Measuring earth resistance

Earth resistance is a key parameter in determining the efficiency of earthing systems. In this article we look at the measurement of earth resistance.

1

A few fundamentals

1.1

Earth resistance and earth impedance

The efficiency of an earthing system is principally determined by its impedance ZE. As can be seen from figure ➊, the earth impedance can be expressed as in equation (1): Z E = RE2 + X E2

(1)

RE = RD + RM + RC

(2)

1.3

As shown in equation (2), the earth resistance RE is the sum of the dissipation resistance RD, the resistance of the metal conductor that serves as the earth electrode RM and the resistance of the earthing conductor RC, which runs between the main earthing busbar and the earth electrode. The dissipation resistance RD is the resistance between the earth electrode and the surrounding soil. The reactance of the earthing system XE can be expressed as: RE =

UM

(3)

I

with XM reactance of the metallic earth electrode XC reactance of the earthing conductor. For AC supply current the reactance of the earthing conductor is only significant in the case of extended horizontal earthing strips or long earth rods. In all other cases, the difference between earth impedance and earth resistance is so small that frequently no distinction is made between these two quantities. The relevant industrial standards also treat earth impedance and earth resistance as identical. As earthing measurements are carried out using an AC supply, it is actually the earth impedance that is measured. If the measurement frequency is greater than 50 Hz, a slightly larger earth impedance is displayed. However, overestimating the earth impedance is not a problem, as it errs on the side of safety.

1.2

tems in low-voltage installations ([1], sections 411.5 and 411.6; [2]); • Joint earthing system for high-voltage protective earthing and functional earthing in transformer substations; • Earthing system for the neutral earthing reactor of a medium-voltage distribution system. In the case of lightning protection systems, earthing measurements must be made even when there is no requirement to comply with a specific value. The results of repeat tests must be compared with those of earlier measurements.

Requirements for earthing measurements

Earthing measurements are necessary whenever compliance with a specified earth resistance or a particular earth impedance is required, as is the case in the following earthing systems: • Protective earth for TT and IT earthing sys-

Standards for measuring instruments

The standards contain the requirements that have to be met by the manufacturers of measuring equipment. For users, these standards serve only informational purposes. In low-voltage systems earthing measurements must be made using equipment that complies with the VDE 0413 standards (VDE: Verband der Elektrotechnik Elektronik Informationstechnik e.V./ engl.: Association for Electrical, Electronic & Information Technologies) (see [3], sec. 61.1). All equipment must comply with the specifications in IEC 61557-1:2007 [4]. In addition, equipment must also comply with the following standards depending on the type of device or measuring method for which it is used: • IEC 61557-5:2007 Equipment for measuring resistance to earth [5] • IEC 61557-6:2007 Equipment for testing, measuring or monitoring protective measures involving residual current devices [6] • IEC 61557-10:2007 Combined measuring equipment [7]. Equipment manufactured in accordance with earlier editions of the VDE 0413 series of standards can of course also be used.

Avoiding hazards and measuring errors

The process of measurement and any accompanying procedures (e.g. breaking standard connections and making non-standard connections) must not pose a safety hazard ([3], sec. 61.1.3). The magnitude of the test voltage or the test current must be limited (see sections 3.1 and 4.1). Before breaking a connection that is required for electric shock prevention, the entire power installation must be disconnected from the supply and locked out to prevent it being switched on again. Any measurement that involves breaking connections (e.g. opening the inspection joint of a lightning protection system) must never be carried out during a storm or whenever a storm could be expected. Failure to comply could be hazardous, particularly for the person performing the operation. After the measurement has been completed, any connections that were broken must be properly restored. If the test current is split so that part of it runs parallel to the earth electrode being measured, the earth resistance displayed by the meter will be too small. The person conducting the measurement must therefore be aware of everything that is connected to the earth electrode under test [8]. Measurements must only be carried out by competent persons.

1.6

Taking the effects of weather into account

The specific resistance of soil decreases with increasing temperature and increasing soil moisture levels. Whereas these effects are of minor consequence for foundation earth electrodes in buildings with a basement or for long (vertical) rod electrodes, they have to be taken into account in the case of horizontal surface earth electrodes. Measurements made during cold, dry weather remain unaffected, but measurement data recorded in warm weather or after a rain shower have to be adjusted upward.

ZE

ϕ RD

1.4

Selecting the right measuring equipment

It is not enough for users to simply follow the (frequently unclear) instructions provided by the manufacturer, they need to be aware of and understand the measuring method they want to apply. Measuring instruments that do not make it clear which measuring method is being applied should not be used. Before purchasing equipment, users should request technical descriptions of the devices of interest as well as their performance data and, if possible, instruction manuals, and should assess the equipment on the basis of this documentation.

XE

E. Hering, Dresden (Germany)

1.5

XM XC

Measuring earth resistance

RM RC RE

➊ Vector diagram of impedance in an earthing system

Rd dissipation resistance; RE resistance of the earthing system (earth resistance); RM resistance of the metal conductor that acts as the earth electrode; RC resistance of the earthing conductor (e.g. connection lug, cable); XE reactance of the earthing system; XM reactance of the metal conductor that acts as the earth electrode; XC reactance of the earthing conductor; ZE earth impedance; ϕ impedance angle.

1

1.7

Assessing measurement results

Earth resistance meters are not error free. Measurement errors can occur even if the conditions specified in the relevant standards and instrument instruction manuals are complied with and even in the absence of interference effects. The magnitude of an instrument’s operating error is listed on its technical specification sheet or in its instruction manual. In those methods of measuring earth resistance that draw current directly from the power source (see sections 2.4 and 4), additional measurement uncertainty can be caused by random current and voltage fluctuations in the supply during the measurement. Examples of possible operator errors include: • failure to take account of connections detrimental to the measurement process • connecting the instrument leads incorrectly or selecting the wrong setting on the selector switch of the instrument • inserting the auxiliary earth electrode or probe in the wrong location • meter reading errors • failure to implement measures to reduce systematic measurement errors. Results from first-time measurements should be compared with the project specifications, results of repeat tests should be compared with those of earlier measurements. If significant differences are apparent, the possible causes of the discrepancy should be determined. The influence of weather on the measurement results and how this can be taken into account is discussed in section 1.6.

1.8

Test report

Measuring earth resistance is only one of several tests that have to be performed on earthing

Table

systems [9]. In general, the results from all the tests are contained in a single test report. The measurements performed and any accompanying action that is taken must be described precisely so that they can be reproduced at a later date. Information that must be provided includes: • the measurement method used • the type of measuring instrument used • the positions of any selector switches, if relevant • details of any connections that were broken or made for the purposes of the measurement. The results of the measurement must be stated clearly and unambiguously. This also applies to any weather-related adjustments of the results that may have been made. The test report is required by • [3], section 61.1.6 concerning earthing systems in low-voltage networks • [10], annex E, section E.7.2.5 concerning lightning protection systems • both standards apply if the earthing system serves both purposes.

