (over-range).
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Note that if either of the Forward or Reverse Traces is over-range, then both traces
change to the over-range colour for that slot. Also, even if the Display Select Traces
is set to Autoscale Over-range Traces, the colours still change to indicate if the trace
exceeds the value set in the Max Scale box.
Display >Traces gives access to controls to either set the scale factor to anywhere from
1 to 40,000mA full scale, or to just auto-range those traces that exceed the scale
threshold. The latter is convenient for a quick overview, but for more detailed analysis,
then the same scale for all adjacent traces being analysed is preferred.
7.8
Display Menu
The Display menu shown in Fig. 19 below, allows the selection of two dialogue boxes
that control which traces are displayed, and their options.
The Display Select Traces function in Fig. 20 allows the user to select the options for
the onscreen display of slot traces. It shares most functions with the File Print Menu.
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The options that can be selected from this dialogue have the following meanings:
Start Slot - This is the first slot to be displayed. The slot number must not be more
than the maximum number of slots for the machine and a minimum of slot 1. The
default value for this slot will always be the first slot that is currently displayed. The
up/down arrows next to the slot allow the user to quickly increment/decrement the slot
number, or the number may be directly entered.
Slot Count - This is the number of slots to be displayed. The slot count must not be
more than the maximum number of slots for the machine and a minimum of 1. The
default value for this slot will always be the slot count that was last printed or analysed
through the View Slot Peaks and Notes option. The up/down arrows next to the slot
number allow the user to quickly increment/decrement the number, or the number may
be directly entered.
Slot Count defaults at startup to 20 slots unless the PCs display adaptor is SVGA
(800*600), in which case it defaults to 15.
Machine End - This is the end from which a slot was scanned. ELCID files represent
slots referenced from either the Exciter or Turbine end of the machine. Slot data may
be only displayed from one end or the other, so if there is data recorded from both, then
they must be displayed seperately.
Note that the display defaults at start at the end that the test file states was the end from
which the traces were recorded. However if this was not in fact the end used, then no
traces will be displayed. This is simply corrected by selection of the other
Exciter/Turbine End.
Data - The user may select either the phase or the quad of the ELCID captured data.
Units - ELCID records information in a metric format with data being stored every
2mm for a slot. The user may select to have the information represented in either
metric (metres) or imperial (inches) units of length measurement.
Direction - Slot traces may have been recorded by traversal in the forward or reverse
direction from the machine end that was being analysed. The user may choose to
display traces tested in either direction or in both directions.
Start Distance From Machine End - This is the distance from the selected machine
end from which display of slots will commence.
Finish Distance From Machine End - This is the distance from the selected machine
end at which display of slots will complete. Note that for both Start and Finish ends, an
overrun band of 200mm (8inchs) is allowed for traces that didnt quite end correctly,
and which may be displayed.
Scale Traces to xxx Volts - If this option is selected the data in the slot traces will be
scaled to the level entered by the user. If the edit box is empty, or contains an invalid
value the application shall prompt the user to enter a valid value.
Scale Traces to 4% Excitation - If this option is selected the data in the slot traces
will be scaled to a level that would be consistent with a 4% excitation level, as per the
calculation and result displayed.
Remove Quad DC Component - If this option is selected the Quad data in the slot
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traces will be offset such that the DC value of the whole slot Quad data is set to zero.
Remove Phase DC Component - If this option is selected the Phase data in the slot
traces will be offset such that the DC value of the whole slot Phase data is set to zero.
Suppress Zeros from Trace - ELCID places zero values into slot trace data under a
number of error conditions. The ELAN software is able to compensate for these
erroneous values by suppressing them from traces. The selection of this option causes
these zero data values to be masked by copying the previous values.
Max Scale - This is the maximum value that will routinely be used for the display of
data on a trace graph. The maximum value can be overridden by an automatically
generated maximum value for each trace if the AUTOSCALE trace option is selected.
Off-scale traces will be shown at the maximum display value.
Colours - Pressing one of the "Change colour" button allows the user to select a new
colour for the display of the traces, using the dialogue box in Fig. 21 below. This
allows selection of a new basic colour, or a custom colour.
Forward
Forward Over-range
Reverse Over-range
Reverse
The Display - Select Traces option allows the user to select the set of traces to be
displayed. The Display - Select Slots dialog box in Fig. 22 then selects which traces
from this subset of traces is to be displayed.
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This option will move the display to the next sequence of slot traces from the current
display. The currently displayed end slot will become the new start slot and the new
end slot will be set to X slots further on where X is the current number of displayed
slots less one.
A keyboard shortcut to this option is available through the Page Down key.
7.8.4
This option will move the display to the previous sequence of slot traces from the
current display. The currently displayed start slot will become the new end slot and the
new start slot will be set to X slots earlier where X is the current number of displayed
slots less one.
A keyboard shortcut to this option is available through the Page Up key.
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7.9
View Menu
The View menu of ELAN is used to display an analysis of slot peaks, the recorded
notes and also the Machine Parameters and Test Parameters:
The main menu consists of 4 sub-menus shown in Fig. 23:
View Peaks
This option will display a selection screen that allows the user to select slots, and
options to be applied to slots, to enable identification of peaks in the quad or phase
values for the machine.
The initial selection dialogue screen in Fig. 24 allows the analysis to be selectively
applied to all or a sub set of all machine slots. Once the selection has been made, the
user is presented with an interactive display through which he can identify slots for
further investigation. The user is also able to select the relevant slot to make and record
observations (notes) against the analysed slots.
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The selection parameters are similar to that in Section 7.8.1 for Display Traces. The
variations are given below.
Slot Count - This is the number of slots to be selected, and may be any value up to the
whole machine.
Machine End - This is the end from which a slot was scanned. ELCID files represent
slots referenced from either the Exciter or Turbine end of the machine.
Data - The user may select either the phase or the quad of the ELCID captured data for
peaks display.
Scale Traces to xxx Volts This is locked to the same as that selected in Display
Traces.
Scale Traces to 4% Excitation - This is locked to the same as that selected in Display
Traces.
Suppress Zeros from Trace This is locked to the same as that selected in Display
Traces.
Max Scale This is set in the Peaks display box, and disabled here.
Autoscale Over-Range This has no effect, the peak value is displayed regardless
Peak Analysis Display
The resultant Peak Analysis display is shown in Fig. 25 below. The display identifies
slot traces whose values anywhere exceed a peak threshold (positive or negative). The
top number in each box is the slot number, the lower one is the max Quad or Phase
value. Note that the numbering may not be contiguous, as the slots shown are only
those selected in Display >Select Slots, including any alternate traces selected. The
right-hand scroll bar allows viewing slots that are off-screen.
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Where a slot trace exists but its peak value is below the set threshold, an asterisk is
displayed. Where the slot trace does not exist a * is displayed. If a slot trace exists and
its peak value is greater than the set threshold then the value of the maximum is
displayed.
Peak Value Threshold Allows the user to set a new threshold (the default is
100mA), and then click the Recalculate button to perform the analysis again.
Cancel - Closes the dialogue and return to the main display.
Notes - Enters the Notes Display in which the notes for any slot can be viewed and
modified as required. Also a double click on any of the displayed Slot Cells enters the
notes display in which the notes for that slot can be viewed and modified as required.
A status bar along the bottom of the display displays the values chosen when originally
selecting the slot range for analysis.
7.9.2
View Notes
This option will display the Notes dialog (can also be entered via the Peak Analysis
dialog), allowing a user to read the notes stored for the whole machine and to add or
change the note for any slot. All the slots recorded are shown, regardless of their
(de)selection in Select slots as seen in Fig. 26 below.
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Each slot for the machine can have an 80 character comment that is stored with the
data for the machine. The user is able to view all slot comments at the same time
through the main display. To add or amend a note click on the slot, which will select
the slot note for editing in the top line and display the Slot Test Ref Phase Angle. The
entered note must be recorded by selecting Add Note or Return after entry, else the
change is not retained.
If the file is set as read-only, then changes to notes are NOT saved to the original file,
but the user is offered the option of saving the whole test file to a new filename before
closing.
7.9.3
On first opening a data file, the Machine Parameters information in Fig. 27 is presented
for confirmation that this is the correct data. The user may also inspect the Machine
Parameters information by selecting View >Machine Parameters. The full Machine
Parameters display is then presented. To remove the Machine Parameters display from
the screen click the Cancel or OK buttons.
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be opened in ELAN Stator Test, or left open in Stator Analysis and EL CID Test
started. The values may then be edited and saved. Note that changing test records
should be done with great circumspection!
7.9.4
The user may inspect the Test Parameters information in Fig. 28 by selecting View
>Test Parameters. The full Test Parameters display is then presented. To remove the
Test Parameters display from the screen click the Cancel or OK buttons. The Machine
Parameters display can also be selected from the Test Parameters display by clicking
on the "Machine Parameters" tab at the top of the display.
This data cannot be changed. If it is desired to amend any records, then the file should
be opened in ELAN Stator Test, or left open in Stator Analysis and EL CID Test
started. The values may then be edited and saved. Note that changing test records
should be done with great circumspection!
7.10
Options
This function allows the user to set up the ELAN software to use standard defaults for
their normal use. Clicking on the Options Button give the display in Fig. 29. The user
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main screen or the Afar screen. On the main screen a ? character will be shown in the
top icon row, which will turn red if any error occurs. Clicking on it or pressing the ?
key will then display a pane showing the current active error(s).
7.11
EL CID Test
This command starts the EL CID test dialogue. When this item is selected the main
screen will change from the ELAN "Stator Analysis" screen to the "EL CID Stator
Test" screen. This mode allows a user to connect the PC to the Digital EL CID
equipment to capture slot data during stator testing. Operation is covered in Section 8.
7.12
Help
This command gives access to About and Help. About is a panel that gives
information about the issue of the software, Adwel and its contact information. Help
Topics gives access to a full Help system about the software, as shown in Fig. 30.
Individual topics and information about operation may be searched and printed out.
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Mouse Left Double Click - Enters the Single Trace interaction for the slot over which
the click occurs.
CTRL + O - Displays the "File Open" dialog. This is the same as selecting File >Open
ALT - activates the main menu - the user can then use the arrow keys to navigate the
menu items. Pressing ALT + any of the underlined letters on the main menu drops that
menu down (e.g. ALT+F drops down the file menu).
