S C VacuFuse II Self Resetting Interrupter Instruction Manual
- June 12, 2024
- S C
Table of Contents
- S C VacuFuse II Self Resetting Interrupter
- Product Information
- Operating Considerations
- Product Usage Instructions
- Introduction
- Safety Information
- Shipping and Handling
- Before Starting
- Installation
- Operation
- Troubleshooting
- References
- Read User Manual Online (PDF format)
- Download This Manual (PDF format)
S C VacuFuse II Self Resetting Interrupter
Product Information
The VacuFuse II Self-Resetting Interrupter is a device designed for the
protection of distribution transformers. It is intended to be used by
qualified persons who have received adequate training and experience in safety
procedures for this type of equipment. The
interrupter is equipped with safety features and indicators to ensure proper
operation and protection.
Qualified Persons
Qualified persons are individuals who have undergone adequate training and have the necessary experience in working with electrical equipment. These individuals should be familiar with safety procedures and guidelines for working on or near exposed energized parts of electrical equipment.
Proper Application
It is important to ensure that the application of the VacuFuse II Self- Resetting Interrupter is within the ratings specified for the equipment. The ratings can be found in the ratings table in Specification Bulletin 466-31 and are also etched on the body of the interrupter. Failure to use the interrupter within its specified ratings may result in improper operation and potential damage to the equipment.
Operating Considerations
When using the VacuFuse II Self-Resetting Interrupter, it is essential to understand the closing sequence, LED indicators, and POSITION indicator. These features provide information about the status and position of the interrupter, ensuring proper installation and operation.
Warranty
The VacuFuse II Self-Resetting Interrupter comes with a warranty. The details of the warranty, including warranty qualifications, can be found in the instruction sheet.
Application Note
An application note is provided to offer additional guidance and information on the use of the VacuFuse II Self-Resetting Interrupter. This note should be reviewed to ensure proper installation and operation.
Product Usage Instructions
Safety Information
It is crucial to understand and follow the safety instructions provided with the VacuFuse II Self-Resetting Interrupter. Safety-alert messages are included to draw attention to specific safety precautions that must be observed during installation and operation. Make sure to read and understand these messages before proceeding.
Following Safety Instructions
Adhere to all safety instructions provided in the instruction sheet to ensure safe installation and operation of the interrupter. Failure to follow these instructions may result in personal injury or damage to the equipment.
Replacement Instructions and Labels
If replacement of any component or label is necessary, refer to the instruction sheet for detailed replacement instructions. Follow these instructions carefully to ensure proper replacement.
Location of Safety Labels
The location of safety labels on the VacuFuse II Self-Resetting Interrupter is indicated in the instruction sheet. Take note of these labels and their respective locations for easy reference during installation and operation.
Safety Precautions
Prior to starting the installation or operation of the VacuFuse II Self- Resetting Interrupter, it is important to review and adhere to the safety precautions provided in the instruction sheet. These precautions are essential for maintaining a safe working environment and preventing accidents or damage.
Shipping and Handling
When receiving or transporting the VacuFuse II Self-Resetting Interrupter, follow the shipping and handling guidelines provided in the instruction sheet. These guidelines ensure the safe handling and protection of the interrupter during transit.
Inspection
Perform a thorough inspection of the interrupter upon receipt. Check for any visible damage or defects. If any issues are identified, refer to the instruction sheet for further instructions on returning or resolving the problem.
Packing
Follow the packing instructions provided in the instruction sheet when packing the interrupter for transportation or storage. Proper packing ensures the integrity of the interrupter and protects it from potential damage.
Handling
Handle the VacuFuse II Self-Resetting Interrupter with care to prevent any damage. Refer to the instruction sheet for recommended handling procedures and techniques.
Storage
If storage of the interrupter is required, follow the storage guidelines provided in the instruction sheet. Proper storage conditions help maintain the performance and longevity of the interrupter.
Returning
If the interrupter needs to be returned for any reason, refer to the instruction sheet for instructions on the return process. Follow these instructions to ensure a smooth and efficient return process.
Before Starting
Prior to installing or operating the VacuFuse II Self-Resetting Interrupter, it is essential to familiarize yourself with its parts, closing sequence, LED indicators, and POSITION indicator. This knowledge will facilitate proper installation and operation.
VacuFuse II Interrupter Parts
Refer to the instruction sheet for a detailed description and illustration of the parts included with the VacuFuse II Self-Resetting Interrupter. Understanding these parts will aid in the installation process.
Understanding the Closing Sequence
The closing sequence is explained in detail in the instruction sheet. Study this sequence to ensure proper installation and operation of the interrupter.
Understanding the LED Indicators and POSITION Indicator
The instruction sheet provides information on the LED indicators and the
POSITION indicator. These indicators provide valuable information about the
status and position of the interrupter during operation. Familiarize yourself
with these indicators for effective
monitoring and troubleshooting.
