an abb sace division technical journal dayby din on ......tn-c 3p m512963 ovr t2 3l 40 275s p 3p+n...

An ABB SACE Division technical journal

on Modular devices

2|11

New standards: a complete 24 hour continuous protectionThe safety of the SPD for photovoltaic and the commitment of ABBResidential photovoltaic systems 28Guideline for selecting the systemSafety and services of the residential electric systems 34The new V3 variant of standard CEI 64-8

News and curiosities for informed professionals

Day by DIN

2 Day by DIN 2|11 Day by DIN 2|11

Editorial

Day by DIN 2 | 11 • ABB Information periodical ABB SACE Division - Modular Devices • copyright 2011 • Modular Devices Product Management: Emanuele Tosatti • E-mail: [email protected] • Published by: ABB S.p.A. - ABB SACE Division • Design: Winning Associates Printed by: Caleidograf • Use of the texts and the images without prior written authorisation by ABB S.p.A.- ABB SACE Division is prohibited

04 24 DINew! A guide to new DIN rail and front panel products: what’s new

New standards: a complete 24 hour continuous protectionThe safety of the SPD for photovoltaics and the commitment of ABB

Dear readers,the spring which has just begun will as always bring with it sun and warmth, but also the first thunderstorms. Natural – in every aspect! – many articles in the new issue of Day by DIN are dedicated to the sun and the thunderstorms, among which you’ll find a precious article on residential systems.The spring of 2011 will bring with it a further innovation: the publication of the new Variant 3 of the standard CEI 64-8, of which we have analysed the main innovations in an article rich in examples. On the other hand we at Day by DIN do not only deal with the topics that are hot at the moment, but also curious subjects which are less famous and equally as interesting for those who, like us, live electricity like a true passion.

In this new issue we therefore celebrate the birth, one hundred years ago, of electricity in Italy and make some provocative reflections on what the world would be like without it today. We will look at transformers, power supplies and time switches under a new light, highlighting the applications.We will finally visit an Italian Company (our cover story), that has chosen to make the well-being of its employee its emblem… a real challenge and a great success, of which we are proud that ABB is one of the ingredients.And in the next issue? That depends on you as well! If you want to suggest subjects that you think ABB should look into further or give us your opinion on the topics in this number write to us at: [email protected]

Enjoy reading Day by DIN!

Emanuele TosattiProduct ManagerModular DevicesABB S.p.A. - ABB SACE Division

Day by DIN 2|11

Are you interested in Day by Din and want to receive it for free?Subscribe immediately by connecting to the internet address: http://bit.ly/ABB_DaybyDINYou will immediately receive a copy of this number and all the subsequent issues.

Day by DIN 2|11 3Day by DIN 2|11

News and facts4 DINew!

A guide to DIN rail and front panel products: what’s new

6 In the news Literature on our latest products

8 Top nine New products for photovoltaic

39 ABB events in Solarexpo

The expert answers7 Letters from the front (panel)

The editor responds 32 Curiosity

Electric energy and modernity: new scenarios, new possibilities

40 How much does he know? The expert responds

48 Quiz This product is for…

Case History 10 Environmental responsibility and energy saving

Zero impact forwarding and logistics

History and surroundings18 History of electric power in Italy

The dawn, the pioneers, the first power plants

Technical16 A world without electricity

An imaginative and unsettling picture to think about the future seriously. Commitment.

21 Always in time with your needs ABB D Line digital time switches

24 New standards: a protection which is always more complete The safety of the SPD for photovoltaic and the commitment of ABB

28 Residential photovoltaic systems Guide lines for the selection of the plant

34 Safety and performance of the residential systems The new V3 variant of the standard CEI 64-8

42 We build safety The extremely low voltage supply

Time to relax50 The electrical network

Technique, history and curiosities51 DIN photos

Contents

34

28

Safety and services of the residential electric systems The new V3 variant of standard CEI 64-8

Residential photovoltaic systemsGuideline for selecting the system


News and facts

DINew!The ABB spring starts with two important innovations: the electronic protection for 24 V DC lines EPD24 and the innovative M2M network analyser.

ABB proposes the range of electronic protective devices EPD24-TB-101 for the selective protection of the systems supplied at 24 V DC. In cases of overcurrents or short circuits, the line is identified and isolated preserving the operational continuity of the system. The remote contact and the LED allow the monitoring of the state of each line.Technical catalogue: System pro M compact® 2010 edition in English - 2CSC400002D0906

EPD24-TB-101Protection

The selective protection facilitates maintenance

Benefits − In case of a short circuit, electronic

limitation of the current prior to the opening of the circuit

− Disconnection in case of overcurrent from 1.1 x In upwards, even with long load lines and small sections of cable

− Limitation of the active current for the safe connection of capacitive loads up to 20.000 μF

− Rated currents from 0,5A to 12A − Manual control of the device − Indication of the state of LED protection

and signaling contact − Reduced dimensions: only 12.5 mm

width per line − Busbars for multiple supply (LINE+ and

0V) and busbar for state signalization to monitor more EPD24 in battery.

− UL and CSA approval


News and facts

In order to measure the true effective value of the main electric parameters in three-phase networks, the new M2M network analyser equipped with advanced analysis functionality, is the ideal solution. Mounted in low- and medium-voltage switchboards, it allows the real-time measurement and the analysis both of the electric parameters and the consumption of the system. M2M verifies the quality of the energy thanks to the control of the presence of harmonics and the computing of their percentage influence, and furthermore helps to use the energy in a more efficient and rational manner. All the information can be remoted thanks to the availability of all the main communication protocols, while the interaction with the control and supervision systems is assured by analogic and digital outputs and inputs.Technical catalogue: System pro M compact® 2010 edition in Italian - 2CSC400002D0906

M2MMeasurement

Benefits − High-visibility LCD backlit display with

scrollable text − Monitoring of electric parameters

in medium and low voltage systems − Metering of the power and the energy,

active reactive and total, both produced as well as consumed, with calculation of total

− Possibility of displaying the power data converted in currency and in kg of CO2

− Reduced depth inside the panel: only 57 mm flush mount, even in cases of reduced spaces

− Communication flexibility according to different protocols: Modbus RTU, Profibus DP, Modbus TCP/IP

− Digital and electromechanical relay outputs for the management of loads and programming of the alarm intervention thresholds

− Analogical outputs for the remotisation of the parameters measured, for the integration with control and automation systems

− Digital inputs for the acquiring of impulses from other counters of energy or other facilities

Analyse the network to keep consumption and electric parameters under control

Scaricatori di sovratensione Gamma OVRUna scelta fulminea

PE

L1

L2

L3

N

OV

R T

1 3N

25

255

OV

R T

2 3N

40

275s

P

Interruttoredifferenziale

Interruttorio fusibili

Quadrogenerale Sottoquadro

Sistemi TT e TN-S 3P+N

PEN

L1

L2

L3

OV

R T

1 3L

25

255

OV

R T

2 3L

40

275s

P



Sistema TNC 3P (230 V L-N)

L

N

OV

R T

1 1N

25

255

OV

R T

2 1N

40

275s

P



Sistema TT 1P+N


L1

L2

OV

R P

V 4

0 60

0 P

Fusibili

Sottoquadro

Fotovoltaico

PE

PE


PE

L1

L2

L3

N

OV

R T

1 3N

25

255

OV

R T

2 3N

40

275s

P





PEN

L1

L2

L3

OV

R T

1 3L

25

255

OV

R T

2 3L

40

275s

P




L

N

OV

R T

1 1N

25

255

OV

R T

2 1N

40

275s

P



Sistema TT 1P+N


L1

L2

OV

R P

V 4

0 60

0 P

Fusibili

Sottoquadro

Fotovoltaico

PE

PE

Sistemi TNC 3P (230 V L-N)

PE

L1

L2

L3

N

OV

R T

1 3N

25

255

OV

R T

2 3N

40

275s

P





PEN

L1

L2

L3

OV

R T

1 3L

25

255

OV

R T

2 3L

40

275s

P




L

N

OV

R T

1 1N

25

255

OV

R T

2 1N

40

275s

P



Sistema TT 1P+N


L1

L2

OV

R P

V 4

0 60

0 P

Fusibili

Sottoquadro

Fotovoltaico

PE

PE

Sistemi TT e TN-S, 1P+N

PE

L1

L2

L3

N

OV

R T

1 3N

25

255

OV

R T

2 3N

40

275s

P





PEN

L1

L2

L3

OV

R T

1 3L

25

255

OV

R T

2 3L

40

275s

P




L

N

OV

R T

1 1N

25

255

OV

R T

2 1N

40

275s

P



Sistema TT 1P+N


L1

L2

OV

R P

V 4

0 60

0 P

Fusibili

Sottoquadro

Fotovoltaico

PE

PE

Fotovoltaico

Impianto Scaricatore Interruttori o fusibili

Classe Sistema Poli Codice Tipo Taglia Codice Tipo

SCARICADIRETTA EINDIRETTA

In un quadro generale, se c’è un parafulmine o la fornitura è aerea e nel quadro ci sono apparecchiature delicate

1 e

2

TT, TN-S3P+N 3 x M510884 + 1 x M510860 3 x OVR T1+2 25 255 TS + 1 x OVR T1 100 N 3 x 125A gG EA 062 8 E 933N/125

1P+N 1 x M510884 + 1 x M510853 1 x OVR T1+2 25 255 TS + 1 x OVR T1 50 N 1 x 125A gG EA 059 4 E 931N/125

TN-C 3P 3 x M510884 3 x OVR T1+2 25 255 TS 3 x 125A gG EA 061 0 E 933/125

SCARICADIRETTA

In un quadro generale, se c’è un parafulmine o quando la fornitura elettrica proviene da una linea aerea

1TT, TN-S

3P+N M510938 OVR T1 3N 25 255 3 x 125A gG EA 062 8 E 933N/125

1P+N M510921 OVR T1 1N 25 255 1 x 125A gG EA 059 4 E 931N/125

TN-C 3P M510907 OVR T1 3L 25 255 3 x 125A gG EA 061 0 E 933/125

SCARICAINDIRETTA

In tutti i quadri, per proteggere le apparecchiature terminali dall’impulso elettromagnetico del fulmine

2TT, TN-S

3P+N M513144 OVR T2 3N 40 275s P 3P+N C25A S529235¹ S 204 - C25

1P+N M513090 OVR T2 1N 40 275s P 1P+N C25A S531795¹ S 201 Na - C25

TN-C 3P M512963 OVR T2 3L 40 275s P 3P+N C25A S468206¹ S 203 - C25

¹ Interruttore automatico 6 kA. Per altri modelli consultare il catalogo ABB System pro M compact®.