ALT+F4 - exits the program. This is the same as clicking on the top right hand button
of the main window.
F1 - Displays this help file at the appropriate place.
Mouse Right Click over a Trace gives a menu as shown in Fig. 31.
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determined through the Save As type drop down menu on the Excel Save As panel.
After selecting Save, the Excel application is closed.
It is assumed that most users will only wish to transfer a few slots for analysis. In case
that it is desired to transfer a whole machine, then this must be done 20 slots at a time,
and the data cut-and-pasted together in Excel afterwards, from the several spreadsheets
recorded.
7.15
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The user can control the single trace display in the following ways.
Cursor On/Cursor Off - The user can turn on a cursor by clicking the Cursor On
button. The cursor can be moved across all displayed traces allowing the data
underlying the displayed information to be read in the Values box. The cursor
follows the position of the mouse. To turn the cursor off, click Cursor Off.
Redraw - This button redraws the trace when any scale parameter is changed. It is
triggered automatically if the Remove Quad/Phase DC boxes are changed.
Auto/Man Scaling - The user can turn off the default automatic scale settings and
choose two vertical scales that are controlled by the Quad Min/Max and Phase
Min/Max settings. After changing any manual scales the user must click the Redraw
button for the display to be updated.
Load - This button allows a dual slot display, where test traces from a second slot on
the same machine or other test may be loaded onto the same display. Clicking the Load
button and specifying the data source loads the extra slot. Alternate second traces may
be loaded by just selecting them, the new data replaces the old. To delete the second
trace, Cancel the whole Single Trace Interaction, and select the same slot again.
The second set of traces may be from the same test or different test file. If they are
from a different test file, take careful note of the source, as the source is not displayed.
In addition the second file must be compatible with the first in terms of having the
same length core and excitation, as both results are normalised the same.
Cancel - This button cancels the Single Trace Interaction, and returns to normal trace
display.
Print - The user may print the contents of the current graph display (either zoomed or
normal scale) by selecting the print button, choosing a printer and page orientation
(landscape is recommended) and then selecting OK to continue with the print.
Zoom - With the cursor off the user can zoom into the displayed data by holding the
left mouse button over a region of interest and dragging a rectangle on screen down
and to the right. On completing the rectangle the screen will zoom to the dragged
region. By clicking Redraw the screen may then be re-scaled to the maximum and
minimum signal current values held in the box at the left hand of the screen. To return
the display and data to the original settings hold the left mouse button and drag to the
left and up.
Panning - By holding the right mouse button and dragging when the cursor is off, the
graphs displayed are panned across the display in the direction of the mouse
movement.
DC Removal - Two check boxes are provided for the removal of the DC component
from the QUAD and PHASE traces independently. Clicking on either of these controls
automatically updates the display. Note that where Normalisation to 4% excitation or
user defined normalisation has been selected for the initial display, secondary slots
loaded from a different test will be scaled by the same normalisation factor.
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Change Colour - The colour of the displayed (and printed) traces can be selected by
pressing one of the Change Colour buttons at the bottom of the display. The same
colours are used for both display and printing, and are described in Section 7.6.4.3.
A toolbar at the bottom of the display contains details of the data that is displayed in
the single trace interaction display. These display details are the same as the details for
the main trace display.
7.16
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8.2
Menu functions
The Main Window of EL CID Stator Test is used to access all the other EL CID Stator
Test functions. The main menu consists of 7 sub-menus:
?? File
?? Display
?? View
?? Unit
?? Options
?? Test
?? Help
?? Toolbar
8.2.2
Toolbar
A Toolbar of icons in Fig. 33 below the main menu provides the user with singleclick access to the main functions:
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PgDn -
CTRL + O -
Displays the "File Open" dialog. This is the same as selecting File
>Open
CTRL + S -
Displays the "File Save" dialog. This is the same as selecting File
>Save
ALT -
activates the main menu - the user can then use the arrow keys to
navigate the menu items. Pressing ALT + any of the underlined letters
on the main menu drops that menu down (e.g. ALT+F drops down the
file menu).
ALT+F4 -
exits the program. This is the same as clicking on the top right hand
button of the main window.
F1 -
b or B -
d or D -
e or E -
r or R -
s or S -
x or X -
?-
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8.4
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(named recovery.dec) after every slot. This may be reloaded in case of any computer
failure during test to allow testing to continue without loss of data.
8.5
Test Operation
8.5.1
Connection to EL CID
The connection to the Digital EL CID should be made with the RS232 cable supplied.
This may be the earlier part no 6/110/1/021, however to allow one-person operation of
the ELAN/EL CID system the Trolley must be connected to the Digital EL CID via the
Trolley Remote Control Interface (part no 6/110/1/022) which also connects to the EL
CID RS232 output to the PC.
The EL CID signals at 19200baud, 1 stop bit with no parity. It must have RTS
connected to CTS at the EL CID to operate. These parameters are automatically set by
ELAN and the supplied cables.
8.5.2
Test Sequencing
When testing a stator, the sequence that the slots are tested in must be in the sequence
defined in the Test Parameters window. The choice will depend on the access to the
machine and test results desired.
The slots numbers to be scanned are set in the First Test Slot and Last Test Slot in
Test Parameters. The sequence will always count from the first to the last. If the Slot
Number Direction is set to be Increasing the slot number will increase from the first
until the last is reached. If the Slot Number Direction is set to be Decreasing the slot
number will decrease from the first until the last is reached. Note that this allows slots
to be tested in an increasing direction from say 36 to 4 on a 42 slot machine (ie through
42 to 1 and onwards). Once the last slot is reached and fully tested, the test is
automatically Finished. If the Slot Number Direction is set to be Random the slot
number will not change after each slot, but the operator will be automatically presented
with the Goto dialogue box to select the nest slot desired.
The originating end of the machine from which measurements are taken is
conventionally set as either Exciter End or Turbine End (or the slip-ring and shaft
ends for a motor). The results are categorised by this parameter, and separate test
results for each direction may be stored in the same test file. However they cannot be
viewed together.
The choices for scanning are
Single Scan -The slot is scanned from the originating end (exciter/turbine) forward (F)
for each slot. The operator is expected to return the Trolley to the machine start end of
each slot after the scan.
Alternate Single Scan -The slot is scanned from the originating end (exciter/turbine)
forward (F) for the first slot, then in reverse (B) for the next slot and so on in a zig-zag
pattern around the core. The operator is expected to transfer the Trolley to the adjacent
slot after the scan.
Double Scan - The slot is scanned from the originating end (exciter/turbine) forward
(F) for each slot, then in reverse (B) for the same slot. The operator is expected to
transfer the Trolley to the adjacent slot after each second scan.
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The Trolley, and other remote mechanisms that measure the distance travelled, may be
used in a conventional or reverse mode for the test. To allow the correction of distance
counting that is found to be reversed, the Position Counting may be set to Forward or
Reverse.
Note that if Forward is set, with the Trolley Encoder at the front and moved forward,
the counting is forward, however the distance recorded on the EL CID display is
negative. This is normal.
Start Position sets the position in the bore that the scan is expected to start, and is the
position where the results will be recorded from in the data file. The end position will
be wherever the operator Ended the scan.
Return Position sets the position in the bore that a reverse (B) scan is expected to start
for both Alternate and Double scans, and is the position where the results will be
recorded from in the data file. If the value is left blank, the Reverse (B) traces will be
recorded from the same position as the previous Forward Start scan ended.
For a system where Double Scans are being taken using double chattocks, such as on a
Remote Inspection Vehicle (RIV), then the forward chattock usually issued for the
forward scan, and the rear one for the reverse scan. However since the RIV is not
allowed to leave the bore, the Start and Return positions may be set such that the
relevant chattock scans the appropriate part of the core.
To test a machine once all the above parameters have been correctly specified, the user
selects Test >Start (or hot-key s), and the slot data is recorded by selecting Test >Begin
and stopped by selecting Test >End (or hot-key e).
8.5.3
Timebase Use
When testing a stator, in case that there is no ability to use any mechanised form of
distance encoding, it is still possible to capture EL CID data in a form that can be
graphed by the use of the Timebase mode
Position Counting may be set to Forward Timebase or Reverse Timebase. This then is
used with the Timebase value to set an automatic distance counter that increments (in
Forward) or decrements (in Reverse) the position down the bore at the set rate in mm
or inches per second. By this means it is possible to record the results of a simple
manual scan with a chattock if the chattock is moved at about the same speed as the
Timebase is set. The result is a (normally) short trace for the duration between Begin
Slot and End Slot actions, starting from the start position set in the Start Position
parameter.
8.5.4
Step-Iron Testing
One important application for Timebase mode is to scan the set-iron ends of a large
machine, where the steps preclude the use of the Trolley encoder.
Various options exist to record the data in a suitable format to study later. It is not
possible to just add the traces onto the slot traces for the body of the machine, and
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thus need to be a separate set for separate analysis. They can either be recorded in a
separate test file, or recorded as originating from the other end (eg turbine instead of
exciter).
In either case, to record the near end slots (ie step irons at the end of the machine
identified at the test end, eg Exciter), the preferred way is to set to Single scan, Reverse
Timebase and Start Position = length of step iron. Then select Start and immediately
select Goto, and select again first slot number and B for reverse scans (this will cause
all subsequent scans to be done in Reverse). Then when each Begin Slot is actioned,
the timebase will start counting out of the bore (from Start Position back to zero),
whilst the operator can now scan the step-iron with a hand-held chattock. Once each
scan is complete, immediately select End Slot to finish the scan. The speed of scan is a
user choice, but a value around 10mm/sec is usually best.
To scan the step irons at the other end, set to Single scan, Forward Timebase and Start
Position = bore length less length of step iron. Then select Start (but do not select Goto
etc as before, as you wish all subsequent scans to be done in normal Forward). Then
when each Begin Slot is started, the timebase will start counting out of the bore (from
Start Position out to end of bore the other end), whilst the operator can now scan the
step-iron with a hand-held chattock. Once each scan is complete, immediately select
End Slot to finish the scan.
If an assistant is not available to select Begin/End, a lone operator can position the
Trolley conveniently even without a chattock, and use the one-man operation feature of
the Remote Trolley button (see below) to command Begin/End remotely.