Troubleshooting
Unable to Close a VacuFuse II Interrupter into its Mounting
If you encounter difficulties closing the VacuFuse II Self-Resetting Interrupter into its mounting, refer to the troubleshooting section in the instruction sheet. This section provides guidance and solutions for resolving this issue.
In Mounting With Contacts Open
If the contacts of the interrupter are open during mounting, consult the troubleshooting section in the instruction sheet. This section offers troubleshooting steps to address this problem.
Vacuum Interrupter Cannot Be Closed
If you are unable to close the vacuum interrupter, refer to the troubleshooting section in the instruction sheet. This section provides troubleshooting steps to help resolve this issue.
Introduction
Qualified Persons
WARNING
Only qualified persons who are knowledgeable in the installation, operation, and maintenance of distribution fusing equipment, along with all associated hazards, may install, operate, and maintain the equipment covered by this publication? A qualified person is someone who is trained and competent in:
- The skills and techniques necessary to distinguish exposed live parts from nonlive parts of electrical equipment
- The skills and techniques necessary to determine the proper approach distances corresponding to the voltages to which the qualified person will be exposed
- The proper use of special precautionary techniques, personal protective equipment, insulating and shielding materials, and insulated tools for working on or near exposed energized parts of electrical equipment
These instructions are intended ONLY for such qualified persons? They are not intended to be a substitute for adequate training and experience in safety procedures for this type of equipment?
Read this Instruction Sheet
NOTICE
Thoroughly and carefully read this instruction sheet before installing or
operating a VacuFuse II Self-Resetting Interrupter? Become familiar with the
Safety Information and Safety Precautions on pages 5 through 7? The latest
version of this publication is available online in PDF format at
sandc?com/en/support/product-literature/
Retain this Instruction Sheet
This instruction sheet is a permanent part of the VacuFuse II Self-Resetting
Interrupter. Designate a location where users can easily retrieve and refer to
this publication.
Proper Application
WARNING
The VacuFuse II Self-Resetting Interrupter is only intended for the protection
of distribution transformers The application must be within the ratings
furnished for the equipment Ratings for the VacuFuse II Self-Resetting
Interrupter are listed in the ratings table in Specification Bulletin 466-31?
They are also etched on the body of the interrupter
Operating Considerations
- For Fault-Testing VacuFuse II Self-Resetting Interrupters: The VacuFuse II Self-Resetting Interrupter is factory-set with a TCC curve, an open interval between the initial trip (TCC0) and the first test (TCC1) of 45 ± 10 seconds, as well as a sequence reset time (between 30 seconds and 15 minutes.)
- The sequence of operation is as follows: The interrupter will open once in response to its TCC curve and will have an open interval lasting 45 ± 10 seconds. Then, it will close, and its TCC curve will again become active.
- If the fault is still on the line, the VacuFuse II Self-Resetting Interrupter will lock open and drop out. If fault current is not still on the line, the Sequence Reset Time timer will begin timing. If another fault occurs during this time, the VacuFuse II Self-Resetting
- Interrupter will lock open and drop out. If this timer expires without the VacuFuse II interrupter detecting fault current, the VacuFuse II interrupter will reset to TCC0. Unless it has been specifically requested at the time of order, TCC0 is the same curve as TCC1.
- For Non-Fault-Testing VacuFuse II Interrupters: Non-fault-testing VacuFuse II interrupters are factory-set with a single TCC curve. The sequence of operation is as follows: The interrupter will open once in response to its TCC curve and lock open. When sufficient energy has built up in the device (45 ± 10 seconds), the unit will drop out.
Warranty
The warranty and/or obligations described in S&C’s Price Sheet 150 “Standard Conditions of Sale – Immediate Purchasers in the United States” (or Price Sheet 153, “Standard Conditions of Sale –Immediate Purchasers Outside the United States”), plus any special warranty provisions, as set forth in the applicable product-line specification bulletin, are exclusive. The remedies provided in the former for breach of these warranties shall constitute the immediate purchaser’s or end user’s exclusive remedy and a fulfillment of the seller’s entire liability. In no event shall the seller’s liability to the immediate purchaser or end user exceed the price of the specific product that gives rise to the immediate purchaser’s or end user’s claim. All other warranties, whether express or implied or arising by operation of law, course of dealing, usage of trade or otherwise, are excluded. The only warranties are those stated in Price Sheet 150 (or Price Sheet 153), and THERE ARE NO EXPRESS OR IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. ANY EXPRESS WARRANTY OR OTHER OBLIGATION PROVIDED IN PRICE SHEET 150 (OR PRICE SHEET 153) IS GRANTED ONLY TO THE IMMEDIATE PURCHASER AND END USER, AS DEFINED THEREIN. OTHER THAN AN END USER, NO REMOTE PURCHASER MAY RELY ON ANY AFFIRMATION OF FACT OR PROMISE THAT RELATES TO THE GOODS DESCRIBED HEREIN, ANY DESCRIPTION THAT RELATES TO THE GOODS, OR ANY REMEDIAL PROMISE INCLUDED IN PRICE SHEET 150 (OR PRICE SHEET 153.)