Fotovoltaico, lato corrente continua Scaricatore Protezione - Solo se Icc > 100A

Classe Tensione massima Uoc di stringa

Contatto remoto Codice Tipo Taglia Codice Tipo

SCARICAINDIRETTA 2

Nei quadri di stringa per la protezione dalle sovratensioni indotte sul lato c.c.

670 V c.c. - M513960 OVR PV 40 600 P

2 x 10A gR M204703 E 92/32 PV670 V c.c. SI M513977 OVR PV 40 600 P TS

1000 V c.c. - M514240 OVR PV 40 1000 P

1000 V c.c. SI M514257 OVR PV 40 1000 P TS

10299_tappetoneOVR.indd 1 20/12/10 12.23

La potenza della natura, il controllo della tecnologiaDall’esperienza ABB, OVR PV: protezione dalle sovratensioni in impianti fotovoltaici

2CS

C30

1001

B09

01 -

04/

2011

- 2

.000

Pz.

- C

AL.Dati e immagini non sono impegnativi. In funzione dello

sviluppo tecnico e dei prodotti, ci riserviamo il diritto di modificare il contenuto di questo documento senza alcuna notifica.

Copyright 2011 ABB. Tutti i diritti riservati.

Sezionatori rotativi OTM per impianti fotovoltaici Completa garanzia per il sezionamento in corrente alternata e continua


With new information, applicative examples and technical tables, the new OVR PV brochure is a valid help for photovoltaic system installers. Any inefficiency by components of the system would involve elevated cost and ABB, therefore, supplies suggestions regarding suitable protections and solutions recognised on the Italian and foreign market. A large amount of space is dedicated to the end of life of the photovoltaic SPD, illustrating, for example, the patented thermal disconnector present in each OVR PV.Brochure: 2CSC432012B0901

OVR PV

News and facts

Protection

To ensure electric isolation during maintenance interventions and in cases of failures or the isolating for the single strings, the use of OTM switch-disconnector is ideal. The brochure indicates the different functions of this product and its integration with the products from the System pro M compact® series.Brochure: 2CSC301001B0901

OTM switch-disconnectors

Disconnection

Solutions for the disconnection and the switching in photovoltaic systems

Photovoltaic systems protected and safe during all their operative life

Protecting the electric system from surges is important for the safety of the persons, as well as to safeguard precious electronic equipment. The new deskmat from the OVR range is a complete instrument to be kept on the desktop or on the work bench, helping to quickly find the correct solution to protect against surges in the industrial, civil and photovoltaic systems.The deskmat can also be downloaded in pdf

format: 2CSC432005E0902

OVR range surge protective devices

Protection

Quick selection of the ideal protection

In the news Disconnection and protection from overvoltage: lots of new documents by ABB which are available to those operating in the electric sector helping them in their work.The documents and the software can be downloaded for free from http://www.abb.com/abblibrary/DownloadCenter/

Gamma di sezionatori e portafusibili E 90Prestazioni senza compromessi


The expert answers

The complete catalogue of all the modular solutions for the protection of circuits with fuses. The E 90 range allows a rapid, flexible and error free installation. The combination of the E 9F fuses and the E 90 and E 930 fuse disconnectors up to 125 A is a guarantee of safety.Brochure: 2CSC444002B0902

E 90 disconnectors and fuse holders

Disconnection

Complete protection through fuses

Letters from the front (panel)The editor respondsThe professionals can interact with ABB on this page always with a view to a continuous updating of their own professional skills. Your letters and FAQ to ABB regarding the DIN rail and front panel products find their own space in this column.

E 90 fuse switch disconnectors are marked on the front 400 V AC, whilst in the System pro M compact® catalogue ABB states they operate up to 690 V DC. Why?

The fuse switch disconnectors of E 90 series are certified by the IMQ approval according to the EN 60947-3 standard.

The IMQ approval, stamped on the side of the device, assesses to its quality meaning the verification of the complete conformity to the reference product standard and the maintenance guarantee of the same during the life-cycle of the device, certified by a third party agency. This implies that all the products manufactured according to the validated process respect the level of quality established by the standards.

ABB has chosen to introduce a wholly conforming product on the market certified for performances up to 400 V in the AC-22B utilization category. The marking is naturally coherent with the performances, in the interest of the final user of the device.

On the other hand, the manufacturer has right to declare, under its own responsibility, the technical characteristics of their own products. As a result of the laboratory tests carried out internally, ABB declares a number of additional performances for the 10,3 x 38 mm cylindrical fuses, amongst which is the operating in alternating current up to 690 V, in utilization category AC-20B.

Under demanding conditions of employment, that is in applications above 400 V AC, ABB declares a lower utilization category, to protect the safety of the final user: from the moment that the effective performances, of protection and isolating, depend both on the fuse holder as well as the fuse, the labelling of the fuse holder must be sure in the light of all the possible connections. From the moment the 10.3mm x 38 mm cylindrical fuses available on the market are declared up to only 500 V, it is not possible for the manufacturer to certify the maximum isolating performances under load at voltages of 690 V DAC

To sum up E 90 fuse switch disconnectors can be used on networks in alternating current up to 690 V in utilization category AC-20B, with performances declared by ABB. Furthermore, for applications up to 400 V in utilization category AC 22B, the performances are certified by the IMQ.

The product is marked with more cautious values for the safety of the final user, meaning 400 V.

Send us your questions:[email protected]

Marco Castoldi: Product Manager Modular devices ABB S.p.A. - ABB SACE Division


Top nineThe ideal solutions to protect the photovoltaic systems, guarantee the safety of the installers and maximise the yield of the energy produced.

News and facts

The photovoltaic system may need maintenance or an extraordinary intervention in case of a failure; in these cases the OTM switch-disconnectors are ideal to carry out the disconnecting in total safety. These devices can be used in the control and isolation of the strings with voltages up to 750 V DC, and can, moreover, be associated with protective devices (eg.: MCB S800PV or E 90 PV fuse disconnector). The OTM switch-disconnectors can be installed in the parallel switchboards or in the junction-boxes close to the photovoltaic panels, for the direct disconnection of the single strings.

OTMSwitch-disconnectors

In the photovoltaic networks the continuous monitoring of the level of insulation is indispensible in order to identify failures and restore the optimal operation of the system. ISL-A 600 is realised in order to execute this task for networks in direct current up to 600 V, moreover, thanks to the positive safety relay, it is in a position to carry out a timely monitoring even in case of a power failure. This device is ideally located on the DC side of the inverter. Thanks to ISL-A 600 it is possible to optimise the maintenance and the costs connected to plant down times.

To measure the energy produced by a photovoltaic system and to know the consequent earnings derived from the related regulations, a device certified for fiscal use is necessary. The UTF-certified group of measurement serves for this purpose and is inserted in the measure point after the inverter; it is composed of a MID-certified energy meter and by current transformers, chosen on the basis of the rated power of the system. The measurement group is supplied with the calibration certificates issued by the certifying body.

ISL-A 600 DELTAplusInsulation monitoring device

Energy meters and current transformers with UTF-certification


S800 PV-M are suitable for the switch disconnection of the strings of photovoltaic systems up to 1200 V DC. S802PV-M25A 650 V DC has been added to the series for small/medium size systems and inverters below 6 kWp in which the maximum input voltage is less than 650 V DC. All the series can be feeded indifferently from above or below without any restrictions on the polarity.

S800 PV-M

Switch disconnectors

S800 PV-S MCB can be used in networks up to 1200 V DC (four poles versions). The handle in the central position signals a fault. All the series can be feeded indifferently from above or below without any restrictions on the polarity.

S800 PV-S

High performance MCB for Photovoltaic plants

The type B RCD blocks in combination with the S200 MCB ensure the protection of the persons and the installations against the risk of fires, short circuits and surges. They are used for the protection in installations with electronic devices according to EN 50178 and are used on the AC side of the photovoltaic inverter.

OVR PV surge protective devices, designed specifically for the photovoltaic systems and compatible with all the installations types, manage the end of life in total safety and are self-protected up to a short-circuit current of 100 A DC. The TS versions allow to monitor the state of the protection and the extractable cartridges make maintenance even easier.

DDA 200 BOVR PVRCD blocksSurge protective devices

Designed for the protection and the disconnection of photovoltaic circuits up to 1.000 V DC, E 90 PV are ideal for the protection of the strings and the backup of OVR PV surge protective devices. It is possible to equip them with E 9F PV fuses.

The RCCB F 200 B supply protection against the indirect contacts by automatic interruption of the power supply. They are also sensitive to the ground fault currents with modest undulation, assimilable to continuous type ground fault currents.

E 90 PV, E 9F PV

F 200 B

Switch disconnectors and fuses

RCCB

News and facts


Case History

Environmental sensitivity and energy saving


Case History

Transportation and logistics with zero impact in the new headquarters in Cuneo

Logistics and transportation company of Cuneo (Madonna dell'Olmo locality) founded in 1975, North West operates for 35 years

at an international level. Equipped with warehouses for the reception of the goods and the subsequent shipment, the Piedmont company supports the customers also taking care of all the document aspects inherent to shipments entering and leaving our country.

The new directional centre has been realised according to innovative home automation and energetic efficiency concepts has been operational for approximately one year. The strength of the shipping company is all in the skills and the services of the employees and the collaborators.

“We have always invested in the people, the true motor of the company”, explains

Giovanni Battista Mellano, one of the owners, “and this is why over the course of the last years we have created this new structure, trying to render it as welcoming as possible, an ideal workplace for those who work inside”.

To make working in the company even more comfortable a relax zone has been created, with an equipped gym area, a squash court, showers and lunch room, that the employees can use before or after the working hours and during the break. Attentions that usually only the large companies have towards their staff and which the Piedmont company, even though it is relatively small (50 employees), wanted to do.

Making the working atmosphere even more pleasant are the technologically advanced systems, thought out and realised with an environmental sensibility.

“We are a zero impact company: for

Maurizio Gambini: Advertising journalist - Paolo Mellano: Sales manager ABB branch - Turin


Case History

example, we are not connected to the gas network; our energy reserve is nothing else than a water tank which allows us to produce warm water for the heating and the services, by means of a geothermal system with heat pumps, and to distribute the cold water for the environmental conditioning. The heating is underneath the pavement whilst the cooling is supplied by ceiling radiating panel. A solution allows us to have a comfortable atmosphere, with the correct temperature, both in the summer, as well as in winter, which is particularly cold in this area.