2 2.1

Overview of measurement methods for RE Principles

There is a wide degree of variation in the internal circuitry of the measuring instruments used and the layout and arrangement of the external measuring circuits. However, a common feature of all the methods is that they determine the earth impedance by measuring the voltage across the earthing system for a known test current. Leads that carry the test current outside of

the instrument are shown in red in the diagrams. Known measurement methods are listed in table ➊. The underlying circuit principles are shown in figures À to Õ. The unusually long names given here to the various methods ensure that the methods can be distinguished unambiguously. Although there are clear differences between the individual measurement methods, no one particular method can be said to be ideal. Each method has its own particular disadvantages such as limited applicability, electric shock hazard, larger measurement errors or requiring greater time and effort to complete. The various advantages and disadvantages of the individual measurement techniques are described in more detail in sections 3 and 4. All of the methods discussed must only be carried out by competent persons exercising due care and attention. In those methods that do not draw current directly from the supply (columns  1 to 6 in table  ➊), the measurement frequency used will be at least 5 Hz above or below the frequencies 16.7 Hz, 50 Hz and integer multiples thereof. This prevents interference from supply frequency currents (‘interference currents’) that can falsify measurement results. In those methods that do draw current directly from the supply (columns 7 to 9 in table ➊), it is of course essential that the supply frequency and measuring frequency are identical. This means that the interference effects mentioned above cannot be ruled out when such methods are used. However, these methods are simpler to perform and offer advantages in terms of their applicability.

➊ Overview of earth resistance measuring methods 1

4 5 6 7 Designation based on internal circuitry Balanced-bridge methods Current-voltage methods Distinction based on whether method draws current directly from supplyv) yes no Distinction based on use of probe and/or auxiliary electrodew) probe and probe, no no probe, no probe and probe, no no probe, no probe auxiliary auxiliary auxiliary auxiliary auxiliary auxiliary electrode electrode electrodex), y) electrode electrode electrodex) (‘stakeless method’) Figure 2 3b)z) 3c) 3a) 3b) 3c) 4a) Detailed description in section 2.2 3.2 3.3 3.4 4.3 Detailed schematic of measurement method 5 6 7 11 v) For current-voltage techniques, this distiction is included in the method name. w) All methods include this distinction as part of the method name. x) Measures resistance of conductor loop via earth return path. y) An earth resistance meter does not need to be inserted into the earthing conductor if a clamp-on resistance meter is conductor. z) In the case of balance-bridge methods, figure only applies to the exterior circuit.

2

2

3

8

PEN or neutral conductor instead of probe

9

no probex)

4b)

4c)

4.4

4.5

12

13

placed around the earthing

L1 L2 L3 PEN

Earth resistance meter UM RE = ––– I

REC ∼

Earth resistance meter

A

PSAC

A

V

I

UM

A

V

UM

ES

S

H

E

REC

RE

RF

S

H

E

I3 = 0

UM RE = ––– I

RE

PSAC

U1

ES

ES

ES

S

H

N

U2

REC ∼

I3 = 0

I1

S

H

Probe Auxiliary Earth earth electrode electrode a)

RF

RE

RE < Rloop UM Rloop = ––– I

Probe Functional Earth earth electrode electrode

Functional Earth earth electrode electrode

b)

c)

à Current-voltage methods that do not draw current directly from the power supply

RE

Earth electrode

UM

V

E

E

I

R2

I2

I1

REC ∼

PSAC

I

I1

CT

REC ∼

PSAC

tr = I2 : I1 = 0.1; 1; 10; 100

L1 L2 L3 PEN

Probe

Auxiliary earth electrode

a) with probe and auxiliary electrode; b) with probe, but without an auxiliary electrode; c) no probe, no auxiliary electrode (measures resistance of conductor loop via earth return path). I test current; Rloop loop resistance; UM test voltage.

À The balanced-bridge method

REC rectifier; I1 test (or measuring) current; I2 Reference current; I3 current whose magnitude is zero when bridge is balanced; C capacitor; N null detector; RE earth resistance being measured; R2 reference resistance; CT current transformer; U1 Voltage across earth electrode under test; U2 reference voltage; tr transformation ratio of the CT; PSAC AC power supply.

2.2

UM RE = ––– I Earth resistance meter

UM RE = ––– I

L1 L2 L3 PEN or N

UM RE = ––– I

L

L

L

UM

The balanced-bridge method

The balanced-bridge method as described by Behrend is one of the techniques for measuring earth resistance that does not involve drawing current directly from supply. Earth resistance meters based on this method are no longer manufactured, as other more user-friendly instruments have now been developed for the same sorts of applications. These new meters use the so-called current-voltage method, which also does not involve current being drawn from the supply. Nevertheless the balanced-bridge method is described here because it is of fundamental importance to the development of earth resistance measurement techniques and because meters based on this method are still in use. The measurement circuit for the balancedbridge method is shown in figure À. The method involves driving an auxiliary earth electrode1) and a probe2) temporarily into the soil. When the earth meter is in its balanced state, there is no current flowing in the probe. The resistance to earth of the probe has therefore no influence on the measurement result; it simply lowers measurement sensitivity. Information on the alignment and separation of the auxiliary

U0 UM

UM

I V

S

A

V S

E

UM

I A

I A

V S

E

E UE

RF

Probe Functional earth electrode a)

RE

Earth electrode

RF

Functional earth electrode b)

RE

Earth electrode

RE

RF

Functional earth electrode c)

Earth electrode U0 – UM Rloop < –––––––– I RE < Rloop UE < U0 – UM

Õ Current-voltage methods that draw current directly from the power supply a) with probe; b) using PEN conductor or neutral conductor instead of probe; c) no probe (measures resistance of conductor loop via earth return path); U0 conductor-to-earth voltage

3

2.3

Other measurement methods without supply current

Another group of methods for measuring earth resistance that do not draw current directly from the supply are the so-called current-voltage techniques illustrated in figure Ã. The earth resistance RE is determined from the voltage UM that appears across the earth electrode and across the sockets ES and S, and the measured current I. RE =

UM I

(4)

Figure à simply illustrates the principle of the measurement and shows only a small part of the complex circuitry within the earth resistance meter. Usually, the voltage UM and current I are not shown separately and the meter only displays a digital reading of the earth resistance RE. If the AC supply source PSAC is a

4

constant-current generator, the earth resistance can be displayed directly on the voltage meter. When the balanced-bridge method was first developed, the only exterior circuit known was that shown in figures À and Ãa). It was therefore usual to consider the circuitry inside the meter and the exterior circuit as a single entity. However, as indicated in columns 2 and 3 in table À, the same meter can be used for measurements with the exterior circuits shown in figures Ãb) and Ãc). Equally, the earth resistance meters used for the current-voltage methods that do not draw current directly from the supply can be used like the meters designed with the balanced-bridge circuit. The internal circuits can therefore be freely combined with the exterior circuits.

UM RE = ––– I Earth resistance meter

REC ∼ PSAC I

UM

A

V

E

ES

Earth electrode

S

H

Auxiliary earth electrode

Probe

RE

Measurement methods with current from the supply

3 3.1

Current-voltage method that draws no supply current Earth resistance meters

The four connection sockets are labelled as shown in figure Œ. Sockets for the supply current path and for current measurement: • E – Earth electrode (test object) • H – Auxiliary earth electrode1) Sockets for the voltage measurement path: • ES – Earth electrode (or the probe located close to the earth electrode when measuring the soil resistivity) • S – Probe2) Normally when measuring the resistance to earth, the sockets E and ES are connected to one another via a removable link or via a contact strip within the meter’s selector switch as this ensures that the earth electrode under test is connected to both the current and voltage measurement paths. If, in addition, a jumper is placed between sockets H and S, the earth resistance meter can be used as a simple ohmmeter. The frequency of the AC supply PSAC is at least 5  Hz above or below the frequencies 16.7 Hz and 50 Hz and any integer multiples thereof. Typically, the supply frequency is in the range 41–140 Hz, though in some meters a higher frequency is used. Some earth resistance meters also offer the option of selecting the frequency. A number of meters with automatic frequency control (AFC) automatically switch to that frequency offering the lowest level of interference.