Warranty Qualifications
The seller’s warranties do not apply to VacuFuse II interrupters installed in other than a present-production (“-R10” or “-R11”) S&C-provided cutout mounting.
NOTICE
When retrofitting VacuFuse II interrupters in an existing cutout mounting: To ensure proper performance, VacuFuse II interrupters must only be installed in a present-production (“-R10” or “-R11”) S&C-provided cutout mounting? See the example in Figure 1? An example of an earlier-production S&C cutout mounting is shown in Figure 2. The warranty set forth in S&C Price Sheet 150 does not apply to a VacuFuse II interrupter retrofitted in other than a present- production (“-R10” or “-R11”) S&C-provided cutout mounting.
- Figure 1. A present-production (“-R10” or “-R11”) S&C-provided Type XS Fuse Cutout mounting.
- Figure 2. An earlier-production (“-R9”) S&C Type XS Fuse Cutout mounting. “-R8” and earlier versions have a similar upper contact.
Application Note
VacuFuse II Self-Resetting Interrupters are expressly designed for protecting solidly grounded single-phase overhead distribution transformers with primary voltages of 7.2 kV to 15.5 kV. These voltages correspond to the line-to- neutral voltages of single-phase transformers on systems rated 12.47 kV to 27.0 kV.
Understanding Safety-Alert Messages
Several types of safety-alert messages may appear throughout this instruction sheet and on labels and tags attached to the VacuFuse II Self-Resetting Interrupter. Become familiar with these messages and the importance of these signal words:
DANGER
“DANGER” identifies the most serious and immediate hazards that will likely
result in serious personal injury or death if instructions, including
recommended precautions, are not followed.
WARNING
“WARNING” identifies hazards or unsafe practices that can result in serious
personal injury or death if instructions, including recommended precautions,
are not followed.
CAUTION
“CAUTION” identifies hazards or unsafe practices that can result in minor
personal injury if instructions, including recommended precautions, are not
followed.
NOTICE
“NOTICE” identifies important procedures or requirements that can result in
product or property damage if instructions are not followed.
Following Safety Instructions
If any portion of this instruction sheet is unclear and assistance is needed, contact the nearest S&C Sales Office or S&C Authorized Distributor. Their telephone numbers are listed on S&C’s website sandc.com, or call the S&C Global Support and Monitoring Center at 1-888-762-1100.
NOTICE
Read this instruction sheet thoroughly and carefully before installing the VacuFuse II Self-Resetting Interrupter.
Replacement Instructions and Labels
If additional copies of this instruction sheet are required, contact the nearest S&C Sales Office, S&C Authorized Distributor, S&C Headquarters, or S&C Electric Canada Ltd. The latest version is available online in PDF format at sandc.com/en/Support/Product-Literature/. It is important that any missing, damaged, or faded labels on the equipment be replaced immediately. Replacement labels are available by contacting the nearest S&C Sales Office, S&C Authorized Distributor, S&C Headquarters, or S&C Electric Canada Ltd.