Moreover, we produce approximately 200 kW of electric power through an installed photovoltaic system installed on the covers of our warehouses, energy that we partially use and partly sell to the network”.

Automation and controlThe owners had the necessity of being

able to manage all of the systems from a single interface, easily controllable at a distance as well. It was opted, therefore, for an intelligent system for the control and the automation of the building, using ABB i-bus® KNX products.

“We started from a very wide vision during the design phase of the system”, specifies the designer, Mario Pregliasco. “The requirement was to have a zero impact company, where it was also possible to work well. These basic considerations have pushed us towards a philosophy of intelligent automation of the building. On one side we wanted the maximum selectivity from an electrotechnical point of view; in the sense that if a problem arose, the relative consequences had to be as limited as

01


Case History

possible, thanks to a hierarchical system of protection. On the other an effective management was necessary, simple and complete because, within a company like this, it is not easy for those not specifically assigned to the work to be able to have everything under control and it is not even thinkable to dedicate only one person to such a task. For this we have thought of a domestic automation type solution, which embraced the various systems, from the real system to the lighting system - with the manual switches replaced by combined presence and lighting detectors that, based on the presence of the persons in the premises, switched the lights on and off and regulate these in function of the external brightness, an advantage for energetic saving and comfort - from fire prevention to thermoregulation, to

environmental well-being, to the access control, to the acquisition of the data of the production of photovoltaic energy. One of the main elements that have allowed us to conclude this project with success has been above all the trust given to us by the customer, who has fully embraced this philosophy”.

The photovoltaic systemAs we have already said, the photovoltaic

system has been realised on the cover of the warehouse, whilst the control panels, inverter and the transformation cabin are situated on its inside.

“The roof of the warehouse”, illustrates Mario Pregliasco, “was not suitable for a coplanar installation, therefore we have had to study specific structures to position the modules, so that they could have an

Autoreclosing units have been used in the electric panels, fundamental in order to guarantee operational continuity in case of unwanted tripping of the RCCB caused by lightning or electrical disturbances.Following the RCCB tripping, F2C-ARI carries out three attempts to automatically reclose. The F2C-ARI device for industrial use can reclose the 2 and 4 poles RCCB of every sensitivity with rated current up to 100 A.

F2C-ARI

02

01 The technologically advanced systems are managed by a single interface, which can also be easily remote controlled.

02 The relax zone with equipped gym zone which employees can used before or after work or during the lunch break.


optimal exposure to the light.The bidirectional connection in medium

voltage at the delivery point is realised with a buried cable”.

Service redundance and continuityThe pulsing heart of a company like

Nord Ovest is the room where the server of the computer system is housed.

“A large part of the company's work”, confirms Giovanni Battista Mellano, “is based on the data, the connections with the customers. This is the reason why we have invested a lot in hardware and software, but also on the technological systems that had to guarantee the operation under all circumstances: it would be a disaster if we were left without power».

This is the reason why the server room was constructed with particular details, in order to guarantee the operational continuity. “Even if it is very improbable, we had to consider the hypothesis that a photovoltaic module was damaged or a string broke down, at the same time as a network drop”, specifies Mario Pregliasco.

“Taking advantage of the functionalities of the building automation system, we have been able to realise a complete structure, with doubled circuits, in which the electricity-generating set, the UPS and the photovoltaic system are integrated, in order to guarantee the continuity of the electric power supply. It is within this philosophy, automatic self-closing switches have been used in the electric panels, fundamental in order to avoid unwanted trippings provoked by thunderstorms or electrical disturbances.

For that regarding the communications, operational continuity has guided the project. We are connected with fibre optic to a Telecom power plant, whilst a copper line, connected to another power plant, always ensures the service in case the first breaks down.

In other words, we have paid the maximum attention to the redundancy of the systems, perhaps influenced by a common passion, mine and of that to the owner, for scuba diving, where nothing can be left to chance”.

Case History


ABB, not only products“The choice of ABB products”,

concludes Ivo Panero, of Domotica Labs, who has handled the programming of the building automation system, “was born from the common consideration made by professionals that have cooperated in the realisation of the system, that ABB is both a high reliability brand on the electrotechnical plan and, at the same time, offers of a wide and complete range of products for the electrical distribution and the automation of the building, easy to install, to program and to use, and which allowed us to trust building automation systems, thanks to the Konnex protocol. Moreover, ABB has not limited itself to supply the products, but has also contributed with its own experience, offering us precious technical consultancy for the good resolution of the system».

ProfessionalsElectric project Studio Pregliasco MarioMondovì, CN

Electric plantsD & M sas of Dalmasso A. and Meineri A. & CPeveragno, CN

Building automation system projectDomotica LabsEng. Ivo PaneroGenola, CN

Electric wholesalerIDG S.p.a. branch of Cuneoreferent Mr. Emilio Pettiti

Sales manager ABB branch - TurinPaolo Mellano

A realisation which was certainly not easy, completed with the full satisfaction of the expectations of the customer thanks to the team work of the designer Mario Pregliasco, the installer Nino Dalmasso, software manager Ivo Panero and the Cuneo branch of IDG.

The final result has been one of a technologically advanced system, managed in such a simple one, taking advantage of an “easy to use” interface software.

Case History

03

03 Dr. Giovanni Battista Mellano, owner of Nord Ovest is concerned with providing services in the field of international forwarding and customs operations.


Technical

Often we do not notice how much we became dependent on electricity, just how much this is present in our normal

activities. If we woke up one day and found that electricity had disappeared, what would our world be like, our daily life? Let's try and make an idea.

Many people would probably stay in bed till late that day, because they use electronic alarm clocks or the mobile (maybe even charging during the night before) to wake up. Another sensation that many would suffer is an unpleasant climate: if it's summer, hot, because the conditioning systems can not be turned on; if winter, cold, because the heating systems would not work.

And then the first pratical problems, even though we've only arrived at the kitchen: the freezer loses water because the ice melts, the cooker can not be turned on, the microwave doesn't work. Clearly, all of this would be in the dark.

At the beginning we would behave like in the case of a simple black out, with some portable battery powered lamps and some candles, which would end quite soon, without considering all the people that would remain blocked in lifts, undergrounds, trains, without being able to call anybody, neither with alarms, telephones, because everything is now dependent on electric power.

It would be difficult to understand what has happened, since our sources

of information are all intrinsically linked to electricity. Television, radio, Internet and telephone would not work and neither would we have any help from the newspapers: these would not be available because they are printed with electronic machines.

And don’t expect to rely on mobile phones; the mobile phone, even if charged, would not help us since the network and its telephone central must be fed with electricity.

All of the extolled current globalisation would be missing, it would be difficult to get into contact with persons in the same city or those close by and it would be difficult to think about getting into contact persons further away, in other states and continents. People would begin to feel lost after a couple of hours.

The more obvious thing would be to go out, to go to the Police, relatives and friends, to try and get some kind of explanation. Would it be possible to go by car? Certainly, but only until your full tank lasts, because then the gas stations, with their electric pumps, would not work anymore. And obviously, during the night there would be no street lighting or traffic light signals.

The accessible petrol resources would be very limited and, in any case, exhaustible in a short time, given the impossibility of having any industry for the refining. Hospitals would have enormous problems when the stock for the diesel generators is finished - the current would not be available with the consequent impossibility

A world without electricityAn imaginative and unsettling picture to think of the future with seriousness and commitment.Emanuele Tosatti: Product Manager Modular devices ABB S.p.A. - ABB SACE Division


Technical

of assisting thousands of people dependent on the electronic machinery.

The run on the supermarkets would begin where many products would be unusable, because they are in the refrigerators which are now switched off. And paying would not be simple given that the bills are often electronic. The value of the money, as we know it would cease to be as we know, as it would no longer be possible to print it with the same techniques.

The situation which would evolve over the days can be just imagined: to use the word 'evolve' would already be inopportune because in reality it would be a total reversal of the growth trend of our society, a real barbarization and a return to the nearly medieval state. The majority of current employments would no longer be possible with the almost total disappearance of all the employees. There would be an impetus towards the handicraft professions, even if currently even these are strongly influenced by electric/electronic machinery. A return to the countryside to in some way to find enough food is not improbable

with the consequent slow, but inexorable, transformation of our society.

And then the worst of the disasters: we would not even be able to let you read Day by DIN anymore!

Some thoughtsDon't be afraid, this is pure science

fiction! Nuclear, thermoelectric (oil, gas or coal), hydroelectric, geothermal, aeolic, solar and other technologies still offer enormous potentialities for energy production, allowing us to live in the world as we now see it, with the pervasive presence of electricity in all the human activities, as we have already noted previously.

Our planet is very rich in resources for energy production, but these are out infinite, asides from not having a uniform distribution. Unfortunately, this knowledge has only been gained over the last decades and we have wasted a lot during the preceding periods.

The imaginative (and at times, alarming) story is meant as a stimulus to reflecting on the availability of current energy. Because,

even though an energy source can be clean, economic and renewable, it will always have an environmental cost (landscape, production, system) whilst the only true clean energy is that which we can all “produce” through our daily saving. Each one of us can help by adding lots of small drops into the sea of energetic saving; this sea will be one of the many that will, in future, contribute to forming the great ocean of clean energy production.


History and surroundings

Electricity is by now an integral part in the life of everyone of us; it is nearly impossible to find a place where it is not present. We

want to show you how this revolution has developed in Italy, with all the innovations and the contradictions that have rendered the nearly 130 years of Italian electricity history fascinating.

As in many other cases, the history of electric power in continental Europe is due thanks to Italian initiative, more precisely alongside the Madonnina del Duomo di Milano, in via Radegonda Saint.

The father of Italian electric power was Giuseppe Colombo who, after having assisted in a demonstration of the technology of Edison at the universal exhibition in Paris, decided to import it in Italy, winning for himself the exclusive.

On July 24th 1882, therefore, the “Committee for the electric power applications, Edison system” was founded with the purpose of importing and diffusing the architecture developed by the famous American scientist. Once the suitable headquarters had been selected - an old disused theatre in via Santa Radegonda - the demolition of the previous building and the construction of the new building for the power plant began quickly.

The coal boilers were placed on the first floor whilst the dynamos (the famous “Jumbo” dynamos, as we will see later) and alternatives steam machines were on the ground floor. A 52 metre tall chimney was built for the elimination of the combustion gas, very visible beside the Cathedral in photographs of the time.