0.2 s 0.2 s s RE'

approximately flat section RE'2

These methods can only be used in networks with a direct connection to earth. As shown in figure  Õ, the measurement involves drawing the test current from the phase conductor of the supply system. The meters used in this type of measurement are primarily designed for testing electrical safety systems involving residual current devices. The meters are generally connected to the supply via a flexible power lead and an earthed safety plug.

RE'

2.4

RE'1

earth electrode and the probe is provided in section 3. The AC power source PSAC is located between the connection point for the earth electrode under test (socket  E) and that for the auxiliary earth electrode (socket H). The AC source is connected in series with the primary winding of a current transformer CT. Connected to the secondary winding of the current transformer is a variable voltage divider. The setting chosen for the left part of the divider R2 (‘reference resistance’) is displayed on the scale on the voltage divider’s control unit. A null detector N with a rectifier REC in series is located between the variable tap point of the voltage divider and the connection point for the probe (socket S). The rectifier is driven by the AC power source. A capacitor C prevents any DC current from flowing across the probe. One end of the voltage divider is connected to the earth electrode being measured via the instrument sockets ES and E. The transformation ratio tr of the current transformer can be switched to achieve the required measurement range. When balanced, the current I3 in the probe is zero. The same current I1 therefore flows in the auxiliary earth electrode and in the earth electrode under test. Additionally, the voltages U2 (‘reference voltage’) and U1 are of the same size. The voltage U1 corresponds to the earth electrode voltage that drives the test current I1 in the earth resistance RE of the test object E, whereas U2 is the voltage drop that maintains the current I2 (‘reference current’) in the reference resistor R2. The potential drops obey Ohm’s law as expressed by the equations U1 = I1 · RE and U2 = I2 · R2. If the transformation ratio of the current transformer tr = 1:1, then I2 = I1 and the value of the earth resistance RE is equal to the selected reference resistance R2. The earth resistance can therefore be read off the voltage divider scale mentioned above. If another transformation ratio is used, this must be multiplied by the value of the reference resistance R2, i. e. RE = tr · R2.

Distance

ΠCurrent-voltage

methods that do not draw current directly from the power supply and that use a probe and an auxiliary earth electrode

I test current; RE earth resistance being measured; RE´ measured earth resistance; UM test voltage

To protect against electric shocks, the open-circuit test voltage generated by the meter must not exceed 50 V (r.m.s.) and 70 V (peak). In the case of earth resistance meters used on agricultural sites, these values must be halved. Alternatively, the short-circuit current must not exceed 3.5 mA r.m.s. and a peak value of 5  mA (see [5], sec. 4.5). If neither of these conditions are met, the meter must switch off automatically. The meter is powered either by a battery, a group of primary cells or a hand-driven generator, though the latter method is now rare. The meter must indicate whether the end-point voltage of the power supply is sufficient to maintain proper instrument function (see [4], sec. 4.3). When earth resistance is measured by a method that does not involve current being drawn directly from the supply, the earth resistance RE is computed as the quotient of the measured voltage UM that appears across the earth electrode (and across the meter sockets ES and S) and the measured current I (that flows through sockets E and H). Figure Œ only indicates the basic principle of the complex circuitry within

the meter. Usually, the voltage UM and current I are not shown separately and the meter only displays a digital reading of the earth resistance RE. If the AC supply source is a constant-current generator, there is no need to measure the current and calculate the quotient. In this case a voltage meter can be calibrated to display the earth resistance directly. Most meters are equipped with a switch for selecting the type of measuring circuit, the measurement frequency and/or the measurement range, and for switching the power on and off. Most meters also have a button that is used to initiate measurement. The earth resistance meter must also indicate that the resistance of the auxiliary earth electrode and the probe are within the specified limits (see [5], sec. 4.4). However, it is not advisable to rely too heavily on a warning signal, because by the time a warning signal has been issued, the limit may have been exceeded by a significant amount. User-friendly devices offer additional functions such as: • warning signal or automatic cut-out if too great an interference voltage is detected • warning signal or disabling of measurement function if test current is too small • display of test current (for monitoring purposes only when measurements made with a constant-current generator) • automatic measurement range selection • display hold function • data storage for transmitting or printing measurement results.

3.2

Methods using a probe and an auxiliary earth electrode

3.2.1 Principle

As shown in figure Œ, the earth electrode under test, an auxiliary earth electrode and the probe are connected to the earth resistance meter. The test current I flows through the earth electrode, the soil and the auxiliary earth electrode. The voltage UM that appears across the earth resistance RE also appears across the meter sockets ES and S. The earth resistance is displayed as the value of UM divided by I.

3.2.2 Earth electrode (test object) If socket E is connected to the beginning of the earthing conductor (at the main earthing terminal), the earthing conductor will be included in the measurement of the earth resistance. If, on the other hand, socket E is connected directly to the earth electrode, the resistance of the earthing conductor will not be included in the measurement. The difference, however, is usually slight. The resistance of the measuring leads will be included in the measurement. This will result in an overestimation of the earth resistance and thus yield a value that errs on the side of safety. To reduce the magnitude of the error, it is expedient to position the earth resistance meter close to the point of connection and to use a short measuring lead. The resistance of the

measuring lead can of course be measured and this value subtracted from the value displayed by the earth resistance meter. If the effect of the measuring lead’s resistance is to be avoided at all costs, the jumper linking sockets E and the ES must be removed and each socket connected to the earthing system by its own measuring lead. The earth electrode under test must not be connected to any other earth electrodes as this would falsify the result of the measurement. In the TN earthing systems found in consumer installations, the earthing conductor must be disconnected from the main earthing busbar as the latter is connected to the PEN conductor of the supply network. This is not required in TT systems as the main earthing busbar is not connected to the neutral conductor of the power supply network. If, nevertheless, the earthing conductor is disconnected, the entire system must be de-energized beforehand and locked out to prevent it being switched on again.

3.2.3 Auxiliary electrode1) The auxiliary earth electrode should be positioned as far away as possible from the earth electrode under test, so as to minimize the degree of overlap between the potential gradient areas (‘spheres of influence’) surrounding the two electrodes. The larger the electrodes, the farther apart they must be. As a rough guide, the minimum distance apart can be taken to be three times the depth of a rod earth electrode or the average diameter of a ring earth electrode. The figure of 40 m that is found in the documentation provided by some manufacturers can only be considered to be a rough average value. Whether the chosen distance is appropriate will be shown when the correct alignment and positioning of the electrodes is carried out (see sec. 3.2.4). The greater the resistivity of the soil, the longer the auxiliary electrode needs to be and the deeper it needs to be driven into the ground. If the resistance of the auxiliary earth electrode is too large, measurement errors can arise, because, for example, the constant current normally generated by the AC supply cannot then flow. In such cases, it can prove useful to saturate the area of ground being used for the measurement with water.