Safety Information
Location of Safety Labels
Reorder Information for Safety Labels
Location | Safety Alert Message | Description | Part Number |
---|
A
| WARNING| ****
A VacuFuse® II Self-Resetting Interrupter must be dropped out from the cutout mounting to be considered OPEN and de-energized
Device may be energized from either side…
| ****
G-9842
DANGER
B| ****
TCC Curve
| ****
(Label displaying the VacuFuse II interrupter’s protection curve)
| ****
●
DANGER
****| The VacuFuse II Self-Resetting Interrupter operates at high voltage Failure to observe the precautions below will result in serious personal injury or death
Some of these precautions may differ from your company’s operating procedures and rules Where a discrepancy exists, follow your company’s operating procedures and rules
1 QUALIFIED PERSONS Access to the VacuFuse training and practiceWhen energized or installed II Self-Resetting Interrupter must be restricted only near energized lines, contacts should be considered to qualified persons See the “Qualified Persons” live until tested and grounded The VacuFuse II section on page 2 interrupter can be operated using Loadbuster®—
2 SAFETY PROCEDURES Always follow safeThe S&C Loadbreak Tool attached to a conventional operating procedures and rules insulated hotstick or S&C Universal Pole
3 PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT Always MAINTAINING PROPER CLEARANCE Always
use suitable protective equipment, such as rubber maintain proper clearance from energized gloves, rubber mats, hard hats, safety glasses, and components
flash clothing, in accordance with safe operating 8 DO NOT DISASSEMBLE the VacuFuse II procedures and rules Self-Resetting Interrupter There are no customer-
4 SAFETY LABELS Do not remove or obscure serviceable parts inside the VacuFuse II interrupter, any of the “DANGER,” “WARNING,” “CAUTION,” and disassembling the VacuFuse II interrupter will or “NOTICE” labels and tags Remove tags ONLY void the warranty if instructed to do so
9 VACUUM INTERRUPTER POSITION Always 5 ENERGIZED COMPONENTS Always consider all confirm the Open/Closed position of the VacuFuse parts live until de-energized, tested, and grounded II Self-Resetting Interrupter’s vacuum interrupter by observing the POSITION indicator on the bottom of 6 OPERATING TOOLS To close a VacuFuse II Self- the unit The manual operating lever will not move Resetting Interrupter, use a conventional insulated when the position of the vacuum interrupter changes hotstick or S&C Universal Pole and Pole Extension
fitted with a Talon™ Handling Tool or distribution prong An extendostick also can be used after proper
Shipping and Handling
Inspection
Examine the shipment for external evidence of damage as soon after receipt as
possible, preferably before removal from the carrier’s conveyance. Check the
bill of lading to make sure the listed shipping skids, crates, and containers
are present. If there is visible loss or damage:
-
Notify the delivering carrier immediately.
-
Ask for a carrier inspection.
-
Note the condition of shipment on all copies of the delivery receipt.
-
File a claim with the carrier.
If concealed damage is discovered: -
Notify the delivering carrier within 15 days of receipt of shipment.
-
Ask for a carrier inspection.
-
File a claim with the carrier.
Also, notify S&C Electric Company in all instances of loss and/or damage.
Packing
A complete VacuFuse II Self-Resetting Interrupter consists of the following
components:
- The VacuFuse II Self-Resetting Interrupter
- A present-production (“-R10”) Type XS Cutout Mounting and miscellaneous mounting hardware for securing the cutout mounting to the pole, if specified
Handling
NOTICE
DO NOT DROP the VacuFuse II Self-Resetting Interrupter or subject any of its
parts to undue stress during installation? Only remove a VacuFuse II Self-
Resetting Interrupter from the carton immediately before installation.
Storage
Single-pack VacuFuse II Self-Resetting Interrupters are not suitable for
outdoor storage because water can pool and damage the VacuFuse II
interrupters. After receipt, single-pack VacuFuse II Interrupters should be
stored indoors in their shipping packaging. Storing single-pack VacuFuse II
interrupters outdoors in the shipping packing will void the warranty.
Multi-pack VacuFuse II Self-Resetting Interrupters are shipped on pallets
banded together, and are packaged correctly for outdoor storage.
Returning
When returning the VacuFuse II Self-Resetting Interrupter for any reason,
place the VacuFuse II interrupter in the original shipping carton to prevent
damage during shipment. If additional shipping cartons are required, contact
the nearest S&C Sales Office, S&C Authorized Distributor, or S&C Headquarters.
Before Starting
VacuFuse II Interrupter Parts
Become familiar with the parts of the VacuFuse II Self-Resetting Interrupter.
See Figure 3.
Understanding the Closing Sequence
Note: The VacuFuse II Self-Resetting Interrupter is shipped from the factory
with the vacuum interrupter in the Open position.
After closing the VacuFuse II Self-Resetting Interrupter into the cutout
mounting, the CHARGING LED will blink at a 1-second interval as long as there
is sufficient voltage present at the cutout mounting and the vacuum
interrupter is open.
The READY TO CLOSE LED will steadily illuminate when the VacuFuse II Self-
Resetting Interrupter has harvested enough energy to close the vacuum
interrupter and when the manual operating lever is in the Down position.
The VacuFuse II Self-Resetting Interrupter requires 45 ± 10 seconds to harvest
enough energy to close the vacuum interrupter.
There are two ways to close the vacuum interrupter:
Option 1 – Automatic Delayed Close
Place the manual operating lever into the Up position prior to closing the
unit into the cutout mounting, or less than 35 seconds after the CHARGING LED
has begun blinking. When closed into the cutout mounting in this state, the
CHARGING LED will blink at a 1-second interval if there is sufficient voltage
present at the cutout mounting and the vacuum interrupter is open. The unit
will automati-cally close the vacuum interrupter after 45 ± 10 seconds.
Option 2 – Manual Close
Place the manual operating lever into the Down position prior to closing the
unit into the cutout mounting, or less than 35 seconds after the CHARGING LED
has begun blinking.
Wait until the READY TO CLOSE LED is solidly lit. At that time, the unit can
be closed manually by moving the manual operating lever to the Up position.