The resultant traces will be seen as a set of short forward and reverse traces for each
end of the machine. Whilst the distance alignment may not be very accurate due to the
mismatch of operator speed to computer speed, the existence of faults will still be
apparent by excessive Quad values.
8.5.5
To allow one-person operation of the ELAN/EL CID system the application can be
controlled using the button located on the sensor head trolley. This is enabled via the
Remote Operation checkbox on the Test Parameters pane of the unit data. In addition
the Trolley must be connected to the Digital EL CID via the Trolley Remote Control
Interface (part no 6/110/1/022 which also connects to the PC to the EL CID).
To use the remote interface, the user sets up the machine and test parameters as
normal, enabling Remote Operation in Test Parameters, then selects Test >Start. The
trolley button now has the following functionality:
?? Pressing for at least 0.5 seconds (a firm push, not a quick tap) and less than 3
seconds selects Test >Begin if a test recording is not underway, or Test >End if a
test recording is underway.
?? Pressing the button for more than 3 seconds causes a Discard of the current slot (or
last slot if a slot test was not in progress) and then selects a Redo test of that slot.
The operator should then reposition the Trolley on the slot to be redone, and
initiate the test with the remote button again
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The LED on the Trolley Remote Control Interface is lit while ELAN is recording data,
and extinguishes when not. (Note that pushing the button temporarily extinguishes the
LED at all times). It is recommended that the Afar screen is displayed and the PC
angled so that a single operator may see and check progress from a distance.
Do not operate this remote control whilst an operator is also changing the test progress
(Goto, Redo or Discard) from the PC, as undesirable interactions can occur.
8.5.6
Audio Signals
After starting the test via Test >Start (hot-key s), the slot data recording is initiated by
selecting Test >Begin (hot-key b). This continuously samples data from the EL CID
and displays the real time capture of that data in the selected trace in the main window,
indicated by a white background. Once the user has completed each scan and is
satisfied with the test data they select Test >End (hot-key e). The user can stop the
testing by selecting Test >Finish (hot-key f). This ceases communication with EL CID
in preparation for exiting the application. Note that the unit data can still be edited at
this point and testing can be restarted.
The values of Phase and Quad are recorded for each 2mm of core. If the user moves the
Trolley slowly enough so that more than one value is received from the EL CID, or
repeatedly moves the trolley back and forth over the same part of the stator, the
software averages the last 16 valid values received.
On starting recoding a slot, all values for that slot are preset to zero. If the trolley is
moved too fast so that no value is received for that 2mm position, it remains recorded
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as zero. When in Stator Test mode, ELAN sets the display parameters so that all zero
values are shown (Stator Analysis allows them to be suppressed, achieved by copying
adjacent values). As a result they will be seen as zero on the PC screen. As long as the
Trolley is not being scanned so fast that several successive values are being missed,
then the occasional missed value will not imply dangerous absence of data, as the
chattock core diameter is >5mm and thus any even a very local core fault will show on
several successive 2mm positions. For optimum results the Trolley or RIV should be
driven slow enough to ensure all values are captured.
The Display is normally set for 4 traces to be displayed at the same time, one (usually
blank one) ahead of the current one, the current one, and 2 after the current one. DC
removal and Zeros suppression are preset off so that the trace display shows the raw
data, though it is still scaled to 4% excitation by default. This means that the trace may
have a different value than the read data if the excitation is substantially different to
4%. If this is a problem, the scaling may be turned off or set to some other value.
The Display is set to Autoscale for each trace, starting at the scale set in the Display
>Select Traces pane. This means that if a value is received over the set scale, the trace
automatically shrinks to the new scale to ensure that the full trace is displayed within
the slot on the screen. This can cause surprise to the user if this is not expected, but is
normal. It will not rescale up afterwards, unless the trace is started again.
The Traces are plotted such that the plot only starts at the first non-zero value from
either end, thus showing only the area of the core actually scanned.
Alternate (ie multiple) traces can be made of each slot and direction, to enable the user
to record multiple scans of the same slot, perhaps due to difficulty in scanning, or to
record different methods/operators used, or even to record the change after local
rectification. If there already exists a slot trace in the same direction, then selecting
Redo will cause another slot to start to be recorded with the same slot number and
direction, but with the suffix A, B etc. Alternately if a slot is to be re-recorded and
the previous data overwritten, selecting Goto and the appropriate slot causes the
previous data to be erased (but recoverable via Discard) and the new scan substituted.
If the user is unhappy with the data as it is being recorded they can select Test >End
Slot, then Test >Discard. This deletes the last recorded slot data, recovers any previous
data if it was being over-recorded, and moves the testing onto the next slot in the
sequence.
8.5.8
Error Reports
Errors are reported as they occur unless the Option is set to Suppress Error Reports.
They are normally reported on the main trace View Slots display and the Afar display.
If the error is not expected to Clear on recovery (ie autoclear if the error condition is
removed) then the user must acknowledge the error (even if it is now corrected) by
pressing X or clicking on the ! button. This is to ensure that these serious errors are
actually noticed and corrections made before the test continues.
They have the following meanings:
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Error Report
Comms Failure
Position overrun
Missed values
8.6
Meaning
EL CID has stopped responding.
ELAN will continue to retry until recovered.
Clears on recovery.
Signal from Reference coil is too small.
Clears on recovery unless Recording data, in which case the
user must clear the error.
Signal from Reference coil is too large (over-range).
Clears on recovery unless Recording data, in which case the
user must clear the error.
Signal from Chattock coil is too large (over-range).
Clears on recovery unless Recording data, in which case the
user must clear the error.
Signal from Chattock coil is too small.
Clears on recovery unless Recording data, in which case the
user must clear the error.
The incoming position has gone beyond either end of the range
of position values allowed, plus the 200mm extensions.
Clears on recovery.
Value not received for each 2mm position (usually due to too
fast operation).
Clears on next valid value.
File Menu
The menu items below are those extra items not otherwise described in the Stator
Analysis Section 7.6
8.6.1
File Save
If the user has a data file currently open, this function will save the data in memory into
that file without prompting for a filename. If the user does not have a file open this
function will act as if the user had selected File >Save As.
8.6.2
File Save as
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This selection returns the user to the ELAN Stator Analysis mode of the application. If
any data is currently in memory and hasn't been saved the application will prompt the
user to save the data.
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8.7
Display Menu
The menu items below are those extra items not otherwise described in the Stator
Analysis Section 7.8.
Display Select Traces is very similar to that described in Section 7.8.1, but with the
following changes as shown in Fig. 35
8.8
View Menu
This menu allows the user to select the particular test view to display. Slots is the
normal display, and allows the user to display the currently selected test slot and the
specified adjacent slots. Progress allows the user to view the progress of the testing,
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which slots have data, which have alternate traces available etc. Afar allows the user to
view the current test key data at a distance.
8.8.1
View Slots
This selection forces ELAN to put the currently selected test slot on the screen,
indicated by a white background. The screen defaults to displaying four slots
(changeable via the Display >Select Traces menu), with the selected slot being the
second trace from bottom when using Increasing or Random slot numbering, or second
from top when using Decreasing slot numbering.
The standard Test Slots screen looks as shown in Fig. 36 below.
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8.8.2
View Progress
This selection displays the progress dialog in to the user. The display in Fig. 37 shows
the user a grid of all possible traces for the current machine. There is one row for each
slot on the machine and one column for each of the possible 27 traces (1 primary trace
and up to 26 alternative traces).
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Notes button presents the user with the notes display, allowing them to edit or add a
note for any recorded trace.
Right Mouse button clicking on a cell pops up the menu in Fig. 38, allowing the user
to add or edit the note for that slot/alternate trace, delete an alternate trace (a-z) or
change an alternate trace to be the primary trace for display. The Make Prime Slot
function swaps all the trace data for that slot between the Prime (non a-z) slot and the
selected alternate (a-z) slot.
View Afar
This selection in Fig. 39is intended to be used to allow a user to see the real-time data
values whilst being remote from the computer, especially during one-man operation.
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?? The next slot to be tested, plus direction (blank if the current slot is the last slot in
sequence to be tested).
?? The current error message (if enabled).
?? The Quad reading in Milliamps from EL CID. If this value goes outside the range
currently selected in Display-Select Traces, the Quad value will have an amber
background, otherwise it will have a white background.
?? The Phase reading in Amps from EL CID.
While this display is being shown the user can still use the keyboard shortcuts and the
menu on the main EL CID Stator Test window. This display is dismissed by pressing
ESC or the X in the top right corner.
8.9
Unit Menu
This display allows the user to enter the Machine (Fig. 40) and Test Parameters (Fig.
42). The user has the choice to either create completely new machine and test
parameters by selecting New Unit, to Copy the parameters from a saved test file, or to
Edit parameters already entered.
Once the parameters are entered they are saved to the output file if one has been
selected, and to the recovery.dec file.
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8.9.1
New Unit
This selection displays the Unit Data dialog with the Machine Parameters pane empty,
apart from the date (taken from the PC clock), and the frequency (taken from the
Options dialog). The Test parameters pane has default values presented which can be
changed by the user.
8.9.2
Copy Unit
This selection opens the File Open dialog and allows the user to select a file from
which to copy the Unit data. Once selected, the Unit data is displayed and can be edited
to suit the new test. Note even the Test date is copied, so if it is desired to have the date
set to the current (or any other date) this must be manually edited.
This allows rapid entry of set-up data for a retest of a previous test, but does not copy
any of the slot file data. If it is desired to copy a previous test file to just retest some
slots, then the file should be Opened and Saved as a new file before editing the Unit
data and retesting.
Note that the originating file is not kept open and the filename in the Test Parameters is
blanked. The first attempt to save the file after opening prompts the user to provide a
new filename to prevent the user overwriting the original file.
8.9.3
Edit Unit
This selection displays the Unit Data dialog with the Machine and Test Parameters
panes filled with the current parameters information. If no data has been previously
entered this display will be the same as the New Unit display.
8.10
Test Menu
This menu allows the user to select the required testing function.
The availability of the Test Menu items depends on the current test phase. When the
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Test menu is pulled down for the first time after starting EL CID test, only Start, Goto
and Redo are enabled. At this time, the user is still able to edit the Unit data, change
the slot view and open the Progress display.