3.2.4 Probe2) As the internal resistance of the voltage measurement path is very large, the resistance of the probe and therefore the size of the probe is of minor importance. The preferred location of the probe is on the straight line between the earth electrode and the auxiliary earth electrode at a position where it has minimum interaction with the spheres of influence of the two electrodes (see diagram in figure Œ). If one were to carry out a series of measurements with different distances between the earth electrode and the probe the results would form a curve whose ends are relatively steep while the intermediate section of the curve is

flatter. If the distance between the earth electrode and the auxiliary electrode is large enough, the curve will have an approximately horizontal central section in which the measured resistance to earth is essentially independent of electrode separation. This central section must be determined by at least three measurements. The midpoint of the central section is not midway between the earth electrode and the auxiliary earth electrode, but lies closer to the auxiliary earth electrode as the spatial extent of the spheres of influence associated with the two earth electrodes differ. In general, the optimum separation between the earth electrode and the probe is about two thirds of the distance between the earth electrode and the auxiliary earth electrode3).

3.2.5 Limitations of method If no portion of the resistance vs. distance curve is approximately horizontal, then the distance between the earth electrode under test and the auxiliary earth electrode is too small. If the curve exhibits an unusual profile, buried metal installations (e. g. water pipes) are very probably influencing the measurement. In such conditions it is not possible to achieve usable results from the measurement. Measurement may be possible if the electrodes can be laid out perpendicular to their original direction or perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the buried metal installation or so that they run away from and not above the buried metal installation. It is also not possible to achieve reliable results if the earth electrode under test is surrounded by other earth electrodes, for example in areas with a high density of buildings. Furthermore measurement is impossible whenever the auxiliary earth electrode and the probe cannot be positioned in the right locations. In all such cases, another measurement technique must be selected.

3.3

Method using a probe but no auxiliary earth electrode

3.3.1 Principle

As shown in figure œ, the functional earth of the supply network acts as a replacement for the auxiliary earth electrode. It is extremely 1) In some publications the auxiliary electrode is also referred to as the outer test electrode, or current test stake. 2) In some publications the probe is also referred to as the inner test electrode, or voltage test stake. 3) Some manufacturers state that the distance between the earth electrode and the probe should be half the distance between the earth electrode and the auxiliary earth electrode. That is incorrect. Other companies recommend placing the probe at a distance from the earth electrode that is always 62 % of the separation between the earth and the auxiliary earth electrode. This method is thus sometimes referred to as the 62 % method. The 62 % mark generally gives a good approximation of the correct location. But the optimum position must always be determined by moving the probe to neighbouring positions.

5

important to ensure that the connection is not accidentally made to one of the phase conductors. In a TN system, the H socket of the meter has to be connected (for instance, via the earthing contact of a plug) to the protective earth (PE) conductor, which itself has been branched off the PEN conductor. The meter socket E is connected to the earthing conductor, which has to be disconnected from the main earthing busbar. Supply networks configured with the TT earthing system have a neutral conductor instead of the PEN conductor. This has to be treated as a live conductor even though it is connected to a functional earth. Applying this method of measuring earth resistance to a TT system would therefore involve connecting the earth resistance meter to the neutral conductor. The method is therefore not approved for use with TT systems.

L1 L2 L3 PEN PEN

L1 L2 L3 PEN PEN MEB

MEB

PE N

Earth resistance meter

Earth resistance meter

REC ∼

REC ∼

PSAC

PSAC I

I

UM

A ES

S

The method does not function in a TN system if the electrode being measured is strongly coupled or if it is connected via a metal conductor to another earth electrode that itself is connected to the PEN conductor. This would result in the test current flowing in the wrong path so that the display on the earth resistance meter would be smaller than the true value of the resistance to earth. This is discussed in more detail in section 3.4.2.

3.4

Method without a probe and an auxiliary earth electrode (‘stakeless method’)

RF

RE

Functional earth electrode

V

E

H

ES

S

H

EC

EC

3.3.2 Problems in the TN system

UM

A

V

E

PE N

UM RE = ––– I

Earth Probe electrode

œ

Current-voltage methods that do not draw current directly from the power supply and that use a probe but no auxiliary earth electrode

EC earthing conductor; MEB main earthing busbar; RB resistance to earth of the functional earth electrode

Rloop < RE RF

RE

Functional earth electrode

UM Rloop = ––– I Earth electrode

– Current-voltage methods that do not draw current directly from the power supply and that use neither a probe nor an auxiliary earth electrode (resistance of conductor loop via earth return path) Rloop loop resistance.

3.4.1 Principle

This method (illustrated in figure –) is an earth-loop resistance measurement because it involves measuring the resistance of a conductor loop via an earth return path. The S and H sockets of the earth resistance meter are connected together. The advantage of this method is that neither an auxiliary earth electrode nor a probe need to be used. In a TN system the earthing conductor (EC) is disconnected from the main earthing busbar (MEB) and the earth resistance meter is inserted between them. This method is not suitable for measurements on a consumer installations with a TT earthing system. The resistance measurement displayed on the meter includes the resistance to earth of the functional earth and the resistance of the PEN conductor. If they were accurately known, these values could be subtracted from the resistance displayed on the meter. However, they are difficult to determine, because the functional earth in a TN system comprises not only the functional earth electrode shown in figure –, it is also connected to numerous earths in the consumer installations of neighbouring buildings. The error that is introduced by measuring these additional resistances results in an overestimation of the earth resistance, yielding a value that errs on the side of safety.

6

3.4.2 Problems in TN systems The problem mentioned earlier in secton 3.3.2 can also arise when measuring earth resistance without an auxiliary earth electrode and without a probe. Some examples of configurations where problems can arise are shown in figure —. Temporary remedial measures include: • Disconnecting the metal connection between the earth electrodes as shown in figure —b). • Disconnecting the second earth electrode from the PEN conductor, if permitted by the owner. The residual influence of the second earth electrode on the earth resistance measurement is not a disadvantage, as it acts to improve the performance of the first earth electrode. More details can be found in reference [8].

3.5

Stakeless methods (no probe, no auxiliary earth electrode) using a clamp-on ohmmeter

This is a variation on the measurement method described in section 3.4. This technique differs from that shown in figure – in that instead of inserting an earth resistance meter into the earthing conductor, a clamp-on ohmmeter (COM) is placed around the earthing conductor (see figure “). The clamp-on ohmmeter contains both a current-to-voltage transformer (a voltage

inducing clamp, VIC) and a current transformer (a current measuring clamp CMC). Models available include: • Chauvin Arnoux Earth Clamps C.A  6410, C.A 6412 or C.A 64154); • Fluke Earth Ground Clamp Meter 16305). The meter displays the resistance calculated as the quotient of the voltage induced by the VIC in the earthing conductor and the resulting test current registered by the CMC. In this case the resistance is the loop resistance Rloop, or more precisely the loop impedance (see section  3.4.1). Another solution (no separate diagram provided) involves clamping two split-core current transformers around the earthing conductor, one of which functions like the voltage-inducing clamp VIC while the other corresponds to the current measuring clamp CMC that measures

4) Induced voltage: approx. 60 mV; frequency: 2403 Hz; inner diameter of clamp jaw: 32 mm. Data provided without warranty. 5) Induced voltage: approx.  30 mV; frequency: 1667 Hz; inner diameter of clamp jaw: 23 mm. Data provided without warranty. 6) On its own, the expression ‘selective earth measurement’ is ambiguous, as other earth resistance measurement techniques are also selective, e.g. those presented in sections  3.4, 3.5 and 4.6.