Three seconds after the lever is moved to the Up position, the vacuum
interrupter will close.
Understanding the LED Indicators and POSITION Indicator
LED Indicators
There are two LEDs on the base of the VacuFuse II interrupter. See Figure 4.
The CHARGING LED is white and indicates the VacuFuse II interrupter is
harvesting energy to close the vacuum
interrupter. When the VacuFuse II interrupter is powered, the CHARGING LED will start flashing at one flash per second as long as sufficient voltage is present at the cutout mounting and the vacuum interrupter is open. When full charge is achieved, the CHARGING LED will continue flashing, the READY TO CLOSE LED will illuminate, and the CHARGING LED will keep blinking.
NOTICE
At least 4 amperes of primary current must be flowing through the VacuFuse II
Self-Resetting Interrupter to power the control from its Sleep state. When
powered, the control will remain powered if the current through the device
does not fall below 4 amperes. If less than 4 amperes of primary current is
present, the VacuFuse II Self-Resetting Interrupter will still respond
properly to fault current.
POSITION Indicator
The POSITION indicator is located on the base of the VacuFuse II interrupter’s
housing. It contains a highly reflective visible red or green target that
indicates the position of the vacuum interrupter inside the VacuFuse II Self-
Resetting Interrupter. The target is green when the vacuum interrupter is in
the Open position and red when the vacuum interrupter is in the Closed
position. See Figure 5 and Figure 6.
NOTICE
Catalog number option “-J1” reverses the colors of the POSITION indicator to
red for the Open position and green for the Closed position. This option is
available to utilities that require reversed colors on their system.
Do not refer to the position of the manual operating lever to know the position of the vacuum interrupter. When the VacuFuse II interrupter trips in response to a fault, the lever does not move, leaving the lever in the Up position when the vacuum interrupter is in the Open position. Always observe the POSITION indicator to know the position of the VacuFuse II interrupter’s vacuum interrupter.
Installation
Installing the Cutout Mounting
If a VacuFuse II interrupter is ordered without a cutout mounting, proceed to
the “Installing a VacuFuse II Interrupter into the Cutout Mounting” section on
page 13.
Complete the following steps to install the cutout mounting for the VacuFuse
II Self-Resetting Interrupter:
STEP 1. Attach the VacuFuse II interrupter cutout mounting to a suitable
mounting bracket, as illustrated in Figure 7. Tighten the carriage bolt nut
until snug but loose enough to permit pivot adjustment. Note the placement of
the external-tooth lockwasher between the mounting bracket and the center
insert of the mounting.
Note: A mounting bracket suitable for crossarm, pole, or wall mounting is
furnished only if specified through the addition of suffix “-B” or “-C” to the
VacuFuse II interrupter catalog number.
STEP 2. Pivot the mounting to a position that will provide maximum ease of
operation and then securely tighten the carriage-bolt nut.
STEP 3. Make electrical connections. When using aluminum conductors, be sure
to wire-brush them and apply a coating of oxidation inhibitor before inserting
them into the mounting’s connectors.
Installing a VacuFuse II Interrupter into the Cutout Mounting
WARNING
Provide training to line crews on the use of both a hotstick and an
extendostick before installing or operating the VacuFuse II Self-Resetting
Interrupter. The VacuFuse II interrupter is different from other cutout-
mounted devices. Failure to properly handle a VacuFuse II interrupter with a
hotstick and/or an extendostick may lead to serious injury or death.
Complete the following steps to install a VacuFuse II inter-rupter into a cutout mounting:
STEP 1 If using an existing S&C cutout mountingor other approved cutout mounting: Visually inspect the cutout mounting for damage or excessive wear, particularly in the upper and lower contact areas. If ANY damage is visible, replace the cutout mounting before proceeding. DO NOT install and/or energize a VacuFuse II Self-Resetting Interrupter into a damaged cutout mounting.
STEP 2 Installation Using Insulated Gloves:
With the manual operating lever in the Down position, insert the VacuFuse II
Self-Resetting Interrupter into a 110-kV BIL or a 125/150-kV BIL-rated
mounting with gloved hands, as shown in Figure 8.
STEP 3 Installation using the Talon™ Handling Tool: Attach a Talon Handling Tool to a short hotstick. Insert the curled prong of the Talon tool into the lifting eye of the trunnion, and raise the VacuFuse II interrupter into the mounting. Rotate the hotstick counterclockwise 180 degrees to disengage it. See Figure 9.
Closing the VacuFuse II Interrupter into the Cutout Mounting
Complete the following steps to close a VacuFuse II Self-Resetting Interrupter
into its mounting:
NOTICE
Read the “Understanding the Closing Sequence” section on page 10 before
closing the VacuFuse II Self-Resetting Interrupter into its cutout mounting.