The functions are summarised below.
Start - allows the user to start a machine test using the current Machine and Test
Parameters.
Finish - allows the user to finish the previously started machine test.
Redo - allows the user to retest a previously tested slot without overwriting any
existing data.
Goto - allows the user to jump to any particular slot to test it. This overwrites any
existing data for that slot.
Discard - allows the user to delete the last slot data recorded from EL CID and revert
to the previously stored data if it exists, else it is deleted. Testing continues at the next
slot in the test sequence.
Begin Slot - allows the user to record slot data into a trace as it is received from EL
CID. This data appears in real time on the slot display in the selected trace (indicated
by a white background).
End Slot - allows the user to finish recording slot data, and saves the slot data recorded
after Begin.
The test process goes through a number of different states, in which certain functions
are allowed/disallowed, as per the following table:
State
Initial
Test_Ready
Test_Started
Recording_data
Functions allowed
All except:
Start/ Finish/ Begin/ End/
Redo/ Goto/ Discard
Slot graphs blanked
As Initial plus display of
slot graphs as per data in
test file,
and Test Start
Begin Slot/ Discard/ Goto/
Finish/ Save/ Save as/
Close/ Exit/ Display~/
View~
End Slot
How it is entered
From ELAN via EL CID Test,
and Close.
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the serial port selected in the Options dialog. The real-time Quad and Phase values are
displayed on the main window, and also in the Afar view window, access to which is
only enabled after Start. If any error conditions occur, these will be reported on the
main window and Afar view, unless Suppress Error Reports has been checked in the
Options dialog.
8.10.2 Test Finish
Selecting this menu item stops the test i.e. communication with EL CID ceases and
Test >Start is required to restart testing. This selection disables Test >Begin, Goto and
Redo, and enables Start, and the Unit, File and Display menus.
It also resets the test sequencing, so that if a test is started again, the slot counting
restarts from the Start Slot selected.
8.10.3 Test Redo
Selecting this item causes the dialogue window in Fig. 43 to pop up, allowing the user
to select a slot for re-testing. If slot data already exists for that slot then an alternate slot
trace is created, with a suffix of A to Z i.e. each slot can have up to 26 alternate traces
(provided the total number of traces for a machine does not exceed 1000). If all 26
alternates exist, then alternate Z is overwritten.
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ensures that at all times the full range of values received are shown without disturbance
to neighbouring traces.
After selecting Begin slot, the only available Test options are End slot.
8.10.7 Test End Slot
This menu item allows the user to end the current slot test, store the data in memory
(and the temporary recovery.dec file) and automatically moves the selected slot on to
the next slot/direction in the test sequence. If the current slot is the last slot to be tested,
Test >Finish occurs automatically.
If Random was selected for Slot number Counting, then the Goto dialog is
automatically presented after each Test >End
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8.11
File Handling
8.11.1 File Formats
The file format for storage of the data is in XML format, where all parameters are
labelled with meaningful start (eg <Date>) and end (eg </Date>) labels.
If the value is null or missing, a single label with the slash at the end is used (eg
<RotationSpeed />). A partial sample of a file is shown below.
<?xml version="1.0" encoding="ISO-8859-1" ?>
<TestData xmlns="http://www.adwel.com">
<MachineParameters>
<Date>22 Jun 1999</Date>
<Station>ANO1</Station>
<UnitNumber>1</UnitNumber>
<Manufacturer>ANO</Manufacturer>
<Power>15600000.000000</Power>
<PowerMeasure>MW</PowerMeasure>
<Voltage>11000.000000</Voltage>
<VoltageMeasure>kV</VoltageMeasure>
<LengthOfCore>1.290000</LengthOfCore>
<NoOfSlots>108</NoOfSlots>
<RotationSpeed />
<InstallationYear />
<Comments>DIGITAL CHECK</Comments>
<ExcitationTurns>5</ExcitationTurns>
<ExcitationCurrent>21.900000</ExcitationCurrent>
<MeasuredSingleTurnVoltage>3.350000</MeasuredSingleTurnV
oltage>
<RecommendedSingleTurnVoltage />
<ConductorsPerSlot />
<Tp>30</Tp>
<MachineType />
<Phasing>3 phase</Phasing>
<CoreSplitLocations />
</MachineParameters>
<TestParameters>
<FirstTestSlot>1</FirstTestSlot>
<LastTestSlot>108</LastTestSlot>
<Timebase />
<SlotNumberDirection />
<Scanning />
<PositionCounting />
<StartPosition>0.000000</StartPosition>
<ReturnPosition>1.290000</ReturnPosition>
<RemoteOperation>Disabled</RemoteOperation>
<StartEnd>Exciter</StartEnd>
<Frequency />
</TestParameters>
<SlotData slot="001">
<Notes />
<Display>yes</Display>
<ForwardExciter>
<Range>4A</Range>
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V4.04
<SpuPhaseData>1841</SpuPhaseData>
<SpuCalData>0</SpuCalData>
<Quad>0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0,
0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0,
0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0,
0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0,
0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0,
0, 0, 152, 152, 151, 150, 150, 149, 148, 147, 146,
145, 144, 144, 143, 140, 141, 140, 139, 139, 138,
137, 137, 136, 135, 134, 133, 132, 133, 131, 131,
130, 128, 129, 129, 129, 128, 128, 126, 126, 127,
127, 127, 127, 126, 125, 125, 124, 124, 124, 122,
0, 123, 122, 0, 120, 118, 0, 119, 118, 0, 117, 116,
0, 116, 116, 115, 114, 112, 0, 112, 112, 110, 109,
41, 40, 40, 43, 45, 40, 40,</Quad>
<Phase>0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0,
0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0,
0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0,
0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0,
0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0,
0, 0, 2043, 2040, 2040, 2038, 2036, 2033, 2032,
2029, 2026, 2022, 2019, 2015, 2011, 2007, 2006,
2004, 2002, 1999, 1997, 1994, 1992, 1990, 1988,
1986, 1984, 1981, 1979, 1977, 1975, 1973, 1973,
1977, 1974, 1974, 1971, 1964, 1957, 1959, 1961,
1961, 1962, 1960, 1959, , 1973, 1973, 1977, 1974,
1974, 1971, 1964, 1957, 1959, 1961, 1961, , 1973,
1973, </Phase>
and so on for each slot. If there is no data recorded for a slot, then the element tags (eg
<Phase>) for that slot are still present.
The file may be viewed in any Web Browser such as Internet Explorer V5 onwards. If
essential, it is possible to edit the file using normal text editing tools, as long as the
syntax of an existing file is absolutely respected (if it is not, strange things can
happen!). The user should also be aware of the danger of generating data that did in
fact not occur in test and could thus be misleading to others!
8.11.2 File Conversion
The file format used by earlier versions of software supporting Digital EL CID was a
simple text file for the Header data (eg test.hdr) which described the machine and
test, plus binary files for each slot tested (eg test.012) where the file extension was the
slot number. These files are converted into the new XML format before reading into
ELAN V3 by a utility that is automatically called on attempting to read them. The
original files are not affected.
For the file conversion, the following rules are applied for conversion to new XML
data from the original header data :
Date
Station
Manufacturer
PowerMeasure
= Date
= Station
= Manufacturer
= MW
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Power
= Rated Power MW
Voltage
= Rated Voltage kV
VoltageMeasure
= kV
LengthOfCore
= Length of core m
NoOfSlots
= Number of slots
RotationSpeed
= null
InstallationYear
= null
Comments
= Comments
CoreSplitLocations = null
ExcitationTurns
= null
ExcitationCurrent
= Excitation Current A
MeasuredSingleTurnVoltage = Single Turn Voltage V
RecommendedSingleTurnVoltage = null
ConductorsPerSlot = null
Tp
= 'Tp' (Turns Per Phase in Series),
MachineType
= null
Phasing
= 3 phase
UnitNumber
= Unit Number
FirstTestSlot
=1
LastTestSlot
= no of slots
TimeBase
= null
StartPosition
=0
ReturnPosition
= Tractor scan length
StartEnd
= null
Scanning/PositionCounting/SlotNoDirection = null
RemoteOperation
= disabled
Frequency
= null
8.11.3 File Compression
The file size for a larger machine can easily exceed the capacity of a floppy disc, which
remains the most usual form of data back up for portable machines. However most
common forms of data file compression will compress the *.dec file format by a large
degree, often to a lesser size than the previous ELAN V2 format took.
To assist users, a copy of a common compression utility (such as WinZip) is copied
with the distribution of ELAN V3 so that users may zip the *.dec file to a size that
can be fitted on a Floppy Disc and/or emailed to others. If the user chooses to use this,
then they must respect all the licensing requirements of the owner of that software
8.11.4 Crash Recovery
In case of a computer failure/loss of power/crash, all data is saved at the end of each
slot scan to a temporary disaster recovery file named recovery.dec contained in a
specific subdirectory of the installation user data directory. This location is dependant
on the operating system, and is located at:
Windows 98/ME
C:\My Documents\Elan\TempData\
Windows 2000/XP C:\Documents and Settings\username\
My Documents\Elan\TempData\
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9.2
The diameter of the Chattock core (approx 5-6mm) may be as large as the axial
extent of a damaged area, and so the average m.p.d. measured across the
diameter is much less than the peak current at the centre of the fault.
(b)
The flux associated with a fault of limited axial extent can propagate axially as
well as circumferentially in the conductor slots and teeth. The peak and the
m.p.d. developed across the teeth in the same plane as the fault is
correspondingly reduced.
However these effects also cause the fault trace to be stretched axially and the area
under the fault trace still provides an indication of fault severity.
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9.3
For fault (A) the potential differences between the tip of tooth 13 and the
side of tooth 14 facing 15 are the same as that between the opposite side of
tooth 14 and tooth 15. Therefore identical positive responses are measured
between 13-14 and teeth 14-15.
(b)
With the fault at (B) just below the tooth corner so that it is not quite
spanned by the Chattock between teeth 13 and 14, the response has a
negative polarity. This signal results from the rapid reduction of potential
between teeth 14 and 13.