The purpose of the power plant was to illuminate the streets at the centre of

Emanuele Tosatti: Product Manager Modular devices ABB S.p.A. - ABB SACE Division

History of electric energy in ItalyThe dawn, the pioneers, the first power plants


History and surroundings

Milan; the position therefore turned out to be highly favourable, as there were no problems connected to the transport of the electric power, one of the critical points to be dealt with.

Once installed, the power plant used four dynamos, for a total of approximately 350 kW overall: ridiculous by present standards but more than sufficient for the age (and the relative users) switching on 4800 incandescent light bulbs, supplied with 100÷110 V in direct current. Values that linked to the nickname Jumbo, the name of the famous elephant of the Barnum circus.

The distribution of the energy occured in the roads close to the power plant, including the more elegant and fashionable premises of the Milan of the age, facing the gallery or the porticos of piazza Duomo, asides from the Manzoni theatre and the La Scala theatre.

The lighting of these was not casual: they were, in fact, the only ones in a position to pay the cost of the electrical lighting system which was double that of the gas usually used during the age (it is interesting to note that the gas supply company for the lighting decreased its prices prior to the installation of the power plant).

It was inaugurated on the 28th of June 1883, but its importance and the memory of all of the Milanese was consecrated on the first January of 1884 with the contemporary lighting of 2880 incandescent filament lamps for the first night at La Scala (during this time held on New Year's Day).

To transport the current to the theatre a

distribution line was realised by the engineer Pirelli, a great supporter of the Colombo project, composed of interconnected six metre long iron tubes inside of which were copper slabs wrapped with tar paper.

The show was marvellous so much so that the Corriere della Sera wrote: “Those who propose to apply the electric lighting system on a large-scale in our city had a the largest, most serious and clamorous of successes”.

The problems deriving from the limits of the current transmission distance of the Edison system made the life of power plant shorter than foreseen (two years later the “Jumbo” dynamos were already replaced with eight more efficient Thomson-Houston dynamos, more suitable to street lighting system, to which the power plant was to supply following the agreement between Edison and the communal Administration), but it was definately the start of the fascinating and long history of electric power in Italy and continental Europe.

Sources:http://www.it.pirelli.com/“History of the group” section

http://www.storiadimilano.it/“Milan technique” section

The products and the names of the brands cited in this article may be considered as brands and registered trademarks of the respective owners.

01

02

01 Aerial photograph of the city of Milan at the end of the 19th century: a part of the Cathedral can be seen on the left and the electric power plant can be recognised by the brick chimney to the right.

02 Engineer Giuseppe Colombo


Technical


Technical

Always in time with your requirementsABB D Line digital time switches range

The digital time switches are suitable for applications in environments and situations in which you wish to manage the

loads with a temporal programming sufficiently flexible to foresee or exclude the activation depending on the hour, the day, the week or the month.

ABB D Line series of time switches has its own inner temporal reference, a quartz oscillator, that allows it to function, guaranteeing an accuracy of 1 second a day in normal environmental conditions.

There are, however, situations in which the operating accuracy of the time switch is not sufficient, for example in public systems or in panels which are not constantly supervised, where it is not possible to frequently reset the exact hour, but a good time synchronisation is required. Typical example: the bell of a school, the apartment block boiler or the lighting of a monument.

In these cases it is useful to maintain the synchronisation of the time switch through a standard time signal receiving antenna.

Innovations for the radio controlled time switches

A time switch can be radio-controlled, meaning that it is equipped with an antenna that allows it to be synchronised through the reference radio signals issued by special stations.

The antenna model D DCF77 receives radio waves sent from a terrestrial

station close to Mainflingen, in Germany (50° 01’ N, 09° 00’ E), with 50 kW of power.

The issuer has a cover of approximately 2.000÷2.500 km, modulat ing on 77,5 kHz an impulsive signal that contains, in the arc of 60 second, the information on time of the following minute. Usually the signal reaches an elevated accuracy, dependent however on imprecisions and variations of the radio propagation conditions. In fact, sometimes it is obscured by atmospheric perturbations and occasionally the emitter is disactivated for maintenance or during local storms; the signal is then, therefore, received in a discontinuous manner. Moreover, not all localities can be covered due to shadow zones caused by the presence of some obstacles such as high voltage pylons on the territory, large buildings or disturbances such as the switching on and off of electrical equipment, lightnings, etc., above all in countries which are a distance from the issuer.

Finally, a large part of the electronic equipment can be the source of such radio frequency disturbances which can completely inhibit the reception of the signal.

When receivers are used, therefore, the orientation of the receiver must be taken into consideration and the installation zone removed from any equipment electronic. The DCF77 signal is definitely present in Italy, France, Germany, Spain, Poland and has been successfully tested in England with a good reception.

GlossaryRadio controlled timer

A time switch can be radio-controlled, meaning that it is equipped with an antenna that allows it to be synchronised through the reference radio signals issued by special stations.

Antenna DCF77Receives the DCF77 radio synchronisation signal transmitted from the atomic clock installed at Mainflingen, near Frankfurt (Germany).

Antenna GPSReceives the radio time signal from the Global Positioning System (GPS), positioning system on satelllite with global and continuous cover.

2500 km

2000 km

1500 km

1000 km

500 km

DCF


Technical

For those who wish, instead, a global cover without risks of signal interruption, ABB proposes the new D GPS antenna, which uses the signal coming from the Global Positioning System and offers a more precise value with regards to the terrestrial transmissions.

The GPS system combines the time supplied from various atomic clocks installed on the edge of system satellites, whilst a net of terrestrial stations determines and corrects the errors, compensating the propogation delays.

The GPS signal is almost disturbance proof, thanks to the high transmission frequency of 1,575 GHz. The incoming data from at least 4 satellites are used for the calculation of the 3D position. On average 7÷9 satellites are visible if the antenna has a clear view towards the horizion. This means that the time information is available 100%. Even if half of the horizon is covered, availability reaches 90÷95%.

Thanks to the absence of disturbances,

the extreme precision, the complete cover and the rapid and diffused world-wide development, in the next few years the GPS will completely replace the DCF77 signal in all industrial fields. The GPS system could not, moreover, be removed without being adequately replaced within the next 20÷30 years.

Filippo Negroni:Product ManagerModular DevicesABB S.p.A. - ABB SACE Division

Cor

rect

ion

sign

al fr

om s

atel

lite

Radio beacon for the GPS

Correction differential signal

GPS differential in real time

GPS satellites

Mobile receivers


Technical

Main differences between the DCF77 and GPS signals

GPS DCF77

Use location worldwide in a range of 2500 km from Frankfurt

Immunity to

interferences

The high frequency and the phase

modulation of the signal ensure an

elevated immunity to disturbances

due to electronic noise.

Due to the low frequency and the

amplitude modulation of the signal

the DCF77 is susceptible to many

interferences, such as atmospheric

perturbations, magnetic and electric

fields.

Precision Short term good accuracy at ±1 μs Short term scarse accuracy, usually

between ±5÷±25 ms

The standard application, for which the GPS antenna is used together with the digital clock is used, is the synchronisation of the time of one or more time switches installed in various zones, often not supervised.A typical example can be given by the various centres of a bank that require, for example, the relative lighting systems to be switched on at the same time, or the company that has to sound the siren at the same moment in its various yards, etc. In other words, where there exists the necessity of commutating one or more relays at the same precise moment, even if these are installed in various distant places, thousands of kilometres one from the other.

GPS antenna application


New standards: a protection always more completeThe safety of SPDs for photovoltaics and the commitment of ABB

We have spoken about this in the first issue of Day by DIN and return to speak of it today in a more in-depth

manner: one of requirements that characterises all SPDs is safety.

The SPD, once it reaches the end of its operating life, usually after tens or hundreds of discharges, shall not catch fire or damage other devices present in the panel. For this, the manufacturers usually provide SPD characterised by an end-of-life in short circuit - typically all those based on varistor technology - with a backup protection, fuse or circuit breaker. The issue becomes even more important on the direct current side of a photovoltaic system, for two main reasons: the short circuit current is close to the rated current and the high voltage in direct current requires suitable and coordinated short circuit interruption devices.

Finally a guide for photovoltaic SPDTill now, the only technical reference for

safety protection of the SPD in photovoltaic application was paragraph 9.2.3 of the IEC 82.25:2008 guide. In this paragraph a back up protection is recommended coordinated to the SPD, leaving the manufacturer with the responsibility of the coordination.

The new UTE(1) C 61-740-51 came into

force a few months ago, the first guide in the world to introduce surge protection criteria which take into accout the specificity of the photovoltatic generators.

The new standard defines test and safety criteria for surge protective devices used in photovoltaic systems; given their peculiar characteristics of high voltage and low short circuit currents in direct current, it introduces the principle of verifying the behaviour of the end of life of photovoltaic SPD, when a SPD completes its operating effectiveness and endangers the safety of the system.

In order to attest to the conformity to the aforesaid UTE standard, the manufacturer of SPDs must supply the following information:– “PV” symbol on the product;– voltage Ucpv, that is maximum continuative

voltage in a photovoltaic environment;– Rated discharge current (In)– maximum discharge or impulse current, Iimp

o Imax, according to the SPD, respectively, of Class 1 or Class 2;

– protection level Up;– short circuit whithstands current in direct

current Iscwpv.SPD verified in...photovoltaics!

According to UTE, only the SPD in conformity with the UTE C 61-740-51 guide and which have the performances listed above can be used in photovoltaic systems. Amongst the requirements of

Frédéric Camelet: Product Manager Modular devices ABB S.p.A. - ABB SACE Division

Technical

Glossary

SPDSurge Protective Device, definition of the surge arrester according to the International standards.

Type 2 surge protective deviceSurge protective device designed to discharge the energy associated with an indirect lightning strike or a manoeuvre on the network. The test parameter is the discharge current with waveshape 8/20 µs (Test Class II).

Rated discharge current (In)This is the discharge current with waveshape 8/20 μs that the Type 2 surge protective device is able to discharge towards earth at least 20 consecutive times, without deteriorating.

Protection level Up

It characterises the ability of the surge protective device to limit the voltage between its terminals in the presence of a surge; the value of the protection level, selected from a list of preferential values, is greater than the most high residual voltages measured in the Test Class I or II.


the new standard, the manufacturer must verify the end of life behaviour of the SPD photovoltaics and ensure that, in presence of the short circuit current Iscwpv, to the voltage Ucpv, the SPD does not reach an overtemperature which involves a risk of fire or damage to the equipment

OVR PV the first in safety, always!ABB has always promoted attention

to the safety of the SPDs of photovoltaic systems. The OVR PV range is specifically designed for the protection of overvoltage in photovoltaic systems, is equipped with an exclusive thermal disconnector with performances in direct current and its technical documentation has always certified the way of protection from end of life short-circuit, a long time before these data became required by the CEI 82.25 guide and, subsequently, the UTE.