- STEP 1 Confirm the VacuFuse II Self-Resetting Interrupter is in the Open position by viewing its POSITION indicator. See the “Understanding the LED Indicators and POSITION indicator” section on page 10 for more information. Place the manual operating lever in the correct position for the closing sequence desired. See the “Understanding the Closing Sequence” section on page 10.
- STEP 2 Stand firmly in front of and in line with the cutout mounting. Do not operate standing directly underneath the VacuFuse II Self-Resetting Interrupter. If using an extendostick, stand from 6 to 10 feet (1.8 to 3.1 m) away from the pole.
- STEP 3 Insert the straight prong of a Talon Handling Tool or a distribution prong into the pull ring.
- STEP 4 Swing the VacuFuse II interrupter to within approximately 45 degrees of the fully Closed position, as shown in Figure 10.
- STEP 5 While firmly gripping the stick, drive the VacuFuse II interrupter closed with forward force. Maintain the forward force until the interrupter properly closes and latches into the cutout mounting.
- STEP 6 Disengage the prong from the pull-ring, taking care to avoid pulling the VacuFuse II interrupter open.
If the VacuFuse II Self-Resetting Interrupter Has Dropped Open
WARNING
The VacuFuse II Self-Resetting Interrupter is designed to protect distribution
transformers from internal and external fault current. A VacuFuse II Self-
Resetting Interrupter found in the Open and Drop Out position should not be
closed until the cause of the fault current has been determined and repaired.
Closing without repairing the fault could result in equipment damage, injury,
or death.
After responding to an overcurrent event, the VacuFuse II interrupter’s vacuum
interrupter will open and the POSITION indicator will show a green target. If
the over-current event persists after the reclosing event, the unit will lock
out and drop out from the cutout mounting.
Note: Non-reclosing VacuFuse II interrupters will lock out and drop out from
the cutout mounting every time the device responds to an overcurrent event.
Follow these steps if the VacuFuse II Self-Resetting Interrupter has operated
and is in the Open and Drop Out position:
- STEP 1 Remove the VacuFuse II Self-Resetting Interrupter from its mounting, if required by utility practice, following the steps in the “Removing the VacuFuse II Interrupter from the Cutout Mounting” section starting on page 18.
- STEP 2 Determine and resolve the cause of the fault.
- STEP 3 After the cause of the fault has been determined and after any necessary repairs have been completed, install the VacuFuse II Self-Resetting Interrupter and close it into the mounting follow-ing the steps described in the “Installation” section starting on page 12.
Operation
If Maintenance Is to Be Performed on the Transformer
Follow these steps if maintenance is to be performed on the transformer:
-
STEP 1 Open the vacuum interrupter inside the VacuFuse II Self-Resetting Interrupter by moving the manual operating lever to the Down position firmly using the straight prong of the Talon tool or a distribution prong. See Figure 11.
-
STEP 2 After the VacuFuse II Self-Resetting Interrupter opens and drops out (after approximately 1 minute and 45 seconds), remove the unit from its mounting, if required by utility practice. Follow the steps in the “Removing the VacuFuse II Interrupter from the Cutout Mounting” section starting on page 18. This creates a visible “open gap” showing the transformer is isolated from the feeder. Depending on your utility’s standard practices, additional grounds may be required.
-
STEP 3 Follow your utility’s standard practice for performing transformer maintenance. After any necessary maintenance or repairs have been completed, install the VacuFuse II Self-Resetting Interrupter and close it into the mounting follow-ing the steps described in the “Installation” section starting on page 12.
-
The VacuFuse II Self-Resetting Interrupter will “drop out” of the cutout mounting after one minute when the vacuum interrupter is in the Open position and the READY TO CLOSE LED is lit.
-
To Open: Pull the yellow manual operating lever down firmly using the straight prong of the Talon tool or a distri-bution prong. Remove the tool right away. The vacuum interrupter inside the VacuFuse II interrupter will open, and the POSITION indicator will show the green target. After one minute and 45 seconds of the vacuum interrupter in the Open position, the unit will drop out. See Figure 12.
-
To Close: Push the pull-ring of the yellow manual oper-ating lever up firmly using the straight prong of the Talon tool or a distribution prong. The vacuum interrupter inside the VacuFuse II interrupter will close after 45 seconds of sufficient voltage being present at the cutout mounting, and the POSITION indicator will show the red target. See Figure 13. If the VacuFuse II interrupter is inadvertently closed into a fault, the vacuum interrupter will trip open independently of any force still applied to the manual oper-ating lever.
-
To Reset the Manual Operating Lever After Manually Closing into Fault Current: When the VacuFuse II interrupter trips in response to a fault, the lever does not move, leaving the lever in the Up position when the vacuum interrupter is open. The lever can be “reset” by operating it to the Down position while the vacuum interrupter is open. When the lever is in the Up position, the interrupter will automatically close the next time it is pushed into the cutout mounting.