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(c)
For fault (C), the response is positive and is restricted to the traverse
between 14 and 15. The fact that the response amplitude is over half that
from an equivalent fault at a tooth tip shows the high sensitivity of the EL
CID to sub-surface damage compared to the thermal test. It is also
apparent that faults lying within the span of the Chattock give positive
responses whereas those not encompassed by the two limbs give negative
responses due to the reverse in magnetic potential gradient.
Since examination of the responses measured between teeth can help to identify the
position of the damage on the tip or side of the tooth, the following conclusions can be
drawn, assuming the phase of the reference is set up to give positive QUAD output for
surface damage inside the span of the Chattock coil as above:
(a)
(b)
(c)
A positive response confined to a single slot indicates damage near the base of
the slot or damage close to the bottom of the tooth. Damage in these positions
does not give a response on the adjacent slot.
Detailed interpretation of traces from the standard sensing head is not always
straightforward. In practice there may be several damaged areas on the same or
adjacent teeth in the same axial position, so that their responses are superimposed
further confusing the interpretation. Having ascertained the approximate position and
severity of any damaged areas from the examination of the recorded traces, the exact
position and fault m.p.d. amplitude must be measured using the mini Chattock.
Because of the small span of the Chattock used for the local test, the measurements of
m.p.d. give a more accurate indication of the peak fault current value. However this
procedure cannot be used for sub-surface damage, ie. below the top surface of the
tooth, unless the conductor bars have been removed.
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APPENDICES
Page 95
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APPENDIX 1
PRINCIPLES AND THEORY OF EL CID TESTING
1.
(1)
If the current is flowing along an iron surface, as in Fig. 46, the equation can be
rewritten:
I = ?air H.dl + ?iron H.dl
(2)
For fault current paths, where the field produced by the current flowing along the iron
surface dominates,
Hiron = Hair/? r where ? r is the relative magnetic permeability of the iron. Hence:
I = ?air H
1+ 1
?r
dl
= ?air H.dl
(3)
At the low magnetic fields used in the EL CID test ? ? 2,000 and so the line integral of
the magnetic field in air is an accurate measure of the current flowing along the
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2.
surface.
USING A CHATTOCK SENSOR TO MEASURE FAULT CURRENTS
Line integrals of alternating magnetic fields in air are easily measured with a Chattock
Potentiometer. This consists of a thin solenoid with a double layer of fine wire
uniformly wound on a flexible former, typically 6mm in diameter. Its rms output
voltage is given by:
v = ? o w n A ? H.dl
(4)
where the line integral is along the coil between its two ends. A and n are the cross
sectional area and number of turns per metre length of the winding respectively and w
is the angular frequency of the rms field, H. The output is independent of the length of
the coil and of the path taken by it.
Hence when the two ends are placed on an iron surface to bridge a current flowing
along it, as in Fig. 46, the output voltage is proportional to the current, ie. to the
magnetic potential difference (m.p.d.) between its ends.
3.
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where RF,LF, and lF are the resistance, inductance and length of the fault circuit
respectively, lC is the length of the core and VW is the rms voltage induced in a single
turn winding around the core. This equation shows that if the fault current is low, (RF
>> wLF), then it is almost in phase quadrature with the excitation current and therefore
readily measured.
Fig. 47 shows the phase relationship of the fault voltage and current vectors relative to
the excitation flux.
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4.
Page 99
V4.04
APPENDIX 2
EL CID TEST DATA RECORD
TEST SITE:OPERATOR(S): DATE: DETAILS OF MACHINE
IDENTIFICATION NUMBER OF MACHINE : MANUFACTURER : RATED POWER : LENGTH OF LAMINATED CORE :INNER BORE DIAMETER : NUMBER OF TEETH : CONDUCTORS PER SLOT : VALUE OF TP :COMMENTS (history, known damage, etc) : DETAILS OF TEST
NUMBER OF EXCITATION TURNS : TOTAL EXCITATION VOLTAGE
:EXCITATION CURRENT : SINGLE TURN TRACE VOLTAGE : CALCULATED SINGLE TURN TRACE VOLTAGE FOR 4% EXCITATION : SPU SENSITIVITY RANGE : COMMENTS : -
Page 100
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APPENDIX 3
EXCITATION OF STATOR CORE FOR EL CID TESTING
CALCULATION OF REQUIRED TEST EXCITATION VOLTAGE AND
ESTIMATION OF EXCITATION VA AND POWER LOSSES AT TEST LEVELS
1.
SYMBOLS USED
V
Vp-p
k
tp
At
Ds
Ph
Pe
Pc
dl
2.
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V4.04
3.
The reactive VA is the dominant factor in the core excitation requirement and the
smaller loss components contribute only vectorially to the overall value. In most
instances it will therefore be adequate to calculate this value and "round up" to cover
the additional Ph Pe and Pc loss components, although methods of estimating these loss
values are also shown in the following paragraphs.
A.
B.
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NB:
An additional allowance must be made for other parts of the machine frame etc.
unavoidably included in the excitation loop.
C.
D.
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APPENDIX 4
CONTENTS LIST STANDARD DIGITAL EL CID KIT
Item
Description
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
6/100/1/001
6/200/1/001
6/300/1/001
24
25
26
27
28
29
Page 104
6/203/1/010
6/201/1/002
6/108/1/017
6/108/1/018
6/108/1/019
20068
20069
20070
6/302/1/003
6/109/1/020
6/301/1/002
6/304/1/005
6/110/1/021
6/112/1/201
6/112/1/202
6/112/1/001
99/303/0010
99/303/0011
V4.04
APPENDIX 5
CALIBRATION UNIT AND SYSTEM CALIBRATION
The Calibration Unit provides a standard 100mA calibration signal through 10 turns of a coil
across a test channel, giving a total of 1.0 Ampere Turn signal between the two slots in the test
channel, and an in-phase phase reference signal. It is used for signal amplitude and phase
calibration of the test Chattock coil.
NB.
The Calibration Unit signal frequency is preset internally by DIL switches to that of the
local supply. If it is desired to change this, instructions are given at the end of this
Appendix.
1.
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Connect the Reference Transducer Coil via the Reference Termination Box to the SPU
Y INPUT - REFERENCE socket.
Connect the Chattock coil to be calibrated to the SPU Y INPUT - SIGNAL socket and
place the coil in the Calibration Unit slot with the two ends in contact with the base of
the two channels (this puts them either side of the calibration current signal winding).
On the SPU, select the 4 Amp Range and the QUAD/PHASE Mode on the SPU.
Optionally connect a DVM, set to read DC Volts, across the Analogue Y Phase output
sockets if it is expected to use the analogue outputs to drive a pen-plotter.
2.
CALIBRATION
Turn on the Calibration Unit by depressing the DC POWER ON/OFF switch.
On the SPU, press the SET CAL Y recessed switch. The Digital EL CID SPU will
display the message: 'CALIBRATION WILL START AFTER THE TONE'. After the
tone, the displayed message will be: 'CALIBRATION IS IN PROGRESS'. When
calibration is complete the tone will sound twice and the calibration parameter will be
displayed before returning to the main display screen. After Calibration, the Phase
signal should read 0.99A to 1.01A.
If present, check that the DVM reading is approximately 1.0 V.
On the Calibration Unit, press the ZERO CAL switch (momentary action) to short
circuit the signal current to calibration channel winding and the PHASE reading should
change from 1 Amp to zero.
Check that the DVM reading is zero. Releasing the ZERO CAL switch will switch the
Phase reading back to 1 Amp.
3.
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The sketch below shows the switch set for 50Hz and the settings for 50 and 60Hz are
marked on the circuit board above and below the switch as shown in the sketch. Take
care not to disturb the calibration potentiometer nearby. Refit base and screws securely
after changing.
50Hz =
0 0 1 0 0 1 1 0
On = 1
Off = 0
60Hz =
4.
0 0
0 1 1 1 1 0
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V4.04
APPENDIX 6
EL CID RELATED PAPERS AND PUBLICATIONS
1.
Sutton J
'Method and apparatus for testing laminated magnetic cores'. UK Patent No. 7930249,
31 August 1979.
2.
Sutton J
'Electromagnetic core imperfection detector - an easy way to test stator cores'. CEGB
Research, 13, pp 15-21, June 1982.
3.
4.
Rickson C
'Electrical machine core imperfection detector'. Proc. IEE, pp 190-195, 1986.
5.
Chattock A P
'On a magnetic potentiometer'. Phil. Mag. 24, pp 94, 1887.
6.
7.
Ridley G K
'EL CID application phenomena'. IEE Electrical Machines and Drives Conference,
Publication No. 376, pp 491-498, 1993 (Large Diameter Cores/Hydrogenerators).
8.
9.
Sutton J
'Theory of Electromagnetic Testing of Laminated Stator Cores'. British Journal of
Non-destructive Testing April 1994. (Short surface faults and long deep seated faults
within the core).
10.
Ridley G K
'Conducting an EL CID test on a hydro generator'. Hydropower and Dams, November
1994.
11.
Ridley G K
'Electromagnetic Field Distortion Effects on EL CID Tests'. IEE Electrical Machines
and Drives 7th International Conference Proceedings. Publication No. 412 pp 187193, September 1995.
Page 108
V4.04
12.
Ridley G K
'Four Hydrogenerator EL CID Test Analysis Case Studies'. Water Power and Dam
Construction, Proc. of Uprating and Refurbishing Hydro Powerplants. 5th
International Conference, Vol.3 October 1995.
13.
14.
Ridley G K
'Hydrogenerator stator core condition monitoring by EL CID'. EPRI Motor and
Generator Predictive Maintenance and Refurbishment, International Conference Proc.
November 1995.
15.
Ridley G K
'Why, When and How to apply EL CID to Hydrogenerators'. Modelling, Testing and
Monitoring for Hydro Powerplants II - Conference July 1996.
16.
Ridley G K
EL CID Application and Analysis. Book published by Adwel International Ltd,
2000, ISBN 0-9539465-0-9.
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V4.04
APPENDIX 7
ROTOR BAR TESTING USING EL CID
Detecting Rotor Bar Faults on Squirrel Cage Motors
The procedure is relatively simple and quick to implement. Essentially, all that is
required is access to the end rings connected to the rotor bars to enable injection of
around 2 amps ac. This can be done by self-adhesive tape clamping the connections to
the end rings although a more stable method is obviously more desirable. In order to
equalise as far as possible the resistive path of the end rings in series with each bar, it is
recommended that the connections to the end ring at each end of the rotor are made
180 from each other. As resistances are so small due to the bars being in parallel the
connection may be made in series with the excitation winding used for the stator check.