L1 L2 L3 PEN

L1 L2 L3 PEN

L1 L2 L3 PEN PEN MEB

E

ES

S

H

E

ES

S

H

IV

I = IE1 + Icpl IE1 < Icpl RM < RE1

I

I

I = IE1 + Icpl IE1 < 0 Icpl < I RM ⪡ RE1

I

CMC COM for VIC Rloop

UM

Icpl Icpl

EC

E2

E2

RF

RE

Functional earth electrode

Earth electrode

Rcpl RE1

RE1

RE2 IE1

IE2

IE12 = 0

IE2 = 0

“ Method as in figure  – but with a

a) Small distance and therefore small coupling resistance Rcpl between the earth electrode under test E1 and a second earth electrode E2 that is connected to the PEN conductor. b) Metallic connection to a second earth electrode that is itself connected to the PEN conductor. Icpl current causing measurement error; RE1 earth resistance being measured; RM earth resistance displayed on meter.

3.6

Earth resistance meter E ES

The earth resistance measurement described in this section6) is used if the earth electrode under test cannot or should not be disconnected from other earth electrodes to which it is wired in parallel. This method is based on the technique using a probe and auxiliary earth electrode that is discussed in section 3.2, but in this variant (see figure ”a)) a special earth resistance meter (Fluke 1623 or 1625) and an additional clamp-on current transformer (CMC) are required. The current measuring clamp CMC is clamped around the earthing conductor EC con-

S H

clamp-on ohmmeter rather than an earth resistance meter

EC earthing conductor; VIC voltage-inducing clamp; CMC current measuring clamp; COM clamp-on ohmmeter.

Earthed conductor e. g. counterpoise

Earth resistance meter UM RE = ––– I

E ES

S H UM RE1 = ––– IE1

I

I

Other earth electrodes

IP

I

I IE

CMC

Lattice-type EC pylon SCT

EC RE

Selective earth resistance measurements using a probe, an auxiliary earth electrode and a clamp-on ohmmeter

Test object a)

RE < Rloop

RE2

— Cases involving a TN system in which the method shown in fig. – is not suitable

the test current. The clamps are connected to a special earth resistance meter (Fluke Earth Ground Tester 1623 or 1625). Depending on which of the Fluke meters is used, either EI1623 or EI-1625 ‘selective/stakeless clamp set’ is required. The advantage in both cases is that the earthing conductor does not need to be disconnected, making measurement safer and quicker. The problem discussed in section 3.4.2 can also arise in these cases. If this method is used to make measurements on consumer installations, they must be designed with a TN earthing system. The method is suitable for measuring the resistance to earth of a pylon in an overhead power transmission line if the clamps can be fitted around the earthing conductor.

PE N

EC

IV

Auxiliary Other Probe earth electrode earth electrodes

IP IE

IE1

IE2

IE3

IE4

RE1

RE2

RE3

RE4

Test object (pyton stubs)

Auxiliary Probe earth electrode

b)

” Selective earth resistance measurements using a probe, an auxiliary earth electrode and split-core current transformers a) Test object whose earthing conductor can be clamped by a split-core current transformer; b) Pylon whose legs can be clamped by a split-core current transformer near the foundation of the pylon IE part of test current flowing through the earth electrode under test to the auxiliary earth electrode; IE1 to IE4 parts of IE flowing in the pylon legs and stubs; IP portion of the test current flowing to the auxiliary earth electrode via the other parallel earth electrodes (current path through soil not shown in part b) of figure).

7

L1 L2 L3 N

L1 L2 L3 PEN RCD

nected to the earth electrode under test and connected to a multi-pole socket on the earth resistance meter. When the meter is connected in this way and the rotary selector switch has been set appropriately, IP, the portion of the test current I flowing via the other parallel earth electrodes, has no effect on measurement result so that the branch current IE recorded by current measuring clamp CMC is solely responsible for determining the resistance to earth RE displayed by the meter. Figure  ”b) shows the measurement circuit used when dealing with a steel-lattice electricity pylon that cannot be electrically disconnected from the earthed conductor (e. g. counterpoise, PEN conductor or neutral conductor). As the pylon structure serves as the earthing conductor EC, it is clearly not possible to clamp a CMC around the earthing conductor as in figure ”a). In this case, measurements are made by consecutively clamping a splitcore transformer SCT (Fluke EI-162BN7)) around the four pylon legs that are connected to the four pylon stubs that act as earth electrodes. The earth resistance meter displays the resistances RE1 to RE4 consecutively. The resulting earth resistance RE of the four mast feet, which are connected to one another through the steel lattice structure, can be calculated by equation (5): RE =

4 4.1

UM RE = ––– I

N

UM RE = ––– I

PE

PE

N

MEB

MEB

Earth resistance meter

Earth resistance meter L

L

UM

UM

I V

A E

S

I V

A

EC

E

S

EC RF

Functional earth a) electrode

Probe

RE

RF

RE

Earth electrode

Functional earth b) electrode

Probe

Earth electrode

Current-voltage methods that draw current directly from the power supply and that use a probe a) Installation with TN system; b) Installation with TT system EC earthing conductor; RCD residual current device; I test current; MEB Main earthing busbar; RF resistance of functional earth; RE earth resistance being measured; UM test voltage

1 1 1 1 1 + + + RE1 RE2 RE3 RE4

(5)

Measurement methods that draw current from supply

UM RE = ––– I

N

Measuring equipment

The meters used for this type of measurement are designed primarily for testing electrical safety systems that make use of residual current devices. To ensure the simplest and safest connection to the power supply, the meters are typically equipped with a flexible power cable and an earthed safety plug. The meters also have a socket S for the probe (see figures  and 13 ). The socket E is used to connect the meter to the earth electrode under test unless one of the cores (protective earth core) of the flexible power cable and the earth contacts on the plug are used for this purpose. As the test meters are classified as Class II equipment (see ref.  [4], sec.  4.5), the core and the plug’s earth contact do not serve as protection against shock hazards. The meters do not have their own power source unless this is needed for some other type of measurement. Some meters may have an additional connector socket for a current measuring clamp.

L1 L2 L3 N

L1 L2 L3 PEN RCD

UM RE = ––– I

PE

N

MEB

PE MEB

Earth resistance meter

Earth resistance meter L

L

EC UM

S

UM

I V

I V

A E

A E

S

EC RF

Functional earth a) electrode

RE

Earth electrode

RF

Functional earth b) electrode

RE

Earth electrode

12 Current-voltage methods that draw current directly from the power supply and that use the PEN or neutral conductor instead of a probe 7) The jaws of the split-core transformer are dimensioned for large rectangular-section conductors such as the legs of high-voltage pylons.