-
Note: After the interrupter drops open (either because of a permanent fault or moving the manual operating lever to the Down position and waiting for the unit to drop open), it is necessary to wait at least 20 seconds before closing the interrupter into the cutout mounting again. If the inter-rupter is closed into the cutout mounting immediately after a permanent fault, it will drop-out without closing. This happens because of the interrupter interpreting that it never dropped out from the cutout mounting.
Removing the VacuFuse II Interrupter from the Cutout Mounting
WARNING
DO NOT attempt to remove a VacuFuse II Self-Resetting Interrupter from its
cutout mounting with the vacuum interrupter in the Closed position. The vacuum
interrupter is in the Closed position when the POSITION indicator at the base
of the VacuFuse II interrupter displays a red target. Removing the VacuFuse II
interrupter from its cutout mounting with the vacuum interrupter in the Closed
position may cause arcing, equipment damage, serious injury, or death.
Complete the following steps to remove the VacuFuse II interrupter from its cutout mounting:
-
STEP 1 Open the vacuum interrupter inside the VacuFuse II interrupter by pulling down on the yellow manual operating lever. Confirm the POSITION indicator at the base of the VacuFuse II interrupter displays a green target.
-
STEP 2 Wait one minute and 45 seconds until the VacuFuse II Self-Resetting Interrupter drops out.
If the VacuFuse II Self-Resetting Interrupter stays in its cutout mounting, confirm the POSITION indicator at the base of the VacuFuse II interrupter displays a green target. Use the troubleshooting guide on page 23 to determine the cause of the unit remaining in the cutout mounting and the appropriate action to take. -
STEP 3 Removal Using Gloved Hands: Remove the VacuFuse II Self-Resetting Interrupter from its cutout mounting with gloved hands, as shown in Figure 14.
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STEP 4 Removal Using the Talon Handling Tool:
Attach a Talon Handling Tool to a short hotstick. Insert the curled prong of the Talon tool into the lifting eye of the trunnion, and raise the VacuFuse II interrupter out of the mounting. See Figure 9 on page 13.
Operation Using Loadbuster®—The S &C
Loadbreak Tool
If the VacuFuse II Self-Resetting Interrupter is in its cutout mounting with
the vacuum interrupter in the Closed position and operating the manual
operating lever to the Open position does not work, or the VacuFuse II
interrupter is to be removed from its cutout mounting in the Closed position
for any other reason, it may be safely removed using S&C’s Loadbuster tool.
Following an opening operation with the Loadbuster tool, the VacuFuse II
interrupter can be lifted out of the mounting with gloved hands.
WARNING
DO NOT attempt to open a VacuFuse II Self-Resetting Interrupter that is in the
Closed position without using a loadbreak tool such as S&C’s Loadbuster tool.
An arc started by opening a VacuFuse II Self-Resetting Interrupter under load
without a loadbreak tool can cause equipment damage, serious injury, or death.
WARNING
DO NOT attempt to use a Loadbuster tool to open a VacuFuse II Self-Resetting
Interrupter while climbing the pole. Engagement of a Loadbuster tool in this
position is difficult and may result in improper opening operation, leading to
arcing, faults, equipment damage, serious injury, or death.
WARNING
Stay at least 5 feet (152 cm) below the VacuFuse II interrupter when operating
the Loadbuster tool from a bucket truck. Operating the Loadbuster tool from
less than 5 feet away is difficult and may result in an improper opening
operation, leading to arcing, faults, equipment damage, serious injury, or
death.
Follow these steps when using S&C’s Loadbuster tool:
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STEP 1 Check for proper resetting of the Loadbuster tool by e xtending the tool about 3 inches (76 mm) by hand. Throughout this travel, an increasing spring resistance should be felt.
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STEP 2 Fasten the Loadbuster tool to an S&C Universal Pole not less than 6 feet (183 cm) long (8 feet [244 cm] for catalog number 5400R3) with the frame of the tool in line with the pole. As shown in Figures 15 and 16, the Loadbuster tool must be attached so it reaches across the front of the VacuFuse II Self-Resetting Interrupter, and the Loadbuster tool’s anchor must be hooked to the attachment hook on the far side of the VacuFuse II interrupter.
The Loadbuster tool should never be attached with its anchor hooked on the closest side of the VacuFuse II interrupter, as shown in Figures 17 and 18 on page 21. Attaching the tool in this manner will not only obscure the operator’s line of vision, but it could also result in bending stress on the tool, causing improper disengagement. -
STEP 3 Swing the Loadbuster tool towa rd the VacuFuse II Self-Resetting Interrupter and pass the Loadbuster pull-ring hook through the pull-ring on the VacuFuse II Self-Resetting Interrupter. The pull-ring latch will deflect and, upon complete entry of the pull-ring, will spring back, locking the Loadbuster tool to the pull-ring. The Loadbuster tool is now connected across the upper contacts of the VacuFuse II Self-Resetting Interrupter, as shown in Figure 19 on page 22.