OVR PV SPDs are in conformity with the requirements of the UTE C 61-740-51 standard at the time of its entering into force.

Note:1) UTE: l’Union Technique de l’Electricité et de la Communication is the French electrotechnical committee and is a member of the International Electrotechnical commission (IEC) and the European committe of Electrotechnical normalisation (CENELEC).

Technical

26 Day by DIN 2|11

Technical

OVR PV thermal disconnectorOVR PV photovoltaic surge protective

devices contain varistors which are subject to slight wear at each electric discharge. After many years of use (on average twenty), their electric resistance diminishes considerably and allows a current flow that becomes dangerous. This causes overheating which damages the product. This is called the end of life of the SPD,

which must be disconnected from the network supply to prevent the risk of fire. Given the difficulty in opening an electric arc in direct current, ABB has developed and patented a thermal disconnector able to disconnect the end of life SPD in safety.

The operat ing of the thermal disconnector on the OVR PV is explained in the figure.

An electric arc can spark between two electrodes because of the voltage present at their edges. The extinction of the arc is more complex in direct current than in alternating current because the current never crosses zero.

Difference between an electric arc in alternating or direct current, indicative values for a current of 10 A:

Minimum distance between the electrodes to switch off the arc

400V alternating current

600V direct current

1000V direct current

0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20

- Switching off may take place at smaller distances, for example by quickly separating two electrodes.

- The thermal disconnector contained in OVR PV photovoltaic SPDs is able to extinguish the electric arc thanks to the fast opening of the contact and the isolation of the parts with insertion of an obstacle in the path of the arc.

How long is an electric arc?

Operating principle of the SPD when it has not reached the end of life

At the end of life, the opening of the thermal disconnector and ignition of an electric arc

in direct current

Extinction of the electric arc with the intervention of the patented device

Frédéric CameletProduct ManagerModular DevicesABB S.p.A. - ABB SACE Division

Day by DIN 2|11

The E 90 range. Designed by ABB for the most demanding customers

ABB SACEA division of ABB S.p.A.Modular DevicesTel. 02 9034.1www.abb.it

Disconnecting and switching suitability, efficient dissipation of heat and certifiedaccording to several international Standards are essential requirements to satisfy theexpectations of the most demanding clients.ABB has dedicated the passion, skill and creativity of its designers to the developmentof a new range of E 90 fuse switch disconnectors and fuse holders.The result is the first fuse switch disconnector AC-22B IMQ and UR approved up to 32 A and 690 V.http://www.abb.com/abblibrary/DownloadCenter/ - 2CSC444002B0902


Technical

Guideline for the design of systems in residential environment

Note:1) According to the data supplied by the GSE in reference to the subsidies of the second feed in tariff, there are 162, 365 photovoltaic systems installed in Italy, for a rated power equal to 3.564.883 kW. The power segment 1÷3 kW is composed of 64,000 systems (39,4% of the total), for an accumulated rated power equal to 174.466 kW (4,9% of the total).

2) Given the speed of the evolution of the ministerial provisions, with relative rectifications and specifications, at the moment of printing this issue of Day by DIN the information available today could already be old; today the reference is to my hopes, first ten days of March 2011.

Residential photovoltaic systems

Although less then 5% of the installed power, the systems of rated power up to 3 kW represent, as numerosity, nearly

40% of the photovoltaic systems installed in Italy with the second feed in tariff 1). The small systems on the roofs are, moreover, those which “are hoped” will endure “less disincentivisation” with the advent of the new provisions of next issue 2).

In fact, if we consider the moribund “third feed in tariff”, the subsidies of the systems “on the buildings” up to 3 kW have been subjected, since 1st January 2011, to a cut of 4.74% 3); whilst, for example, the large systems on the greenhouses, have been subjected to a greater decrease of 30%.

That above demonstrates how the domestic systems will increasingly cover a "standard" housing and, consequently, system quality. This short article has, therefore, the purpose of suggesting guideline in relation to the selection of the system for the realisation of systems connected to residential facilities or the so-called “micro companies”.

Before starting the coverage we want to caution against that which is easily disposed of as the field “of Mrs. Jones” which instead hides end customers that live in single family houses and that, consequently, know, in the overwhelming majority of the cases, the subject of “financial investments” all too well.

The preparation of the installer must, therefore, concentrate on aspects

connected to: planning, supply of materials, professional installation of the system, handling of the authorisation processes, administrative processes for the connection to the freenet and administrative processes with the GSE (Authority for the Energetic Services) to obtain the feed in tariff subsidies. The preparation of the installer must be aimed at ensuring the correct information during the offer phase and the best guarantees in terms of fluidity of the procedures and warranty of the product.

In this article we will deal with the description of the typical outline of a photovoltaic system composed of a single string of modules4). Obviously, without claiming to replace the standards in force and the professionality and the personal experience of the personnel operating in the field.

Typical layoutsWe have tried to standardise the

applications as much as possible, reducing to 4 specific cases of systems.This standardisation imposes simplification and the common initial conditions relative to the user system. The different case histories are referred to in the structure of the building.

Consider that the meter in the connection point (M1 exchange meter) is installed in premises on the ground floor or the basement floor.

The typical user is characterised by a general consumer unit in plastic, Class II, in which a RCBO is installed with residual

Eng. Massimo Monopoli: designer and specialised consultant in photovoltaic systems


Technical

current equal to 30 mA. So as not to assume responsibility with respect to the certification of the consumer unit (whether it is present or not) and to the conformity of the professionality of the system (whether it is present or not), we will not touch anything that is inside or downstream from this consumer unit. Those who do are aware that the MD 37/08 is sufficiently precise to identify who is responsible.

According to the guide to the connection to the ENEL Distribution mains, which whilst we are waiting for the other standard regarding the low voltage, CEI 0-16, is the more authoritative document regarding connections in low voltage, the active and passive users must have a single Mains Disconnector (MD), able to isolate the user from the utility (excluding that which the utility always puts in the meter). The MD must, therefore, be installed upstream from the passive utility and the production plant.

As there is already a 30 mA RCD

protecting the passive user (if not there, either you mount it, or you run away quickly), it is advisable to install a MCB or a switch disconnector as MD, and to verify that the system downstream up to the RCD is in Class 2 and protects against the overcurrent. In fact, if we insert here the protection of the photovoltaic system, each isolation breakdown on the generator would cause the release of the passive utility.

Now it is clear that, if we decide to protect our inverter against the atmospheric discharges and the passive utility is not already supplied, it is best to immediately install the SPD in alternating current downstream from the MD: in this way protection will also be provided for the passive utility.

Having performed our duties with the ENEL guide and improved the condition of the passive user, we can begin to install our photovoltaic system.

3) Comparison between the “system partially integrated 2010”/” system on buildings first quarter 2011” tarifs. If compared with the “integrated system”, the decrease in the subsidy has been 14,47%.

4) This is perfectly valid for systems composed of even 2 and 3 module strings. Beyond this number the behavior of the system in case of short circuit on the direct current side or in case of shadowing or darkening of a part of the system must be verified. This behaviour is, in fact, highly variable depending on the technology of the modules used.

+

–

Id

M2 M1Id

IdIdINVERTER IFVD G

SdcSac

Iac


Variant 1Figure 1 shows the typical outline of a

system in which the M1 meter is installed in a location with sufficient space to contain the inverter and the electromechanical devices relative to the photovoltaic system.

In the roof/inverter path there is no way to intercept the direct current (composed of 2 FG21M21 cables of from 4 or 6 milimeter2).

In this case, the system on the direct current side is limited to the presence of a switch disconnector in category DC 21, guaranteed by the manufacturer for the voltage calculated at the minimum temperature, and the protection against the atmospheric surges to safeguard the inverter on the direct current side (if then the d.c cable is shorter than 10 m, it also serves as a protection for the photovoltaic modules).

It is to be noted that if the manufacturer of the inverter guarantees the presence of these devices inside, the system on the direct current side would be reduced to two cables entering in the terminal board of the inverter according to the instructions of the manufacturer.

A switch disconnector (Iac) 2 x 32 A is installed on the alternating current side (or coordinated with the MCB) between the inverter and the production meter (M2). Up to 20 kW of rated power of the photovoltaic system, M2 is installed by the utility. It should be noted that this switch disconnector does not have any function but allowing an easy installation and maintenance of the M2 meter.

For protection against indirect contacts, to safeguard the photovoltaic system, a RCBO (IFV) in class B (or class A, if

the manufacturer of the inverter signs the guarantees provided by standard CEI 64-8 article 712.413.1.1.1.2, meaning the manufacturer must guarantee that their product is not for any such construction to inject direct currents of earth fault in the electric system on the AC side) is installed.

In any case, given the propensity of the photovoltaic system to disperse capacitive current to earth (approximately 3÷4 per kW), we recommend the differential installation from 300 mA.

For the choice of the MCB a C curve MCB can be trusted, according to Standard EN 60898, with rated current of 16A for systems of 3 kW, of 25 A for systems of 4,5 kW and 32 A for 6kW power systems. Above 6 kW you enter into the field of the three-phase systems and leave the objectives of this present article.

Variant 2In the event (figure 2) in which there is an

access to the photovoltaic modules through a local attic, the installation of a further direct current panel containing a DC 21 switch disconnector and a SPD protection is highly advisable. It is worth remembering the fundamental importance of the fact that the SPD for direct current side must be suitable for the "Photovoltaic” application and coordinated with the maximum voltage provided in the operating of the system.

With regards to variant 1, in the “counters” area everything remains unchanged, whilst it is very comfortable to have a point of isolation and a protection against the surges close to the modules.

Variant 3In case of the presence of an accessible

area in the immediate vicinity of the modules (figure 3), it could be practical to move the inverter to this area as well.

For that which concerns to direct current side please refer to variant 1. If the manufacturer of the inverter guarantees the presence of a switch disconnector and an SPD with the characteristics required by the standards, the installation of the same devices in the immediate vicinity is redundant.

The alternating current side, however, needs a double isolator: one in the immediate vicinity of the inverter, in order to allow for easy maintenance, and one immediately downstream from the M2 counter, in order to facilitate the starting up and maintenance operations of the measurement group.