This will improve the variac control.
When a current is flowing in the rotor bars, the miniature Chattock potentiometer
should be stepped round the rotor laminations in a radial manner to monitor the flux
and hence current in each bar. Typically there may be 25 bars per cage and 60 to 80
milli-amps per bar should be a convenient level of current. The resultant eddy current
pick up on the Chattock through the individual bars can be clearly seen on the meter.
The EL CID is set to read in the 'Phase' mode.
As the Chattock is stepped round, the signal will be seen to give readings at a
consistent level when good bars are spanned, or a near zero reading if any break or
high impedance circuit is monitored. It should be noted that slight progressive
variations in the pick up from each bar will be noticed as the Chattock is spanned
sequentially across the bars due to the positions of the contact points on the end rings.
The test itself should take only 2 to 3 minutes and a fault is normally very conspicuous.
The tests are normally also effective on complex rotors, for example double cage
rotors, provided access to the flux generated by current in the rotor bars is possible
with the sensing coils.
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APPENDIX 8
OPERATION OF EARLIER ACQUIRE TEST SOFTWARE.
1.
INTRODUCTION
Operation of the Digital EL CID system during testing is controlled by the software
program ACQUIRE.COM which calls up and utilises two sub-programs
HEADER.EXE and ELCIDEND.EXE. ACQUIRE also uses a further sub-directory
DATA in which to store the test result files of the current test in progress. These
programs and sub-directory should be contained in the same directory, normally
ELCID. Entry to the test control and acquisition mode ACQUIRE was via the menu of
the overall windows program ELAN (Version 2.0) although it may also be entered
directly if installed alone (run ACQUIRE.COM).
The user may wish to consider using this software if the only available PC is very low
performance or is only Windows 95, as the Test software (ACQUIRE.COM) is a DOS
application.
The EL CID PC software was contained on the supplied diskettes or CD, and is also
copied in the ACQUIRE directory on the ELAN V3.x CD. The program may be
installed onto the PC by copying inserting the CD into the PC or copying the contents
of the ACQUIRE directory on the CD to a floppy disc, and running INSTALL.BAT,
following the further instructions appearing. The default installation of ACQUIRE
will be to an ELCID directory on the C: drive.
The ACQUIRE operating instructions may also be used for the earlier DEC versions of
the ACQUIRE program, although versions of DEC may not include all ACQUIRE
program features. It is not possible to start DEC from the main ELAN menu, but
ELAN may be used to display test data acquired with DEC.
The DIGITAL EL CID SPU interfaces directly with a PC using the RS232 serial port.
Measurements are displayed on the PC screen in the form of a horizontal trace as each
slot is traversed. These instructions frequently refer to a tractor for scanning the slots
but apply for any method of scanning.
The measurements are also stored in the PC RAM as each slot is being scanned. You
may analyse the data and obtain paper copies using the separate ELAN program or the
earlier display program ELPLOT.
The main features and options of ACQUIRE.COM (DEC.COM) are:(a)
(b)
The header and data files are written to a sub-directory, C:\ELCID\DATA. (In
the default mode, ELCID is installed in the ROOT directory).
(c)
V4.04
(d)
(e)
You will be asked to check the PC date and time since these are used in
labelling the files. Modifying the values will alter the PC internal clock.
(f)
The program asks you for information on the generator and test conditions and
checks that the values you provide are reasonable. The program calculates the
recommended 4% test voltage, based on assumptions of the machine
construction. (If the machine construction is different, an alternative to the
assumed value of Tp may be entered to obtain a revised value of the
recommended test voltage).
(g)
Brief guidance is given on the use of the graphics screen on which the ELCID
traces are plotted.
(h)
The graphics screen has various features to help with systematic scanning of
the stator.
(i)
After quitting the graphics screen at the end of the test, you are given a rsum
of the slot scans that have been measured and recorded as data files in the
C:\ELCID\DATA directory.
(j)
You have options to write a comment file to the disk and to return to the
beginning of the program.
The EL CID data acquisition software is designed to provide data
communication between the EL CID instrument and the associated PC via
either of the serial communication ports COM 1 or COM 2 of the PC. Users
should therefore ensure when using the EL CID test data acquisition program
that the selected PORT is not configured to be dedicated to other use.
(NB Earlier DEC.COM programs can use only COM 1).
2.
V4.04
continuation there will already be some files from the first part of the test (see 6.4)
3.
4.
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V4.04
The program then checks to see if there is already a sub-directory with that name. If
not, it invites you to choose the default name. You can specify another name for the
sub-directory. The program then makes the sub-directory, copies all the files from
C:\ELCID\DATA to the new sub-directory and finally deletes the files from
C:\ELCID\DATA.
5.
6.
7.
V4.04
paths (calculated from equations in Section 4.3 with k = 0.92). The information may
be useful in checking your own preliminary estimation. You can accept or modify the
value for Tp dependent upon machine construction, and this information would be
used to re-calculate the new value for 4% test excitation voltage.
8.
9.
Parameter
Minimum
Maximum
1
1A
0.5V
0.25m
40
100A
50V
Length of Core
Extension:-
.HDR
If Power Station name has more than six letters the end letters are removed, zeros are
added at end of a name having fewer than six letters.
The .HDR file contains all relevant information about the generator and test. It is read
and displayed by the present program when continuing and quitting tests and also by
the off-line display program.
Some of the information is also stored in binary format in the C:\ELCID\DATA
directory as another file, named HEADER.BIN.
The first line in the file is the first four letters of the Station name, followed by the
number of the Unit. Then follows:The Tractor Scan Length in mm.
Acceptable limits for In-Phase mA-turns per slot
The Number of Slots
All this information is used by the main program in setting up the graphs,
automatically cycling the slot numbers and in checking the signal from the SPU. The
in-Phase signal is normally approximately Iw/N and a warning is displayed if the
measured values are less or greater than the expected value for a uniformly constructed
machine.
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You are now ready to progress to the next screen, which gives notes on using the
graphics screen.
10.
11.
12.
SINGLE SCANS
Tractor will travel towards centre of the core on the first slot
and return back on next slot
INCREASING SLOT #
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X1
If you press the up-cursor (arrow) key once, the slot number increases by one. If you
hold the key down, it increases up to the maximum number of slots for the core. It
then cycles back to slot one and continues increasing, reflecting the circular slot
numbering system.
The down-cursor key behaves similarly but makes the slot number decrease, cycling
back from one to the maximum slot number. Select the correct slot number for the
first scan or to an alternative slot choice. (Subsequent slot numbers will be selected
automatically by the program).
START FROM / RETURN TO
Press the right-cursor key and the block-cursor will position itself above START FROM.
The up/down cursor keys will toggle this to RETURN TO.
The tractor position is always measured relative to the starting end of the first trace of
the START/RETURN pair. START FROM is therefore normally used for scans from an end of
the core towards the centre, whereas RETURN TO is for scans back to the starting end.
(The options are selected automatically during the scanning, see below).
Check for or re-select the START FROM option if the count is required from zero.
EXCITER END/TURBINE END
Press the right-cursor key again and the block-cursor will position itself above EXCITER
END. The up/down cursor keys toggle this to TURBINE. Select the appropriate starting end.
The terms EXCITER and TURBINE are for descriptive purposes only and do not affect the
test. If scanning from one end only, the other end may be used for other purposes, eg
to record additional repeat traces for selected slots.
SINGLE SCANS/DOUBLE SCANS
A further press of the right-cursor key positions the block-cursor over SINGLE SCANS.
Select SINGLE SCANS if each slot is to be measured only once, ie either as the tractor or
other method of scanning travels towards the centre of the core or back to the starting
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end. Use DOUBLE SCANS if measurements are to be made in both directions on each slot.
The program uses the SINGLE SCANS/DOUBLE SCANS feature to select automatically START
FROM/RETURN TO as appropriate at the beginning of each scan.
INCREASING SLOT #/DECREASING SLOT #
Pressing the right-cursor key again allows INCREASING SLOT# with the up/down cursor
keys. The setting has no immediate effect; it is used to select automatically the correct
slot number for the next scan.
If you are measuring around the core so that the next slot has a higher number than the
last, then select INCREASING SLOT# and vice-versa.
X1 / X2 / X5
A final press of the right-cursor key positions the block cursor above X1. This can be
changed to X2 or X5 by pressing the up-cursor key and back down to X2 or X1 with the
down-cursor key. These numbers refer to the sensitivity of one division on the
Y-Axis. The values depend on the SPU range setting as shown in the table.
SPU
RANGE
400mA
4A
40A
X2
20mA
200mA
2A
X5
50mA
500mA
5A
The SPU is normally used on the 4A range and X1 display option selected. This gives
the normal sensitivity of 100mA/division on the Y-Axis.
GENERAL
You can re-select and change any of the options using the cursor keys. Once you are
happy with the options press Enter to accept the settings. The program returns to the
previous menu, ready to start measurements. (You can go back and change the settings
at any time by pressing A to Alter). Remember that the display indicates the setting for the
current scan. Earlier traces on the screen may have been made with different settings.
14.
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V4.04
15.
Y=100mA/div
POSITION=0mm
This is the distance in millimetres of the tractor from the end of the
core (currently 0mm). The position counts up from zero as the tractor
drives into the core and counts back down as it returns. It can show a
slight negative reading if there is slippage on the tractor's distance
encoder wheel. (This is corrected when the traces are re-produced by
ELPLOT.EXE)
PHASE=XmA
This is the measured in-Phase m.p.d. across the slot. (On a normal core
it is approximately the total ampere-turns through the winding divided
by the number of teeth). The value shown is the average of the last 16
readings and, as these occur every 20ms, the display is up-dated about
three times a second at typical scan speeds.
QUAD=XmA
The SPU sends information on its range setting to the PC only at the start of each scan
and so any change made during a scan will cause errors in the displayed current
values and sensitivities.
16.
V4.04
will not have sufficient resolution to display every 2mm position for scan lengths
greater than 1.6m. A few measurements will then be plotted at the same screen X
position. Peak readings will still be visible.