8

a) Installation with TN system; b) Installation with TT system

L1 L2 L3 PEN U0 – UM Rloop < –––––––– I RE < Rloop

N

UE < U0 – UM

L1 L2 L3 N U0 – UM Rloop < –––––––– I RE < Rloop

PE

N PE

UE < U0 – UM

MEB

Earth resistance meter

RCD

Earth resistance meter

L

MEB L

L

UM

UM

U0

U0 EC

UM

UM

I V

V

A E

S

A E

S

EC RF

UE

UE

RE

Functional earth a) electrode

I

RF

Earth electrode

RE

Functional earth b) electrode

Earth electrode

13 Current-voltage methods that draw current directly from the power supply and that do not use a probe a) Installation with TN system; b) Installation with TT system Rloop loop resistance; U0 conductor-to-earth voltage; UE voltage across tested earth electrode L1 L2 L3 N UM RE = ––– I

N

L1 L2 L3 N UM RE = ––– I UE = UM

RCD N

MEB

Earth resistance meter L

L

UM V I E

UM V I E

A

A E

S

I

I IP

IP

IE

CMC

EC

Functional Probe earth electrode

EC

RE

Earth electrode

MEB

E

S

IE

CMC

RF

PE

Earth resistance meter

RF

Other earth electrodes

Functional Probe earth electrode

RE

Earth electrode

Other earth electrodes

Figures  to 14 show the basic principles of the complicated circuitry inside these meters. In most of these meters, the actual measurement process (including any gradual increase in the test current that may be involved) is carried out automatically. Rather than displaying the measured voltage and current separately, the resistance to earth is computed and displayed digitally on the meter. A selector switch enables the type of measurement, measurement technique, measurement circuit, parameter range and/or measurement sequence to be chosen. Most meters are fitted with a ‘START’ button to initiate the measurement process. User-friendly devices offer additional functions such as: • Multiple measurements with display of average result • Smoothing function • Display hold function • Data storage for transmitting or printing measurement results. To provide protection against electric shock, the meter must switch off automatically as soon as it causes a fault voltage greater than 50 V in the earthing system being measured. If a variable resistor is used to increase the test current, the current must not exceed 3.5 mA at the beginning of the measurement (see ref.  [6], sec. 4.7). Measurements in which the test current is increased gradually and measurements in which the current is only allowed to flow at maximum strength for a short period are both common. The difficulty associated with drawing current directly from the power supply is that the measurement is made at the supply frequency and interference currents that originate in the power supply or that are carried via earth can easily introduce measurement errors. The larger the test current, the less effect these sources of interference will have. It is therefore expedient to work with a large test current. However, a large test current can itself be problematic when the meter is connected behind a residual current device, as it can cause the RCD to trigger. This can be avoided by using one of the following procedures: • Ensuring that the magnitude of the test current is only half that of the rated residual current IΔN of the RCD. • Connecting the meter in front of the RCD or to a circuit that is not equipped with an RCD. • According to the manufacturer Chauvin Arnoux the patented ‘ALT system’ used in its C.A 6115 N and C.A 6456 Earth Clamps enables these devices to make earth resistance measurements using a larger test current even if connected behind a 30 mA RCD. Whenever interference effects may play a role, several measurements should be conducted and the results compared with one another.

14 Selective earth resistance measurement methods that draw current directly from the power supply and that use a probe and a clamp-on ammeter

4.2

a) Installation with TN system; b) Installation with TT system IE portion of test current flowing to the earth electrode under test; IF portion of test current flowing to the other earth electrodes; CMC current measuring clamp

The meter is typically connected to the power supply via its earthed safety plug. If the plug is

Connections to power supply and earth electrode

9

inserted incorrectly, no hazard arises but no measurement is possible. Although not shown in the figures, the internal circuitry of most of the meters only functions if the meter is connected to the phase conductor and to the neutral conductor. The test current can induce accidental triggering of an upstream RCD. This may need to be taken into account when connecting the meter (see discussion in section 4.1 above). Depending on the type of meter used, the earth electrode to be measured is • either connected directly to socket E of the meter (see fig. Õ in section 2) • or (in most cases) is connected to the meter via the plug’s earth contact as shown in figures  to 14 . Connections between the earth electrode under test and other earth electrodes would yield erroneous results. It is for this reason that when measurements are made on consumer installations with a TN earthing system, the earthing conductor EC has to be separated from the main earthing busbar MEB (see figures a) to 14 a)) as the latter is connected via the PEN conductor of the service cable and the supply network to other earth electrodes. Disconnection is not required in a TT system as the main earthing busbar is not linked to the neutral line of the supply network and the connection can be made as shown in figures  b) to 14 b).

4.3

Methods using a probe

This method is the most accurate of the techniques that draw current directly from the supply provided that the probe can be inserted into the soil at a suitable location. A schematic of the measurement set-up is shown in figure  . The probe has to be located so that it is outside the sphere of influence of the earth electrode. The voltage UM between the sockets E and S generates the test current I in the earth electrode.

4.4

Method using the PEN conductor or neutral conductor instead of a probe

This measuring techniques can be used whenever it is not possible to insert a probe into the ground at the right location. In this method (see figure 12 ) the probe is replaced by connecting socket S of the meter to the PEN or PE conductor in a TN system or to the neutral conductor in a TT system. Caution! The neutral conductor must be treated as if it is live, even though it is earthed. The value displayed by the meter includes the resistance to earth of the functional earth electrode. This will overestimate the resistance of the earth electrode and thus yield a value that errs on the side of safety. The voltages generated by operating currents and by fault currents in the functional earth or in the PEN conductor or neutral conductor of the power supply system can result in erroneous measurement results. The accuracy of this technique is therefore lower than that

10

achievable using the method described in section 4.3.

4.5

Method without a probe

This method (illustrated schematically in figure ) involves measuring the resistance of a conductor loop via an earth return path. In this method, the voltage across the test object (UE) is not measured directly. It is determined as the difference between the potential drop between the phase conductor and earth when the test resistance is switched off (U0) and that when the test current I is flowing (UM). The resistance value measured includes the resistances of the functional earth, the transformer and the phase conductor. This will result in an overestimation of the earth resistance and thus yield a value that errs on the side of safety. This method is particularly attractive as it can be performed with a minimum of effort. But it suffers from the weakness that supply load fluctuations that happen to occur simultaneously while the measurement is being made will cause significant additional measurement errors. To limit these errors, it is therefore expedient to work with a large test current. It is also advisable to perform numerous measurements, to reject any extreme values recorded and to compute the mean value from the remaining measurement data.

4.6

References [1] IEC 60364-4-41:205 Erection of power installations with nominal voltages up to 1000 V – Part 4-41: Protection for safety – Protection against electric shock. [2] Hering, E.: Schutzerder des TT-Systems (engl.: Protective earthing in the TT system). Elektropraktiker, Berlin 59 (2005) 5, p. 370-373. [3] IEC 60364-6:2006-02 Low-voltage electrical installations – Part 6: Verification. [4] IEC 61557-1:2007 Equipment for testing, measuring or monitoring of protective measures – Part 1: General requirements. [5] IEC 61557-5:2007 Equipment for testing, measuring or monitoring of protective measures – Part 5: Resistance to earth. [6] IEC 61557-6:2007 Equipment for testing, measuring or monitoring of protective measures – Part 6: Effectiveness of residual current devices (RCD) in TT, TN and IT systems. [7] IEC 61557-10:2000 Equipment for testing, measuring or monitoring of protective measures – Part 10: Combined measuring equipment for testing, measuring or monitoring of protective measures. [8] Hering, E.: Probleme mit einem der Erdungsmeßverfahren beim TN-System (engl.: Problems with an earth resistance measurement technique in a TN system). Elektropraktiker, Berlin 53 (1999) 9, p. 820-822. [9] Hering, E.: Durchgangsprüfungen an Erdungsanlagen [Continuity testing in earthing systems]. Elektropraktiker, Berlin 59 (2005) 11, p. 888891 und in diesem Sonderdruck. [10]DIN EN 62305-3 (VDE 0185-305-3):2006-10: Protection against lightning – Part 3: Physical damage to structures and life hazard.