Variant 4As a final variant we report (figure 4)

the case in which a local attic is easily accessible for the staff of the utility, allowing the installation of the M2 meter in the immediate vicinity of the modules.

In this case, the only system variation regarding the previous case is the position of the M2 meter, with the relative possibility of isolating in the immediate vicinity, both up as well as downstream.

Figure 1

Technical

Loads

+

–

M1

Idc

Id

M2 Id

IdId

+

–

INVERTER IFVD G

SdcSac

Iac

IacIdc

Sdc

Sac

Idc

Sdc

Iac Iac

Sac


Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Technical

Loads

Loads

Loads

32 Day by DIN 2|11

The expert answers

Television and electricity: just how these two elements intersect is very interesting. Not only for the obvious connection due to the operation of the first by means of the second, but also for the variation in consumption, on a national scale, in relation to TV programming. A really interesting example is from the 4th of July 2006: a special event is programmed, the world cup semifinal 2006, Italy -Germany which

was fortunately won by the Azzurri. During the match the national consumption went down to 2.500 MW, thanks to the number of meeting places and the habit of watching the match with the lights out. The non-consumed value is equal to that normally used for supplying an immense city such as Rome for a number of hours. A really big ... saving!

The longest submarine cable for the transport of electric power in the world runs between the city of Feda in Norway and the port of Eemshaven, in the Netherlands. The line runs for 580 km and was built by ABB with highly innovative technology and solutions. The cable allows Norway to export “clean” electric power, produced solely by hydroelectric power plants, thus enabling Holland to lower its own amount of CO2 emitted. The cable moreover has a bidirectional function meaning that, in the case of an energy emergency, Norway imports the required power from Holland. The technical characteristics of the cable

are particularly interesting: two conductors, isolated each from the other by means of cellulose soaked with oil, with a direct current at ± 450 kV and very limited dispersions of about 3.7% of the current transported. Moreover, because of the particular type of sandy 'dune' beds found in the first section from Holland, very high mechanical performances was foreseen, able to resist the powerful stress caused by the continuous movements of the seabed.

An airplane fed by solar energy through panels on the fuselage is still far away from perfection by man, not for the animal world. Israeli researchers have, in fact, discovered that the vespa orientalis, an insect which is, among other things, present in our southern regions, takes advantage of a sort of photovoltaic solar paddle in order to obtain electricity, to then use it for functions connected to the metabolism such as, for example, the search for food. This panel is constituted of a band of yellow on the abdomen, in a part composed of xantoferina, a pigment that allows the

conversion of solar into electric energy. Nature does nothing by chance and the presence of this particular pigment, in fact, influences the structure of the entire body, which is formed in such a way as to concentrate the solar beams where they serve. This study could lead to a number of innovations in the field of renewable energy as well: the researchers have, in fact, created a photovoltaic cell with the same substance, successfully obtaining the conversion of solar light into electric power, even if the yield is very low for the time being.

CuriosityElectric power and modernity: new scenarios, new possibilities

When the cheers increase, consumption decreases

580 km of technology and collaboration

Flying with solar energy: learning from wasps

Day by DIN 2|11

S802PV-M25 and OTM switch-disconnectors. Two reliable types, one absolute safety.


S802PV-M25 with maximum voltage of 650 V AC is a switch-disconnector to be used downstream photovoltaic strings; it can be feeded from both sides and with interchanging terminals ensures, in only 3 modules, the safety of the system during maintenance. The OTM switch-disconnector series is suitable for the disconnection between the photovoltaic field and the inverter and covers voltages up to 750 V AC. The OTM series can be equipped with auxiliary contacts and rotary handle compatible with the OT series accessories. http://www.abb.com/abblibrary/DownloadCenter/ - 2CSC413003L0901 - 2CSC301001B0901


Technical

Safety and services to the residential electric systems


Technical

The reference standard for the electric systems since ever, CEI 64-8 on February 2011 has widened the capacity of the classic objectives of protection and safety introducing, with the Variant 3, the criteria which must be fulfilled when realising residential electric systems in order to ensure the minimum requirements of the system performances and functionality.

The Variant 3 of standard CEI 64-8 was published by the Italian electro-technical committee containing the new appendix A:

“Residential environments – System performances” and the ensuing amendment in some articles of Part 3 and Part 5 of CEI 64-8.

To integrate the prescriptions reported in the general sections already existing in the standard, which have the purpose of guaranteeing the safety of people and assets, appendix A introduces the rules and recommendations relative to the performances of the residential wirings systems, by far the most diffuse, with regard to that which no precise reference

Maurizio Gambini: Advertising journalist

existed in the Italian technical standards until now.

Appendix A is an additional "Standard” and it will, therefore, be obligatory to apply it from September 1st 2011 for the Declaration of Conformity to be issued according to the Systems standard 64-8 of the new systems (with the exception of those in the valuable for art and history buildings which are subject to Legislative decree 42/2044: “Cultural heritage and landscape code, pursuant to article 10 of Law July 6th 2002, no. 37”).

The prescriptions also apply to the complete refurbishment of the existing electrical systems, carried out during the restructuring of the real estate unit.


Technical

Classification based on the system performances

In the new appendix A a classification for “levels” of the electrical systems in the rooms, in relation to the performances of the system and to the number of terminal circuits, has been introduced for the first time.

The levels according to which the systems must be classified are 3, each of which is distinguished by a minimal operating facility and a minimal subdivision of the terminal circuits, according to the length in metres of the apartment.

The first level is the basic level, required for the conformity of the system to standard CEI 64-8 and provides:- a minimum number of points/outlets

and points/lights based on the length in metres and the typology of each room;

- a minimum number of circuits base on the length in metres of the apartment;

- at least 2 RCD in order to guarantee an adequate operational continuity.

This basic level guarantees the user not only a safe system but also one with an adequately operating level.

Level 2, with regards to level 1, provides an increase in the equipment and the components asides from some auxiliary services such as the video-entry phone, the alarm intrusion system and the load control device.

Level 3, asides from a further increase in the equipment, introduces the home automation, which is also advantageous

for the energy savings inside the home. To be considered as home automation, the system must manage at least, for example, four of the following functions: intrusion alarm, loads control, light management control, temperature management, scenario management, remote control, sound diffusion system, fire detection, anti-flooding and/or gas detection system.

The levels are not connected to the cadastral categories and the energy performance classes of the real estate, but from today the quality of a real estate unit also concur with the performances of the electric system.

Available power based on the surfaceAccording to standard CEI 64-8 V3,

the inhabited surface, together with the preselected performance level, becomes the parameter for the definition of the minimum number of circuits and the other obligatory minimum equipment. The surface to consider is that which is walkable, expressed in square meters, excluding any additions to the home such as box or gardens from the area measured.

In the new variant V3 (CEI 64-8, section A.2) it is prescribed that the electric systems are dimensioned for a useable power of at least 3 kW, in inhabited units up to 75 m2 and of 6 kW for larger surfaces, independent of the performance level and the contract that the customer will stipulate with utility.

Level 1Minimum obligatory for conformity with standard CEI 64-8 guarantess the user

a system which is not only safe but also

with a sufficient operational level

Level 3The third level indicates an special innovative system and foresees,

amongst other things, the home automation functions as well.

Level 2Provides more services such as a larger number of current and circuit outlets, the video-entry phone

and the control of the electric loads.

0101 Table of the 3 levels foreseen by the Standard

L (m) 3 kW cdt% 4,5k W cdt% 6 kW cdt%

<10 6 (1,5) (1,48%) 6 (2,5) (1,33%) 6 (4) (1,11%)

<20 6 (1,5) (2,95%) 6 (2,5) (2,66%) 6 (4) (2,21%)

<30 6 (2,5) (2,66%) 6 (4) (2,49%) 6 2,22%

<50 6 (4) (2,76%) 6 2,77% 10 2,15%

<75 6 2,77% 10 2,42% 16 2,07%

<100 10 2,15% 16 2,07% 16 2,76%

<130 10 2,80% 16 2,69% 25 2,34%

<160 16 2,22% 25 2,16% 25 2,88%

SPDfor the residential OVR PLUS is an autoprotected SPD for the TT single phase systems. Designed for the home and small offices, thanks to its extremely reduced level of protection they are ideal to safeguard the most delicate equipment from overvoltage of atmospheric origin or manoeuvres: LCD and plasma televisions, com-puter, household appliances.

OVR PLUS


Technical

Dimensioning of the feederWith the V3 variant the noted sizing

criteria and the protection of the feeder continue to be valid to which the obligation of a minimum section equal to 6 mm2 (CEI 64-8, article A.3.1) is added.

In case the feeder is not realised “without ground” (double insulation or equivalent insulation), a RCBO must be installed at its base, selective regarding all the RCBOs situated downstream (CEI 64-8, article A.3.2), in order to guarantee protection from indirect contacts.

Choosing the consumer panelThe residential consumer unit represents

the heart of the electric system and its proportions must be determined taking into consideration any possible extensions meaning that a free space representing 15% must be on hand (for any future extensions), with the possibility of inserting a minimum number of two modules (CEI 64-8, article A.4.1).

The main protection earth which connects the earth system of the building with the home, must directly reach the consumer panel (CEI 64-8, article A.4.1).

This new prescription was inserted with the purpose of enabling an effective installation of the surge protective devices (SPD).

The V3 variant (CEI 64-8, article A.4.1) furthermore prescribes the installation of a general switch in the electric panel of the apartment, located in a position which is easily accessible to the customer (in the main arrival panel if there is more than one). The availability of a mains switch allows voltage to be switched off centrally for whole installation.

The standard prescribes that the switches of the consumer unit are easy

identifiable through, for example, a label (CEI 64-8, article 514.1).

Residual current devicesThe residual current devices are the

devices which guarantee the safety of people.

The V3 variant (article A.4.2) prescribes the parallel subdivision of the terminal circuits of the home on at least two residual current devices.

The maximum horizontal selectivity is obviously obtained using a separate RCD for each circuit which means installing RCBOs for the protection of the terminal circuits which couple protection from overcurrent and earth fault in only one device. In this way, a failure in a device or a part of the system will not effect the other circuits, ensuring the maximum operational continuity.

Standard CEI 64-8 V3 (article A.4.2 and comment to article 531.2.1) recommends the use of A type RCD - suitable for indifferently detecting both alternating differential currents as well as pulsating unidirectional differential currents which can be obtained with some devices equipped with electronic power circuits - for the circuits that feed:- washing machines;- fixed air conditioners.