If the tractor is returned along the same slot, the two traces will be displayed on top of
each other. This provides a test of the reproducibility of the measurements, since the
two traces should merge provided there is no X axis slippage.
17.
18.
If you want to Discard the data, press D and the data is lost. Both S and D clear the
RAM, ready for the next scan.
19.
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21.
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REASONABLE
22.
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APPENDIX 9
TROUBLE SHOOTING PROCEDURES
1
6.3
7
No Reference
5.1
5.2
5.3
No Signal
4.1
4.2
No or Defective Display
3.1
3.2
3.3
3.4
Check supply (note the mains supply light takes about a second to come on).
Check fuses in inlet socket.
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Calibration Unit
8.1
8.2
8.3
No supply light
8.1.1 Check for volts on pins 2 & 4 on aux. power socket of SPU.
8.1.2 If no volts 8.1.1 replace power supply board in SPU.
8.1.3 Check continuity of Calibration Unit input power lead.
8.1.4 Replace Calibration Unit circuit board.
No signal
8.2.1 Change Chattock
8.2.2 Replace Calibration Unit circuit board.
No reference
8.3.1 Take Reference Coil Terminal Box out of circuit.
8.3.2 Check continuity of Reference Coil.
8.3.3 Check continuity of Reference Signal Output Loop.
8.3.4 Replace Calibration Unit circuit board.
10
10.2
10.3
10.4
10.5
11
Make sure that the EL CID is connected to the PC and turned on before starting
the ELAN Test program. The correct connection to the EL CID can be tested
via the Options Menu and the Comms Test button. If the PC to EL CID
connection is correctly present this will report Test OK.
Check the RS232 cable for continuity and correct configuration. (See sections
above). Cables not supplied by Adwel International Ltd. may be incorrectly
configured. Particularly note the need for a RTS-CTS connection at the EL
CID end.
If you are sure it is not any of the above replace No. 4 board.
Replace No. 3 circuit board.
Replace No 5 circuit board.
Excitation Winding
11.1
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10.2
No trace voltage.
Measured voltage on Trace winding should be in the order of but slightly less
than the supply voltage to the excitation winding divided by the number of
turns. If absent, check the excitation current is flowing, and if so is the
excitation winding continuous and not shorted.
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APPENDIX 10
SPECIFICATIONS
STANDARD DIGITAL EL CID KIT.
Note: The Digital EL CID SPU kit can be used as a stand-alone piece of equipment, but it
requires the use of a Computer to run the ELAN Test data acquisition program, save
the data and then display that data for off line Analysis. A suitable Portable Computer
is normally supplied with the standard kit.
1
Resolution
100A
1mA
10mA
TTL Compatible.
0.17 to 2.0mm per pulse.
2 Phase Pulses.
Single Pulse plus Polarity.
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Display
Outputs:
Output to PC over Serial Link
Analogue Outputs
- Y phase
- Y quad
- X distance
Aux Power Output
Mechanical:
SPU Size (W x H x D)
Kit Weight
Environmental:
Temperature Operating Range
Storage temperature Range
Relative Humidity
EMC
Safety
Compliance/Approvals
SPU Weight
Kit Size (W x H x D)
CALIBRATION UNIT
Input voltage/current from SPU
Frequency of Output Current
Output to Reference Coil
A/Turns on Calibration Slot
7 to 11 V DC, 100 mA
50 or 60 Hz, internally selectable
100 mA
1000 mA 1%
RS232
1V/A in 4A range.
1V/A in 4A range.
1V/2m.
7 to 11V dc, 100mA.
2 mV/A at 50 Hz
(Higher sensitivity coils available)
CHATTOCK POTENTIOMETERS
Standard sizes
Nominal Output
Connector
(Other Chattocks available to order.)
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COMPUTER
Minimum PC for operation
IBM PC Compatible, Pentium 166 or higher
32Mb RAM, 50Mb Hard Disc spare
1.44M FDD, free RS232 COM port
SVGA (800x600) Compatible Colour display
Windows 98, ME, 2000 or XP
Recommended PC for operation (if not included with Kit)
Pentium II, 500MHz,
64Mb RAM, 200Mb Hard Disc spare,
1.44M FDD, free RS232 COM port
XVGA (1024 x 768) Compatible Colour display.
PRINTER
Text and Graphics colour printing capability, A4 or 8.5x11
OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES
RIV Robotic Inspection Vehicle
Lap-top Computer if not already supplied with Kit.
Colour Inkjet Printer
Chart Recorder
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CHART RECORDER:
The chart recorder is driven by TTL level pulses into external timebase input. The X
Axis output from the PULSE X Recorder Socket is variable. The number of
pulses/mm of traversed bore, plus direction signal, is dependent on the sense head
equipment used, (RIV output is 3.18 pulses/mm). The required chart recorder input
range will be that to display a bore length of approximately 0.5m to 10m (2,000 to
40,000 pulses) for length of recorded trace required (ie. 80 to 1,600 pulse per cm for
25cm trace).
The chart recorder should be calibrated to a measured distance travelled by the sense
head.
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APPENDIX 11
SYSTEM CONNECTION DETAILS
1.
Cable length 1m
EL CID Rx (Red)
EL CID Tx (Blue)
0V (Screen)
RTS
CTS
EL CID Rx (Red)
EL CID Tx (Blue)
0V (Screen)
*DTR (Remote LED)
*RI (Remote Button)
RTS
CTS
Plug pins
(7 way DIN Plug)
1
2
3
4
5
N/C
Red +5V
Black 0V
Green 0V
Blue Encoder Signal
Yellow Encoder Signal
*Remote Button
Cable length 3m
The signals shown with a * are controlled by electronics within the Interface
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3.
4.
5.
Cable length 1m
Red +9V
Blue 0V
7.
0V
Sig
Sig
6.
Cable length 5m
Screen 0V
Red Sig
Blue Sig
Cable length 1m
CHATTOCK LEADS
Wiring (5 pin DIN Plug to Chattock Coil lead)
Plug pins
Wire colour
1
Screen
2
Red
3
Black
4 and 5
N/C
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0V
Sig
Sig
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8.
9.
10.
11.
Cable length 5m
Screen 0V
Red Sig
Blue Sig
(1m)
Live
Neutral
Earth
Sockets (4mm)
BLUE
Blue
AC Voltmeter
AC Voltmeter
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Trace Winding
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APPENDIX 12
CONSIDERATIONS WHEN TESTING HYDROGENERATORS
1.
INTRODUCTION
Although the basic principles of ELCID testing are the same as for turbogenerators,
there are significant differences in the way tests on hydrogenerators should be carried
out. These practical aspects are addressed in this section.
The major differences in construction that affect the preferred test procedures are:?? The core diameter is generally much greater in hydrogenerators. Hence larger
excitation currents (Ampere-turns) and a different winding configuration are
required.
?? Hydrogenerator cores are often built in two or more sections (spanning 180, 120
or 90, etc) and then assembled on site. There are then inevitably circumferential
gaps at the joints between the sections of laminated core, which cause high
PHASE and QUAD readings. These high background readings can mask signals
from nearby faults. Procedures for managing these difficulties are given later.
?? Hydrogenerators are, more often than turbogenerators, tested with the rotor
partially or fully in situ as access is normally less difficult. Extra steel in the
vicinity of the core in the form of the rotor bearings, the rotor itself, etc. can cause
tilting of the base lines of measured QUAD traces.
2.
GENERAL PREPARATIONS
The general preparations are similar to those described in Section 4.2 for
turbogenerators.
a.
Access
If the rotor has been removed, access to the stator bore is likely to be straightforward.
It is also possible to perform an ELCID test with the rotor in place. If the air gap is
sufficiently large, it may be possible to do the test without removing any poles by using
a special Adwel low profile tractor vehicle (RIV 702).
If one or more poles are removed to provide access for the Sense Head/Trolley, or if
the space between poles can be used, then it is essential that the rotor can be rotated
easily. This is straightforward if high pressure bearing lubrication is available,
otherwise arrangements are required to jack the rotor and apply rotational torque
manually.
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b.
Scanning the Slots
Decide in advance of the test the best way of scanning the slots, taking into account the
height and diameter of the core, access, the test equipment available, etc. With the
hand-held magnetically attached trolley, it will be necessary to be able to reach all parts
of each slot, possibly with the aid of a ladder. Alternatively, it may be possible to work
from the top of the core using a lead attached to the trolley to lower or pull it down
each slot and to pull it back up again. If you have a motorised magnetic tractor then it
may be best to work from the bottom of the core, driving the tractor up and down each
tooth.
3.
Fig A13.1
Preferred winding
for Turbo-generators
Fig A13.2
Distributed Winding
Fig A13.3
Recommended winding
for Hydro-generators
Distributing the return winding at three, four, or more, equally spaced positions around
the core, as shown in Figure A13.2, alleviates the tilt problem by reducing the leakage
fields from each radial section of the winding, but this type of winding may be difficult
to install.
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The winding configuration shown in Figure A13.3 is now generally recommended for
testing hydrogenerators. The winding is made up of preferably three or more sections,
each wound close to the core and uniformly spaced around it. If the core is split it is
preferable to have one or two winding sections for each section of core. A minor
disadvantage is that it is necessary to move the windings during the test because
ELCID measurements should not be carried within one metre of any section of the
winding. Hence there must be sufficient slack in each section to enable it to be moved
around the core. The cable connecting the sections around the core should also have
enough slack to enable each section to be moved at least one metre in either direction.
The return" cable connecting the last section to the power supply should preferably be
brought back alongside the "go" cable, so that their unwanted magnetic fields cancel.
It is also important to ensure that all the sections are wound directly around the core,
with the winding in the bore parallel to the teeth.
b.
Calculation of Excitation Voltage
The required ELCID excitation voltage is calculated in the same way as for
turbogenerators (Section 4.3) This handbook also contains a more detailed APPENDIX
3 covering excitation calculations. The stator bar winding arrangement on
hydrogenerators is normally more complex than on turbogenerators and care must be
taken to establish the correct value for tp.
Alternatively, if you are not sure of the stator winding arrangement, but you do know
the flux per pole, you can easily calculate the rms rated voltage V, using:
Vr = 2.2 f ? p
where
f is the frequency (Hz)
and
? p is the peak flux per pole (Webers)
Hence the 4% of rated flux excitation, used for the ELCID test, is given by
VT= 4.44 ? p
for f = 50 Hz
VT = 5.33 ? p
for f = 60 Hz
c.