Selective earth resistance measurements using a probe and a clamp-on ammeter

The method selective earth resistance measurement8) is used if, for the purposes of the measurement, the earth electrode under test cannot or should not be disconnected from other earth electrodes to which it is wired in parallel. It is based on the method using a probe discussed in section 4.3, but in this variant (see figure 14 ) a special earth resistance meter (Chauvin Arnoux C.A. 6115N or C.A. 6456) and an additional current measuring clamp CMC are required. The current measuring clamp is connected to a multipole socket on the meter and the clamp jaws are placed around the earthing conductor EC connected to the earth electrode under test. If the meter is connected in this way and if the rotary selector switch set appropriately, IP, the portion of the measuring current I flowing via the other parallel earth electrodes, has no effect on measurement result so that the branch current IE recorded by the current measuring clamp CMC is solely responsible for determining the resistance to earth RE displayed by the meter.

8) On its own, the expression ‘selective earth measurement’ is ambiguous, as other earth resistance measurement techniques are also selective, e. g. those presented in sections  3.4, 3.5 and 3.6.

Continuity testing in earthing systems E. Hering, Dresden (Germany) Continuity tests are carried out to verify that conductors, in this case metal conductors, are unbroken. This article describes the extent to which continuity testing in earthing systems is required and possible and also discusses the test equipment that can be used. In terms of continuity there is no significant difference between the initial test and repeat tests, despite the fact that they are treated separately in the relevant standards.

1 1.1

Reasons for and limits of continuity testing Earthing conductor and main earthing busbar

The earthing system must be connected to the main earthing busbar (MEB) of the electrical installation. This is necessary a) to provide protection against electric shock ([1], sec. 441.3.1; [2], sec. 542.1.2) b) to provide a connection to earth for overvoltage protection devices even if the building is not equipped with a lightning protection system ([3], figures A.1 to A.5) c) in buildings with a lightning protection system ([4], sections 5.4.1, 6.2.1, 6.2.5 and E.6.2) d) in buildings with an antenna requiring lightning protection e) for foundation earth electrodes ([5], sections 4 and 5.4). The conductor between the main earthing busbar and the earthing system is an earthing conductor and/or an equipotential bonding conductor (protective bonding conductor and/or lightning protection bonding conductor). The continuity of this conductor must be tested ([6], section 612.2; [4], section E.7.2.4; [5], section 7).

1.2

Ring earth electrodes

Continuity testing on ring earth electrodes is advisable for the following reasons: a) Earth resistance measurements, which are required by the applicable standards but are not dealt with in this article, are unable to detect any break in the ring. While any discontinuity will not lead to an increase in the resistance to earth, it can have a significant detrimental effect on the efficiency of the voltage protection, as the surge currents are forced to flow via another path. b) Repeated continuity testing on older ring earth electrodes can, if carried out in the form of resistance measurements, identify reductions in the conductor cross-section (as a result of corrosion) by registering an increased resistance. In order for continuity testing to be possible, a buried ring earth electrode must have at least

two soil entry points, while a foundation earth electrode must be equipped with at least two connection points. The more of these hook-up points there are available, the easier it is to carry out continuity testing. In reinforced concrete foundations, it is not possible to detect a break in the ring of the foundation earth electrode. This is not dangerous, however, as the break is effectively bridged by the steel reinforcing bars within the foundation. In this case, continuity testing can only serve to verify that the connection between the connection points and the ring is intact.

1.3

Linear earth electrodes

Continuity testing is not possible with vertical earth rods and elongated horizontal earth electrodes (star or crow’s foot configurations) as these electrodes only have a single soil entry point. If there is a break in the earth electrode near to where it enters the soil, this may be detectable as increased earth resistance.

2

Hazard avoidance

The process of measurement and any accompanying procedures (e.g. breaking standard connections and making non-standard connections) must not pose a safety hazard. If the earth electrode also functions as the protective

earthing of a TT or IT earthing system as detailed in [1], its connection to the MEB may only be broken if the electrical installation has been disconnected from the power source or power generator. Tests that involve breaking connections (e.g. opening the inspection joint of a lightning protection system) must never be carried out during a storm or whenever a storm could expected. Failure to comply could be hazardous, particularly for the person doing the testing. For safety reasons, the use of voltages greater than 25 V should be avoided. Small voltages are anyway advisable for continuity testing (see [6], sec. 612.2). The testing and measuring equipment used must comply with the specifications in the relevant standard (see ref. [7]). Resistance measurements are typically carried out using equipment that conforms with the specifications in reference [8]. However, earth resistance meters that meet the requirements in reference [9] can also be used.

3 3.1

Test methods Principles

The person carrying out the test must be aware of all connections between the earthing system and other electrical and non-electrical installations. Examples of the latter include pipe systems or metallic structural components of a building. An unknown connection can falsify the test results. The continuity test can be carried out most simply if the conductor under test can be disconnected at least on one side. This assumes, however, that the broken connection can be reliably re-stored after testing. To facilitate continuity testing on lightning protection systems, it is normal to open the inspection joints at the soil entry points or connection terminals. Figure  ➊ illustrates test circuits that can be used when no other conductor is connected in parallel to the test object. The continuity tester shown in figure ➊a) consists of at least a power source and an indicator, e.g. a lamp. To increase the test current, a resistance can be con-

11

PS

PS

G

G

PLC

a)

1

2

1

PLC CAM2

TC

TC

CAM

CAM

b)

2

1

G 3

CT

a)

3

CT

b)

3

c)

PS

I2 2 CA2 CA1 G I1 I PS

I2 – I3 = I4 – I1 I3 CA4 CA3 3 I4 4

c)

a) Without determining the resistance of the conductor b) Resistance of conductor determined by making an additional voltage measurement PLC conductor connected in parallel (can also be a second test conductor) VM low-voltage voltmeter CAM position of clamp-on ammeter CAM2 second position of clamp-on ammeter when PLC is a second test conductor

à Examples of continuity tests when ring earth electrode is open

nected in parallel to the indicator. According to the recommendation in reference  [6], section 612.2, the power source should generate an open circuit voltage of between 4 and 24 V and the test current should be at least 0.2 A. Some continuity testers produce an acoustic signal if the resistance measured exceeds a user-adjustable limit. In figure  ➊b) the resistance is determined using a milliohmmeter. The advantage of the four-wire connection shown is that the result of the measurement is not affected by the resistances of the measuring leads. If a bridge is installed between the connection sockets 1 and 2 or between sockets 3 and 4 or if the meter only has two sockets and only two measuring leads are used, the resistances of the leads must be subtracted from the resistance value displayed by the meter. In order to measure the resistance of the leads their ends are connected together. Instead of using a milliohmmeter an earth resistance meter can be used as shown in figure ➊c) provided that the meter has a resistance measuring range down to 0.1 Ω, or lower if possible. The remarks made about the meter connections in figure ➊b) apply here analogously. As indicated in figure ➊d), the resistance can also be measured by means of a clamp-on ohmmeter such as the Earth Clamp1) C.A 6410 manufactured by Chauvin Arnoux. The resistance of the measuring lead needed to close the circuit must be subtracted from the resistance value displayed by the meter. If one or more conductors are connected in parallel to the test object, the same procedures discussed with regard to figure À can be used. A power source is connected to the ends of the conductor under test. In figure Àa) continuity is verified when

a current is detected by a clamp-on ammeter that is clamped around the conductor under test TC. If, as shown in figure Àb), a voltmeter for measuring small voltages is connected across the conductor under test, the resistance of the conductor can be determined by dividing the measured voltage by the measured current. Continuity testing is carried out preferentially with alternating current, e.g. from a transformer or from an earth resistance meter. If a DC source is used, then a special type of clamp-on ammeter is required that contains a current sensor based on the Hall effect instead of a current transformer.