Finally, in order to ensure an adequate operational continuity, the new standard (article A.4.2 ) recommends using RCD with elevated immunity against surges and/or RCBOs equipped with automatic reclosing devices (SRD).

02

02 The dimension of assembly based on the length, the power to be guaranteed to the system and the voltage drop percentage


Technical

Obligatory vertical selectivity between the RCD

The V3 variant makes the selectivity between the RCD compulsory (CEI 64-8, article A.3.2)

The standard, in fact, prescribes that any RCD placed at the base of mounting, is totally selective in regards to the RCD located downstream from it.

Two alternatives are possible for the mains switch of the consumer unit (that placed in the home) if it is the RCD:- using a selective RCD;- using a RCD equipped with an automatic

reclosing device (for example, F2C-ARH greenlight), which does not, however, guarantee operational continuity, but only its automatic restoration.

Protection against overvoltagesThe surge protective devices, also

known as SPD, have the function of preventing the damages due to surges caused by lightning, direct or indirect, or by manoeuvres on the net (less dangerous, but more frequent).

The standard CEI 64-8 (art. 443,3) specifies that the necessity of the installation of the SPD, and of any other lightning protective devices, depends on the lightning risk assessment, carried out based on standard CEI 81-10 (EN 62305). Furthermore, the standard (CEI 64-8, Section 534) provides prescriptions for the correct choice and installation of the SPD's.

The innovations introduced by Annex A to standard CEI 64-8 regards the specifications that it is insufficient to consider the risk of damages to the persons for the domestic electric systems classified at level 3. For a level 3 system, the installer/designer must also guarantee protection against surges able to cause damage to equipment, installing suitable surge protective devices in the consumer unit.

03

03 Example of vertical selectivity on differential failure

RCDselective300 mA - type S

RCD30 mA

Click!


Technical

Events

ABB at Solarexpo Verona, 4th- 6th May 2011. ABB participates in the 12th edition of the international exhibition and convention on renewable energy and distributed generation as a qualified supplier of systems, products and services for all types of applications in the field of alternative and renewable energy.

The ABB offer for energy ranges from the modular solutions for the realisation and the delivery of photovoltaic power plants “turnkey” to the management systems for solar tracker, up to the robotic systems to increase the productivity of the companies that assemble solar paddles.

In the systems for residential, service and industrial buildings, ABB offers a wide range of products and systems for the efficient management of the electric power: equipment and components studied and perfected purposely for the isolation, protection, measurement and the energy conversion from direct to alternating, that responds to the operational necessities and normatives of the applications in the photovoltaic field.

To demonstrate all of our offers and supply all of the information necessary to the visitors, ABB is present in pavillion 7, Stand D8.3 at the Verona trade fair district.

The TV is equipped with a series of devices that are normally connected to the electrical network with annoying plug adapters or multiple outlets. Next to the radio or TV outlet the new variant of the standard foresees the installation of six socket outlets (useful for powering a decoder, multimedia readers, etc.), by installing one or more boxes with suitable space. A socket outlet is furthermore obligatory close to each data or telephone outlet.

Multiplug adapters and multiple outlets: how to replace

Requirements for the control and energy withdrawal points

Another important innovation of the V3 variant of the standard regards the so-called “jumpers” on the terminals of the socket outlets that are allowed if the following conditions are satisfied: - the terminals are designed for this

purpose, or are sized in order to receive the total section of the conductors to connect, the permissible current on these terminals is not lower than that of the circuit (requirement already in force: CEI 64-8, article 526.3, comment);

- the socket outlets to be connected are in the same box or in two subsequent boxes (new requisite: CEI 64-8, article A.3.3).

For the installation of a greater number of socket outlets, or other equipment, in the same circuit, it is, therefore, necessary to provide an adequate number of junction boxes, any secondary consumer unit and trunkings coming there from the beginning.

Standard CEI 64-8 (article 537.5.2) explicitly establishes that the socket outlets must be protected from surges through a rated current device which is lower than the rated current of the socket outlets (at the minimum amongst them if the same device protects various types of outlets).

As an example, therefore, the installation of a 10 A socket outlets in a circuit protected by a 16 A MCB is not permitted. In case of the necessity to distribute an overall greater power, it will be necessary to provide a greater number of circuits for the socket outlets, or provide individual protection for each.

GlossaryAnalog

Electromechanical time switch, programmable moving the position of the captive segments and synchronised with quartz or through the mains frequency

DigitalElectronic time switch, equipped with LCD display and any programming key for the exchange of the programs

Daily Periodic programming of 24 hours

Hourly timePeriodic programming of 1 hour

WeeklyPeriodic programming for 7 days

Annual Periodic programming of 1 year

Running reserveInterval of time during which a time switch can work normally, without supply voltage from the mains network, thanks to an inner backup battery

Minimum switching timeThe shortest time between an ON-OFF cycle

Captive segmentsSmall sliding mechanical segments, generally arranged in a circle on a frontal metal ring of a electro-mechanical time switch; their width represents the minimal time of commutation

Impulse programProgramming function at very low switching time

Cyclic programProgramming function for a periodic commutaion of the load

LuxThis is the measuring unit for the illumination of the international system

DCF77Marks the official German time, transmitted in permanent mode from Mainflingen, in Germany (500° 01 ' N, 09° 00 ' E) with 50 kW of power. The issuer has a reception range of approximately 2500 km and a precision that reaches 1 second every 300,000 years

GPSThe Global Positioning System (GPS) is a positioning system based on satellites for a total global and continuous cover, managed


The expert answers

How much does he know? The expert answersThe reliability of ABB’s experience in its answers to every need arising from the work of professionals in the sector. In this section an ABB expert answers to the most frequently asked questions regarding the use of DIN rail and front panel products, to resolve problems and propose the most suitable solutions for every application.In this number, asides from some of the most frequently asked questions regarding the ABB time and twilight switches, a useful glossary for the terms most commonly used in the field are provided.

Filippo Negroni: Product Manager Modular devices ABB S.p.A. - ABB SACE Division

When is it best to use a digital timer instead of an electromechanical one?

The digital time switches are more precise, have smaller switching time and many more programming functions (impulsive, cyclical, casual, holiday, etc) in regard to the analog time switches. Moreover, the absence of mechanical parts in motion ensures longer running reserve (years, instead of hours). In all the applications, when the operations are

numerous, frequent and diverse (daily, weekly or annually), the time switches of the D or DTS lines allow for better performances with a small difference in price.

Is it possible to connect more than one sensor with twilight models TW1 and TW2/10K?

No, one sensor must be always used for every device.

The permanent OFF position is notavailable for the 1 channel model. How can this be realised?

The permanent OFF is used for maintenance or holiday period operations. In both cases the load can be permanently disconnected by disconnecting the upstream protection.

from the American Department of Defense. The GPS system combines the time supplied from various atomic clocks installed on the edge of satellites, whilst a net of terrestrial stations determines and corrects the errors. Since the time is obtained from various sources at the same time, the clock can automatically compensate the propagation delays and other problems, arriving at an accuracy lower than one second

Astronomic switchTwilight or digital switch able to foresee the exact hour of the dawn and the twilight based on the data and the latitude of positioning, without using an external light sensor

Intervention delay Delay time in the commutation of a twilight switch; it allows unwanted interventions due to a fast variation of the light caused by external factors to be avoided (e.g. the headlights of a car or the shadow of a cloud)

HysteresisInterval between the intensity values of the light which cause the switching ON and OFF avoids a possible oscillation of the commutaion at dawn or sunset

EEPROM memoryElectronic memory device, programmable, non-volatile, used to preserve the hour and date settings even in case of absence of network power supply.

Synchronisation to the network frequency

Synchronisation system of an electromechanical time switch through the mains net frequency usually guaranteed by a contract with an utility

01

02


The expert answers

01 The DTS year digital time switches

02 TW twilight switches and external LS-SP sensor

When does the astronomic timer find application?When the length of the connection between the device and the sensor is more than 100 m, or when the connection is too complicated (for example, panel installed in cellar).

When it is impossible to install the sensor at some distance from the light sources (amusement park, camping grounds, etc.)

When external agents compromise the correct functioning of the sensor as, for example, pollution or vandalism.

Is it possible to connect different types of sensors with the TW1 or TW2/10K models?

No, the only sensor allowed is the LS-SP type.


Technical

Let's construct the safety of extra low voltageFrédéric Camelet: Product Manager Modular devices ABB S.p.A. - ABB SACE Division


Technical

The current is the source of the dangerWhen a person comes into contact

with an active part, an electric current passes through which, according to the intensity, can cause from a l ight sensation to serious shock. Above the following thresholds the current can be life threatening:

− 25mA in alterating current at 50Hz, − 50mA in direct current.

These are indicative values and may vary according to the cases.

The human and his electric resistanceThe electric resistance of the human

body is not comparable to any conductive element of a circuit, although its value is enough to allow the electric current to

pass through it, creating the phenomenon called electrocution. The human body is composed of approximately 70% water which, because of its dissolved salt, makes it a good conductor.

Experimental data indicate that the resistance of the human body is comprised between 1000 Ω and 5000 Ω depending on many factors, we can consider two particular values:

− The electric resistance is approximately 1000 Ω if the person has wet skin, is without shoes and is in a wet area.

− In optimal conditions, with the skin dry and in a dry location, the resistance assumes the value of approximately 5000 Ω.

We try to render the electric circuits safer and safer thanks to the employment of protections for the direct and indirect contacts with remarkable benefits for the users; but we often forget that there is another much simpler and safe solution: power supply in extra low voltage.


The law of Ohm and the safetyBased on the electric resistance of a

person in a certain environment and the threshold of dangerous current, we can use the law of Ohm to calculate the maximum voltage that guarantees safety in case of contact with the active parts of a system.

The results of the calculations on this page are comparable to the indicated maximum values of voltage from standard CEI 64-8, in part 4, regarding the low safety voltage:In alternating current: U < 50 V ACIn direct current: U < 120 V DC not undulated

Using a voltage of 12 V or 24 V is, therefore, a further protection; in fact, with these voltage values the current could only become dangerous if the electric resistance of the person had a value lower than 480 Ω or 960 Ω, in the event the alternating current is lower than 240 Ω or 480 Ω in the case of direct current (respectively for 12V and 24V).

These values of resistance are only reached in very critical cases, such as wet areas (swimming pool), where, as indicated by standard 64-8/7, the maximum voltages are 12 V AC or 30 V DC.