Calculation of Excitation Current
As with turbogenerators, the Ampere-turns( It Nw) required to generate the 4% test
flux in the core is proportional to its circumference -which is normally larger. It may
also,be more necessary for the winding to enclose other magnetic components. Extra
Ampere-turns@are required to drive flux across the gaps at any joints in the core. @
@Because of these three effects, the Ampere-turns required for a hydrogenerator is
often 5 to 1 0 times greater than for a turbogenerator with similar power rating.
If a theoretical value for excitation current is required and a reliable magnetisation (BH) curve for the stator steel is available, the required excitation may be calculated as
described in this paragraph. From Faraday's law, the peak flux density in the core is
given by:
Bc = 2 VT / 2 p f Ac
where Ac is the cross-section of the flux path in the stator iron
given by:
Ac = (Do Dg - 2ds) (Lc Nd Wd) SF/2
where
Do is the stator core outside diameter (m)
Dg is the stator core internal diameter (m)
Lc is the stator core length (m)
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V4.04
and
Having calculated the Bc value, look up the magnetisation (B-H) curve for the stator
steel to find the corresponding H (in Ampere-turns per metre). The Ampere-turns
required to excite the core is then given by:
IwtNw = H Cc
where Cc, the average circumference of the core, is given by:
Cc = 7c (Do + (Dg - 2ds))/2
About 30% should be added to this value to compensate for the effects of the gaps and
other steel linked by the winding.
A useful rule of thumb for the excitation is between 10 and 40 Ampere-turns per metre
of circumference of core, measured at the mean 4 diameter of the main core. In
practice most hydrogenerators require between 150 and 500 Ampere-turns.
d.
Calculation of Number of Winding Turns, Current and Voltage
Having estimated the Ampere-turns (Iwt Nw) decide on the number of turns Nw, taking
into account the current ratings of the available cable and the single-phase supply.
Assuming you are using a recommended winding arrangement, the number of turns
must also be a multiple of the number of winding sections, Ns since all sections should
carry the same Ampere-turns. Also Ns should be equal to, or be twice, the number of
sections in a jointed core.
The number of positions at which the winding can be installed around the core may be
restricted by access to the machine, e.g. there may be only 6 openings around the
bottom of the stator frame. In this case the winding could only realistically have 3 or 6
sections.
A variable ratio autotransformer (Variac) may be required to obtain exactly 4%
excitation, but it may alternatively be possible to achieve close to 4% by matching the
number of turns to the voltage of the mains supply.
Example Calculation.
Suppose that the 4% flux level corresponds to 3.8V/turn and the
supply voltage is 120V. A 30 turn winding would then develop
120/30 = 4V per turn. Hence a three-section winding would have ten
turns per section. An altenative would be 32 turns (3.75V per turn)
arranged in four sections each with eight turns. The actual induced
voltage in the core will be rather less because of the resistive voltage
drop in the excitation cable. (This could be calculated from the length
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At the first of the Ns positions on the core, wind Nw/Ns turns of cable
loosely around the stator casing and through the bore. Tape the turns
together and ensure that the section can be moved easily around the core.
ii.
iii.
Return to power supply via the first winding section, laying the return cable
alongside the cable already connecting the sections together. Tape these
"go" and "return" cables together every metre or so.
iv.
Wind a single turn, trace winding around the core at a convenient position,
close to the power supply.
v.
Connect a voltmeter to the trace winding and use a clip-on or other ammeter
to measure the current through the excitation winding.
vi.
Connect the excitation winding to the mains supply, either directly, or via a
suitably rated variable transformer (Variac).
vii.
Before switching on the current, double check that there are no foreign
metallic objects in the bore
viii.
If you are using a Variac, turn its output knob to zero before switching on.
Then gradually increase the output while monitoring the current and the
trace voltage. Continue until you reach the required trace voltage or until
the rating of the power supply or excitation cable or Variac is reached.
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5.
ix.
If you are not using a Variac, switch on the mains supply and check that the
current through the excitation winding is within the ratings of the cable and
power supply. It may be necessary to increase the number of winding turns,
Nt, to reduce the current (at the expense of reducing the voltage at which the
test is carried out).
x.
Check the uniformity of the excitation voltage around the core by moving
the trace winding voltages around the core. There should be only a few
percent difference between the voltages close to a winding section and that
mid-way between two sections.
xi.
Switch off the power until the ELCID test equipment has been set up.
6.
7.
V4.04
In a turbo-generator, the phase of the leakage field from the winding is virtually
constant around the bore. This is not the case, however, with most hydrogenerators,
since the phase of the leakage field varies considerably around the core if it has joints
or if the rotor has not been removed.
It is recommended that the PHASE RESET operation (or any equivalent phase
adjustment to the Reference Signal with an analogue instrument) is carried out at the
start of a global test, and that the phase setting is not altered (except see paragraph 7f)
until all the slots have been measured. Carry out this PHASE RESET with the Sense
Head positioned slightly (say 10mm) above one of the slots midway between two
sections of the excitation winding and half way up the slot, in the centre of a packet.
Record the Calibration Angle indicated by the SPU where available.
b.
The Initial Check
When carrying out the initial check or phase adjustment on the core, ensure that the
chosen slot is well away from any joint in the core and is at least lm from the nearest
section of the excitation winding. The PHASE current measured across the slot may
be rather less than Iw/N, because, of the extra mmf developed across the gaps at any
joints in the core.
c.
Measurements Close to Sections of the Excitation Winding
When you get to within one metre of any section of the excitation winding, stop
making measurements and move that section at least one metre further away around
the core. Then continue measuring the slots until you reach the original position of the
winding section. Then move section back two metres, or more, so that it is at least one
metre away, on the other side of its original position. Then continue the measurements
until the next winding section is approached.
d.
Measurements with the Rotor in situ
If one or more of the rotor poles have been removed, start by measuring a slot near the
centre of the gap between the remaining poles. As you continue measuring slots closer
to one of the poles, you will probably find that the base lines of the recorded QUAD
traces become tilted at the top and bottom of the scans (because of changes in electrical
losses in the poles). Since such tilts can mask the presence of a fault, it is then
necessary to turn the rotor to increase the distance of the pole from the area of core
being measured.
If none of the poles have been removed, it is possible that the QUAD traces for slots
underneath the pole pieces are sufficiently flat, as well as those measured between
poles. In this case there is obviously no need to turn the rotor. However, it may be
advantageous or necessary to turn the rotor at regular intervals to reduce trace
distortion.
e.
Changing the SPU Range for Measurements Close to Core Joints
If the core has joints, the inevitable gaps between the laminations will generate a high
impedance to the magnetic flux flowing around the core. This means that the PHASE
current (magnetic potential difference) measured across the slot or tooth containing the
gap will be much higher (up to 25A) than elsewhere in the core (typically around 1 A).
A large signal is also likely across the adjacent slots, either side of the joint.
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Hence the large magnetic potential difference across slots with a gap is likely to
overload the SPU signal input if it is has been set to the 4A range as normally
recommended. It is therefore usually necessary to switch to the 40A range when
measuring the slots either side of a joint. Remember to change back to the 4A range
when you have passed the joint.
f.
Repeat Measurements of Slots near Core Joints.
The magnetic field near core joints is much higher than elsewhere because of the
magnetic flux 'leaks" from the core at the gaps. Since this flux emanates from the core
itself, it is phase-shifted, typically by 15 or more, with respect to the current in the
winding and to the leakage field away from the joints (because of eddy current and
hysteresis losses in the core).
Because- the leakage flux at slots near the joints is so large and because it is phaseshifted, the QUAD traces can have very large offsets (a few Amperes) that may swamp
the signals from currents flowing through any damaged regions of the core on adjacent
teeth. Resetting the Reference Phase at the SPU helps mitigate the problem. This
should be carried out after all the slots have been scanned with the standard phase
setting (paragraph 7a). At present the recommended procedure is as follows:
i.
For the slot spanning the joint, position the Sense Head so that the Chattock
Potentiometer is about 10mm above the tips of the teeth, half way up the
core and in the centre of a core packet.
ii.
Carry out the Phase Reset operation and record the Calibration Angle
indicated by the SPU where available.
iii.
iv.
Repeat procedures for the a), b), and c) for the two slots either side of the
slot spanning the joint.
v.
Repeat procedures for the a), b), c) and d) at the remaining joints.
If the joint in the core is on the tooth tip rather than at the base of the slot, the problem
with the high leakage flux can be further mitigated for detection of faults in the core up
to the edge of the joint by reducing the width of the Chattock Potentiometer so that it
does not span the joint. In this case however, any faults between laminations at the
joint itself are less likely to be detected and a trace spanning the joint should still be
taken.
g.
LOCAL CORE TESTS
As with tests on turbogenerators, local core tests should be made to confirm, pinpoint
and measure the severity of any core damage found visually, by global EL CID or
thermal ring-flux tests, especially if field distortions at core splits cause uncertainties in
global test interpretation. The local tests are particularly effective near core splits,
since the much smaller span of the mini Chattock Potentiometer means that unwanted
signals from the high leakage fields are greatly reduced. Effects of leakage fields are
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further reduced if you Reset PHASE with the mini Chattock Potentiometer on the tooth
close to the -suspected fault, as described below.
Follow the detailed procedures for the local core tests given in Section 5.3. When
pinpointing suspected damage on a tooth tip, Reset the PHASE with the mini Chattock
Potentiometer on the tooth close to but not on the suspected damage. This will bring
the QUAD reading to a low value so that it is easier to detect the increase when the
Chattock is spanning the damage.
8.
9.
at 50 Hz
at 60 Hz
where Ac is the cross-section of the flux path in the stator iron given by:
Ac = (Do - Dg - 2ds) (Lc Nd Wd) SF/2 (see Section 4.4), and
I = v(P2 +Q2) , the vector sum of the measured PHASE and QUAD
currents.
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APPENDIX 13
CE DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY
Manufacturers Name:
Manufacturers Address:
Digital EL CID
601
All
EN61326-1: 1997
Safety:
(Council Directive 73/23/EEC &
93/68/EEC)
EN 61010-1: 1993
Class A
Marks of Compliance
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