- Ungrounded System
- Examples of application
Ungrounded system: Application examples
Monitoring of a main circuit
Monitoring of a control circuit
Monitoring a disconnected load
Many loads are only switched on in an “emergency” (e.g. fire pumps, slides, all types of heating, etc.). Whilst they are offline, however, moisture or other factors can cause ground faults in the associated supply cable or on the load itself. When these loads are switched on, the protective device will respond or fires will start, thereby preventing operation.
The ground-fault monitoring device, also known as the offline monitor, monitors the insulation resistance during offline periods and signals ground faults immediately. When the load is switched on, insulation measurement based on the K contactor is deactivated. The fault memory is also able to detect transient ground faults. If it can be assured that all poles on the load will be taken offline, this monitoring can also be used in TN and/or TT systems.
Response value of the insulation monitoring device: The ground-fault monitoring device must signal ground faults ≤ 1 MΩ, this is because motors are frequently rendered non-operational at an insulation resistance of ≤ 500 kΩ.
Monitoring of mobile generators
Electrical safety is often difficult to assure on mobile power generators.
- In very few cases does the ground/environment permit a grounding system to be installed (stones, rubble, rock, asphalt, etc. would have to be penetrated).
- Time is of the essence, there is not enough time to measure and check the protective measure.
- The relevant skilled person is lacking.
However, the ability to respond immediately and appropriately is vital in an emergency situation. It is for this reason that mobile power generators feature the protective measure (Protection by electrical separation with ground-fault monitoring and disconnection) in accordance with IEC 60364-5-51.