The safety of persons could be assured by supplying a circuit with a voltage of 12 V or 24 V. Generally the low voltage power supplies supply these two voltages in output in alternating or direct current. At first glance the use of a low voltage transformer or power supply seems sufficient but it is not the case.

The danger can come from different parts of the system:

− If a breakdown upstream from the transformer or the supply causes the voltage to increase up to a value of several kV, the isolation between the primary and the secondary could yield, carrying a very high voltage to the secondary with the consequent risks of electrocution. The solution to avoiding this problem is the use of a supply with a special isolation between the primary and the secondary.

− The earth of the system may in certain cases have a potential which is not zero. It could be that a current towards earth at another point of the system increases the potential of the device body, up to a value which is high enough to cause damage to people. The solution to avoid this problem is not to connect the earth of the equipment in low voltage and to separate the active parts of the different circuits.

Different classes of extra low voltageTaking into account of these two facts,

the supply in low voltage is classified in three types according to the CEI 64-8, part 4 standard:

Starting from a FELV circuit, replacing the supply with one equipped with a special isolation, obtaining a PELV circuit. Subsequently we obtain a SELV circuit eliminating the connection between the earth and the equipment. It is not always possible to isolate the mass from the earth.

The 64-8/4 standard indicates that the protection against direct and indirect contacts is assured for SELV voltages lower than 25 V AC and 60 V DC the SELV circuit is therefore the safest solution.

Technical

Calculation of the dangerous voltage

threshold with a resistance of 2000 Ω:

AC case U < 2000 Ω x 25 mA = 50 V AC

DC case U < 2000 Ω x 50 mA = 100 V AC

GlossarySpecial isolation

Double and reinforced isolation between the first and secondary of the power supply or the transformer.

Electrocution Passing of electric current through the human body.

Direct contactContact with an active part of the system, normally under voltage, such as, for example a conductor or a terminal clamp.

Indirect contactContact with the conducting parts that are found accidentally and unforeseeably under voltage, as a result of an isolation problem, for example the enclosure of a washing machine.

Non undulated direct currentDirect current with limited sinusoidal ondulation and a maximum peak value determined by standard CEI 64/8 part 4.

Example of direct contact Example of indirect contact

T T

Uc

PhasePhase


Applicative example with the SELV voltage

− Underwater lighting of a swimming pool − Water jets, fountains − Door bells − Controls on the front of the panels − Public lighting − Pumps for liquids to maintain food fresh − Supply of electronic components in

DC, PLC − In data centre, power supply in direct

current with selectivity in case of breakdown.

Solutions for power supply in low safety voltage:SELV and PELV circuit in alternating current:

− The modular transformers TM and TS are ideal for the power supply for discontinuous use loads, for example for bath pull cord.

− To supply loads for continuous use, for example for the lighting system, both the TS-C and the TM-S modular transformers are ideal.

FELV circuit in alternating current: − In this case a transformer with a special

isolation is not required; therefore the TM-C transformer with the voltages to secondary 12-24 V is ideal.

Technical

Typology: very low voltage...

FELV-functional

(Functional Extra Low Voltage)

PELV-protective

(Protective Extra Low Voltage)

SELV-safety

(Safety Extra-Low Voltage)

Layout

for alternating

currentsId 230 V

PE

50 V

Possible connection

230 V

PE

50 V

Possible connection

Id 230 V

PE

50 V

Description Special insulation is not required.

The loads are not isolated by grounding.

Presence of a special isolation.


Presence of a special isolation.


“Safety” note

SELV, PELV or FELV circuit in alternating current:

− The switching power supplies CP-D are ideal.

− If an elevated number of lines is connected downstream to a power source, a selective protection with EPD24 electronic devices is possible; a failure on a line is monitored thanks to the signalling contact, the line is disconnected and the operational continuity is preserved on the other lines.

All of these solutions accept the supply to the primary in 230 V AC

Products for alternating current

Bell trasformers TM and TS, for discontinuous useWide range of voltages (from 4 to 24 V) and powers (from 8 to 40 VA) and always in SELV voltage.

TS-C safety transformers and TM-S command and safety for continuous useModular from 25 to 63 VA or industrial from 50 to 2500 VA with 12/24 V output, a wide range for the SELV voltage! DIN rail mount up to 160 VA.

Products for direct current

Switching mode power supply CP-DOptimal output accuracy with ±1% of voltage tolerance, six versions with different powers and voltages, always SELV. Say no to current ripple!

Selective protection of systems powered at 24 V DC EPD24 Isolation of the faulty lines for operational continuity and constant monitoring of the system, always in SELV voltage. Installation downstream from CP-D.

ABB solutions for the power supply of circuits in low voltage

46 Day by DIN 2|11

Feeder Alternating current

Direct current

SELV-safetyTM, TSdiscontinuous use

TM-S, TS-Ccontinuous use

TM-Ccontinuous use

Power supply230 V AC

EPD-24selectivity

CP-Dcontinuous use

PELV-protective

FELV-functional

SELV-safety

PELV-protective

FELV-functional

Benefits of the power supply in circuits at SELV safety extra low voltage:

− No protection is necessary either for the direct or the indirect contacts.

− Operational continuity even in cases of direct or indirect contact.

− The circuit, even if not kept under control, is always safe.

− Employment in several applications, from the residential (bathrooms) to industrial (data center, PLC)

Technical

Effect of the passing of alternating current at 50 Hz through the human body:

Current Effect

< 0,5 mA No sensation

From 0,5 mA to 10 mA Weak sensation

From 10 mA to 30 mA Muscular contractions

From 30 mA to 75 mA Breathing difficulties

From 75 mA to 1 mA Irreversable cardiac fibrilation, burning in areas where the current

passes

Electrical resistance of the human body based on the voltage and the external conditions:

25

5

4

3

2

1

50 250 380 Uc (V)

R (k Ω)

dry skindamp skinwet skinsubmerged skin

Effect of the current on people

Diagram with the solutions to supply power to the low voltage circuit

Day by DIN 2|11

Is it always possible to give efficiency a value?

Certainly.


The solution for the measuring and the analysis of electric parameters for all the distribution solutions both in medium and low voltage: the new M2M network analyzers, compact and easy to install, show energies consumed and produced in a very clear way on the high-visibility display expressed both in currency and in kg of CO2. To always have the effective consumption of a system under control, even remotely thanks to various communication protocols of communication. To optimise the performances and not waste energy. To reduce the environmental impact and increase efficiency. http://www.abb.com/abblibrary/DownloadCenter/ - 2CSC400002D0906

48 Day by DIN 2|11

The expert answers

QuizThis product is for...Sometimes we think that the application of some modular products is obvious but we make mistakes or do not know some of the amazing functions of the products that we use every day. We have prepared a Quiz to have some fun: think and ... look out for the tricks!

The solutions will be published in issue 3/11 of Day by DIN.

TRUE FALSE

1. Command switch 2NA 16A E211-16-20 serves to…- control the lights working directly on the power circuit of the lights.- isolate an electric circuit in an industrial environment- isolate an electric circuit in a residential environment

2. The TM15/12 bell transformer serves to...- Supply a reduced power load in a continuous supply- Supply an alarm in the bathroom - Supply the motor control of the autoreclosing switches

3. The OVR T2 surge protective device serves to…- Protect against direct strike on the lightning rod on the roof of the house- Protect against overvoltage caused by electromagnetic fields during atmospheric

surges - Reduce the risk of damage to the system's electric and electronic equipment.

4. The fuse switch disconnector for photovoltaics E 92/32 PVs...- Supplies a luminous LED signal when the fuse intervenes - Allows the disconnection of single strings in a photovoltaic system- May be operated under load up to 1000V

5. A TW2-10K twilight switch can be used for...- switching on the lights when it is dark outside- Switching on the boiler when it is cold outside- Lower the blinds or the curtains when the sun is too strong outside

6. To signal a lack of voltage with a clean contact or a black out the following can be used ...

- A RLV minimum voltage relay- A digital multimeter with two digital outputs- A E 259 installation relay- A E 250 latching relay

Day by DIN 2|11

OVR PV. Excellent performances in maximum safety. Always.


Born from ABB experience, which was the first to launch them on the market which continues to choose them, OVR PV photovoltaic SPDs guarantee absolute protection in the photovoltaic systems. OVR PV SPDs are equipped with a patented thermal disconnector, with DC short circuit interruption performances, specifically designed in order to prevent the risks of overheating and fires in photovoltaic systems up to 1000 V. Thanks to this innovative technology, the OVR PV SPDs are self-protected from the end of life short circuit up to 100A DC without the necessity of back up protection. This performance is guaranteed by the conformity to the UTE C61-740-51 guide.http://www.abb.com/abblibrary/DownloadCenter/ - 2CSC432012B0901

Day by DIN 2|1150 Day by DIN 2|11

The electrical network Technique, history and curiosity

Across 2 – The best impact 6 – Facilitates maintenance 9 – The IEC...french 10 – The electric one is dangerous 11 – The symbol on the SPDs

according to UTE standard 12 – The father of Italian electrification 14 – National electric power agency 15 – General device 17 – They have extractable...cartridges 19 – They can be analogical or digital

Down 1 – The cable conductors which unite

Holland and Norway 3 – It can be an isolator 4 – The first real renewable source 5 – Better comfort and functionality 6 – The photovoltaic Expo 7 – Don't lose sight of the network 8 – Modbus, profibus, TCP/IP... 13 – The photovoltaic insect 16 – Will replace the current technology

of radio controlled clocks 18 – The bar which hosts modular

products

Time to relax

The solutions to the crosswords will be published in number 3/11 of Day by DIN.

The solutions to the crosswords published in number 1/11 of Day by DIN.

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51Day by DIN 2|11

DIN Photo

“An injection of power”Thanks to Multiquadri of Sesto San Giovanni (MI)

for sending this photograph of a panel for hospital use.

DIN Photo

Send photos of an application that you have realised with ABB DIN Rail and front panel products to the email address: [email protected] The most interesting and amusing will be published.

D Line time switches. Always in time with your needs.


The exclusive design, with back-lit LCD display, and the extreme simplicity of use with amultilanguage menu with two lines of text and only four push-buttons, makes the D Lineproducts ideal in the automation of system functions. Thanks to simple and intuitiveprogramming, D Line time switches allow the easy management of very differentcommands, from standard ones to those which are cyclical, from count downs to alarms.Equipped with null load changeover relay, D Line time switches, ensure a longer life for the relay and of the load itself. D Line time switches are also able to manage holidays with the possibility of programming across years. http://www.abb.com/abblibrary/DownloadCenter/ - 2CSC440021B0901

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