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STEP 4 To open the circuit, operate the Loadbuster tool with a firm, steady pull until it is extended to its maximum length. A downward pull to open the VacuFuse II Self-Resetting Interrupter extends the Loadbuster tool and charges the tool’s internal spring. At a predetermined point in the opening stroke, a trigger inside the tool will trip, releasing the charged spring, separating the internal contacts and interrupting the circuit.
Successful operation is independent of the speed with which the VacuFuse II Self-Resetting Interrupter is opened. Avoid jerking and hesi-tation. The resetting latch will keep it open. Generally, there is no indication of circuit inter-ruption; the only sound is that of the Loadbuster tool tripping.
WARNING
Careless manipulation of the Loadbuster tool can decrease the open gap to the
point where a flashover could occur. This can result in arcing, electrical
shock, serious injury, or death.
- STEP 5 To detach the Loadbuster tool after circuit interruption, first raise it slightly and disengage the anchor from the attachment hook.
- STEP 6 Bring the VacuFuse II Self-Resetting Interrupter toward the Drop Out position. Then, remove the Loadbuster tool from the pull-ring by rotating the pole. This will deflect the pull-ring latch to release the pull-ring. Because the VacuFuse II Self-Resetting Interrupter will drop fully open from gravity, it may be preferable to remove the Loadbuster tool by “rolling” it off both the attach-ment hook and pull-ring at the same time by twisting the pole after the Loadbuster tool has been tripped and fully extended. To perform this operation smoothly, always roll the Loadbuster tool so that it rotates in an upward direction.
- STEP 7 To reset the Loadbuster tool for the next operation, hold it as shown in Figure 20. Extend the tool slightly and lift the resetting latch with your thumb. With the latch up, telescope the tool completely so the trigger can reset itself. Depress the telescoping tube until the orange paint on the inner tube assembly is no longer visible. Check for proper resetting by extending the tool about 3 inches (76 mm). Throughout this travel, an increasing spring resistance should be felt.
Note: When the VacuFuse II Self-Resetting Interrupter is opened with a Loadbuster tool, the vacuum interrupter inside the VacuFuse II interrupter will not be triggered open and will remain closed.
Troubleshooting
Unable to Close a VacuFuse II Interrupter into its Mounting
If a VacuFuse II interrupter’s vacuum interrupter is in the Open position, the
unit is dropped out, and it cannot be successfully closed into the cutout
mounting, then the VacuFuse II interrupter has reached its End-of-Life state.
Remove the unit from its cutout mounting and return it to S&C Electric Company
for service.
In Mounting With Contacts Open
There are three scenarios in which a VacuFuse II inter-rupter may remain in
its cutout mounting with the vacuum interrupter open:
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The VacuFuse II interrupter does not have sufficient voltage present in the cutout mounting to charge and drop out. In this case, return of voltage to the cutout mounting should cause the CHARGING LED to blink, and the unit will drop open after approximately 45 seconds.
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The VacuFuse II interrupter is stuck in the cutout mounting and is powered. In this case, with sufficient voltage the CHARGING LED will continue to blink. The VacuFuse II interrupter will repeatedly attempt to drop out while voltage is present. If it does not successfully drop out within 3 hours, the unit will go into its End-of-Life state.
To prevent premature end of life, use Loadbuster®—The S&C Loadbreak Tool to operate the VacuFuse II interrupter into the Dropout position. Refer to the “Operation Using Loadbuster®—The S&C Loadbreak Tool” section on page 19. -
The VacuFuse II interrupter is stuck in the cutout mounting and is in Abnormal mode. In this case, check for voltage in the cutout mounting.
If sufficient voltage is present in the cutout mounting and the CHARGING LED is not blinking, the unit is in Abnormal mode. Remove the VacuFuse II interrupter from the cutout mounting following the steps in the “Operation Using Loadbuster®—The S&C Loadbreak Tool” section on page 19. Then, return the unit to S&C Electric Company for service.
If there is insufficient voltage in the cutout mounting, wait for power to be restored to the cutout mounting. Then, test for the three scenarios described above.
Vacuum Interrupter Cannot Be Closed
If the VacuFuse II interrupter can be closed into the cutout mounting and
sufficient voltage is present in the mounting—but the vacuum interrupter
cannot be closed through either of the two closing methods described in the
“Understanding the Closing Sequence” section on page 10—then the VacuFuse II
interrupter is in Abnormal mode. After removing the unit from the cutout
mounting, return it to S&C Electric Company for service.