a) Testing connections 1 and 3 and the left section of the ring b) Testing connections 2 and 3 and the right section of the ring c) Testing the entire ring earth electrode

3.2

3 b)

1

CT

2 CA2 G

PS

a)

mV VM

À Continuity testing circuits that measure the current in a conductor that has another conductor connected to it in parallel

12

1 CA1

2

Continuity testing in ring earth electrodes that can be opened

This section describes examples of continuity tests performed on ring-shaped foundation earth electrodes. Many of these tests can also be carried out in the same way on buried ring earth electrodes. As already mentioned in section 1.2, the ease of performing a continuity test and the reliability of the results obtained depends on the number and arrangement of connection points or soil entry points. Being able to open the ring earth electrode considerably simplifies continuity testing. These factors should be taken into account when planning the earthing system. The test circuits shown in figures à to Œ can only be used if the ring can be opened at least one location. Foundation earth electrodes can be opened when there are two adjacent, flushfloor connection points that are linked conductively to one another via a bridging strip that closes the ring. Buried ring earth electrodes may have an inspection joint located in an underfloor inspection box.

Õ Examples of continuity tests when ring earth electrode has not been opened a) Analogous to fig. Ãa); b) Analogous to fig. Ãb); c) Four tests on a foundation earth electrode with a cross connector and four connection points I measured current; I1 to I4 partial currents; CA1 to CA4 positions of clamp-on ammeter

Figure Ã shows the ring opened for testing. In the test circuits shown in figure Õ continuity is verified by detecting current in the relevant parts of the ring by means of a clamp-on ammeter at the bridging strip or the underfloor inspection joint. In the test scenario shown in figure Œ, the resistance of the ring is measured at the bridging strip or the underfloor inspection joint using a clamp-on ohmmeter (see ‘Earth Clamp’ in section 3.1).

3.3

Continuity testing in ring earth systems that cannot be opened

If the ring earth electrode has at least four connection points, a break in ring continuity can be identified by sequentially measuring the resistance between two neighbouring connection points. The small resistances of the conductors that run between the point of connection of the meter leads and the ring have to be subtracted from the resistance displayed on the ohmmeter. Although the soil and, in the case of a foundation earth electrode, also the concrete are connected in parallel to the metal conductor, they have no significant effect on the measurement result because their resistivity is very much greater than that of steel. If the ring is uninterrupted, the resistance measured is that of a parallel circuit comprising the 1) The semicircular jaws of the clamp contain two transformers. The purpose of one is to induce a voltage in the conductor, the other measures the resulting current. The clamp is closed when the jaws have been placed around the conductor. The display on the clamp meter displays a resistance value computed by dividing the value of the induced voltage by the current flowing in the conductor.

If the ring is unbroken, the resistance measured across any pair of neighbouring connection points is expressed by equation (4): COM

Ro = RP

(3 R ) = 3 R (4 R ) 4 P

(4)

P

P

ΠContinuity testing using a clamp-on

ohmmeter positioned at the point COM

If the ring is broken (i.e. open), the resistance RC measured across the two connection points enclosing the break will be:

(43)R

Rc = 3 mΩ

OM

Discontinuity

œ

Verifying a discontinuity as an increased resistance resulting from the longer current path

section of the earth ring enclosed by the measuring leads and the series circuit that makes up the remaining part of the ring. If the earth ring electrode is broken at some point between the measuring leads (see figure œ), the resistance measured is that of the remaining part of the ring. If the measurement is made on one part of the ring, the resistance of that part alone is measured. Example calculation 1 The ring earth electrode has four connection points. Those parts of the ring located between the connection points have the resistances R1…R4. If the ring is unbroken, the resistance RO (‘O’ is used here to symbolize the intact earth ring electrode) measured across the two connection points that enclose the part of the ring with the resistance R1 is given by: 1 RE = (1) 1 1 1 1 + + + RE1 RE2 RE3 RE4 However, if the part of the ring with the resistance R1 is broken, the resistance RC measured across those same connection points (‘C’ is used here to symbolize a ring with a continuity break) will now be given by equation (2). RC = R2 + R3 + R4

(2)

Example calculation 2 Situation as in example calculation 1 but each of the four sections of the ring has the same resistance RP. RP = R1 = R2 = R3 = R4

(5)

RC = 3 RP

o=

4Ro

(6)

If the measurement is therefore made across those connection points enclosing the discontinuity, the resistance measured will be three times the resistance of the partial resistance RP and four times the resistance that would be measured if the ring were unbroken. If the number of connection points is greater than four, the same computational methodology can be used with the exception that equations (1) and (2) would then contain additional terms for the additional sections of the ring, and the factors in equations (4) and (5) would be larger. If the earth ring electrode has only two connection points, it may be possible to carry out testing in accordance with figure  Àb) (see section 3.1). However, this would require being able to clamp a clamp-on ammeter around the two parts of the ring that are connected in parallel to the power source. If this is to be attempted on a buried ring earth electrode, the clamp can, for instance, be located on each side of a soil entry point. If the measurement is an initial measurement, then the earthing channel in the relevant areas must not be backfilled until the measurement has been made. If the measurement is a repeat measurement, it can be carried out, for example, when material has to be removed from the earthing channel in order to check on the state of corrosion of the earth electrode.

4

References [1] IEC 60364-4-41:2005 Erection of power installations with nominal voltages up to 1000 V – Part 4-41: Protection for safety – Protection against electric shock. [2] DIN VDE 0100-540 (VDE 0100-540):2007-06 – Low-voltage electrical installations – Part 5-54: Selection and erection of electrical equipment – Earthing arrangements, protective conductors and protective bonding conductors. [3] Prestandard DIN V VDE V 0100-534 (VDE V 0100-534):1999-04 Electrical installations of buildings – Part 5-34: Selection and erection of equipment – Devices for protection against overvoltages. [4] EN 62305-3:2006 Protection against lightning – Part 3: Physical damage to structures and life hazard (IEC 62305-3:2006). [5] DIN 18014:2007-09 Foundation earth electrodes. [6] IEC 60364-6:2006-02 Low-voltage electrical installations – Part 6: Verification. [7] EN 61557-1:2007 Equipment for testing, measuring or monitoring of protective measures – Part 1: General requirements (equivalent to IEC 61557-1). [8] EN 61557-4:2007 Equipment for testing, measuring or monitoring of protective measures – Part 4: Resistance of earth connection and equipotential bonding (equivalent to IEC 61557-4). [9] EN 61557-5:2007 Equipment for testing, measuring or monitoring of protective measures – Part 5: Resistance to earth (equivalent to IEC 615575).

Test report

Continuity testing is only one of several tests that have to be performed on earthing systems. In general, the results from all the tests are contained in a single test report. The tests performed and any accompanying action that is taken must be described precisely so that they can be reproduced at a later date. All test and measurement results must be stated clearly and precisely. If the earth electrode serves as a lightning protection earth electrode, the test report must comply with the specifications in reference [4], sec. E.7.2.5.

(3)

13